Yes, I agree with your points, thanks. The problem is my "carrier" is tracfone. While I do have an unlocked phone, tracfone doesn't offer any options for use outside the US. That is what made me look at getting a rental phone or pocket wifi. But, I can't make wifi calls in Japan, so I am back to a sim. Can't use an esim. I am thinking a Mobal sim might be the way to go but I'm not certain about that.
Good thing I have a year to plan!
Thanks.