Imagine landing in Tokyo after a long flight. The exhilaration of sushi, neon streets, and cherry blossoms is real, but now you’re stuck at the airport looking to figure out how to get online. Should you lease a Pocket WiFi device? Or is the smarter option to go with a Japan Travel eSIM?
If you’re asking yourself the identical question, you’re not alone. Let’s break this down clearly so that you can make the proper selection for your trip.
What is Pocket WiFi?
Pocket WiFi is a small, battery-powered device that creates a private internet connection using local Japanese networks. You can connect your phone, tablet, or computer to it, similar to how you would with your home WiFi.
You can rent one online in advance or at Japanese airports. It’s popular for group travel because it lets several devices connect at the same time.
Pros:
- Works well for families or multiple devices
- Often comes with unlimited data
- Reliable if you stay in one country
Cons:
- You have to carry and charge it
- There’s a security deposit
- If you lose it, you lose the deposit
- You must return it properly after your trip
What is a Travel eSIM?
A Travelling eSIM is a digital SIM you install on your phone. There’s no physical card. Once installed, it connects you to Japanese mobile networks right away.
You can buy one online, scan a QR code, and get connected before you even land in Japan. No device pick-up, no shipping, no return required.
Pros:
- No hardware needed
- No risk of losing equipment
- Instant activation
- Safe and direct connection to networks
Cons:
- Only works on one device (but you can share the hotspot with your family and friends, when you buy unlimited data eSIM)
- Your phone must support eSIM and be unlocked
Is Your Phone Travel eSIM Ready?
Even if your phone supports eSIM, there’s one key thing you need to check: Is it carrier-locked?
A carrier-locked phone is tied to a specific mobile company. This usually happens when you’re still paying for the device in instalments. If your phone is locked, you can’t use any Japan Travel eSIM, and you’ll have to choose Pocket WiFi instead.
How to Check on iPhone:
- Go to Settings > General > About
- Scroll to Carrier Lock or SIM Restrictions
- If it says “No SIM restrictions”, you’re good to go
- If it says anything else, your phone is locked
How to Check on Samsung:
- Dial *#7465625# on your phone
- Look for Network Lock
- If it’s OFF, your phone is unlocked
- If it’s ON, your phone is locked
If Your Phone is Locked, You Have 2 Options:
- Use international roaming with your original provider (expensive)
- Go for Pocket WiFi (more steps, but it works)
The Hassle with Pocket WiFi
Let’s be honest: renting Pocket WiFi isn’t always smooth.
First, you’ll need to pay a security deposit. Then, the device is sent to you, or you pick it up at the airport. You must take care of it during your trip. If it’s lost, you won’t get your deposit back. After your trip, you need to return it on time to get that refund. It works, but it takes effort.
Why Travel eSIM is the Better Option (If Your Phone is Unlocked)
If your phone shows “No SIM restrictions”, the better move is to install a Travelling eSIM Japan.
You can buy one in minutes, scan a QR code, and be online within seconds, no devices, no returns, no deposits. It’s simple and hassle-free.
Plus, we love how you can keep your physical SIM active and still use your Travel eSIM Japan for data. That’s great if you want to receive SMS from your home country.
Pocket WiFi vs Travel eSIM Japan – A Quick Comparison
| Feature | Pocket WiFi | Travel eSIM |
| Setup | Rent + return | QR code installation |
| Portability | Device to carry | No extra items |
| Charging | Needs charging | No charging required |
| Sharing | Multiple devices | One device |
| Deposit | Yes | No deposit |
| Speed | Reliable | Depends on carrier |
| Safety | Risk if lost | No hardware risk |
Travelling to Thailand or Europe Next?
Here’s where Travelling eSIM becomes even more useful.
If you’re flying from Japan to Bangkok or Paris, you don’t need to swap SIMs or rent new devices. Just get a plan that works across regions. For example, a Travel eSIM Thailand works the same way. And if Europe is next, install your Travelling eSIM Europe before takeoff and connect as soon as you land.
You stay online with one provider, no border stress.
Plan Smart With Travel eSim
We’ve used both options on our travels. If you’re a solo traveller or someone who prefers light packing, and your phone is unlocked, then the best choice is a Japan Travel eSIM. It saves time, space, and effort.
But if your device is network-locked, your only solid choice is Pocket WiFi. It works, but you’ll deal with deposits, shipping, and returns.
Always check your phone’s SIM lock status before you decide. It’ll save you trouble later.
If you need our services, contact us or visit our website now!
FAQs
- Can I pick up a Pocket WiFi at Japanese airports?
Yes. Major airports like Narita and Haneda offer pick-up counters.
- How do I know if my phone is eSIM compatible?
iPhones from XS onward and most recent Samsung/Google phones support eSIM.
- Can I use a Travelling eSIM on a locked phone?
No. If your phone is locked to a network, eSIM won’t work.
- What if I lose my Pocket WiFi in Japan?
You’ll lose your security deposit and may have to pay additional fees.
- Can I use the same Travelling eSIM in Japan, Thailand, and Europe?
Yes. Some providers offer multi-country or global plans like Travel eSIM Europe and Thailand.
