Query
 

We are also doing 3 European countries next week.

My wife and I will be using a hotspot (4G LTE) with a European SIM (Orange network) - perfect for not having to get an eSIM for our iPhones 14s.
Hotspot will cover all of Europe (mostly).

Our 2 sons who have T Mobile will be using their free international roaming (3G) and may end up buying an eSIM for their phones if it's too slow.

If you have newer phones, eSIM is the way to go - no more physical SIMs...

Which countries? Which provider do you have now? T Mobile provides, albeit slow, service across most European countries. Many eSim cards or even physical SIM cards cover multiple countries.
Let us know and you may get better answers. Also, there is a thread somewhere about this topic. Will see if I can find it.

Your profile says you live in GB, so assume you have a mobile from a GB network. Suggest you check out this guide from Martin Lewis for best options
https://www.moneysavingexpert.com/mo...roaming-calls/

I have an alternative solution that some see as radical in our current technology-driven culture. Just go off grid!
I recently returned from 2 weeks in the Scotland without any cell service. Oh, the horror! :cool:
Hotels have WiFi that I could use in the evenings for checking messages, maps and plans for the next day. I did have my phone with me, but it remained in airplane mode for the entire 2 weeks.
It is not for everyone, but I enjoy the opportunity to unplug and just enjoy the trip.

I do this all the time. Use WIFI when available but simply stay off of cellular networks.

Hi,

That's what I did when I went to Japan.
Switched off Data roaming to avoid charges. Just used the phone for pictures. Connected to the hilton wifi once back in the hotel ( the shinkansen trains also had wifi)
Did not need to use maps.
Regards

TBS

Or download the google maps that you would need.