eSIM or local SIM card? After three countries I realized where you lose money

During a trip between Albania, Montenegro and Bosnia I bought a regional eSIM that promised unique coverage. In practice tethering was limited, the network changed often and I had no local number to contact some accommodation. Convenience remains great, but I would like to choose based on real use: maps, messages, some calls and hotspots for the laptop. What specifications checked before purchase and when you go to a physical SIM card? I am interested in a comparison based on recent experiences: indicated travel p…