Whether we like it or not, phones and the internet have become essential. When travelling, it's hard to imagine going anywhere without a phone or mobile data. Phones aren't just for making calls but they help us find things to do, places to eat, order rides and navigate with maps. However, high roaming fees and the hassle of buying a local SIM card can be frustrating for travellers.
This is where travel eSIMs come in. These digital SIM cards provide instant connectivity without the need for a physical SIM swap. And what better place to introduce travellers to eSIM technology than the very hub of international travel: the airport! By utilising key airport touchpoints, airports can boost traveller engagement and provide seamless connectivity from the moment passengers arrive; or even before they depart.
How can airports leverage various touchpoints to promote travel eSIMs?
From the second travellers step into the terminal to the moment they call a cab, many opportunities are presented to educate, engage and convert them into eSIM users.
One of the first things passengers may do at an airport is to look for free Wi-Fi, which makes this an important moment to introduce travel eSIMs as an alternative. While airport Wi-Fi may seem like a convenient option, most times, it requires users to provide personal information or accept terms that allow data tracking and targeted advertising. On the contrary, an eSIM offers a private, safe connection without the risk of personal data being collected or sold.
Instead of going through a tedious sign-in process for slow and often restricted Wi-Fi, passengers could be shown an instant prompt on their phones offering an easy, one-tap travel eSIM activation for immediate high-speed connectivity.
Beyond Wi-Fi, airports can enrich the traveller journey by using additional early-stage touchpoints such as:
- Airport websites and mobile apps, offering pre-travel eSIM purchase options
- Parking booking journeys, where a simple “prepare your data before you fly” message fits naturally
- Confirmation emails for parking, lounges and fast-track security that recommend a travel-ready eSIM
- Airport shuttle buses displaying QR codes for quick activation
- Digital screens at drop-off zones prompting travellers to get connected before entering the terminal
Moreover, as travellers move through the terminal, airports can strategically place digital screens, banners and information booths to highlight the benefits of travel eSIMs, showing how they provide instant data without hidden fees.
Airports can make travel eSIMs more accessible by integrating them into self-service kiosks, allowing travellers to activate their connection while checking in or handling baggage. Dedicated kiosks specifically for eSIM services, placed before boarding, near baggage claim, or at terminal exits, can give passengers an easy way to get online as soon as they land. A quick QR code scan is all it takes to set up an eSIM, saving travellers the trouble of finding a local SIM card vendor or dealing with slow public Wi-Fi. Airports like Changi in Singapore and Dubai International are already using these setups, showing how simple changes can make a big difference in keeping travellers connected and improving customer experience.
You may also be interested in our webinar: Unlocking a new ancillary revenue stream - the power of travel eSIMs
Which airport areas or zones are most effective for travel eSIM promotions?
Airports are busy and often crowded and some areas hold more potential for travel eSIM promotions than others. The most effective zones include:
Arrival halls and immigration areas are where the need for connectivity is greatest. Travellers are likely to access maps, confirm accommodations and inform family or friends of their safe arrival. This is a great zone to place travel eSIM advertisements and activation kiosks for immediate exposure.
To expand reach even further, airports can leverage:
- Walkway screens and digital tunnels leading to immigration
- Baggage reclaim areas, where travellers have long dwell times
- Luggage trolleys, which provide constant visibility for simple travel eSIM messaging
Duty-free & retail shops: While on the lookout for last-minute shopping ideas or gifts, travellers are often in a spending mindset. Partnering with retail shops to advertise, educate, and sell travel eSIMs can be convenient for airports.
Additional retail touchpoints could include tech shops, convenience stores and travel accessory shops, offering bundled deals such as “travel adapter + travel eSIM” or “lounge access + eSIM credit.”
Transportation hubs: Ride-sharing pickup points and taxi stands are also great locations for travel eSIM promotions. Digital billboards and interactive kiosks can encourage travellers to activate an eSIM before they leave the airport.
Other post-arrival touchpoints include train stations, bus terminals, hotel shuttle pickup areas and even rental car counters; all locations where travellers rely heavily on mobile connectivity.
How can eSIMs enhance the overall travel experience and reduce roaming charges?
One of the biggest frustrations for international travellers is dealing with costly roaming fees and the hassle of switching to local SIM cards in a foreign country. The solution? Travel eSIMs. Here's why:
- Activated instantly: With a quick scan of a QR code, travellers can get connected in seconds without searching for a local SIM in a physical store or waiting in line.
- Straightforward pricing: Unlike traditional physical SIM cards, which often have hidden roaming fees, travel eSIMs offer prepaid plans with full transparency. This means no unexpected charges, just straightforward pricing.
- Flexibility & control: Travellers can choose a travel eSIM plan that best suits their data needs and budget, whether for a short layover or an extended trip.
Recommended reading: The benefits of eSIM for the travel industry
How can digital signage and mobile apps be utilised as touchpoints for travel eSIM promotion?
Digital signage, such as LED screens, interactive displays and transit screens, is great for showcasing or promoting travel eSIM benefits, especially if placed in high-traffic areas.
Airports can expand their digital strategy by adding travel eSIM prompts to:
- Gate screens and waiting areas
- Security checkpoint displays
- Elevator and escalator screens
- Charging stations, prompting “charging your phone? Charge your connectivity too.”
Many airports also have their own mobile apps designed to assist passengers with navigation, flight updates and airport services. These apps can promote travel eSIM buying options, push notifications and real-time offers, making it even easier for travellers to stay connected.
What partnerships and collaborations can enhance travel eSIM adoption in airports?
Beyond promotion and education, driving travel eSIM adoption in airports requires strategic collaborations. Some of the most effective partnerships to consider include:
- Telecom providers: Working with both local and global carriers to offer special travel eSIM packages for travellers can increase adoption rates.
- Airlines: Travel eSIM promotions can be embedded into airline mobile apps, boarding passes, and in-flight Wi-Fi portals, ensuring maximum exposure.
- Retailers & duty-free stores: Selling eSIM services alongside travel accessories can create a seamless experience for travellers.
- Ride-hailing & transport services: Partnering with Uber, Lyft, or local cab and transport services to promote travel eSIMs within their apps can secure connectivity as travellers move beyond the airport.
Airports can also collaborate with hotel groups, tourism boards and ticketing apps to extend the value of travel eSIMs well into the traveller’s journey.
What challenges might arise when promoting travel eSIMs in airport environments and how can they be addressed?
The advantages are clear and straightforward for some, but like any new technology, others are either unaware of it or resistant to change, which slows adoption. Some challenges to keep in mind are:
- Lack of awareness: Many travellers still don’t fully understand what a travel eSIM is or how it works. For this reason, airports should invest in educational campaigns using digital signage, informative videos or newsletters to guide travellers.
- Concerns about network reliability: Some travellers may worry that a travel eSIM won’t offer the same coverage as their regular SIM. To provide assurance, consider highlighting partnerships with reputable telecom providers and emphasising strong network coverage.
- Resistance to change: People tend to stick to what they know, and switching to an eSIM may feel unfamiliar. The best way to convince someone to try something new is by offering incentives, such as discounted first-time purchases or loyalty rewards.f
Can we help?
The travel sector is just getting started with travel eSIMs. Some airports are already including this technology in their offering with the intention of making the customer experience better for travellers. As hubs of international travel, airports serve as the first and last stop in a traveller’s journey, making them an ideal place to introduce solutions that make travel easier. By turning key customer touchpoints into opportunities for education and adoption, airports can do more than just promote a product and better influence how travellers stay connected.
At Alphacomm, we’re committed to helping you turn potential pitfalls into opportunities for success, making the sale of your digital goods simple and safe. With our cutting-edge solutions, you can focus on what truly matters: delivering a consistent shopping experience. Do you want to know more about our travel eSIM solution? Connect with our team today!
