The Balkans are one of the most beautiful and diverse regions in Europe – perfect for road trips, mountain treks, or spontaneous summer getaways. From Croatia and Albania to Montenegro and Serbia, each country offers unique experiences. But before setting off, it's crucial to plan your trip properly – not just what to pack, but also how to stay connected. Here's your guide on how to prepare, plus why eSIM from esim5.com is the best internet option for Balkan travel.
1. What to Pack and Remember Before Traveling to the Balkans
- Documents – Most Balkan countries require a passport (some EU countries accept ID cards for EU citizens).
- Currencies – You’ll deal with multiple currencies: euro (Montenegro, Kosovo), Albanian lek, Serbian dinar, Romanian leu. Bring cash or a multi-currency travel card.
- Travel insurance – A must-have! Make sure it covers medical expenses and theft.
- Offline maps – Download Google Maps or maps.cz for offline navigation – useful in remote mountain areas.
2. How to Get Internet in the Balkans
If you're traveling across several countries, you'll need reliable internet access. Here are your options:
✅ Top Choice: eSIM from esim5.com
If your phone supports eSIM, go with esim5.com – it’s the most convenient and reliable option for travelers in the Balkans.
- Activate online in minutes – no need for physical SIM cards.
- Works in multiple Balkan countries – Albania, Croatia, Serbia, Montenegro, Bulgaria, North Macedonia, and more.
- Automatically connects to the strongest local network.
- Flexible data packages – no long-term contracts.
- Avoids roaming charges and surprise fees.
🔗 Check plans at: esim5.com
🔹 Other Internet Options in the Balkans
Local SIM Card
- Cheap and effective, but works only in the country of purchase.
- Requires registration with ID/passport.
- Ideal for long stays in a single country.
Roaming from Your Home Operator
- Free roaming within the EU (e.g., Croatia, Slovenia, Greece, Bulgaria).
- High roaming costs outside the EU (e.g., Albania, Serbia, Montenegro).
- Often not enough for video calls, streaming, or remote work.
Wi-Fi in Hotels and Cafes
- Available in most accommodations and tourist spots.
- In remote regions, like the Accursed Mountains, coverage may be poor or unstable.
3. How to Avoid Roaming Pitfalls
- Near border zones, your phone may connect to a foreign network, incurring unexpected charges.
- Disable mobile data in such areas or use eSIM only.
- Double-check that your operator includes destinations like Kosovo, which is often excluded from EU roaming.
Summary – How to Prepare for Your Balkan Adventure
✔ Bring the right documents, insurance, and cash
✔ Download offline maps
✔ Ensure internet access with eSIM from esim5.com
✔ Consider a local SIM only if staying in one country
✔ Be careful with roaming outside the EU
Best Internet in the Balkans? Go with esim5.com
No contracts, no roaming traps, no hassle.
With eSIM from esim5.com, you get reliable internet access across the Balkans – from the beaches of Croatia to the mountains of Albania.
