Traveling abroad is always an exciting adventure, but it also comes with the challenge of planning and organizing every detail.
One of the most critical aspects in today’s hyper-connected world is ensuring you have a reliable internet connection. Whether you’re staying in touch with loved ones, sharing updates with followers, or navigating new destinations, connectivity is no longer a luxury—it’s a necessity.
For my recent trip to Africa, specifically Kenya, I needed a reliable way to stay connected without the hassle of buying physical SIM cards or dealing with the steep costs of international roaming. That’s when I discovered Firsty, an eSIM app that promises free internet access in Kenya and other destinations worldwide.
The Challenge: Finding Reliable Internet Abroad
As a frequent traveler, I’ve faced my fair share of challenges when it comes to staying connected in foreign countries:
- Hunting for local SIM cards upon arrival, often wasting time.
- Paying exorbitant roaming fees, which can quickly add up.
- Relying on hotel Wi-Fi or spotty public networks that are often slow and insecure.
These traditional options tend to be inconvenient, expensive, or unreliable. That’s why I started exploring alternatives like eSIMs, which offer a more seamless and flexible way to stay connected while traveling.
Discovering the Firsty App
During my search for the perfect solution, I came across Firsty, an app designed for travelers who want to stay connected with minimal hassle. What caught my attention was its promise of free internet access in Kenya, a feature that’s rare among similar apps, and the positive reviews that vouched for its legitimacy.
How Firsty Works
The Firsty app provides an eSIM (embedded SIM) that you can install directly on your smartphone without the need for a physical SIM card. Here’s why I found it convenient:
- Easy Setup: Simply download the app, follow the instructions to activate the eSIM, and you’re ready to connect.
- No Physical SIM Required: No need to visit local shops or handle tiny SIM cards.
- Free Internet: Firsty offers a basic free internet plan by watching ads, ideal for light browsing, messaging, and map usage. For heavier usage, premium data packages are available at affordable rates.
- Global Coverage: Beyond Kenya, the app supports connectivity in various countries, making it an excellent choice for multi-destination trips.
My Experience Using Firsty in Kenya
While Firsty did deliver on some of its promises, my experience was a mix of pros and cons. Here’s what I encountered during my trip:
The Free Plan
For the first two days, I tried the free option, which required watching video ads in exchange for a few minutes of internet at basic speeds. This worked well for light tasks like messaging and checking emails, but it wasn’t suitable for more demanding activities like uploading photos.
The Paid Plan
After two days, I decided to upgrade to the Firsty Comfort+ package (recommended by the app for Kenya, as the higher-speed First Class package isn’t going to make a difference in the country), which cost €1.60 per day. The premium data offered faster speeds, making it easy to use social media and communicate with Greece.
Connectivity Issues
While the app generally provided a stable connection wherever there was a local mobile network, I did encounter several instances where it refused to connect. The app’s support system was a major drawback—its automated responses were unhelpful in resolving issues and a day or two went buy without using the internet. However, on the plus side, the app refunded me for the days I couldn’t connect, which was a relief.
Final Thoughts
If you’re planning a trip abroad and need a cost-effective way to stay connected, Firsty can be a useful option. However, it’s not as reliable as purchasing a local SIM card. For travellers who don’t need constant connectivity and are looking for an affordable solution, Firsty might be worth considering.
You can download Firsty for both Android and iOS here.
PS: If you’ve used Firsty or have any other recommendations for staying connected while traveling, share your suggestions in the comments below!
