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Home » Gear » Travel Sim's » best international sim cards

9 BEST International SIM Cards for Travel (Buyer’s Guide • 2024)

SIM cards are a royal pain in the butt when travelling. Every time you land somewhere new, you have to perform the same song and dance of going out of your way to get a new sim pretty much as soon as possible.

Usually what happens is that you land in the airport and then you either get ripped off buying a SIM card there or navigate to town without any connectivity. Once you’re in town, you have to navigate a foreign city sifting through local SIM providers, various plans, and also probably getting lost along the way. It’s not the ideal way to start a vacation and I cannot even count the hours I’ve lost shopping for sims in new countries.

That’s why buying one of the best international SIM cards is THE way to go.

An International SIM card is one which will work all over the world meaning that you never have to change it again – no more messing around at the O2 Kiosk in strange airports!

Now, to set the record straight, while there are cheaper travel SIM cards in existence, they still aren’t exactly cheap. Nine times out of ten, a local SIM card is always going to be the cheaper option for budget backpackers.

Maybe you’re a digital nomad who always needs to be connected, maybe you’re a high-flying businessperson with fancy business attire who makes busy business calls while on holiday or maybe (like me) you are just sick of having to change sims.

Either way, this is the list of the best international SIM cards on the market! I’ve done all the leg-work and the research to deliver an international SIM cards review in full. So let’s get ourselves connected.

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Compare The Best International SIM Cards

What is an international sim card, the best sim cards for international travellers, international data sim cards for digital nomads, social media addicts, and tinder aficionados, a quick review of each sim card, frequently asked questions about travel sim cards, should you buy an international sim card.

This isn’t the whole roundup but it is my personal pick of the best international SIM cards worth looking into, each one serving a different niche.

• > e-Sim and Traditional Sims available
• > Wide and reliable coverage
• > Low SIM-purchasing fees

• > Virtual sim – no plastic needed!
• > Excellent range of packages
• > Download before you leave home

• > Excellent value – starts at $1
• > Range of packages available
• > Great coverage

KeepGo Lifetime World SIM Card

• > Reliable connection
• > Prone to cutting rates
• > Coverage could be better

• > Simple rates – no bundle packs
• > Huge coverage
• > Requires a PRO account for maximum coverage

Orange Holiday Europe Prepaid SIM Card

• > Extremely reliable in Europe
• > Easily sufficient for a two-week holiday
• > Excludes a number of countries in Europe

International SIMs, roaming SIMs, travel SIM Cards whatever: a rose by any name can still order you a pizza when you don’t want to leave the guesthouse after all right? That’s what an international SIM card is, a SIM card that will have you hooked up from “anywhere” .

Why did you put ‘anywhere’ in quotes?

Because it’s a highly variable anywhere. “Anywhere” really means from the countries that the international SIM covers. That said, some of these travel SIM providers cover over 200 countries.

That also said, there are only 195 countries in the world so I’m not sure how they mathed those numbers out. Still unsure, have a look at our guide to local vs international SIM cards .

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So, how does an international SIM card work?

Without getting too technical, an international SIM card isn’t programmed to one specific network. It’s programmed to operate on a number of networks in a number of different geographical locations – specifically, networks using the GSM (Global Systems of Management Communications) framework.

That’s why to use your cell phone internationally with a travel SIM card it needs to be:

• GSM-compatible (many phones are).
• Unlocked, i.e. not tied to a provider.

Do be sure about that unlocked phone bit before you go ahead and buy a new one.

Basically, global SIM cards will plug into a local network from the country you’re travelling to… Consensually, of course.

That’s why coverage so strongly varies among the many international SIMs. Some SIM cards are for worldwide use and programmed accordingly. Some SIM cards are for international roaming in certain regions like Asia, the USA, or Europe (usually, omitting a third of Europe in their coverage).

For example, you’ll need a different sim card for Canada and the USA in most cases, but in Europe you’ll more than likely be able to use the same one.

Who benefits from buying an international SIM card?

Well, like I said, not so much the longterm backpacker types . A local SIM card is pretty much always cheaper and much more practical (and reliable) for long stays in any country. Unfortunately, actual cheap international sim cards don’t exist yet.

Country-hoppers , on the other hand, may want to consider buying some sort of prepaid international SIM card. Buying local sim cards in Europe for only 1-2 weeks of use eight times in a trip is nobody’s idea of fun, especially if you care about data usage and double especially if you care about plastic ending up in the ocean.

People living the digital nomad lifestyle may also benefit from a travel SIM. Though a local SIM is much more equipped for longterm stays in a country, sometimes the options or service is crap and sometimes you’ll spend long stretches in transit which is a perfect time to crunch out a few hours. Besides, there is no rule that says you can’t have two SIMs. A prepaid international sim card might be the best option here (more about that later).

Lastly, business people or people that take frequent short trips will benefit from a SIM card for international travel. I might be stereotyping here but I kinda feel that these folk are less concerned with the costs associated. Plus, most SIM cards for overseas use tend to have 1-year validity for purchased credit, so it’s totally viable to park your SIM after a trip and then pop it back in for the next one.

Beginning the list are the top international SIM cards for travelling that do everything a SIM card should do: call, texts, and mobile data . These SIMs have some pretty major coverage globally and for most travellers in the world, are more than sufficient.

Of course, there has to be a best-of-the-best in this international sim card comparison. So first up–the best travel SIM card!

#1 The Best International Physical SIM Card – OneSim

Ok, so what makes OneSim the best travel SIM card? It’s a fine difference between the first few candidates but OneSim edges out on top for a combination of versatility, pricing, and reliability.

First up, they offer multiple different SIM cards each catering to different travelling needs INCLUDING (but not limited to) 2 awesome e-Sim options :

• OneSimCard e-Sim World (From $9.95) – Coverage of 150 countries with free incoming calls on EU numbers.
• OneSimCard e-Sim Asiana (From $9.95) – Specially designed for Asia and Oceania. Data packages available.

If your phone is not yet e-Sim ready, then worry not because OneSim also offer some excellent deals on plastic sims:

• OneSimCard Universal ($29.95) – Coverage of over 200 countries but with a more limited data service (50+) countries.
• OneSimCard Expedition ($34.95) – Offers much the same coverage as the OneSim Universal travel SIM but with way more data coverage. It’s the choice for the explorers.

How OneSim Works

You’ll get a $10 bonus credit with any OneSIM roaming SIM card purchase, but once that’s gone, you’ll have to continue buying data plans. Rates vary wildly by both the choice of travel SIM card you are using and the country you’re in so you’ll need to check these rates to see if they suit you.

You’ll receive two numbers: a European (Estonian) number and a choice of one from the USA, UK, Australia, or Canada. Incoming calls on the primary European number is free in a large coverage of countries or starting from $0.25/min otherwise. Outgoing calls also start from $0.25/min (dependent on locations) and receiving texts are free.

Casual data rates start at rather hefty $0.20/MB . However, what makes this such a good prepaid international SIM card is that there is a lot of choices to lower your costs. You can buy data bundles ranging from one/two weeks to a month divided by zone or region. There are also discount plans and bundles available for call rates. This makes the OneSIM one of the best international SIM cards for data as well.

So, is it worth it?

Although not strictly the cheapest international SIM card on the market, the wealth of choices means that you can tailor your SIM card to your world travel needs and minimize costs. The added bonus is that OneSim has been kicking around for a while so they know the market well.

They provide a reliable service, as well as a bunch of neat extras, to keep their clients happy chappies. If you’re looking for the best sim card for international travel, OneSIM is definitely one you should consider getting.

#2 Best Global eSim Provider – GigSky

If you have a modern phone (iPhone 11 , Samsung Galaxy S21, etc or above) it will probably be eSim compatible. This means that you don’t actually need a plastic SIM card but can simply download an eSim via GigSky the same way you would download an app.

When I first heard of eSim about one year ago, it was something of a niche product simply because most travellers were using phones and devices that were not eSim compatible. However that is changing fast and by 2024, an estimated 80% of travellers will use eSim. The eSim marketplace is a very exciting one and the providers are contently innovating to come up with some new, better, cheaper packages – according to our research, GigSk are currently leading the pack.

How GigSky Works

I had the pleasure of reviewing Gigsky and It’s really very simple. You either download the GigSky App (which we do recommend) or else go to their website and check out their “Global Plans”. You buy the package you want (in the 5GB World Plan) and download it not your phone BEFORE you fly, using either a link or a QR code.

The joy of eSim is that you can install it before you leave and then activate as soon as the plane touches down meaning you are rocking and rolling all over the world before you even get your luggage.

GigSky offer 1 Global Package only – 5GB over 30 days for $69.99. I can be topped up (if you somehow burn through all 5GB) but it cannot be extended past the 30 days.

So, Is It Worth It?

Well, $69.99 is a lot for a 30 day package but International Sim Packages do not come cheap. GigSky also have a wide range of global carrier partners meaning their offer better connectively than most platers in this space.

Overall though, in terms of sheer convenience yes GigSky is worth it – you you can browse for and install an eSim from the comfort your device and get it ready to use before you even leave home which saves a whole lotta hassle. However, the package does NOT include an actual phone number which is a bit of a bummer.

#3 Great Global eSim Package – Sim Local

Sim Local is recognized as a global leader in the travel SIM card and eSIM retail market. The company specializes in serving global travellers, enabling them to stay connected while avoiding expensive roaming charges. During my review of Sim Local , I was impressed to see they provide local SIM cards and eSIM profiles directly to customers through a variety of channels, including retail stores, kiosks, vending machines, a mobile app, and an eShop.

Their services are aimed at offering significant savings on data, calls, and texts compared to traditional roaming options, and they also offer a range of mobile handsets and accessories tailored to the needs of travellers.

How Sim Local Works

First up, note that Sim Local are an eSim-only provider so if you’re phone is not eSim ready…go elsewhere. Providing it is, you simply hop over to their site or get the app and check out their global packages. At the time of writing the site offers their own brand one for just $10 for 3 days, or an Orange one that costs $28.00 for 14 days.

I’ll be frank, eSims are still often more expensive than buying physical sims but they are a lot easier to install and to operate and best of all, you can install them before you even leave home. In my view, $28.00 for 10GB of data over 14 days is good value for an international sim but bear in mind it don’t come with a local numero.

#4 A Worldwide SIM Card – WorldSIM

WorldSIM gets a mention on this list because it’s another puller in the market with some comparatively awesome rates. It’s also got some really weirdly expensive outlying rates. As such, we certainly don’t feel like it’s a fit for the best SIM card for international roaming.

How WorldSim Works

The WorldSIM international SIM card has no purchasing fee- woo! Now, before you get too excited, it does require a top-up of credit at purchase.

That means that you’re paying a minimum of $33.75 plus shipping . For $67.50 of credit, shipping is free.

The casual rates for outgoing calls, texts, and data usage are the cheapest I’ve found so far with data coverage extending to countries missed out on by OneSim. Except, a lot of the rates in various countries for incoming calls are shockingly high.

As for the data bundles? No idea. Their website isn’t working for that page and is just stuck in an infinitely loading loop.

Our gut says no. But, you do you. You shouldn’t base your decisions on buying an international SIM card on the gut instincts of a stranger online. All the same though, our gut says no.

Between the mildly bait-and-switch-y “$0” SIM purchasing fee, the janky and unwieldy website, and the weird incoming call rates that could potentially trap an unwitting consumer, WorldSIM in review doesn’t feel like an international SIM card worth purchasing, especially in comparison to other choices on the market.

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These are the best international  data SIM cards for those of us that scoot by without the extras.

#1 Best Data Only eSIM Card for International Travel – Jetpac

Jetpac is a Singapore based eSIM company who offer packages, designed primarily for travellers and Digital Nomads. They offer various data plans that can be used across many countries, and the service includes features like free airport lounge access if your flight is delayed.

Jetpac eSIMs are compatible with a range of devices, including many models from Apple, Samsung, and Google. To activate a Jetpac eSIM, users need to sign up on the Jetpac website or app, choose a plan that fits their travel needs, and then scan a QR code to install the eSIM on their device.

We love Jetpac for its ease of setup and reliable connectivity. JetPac makes it a handy tool for international travel, ensuring continuous access to mobile data across multiple destinations. While they don’t offer local numbers, we love that most of their packs last for 30 days by default so you can just concentrate on how much data you need.

Wanna know more: Check out our detailed Jetpac eSim card review here.

How it Works

The Jetpac worldwide eSIM card comes in a variety of different data packages. Data can be topped up with a number of plans ranging from 100 MB up to a slammin’ 25 GB ! The prices of data top-ups are:

• 1 GB – $1
• 3 GB – $10
• 5 GB – $25
• 10 GB – $30
• 25 GB – $38

Absolutely. I mean, come on it starts at one-freaking-dollar and works all over the world. All in all we’d consider this one of the best pre paid international data only sim cards on the market.

#2 A Simple Data SIM Card for Worldwide Travel – Surfroam

Yay! No prepaid data packages, no contractual mumbo-jumbo, no running out of data right when you settle in for a long Netflix and poop session: Surfroam keeps it Pura Vida!

It’s data-only with coverage of 200+ countries – even Afghanistan and Yemen are covered! So, what’s the go?

Essentially, you pay €45 for the physical SIM card (which includes €25 credit) and then top-up as you go with pack options starting at €25 . You’re charged a pay-as-you-go rate per megabyte starting as low as €0.01/MB . So that’s way cheaper than the KeepGo data roaming sim card, right? Not quite…

Rates vary substantially by country so while this going to be a cheaper option across, say, Europe, it may not necessarily pan out that way in other places. That said, prices are still pretty cheap for most places and tend to beat out KeepGo.

As a final note, there is an eSIM (€30) available with the same data rates.

Ok, so ‘simple’ might be stretching it upon reflection, however, once you’re away, its streams ablaze! If you’re jet-setting and changing countries a lot, you will need to stay keyed in as to the rates .

Otherwise, the coverage significantly beats out KeepGo, and in many cases, Surfroam will end up being the cheapest international data SIM card you can purchase. It’s the simplest choice for staying connected pretty much anywhere in the world.

#3 The Best International SIM Card for Europe – Orange Holiday Europe

Are you just doing a little banger holiday in Europe and need a physical SIM card for your travels? Orange has got you covered. Specifically:

• Orange Holiday Europe SIM Card
• Orange Holiday Zen SIM Card

The Orange Holiday Zen is for light usage or a short trip. It’s a straight prepaid SIM card for travellers in Europe and it couldn’t be simpler.

For $27.29 , you get 8 GB of data, 30 minutes of calls worldwide, 200 texts, all lasting for 14 days before it expires. The Holiday Zen covers 30 countries in Europe including all the heavy-hitters, if you need a sim in Italy , Greece or Spain it’s perfect but it certainly doesn’t cover all of Europe (my boy Serbia – forever underrepresented). Still, this makes it one of the best European SIM Cards for travellers.

The Orange Holiday Europe takes all of that and just upgrades it: 20 GB in data, 120 minutes, and 1000 texts for $44 . The same coverage of countries applies and it’s a 14-day expiry again.

Orange also partners with a bunch of networks around the world- even offering an Israeli sim card called partner. If you take a look around their website, you can find more far-flung networks than you expected!

Both cards are able to be topped up online for more credit.

Yeah, so I wouldn’t call ‘30 countries in Europe’ an internationally roaming SIM card, but it is a super simple choice for anyone just travelling to Europe for a holiday. It’ll keep you safe in an emergency thanks to that fact that it’s not a data only service. Plus: you’ll have a SIM ready from the moment you land!

Orange is a pretty major sim provider in France so you’ll have a consistent connection. There’s no constant checking of rates calculators either. It’s just a perfectly simple prepaid SIM card for any travellers heading to Europe.

Y’all want more? Another option to look at is getting an Airalo eSim instead.

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Some commonly asked questions about the world’s best travel SIM cards…

How do I activate my international SIM card?

Each international SIM comes with detailed instructions on how to set up and load your SIM. It’s always a good idea to get things set up before you leave home to avoid any mishaps.

What does international SIM mean?

An international SIM is a type of SIM card that will allow you to use your phone internationally by connecting to global carriers. Some of these SIMs will allow you to make calls as you normally would, while others only offer data plans.

What is the best SIM card for international travel?

Some of the best SIMs for international travel include OneSim , Nomad , KeepGo , and TravelSim .

Do international SIM cards expire?

Most of the SIMs on this list require you to recharge at least once a year, but in doing so all your data will remain usable.

That depends on how you travel. If you’re adept at buying prepaid SIM cards locally when you hit the ground, then I wouldn’t worry.

However, for the people that an international SIM card suits the travelling style and needs of, then yes, definitely. I think if you’re that person, then you probably already know that you’re that person.

People looking for the all-round ol’ reliable, OneSim is the go-to choice of travel SIM cards. For those who want the best data SIM card they can use overseas, that choice is KeepGo .

Skip the lines and skip the painful errand days in a foreign city. Buy one of the best international SIM cards you can and have yourself connected before you even touchdown on the landing.

Want another kind of sim card? Check out the revolutionary new Nomad e-sim , an app-based sim card covering over 100 countries that can be organised before you leave home! If that’s not enough, there’s another new service from HolaFly which offers similar coverage and deals so check them both out and see which fits your needs best.

Ziggy Samuels

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I think eSIMS are the future gamechanger here. You can download a digital SIM to your phone which has eSIM support.

I use a second phone to provide data to my main phone via bluetooth internet sharing. Wifi sharing can be used as well but bluetooth uses less power. On my main phone I leave the mobile data turned off and use the paired second phone for data. This allows me to use my main phone for Whatsapp, iMessage, email, etc.

10/10 review – exactly the type of info I was after. Plus, I liked your no BS style of writing. Thanks.

Thanks! Very useful! My main concern is regarding how long do the sim cards remain active if you are not buying credit regularly. I usually travel at least once or twice to congresses per year, but I wonder if some of these cards would stop working after a long time inactive. Is that information available for the cards discussed here? Cheers!

Heya, absolutely you can find that info! It’ll be in the terms and conditions/fine print for individual cards/plans. I’d like to say most last at least a year (which always seemed standard for SIM cards in general), but defs check that before you go buying any SIMs. Good question though!

You guys should definitely include DENT, a block chain based international E-Sim card, that offers flexibel data exchange. You can sell your unused data and always find the cheapest offer worldwide and cross boarder operational. Can’t be missed from this list!

Dude – hectic! I’m defs not about to go and update this article, but I looked and DENT seems pretty legit and totally worth the investigation. Anyone reading these comments, you’d be doing yourself a disservice by not scoping them out at least! 😀

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Travel Europe on a Budget

The Savvy Backpacker

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The best international sim cards for travel | an in-depth data plan buyer’s guide for traveling abroad.

How to find the best international SIM Card and eSIM data plan.

phones and technology

Ensuring your phone has high-speed data when you travel internationally is a confusing and frustrating process for many travelers—in fact, it’s one of the most-asked questions I get from readers. That’s why I wanted to help remove the mystery around international data plans by creating this guide to the best international SIM cards.

Traveling to Europe? Check The Savvy Backpacker’s Guide To Smartphones, SIM Cards, and Data Plans in Europe , my guide to How To Buy A SIM Card For Europe , and my guide to the best eSIM Data Plans For Europe .

International SIM Cards vs Single-Country/Local SIM Cards vs Global SIM Cards

Choosing the best international SIM card can be confusing because there are a ton of options and each has its own positives and negatives. So let’s start by defining the overall SIM card categories:

• International SIM cards can often be purchased before your trip so they can be mailed to you before departure or you can download the eSIM if your phone is compatible.
• International SIM Cards will be slightly more expensive than local SIM cards but they’re more convenient—especially if you’re using an eSIM.
• Buying a Local SIM is often the most affordable option but you have the added hassle of having to hunt down a SIM Card after you arrive, dealing with language barriers, and you may need to register the SIM before activation (which may require you to submit your passport and provide a local address)
• NOTE: By EU law, any SIM card bought in the EU will work in any other EU country with no extra charges.
• Global SIM cards are notoriously bad . They’re often run by faceless companies with no customer support and they seem to always have connection issues—just do a search on Amazon and you’ll see a ton of negative feedback. You also typically pay way more and get way less data.
• However, I am a fan of the Orange Holiday World SIM card since it’s owned by Orange—which is one of the largest mobile providers in the world but data is limited in some countries.

E-SIM Data Plans vs (Physical) SIM Card Data Plans

Up until a few years ago, you had to physically remove the plastic SIM card from your phone and install a new SIM card if you wanted to connect to a new mobile provider.

However, many modern phones now let you download a digital eSIM to your phone so you no longer have to deal with physically removing any SIM cards. eSIMs are way more convenient because you don’t have to track down a SIM card and you can often install multiple eSIM cards on your phone (in addition to your physical SIM) so you can have multiple plans on a single phone.

Not all data providers currently offer eSIM data plans so you might have limited plan options—but I imagine this will become the standard over the next few years.

What To Look For In An International SIM Card

Are you still confused about international SIM cards? Don’t worry.

Here are some common things to keep in mind when researching and evaluating all the various international data plan options.

Some SIM Card Plans Are Data Only

Every SIM data plan has different terms when it comes to calls and texts. Many are data only—i.e. no calls or texts. Or some come with local calls and texts but don’t let you make international calls or texts. And others let you make worldwide texts and calls.

Data-only plans tend to be the cheapest while plans that offer worldwide calls/texts are the most expensive.

NOTE: Apple iMessage is sent via data so they’ll work with data-only plans (assuming you’re sending an iMessages to other Apple users). You can also use apps like WhatsApp via data so data-only is typically sufficient.

Not All SIM Data Plans Allow Data Tethering

Data-tethering (i.e. using your phone as a hotspot for other devices like your computer, etc.) isn’t allowed on all data plans so keep that in mind when choosing a data plan.

Global SIM Cards Offer Different Data Limits For Different Countries

Global SIM cards often group countries into different “zones” and each zone will have different data allowances.

For example, “zone one” countries might give you 10GB of data, but “zone two” counties could only give you 5GB of data, and then “zone three” countries might only give you 500MB of data. Check the plan details before buying.

Check The International SIM Card Plan’s Validity Period

Most international SIM cards are valid anywhere from seven to 30 days once you activate your card.

This is something you’ll obviously want to pay attention to since you don’t want your plan to expire before your trip ends. Some plans will let you “top-up” your plan so you can add extra time without having to buy another SIM card, but you’re often only allowed one or two “top-ups” before needing to buy another plan.

Your Phone Must Be Unlocked

Some phones are “carrier locked”—i.e. they’re digitally programmed to only work on your mobile provider’s network. This means it won’t work if you install another network’s SIM card until it’s “unlocked.”

Most mobile providers will unlock your phone if you request it so inquire before leaving as it might require a visit to the store or a few emails/phone calls with tech support.

Best International SIM Cards and eSIM Cards by Region

There isn’t a single “best” international SIM card for everywhere in the world but each region has some good options so that’s why I’ve broken this section down by region.

Orange Holiday World (Great SIM Card For Most Countries In The World)

The Orange Holiday World is a very popular choice for world travelers because it covers just about everywhere in the world and it’s backed by Orange—most “world” SIM cards are backed by no-name companies.

The main downside is that the data plan only lasts for 14 days so it’s not ideal for longer trips but you can top up the card one time for €29 to get another 14 days of service with an additional 10GB of data.

• PRICE:  $50
• DATA:  10GB
• INCLUDES TEXTS OR CALLS?:  NO
• USED AS A MOBILE HOTSPOT?:  Yes
• CREDIT VALID FOR:  14 Days

The Orange Holiday World plan includes 10GB of 4G/LTE data in many countries but there are a few “zones” that have a lower data limit.

Zone 1 (10GB data included) Europe:  Andorra, Azores, Aland islands, Austria, Balearic islands, Belgium, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Bulgaria, Canary Islands, Corfu, Crete, Croatia, Cyprus, Cyclades islands, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Faroe Islands, Finland, France mainland, Germany, Gibraltar, Greece, Guernsey, Hungary, Ireland, Iceland, Italy, Jersey, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Madeira, Malta, Isle of Man, Norway, Netherlands, Poland, Portugal, Rhodes, Romania, Spain, United Kingdom, San Marino, Sardinia, Serbia, Sicily, Slovakia, Slovenia, Switzerland, Sweden, Ukraine, Vatican

Other countries:  Algeria, Armenia, Australia, Saudi Arabia, Benin, Botswana, Brazil, Burkina Faso, Canada, Cameroon, Chad, Chile, China, Congo, Egypt, Gabon, Ghana, Guinea Bissau, Guinea Conakry, Hong Kong, India, Indonesia, Israel, Ivory Coast, Japan, Jordan, Kenya, Korea (south), Kuwait, Liberia, Macao, Madagascar, Malaysia, Mali, Mauritius, Mexico, Moldova, Montenegro, Morocco, Mozambique, Niger, Nigeria, New Zealand, Uganda, Peru, Qatar, Central African Republic, Democratic Republic of Congo, Russia, Senegal, Sierra Leone, Singapore, South Africa, Taiwan, Tanzania, Thailand, Tunisia, Turkey, UAE, USA, Vietnam

Zone 2 (5GB data included) Albania, Argentina, Bahrain, Colombia, Costa Rica, Ecuador, El Salvador, French Polynesia, Guatemala, Honduras, Iraq, Nicaragua, Oman, Panama, Dominican Republic, Uruguay

Zone 3 (1GB data included) Afghanistan, Belarus, Cambodia, Cape Verde, Equatorial Guinea, Kazakhstan, Pakistan, Paraguay, Philippines, Sri Lanka, St Vincent and the Grenadines, Togo, Venezuela

Zone 4 (50MB data included) Rest of the world

HOLAFLY ESIM (Unlimted Data eSIM Plans)

Holafly  is a new data-only eSIM provider that I recently used in Italy—the service was great and I got very fast data speeds (read my  Holafly eSIM Review  to learn more). They sell both country-specific and regional data plans. Unlike other companies, Holafly’s plans give you unlimited data and their plans run from 5 to 90 days (they will throttle your data if you use excessive data).

• 5 Days: $19
• 10 Days: $34
• 15 Days: $47
• 20 Days: $54
• 30 Days: $64
• 60 Days: $84
• 90 Days: $99
• Service Speed:  5G/4G/LTE
• Calls:  None
• Texts/SMS:  None
• Tethering:  No

Orange Holiday Europe eSIM and Physical SIM (Two Great Options For Europe)

The  Orange Holiday Europe SIM Card  and the Orange Holiday Europe eSIM Card are probably the best all-around options for European data because you get a good amount of data for a reasonable price—and it includes worldwide calls and text.

NOTE: Buy the Orange Holiday Europe eSIM Card if your phone is eSIM compatible since you’ll save on shipping fees and eSIMs are more convenient than physical SIM cards.

Additionally, Orange is one of the largest mobile companies in the world and they have great coverage throughout most of Europe.

Plan Specs:

• DATA:  30GB
• CALLS:  Unlimted in Europe and 1200 minutes worldwide
• TEXT:  Unlimted in Europe and 1000 worldwide
• CAN BE USED AS A MOBILE HOTSPOT?:  Yes

Orange Holiday Zen eSIM and Physical (Cheaper Option For Europe)

If you need less data and want to save a little money, check out the  Orange Holiday Zen SIM  and the Orange Holiday Zen eSIM —both are great all-around options for European data because you still get a solid amount of data for a reasonable price. Both plans also include worldwide calls and texts.

• Price:  $29.90
• Data:  15GB
• Service Speed:  4G/LTE
• Calls:  Unlimited within Europe and 30 min outside of Europe.
• Texts/SMS:  Unlimited within Europe and 200 outside of Europe.
• Credit validity:  14 day
• Data tethering allowed
• Usable on any device (phones, tablets, hotspots…)
• Cards come with a French phone number

AIS eSIM2FLY Global (eSIM that covers much of the world)

After the Orange Holiday World SIM, the AIS eSIM2FLY Global is another good option that doesn’t quite have as much data but it has the benefit of being an eSIM (so you don’t have to deal with shipping fees).

PRICE:  $49.90 DATA:  6GB INCLUDES TEXTS OR CALLS?:  NO CREDIT VALID FOR:  15 Days

Asia & Middle East

• Bangladesh, Bahrain 5G , Brunei, Cambodia, China (incl Tibet) 5G , Hong Kong 5G , India, Indonesia 5G , Israel 5G , Japan 5G , Jordan, Kuwait, Kyrgyzstan, Laos, Macau, Malaysia, Mongolia, Myanmar (Currently Blocked), Nepal, Oman 5G , Papua New Guinea, Pakistan, Philippines 5G , Qatar 5G , Saudi Arabia, Singapore 5G , South Korea 5G , Sri Lanka, Taiwan 5G , United Arab Emirates (UAE) – Dubai, Abu Dhabi 5G , Uzbekistan, Vietnam 5G
• Chad, Congo (Democratic Republic Of), Congo Republic, Egypt, Gabon, Ghana, Kenya, Madagascar Republic, Malawi, Nigeria, Reunion, South Africa, Tanzania, Tunisia, Uganda
• Åland Islands, Albania, Armenia, Austria 5G , Azerbaijan, Belgium 5G , Belarus, Bulgaria 5G , Croatia 5G , Cyprus (Northern), Czech Republic 5G , Denmark 5G , England 5G , Estonia, Faroe Islands, Finland 5G , France 5G , Georgia, Germany 5G , Greece, Hungary 5G , Iceland 5G , Ireland 5G , Italy 5G , Kazakhstan, Latvia 5G , Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg 5G , Malta 5G , Macedonia, Moldova, Montenegro, Netherlands 5G , Norway 5G , Poland 5G , Portugal 5G , Romania, Russia 5G , San Marino 5G , Serbia, Slovenia, Slovakia 5G , Spain 5G , Sweden 5G , Switzerland 5G , Turkey 5G , Ukraine, United Kingdom UK 5G , Vatican City 5G

North America

• Canada 5G , Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, Mexico  , Nicaragua, Panama, Puerto Rico, USA (incl Hawaii), United States Virgin Islands

South America

• Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Colombia , Ecuador, Paraguay, Peru, Uruguay

Oceania and Pacific Islands

• Australia 5G , Fiji, Guam, Nauru, New Zealand, Tonga

Travel SIM World (Multi-Country Coverage)

• Price:  $39.90
• Data:  6GB
• Credit validity: Lasts up to 15 days from the first point of activation.
• Calls/Texts: Does not support any calls or SMS. You are not able to receive any calls or SMS.

Countries Covered:

Albania, Australia, Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Cambodia, Canada, China, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Ghana, Greece, Hawaii, Hong Kong, Hungary, Iceland, India, Indonesia, Ireland, Italy, Japan, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxemburg, Macao, Malaysia, Malta, Myanmar, Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Philippines, Portugal, Qatar, Romania, Russia, Singapore, Slovakia, Slovenia, South Africa, South Korea, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Taiwan, Tibet, Turkey, Ukraine, United Kingdom, USA, Vietnam

AIS SIM2FLY SIM Card (Covers Much of Asia)

• Price $19.90
• Data: 6GB at maximum 4G/3G speed in Asia (wherever available)
• Credit validity: 10 days Credit Validity
• Coverage: 24 Asian countries (see below).

Australia, Bangladesh, Brunei, Cambodia, China (including Tibet), Hong Kong, India, Indonesia, Israel, Japan, Jordan, Kazakhstan, Laos, Macau, Malaysia, Myanmar, Nepal, Pakistan, Philippines, Qatar, Singapore, South Korea, Sri Lanka, Taiwan, Vietnam

China Unicom Asia 12 Days Data SIM (Multiple Asian Countries)

• Price: $22.90
• Credit validity: 12 days Credit Validity
• Coverage: 14 Asian countries (see below).

Cambodia, Hong Kong, Indonesia, Japan, Laos, Macau, Malaysia, Myanmar, Philippines, Singapore, South Korea, Taiwan, Thailand, Vietnam

MORE TIPS ON USING YOUR MOBILE PHONE INTERNATIONALLY

BUY A PORTABLE BATTERY CHARGER

Using apps like Google Maps and taking photos kills your phone battery so a portable battery is a must-have. I use  Anker PowerCore 10000  because it’s tiny and affordable but there are multiple options.

USING FREE WIFI WHILE TRAVELING ABROAD

I think people overestimate how easy it is to find free wifi in abroad. Yes, free wifi is becoming more prevalent throughout the world—however, it’s hard to rely exclusively on free wifi since it can be a pain to actually find a free network when you actually need it.

The best places to find free wifi are McDonald’s, Starbucks, cafés, coffee shops, and hostels/hotels — but getting connected is rarely super convenient, reliable, or fast.

Relying on free wifi fails when it comes to day-to-day stuff like using Google Maps, looking up restaurant reviews via Google/Trip Advisor/Yelp, using random apps, using Uber, booking e-tickets, using email, etc. because these are things you typically do spur of the moment. That’s why I prefer to have the option of having mobile data because having to seek out a coffee shop every time I want to use the internet gets tiring very quickly.

HOW TO LOWER YOUR MOBILE DATA USAGE

Data can be expensive and it’s extremely easy to unknowingly burn through a lot of data because many apps use data in the background. Facebook, email, Instagram, Snapchat… those all constantly use data throughout the day without you knowing it. That’s it’s important to know how to limit your data usage.

USE AIRPLANE MODE AND BLOCK DATA TO SPECIFIC APPS

I’ll put my phone in Airplane Mode because that disables all data (but GPS still works in Airplane Mode). You can also go into the settings and disable data access to each individual app. I’ll go in and turn every off except for things like Google Maps or others that I’ll use more frequently — this way when I turn off Airplane Mode only those apps that will use data. Then I’ll turn Airplane Mode back on when I’m done.

DOWNLOAD OFFLINE MAPS

Google Maps lets you download entire city maps so they can be used offline. As an added bonus, GPS doesn’t use data so offline Google Maps works fairly well (but not all functionality works). Here is a good  YouTube video  that explains everything.

MAKE CALLS OVER WhatsApp

WhatsApp is an excellent app for free calling and text messages—I’ve found that most people outside the US exclusively use WhatsApp to communicate (including many Airbnb hosts).

MORE TRAVEL ADVICE FROM THE SAVVY BACKPACKER

• How Much to Budget For Backpacking Through Europe
• How Much It Costs To Travel Europe  (For Multiple Travel Styles)
• Backpacking Europe Packing List
• Travel Europe Packing List for Women
• Guide to Prepaid eSIM Data Plans in Europe .
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• GENERAL TRAVEL

What is the Best SIM Card for International Travel?

Liz is a collector of grand adventures. She first discovered her passion for meaningful travel wh...

• General Travel
• button]:border-none [&>button]:bg-white [&>button]:hover:cursor-pointer [&>button]:hover:text-cyan-400"> button]:hover:text-cyan-400 [&>button]:bg-white hover:cursor-pointer" height="1em" width="1em" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg">

While traveling abroad is always a great opportunity to tune out and disconnect from the chaos of everyday life, it can also be extremely challenging to find yourself in a new country without any source of connection to your surroundings. Paying for an international phone plan can be expensive, but luckily it’s possible to find a source of connection without breaking the bank.

No need to ditch your connection while you’re off on your international adventure. The best travel SIMs have you covered!

International SIM cards give you the best of both worlds. Here you’ll find the best SIM card for international travel for every type of traveler. There are endless options out there and the best one will depend on your travel plans. All in all, international SIM cards offer an affordable and temporary opportunity to stay connected while traveling abroad by giving you access to your phone and wireless data across multiple countries around the world. Another option is to purchase mobile top-ups through apps like Boss Revolution , which can send top-ups to over 270 carriers in more than 100 countries.

Why use an international SIM?

International SIM cards unlock a whole new travel experience. While it can be tempting to ditch the phone on your next overseas adventure , having access to data while traveling abroad is important for two reasons: It keeps you safe and makes travel a whole lot more convenient.

After all, it’s not always possible to rely on WiFi when traveling abroad, and unless you have an expensive international phone plan, you risk being stranded in an unfamiliar place without basic information to make travel fun, safe, and easy.

International SIM cards are a bit different from local SIM cards. While it’s possible to buy local SIM cards when you arrive at your destination, these are best suited for travelers who are staying in one location for an extended period of time.

Local SIM cards can be a great option for those studying or working abroad , but if you’re traveling for shorter stints or across multiple countries, buying a local SIM card in each destination can be a hassle. International SIM cards give you access to data across multiple destinations and are often considered the best travel SIMs if you want to have the freedom to cross borders.

Where to buy your international SIM card

Stay in touch with your bestie from back home with an international SIM card.

If you want to stay connected throughout your travels and are wondering where to buy international SIM cards to prepare for your trip, there are a few things to keep in mind when weighing your options. Ask yourself:

• Where are you traveling?
• For how long will you travel?
• Are you going to multiple countries or one destination?
• What do you plan to use your phone for while abroad?

If you’re planning to stay in one location for an extended period of time, you can often buy local SIM cards when you arrive in the country. But if you want to buy an international SIM card in preparation for travel across multiple countries, your only option is to purchase one online.

Do your research on the best SIM card for international travel and consider which one suits your needs best. Once you weigh the pros and cons and work out the nitty gritty of your trip abroad , you can pre-purchase the best international SIM card for you online before you go. Then you’re ready to hit the ground running when you arrive at the destination of your dreams.

8 best SIM cards for international travel

There’s an international SIM card perfect for your travel plans out there.

You may be wondering, what is the best international SIM card for Europe, Asia, Africa, Australia, or wherever your wanderlust takes you next? The truth is, while there are some international SIM cards that are best suited for certain regions of the world, there are also some that can take you all around the globe without limitations.

The best SIM card for international travel will depend highly on what you want to use it for and how much you want to invest. Here are some of the best travel SIMs to explore before you go:

1. Breeze eSim

• Pros : Breeze eSim is a great option for travelers who don't want to worry about keeping track of separate physical SIMs while abroad. They offer coverage in over 245 mobile networks worldwide, as well as multiple networks per destination for increased coverage. You'll be covered in more than 150 countries through their various bundles. 
• Cons : Depending on your phone model and network provider at home, you may not be able to use an eSim.
• Coverage area : North America, Latin America, Europe, Asia, Middle East, Africa, Oceania, and Global.
• Base cost : $0
• Monthly cost : Varies by region, but starts at $15 / month in Europe 

2. OneSimCard

• Pros : Thanks to its wide coverage area, OneSimCard is one of the best travel SIMs for those who are traveling between multiple countries and regions. This is another eSIM, which means you won’t have to worry about removing and keeping track of your original SIM card or juggling between multiple SIMs as you travel across borders. Unlike other eSIMS, you can opt for a data+call package, which allows you to make international calls while abroad.
• Cons : One of the biggest cons to OneSimCard is that the website isn’t very user-friendly compared to other international SIM cards. That means purchasing and top ups may be a little more difficult than other options. OneSimCard is also a more expensive option, as you don’t get as much data for your investment.
• Coverage area : Europe, Asia, Middle East, and Africa.
• Base cost : $20
• Monthly cost : Ranges from $20-$100, depending on location
• Pros : Jetpac is the best SIM option for global coverage across multiple destinations. It removes the need to switch eSIMs, with a one-time installation that doesn't expire. Jetpac allows topping up new data packages in-app, as well as tethering to other devices. They provide affordable data coverage in over 50 countries—and even complimentary access to 1100 airport lounges globally in case of flight delay!
• Cons: Jetpac is data only, so you won't receive a local number or have access to text and "landline" calls. 
• Coverage area: Europe, Asia-Pacific, Latin America, Middle East, North America 
• Base cost: $0
• Monthly cost: Varies per region and country, but starts from $1/1GB trial on the global pack to $28 / month for 10GB data, valid 30 days when connected overseas
• Pros : KeepGo is one of the best travel SIMs for travelers in Europe and the USA because it is an official partner to some of the top networks in both regions, allowing travelers to stay connected to more than 500 networks across over 100 countries. One of the perks of KeepGo is its lifetime plan option. If you frequently travel abroad and want to stick with the same international SIM card for all of your overseas escapades, you can purchase data packages that are valid for one year—and if you top up within the year, you can continue to use your SIM the next year too.
• Cons : Similar to GigSky, KeepGo is a data-only SIM, which means you won’t be able to make calls or send texts abroad. It also requires you to input part of the SIM number when topping up data, which means you’ll have to keep track of this for years if you plan to keep using the card for future travels.
• Coverage area : All of Europe plus Algeria, Anguilla, Antigua and Barbuda, Argentina, Armenia, Aruba, Australia, Azerbaijan, Barbados, Bermuda, Bolivia, Brazil, British Virgin Islands, Canada, Cayman Islands, Chile, China, Colombia, Costa Rica, Dominica, Dominican Republic, Ecuador, Egypt, El Salvador, Georgia, Greenland, Grenada, Guadeloupe, Guatemala, Honduras, Hong Kong, India, Indonesia, Israel, Jamaica, Japan, Kazakhstan, Kuwait, Macao, Malaysia, Mexico, Montserrat, Myanmar, Netherlands Antilles, New Zealand, Nicaragua, Pakistan, Panama, Paraguay, Peru, Philippines, Puerto Rico, Qatar, Reunion, Russia, Saudi Arabia, Singapore, South Africa, South Korea, St. Lucia, St. Vincent and Grenadines, Suriname, Taiwan, Thailand, Trinidad and Tobago, Tunisia, Turkey, Turks and Caicos, USA, Uruguay, Venezuela, and Vietnam.
• Base cost : $14 for 500MB
• Monthly cost : Data packages (valid indefinitely) range from $14 for 500MB to $165 for 10GB

5. Three UK

• Pros : Three UK is one of the best international SIM cards for travelers, especially those traveling from the UK. It provides you with a UK phone number that allows calling and texting for free across more than 70 countries, as well as flexible pay-as-you-go data plans. It’s one of the cheapest and best international SIM cards for Europe that includes calls, texts, and data, and one of the best travel SIMs for Latin America.
• Cons : One of the biggest cons to using Three UK is the process for topping up your data. If you plan to travel for more than 30 days, you can only top up your data using a UK registered credit card. This is no big deal for UK residents, but if you don’t have access to a UK card, you’ll only be able to use the plan for calls and texts after the first month.
• Coverage area : All of Europe plus Australia, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Hong Kong, Indonesia, Israel, Macao, New Zealand, Nicaragua, Panama, Peru, Puerto Rico, Singapore, Sri Lanka, Uruguay, United States Virgin Islands, USA, and Vietnam.
• Base cost : $39.90
• Monthly cost : $39.90 / month for 12GB data + unlimited texts and calls
• Pros: easySim is the perfect travel companion, enabling travelers to stay connected without the fear of a huge bill when they get home. Simply purchase a data bundle from easySim.global, install the eSIM, and then activate your data bundle when you're ready to travel. The service is available to anyone in the world and you'll find coverage in 150 countries. 
• Cons: easySim provides data-only eSIMs, which do not come with a local telephone number.  
• Coverage area: 150 countries worldwide
• Base cost: $4.50 for 1GB for 7 days in Europe, varies by region
• Monthly cost: From $9 for 3GB in Europe, varies by region

7. KnowRoaming

• Pros : KnowRoaming is one of the most affordable international SIM card options out there with coverage across over 200 countries. It works by locating and connecting to local networks in your destination, which means if you’re in a well-populated area, you’ll always have coverage. It also works on most unlocked devices, whether you want to use it in a phone or tablet.
• Cons : Because KnowRoaming relies on local network connection, it can have difficulty picking up and connecting to networks in remote areas. If you’re planning to travel somewhere that’s more isolated, KnowRoaming won’t be your best option.
• Coverage area : Europe, Asia, Caribbean, Latin America, Middle East, and Global.
• Base cost : $10, which does not come with any credit
• Monthly cost : Varies by location, but starts at $40 / month8.  
• Pros : GigSky is one of the best international SIM cards if you’re looking for a plan that can take you almost anywhere in the world. This SIM card is available in 116 countries and works with most unlocked devices. It’s easy to use and comes as an eSIM, which means you don’t have to deal with swapping physical SIM cards. There are multiple plans to suit your needs, whether you want to use it for a few days, weeks, or months.
• Cons : Because GigSky comes as an eSIM, you won’t receive a local phone number and can’t make phone calls while abroad—it’s a data-only SIM. It’s also one of the more expensive options when it comes to international SIM cards.
• Coverage area : North America, Europe, Latin America, Caribbean, Middle East/Africa, and Asia Pacific.
• Base cost : $12 for 1GB for 15 days (location dependent)
• Monthly cost : $60 for 5GB worldwide / month

Your travel SIM card means you never have to miss a message from old OR new friends!

Plan Your Next Trip with our Travel Resources Hub!

Best international sim card for europe, orange holiday europe.

• Pros : Orange Holiday is often rated the top SIM card for international travel, and its European version is easily one of the best travel SIMs for exploring this region of the world. It’s easy to install into any unlocked phone and can be used across multiple countries in Europe without changing your preferences on your phone. Orange Holiday is not only the best international SIM card for Europe, but it also allows you to use it in other parts of the world for a reasonable price.
• Cons : One of the biggest cons of Orange Holiday is that it has limited support in some languages. If English isn’t your first language, it may not be user-friendly.
• Coverage area : Andorra, Azores, Aland Islands, Austria, Balearic Islands, Belgium, Canary Islands, Cyprus, Corfu, Crete, the Cyclades, Croatia, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Faroe Islands, Finland, France mainland, Germany, Gibraltar, Greece, Guernsey, Hungary, Ireland, Iceland, Italy, Jersey, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Madeira, Malta, Isle of Man, Norway, Netherlands, Poland, Portugal, Rhodes, Romania, Spain, United Kingdom, San Marino, Sardinia, Sicily, Slovakia, Slovenia, Switzerland, Sweden, and Vatican.
• Base cost : $50
• Monthly cost : $50 for 10GB / 14 days

Best SIM card for traveling Asia

Discover global e-sim card.

• Pros : Discover Global eSIM Card can be used worldwide, but it has one of the best coverages of popular Asian destinations, making it the best SIM card for traveling Asia. It’s one of the cheapest options out there and can take you through Asia and around the world if you desire. It also allows you to purchase plans for as short as one week, making it ideal for short-term travelers.
• Cons : Discover Global eSIM doesn’t allow calling and texting, like other eSIMs out there. While it can take you around the world, it doesn’t have very much coverage in Africa—however, you’ll be covered almost anywhere you want to go throughout Asia.
• Coverage area : China, Thailand, Hong Kong, Malaysia, South Korea, Japan, Singapore, Azerbaijan, Indonesia, India, Sri Lanka, Cambodia, Macau, Philippines, Tajikistan, Taiwan, Vietnam, and Global.
• Base cost : $10 / 7 days
• Monthly cost : Plans are available for $10 / week or up to $90 / 3 months

Best international SIM card for Australia and New Zealand

Orange holiday world sim.

• Pros : Orange Holiday World SIM is one of the best travel SIMs in the world. Similar to Orange Holiday Europe, this SIM card is owned by Orange, one of the best and largest mobile providers worldwide. Unlike its European sister, Orange Holiday World allows you to feel connected almost anywhere in the world, including Australia, New Zealand, and the rest of Oceania.
• Cons : One of the biggest cons to Orange Holiday is that the plans only last for 14 days. For some, this is ideal, but for those traveling for longer time periods, they may feel limited using this SIM card.
• Coverage area : All EU countries plus Algeria, Armenia, Australia, Saudi Arabia, Benin, Botswana, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Brazil, Burkina Faso, Canada, Cameroon, Central African Republic, Chad, Chile, China, Congo, Democratic Republic of Congo, Egypt, Gabon, Ghana, Guinea Bissau, Guinea Conakry, Hong Kong, Iceland, India, Indonesia, Israel, Ivory Coast, Japan, Jordan, Kenya, Kuwait, Liberia, Macao, Madagascar, Malaysia, Mali, Mauritius, Mexico, Moldova, Montenegro, Morocco, Mozambique, Niger, Nigeria, New Zealand, Norway, Peru, Qatar, Russia, Senegal, Sierra Leone, Singapore, Switzerland, South Africa, South Korea, Taiwan, Tanzania, Thailand, Tunisia, Turkey, UAE, United Kingdom, Uganda, Ukraine, USA, and Vietnam.

You don’t have to go off the grid while traveling!

You’re ready for the adventure of a lifetime when you find the best SIM card for your international travel plans.

Going off grid is tempting, but overrated. Staying connected while traveling the world enhances your experience and takes the stress out of international travel. With these travel SIM cards, you’ll save money on international roaming while being able to navigate a new city, stay in touch with family at home and new friends you meet along the way, and keep your mind at ease. What could be better than that?

Explore International Data Plans & SIM Cards

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• Works in  over 135+ countries , with a single card & phone number. (And get your card FAST with express delivery).
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• Your airtime lasts  one year (12 months) (Compared to local cards that expire after 6 months).

If you change your mind or can’t use our service, we will issue you a refund to the last penny on all unused services from 14 days of purchase.

TravelSim has more than 4.5 million users worldwide and covers 135+ countries, here’s why...

It’s prepaid, so you’re in control of the costs.

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14 Best International (E)-Sim Cards for Traveling in 2024

Traveling overseas soon? Avoid high roaming costs and get yourself a travel sim card, an international sim card with data that works all over the world! Does that exist? Yes! And good news, I updated this international sim card comparison for all your trips abroad in 2024 and included the best international e-sim cards as well.

First I will give you a comparison of the best international prepaid and e-sim cards available for traveling abroad in 2024, including all the pros and cons. Then at the end I will also explain the differences between a local prepaid sim card and a global travel sim card and tell which ones are cheaper.

At the end you can decide for yourself if you think it is worth buying an international (e)-sim card for your next trip or buy a local prepaid sim card on arrival in your holiday destination.

For your convenience I ranked the best international sim cards from best to worst. Number 1 is my top recommendation, then number 2 and so on… However, it also depends on the places and countries that you will be traveling to, so choose your sim card wisely.

Slowly physical sim cards are being replaced by e-sim cards. Physical sim cards are not needed anymore, no more swapping sim cards in your phone if your phone is e-sim compatible.

Actually, e-sim cards are the easiest way to stay connected when traveling abroad in 2024 and you are online as soon as the plane lands.

Here are some of the latest Traveltomtom e-sim card guides with everything you need to know about using an e-sim card in: USA , Canada , Mexico ,  Thailand , Hong Kong , Singapore ,  Malaysia , China , Australia ,  Europe ,  France , Italy , Spain , Portugal , United Kingdom ,  Turkey ,  Egypt , Dubai , Philippines , Vietnam  and many more.

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My recommendation

Depending on your destination local prepaid sim cards will give you more value for money. But you can only buy a sim card on arrival. If you are looking for the most convenient way to stay connected and want to arrive prepared at your holiday destination then order an international prepaid sim card or an e-sim card.

Overseas data plans and data roaming packages from the mobile operator from your home country mostly don't allow you to use the max data speed.

Traveltomtom recommends the following international sim cards:  Orange Holiday World sim card , Jetpac Global e-sim , a Three UK sim card or an  Airalo Discover Global e-sim card .

Personally I have a Discover Global e-sim card from Airalo with 20 GB data valid for 365 days installed on my phone. This e-sim card is valid in 130 countries and I use it every time the plane lands in a new country.

Depending on where and how long I travel I compare the local prepaid sim cards with the available e-sim cards.

Traveltomtom recommends getting an international prepaid or e-sim card from a reliable third party sim card provider. Great resources for buying international sim cards and e-sim cards are:

• SimOptions for physical sim cards as well as e-sim cards
• Airalo  for e-sim cards
• Nomad for e-sim cards
• Jetpac for e-sim cards

Personally Traveltomtom has used SimOptions and Airalo the most and for many consecutive years. Nomad and Jetpac are fairly new on the e-sim market, but since I figured out that both of them have some amazing e-sim card plans I started using them too. It depends on where I am traveling.

Comparison international sim card

As expected, there’s a wide range of international sim cards available on the internet. The challenge that most travelers are faced with is choosing the best one for their trip. The pricing and capabilities vary widely and some cater best for one trip, but suck for another trip.

In the following section, I will review and compare the top international sim cards. Read through the list carefully and pick the travel sim that works for you. As promised I listed the best travel sim cards on top!

 In short:

• Best sim card for Europe: Orange Holiday Europe  & Bouygues Telecom (e-sim)
• Best sim card for Caribbean: Knowroaming or KeepGo
• Best sim card for North America: Orange Holiday World & Three UK or a  Airalo Discover Global E-sim card
• Best sim card for Central America:  Three UK
• Best sim card for South America: Three UK or Airalo Discover Global E-sim card
• Best sim card for Africa: Orange Holiday World &  Discover Global E-sim card
• Best sim card for Asia: Airalo Discover Global E-sim card & Jetpac Global
• Best sim card for Southeast Asia: Jetpac Global
• Best sim card for the Middle East:  Discover Global E-sim card
• Best sim card for Oceania: Smart Traveller eSim, Nomad Global

Traveling to the Middle East? I visited all countries in the Middle East myself and wrote detailed sim card guides for them: Qatar ,  Dubai , Bahrain , Oman , Saudi Arabia , Jordan , Lebanon , Israel , etc.

All the international sim cards below can be ordered directly online and will either be shipped to your home address or send directly to your e-mail in case of an e-sim card. In case of a physical prepaid sim card they will come in a 3-in-1 sizes which makes them fit into any smart(phone), tablet or portable WiFi device.

In case of e-sim cards always make sure your smartphone is e-sim compatible before ordering an e-sim card.

1. Orange Holiday World  - not available as e-sim card

The international sim card with data that covers EVERY COUNTRY IN THE WORLD. Yes, with this prepaid travel sim you have data roaming included in 197 countries and that is the reason why I listed it as number 1.

The price? It is good compared to other similar sim cards.

Down sides of this Orange international sim card is that you can NOT make or receive phone calls, it is a pure data-only sim card only and this sim card does not come with a phone number. The Orange Holiday World sim card is only valid for 14 days. After these 14 days you can top up online, but it is complicated.

This international prepaid sim card is only offed by SimOptions, one of the most trusted sim card providers on the internet.

Click here to directly order an Orange Holiday World as a prepaid sim card via SimOptions .

Orange was initially referred to as France Telecom. As of today, the network has more than 250 million customers worldwide thanks to its big value data plans and free roaming in EVERY country in the world.

Unfortunately the Orange Holiday World sim card is NOT available as an e-sim card, only as physical prepaid sim card.

Prices and rates Orange Holiday World

The Orange Holiday World international sim card costs $49.90 USD and comes with max 10 GB data included. The volume of the package depends on your destination(s).

You get 10 GB data if you travel to any EU country and/or any of the other countries in Zone 1: Albania, Algeria, Andorra, Armenia, Australia, Saudi Arabia, Benin, Botswana, Bosnia & Herzegovina, Brazil, Burkina Faso, Canada, Cameroon, Central African Republic, Chad, Chile, China, Congo, Democratic Republic of Congo, Egypt, Gabon, Ghana, Guinea Bissau, Guinea Conakry, Hong Kong, Iceland, India, Indonesia, Israel, Ivory Coast, Japan, Jordan, Kenya, Kuwait, Liberia, Macao, Madagascar, Malaysia, Mali, Mauritius, Mexico, Moldova, Montenegro, Morocco, Mozambique, Niger, Nigeria, New Zealand, Norway, Peru, Qatar, Russia, Senegal, Sierra Leone, Singapore, Switzerland, South Africa, South Korea, Taiwan, Tanzania, Thailand, Tunisia, Turkey, UAE, United Kingdom, Uganda, Ukraine, USA, Vietnam

The Orange Holiday World sim card allows you to use 5 GB data in Zone 2: Argentina, Bahrain, Colombia, Costa Rica, Ecuador, El Salvador, French Polynesia, Guatemala, Honduras, Iraq, Nicaragua, Oman, Panama, Dominican Republic, Uruguay.

You get 1 GB data in: Afghanistan, Belarus, Cambodia, Cape Verde, Equatorial Guinea, Kazakhstan, Nepal, Pakistan, Paraguay, Philippines, Sri Lanka, St Vincent and the Grenadines, Togo, Venezuela

In any other country you get 50 MB. That is obvious not a lot and actually pretty useless.

If at any point, you run out of data, calls, or texts, you can top up your sim card online from the Orange website. The same package then costs you only €29 EUR ($31 USD) and you get again up to 10 GB data.

Review Orange Holiday World

If you are traveling to any of the countries listed in Zone 1 or Zone 2 then the Orange Holiday World is an excellent prepaid global sim card that I would recommend to buy.

Personally I wish the package would be valid for a little more than 14 days and I am missing some countries in the Caribbean that could be useful to add as these are popular tourist destinations for people traveling from the USA.

There is NO activation needed as the sim card automatically activates upon insertion in your phone, tablet or WiFi device. It is like plug and play. The credit validity starts when the sim card connects the first time to a supported network. Basically when the plane lands.

Lots of travelers from different parts of the world opt for Orange Holiday World because they are generous with data and cheap compared to other international sim cards. Therefore I call Orange Holiday World one of the best prepaid data sim card for traveling the world.

However, if you are traveling to countries listed in Zone 3 or 4 the Orange Holiday World sim card is NOT the best buy. Orange is also not a great sim card for traveling in the Caribbean.

The Orange Holiday World sim card also a great prepaid sim card for Africa as it covers a wide range of countries with 10 GB data roaming, especially in Central and West Africa. For East Africa check my prepaid sim card guides per country: Egypt , Kenya , Tanzania , South Africa , Uganda , Ethiopia  or the e-sim card below which is ranked as the best international sim card for traveling in Africa.

Click here for more info about the Orange Holiday World sim card .

Orange does offer amazing e-sim cards for traveling to multiple countries, but these are only valid in Europe.

As you can see above these are amazing sim card deals and valid in 39 countries, but limited to Europe only. This makes these one of the best e-sim cards for traveling in Europe .

Click here to order this Orange e-sim cards for traveling in Europe via SimOptions .

2. Jetpac Global

Jetpac is a fairly new e-sim provider and is trying to conquer the market with some incredible e-sim card plans for traveling the world.

At the moment their Jetpac Global e-sim card is valid in 100+ countries. Pretty much all of Europe and East Asia plus Australia, New Zealand, USA and many more countries and Jetpac constantly tries to add countries to the list.

Europe: Albania, Andorra, Austria, Belgium, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Gibraltar, Germany, Greece, Guernsey, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Jersey, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Moldova, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Russia, San Marino, Serbia, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Turkey, Ukraine, United Kingdom, Vatican City.

Asia: Armenia, Bangladesh, China, Georgia, Hong Kong, India, Indonesia, Israel, Japan, Kazachstan, Kuwait, Kyrgyzstan, Macau, Malaysia, Myanmar, Oman, Philippines, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, South Korea, Taiwan, Thailand, United Arab Emirates, Uzbekistan, Vietnam. 

Pacific: Australia, New Zealand.

Americas: Argentina, Brazil, Canada, Chile, Colombia, Costa Rica, Dominican Republic, Ecuador, El Salvador, Guadeloupe, Guatemala, Guyana, Honduras, Mexico, Nicaragua, Paraguay, Peru, Puerto Rico, USA, Uruguay.

Africa: Algeria, Chad, Egypt, Ghana, Morocco, Nigeria, Reunion, Tunisia.

This long list of countries where the Jetpac Global e-sim card is valid makes it a perfect e-sim card for traveling to East and Southeast Asia. The only countries missing in South East Asia would be: Singapore, Timor Leste, Brunei, Cambodia and Laos. All other countries in South East Asia are covered.

For traveling to Europe it is also a great e-sim card

Prices and rates Jetpac Global

Jetpac Global is at the moment the cheapest international e-sim card as they have an offer for just $1 USD.

• 1 GB data for 30 days = $1 USD
• 3 GB data for 30 days = $10 USD
• 10 GB data for 30 days = $25 USD
• 15 GB data for 30 days = $30 USD
• 25 GB data for 30 days = $38 USD
• 30 GB data for 30 days = $45 USD

Click here to  order a Jetpac Global e-sim card .

The Jetpac Global e-sim card plans are valid for 30 days and the validity starts automatically when it connects for the first time to a network in a country where you can use Jetpac.

Review Jetpac

The Jetpac Global 1 GB data package is obviously a winner at the moment with only $1 USD for 1 GB data in 50+ countries. I am sure this is a promo deal, but as long as it stands Jetpac is the cheapest international e-sim card for travelling abroad in 2024.

Their 30 GB data pack for $45 USD with a rate of only $1.5 USD per Gigabyte is not bad at all for an e-sim card valid in more than 100 countries. Well done Jetpac!

Personally I just wish these e-sim cards are not just valid for 30 days, but like 100 days or more. That would truly make it easier to travel the world with just 1 sim card.

It is a great e-sim card for traveling the world. Especially in Asia but as well in Europe and Middle East. Traveltomtom also listed Jetpac high on the list of the best prepaid and e-sim cards for traveling to Europe in 2024 .

Jetpac Global is only available as an e-sim card and not as a physical prepaid sim card. The Jetpac Global e-sim cards are data-only and incoming and outgoing calls are not supported. The Jetpac global e-sims are not 5G ready.

An extra advantage of Jetpac Global e-sim cards is that they provide free lounge access if your flight is delayed. However, you will have to register your flight before you travel and in case of a delayed or canceled flight a LoungeKey voucher will automatically be provided. This is a complimentary service that no other e-sim card providers offer.

For more info check out the Jetpack website .

3. Discover Global E-Sim Card from Airalo

The easiest and most convenient way to get internet on your phone when traveling abroad in 2024 is an e-sim card. The way e-sim cards work is that through software on your phone (just settings, nothing fancy) you are able to switch to another network. On this network you are able to use the data allowance according to which package you bought and activated.

Mind you this is an e-sim card and NOT a physical sim card. So no need to swap a physical sim card. Just scan the received QR code, follow the steps, instal the e-sim card and activate it. Trust me it is really simple.

With an e-sim card you keep your own phone number and whenever you want to use your own phone number you simply switch networks again in the settings.

Airalo is one of the leading e-sim card providers and Traveltomtom has used Airalo uncountable times all over the world. Airalo offers sim cards for pretty much every country in the world and they also sell 2 international e-sim cards:

• International data-only e-sim card.
• International e-sim card including calling and texting.

Both Discover Global e-sim cards from Airalo are valid in 130 countries, depending on the plan you buy the sim card is valid for 365 days. Traveltomtom has this e-sim card installed on his phone. It is a life saver many times and only costs $69 USD.

Prices Discover Global data-only E-Sim Card

• 1 GB data for 7 days = $9 USD
• 2 GB data for 15 days = $17 USD
• 3 GB data for 30 days = $24 USD
• 5 GB data for 60 days = $35 USD
• 10 GB data for 180 days = $59 USD
• 20 GB data for 365 days = $69 USD

Click here for more info or to order a Discover Global data-only E-Sim Card via Airalo .

Prices Discover Global E-Sim Card including calling/texting

• 1 GB data + 10 minutes + 10 sms for 7 days = $9 USD
• 2 GB data + 20 minutes + 20 sms for 15 days = $17 USD
• 3 GB data + 30 minutes + 30 sms for 30 days = $24 USD
• 5 GB data + 50 minutes + 50 sms for 60 days = $35 USD
• 10 GB data + 100 minutes + 100 sms for 180 days = $59 USD
• 20 GB data + 200 minutes + 200 sms for 365 days = $69 USD

The above data packages are valid in 130 countries:

• Europe: every European country is covered, including: UK, Switzerland, Norway, Iceland, Turkey, Russia, Ukraine, Moldova, Belarus and Greenland.
• North America: USA, Canada, Mexico, Dominican Republic, Panama, Puerto Rico, US Virgin Islands, Costa Rica, Honduras, Guatemala, Nicaragua, El Salvador
• Asia: China, Thailand, Hong Kong, Malaysia, South Korea, Japan, Singapore, Azerbaijan, Armenia, Georgia, Indonesia, India, Sri Lanka, Cambodia, Macau, Philippines, Tajikistan, Taiwan, Vietnam, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan, Pakistan.
• Oceania: Australia, New Zealand
• South America: Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, Paraguay, Bolivia, Uruguay.
• Middle East: Iraq, Israel, Kuwait, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, United Arab Emirates, Oman, Yemen.
• Africa: Sudan, South Africa, Zambia, Ghana, Gabon, Eswatini, Central African Republic, Chad, Tunisia, Tanzania, Seychelles, Senegal, Reunion, Kenya, Congo DRC, Republic of Congo, Niger, Nigeria, Morocco, Mali, Madagascar.

Big plus is that the Airalo Global Discover+ e-sim card is 5G ready in many countries.

Click here for more info or to order a Discover Global E-Sim Card including calls/sms directly online via Airalo .

Review Discover Global E-Sim Card

I am very overwhelmed with the amount of countries and especially the exact countries. Almost all the countries above are well known tourist destinations around the world. Fact is that the Discover Global E-sim card is one of the best sim cards for traveling in Africa. It also is by far the best for traveling in South America and Asia. It literally covers almost all countries in these continents.

Personally I have a Discover Global e-sim card activated on my phone as well. I bought the 20 GB valid for 1 year and using it a lot when I go to countries for just a couple days like when I was in Qatar, visiting family in Netherlands for 3 days, a couple days in Turkey, etc. To me this international e-sim card is a game changer! Traveltomtom loves the Discover Global E-sim card.

The downside of the Airalo Discover Global eSim card is that in some lesser known countries like Greenland, Belarus, Gibraltar, Eswatini, Central African Republic, etc. the max data speed is 3G. The performance in these countries is pretty disappointing.

But that said, I mostly only use my Global eSim card from Airalo only for the first hours/day when I am in a new country. Then I mostly opt for a local prepaid sim card, especially in the lesser known countries off the beaten path.

Click here for more info about the Discover Global E-Sim Card from Airalo .

4. Three UK prepaid sim card  - not available as e-sim cards

The sim cards from Three UK allow users to browse in up to 56 countries around the world at no extra costs and therefore is one of the international sim card for traveling abroad. Unfortunately the Three UK international sim cards are not available as e-sim cards, but only as physical sim cards.

These Three UK physical prepaid sim cards are available via SimOptions.

There are 6 data plans available but the PAYG AIO15 and the PAYG AIO20 are only valid in 3 countries and therefore not recommend as a sim card for traveling internationally.

• 10 GB data for 30 days = $24.90 USD
• 12 GB data for 30 days = $29.90 USD
• 12 GB data valid for 1 year = $59.90 USD
• 24 GB data valid for 1 year = $79.90 USD

Click here to order a Three UK international prepaid sim card via SimOptions .

Prices and rates 3 UK

A Three UK international sim card for travelers start from $24.90 USD which is a great price compared to other international sim cards and it also is valid for 30 days. That is $2.49 USD per Gigabyte.

Data roaming is free in all European countries + the following countries:

Australia, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Hong Kong, Indonesia, Israel, Macao, New Zealand, Nicaragua, Panama, Peru, Puerto Rico, Singapore, Sri Lanka, Uruguay, United States Virgin Islands, USA, Vietnam.

The Three UK prepaid international sim cards do NOT come with a phone number and incoming and outgoing calls/sms are not supported.

There is no registration needed as this international sim card gets automatically activated from its first use.

Review 3 UK PAYG AIO20

As a lot of Latin America countries are included, this travel sim card is one of the best sim cards for South America as well as Central America. On the contrary the 3 UK sim card is NOT good for traveling in Africa and or Asia.

Little downside is that you can only top up this Three sim card with a UK registered credit card. Therefore after 30 days you can only use this sim card to receive calls and text.

Click here for  more info about a Three UK international sim card .

5. Nomad - Data eSIM for Global

Nomad is a fairly new player on the e-sim card market, but Traveltomtom has used and tested many Nomad e-sim cards in the last months. They sometimes have exceptional good deals for some destinations. Traveltomtom discovered that Nomad has amazing e-sim card deals for Dubai for example.

However, the international e-sim cards from Nomad are rather expensive. They are valid in more than 100 countries though.

Nomad offers data-only eSim cards from eSIM Go and Thruphone. The eSIM Go plans are valid in 139 countries and the Truphone plans are valid in 109 countries.

eSIM Go plans

• 1 GB data for 7 days = $19 USD
• 3 GB data for 30 days = $40 USD
• 5 GB data for 30 days = $57 USD

The eSIM Go plans are valid in 139 countries.

Truphone plans

• 1 GB data for 7 days = $25 USD
• 5 GB data for 30 days = $45 USD

The Truphone e-sim cards are valid in 109 countries.

Click here to order a Truphone or eSIM Go e-sim card via Nomad .

Nomad e-sim card specifications

From the moment you buy a Nomad e-sim card you have 30 days to activate the e-sim card. Top-ups are available. 5G is NOT supported. Max data speed is 4G/LTE. The e-sim cards you buy via Nomad are all data-only and do not come with a phone number. Incoming and outgoing calls/sms are NOT supported.

Here are the 109 countries where the Truphone e-sim card is valid.

• Europe: every European country is covered, including: UK, Switzerland, Norway, Turkey, Russia
• North America: USA, Canada, Mexico, Panama, Puerto Rico, Costa Rica, Montserrat, Guadeloupe, El Salvador, Nicaragua, Bermuda, Barbados, Trinidad & Tobago, Guatemala, Grenada, Jamaica, Honduras, Turks & Caicos
• Asia: China, Thailand, Hong Kong, Malaysia, South Korea, Japan, Singapore, Armenia, Indonesia, Mongolia, Sri Lanka, Cambodia, Macau, Philippines, Taiwan, Vietnam, Kazachstan
• Oceania: Australia, New Zealand, Vanuatu, Solomon Islands, Samoa, Fiji
• South America: Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Ecuador, Uruguay, Peru, Paraguay, Suriname, Guyana, French Guiana
• Middle East: UAE, Israel, Qatar, Saudi Arabia
• Africa: Mozambique, South Africa, Ghana, Congo Brazzaville, Mayotte, Reunion, Tanzania

The eSIM Go e-sim cards are valid in the above countries plus: Algeria, Botswana, Cameroon, Chad, Morocco, Tajikistan, Yemen and a bunch more off the beaten path countries.

The Nomad Global e-sim cards are great for traveling in North America, South America and even Pacific as it covers a lot of countries in these continents.

For traveling in Europe it is way too expensive. Check out my list of the best prepaid and e-sim cards for traveling in Europe in 2024  for much cheaper deals.

Click here for  more info about the Nomad Global esim cards .

6. eSim2FLY Global

AIS is a mobile internet provider from Thailand. This e-sim card for international travel to more than 140 countries is a data-only sim card and incoming and outgoing calls and texts are not possible.

• 6 GB data valid for 15 days = $39.90 USD

Click here to  order the eSIM2FLY AIS international e-sim card via SimOptions .

eSIM2FLY AIS international e-sim card specifications

This e-sim card is valid in 141 countries around the world:

Afghanistan, Aland Islands, Albania, Argentina, Armenia, Australia (5G), Austria (5G), Azerbaijan, Bahrain (5G), Bangladesh, Belarus, Belgium (5G), Bhutan (5G), Bolivia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Brazil (5G), Brunei (5G), Bulgaria (5G), Cambodia, Canada (5G), Chad, Chile, China + Tibet (5G), Colombia, Congo, Costa Rica, Croatia (5G), Cyprus, Czech Republic (5G), Democratic Republic of the Congo, Denmark (5G), Dominican Republic, Ecuador, Egypt, El Salvador, England (5G), Estonia (5G), Faroe Islands, Fiji, Finland (5G), France (5G), Gabon, Georgia, Germany (5G), Ghana, Gibraltar, Greece (5G), Greenland, Guam (5G), Guatemala (5G), Guernsey,

Honduras, Hong Kong (5G), Hungary (5G), Iceland (5G), India, Indonesia (5G), Iran (5G), Ireland (5G), Isle of Man, Israel (5G), Italy (5G), Japan (5G), Jordan, Kazakhstan, Kenya, Kuwait (5G), Kyrgyzstan, Laos, Latvia (5G), Liechtenstein, Lithuania (5G), Luxembourg (5G), Macau (5G), Macedonia, Madagascar, Malawi, Malaysia (5G), Maldives (5G), Malta (5G), Mauritius, Mexico, Moldova, Monaco, Mongolia, Montenegro, Morocco.

Nauru, Nepal, Netherlands (5G), New Zealand (5G), Nicaragua, Nigeria, North Ireland, Northern Cyprus, Norway (5G), Oman (5G), Pakistan, Panama, Papua New Guinea, Paraguay, Peru, Philippines (5G), Poland (5G), Portugal (5G), Puerto Rico (5G), Qatar (5G), Reunion, Romania (5G), Russia (5G), San Marino (5G), Saudi Arabia (5G), Scotland (5G), Senegal, Serbia, Seychelles, Singapore (5G), Slovakia (5G), Slovenia (5G), Solomon Islands, South Africa (5G), South korea (5G), Spain (5G), Sri Lanka, Svalbard and Jan Mayen, Swaziland, Sweden (5G), Switzerland (5G), Taiwan (5G), Tajikistan, Tanzania, Tonga, Tunisia, Turkey (5G), Uganda, Ukraine, United Arab Emirates (5G), Uruguay, US Virgin Islands, USA (5G), Uzbekistan, Vanuatu, Vatican City (5G), Vietnam (5G), Wales (5G), Western Samoa.

Big plus about eSIM2FLY from AIS is that it is one of the only international sim card that is 5G ready. However, it is also much more expensive and only valid for 15 days.

Click here for  more info about the eSIM2FLY AIS international e-sim card .

Holafly is a very popular e-sim provider and they have e-sim cards for all popular tourist destinations around the world. Since Holafly is a popular e-sim is has to be part of this list of the best international sim cards.

However, Holafly only works with e-sim cards with unlimited data. Traveltomtom is not of using sim cards with unlimited data because this does not mean unlimited data at high speed. There is a so-called Fair Use Policy (FUP) and if you go over that quota your data speed is reduced to basically an E signal. Barely enough to send photos through WhatsApp. Social Media apps won't be working anymore.

In fact, Holafly does not have a global plan which is for example valid in several countries on different continents. Holafly has different e-sim cards per continent:

• North America
• Latin America

The rates per regional e-sim differ a little bit but in general comes down to the following plans:

• 1 day 'unlimited' data = $6 USD
• 2 days 'unlimited' data = $10 USD
• 3 days 'unlimited' data = $13 USD
• 4 days 'unlimited' data = $16 USD
• 5 days 'unlimited' data = $21 USD
• 6 days 'unlimited' data = $25 USD
• 7 days 'unlimited' data = $29 USD
• 8 days 'unlimited' data = $31 USD
• 9 days 'unlimited' data = $35 USD
• 10 days 'unlimited' data = $37 USD
• 11 days 'unlimited' data = $40 USD
• 14 days 'unlimited' data = $48 USD
• 20 days 'unlimited' data = $64 USD
• 30 days 'unlimited' data = $75 USD

The Holafly e-sim cards are data-only and incoming and outgoing calls/sms are NOT supported. These e-sims do also not come with a phone number. The Holafly e-sims operate on the 4G/LTE network and are not 5G ready.

Review Holafly

Traveltomtom has tried out Holafly in several different countries and with mixed feeling. Apart from experiencing reduced internet speed Traveltomtom was also not happy with the data speed of Holafly e-sims. Especially inside buildings popular social media apps like TikTok and Instagram were not working smooth.

8. Surfroam

A Surfroam international sim card is a data only global sim card. With mobile coverage in 200+ countries and territories as they state on the Surfroam website.

You can not receive and make phone calls however you can receive sms. Also Facebook Messenger, Whatsapp and Viber are unlimited and always accessible when buying a Surfroam prepaid travel sim card.

Prices and rates Surfroam

At Surfroam they offer 2 products: a normal sim card for €15 EUR ($16.4 USD) and an e-sim card for €20 EUR ($22 USD). Basically Surfroam is a free international prepaid sim card as you get either €15 EUR ($16.4 USD) or €20 EUR ($22 USD) credit INCLUDED.

The common rate for most Western countries is €0.01 per MB, which means €10 EUR ($11 USD) per 1 GB data. They charge you per MB. See here a quick overview of the costs per MB per continent.

Review Surfroam

As opposed to other world sim cards, with Surfroam you don’t need to buy data bundles in advance. This flexibility appeals to long-term travelers or those hopping between different countries of the world constantly.

Also a big plus of Surfroam is that they are providing a ‘free’ international sim card, what you pay, you get back in credit.

Overall, the Surfroam data roaming rates and its pricing model is flexible and easy to understand. Compared to other international sim cards this is very clear, transparent AND MUCH CHEAPER!

There is data roaming coverage in over 200 countries and territories and per country is stated how much they charge per MB.

One of the negative sides of Surfroam are the steep shipping costs. For most Western countries you already pay more than $20 USD, for the USA Surfroam adds even $25 USD shipping fee. Therefore I would recommend you buying the Surfroam e-sim travel sim card instead to save on shipping costs.

Also when looking at the rates per MB of the countries in Africa, it is an easy conclusion that Surfroam is a good sim cards for traveling in Africa, but not so much for South America.

For more info check out the  Surfroam  website.

Traveltomtom traveled to more than 70% of the countries in Africa and wrote detailed sim card guides for the following countries in Africa: Kenya , Nairobi ,  Tanzania , Ethiopia , Djibouti , South Africa , Uganda , Gabon , Cameroon , Congo Brazzaville ,  Rwanda , Burundi ,  Namibia , Lesotho , Zambia ,  Egypt , Ghana , Sao Tome & Principe , Ivory Coast and many more. If you travel to any of these countries I would recommend you to check the link.

KeepGo is an official partner of Vodafone, Telefonica, and AT&T with offices in Israel, the USA, and the Netherlands and operates on 500 connected networks in more than 100 countries. The Keepgo international sim card is a data only sim card and does NOT support any incoming or outgoing calls & text.

Prices and rates KeepGo

Gofi prepaid data sim card - $39 usd.

This is a sim card just for Europe and the USA. With this pay as you go sim card you pay $8 / GB data, regardless where in Europe or the USA you are.

Not great for world travelers, but may be if you travel between the USA and Europe a lot.

Lifetime Prepaid Data Sim Card - $49 USD

This international sim card works in more than 100 countries and comes with 1 GB data included.

If you want more data you will have to add one of the data packages below:

• $14 USD= 500 MB
• $26 USD = 1 GB
• $61 USD = 3 GB
• $88 USD = 5 GB
• $165 USD = 10 GB

Click here to order a KeepGo international sim card .

The data packages are valid for 1 year! If you top up once per year, all data is valid for lifetime.

The Keepgo Lifetime Prepaid Data Sim Card is valid in all of Europe and the following countries & territories:

Algeria, Anguilla, Antigua & Barbuda, Argentina, Armenia, Aruba Australia, Azerbaijan, Barbados, Bermuda, Bolivia, Brazil, British Virgin Islands, Canada, Cayman Islands, Chile, China, Colombia, Costa Rica, Dominica, Dominican Republic, Ecuador, Egypt, El Salvador, Georgia, Greenland, Grenada, Guadeloupe, Guatemala, Honduras, Hong Kong, India, Indonesia, Israel, Jamaica, Japan, Kazakhstan, Kuwait, Macao, Malaysia, Mexico, Montserrat, Myanmar, Netherlands Antilles, New Zealand, Nicaragua, Pakistan, Panama, Paraguay, Peru, Philippines, Puerto Rico, Qatar, Reunion, Russia, Saoudi Arbia, Singapore, South Africa, South Korea, St. Lucia, St. Vincent & Grenadines, Suriname, Taiwan, Thailand, Trinidad & Tobago, Tunesia, Turkey, Turks & Caicos, USA, Uruguay, Venezuela, Vietnam.

Review Keepgo

Buying a Keepgo global sim card it self is rather expensive as you pay $49 and only get 1 GB included. Good thing is that Traveltomtom readers can get a 10% discount by applying the KeepGo Coupon Code: TRAVELTOMTOM. They also sell WiFi hotspots for international travel.

The Keepgo data package prices are rather expensive, but compared to other international sim cards they have better prices than for example OneSimCard, Travsim and Gosim and therefore they deserve spot number 6 in this list of the cheapest international travel sim cards in the world.

Coverage wise the Keepgo sim card has some specific advantages. Looking at the list of countries where Keepgo offers free data roaming I come to the conclusion that Keepgo is also one of the best international sim cards for the Caribbean. They cover almost every island, territory and country in this pristine part of the world.

Keepgo offers free shipping worldwide which is another great plus. For more info check the KeepGo website .

If traveling to the Caribbean it is definitely recommended to buy a local prepaid sim card on arrival. Prepaid sim cards with data are cheap. Check out Traveltomtom's sim card guides for: Aruba , Curacao , Jamaica , Santo Domingo , Dominican Republic , Antigua & Barbuda .

10. Know Roaming

They call themselves the ultimate travel sim card you will only ever need to stay connected in 200+ countries & territories.

Prices and rates Know Roaming

The price for a Know Roaming Travel SIM card is $9,99 and does NOT come with any credit. Know Roaming international sim cards do NOT support incoming and outgoing phone calls. You can opt for a Know Roaming e-sim which is for free.

You will have to buy any of the below data packages to use your sim card abroad:

• Global: 5 GB data for 30 days in 79 countries = $99.99 USD
• Europe: 5 GB data for 30 days = $39.99 USD
• Asia: 5 GB data for 30 days = $39.99* USD

* valid in: Australia, Azerbaijan, Bangladesh, Brunei, Cambodia, China, Fiji, Hong Kong, India, Indonesia, Macau, Malaysia, Myanmar, New Zealand, Pakistan, Philippines, South Korea, Sri Lanka, Taiwan, Thailand, Vietnam.

Know Roaming also offers an international e-sim card service with data plans for Europe, Asia, Caribbean, Latin America, Middle East & Global.

• Asia: 5 GB data for 30 days = $39.99 USD
• Caribbean: 1 GB data for 30 days = $39.99* USD
• Latin America: 5 GB data for 30 days = $117.99** USD
• Middle East: 5 GB data for 30 days = $40.99*** USD
• Global: 5 GB data for 30 days = $110.99**** USD

* valid in: Anguilla, Antigua & Barbuda, Aruba, Barbados, Bermuda, Cayman Islands, Curacao, Dominica, El Salvador, French Guyana, Grenada, Guadeloupe, Guyana, Haiti, Jamaica, Martinique, Montserrat, St. Kitts & Nevis, St. Lucia, St. Vincent & Grenadines, Suriname, Trinidad & Tobago, Turks & Caicos Islands.

** valid in: Brazil, Chile, Costa Rica, Panama, Paraguay, Peru, Mexico, Uruguay.

*** valid in: Israel, Kuwait, Oman, Saoudi Arabia, Qatar.

**** valid in Europe & some popular tourist destinations around the world + some off the beaten path countries.

Review Know Roaming

Compared to other international sim card services the Know Roaming sim card is cheap: just $10. Their global data packages are average priced compared to other services and you can choose per continent.

For the Know Roaming e-sim you only pay for the data package which is a great service and therefore prices are cheaper than other services.

Know Roaming is one of the best prepaid international sim cards for the Caribbean as they cover almost every island, however data roaming is expensive. The Know Roaming Latin America sim card is way overpriced and not recommended at all. Instead Know Roaming is one of the best sim cards for Asia.

For more info about the Know Roaming travel sim card check their website .

11. Travelsim

A Travelsim international sim card works in 135+ countries, covers 170+ countries and states to work in 200 countries. All information found on their homepage! Just like free incoming calls and text. Well, I bet some of this is true at least.

Prices and rates Travelsim

Travelsim offers a world sim card for $10 USD and an e-sim card for $6. When buying a Travelsim sim card it also suddenly states free incoming calls in 70+ countries and coverage in 135+ countries. :)

Their pricing and rates are clear and straight forward though.

Review Travelsim

When ordering a Travelsim international sim card prices are easy to understand, however more expensive than other global sim cards and therefore not my prefered sim card for travelers. They offer free shipping worldwide on orders over $50 USD and their calling credit is valid for 18 months. For more info check the Travelsim website .

12. GigSky E-sim Card

GigSky does NOT sell physical sim cards anymore and only offers an international e-sim card. There are multiple data packages available some with pretty good deals. Gigsky is a data only service, you can NOT make or receive phone calls/sms.

Gigsky has coverage in 116 countries. Their coverage in Africa is very limited.

Prices and rates Gigsky

Great thing is that the Gigsky e-sim cards are free, but you will need to download their app to use their service. Through the app you can buy your desired data bundles. They offer regional data packages as well as a World Plan.

There are multiple Regional Plans, a great one is the Latin America sim card, and there is 1 world sim card with fixed data bundle prices.

Review Gigsky

Some of the offered international data roaming plans are pretty decent. Overall Gigsky is one of the best sim cards for traveling in South America with 5GB in almost every country in Latin America for just $40 USD.

Compared to other international travel sim cards the Gigsky worldwide sim card is expensive with 5GB data for $60 USD and therefore I would NOT recommend using the Gigsky e-sim card for traveling the world. The international sim card deals above are much better value for money!

Or check out the following sim card guides:

• Traveling to Europe? Check out my article about the best sim cards for Europe .
• Traveling to Asia? Check out my article about the best sim cards for Asia .
• Traveling to the USA? Check out my article about the best sim cards for USA .

For example buying a sim card in Vietnam will cost you $9 USD and gets you 2 GB data PER DAY + 60 minutes calling time valid for 30 days. Just saying, that local prepaid sim cards are amazing alternatives to international prepaid sim cards.

However, nowadays the easiest way to stay connected are e-sim cards and you can buy an e-sim card on the internet for pretty much every country. Here are some of the latest Traveltomtom e-sim card guides: Italy , France , USA , Thailand .

13. OneSimCard

According to many websites OneSimCard takes the cup when it comes to the cheapest international sim card. But is this true? Let's see...

This prepaid mobile service provider is a product of US telecommunication carrier Belmont Telecom. At OneSimCard they say they operate in 200+ countries, but there are only 197 countries in the world!? Bit of a weird start…

The international sim cards offered by OneSimCard come with two numbers, an Estonian one (Europe) and one of your choice: USA, Canada, Australia.

Prices and rates OneSimCard

Anyway at OneSimCard they offer 4 different international sim cards:

Universal SIM - $29.95 USD

• Calling & texting in more than 160 countries*
• Free incoming calls in more than 120 countries
• Free incoming sms in more than 160 countries
• Data roaming in more than 160 countries*
• Free $10 credit

*For using data and make calls/sms you will have to buy additional data or voice packages.

Expedition SIM - $34.95 USD

• Calling & texting in more than 200 countries*
• Free incoming calls in more than 110 countries
• Free incoming sms in more than 200 countries
• Data roaming in more than 170 countries*

Europe & More SIM - $19.95 USD

• Calling & texting in more than 100 countries*
• Free incoming calls in more than 70 countries
• Free incoming sms in more than 100 countries
• Data roaming in more than 90 countries*

This is no physical sim card, but a digital SIM. It allows you to have a data/call package activated through a provider without using a physical sim card. It mostly works by installing an app.

At OneSimCard they offer an international eSIM for $9,95. It does NOT come with any credit, you will have to buy data and calling bundles at extra charge through the OneSIMVoIP app.

The OneSimCard eSIM comes with a European number and has coverage in over 160 countries. There is no shipping needed as you can download it on your phone instantly.

Additional data roaming packages

OneSimCard makes use of two different zones. In Zone A you will find mostly all western countries as well as the standard tourist destinations in the world. In Zone B will find more off the beaten path countries.

The OneSimCard data plan prices are pretty expensive. Here are some examples:

• Universal SIM - Zone A - 5 GB data - 30 days = $90 USD
• Universal SIM - Zone B - 5 GB data - 30 days = $199 USD
• Expedition SIM - Zone A - 2 GB data - 30 days = $20 USD
• Expedition SIM - Zone B - 2 GB data - 30 days = $99 USD
• Europe & More SIM - Zone A - 3 GB data - 30 days = $50 USD
• Europe & More SIM - Zone B - 3 GB data - 30 days = $99 USD

These are examples of kind of standard tourist data packages. Well if you ask me… EXPENSIVE!

Review OneSimCard

Personally I think OneSimCard is very expensive. First off they basically make you pay for an international sim card that has no packages included. When you take away the $10 USD free credit you are still paying $10 USD just for an international sim card only. When buying the Expedition SIM even $24.95 USD

It also states everywhere data roaming from $0.01 cent per MB. Well, I have tried to look for that country, but I can’t find it! Instead, I found out that basically all Western countries you pay $0.25 cent per MB. That is 25x more!

That also means $10 credit is just 40 MB, that is basically opening Instagram 1x and your credit is gone! Oh for example roaming in Algeria cost $1.75 per MB with a Universal SIM and $25 USD per MB with an Expedition SIM. That is $1,000 USDjust for opening Instagram! I am dying… :)

So other international sim card comparisons that recommend OneSimCard... I think are a joke!

All that glitters is not gold in the global sim card world and as you can predict I do not recommend buying a OneSimCard for using data abroad, but just for receiving calls they are ok. For more info check the OneSimCard website .

To put this all in perspective:  buying a prepaid sim card in Switzerland , one of worlds most expensive countries, will cost you $20 USD and but it comes with $20 USD credit. Then you activate 24 hours unlimited high speed internet for $3 USD in Switzerland. That means for $21 USD you have 1 week UNLIMITED high speed internet when buying a local sim card in Swiss.

Conclusion of OneSimCard: really expensive data roaming plans and therefore is OneSimCard not directly recommended for using as an international sim card for traveling the world.

14. WorldSIM

Another global sim card that claims to be a free international sim card, well… A WorldSIM International travel sim card is only ‘free’ if you add €120 EUR ($131 USD) credit to it! Not a great start when Traveltomtom is reviewing your service.

WorldSIM offers a data roaming only sim card as well as an international sim card for calling/texting. They are priced equally, however data roaming with the calling/texting sim card is much more expensive. The data sim card offers data roaming in 188 countries.

Prices and rates WorldSIM

The cheapest deal you can find on WorldSIM is €42 EUR ($46 USD). You will get a global sim card with €24 EUR ($26 USD) credit.

Just like for example OneSimCard they claim data roaming rates from 0,01 cents but I can’t find that country. In most Western countries and popular tourist destinations data roaming starts from 0,02 cents.

Review WorldSIM

For a reason it is only listed at spot X in my comparison of the best international sim cards. WorldSIM is pretty expensive and the cheapest data roaming is €20 EUR ($22 USD) per 1 GB data.

Most countries off the beaten path are VERY expensive. Don’t go to Cuba, that costs you more than $3 USD per MB, that is $3,000 USD per 1 GB or what about the Caribbean countries? About $0.30 per MB, that is $300 USD per 1 GB.

When looking for an international sim card for traveling the world then Traveltomtom does NOT recommend WorldSIM, simply because there are much cheaper options available. For more info check the Worldsim website .

Prepaid tourist sim cards vs. international sim cards

But before buying an international prepaid or e-sim card for your trip abroad I want to make you aware of the existence of local prepaid sim cards as well. Because the main reason I am writing this blog post is for you to save money on high roaming costs when traveling. In most cases local prepaid sim cards are the cheapest way to get data on your phone.

There is a big difference between local prepaid sim cards for tourists and international travel sim cards. While the former is great for traveling in 1 country, an international sim card is a great option for travelers who don’t intend to stay in a country for very long and visit multiple countries on one trip.

An exception is a European sim card. There are international sim cards created just for Europe, but also a lot of local prepaid sim cards in Europe allow FREE roaming within the EU. But it is a bit more complicated with a lot of small letters full of restrictions.

Click here for more information about buying a local prepaid sim card in Europe in 2024  or check my list of the best prepaid and e-sim cards for Europe travel in 2024 .

For example all the below listed international sim cards claim to cover Africa. Yes, they are not lying, but the rates per MB are averaging around $0.10, that means 100 MB will cost you $10. That can be as little as using Instagram for about 10 minutes.

Comparing this to a local prepaid sim card for tourists in Uganda  where the same $10 gives you more than 15 GB data for 1 month, you can understand why Traveltomtom recommends a local prepaid sim card over a global sim card in some countries.

What is cheaper?

A local prepaid sim card for tourists gives you often more value for money than an international sim card. Therefore in the beginning of this article I told you that you will have to decide whether you want to buy an international sim card for traveling abroad or buying a local prepaid sim card for tourists on arrival.

Because I am aiming to travel to every country in the world  and I buy a sim card in every country I visit I also already wrote already more than 200 guides for buying sim cards:  London , Paris , Tanzania , Lebanon ,  Rome , USA , Canada , Mexico , South Africa ,  Guatemala , Honduras ,  Turkey , Israel , Dubai , Thailand , Kenya ,  Indonesia , Sydney , Singapore ,  Vietnam , UK , Spain , Italy , France , Norway , Georgia , Colombia , Dominican Republic  and many more.

Local prepaid sim cards are often pretty cheap and come with big value data bundles. Most countries and operators have special tourist sim cards. Downside is that you can only buy them on arrival, so you have to visit a phone store during your holiday or get one from the airport.

In most countries they only provide physical prepaid sim cards for tourists and e-sim cards are not available.

But where local prepaid sim cards stop working, international sim cards continue to roam. With a sim card designed with overseas travel in mind, you will be online as soon as the plane touches the ground.

With international sim cards, you can cross borders and continue to enjoy data on your phone browsing the internet, make/receive calls, and send texts as if you are still at home all with the same sim card.

Crossing many borders in a short period of time? International travel sim cards are the best solution! Which one? Personally I recommend e-sim cards for traveling in 2024, but check my list below.

Where can you buy an international sim card?

Buying an international sim card can only be done on the internet often through a third party. In this article I will show you the best websites where to buy a global sim card for world travelers and I will link directly to the operators so in case you are interested you can have a look on their websites for more details.

International sim cards for traveling the world are available as physical prepaid sim cards as well as e-sim cards. Physical prepaid sim cards will be delivered to your home address and e-sim cards will be send to you as a QR code in your email.

Where can you buy local prepaid sim cards for tourists

Local prepaid sim cards can only be bought in a store or kiosk in the destination itself. In almost every country you will find local prepaid sim card shops on arrival at the international airport. On Traveltomtom you can find sim card guides for more than 100 airports around the world: Bangkok , Jakarta , Manila ,  Bali , Hong Kong , Singapore , Shanghai ,  Sydney , Istanbul , Cairo , Dubai , New York , Miami , London , Rome , Paris , Madrid , Barcelona ,  Amsterdam and many more.

Keep in mind that buying a local prepaid sim card on an international airport is mostly more expensive. You can get better prepaid sim card deals from official retail stores in city centers, shopping malls or from random mobile phone shops.

In some countries you can also buy local prepaid sim cards in convenience stores, gas stations or supermarkets. Keep in mind when buying a local prepaid sim card in any of these shops that you will mostly have to activate the sim card yourself. That means it is not plug and play.

Two things that both local and international sim cards have in common is that they avoid high roaming costs!

International sim cards with unlimited data

Traveltomtom does NOT recommend e-sim cards with unlimited data. In most cases 'unlimited' does NOT mean 'unlimited' and there is always a so-called FUP (Fair Use Policy). Holafly is one of those e-sim card providers that sell international e-sim cards with unlimited data, but they have a strict FUP. Always read the small letters to not get surprised!

In the past I often had negative experiences with sim cards with unlimited data. If one day you use more than the FUP limit you have to wait 24 hours for your data speed to get restored. Those 24 hours your international sim card with unlimited data is pretty much useless. It is simply really inconvenient.

If you buy an international sim card with for example 30 GB data and you are going on a holiday for 10 days then you should have more than enough data. Those 30 GB data sim cards are pretty much the same as a sim card with unlimited data in these cases. But you will not need to be worried about the Fair Use Policy and data speed reduction.

Can international sim cards connect from everywhere?

Technically speaking – yes. International sim cards are designed to work in multiple countries, but as you have read above there are a ton of restrictions. An international sim card isn’t programmed to one specific network. Instead, it operates on several networks in different geographical locations and can therefore be used in multiple countries.

International sim cards usually operate on networks that use the GSM framework. GSM stands for Global Systems Management Communications. Once the sim card is inserted, it connects to one of the local networks automatically if the plan you chose works in the country you are traveling to.

If you intend to use your phone with an international sim card, you have to make sure your phone is unlocked as well as e-sim compatible in case you are choosing to use an e-sim card over a physical prepaid sim card.

International sim cards only work in unlocked phones

As previously mentioned, you need an unlocked phone for the international sim card to work. A cell that comes with a sim lock can only be used within a defined cellular network and is blocked for any other networks.

This mostly applies to phones bought in the USA, Canada. Phones bought in Europe, Australia, Middle East are mostly unlocked.

There’s no need to spend hundreds of dollars to get a new phone if you can get your current one unlocked by your carrier. Once your phone has been unlocked, you can easily switch to any local or international sim card whenever you need to.

If you have a sim lock, I recommend you to unlock your phone before your trip. Contact your local mobile service provider to ask them to unlock the phone and find out if you’re required to pay any unlocking charge.

Do you really need an international sim card?

International sim cards are also referred to as travel sim cards and that is simply because of how convenient they can be for travelers visiting multiple countries. If you don’t want to worry about roaming charges while you are traveling abroad and crossing broders, you can purchase an international sim card.

But if you are visiting just one country on your trip abroad you can easily opt for a local prepaid sim card or an e-sim card for that specific country and there is no direct need to buy an international sim card that is valid in multiple countries.

If you use a lot of data then in general local prepaid sim cards are cheaper than e-sim cards, but e-sim cards are much more convenient as you can order them already online before your trip and as soon as the plane lands you are online.

On Traveltomtom you will find more than 200 sim card guides from all around the world: Tajikistan , Papua New Guinea , Uzbekistan , Izmir , Marseille , Tashkent , Algeria , Curacao , Zurich , Bangkok , Bali , Micronesia , Miami , Manila , Shanghai , Philippines , Brazil , Mexico , Zambia , Ghana  and many more.

With a prepaid sim card you are always in control of your bills!

I cannot stress enough about the importance of staying connected while you travel. International sim cards avoid being charged exorbitant data roaming charges. Enjoy low and affordable rates with no hidden fees by getting an international sim card.

Which international sim card is the best? Did you already pick from all the great options that I recommended you? Of course Traveltomtom recommends the ones on top of the list more than the options on the bottom. The last ones are the least recommended but I just wanted to give you all the options, so you could make up your own mind about which international sim card you are going to use for your trip abroad.

I am sure that at least some of the the above tips for buying an international sim card were helpful.

Summerizing:

Remember that there are several factors that you need to put into consideration such as country coverage, prices for data plans, data speed 4G/LTE/5G, calling options, data-only, SMS packages, credit validity and duration/validity.

At the end of the day, the best international sim card is the one that suits your needs and your trip.

If you have any more questions please feel free to leave me a comment below and I am more than happy to help you out.

Since Traveltomtom is on a journey to travel to every country in the world I get to a new country regularly. Everywhere I go I buy a new local prepaid sim card or I order an e-sim card on the internet. In my bag I have a collection of about 200 little prepaid sim cards from all over the world, but nowadays I use e-sim cards pretty much all the time because they are so convenient.

Is this article was helpful please consider helping me in return by sharing this article in the internet. Every tweet on X, post to Reddit, share in a Facebook Group or pin on Pinterest is worth a lot to me. Thanks in advance!

Looking for some extra travel inspiration? Check out my Instagram profile @traveltomtom and get fuelled by my journey to visit every country in the world . As of June 2024 I have visited more than 155 countries around the world.

      View this post on Instagram       A post shared by Adventure Travel & Blogger (@traveltomtom)

Some links in this article about the best international travel sim cards are affiliate links. If you buy any of the products after using an affiliate link I will earn a small commission. Don’t worry this is at absolutely no extra cost to you!

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Best global SIM cards of 2022

Access worldwide calls, texts, and data

Everyone likes to be able to use their smartphone when they travel internationally, but it’s too easy to rack up a large roaming bill if you’re not careful. Fortunately, you can usually cut costs by purchasing a local SIM card in the country that you’re visiting.

1. Knowroaming

2. flexiroam x, 4. worldsim, 5. travelsim.

This is usually the cheapest option, but if you’re visiting numerous countries in a short space of time, a global SIM might be more suitable. In general, global SIMs work worldwide, allowing you to text, call, and browse the internet from wherever you are.

We’ve put together the following list of the best global SIM cards currently available. Included are affordable options for international calls and texts, as well as a few data-heavy choices.

• Want your company or services to be considered for this buyer’s guide? Please email your request to [email protected] with the URL of the buying guide in the subject line.
• We've featured the best SIM-only deals .

Reasons to buy

Reasons to avoid.

Knowroaming offers a selection of international SIM options for travelers in different parts of the world. For starters, you can purchase a SIM sticker ($14.99) that attaches to your current SIM card, effectively transforming it from a local to an international card.

Alternatively, a physical SIM ($9.99) is available. This can be recharged with credit or specific pre-paid plans. Knowroaming also offers an innovative QR code eSIM that can be used to connect to different mobile networks across the world.

Prices vary according to your location and the type of service you want. Global data plans start from $3.99 per day or $9.99 per three days. Alternatively, purchase a Global 5GB data plan for $99.99. A 5GB data plan confined to Europe, Asia, or the USA costs $39.99.

On the other hand, voice and text service is only available on a pay-as-you-go basis. Rates vary by location but generally range from $0.10 to $0.30 per SMS, $0.10 to $0.50 per MB of data, and $0.10 to $1.00 per minute of calling.

Flexiroam X offers a range of local and global SIM options for travelers around the world. Its global plans are on the expensive side, but the long-term data plans with up to 360 days’ validity are great value for the money.

Both physical and eSIM cards are available, providing flexibility for those who want to keep their local SIM as well. Data roaming is available in over 140 countries, and any unused data will be rolled over when you recharge.

Unfortunately, Flexiroam X is a data-only service. Voice and text services aren’t available, which could frustrate some people.

UK-based Three mobile offers an impressive suite of options for international travelers. For starters, all Three users with an advanced plan will benefit from free data roaming and free calls/texts to the UK. Prices vary significantly by plan.

Alternatively, those who need a large amount of data will benefit from Three’s Data Passport. It costs approximately $6.20 per day (£5 per day) and includes unlimited data in 90 countries. This is quite an expensive option, but it could suit business users and those who travel for short lengths of time.

WorldSIM is a global SIM card specialist that supports 200 countries across the world. When you order a free SIM card, it will come triple punched to fit micro, nano, and standard card slots. Delivery is free with an initial credit purchase of $65 or more.

On top of this, your WorldSIM card includes free USA and UK numbers. If required, you can pay an additional fee for a number from any of the 50 supported countries. Prices for data, calls, and texts vary by country. In general, though, these are quite affordable compared to those of many other international SIM services. Data-only bundles are also available in most countries, with prices starting from just $0.005 per MB.

TravelSIM has become a favorite among business travelers across the world. It offers international roaming in over 170 countries and boasts more than 4.5 million worldwide users. Even better, TravelSIM allows you to receive calls and texts for free from anywhere in the world.

Both physical and eSIM cards are available, providing flexibility for travelers of all demographics. Unfortunately, TravelSIM’s rates are extremely variable between countries. It’s important to check the prices for your destination before you travel, to ensure that you’re not paying a small fortune for your phone use.

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Daniel is a freelance copywriter with over six years experience writing for publications such as TechRadar, Tom’s Guide, and Hosting Review. He specializes in B2B and B2C tech and finance, with a particular focus on VoIP, website building, web hosting, and other related fields.

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The 10 Best International SIM Cards for 2024

05/12/2024 by Kristin Addis Leave a Comment

Embarking on a new adventure requires a lifeline to the digital world, whether you’re backpacking through Europe or island-hopping in Indonesia. The quest for the most reliable and affordable international SIM cards is vital, but it doesn’t have to be difficult.

These are my top tips and best international SIM card recommendations, based on my experiences using them around the world.

Table of Contents

What Are International SIM Cards?

An international SIM card is a traveler’s tool for communication, planning, and navigation, offering the ability to send texts and use data at local rates without the shock of roaming charges. These cards work across multiple countries and can be a more economical choice compared to local SIMs or the roaming options provided by your home carrier. They’re preloaded with credit, ready to use in an unlocked phone, providing a hassle-free bridge to staying in touch while exploring the world.

How Do International SIM Cards Work?

You have two options when getting a SIM abroad – a local physical card or an eSIM. If you have an iPhone 14 or newer, you likely can only use eSIMs. While I resisted this at first, I love the convenience now of landing in a new destination and having signal for navigation, emailing a hotel or vacation rental host, being able to order an Uber, right from touch down.

To use an international SIM card, your phone must be unlocked, meaning it’s not restricted to a single carrier’s network​. This is crucial, so make sure you get your phone unlocked before you leave for your trip.

These eSIM cards can also be conveniently topped up online, through an app, or with vouchers, negating the need to purchase a new one each time it runs out​. Security-wise, they are on par with local SIMs, equipped with necessary safety features like a security PIN and location area identity​.

The Dos and Don’ts of Purchasing an International SIM Card

When purchasing SIM cards for international travel, there are several best practices to keep in mind:

• Research before you go!  Look up the most recommended SIM card options for your destination. Online forums, travel blogs, and reviews can be valuable resources.
• Consider convenience and cost.  Make sure you evaluate the balance between the ease of obtaining the SIM card and its cost. Sometimes, paying a little extra up front can save time and hassle.
• Check if the SIM card is compatible with your phone and that your phone is unlocked.
• Don’t buy at the airport.  Airport kiosks can be convenient, but they often mean a premium price. It’s generally cheaper to purchase a SIM card in town or online.
• Ignore data packages.  Be mindful of the data packages available with the SIM card. Opt for a plan that suits your data usage to avoid extra charges.
• Don’t forget the top-up options.  Make sure there are easy ways to top up your card. Being able to add credit online or through an app is a plus, especially if you’re traveling for an extended period.

The Best International SIM Cards for Travelers

Ready to get connected worldwide? These are the tried and true SIM cards for travelers:

1. Instabridge

I recently tried  Instabridge  (sponsored) while traveling in the Azores and I was impressed! It was extremely easy to use, and I got it set up on my iPhone in under 5 minutes. The interface is straightforward and tells you how much data you have at any moment. The top-up was simple as well. My favorite thing about Instabridge is that you can use your physical SIM and your eSIM simultaneously.

Instabridge offers BMTM readers 10% off all of their data plans. Use “BMTM10” at checkout  on their website  to get the discount.

• Coverage : Over 190 countries, and geared toward a smarter, more cost-effective experience.
• Data packages : Data packages start at 1 GB for $2.50 and go up to 20 GB for $18. Not bad!
• Additional benefits : One time, monthly, and yearly packages are available, making it super flexible whether you’re hopping around from country to country or sticking around one place for a while.

We tested out Yesim (sponsored) on our recent trip to Norway and there are two things I like about this company – you can get an unlimited plan, and they have a global package (as well as regional ones). Some of the countries they cover also contract with multiple local carriers, meaning you’ll have the best possible coverage at any given time.

Yesim offers BMTM readers a 3 Euro account credit with code “Muse3”.

• Coverage : Over 190 countries, and geared toward a more data heavy and multi-country experience.
• Data packages : Data packages start at 1 GB for $1.59 for their US plans and go up to $8.80/GB for their global plans.
• Additional benefits : Discounts with automatic refill subscriptions, and the ability to go limitless with data.

3. Airalo / Discover+ Global eSIM

The  Airalo Discover Global eSIM , now known as Discover+, is a favorite for their lower cost options. I have used Airalo in Thailand and I love their regional cards, which is perfect for anyone on a trip spanning multiple countries. I grabbed their Southeast Asia regional card for our most recent trip to Singapore and Bali and will be using their European card for our upcoming European summer travels .

Airalo is also one of very few eSIMs that can offer a phone number as well for their global plan, which can be super helpful, however it’ll cost you $15 per 1GB. Still, it’s a feature most eSIMs lack.

• Coverage : 130 countries, allowing travelers to maintain mobile access in a wide array of locations
• eSIM compatibility : It offers the advantage of 5G NR access in various countries
• Data Packages : Alongside data, the Discover+ version includes a phone number with up to 200 minutes and 200 texts, enhancing its utility for travelers who need comprehensive communication options.
• Considerations : The price remains competitive, with the most extensive 20GB eSIM, valid for a full year, costing $89 USD. For those not needing calling or texting capabilities, the Discover version costs up to $20 USD less​.

A lot of people use GigSky , because its are among the easiest eSIMs to use and is the only one we know of that provides a cruise eSIM option . Anyone who has gone on a cruise knows that the data onboard can be eyewateringly expensive, and Gigsky offers a cruise package that is much more affordable, meant for both land and sea.

• Coverage : Global connectivity, with availability in 116 countries across North America, Europe, Latin America, the Caribbean, the Middle East/Africa, and Asia and the Pacific.
• Data packages : GigSky offers flexible plans, from short-term 1GB for 15 days starting at $12 to monthly data plans like 5GB worldwide for $60.
• Considerations : They don’t offer regional cards like some others on this list, but could be a great option for cruises in particular.

5. Orange Holiday Europe

Orange Holiday Europe  is a prepaid data plan tailored for tourists traveling across Europe , offering 20GB of high-speed data across 30 European countries. They also offer plans that allow calling and texting.

They offer physical SIM cards that can be delivered to your home address and used across Europe, and eSIMs. The only thing to note is the physical SIM comes with 30GB of data and costs $49, which is more than most people realistically need.

• Coverage : Available in 30 European countries, leveraging Orange’s wide-reaching network.
• eSIM compatibility : Offered as both a physical SIM card and an eSIM; the latter provides the same service instantly via email without the need for shipping.
• Data packages : For approximately $50, you receive 20GB of data, sometimes with special offers extending up to 30GB. The data is valid for 14 days, with the option to renew for an additional 14 days for around $30.
• Considerations : This is on the pricier and most data heavy end of this list.

Touted as the overall best international SIM card,  OneSim  provides SIM choices with one of the largest areas, with coverage in over 200 countries. They also offer the flexibility to buy data bundles and discounted plans for calls.

• Coverage : Over 200 countries globally, with a focus on versatility and reliability.
• Data packages : You can buy data bundles and discounted plans for calls, with casual data rates starting at $0.20/MB. Data packages are available by zone or region.
• Additional benefits : Customers receive two numbers: one European and one from the USA, UK, Australia, or Canada, with free incoming calls on the European number in many countries​.

While not the cheapest,  Holafly  is all about unlimited data eSIMs that can be used in a single country or in regions. To purchase, you select the number of days you’ll be in the country and they return a price based on unlimited data for those days, with prices varying by destination.

Some destinations make more sense than others, particularly if you know you’ll be mostly relying on your phone for data. 15 days unlimited in Mexico, for example, will set you back $47, but in the US where WiFi is widely available, I’m not sure that $60 for 10 days is worth it.

• Coverage : eSIM packages for over 100 countries, with an easy-to-use app for managing services.
• eSIMs : Suitable for modern smartphones with eSIM capabilities.
• Data packages : There are data-sharing capabilities for some destinations, which are convenient for couples or groups traveling together.
• Considerations : Unlimited packages only.

8. KnowRoaming

KnowRoaming  positions itself as a versatile travel SIM provider with a presence in over 200 countries and a range of plans to keep you connected on the go. Since these SIM cards work by locating and connecting to local networks in your destination, the quality of your coverage depends on how densely populated your area is. For that reason, I don’t recommend this one for off-the-beaten-path travel, especially if you’ll be out in nature.

• Coverage : Global service spanning more than 200 countries and destinations
• eSIM Ccompatibility : KnowRoaming offers traditional physical SIM cards, an innovative SIM sticker, and scannable eSIM codes for devices that support eSIM technology, like newer iPhone models and Google Pixel 3.
• Data packages : There are unlimited data plans with durations of 3 or 7 days, priced at $9.99 and $22.99, respectively. There are also specific eSIM data plans for regions like Europe and Asia, ranging from 1GB to 5GB, valid for 30 days.
• Considerations : KnowRoaming’s plans are primarily for data, with talk and text being available on a pay-as-you-go basis, requiring users to add credit to their accounts. These add-ons can be pricey, so this one is better if you’re a data-only person.

Keepgo  offers a streamlined, data-only service for travelers in the eSIM era, presenting a straightforward approach to staying connected. Though you can use Keepgo almost anywhere, it works particularly well in the USA and Europe.

• Coverage : Keepgo’s eSIM operates in over 120 countries, allowing for broad international use.
• eSIM compatibility : The service caters to the modern need for data connectivity without physical SIM cards, offering lifetime validity for purchased data bundles.
• Data packages : Options are available in set bundles of 1GB, 3GB, or 10GB, with the flexibility to top up via the Keepgo app.
• Considerations : Since Keepgo is data-only and doesn’t provide a phone number, users must rely on internet-based communication apps (WhatsApp, etc.). While the rates are a flat $10 per GB, this might be costlier than some regional eSIM offerings.

Nomad’s eSIM  has a global reach and a digital-first approach, which means there’s no need to fuss over physical SIM cards. There are plenty of reviews online, but my hesitation with this one is that it is one of the newest international eSIMs on the market. I’d be willing to try it, though!

• Coverage : Service in over 100 countries worldwide, with the ability to purchase regional plans or a global plan for frequent travelers
• eSIM compatibility : Compatible with eSIM-supported phones; installation is straightforward via QR code, and activation is on-demand, allowing users to pause and resume their plans as needed.
• Data packages : Nomad provides a range of data plans at competitive prices, starting as low as $2/GB, with no hidden fees. Plans range from 1GB to unlimited and from one day up to a year, giving you the flexibility to choose what best suits your travel needs.
• Considerations : While Nomad boasts high-speed and stable connections by utilizing the best local networks and allowing data sharing via hot spot, it offers data services only, not voice or text. You can only use eSIM-capable phones, and customer support is only available via email or the app, which may not offer immediate assistance.

Staying connected across borders has never been more accessible, which I love to see! Gone are the days of hunting down a SIM and being disconnected until I could find one, which I spent a decade doing prior to the advent of eSIMs. I have to say, this is so much easier and more convenient.

Now that there are so many options out there, the hardest part about staying connected on the road is no longer finding the next source of free Wi-Fi — it’s finding the best international SIM card for your specific needs! I’m honestly not mad about that, either.

Which one will you choose?

*Some links in this post are affiliate links that support us at no extra cost to you when you purchase through them. We have also been compensated by the noted companies to test and feature their cards.

About Kristin Addis

Kristin Addis is the founder and CEO of Be My Travel Muse, a resource for female travelers all around the world since 2012. She's traveled solo to over 65 countries and has brought over 150 women on her all-female adventure tours from Botswana to the Alaskan tundra.

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5 Best International SIM Cards for Travel in 2024

Home | Travel | 5 Best International SIM Cards for Travel in 2024

International SIM cards let you use mobile data abroad and, in some cases, make and receive calls while traveling without accruing hefty roaming fees.

I never travel without getting one of them first, because if you use your usual phone plan outside your country, you will have to pay for roaming, and that will drastically increase your phone bill. For this reason, it is better to use a global travel SIM when traveling.

For all our adventures abroad, we use the  Holafly eSIM cards , which offer unlimited data in many countries at a fairly reasonable price. While these SIM cards don’t include calls in most countries, they often have unlimited data so that you can make voice and video calls with apps like Messenger, Skype, and WhatsApp. If that sounds good to you, and you want to get a SIM card for your next trip, don’t forget to get a discount on Holafly .

5% OFF your international eSIM card

While we’re super satisfied with the international eSIMs from Holafly, I’ll share a few more options in this guide, including physical SIM cards for international travel . I also recommend reading our guide on how to travel cheaply and taking advantage of all the travel discounts available . After all, your phone bill is just one of the things you can save on while exploring the world!

International SIM cards, the best way to avoid roaming

There are several worldwide SIM cards that let you have Internet while traveling . In this guide, I’ll explain the different options and share other tips to help you find the perfect fit:

• International SIM card prices

Best international SIM cards

How much data should an international sim card have, is there a global sim card that works in every country, finding a global sim that’s compatible with your device.

• How to install a SIM card for international travel

Global data SIM cards are great for leisurely trips, but if you’re traveling for work or school and need to have your laptop or tablet connected to the internet, you’re better off getting a portable Wi-Fi device . We use the Solis router from Skyroam , and it really comes in handy !

Global SIM card prices

We’ve been using the international prepaid SIMs from Holafly for years, but there are other options like SimOptions , Airalo , KeepGo , and Knowroaming . If you need help deciding which one to get, check out the table below to compare global SIM card prices :

To sum up, Holafly is the only international SIM with unlimited data in almost every destination, so it’s a super convenient option. That said, depending on where you’re going, it may not be the cheapest choice. Another thing to consider is that Holafly only has eSIM cards, so if your phone isn’t compatible with digital cards, you’ll need to get a physical card, such as the one from SimOptions .

To help you choose the best international SIM card for your needs, I’m sharing the details for each of the top options below.

1. Holafly , an international SIM with unlimited data

First, Holafly is the best international data SIM card , offering unlimited data plans for most countries at a pretty affordable price. This allows you to browse the Internet, post on social media, use Google Maps, and stay in touch with loved ones via messaging apps like Skype, Telegram, and WhatsApp.

Something you should keep in mind is that Holafly’s plans are data-only, so you can’t make or receive calls abroad (the only exception is the international SIM cards for Europe ). However, this isn’t an issue since you can use apps like Skype and Telegram to make voice and video calls.

Moreover, Holafly’s cards are totally digital , so you don’t have to worry about removing your usual SIM and inserting a new one into your device. All you have to do is scan the QR code in your email and follow the installation instructions . It helps to print out the QR code or download it to another device so you can scan it on your mobile phone. Also, make sure your device is compatible with the global SIM card by checking here .

Most destinations have international SIM plans for five days or more, so it’s easy to find one that suits your trip. This year, we’ve traveled around the world and visited more than 10 countries, and Holafly has always given us great service . You can read more about our experience in our Holafly review .

Of course, it wouldn’t be fair if I didn’t tell you about the disadvantages of using Holafly. The main drawback is that you can’t share data with other devices , so each traveler must buy their own international SIM card . Despite this, I still think Holafly is the best option for most travellers.

Also, don’t forget that you can get a discount on your Holafly eSIM!

2. SimOptions , the best physical international SIM card for travelers

If your phone isn’t compatible with eSIM technology, then the physical international SIM card from SimOptions is the best alternative. That said, it’s worth noting that SimOptions offers both conventional SIM cards and digital international SIM cards .

In addition, the company has a wide variety of country cards with different validity durations and amounts of data. SimOptions also allows data sharing, but the cards have limited data, so it’ll be much easier to run out of GBs.

To buy an international SIM from SimOptions, just order through this link . Physical cards take about three business days to arrive, and I recommend ordering in advance so you can install it and sort out any potential issues. Installation is super simple since all you have to do is insert the SIM into your device’s card slot and follow the on-screen instructions.

While SimOptions is a great choice, it’s not my favorite. I prefer to have an international SIM card with unlimited data , like the one from Holafly . With SimOptions, the cards typically include 10 GB or 30 GB of data, which is enough for about a two-week trip if you limit your videocalls and social media usage.

3. Airalo , another popular international SIM to avoid roaming fees

Airalo is another way to avoid roaming with an international SIM . Like Holafly, all the cards from Airalo are virtual, so you must be sure your device is compatible with eSIM technology. The installation process for this global SIM is similar to Holafly in that you must scan a QR code that gets sent to your email. Just follow the activation instructions, and you’re ready to go.

The main benefit of Airalo is that it offers international SIMs for several countries , so if you’re visiting multiple destinations during your trip, you can get by on just one SIM card.

All of Airalo’s plans include limited data and, depending on the destination, validity for 7, 15, or 30 days. If you plan to share your data with other travelers or devices, be aware that you’ll run out of data pretty quickly.

Weighing the pros and cons of Airalo global plans, I think the price per GB is quite high. It could be better to buy a international SIM card  from Holafly for each country you visit.

4. KeepGo , another global SIM card for your trip overseas

KeepGo offers prepaid international SIM cards , but it works a little differently than the others that I mentioned. In this case, you pay for a set amount of data, and the card is valid for one year within a given geographic area.

Also, KeepGo only has virtual international SIM cards , so you should check your device’s compatibility before buying one.

This company isn’t my first choice since the price per GB is more expensive compared to other companies. You can see the prices and data amounts in the chart below:

5. KnowRoaming , another international SIM card for foreign travel

The last company I’ll talk about is KnowRoaming , which has digital international SIM cards . You’ll receive your card via email immediately after purchasing, and all you have to do is scan the QR code to install it on your device. Of course, your phone must be compatible with eSIM technology to use the cards from this company.

While KnowRoaming’s customer support is available 24 hours a day, the company has some drawbacks that you should know about. First, the price per GB is quite high compared to other options. Secondly, all of its cards have limited data, so it may not be a great deal depending on how much data you consume.

Finally, KnowRoaming doesn’t have global SIMs in as many countries as Holafly and SimOptions . You can buy their SIM card with worldwide coverage , if necessary, but this also has limited data, so it may end up costing you more money.

One of the most common questions when looking for an international mobile SIM card is how much data it should have. To give you a rough idea, I created a comparison chart showing common apps and phone uses and how much data each one consumes, taking into account my average consumption while traveling:

As you can see, voice and video calls consume the most mobile data. If you only use your global SIM card for things like Google Maps and search, or to post on social media, a prepaid international SIM with limited data could be fine. Of course, keep in mind that if you plan on sharing data with a travel companion, you’ll end up using up your data twice as fast, so a limited data plan could fall short.

If you want to make calls with family and friends while traveling, an international SIM with unlimited data , like one from Holafly , is your best bet. You could also try setting a daily limit on your data consumption, turning off your device’s data when not in use, and, when possible, using the Wi-Fi in hotels, restaurants, and other public places.

What is the best international SIM card for travel?

After comparing the best global SIM cards on the market, I think the cards from Holafly come out on top. Most of Holafly’s plans offer unlimited data, so you can use your favorite apps and make calls without worrying about running out of GBs.

Just remember that Holafly only has virtual cards, so if your device isn’t compatible with eSIM technology, you can’t use them. The next best option is SimOptions , which offers physical and digital international SIM cards . For most countries, the lowest data plan includes 10 GB for 14 days.

Both Holafly and SimOptions have 24/7 customer support, so you can contact them if you run into any issues.

International eSIMs vs. physical international SIM cards

Whether it’s an international eSIM or a convenient international SIM card , it will have the same function. So, in that sense, one option isn’t better than the other. It’s the format of the card that you must consider since virtual international SIM cards use a newer technology that’s not compatible with all devices.

As long as your phone is compatible, eSIMs are much more convenient and practical since you don’t have to remove your usual SIM card to use them. In addition, you can buy an eSIM anytime, even if you’re already traveling, since it arrives via email. As a result, eSIM cards reduce plastic use and transportation, making them more environmentally friendly. This is why I believe that in the future, all international SIM cards will be digital .

If your phone isn’t compatible with eSIM technology, the best option is to get a physical international global SIM like the ones from SimOptions .

Only Airalo and KnowRoaming have international SIM cards that work for all countries (or almost every country). Holafly also has some multi-country cards that include several countries in Europe, Latin America, Asia, North America, and the Caribbean. So, if you’re going to visit several countries, it may be worth considering this type of global SIM card .

Holafly’s multi-country SIM, a global eSIM that works in many countries

Holafly offers several multi-country cards, which are perfect if you plan on visiting several countries back to back. It’s a virtual international SIM card , so all you have to do is scan the QR code in your email to connect to the mobile network automatically.

Below, you can see the different global SIMs you can get through Holafly:

Airalo global SIM, an international SIM card you can use anywhere

Airalo also offers an international prepaid SIM that works in almost every country. Once you install the card, you’ll automatically connect to the best mobile network in that country.

However, unlike Holafly , Airalo’s worldwide SIM cards have very limited data, so it’s easy to run out, even if you only use basic applications. I recommend checking Airalo’s data limits to determine if it’s enough mobile data for your trip and phone use. It may be worth buying different international SIMs from Holafly for shorter durations as you visit each country.

KnowRoaming global SIM, another worldwide SIM card

KnowRoaming is another company that has SIM cards with coverage in several countries . However, with this card, you would have the same problem as with Airalo: very limited data. Depending on what you’re going to use your worldwide SIM for, it may not have enough data, so it may be better to buy several Holafly cards of shorter duration.

SIM cards for Mexico

The best SIM cards for Mexico

SIM cards for Egypt

Best SIM cards for Egypt

SIM cards for Japan

Best SIM cards for Japan

SIM cards for Andorra

Best SIM cards for Andorra

SIM cards for Indonesia

Best SIM cards for Indonesia

SIM cards for Thailand

Best SIM cards for Thailand

SIM cards for Switzerland

Best SIM cards for Switzerland

SIM cards for Europe

Best SIM cards for Europe

Pros and cons of using an international SIM card for travel

Using a SIM card for international travel has its benefits and drawbacks, although I think the pros outweigh the cons:

Buying a global SIM card may add an extra cost to your trip, but it’s worth it, especially when you factor in how expensive roaming is. Personally, I wouldn’t travel abroad without an international SIM that lets me connect to the Internet and stay in touch with loved ones. I’ve been using the global SIM from Holafly for years now, and if you decide to get one of your own, use the 5% discount.

How to choose an international SIM card

Before you get a new SIM card for international travel , it’s important to check its compatibility with your phone and the amount of data it offers .

In the case of international eSIMs , they’re not compatible with all phones. Holafly, Airalo, KeepGo, and KnowRoaming only offer global eSIMs , while SimOptions has both digital and physical international SIM cards .

As for data, the amount offered by each card varies. Some international SIM cards have unlimited data , while others have limited data that wouldn’t even be enough for regular phone use. Holafly is the only company that offers unlimited data, with just a few exceptions, making it the most convenient option in this regard.

Another thing to consider when getting an international SIM card for travel is customer support. Holafly and SimOptions offer 24/7 customer service via chat, so you can get help from them no matter where you are in the world. KeepGo and KnowRoaming have limited customer support hours, while Airalo doesn’t offer this service at all.

Taking all these factors into account, I highly recommend Holafly as the best international SIM overall, although SimOptions is the best in terms of compatibility .

It’s crucial that you check your phone’s compatibility before buying a global SIM card . You should also make sure that your phone is unlocked . Otherwise, you won’t be able to use any kind of international SIM card .

When it comes to compatibility, be aware that all new phones accept virtual international SIM cards , but older models may only be compatible with physical SIMs. You can check here to see a complete list of phone models that are compatible with virtual data cards.

Again, physical SIMs are usually compatible with all devices. However, if your phone doesn’t have a dual SIM slot, you’ll have to remove your usual SIM so you can insert the international SIM card . In the case of SimOptions, they offer three SIM card formats: Standard, Micro, and Nano, so you’re sure to find one that works for you .

How to activate a SIM card for international travel

If you have a physical SIM, you must first remove your usual SIM card so you can insert the new one. Of course, if your device has a dual SIM slot, you can have both SIM cards inserted at the same time. Once you insert the global SIM card , you’re ready to use it.

If you have an international eSIM , scan the QR code on the device on which you want to have mobile data. I recommend printing out the QR code or downloading it to another device with a screen.

Here is how to activate an international SIM card on an Android device:

• Go to Settings > Connections >  SIM Manager > Add SIM .
• Scan the QR code , which you should have printed or downloaded to another device.
• Follow the instructions and steps that will appear on the screen.
• Open Settings > Connections > SIM Manager
• In preferred SIM, click on Mobile data and select the eSIM to install .
• Go to Connections and enter Mobile networks to activate Data Roaming and for the eSIM to be fully activated.

For those with an iOS device, here are the activation instructions:

• Go to Settings > Mobile network > Add data plan .
• Open Settings > Configuration > Mobile network
• Select the eSIM to install and activate Data Roaming .

In just a few simple steps, you can install your global SIM card and start using it to access the Internet. It’s a good idea to do this before your trip so you can contact the company’s customer support team if you run into any issues.

FAQs – International SIM cards for travel

Just in case you have any other doubts, here are the answers to the most common questions about international SIM cards :

What is an international SIM card?

An international SIM card is a SIM card that allows you to access the Internet abroad without roaming. Some of these cards also include limited minutes for incoming or outgoing calls.

Do I need a SIM card for international travel?

You’ll need a global travel SIM to avoid roaming if you travel to a country not included by your phone provider.

Do international SIM cards work in any country?

No. Typically, an international SIM card only works in one country unless you have a multi-country or global SIM card .

Is my mobile device compatible with a global SIM card?

A physical global SIM card is usually compatible with all types of devices (just make sure it’s unlocked). On the other hand, a global eSIM is only compatible with certain devices. Before making a purchase, I recommend checking your phone’s compatibility here .

What is the best international SIM card?

The best option is the international SIM with unlimited data from Holafly .

Can I share data with an international SIM card?

Normally, if an international travel SIM has limited data, you can share it with other devices. However, Holafly eSIM cards have unlimited data and don’t allow sharing.

Can I keep my phone number with a global international SIM card?

Yes, you can keep your regular phone number with an international SIM card .

Where can I buy an international SIM card?

You can buy a global SIM card through Holafly , SimOptions , Airalo , KeepGo , and KnowRoaming .

What should I do with my usual SIM when using a global SIM card?

If you’re getting a physical global SIM card , and your device doesn’t have a dual SIM slot, you must remove your usual SIM card. Keep it in a safe place so you don’t lose it while traveling. If your device has a dual SIM slot, just insert the international SIM into the second slot.

What should I do if I have issues with my international SIM card while overseas?

If you have problems with your prepaid international SIM , contact the company’s customer support team. In the case of Holafly and SimOptions, their customer service team is available via chat 24/7.

How much data should a global SIM card have?

The amount of data for an international SIM depends on what you’re going to use the Internet for. To give you an example, for a 7-day trip, you’ll need about 5-10 GB per person to use Google Maps, search the Internet, access social networks, and use WhatsApp to send messages and make calls.

That’s everything you should know about SIM cards for foreign travel , where to buy them, and how much data you’ll need. If you have any other questions or want to share your experience with using a global SIM card , leave me a comment below. I’d love to hear from you!

Stay safe, and enjoy your trip!

Ascen Aynat

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Traveling to Multiple Countries? These Are The Best International Prepaid SIM Cards With Worldwide Coverage

Jan Watermann

As a digital nomad, Jan is an expert in cross-border money transfers and internationalization. At Monito, he shares his knowledge by writing content geared primarily towards a German-speaking audience.

Byron Mühlberg

Monito's Managing Editor, Byron has spent several years writing extensively about financial- and migration-related topics.

Links on this page, including products and brands featured on ‘Sponsored’ content, may earn us an affiliate commission. This does not affect the opinions and recommendations of our editors.

Are you finally planning that around-the-world trip you've dreamed about for years? Or perhaps you'll soon be crossing several borders on your next business assignment? Whatever your reasons for making a multi-country trip, you probably don't want to go overseas without having a reliable internet connection from the moment you touch down.

However, you'll probably already know that roaming with your local SIM card outside your home country can quickly become surprisingly expensive. Fortunately for you, international prepaid SIM cards can be used almost anywhere in the world. In this short guide, we compare five of the best options for accessing the web while traveling abroad to multiple countries!

Are you in a rush? Here are the key facts of this article:

• There are many international SIM card providers out there to give you an affordable alternative to local SIM cards if you travel to several countries abroad.
• Airalo Discover+ offers what we consider to be the best global prepaid SIM card.
• If you're traveling to a country that's not one of the 127 that Airalo covers, we recommend Flexiroam as an alternative, followed by WorldSIM .
• If you're looking for unlimited data, then Holafly is your best bet.

Best International Prepaid SIM Cards

• 01. What options are there for accessing the internet abroad? scroll down
• 02. Best eSIM overall: Airalo scroll down
• 03. Best eSIM for unlimited data: Airalo scroll down
• 04. Best for affordability: Flexiroam scroll down
• 05. Best eSIM for number of countries: WorldSIM scroll down
• 06. Another eSIM alternative: TravelSIM scroll down
• 07. FAQ about SIM cards with worldwide coverage scroll down

What Options Are There For Accessing Internet Abroad?

It should go without saying that mobile data is an essential travel companion when going abroad. Without a reliable internet connection, things like navigation, booking transport (e.g. hailing an Uber or catching a tram connection), communicating with hotels, sending photos to your friends and family back home, and other everyday tasks become much trickier and require careful planning in advance.

All told, there are two sensible options for having access to mobile data in foreign countries:

Option 1: Local SIM Cards

Until a few years ago, this was the only way to get cheap internet abroad. Whether it's worthwhile for you today depends on how many countries you're traveling to and how long you're planning to stay in each. For example, if you're setting out on a cruise that stops in eight countries for only 24 hours each, it's generally not worth buying a new SIM card at each port. However, if you spend a longer period (i.e., longer than a week) in each country, buying a new SIM card could be a cheap and accessible option.

Since SIM cards usually have a minimum validity period of seven days, multi-country global SIM cards (which we touch on below) tend to be the cheaper choice for stays of fewer than seven days per country.

Option 2: Global SIM Cards

Some global SIM cards offer internet almost anywhere in the world. Generally, you have a fixed mobile data quota that you can use in different countries, so using the SIM card in just one country or several countries on the same trip makes practically no difference.

SIM cards with worldwide validity are usually considerably more expensive than local SIM cards, which are only valid for just one country. However, there is one key advantage: you only have to buy one SIM card . So, if you stay in individual countries for fewer than seven days, a global SIM card is often cheaper than a local alternative. Global SIMs also offer a nifty convenience factor: you can access the internet as soon as you arrive without going to a local retailer to buy a SIM card.

💳 Planning to use your credit or debit card on your next trip? You'll probably pay much more than you think in hidden exchange rate fees every time you tap your card or withdraw cash. Get a free global account and debit card with Revolut to avoid these fees and save money. Check out our ranking of the best prepaid travel debit cards to find out more about how you can save.

Global SIM cards come in two forms: physical SIMs, which you can buy or order online from a retailer before your trip, or eSIMs, which you can purchase, download, and install right into your smartphone. It's this second category that the top providers we compare below fall into:

Airalo Discover+: Best Global eSIM

Airalo offers what we believe is the best option for global mobile data . The Discover+ eSIM offers internet in 127 countries, providing coverage in many parts of the planet. Discover+ eSIM durations are between seven days and 365 days. We're particularly impressed by the fair price-performance ratio (compared to other providers, Airalo is often somewhat cheaper, with prices between $9 and $69).

The maximum data volume of 20 GB with a term of 365 days is also appealing. This provides significantly more data volume than other providers we discussed do in their data packages. In particular, if you're traveling the world for longer periods, you'll almost certainly get your money's worth. If you like, you can also purchase telephone minutes and text messages with Airalo Discover+ (however, as this is considerably more expensive, we recommend it only if you really need it).

Considering Airalo? Take advantage of the following special offers until the 31st of December 2024:

• New customer? Use the code   MONITO15   to claim a 15% discount on all Airalo eSIMs.  Ts & Cs  apply.
• Returning customer? Use the code  MONITO10  to claim a 10% discount on all Airalo eSIMs.

Go to Airalo now to get started! ✨

Holafly: Best For Unlimited Data

Holafly  is another trusted eSIM service which also offers eSIMs with global coverage. The special thing about Holafly is that it only offers packages with unlimited data volume  for dozens of countries worldwide. Although these packages cost quite a bit more than the smaller Airalo packages, in return, they offer the certainty that you'll never use up your data (although, in principle, Holafly has the right to throttle your use if you're using a very large amount of data).

Holafly's packages cost between $19 and $99 and are valid from five to 90 days. Like Airalo, Holafly also works with local networks while you're abroad, giving you blazing-fast data pretty much wherever you are.

Although it's a great package if you want uncapped access to the web, it's worth remembering that most travelers don't normally need such a large sum of data. Another disadvantage is that Holafly doesn't offer a complete global package, only regional packages for the main regions of the globe (namely Europe, Asia, North America, Latin America, and the Caribbean), so if your international trip will take you between continents, then we recommend other options on this list like Airalo.

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Flexiroam: Best For Price

Flexiroam is one of the most attractive providers of international eSIMs on the market. By purchasing an eSIM, you can access Flexiroam's data mobile data in over 160 countries. The packages range in price from $12.99 to $81 for 15 to 360 days and 500 MB to 10 GB. Even though Flexiroam is slightly more expensive than Airalo, it can be a great alternative nonetheless. In particular, if you're traveling to a country not covered by Airalo, Flexiroam may be the better option.

One point of criticism is the fact that only data packages are offered; phone minutes (talk time) and text messages cannot be purchased with Flexiroam. For most users, however, mobile data is normally perfectly sufficient when traveling abroad.

WorldSIM: Best For Coverage

WorldSIM is an eSIM provider offering mobile data in an impressive 195 different countries , taking the cake when it comes to raw coverage (although it's also possible to buy data packages only for specific regions instead of buying a full global package). Like TravelSIM, the term is limited to 30 days, after which the data package must be renewed.

In terms of price, WorldSIM is slightly cheaper than TravelSIM but is rather on the expensive side compared to Airalo and Flexiroam. The costs range from $27.57 to $66.23 for 1 to 5 GB. Phone credit and SMS can also be purchased optionally for an additional price.

Since WorldSIM clearly isn't the best option in terms of price, we only recommend it if you travel in countries that WorldSIM exclusively covers. In most other countries, however, Airalo and Flexiroam are the better options.

TravelSIM: Interesting Alternative

Last but not least, TravelSIM takes a different approach to other providers on this list, like Airalo and Flexiroam. Here, the available countries are divided into six different regions. If you buy an international SIM card from TravelSIM, it'll only be valid in the region you purchased it for. If you want to access the internet outside the region, you'll need to purchase a new package altogether.

TravelSIM's data packages are also valid for a maximum of 30 days and must then be renewed after the month is up. Customers can choose between 500 MB and 5 GB of mobile data (unfortunately, prices which are very high in our eyes). While 5 GB costs $35 with Airalo for 127 countries and 60 days of validity, TravelSIM customers have to pay between $44 (in Europe) and $175 (in 'Zone B') for the same data volume but with only 30 days of validity. Credit for phone calls and text messages can be added if needed with per-minute billing.

Overall, we think TravelSIM is an interesting international SIM card provider, but it's significantly more expensive than the competition. Therefore, we'd only recommend TravelSIM if you're traveling to a country that's only covered by this provider and none other on the list.

Best International SIM Cards For Worldwide Use

In the chart below, we compare the five providers above side-by-side:

Other Alternatives

Without a doubt, there were a few global SIM card providers that we couldn't delve into for this article. However, if you're interested and ready to do the research, it's relatively easy to compare these providers for yourself. As a rule, you should look at three factors:

• Availability (i.e., is the data package available in the countries I'm traveling to?)
• Data volume (i.e., is the amount of data enough for my needs?)
• Costs (i.e., which provider offers me the cheapest package?)

International SIM card providers offer very similar services for most countries. As a rule of thumb, they work together with the market-leading network network cariers, so the reception you get while abroad rarely differs at all. If you have the time to research the best network providers in the countries you're traveling to, you can also select your global SIM card based on this.

Recap: Best International Prepaid SIM Cards

In our opinion, Airalo offers the best global eSIM card on the market. With its Discover+ eSIM package, you can access mobile data in most countries worldwide with fair and transparent prices and conditions. Airalo also offers an excellent app that lets you order, manage, and renew your eSIM on the go. In our opinion, you should only consider another alternative if the Airalo Discover+ eSIM doesn't cover the country you are traveling to.

FAQ About SIM Cards With Worldwide Coverage

It largely depends on how long you're planning to travel for. For longer trips especially, international SIM cards can very much be worth it, saving you a lot over other options like roaming! In our opinion, Airalo is the best international eSIM provider which combines affordability, quality, and coverage like none other.

No, you don't need a SIM card for international travel, but having one can give you a lot of peace of mind while traveling. After all, without a reliable internet connection, navigation, booking transport (e.g. hailing an Uber or catching a tram connection), communicating with hotels, sending photos to your friends and family back home, and other everyday tasks of a traveler become much more difficult.

The cost of international SIM card packages varies dramatically depending on the provider and countries chosen, as well as whether talk time and text are included too. On the cheap end, they can be as low as $9 for a single-gigabyte package and inflate all the way up to $180 for a more comprehensive package with a longer validity period.

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International SIM Card

Provides global coverage with simple talk, text and data rates for your international travel across the USA, Canada, Mexico, Europe, Asia, Australia, South America & more.

International SIM Card for Calls, Texts and Data

Our full-service travel SIM Card provides coverage in over 135+  countries across 340 networks .

A handy travel SIM that no one should be without, allowing you to add credit and prepaid data plan, with up to 90% savings on international roaming charges. Your Gosim International SIM is pre-loaded, making it easy for you to stay connected and save up to 90%.

Limited time special offer:Buy 3GB or bigger data plan and get 1GB for free! Valid for Zone A, Asia, Europe and Europe+ data plans.

$10 Credit

Your SIM contains $10 credit for talk, text and data. Add extra credit:

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65+ Countries

110+ Countries

32+ Countries

35+ Countries

13+ Countries

10+ Countries

Asia Best price data in Asia

Europe Europe

Europe+ Europe, USA, Russia

Offer Ideal for the Nordics and Russia

Turkey Best price data in Turkey

Vietnam Best price in Vietnam

Zone A 65+ popular countries including Europe

Zone B 110+ countries further extending Zone A

• Afghanistan
• Antigua and Barbuda
• Bosnia and Herzegovina
• British Virgin Islands
• Burkina Faso
• Cayman Islands
• Central African Republic
• Congo Democratic Republic
• Cook Islands
• Cote d’Ivoire
• Czech Republic
• Dominican Republic
• El Salvador
• Equatorial Guinea
• Falkland Islands
• Faroe Islands
• French Guiana
• French Polynesia
• Guinea-Bissau
• Isle of Man
• Liechtenstein
• Netherlands
• Netherlands Antilles
• New Caledonia
• New Zealand
• North Macedonia
• Papua New Guinea
• Philippines
• Puerto Rico
• Russian Federation
• Saint Kitts and Nevis
• Saint Lucia
• Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
• Saudi Arabia
• Sierra Leone
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• St Kitts and Nevis
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• Switzerland
• Trinidad and Tobago
• Turkmenistan
• Turks and Caicos Islands
• United Arab Emirates
• United Kingdom
• United States
• United States Virgin Islands
• Vatican City

Best Network Technology

Access over 340 networks across 210+ destinations. Your Prepaid International Travel SIM Card will automatically navigate to the best network, providing you with industry-leading technology to boost your call experience.

Get A Global Number

Your Prepaid International SIM Card comes with a European phone number, starting with +372.

Free incoming calls and SMS

Gosim offers free incoming calls in over 135 countries. Free incoming SMS in all countries.

Reduce roaming charges up to 90%

Low-cost calls, data and SMS worldwide – reduce roaming fees by up to 85%. Save even more with our data plans.

No Hidden Fees.

Our Global International SIM Card has no connection fees – $0, no monthly fees – $0, and no hidden charges – $0. You pay for what you need and never get any surprises!

Add More Funds Anytime

You can easily recharge your SIM online 24/7. Unused airtime and credit will be valid for 18 months.

RATES AND COVERAGE

The prepaid International SIM Card will provide you with coverage in over 210 destinations   across 340 networks, including airlines, cruise ships and satellite networks.

Popular destination countries with coverage include:

Tell us which countries you plan to visit:

FREE Bonus SIM Card

Data usage is billed in 100KB increments.

INTERNATIONAL DATA PLANS

Purchase one of our prepaid data plans to get highly discounted data rates, enabling you to cheaply access the internet and download data almost anywhere in the world! You can save up to 90% with a Prepaid Data Plans.

ADD AIRTIME CREDIT

It is quick and easy to add more pre-paid credit anytime  online . With our travel SIM card, we’ve got you covered worldwide.

TRAVEL SIM INFORMATION

One size fits all devices.

SIM User Guide

Data Plans – 250MB Plan: 14 days (time allowance starts once you choose to activate) – 500MB, 1GB and 2GB Plans: 30 days (time allowance starts once you choose to activate)

All results are shown in US Dollars .

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Attention, Travelers: Now Is the Best Time to Switch to eSIM

The digital version of the SIM card, included on many newer phones, is set to become prevalent. It also offers affordable cellular data abroad.

By Brian X. Chen

Brian X. Chen is The Times’s lead consumer technology writer and the author of Tech Fix , a column about the social implications of the tech we use.

As vacation season looms, now is as good a time as ever to bite the bullet and become familiar with a smartphone feature that many of us have ignored for years: the eSIM, the digital version of the SIM card that carries your phone number.

Among many benefits, eSIM technology is a boon for travelers, and pretty soon we will all be using it because the physical SIM card will be no more. Let me explain.

Last year, Apple eliminated the SIM card tray from the iPhone 14 to free up space. That means the SIM card, which acts as a key that connects your phone with cellular networks, is being phased out for Apple phones.

Where Apple leads, others typically follow, so you can expect handset makers like Samsung and Google to also go all-in on eSIM — a digitized SIM card embedded into the phone’s computer chip that you can activate with any cellular network’s service plan.

“Whether we like it or not, it’s coming,” Roger Entner, a telecom expert and founder of the research firm Recon Analytics, said about eSIM technology.

But this move isn’t really all about Apple. The Federal Communications Commission also favors eSIM technology , because it makes it easier for people to switch to a different carrier by using software instead of going to a store for a physical SIM card. And the technology has security benefits: If your phone is stolen, thieves can’t remove an eSIM to hijack your phone number and commit identity theft, as they could with a physical SIM card.

Most important, the experience of using eSIM data plans for travel has greatly improved. About five years ago, eSIM data plans for international roaming were overpriced, and cell service was sometimes unreliable. But in the last year, I’ve tested a few eSIM services when I left the country and found them to be cost-effective and zippy.

As is always the case with new technology, there are downsides. Activating a data plan on a foreign network with an eSIM is not as straightforward as sticking a different SIM card into your phone. The process is especially challenging for those who are less familiar with technology, putting the onus on more tech savvy companions to help them make the switch.

There are also privacy concerns. Many eSIM service providers offer apps that collect your data for tracking purposes.

You can use my experience as a template for navigating the inevitable transition to eSIM. Recently, I tried eSIM data plans when traveling with several members of my family and acted as their tech sherpa through the switch.

Step 1: Pick an eSIM

The main reason to use eSIM services for travel is to save money. The big U.S. carriers, like AT&T and Verizon, offer international roaming options, including $10 day passes for using your phone in foreign countries. The costs quickly add up for a two-week trip with family.

In contrast, an eSIM data package that can be used for the entirety of your trip costs a few dollars. The tricky part is choosing an eSIM service provider because there are many, and most are unfamiliar brands like Airalo, GigSky and Flexiroam. (Apple provides a list of eSIM service providers on its website.)

For a recent weeklong trip to Montreal, I researched travel blogs and picked Nomad , which offered a gigabyte of data that could be used for seven days in Canada for $7. I had the option to activate the plan with Nomad’s app or by following setup instructions on the company’s website. The app had high reviews in the App Store, so I clicked the download button.

Step 2: Activate the eSIM Service

A nice thing about eSIM is that you can buy a plan and set up the service on your phone well in advance of a trip, then activate it when you arrive at your destination. After you buy a plan, the eSIM service provider sends you a list of instructions.

The Nomad app showed a list of steps. In the iPhone’s settings app, I clicked on the cellular menu, clicked “Add eSIM” and typed in an activation code. As I crossed the border into Canada, I went back into the cellular settings, selected the Nomad phone line and toggled on the option for “Turn on this line.”

(If you still use a physical SIM card for your domestic phone line, you need not remove it. In the phone’s cellular settings, you just switch off the service for your primary line to avoid roaming charges.)

After I picked this eSIM plan, I shared the Nomad app with my wife and brother-in-law, who each followed the instructions to set it up by themselves. I didn’t know how to advise my mother-in-law, who never downloads apps, how to set up the plan, so I did it for her.

Herein lies the real problem: Less tech-inclined folks are probably not going to know how to use eSIM services. When my mother-in-law went on a trip to Hong Kong alone and I wasn’t nearby to set up the service for her, I told her to pay for AT&T’s international roaming plan and find a store later to buy a SIM card from a Hong Kong phone carrier.

Terry Guo, a chief product officer of LotusFlare, the company that developed Nomad, agreed that the main demographic of travelers using eSIM service plans comprised younger, more tech-savvy people.

“We are doing a lot of work in the app to make this simpler,” he said.

Optional (but Important) Step: Protect Your Privacy

Another downside to eSIM services is privacy-related. All the eSIM service providers I researched in Apple’s App Store said in their app descriptions that they did some tracking of users across different apps and websites.

Toni Toikka, the chief executive of Alekstra, a company that helps businesses reduce their wireless bills, underlined the importance of safeguarding personal information from eSIM providers. He said many of these companies, known as mobile virtual network operators, had struggled to generate profit.

“One way they think they’ll make money is selling your information,” Mr. Toikka said. “That’s why you should always opt out of any tracking. You shouldn’t sell yourself for pennies on a dollar.”

Mr. Guo said that the Nomad app contained Google’s analytics technology to see how people were using the app, and that people who logged into the app with their Facebook accounts could also be tracked by Facebook.

A simple workaround to data collection is to avoid logging into an app with third-party sites like Facebook and Google. Apple users can also click “Ask app not to track” when opening an eSIM app for the first time.

Android users don’t have the option to ask apps not to track them, so their best option is to buy the eSIM plan from the company’s website and set up the service without downloading the app.

Bottom Line

Overall, the pros of eSIM outweigh the cons. Traveling with a smartphone with SIM cards wasn’t relaxing because you needed to carry a pin to eject the card tray; plus you had to make sure not to lose the tiny SIM card.

When returning from a trip using eSIM services, all you have to do is go back into the phone’s settings app and switch your domestic phone line back on. That simplicity and peace of mind make eSIM worth the hassle.

Brian X. Chen is the lead consumer technology writer for The Times. He reviews products and writes Tech Fix , a column about the social implications of the tech we use. Before joining The Times in 2011, he reported on Apple and the wireless industry for Wired. More about Brian X. Chen

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Dream More, Travel Later

Travelling and wandering the world is quite the adventure, but sharing memories and staying in touch with those who matter shouldn’t come at a cost. That's where SimCorner comes in. Our prepaid travel SIM cards and International SIM cards offers easy, affordable, and reliable travel SIM cards for a variety of destinations around the world. Making sure your globetrotting doesn’t come with hefty roaming fees and that you stay connected with ease.

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About SimCorner

Travelling to Europe , Africa , Asia , the United Kingdom , South America , NZ , Fiji , Middle East , or the USA ? No matter where you’re going in the world, SimCorner is the one you can rely on for a cheap travel SIM and International SIM cards that keeps you connected to your loved ones, and allows you to document every moment of your trip in real time. 

Prepare for any adventure with an international SIM card that can be conveniently and quickly delivered right to your door in Australia. With a SimCorner prepaid travel SIM, you’ll be ready to begin your journey as soon as you land without having to worry about searching for a SIM card to use your phone. 

What Sets Us Apart

When you choose SimCorner, you can travel with peace of mind knowing that you’ll never miss an important message, get stranded, or need to borrow a stranger’s phone in an emergency. We provide travellers with cheap SIM cards, reliable coverage, convenient delivery, and exceptional customer service. Whether you're searching for a travel SIM card, travel data SIM, or a reliable solution for international communication, we have you covered. Experience the difference of a SimCorner travel SIM on your next trip abroad.

SimCorner is proud to offer the most competitive prices on international travel SIM cards in Australia. If you happen to find a better deal anywhere else, we’ll beat it by 10%, according to our Price Beat Guarantee . 

What is a prepaid SIM card?

Prepaid SIM cards are an excellent option for staying connected with family and loved ones while traveling. They offer the convenience of not worrying about expensive roaming charges, and you can often find deals that include data and minutes for phone calls at a fraction of the cost of using your regular cell phone plan!

Instead of relying solely on an uninterrupted Wifi connection to access your device’s internet, you can count on your prepaid SIM to have your data covered throughout all your travels.

The benefits of an International Travel SIM card

While communication apps like Whatsapp or Viber are handy to keep in touch with loved ones back home when you have a Wifi connection, they’re not a consistently reliable communication source when traveling about on your daily adventures. After all, WiFi isn’t always readily available, particularly when you’re sightseeing or visiting remote locations.

To ensure your safety in a foreign country, a prepaid Travel SIM is your best bet to stay connected with people back home. You can also confirm reservations with your accommodation and have constant access to all your contacts in the case of any emergency.

If you’re traveling overseas, a travel SIM card for your relevant destination will be a far cheaper option than accessing your phone’s global roaming. You’ll have a certain amount of features included, so no hidden fees or roaming charges.

Investing in a travel SIM card allows you to post your exciting travel photos on social media and send regular updates to family and friends without thinking twice! To avoid the high cost of using your domestic phone plan internationally, reap the benefits that an international travel SIM card has to offer.

What’s involved in getting a prepaid Travel SIM for your travel destination?

To buy a travel SIM card in the Australia for your travel destination, you simply need to go to SimCorner and choose a SIM option from a range of sim cards with reasonable data allowances for a price that suits your budget. Shopping for a SIM is now easier than ever. Opting for a SIM from SimCorner is guaranteed to make shopping for your travel SIM card a far smoother experience.

To avoid the hassle of sourcing a SIM once you arrive at your overseas destination, we highly recommend exploring SimCorner’s one-stop shop for prepaid SIM cards in the Australia that cover countries across the globe to suit your travel needs.

Travel SIM cards for every destination

Discover our range of travel SIM card options for countries all across the globe. Whether you’re traveling to the beautiful beaches of Europe or Brazil or looking to explore the busy streets of London, buying our prepaid SIM cards has never been easier.

SimCorner — your one-stop shop for travel accessories

Traveling and wandering the world is quite an adventure — for most of us, it doesn’t come soon enough. At SimCorner, we prioritize our customers above all else. After all, sharing memories and staying in touch with those who matter shouldn’t come at a cost. That’s why our prepaid international travel SIM cards ensure that your globetrotting adventures don’t come with hefty roaming fees. You can easily stay connected, book activities, and accommodation to watch a TV show during long travel commutes by train or plane.

To kickstart your adventures, explore our travel blog for some helpful tips on sights to see and travel hacks to save you some money! Stay prepared for your trip with our selection of accessories and avoid the horrible realization that you have an incompatible charging adapter. From portable power banks to adapters and journals to document your travels, we’ve got you covered. If you have any queries, don’t hesitate to reach out to our expert team, who will be more than happy to help.

Why do you need a travel SIM card?

A travel SIM card is a great option for staying connected while traveling. They offer the convenience of not having to worry about roaming charges, and you can often find deals that include data and minutes for phone calls at a fraction of the cost of using your regular cell phone plan.

By opting for a prepaid SIM card in Australia from SimCorner, you’ll have no last-minute surprises and can guarantee an easy setup with its simple functionality. You can count on your prepaid SIM to have you covered with data throughout all your travels. That way, you can post all your travel photos on the go, keep in touch with loved ones back home and rest assured that you have access to your phone.

Which international travel SIM card is best?

While there are various international travel SIM cards on the market, none offer the generous inclusions of feature like the travel SIM card you can find at SimCorner. With no extra costs, roaming, or hidden fees, we’ve partnered with the world’s largest telecommunication services worldwide to ensure our travelers can enjoy the best possible deal wherever their adventures take them. If you’re unsure of which SIM to choose, don’t hesitate to reach out to our expert team, who will be happy to advise you on the right plan.

What makes SimCorner prepaid SIM cards easy to use?

If it’s a prepaid SIM card you’re after for your overseas travels, SimCorner could not be any easier — it is almost effortless to set up. Follow the steps below to install your SIM card and enjoy the ability to book activities and accommodation, and browse social media anywhere in the world:

• Order your SIM — Order your travel SIM card online and select the delivery method that best suits your travel date. SimCorner delivers to many countries worldwide, dispatching our competitive prepaid SIM cards from Australia, Canada, New Zealand, and the United Kingdom.
• Unlock your device — Once your international travel SIM card has arrived, ensure your device is unlocked before you board your flight. Being on a post-paid plan or contract with your local carrier doesn't mean your phone is locked. If you’re unsure, we recommend you check with your current service provider. So long as your device is unlocked, it will be compatible with our prepaid SIM cards unless stated otherwise.
• Connect your SIM — Insert your SIM card into your phone as soon as you land and stay connected immediately!

How do I inquire about a prepaid SIM?

If you have any queries on which prepaid travel SIM card is the right fit for you, contact our team of experts, who will be more than happy to answer any questions you may have. Once you’ve selected your prepaid SIM, SimCorner takes it one step further with our handy travel blog that provides exciting travel tips on sights to see and travel hacks to save you some money! So what are you waiting for? Buying a prepaid SIM card could not be easier than SimCorner.

Can I Use An eSIM for International Travel?

Yes, eSIMs are excellent for international travel, as you can easily switch to a local carrier's plan without needing a physical SIM card.

Discover the benefits of using an eSIM for travel, whether you're heading to the USA, Europe, Japan, Asia etc. Our USA eSIM ensures you stay connected while exploring the States, while the Europe eSIM offers across multiple European countries. Traveling to Japan? Discover the convenience of a Japan eSIM . And if you're exploring Asia, our eSIM Asia covers you across the region. Say hello to easy, borderless connectivity with eSIM for travel.

Get in touch

If you need any assistance finding a SIM card for overseas travel, reach out to our friendly team who will be happy to help. 

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Frequently asked questions.

Let’s face it — life’s pretty hard in the modern world without a smartphone. If you’re travelling overseas to a country where you don’t speak the language, planning an adventure a little off the beaten track, or just want to check the weather during your first night in a new town, you’re going to need a working phone. While your regular phone might be OK on the hotel Wi-Fi, only travel SIM cards can allow you to use phone data, send messages and make calls without racking up hefty roaming charges from your at-home mobile service provider.

The best prepaid SIM card depends on your destination. SimCorner offers international travel SIM cards for various regions, including Europe, USA, Canada, Mexico, Asia, New Zealand, Australia, Fiji, UK, South America, Africa, and the Middle East. If your specific destination is not listed, you can still enquire with SimCorner to find the best option for staying connected

All of the international travel SIM cards from SimCorner are designed especially for travellers, pre-loaded with set features and without any hidden fees or expensive roaming data charges. Once you’ve bought your prepaid SIM, you’ll never be charged for anything extra when you start using it.

Our prepaid SIMS come with plenty of data, so you can make internet calls back home, and video loved ones from the top of a mountain or a sunny beach. Prepaid data allows you to easily check directions when you’re out and about and share images of your trip in real-time.

Plus, our travel SIM cards come with thousands of minutes of inter-SIM calls, meaning if you and a family member or friend both purchase one, it’s free to contact each other during your trip. How easy is that?

All of our prepaid SIMs have a 15-day or 30-day service period from the date of activation — so you won’t start using up your data before putting the travel SIM card into your phone.

Are you going to be away for longer, or are you planning on using some serious data while you’re away for remote work or long chats with Mum? Simply purchase multiple prepaid SIMs. Once you’ve used up your data on one, you can switch it out for a new prepaid SIM and keep connected.

Some of our travel SIM cards also come with an option to top up credit on your existing SIM. Before you buy one of our prepaid SIMs, you can check if this is the case under ‘Things to Know’ on the product page.

All of our international travel SIM cards are supplied by reputable telecommunications providers in different parts of the world. Using them is safe and easy, but you will need to make sure your mobile device is unlocked before you leave for your big holiday. Having a postpaid phone on a plan with a local carrier isn’t the same as having a locked device — but if you’re not sure, your mobile service provider can double-check for you and help you unlock your device for easy international use.

SimCorner offer different travel SIM cards. The phone number associated with your travel SIM card depends on the type of SIM you choose. Some SIMs come with phone numbers noted on the package, others get sent by the provider to your phone. For data-only SIMs, you won't have a local number, but you can use internet-based calling and messaging services; think WhatsApp, Facebook Messenger, Viber, Snapchat, Skype, iMessage or Signal.

Yep! A prepaid SIM won’t alter, delete or change any information on your phone — you’ll still be able to view your apps, messages and any other information saved to the handset. If your contacts are saved in the storage on your current SIM, it’s a good idea to transfer these to your phone’s internal storage or back them up so you can access them at any time. Your WhatsApp and Messenger contacts will all still be on your phone.

When you receive your travel SIM card from SimCorner, the first step you’ll need to do is register it with us. Then, wait until you’ve reached your destination to insert the SIM card into your phone — it will activate from anywhere in the world, so you want your daily countdown to start when you’ve arrived in the country. Make sure your mobile data and data roaming services are turned on and fully enabled so you’re ready to start taking in the sights and sounds like a local!

Most of our travel SIM cards are compatible with mobiles only, meaning they won’t work on iPads or other tablets. However, you can use your mobile as a hotspot to share data with other devices. SimCorner also offers specific data-only SIM options for iPads and tablets in certain countries and regions.

SimCorner offers around-the-clock support and a money-back guarantee on all of our prepaid SIM cards — you just need to let us know about any problems as they occur. When you reach your destination, we recommend activating your SIM card at the airport, so you have a Wi-Fi connection to reach out to customer support if anything doesn’t look right.

If you’ve been a clever clog and thought ahead with a prepaid SIM to your holiday destination, you might start to rest on your laurels. Don’t forget accessories to keep you in touch throughout your trip!

Shop our range of accessories to ensure you have all the travel essentials; from universal power adaptors to wireless phone charger power banks, we’ve got everything you need to stay connected no matter where you are in the world. While you’re there, why not pick up a mask for the plane and a journal to keep all of your brilliant holiday thoughts in?

SimCorner is proud to deliver all over Australia, shipped from Melbourne. We offer a few different options depending on how soon you are travelling. If you need the sim cards urgently, we offer express shipping that can take 1-3 business day. Otherwise we offer 5-7 business days or 6-9 business days free shipping option.

If you’ve got a solo trip, a family holiday or a big adventure with the gang planned, a prepaid SIM card will keep you in touch with those back home and prepare you for any challenges that come your way.

To pick the right data plan and prepaid SIM for your holiday, get in touch with our friendly team today. We’ll be able to talk you through all the options available and set you up with the best value plan that will suit your needs.

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Popular Destinations

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• Middle East
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• North America
• Philippines
• Saudi Arabia
• South Africa
• South America
• South Korea
• Switzerland
• United Arab Emirates (Dubai)
• United Kingdom
• United States of America
• Vatican City

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“I can’t believe how easy to use and affordable this is!”

We used this eSIM for our trip to Japan and found it easy to install, activate and use. We had great coverage everywhere we went and were able to stay in contact with family and friends. Would recommend this eSIM for all your travel needs.

The eSIM was fantastic. It connected with ease on my day of arrival and allowed me to switch between my Aussie SIM & the eSIM allowing authentication text messages from my Aussie SIM to come through. Unlimited data was the best and I had service everywhere I went. Can’t recommend enough.

Loved the SimsDirect eSIM - made keeping in contact with family at home so easy. And had lots of data to upload photos. We will definitely use it again!

The experience using this SIM was great! It kept me connected in every country I travelled to around Europe, allowed me to browse the web, use Google Maps and Social Media just as I would at home. Great experience and highly recommend!

Setting up the eSIM was simple, following the instructions provided. Having the eSIM gave me peace of mind, knowing that I could use Google Maps to find my way back to the hotel and to use Google Translate.

This SIM worked as advertised. We travelled Italy, France & Spain for a month & found it invaluable for getting around. So handy having internet on the road & not having to rely on finding Wifi. Would definitely purchase again for next trip.

My recent trip to Canada went without a hitch. The eSIM was easy to activate and best of all great value. I look forward to using Sims Direct on my next overseas trip!

Get connected in 3 simple steps

1. find your plan.

Search our website for the perfect plan for your trip

2. Land and activate

Follow the instructions and get connected within minutes of landing

3. Travel connected

Enjoy a seamless data connection while you travel

Travel without limits

Unlimited Europe & UK eSIM (33 Countries)

• Unlimited Data
• Up to 90 days
• Keep your home number
• 33 Countries Covered

Unlimited Japan eSIM

• Up to 90 Days
• 1 Country Covered

Unlimited South East Asia eSIM (6 Countries)

• Unlimited data
• 6 Countries Covered
• Cambodia (Smart)
• Indonesia (including Bali) (XL)
• Malaysia (DiGi)
• Singapore (StarHub)
• Thailand (Dtac)
• Vietnam (Vinaphone)

Unlimited USA & Canada eSIM

• 2 Countries Covered

Unlimited China eSIM

• China (China Mobile)

• Up to 30 Days

Europe & UK eSIM (50 Countries)

• Up to 30GB Data
• Local Calls
• 53 Countries Covered
• Balearic Islands
• Isle of Man
• Isle of Wight
• Northern Ireland
• Rhodes Island

South East Asia eSIM (6 Countries)

• eSIM - Instant Delivery

Europe & UK eSIM (35 Countries)

• Up to 50GB Data
• 36 Countries Covered

South East Asia eSIM (12 Countries)

• Up to 10GB Data
• 13 Countries Covered

New Zealand eSIM

• Up to 20GB Data

China, Hong Kong & Macau eSIM

• 3 Countries Covered

Indonesia eSIM

Thailand eSIM

USA, Canada & Mexico eSIM

Middle East eSIM

• 8 Countries Covered
• Dubai (UAE)
• United Arab Emirates

South America eSIM

• Up to 5GB Data
• 14 Countries Covered

Africa eSIM

• Democratic Republic of the Congo

Australia eSIM

Turkey eSIM

Taiwan eSIM

Morocco eSIM

100% money back guarantee.

If you cancel your trip or experience tech issues that we can’t fix; we’ll refund you 100%.

How will you power your journey abroad?

Get connected. anytime. anywhere..

Save yourself the frustration of wifi hopping, getting a local SIM or worrying about roaming fees!

Got questions? We’ve got answers

• Using the eSIM
• Calls & Texts

An eSIM is a digital SIM that's built into your device, eliminating the need for physical SIM cards.

Simply check your device's compatibility, purchase a plan, and download it instantly.

Follow the instructions included in the email with your purchase to install and activate your eSIM.

No more swapping SIMs or hunting for Wi-Fi - just seamless connectivity for your travels.


Travel eSIMs cater to anyone seeking dependable global connectivity, including holiday-goers, digital nomads, business travelers, and anyone wanting to stay in touch while overseas.

They eliminate costly roaming charges, the inconvenience of purchasing local SIM cards, and the need to switch SIMs or search for Wi-Fi, ensuring you're always connected on the best local networks.

Buying an eSIM offers simplicity, savings, and flexibility. Skip the hunt for physical SIM cards and avoid expensive roaming fees. Opt for a data plan that fits your needs without removing your home SIM. Enjoy seamless navigation, instant social media updates, and the convenience of making last-minute bookings on the go.

Your data needs depend on your usage: Lite User: Ideal for Google Maps, web browsing, and messaging. Recommended: 1-10GB per 30 days. Average User: Includes social media on top of lite usage. Recommended: Unlimited or 10GB+ per 30 days.
 Power User : Adds video streaming and heavy downloading to the mix. Recommended: Unlimited or 20GB+ per 30 days. Choose based on your travel activities for a seamless experience.

For multi-country travel, opt for country-specific eSIMs or a regional eSIM covering several countries.

Depending on your itinerary's complexity, a mix may be necessary.

For instance, a 'Europe eSIM' could cover five EU countries, and a separate 'Japan eSIM' for Japan.

Always verify eSIM coverage for your destinations on the product page to ensure connectivity.

Feeling unsure about new tech is common, but using our eSIMs is simple and not complicated at all.

You'll receive clear instructions for a quick setup, and our global customer support team is always ready to assist.

Plus, with our 'Get Connected Guarantee,' you're covered with a 100% refund if there's an unsolvable technical issue. 



Buy your eSIM anytime and store it in your email until needed.

Note that some eSIMs expire 90 days or 12 months after purchase, so buy these closer to your travel date to ensure validity throughout your trip.

Always check the expiry details on the product page before adding to cart.

To check eSIM compatibility, use our online checker on the product page or search your device model online.

Most devices are unlocked, but if unsure, test with a different SIM/eSIM.

Devices bought on plans might be carrier-locked; contact your carrier's customer service to confirm or unlock.

If your device is unlocked and eSIM-compatible, you're ready for our eSIMs!

For more details on compatibility, visit our help centre article here.

Install your eSIM in 3 steps:

1. Ensure your device is eSIM-compatible and unlocked.

2. Install via QR code in the eSIM email or manually (iOS: Settings > Cellular > Add eSIM; Android: Settings > Connections > SIM Manager > Add Mobile Plan). Enter details as provided.

3. Activate upon arrival : Set as primary, disable auto-switch, enable Data Roaming, and restart.

Full instructions provided with purchase.

To confirm your eSIM installation, follow these steps:


1. Complete the installation as per the provided instructions with purchase.


2. Go to your device's mobile settings; if the eSIM shows up, it's correctly installed.


3. Upon arrival, activate it by making it the primary data plan, disabling auto-switch, enabling Data Roaming, and restarting your device.

If you encounter any issues or need reassurance, our customer support team is ready to help before your trip.

Before you take off on your journey, make sure to install your eSIM while you're connected to the internet.

Don't worry about it activating right away—it'll only kick in once you connect to a local network at your destination.

When you arrive, just enable the eSIM in your device settings to start your plan.

If you're not planning to use it immediately, no problem! You can keep the eSIM stored safely in your email or installed but turned off in your device until you need it. Safe travels!

Your eSIM plan will start at the moment of ‘Activation’.

Activation happens when the eSIM connects to a local network overseas and the network detects your eSIM.

As soon as you connect to a local network overseas, your durations of days begins counting down.

Yes, you can have multiple eSIMs on your device.

Devices vary in the number of eSIMs they can hold; check your model online for specifics.

Although multiple eSIMs can be stored, only one can be active for data at a time. Switching eSIM plans is easy via your phone settings.

Many devices let you use your home SIM for calls and texts while using an eSIM for data at the same time.

This means you can receive calls and texts on your home number abroad (be mindful of possible roaming charges) and enjoy data services through the eSIM without incurring roaming fees.

You can use a physical SIM and an eSIM together in your device, allowing one for calls/texts and the other for data.

Switch between them easily via your settings, ideal for travelers wanting to avoid roaming fees on data while keeping their home SIM active for calls and texts.

Be aware, receiving calls abroad may incur charges (check with your carrier), but texts are usually free.

Most of our plans allow hotspotting. To confirm this, you can find all the plan information under the 'Quick Info' tab on the plan product page.

We do not have top-up capabilities right now. We are currently developing a top-up feature for our eSIMs but this will take time.



To get around this you can always come back to the website at any time no matter where you are and repurchase a new eSIM plan to be up and running within minutes.

You can find how much data you've used in your mobile device settings.

Settings > Mobile > Scroll to find ’Current Period Roaming’

Settings > Connections > Data Usage > Billing Cycle and data warning > Select the period from the day you started using the SIM to the current day. Save and your data usage will be shown.

Some of our eSIMs have a maximum of 30 days usage. In this case you can purchase multiple eSIMs to cover the full duration of your trip. You can start using one and keep additional eSIMs in your email for later use.



If you extend your stay and need days you can always come back to the website at any time no matter where you are and repurchase a new eSIM plan to be up and running within minutes.


Additionally, our unlimited eSIM range has options from 7 to 90 days duration to cover longer trips.

Fair Usage Policies ensure unlimited plans are used fairly, preventing network impact from excessive data use.

For unlimited eSIMs, high data use in a day may slow your speeds until the next morning.This policy resets daily, so speeds will be restored the following morning if you are affected.

Non-unlimited eSIMs with a fixed data allowance (e.g., 20GB/30 days) don't have these restrictions, allowing full usage without speed limits.

Your eSIM connects to local networks in your destination, ensuring fast and reliable data.

Expect 4G and 5G speeds, with faster connectivity in cities and towns and potentially slower service in remote areas.

Our eSIMs can access multiple local networks, offering the flexibility to switch or automatically connect to the best available network.

For specific network details, check the 'Coverage' tab on the product page or contact our team for a list of networks accessible with your eSIM.

Our travel eSIMs focus on data, most do not include traditional calls and texts. 


We do have a select number of eSIMs and SIMs with calls and texts including this Europe eSIM and a handful of physical SIM cards for Europe, New Zealand, and the USA.

Most travelers don't need calls and texts, as data allows free communication through various apps.

If you require calls and texts, please continue reading our 'Calls and Text' FAQs for solutions and alternatives while traveling.

Yes, you can keep your home number active for calls and texts while abroad by using your home SIM alongside our eSIM for data.

Beware of potential roaming charges for outgoing calls and texts, though incoming texts are usually free.

This setup is ideal for emergencies or receiving one-time passwords.



There's no action required on your part to maintain your WhatsApp number. It will automatically preserve your number, contacts, and conversations.

You can utilize apps such as WhatsApp, FaceTime, iMessage, and other social media platforms for free with an internet connection from our eSIM to stay in touch with friends and family.

To call local businesses overseas, VOIP services like Skype and Viber offer a cost-effective method; just buy some credit and use an internet connection via our eSIM.

Alternatively, many businesses have WhatsApp numbers or email for free communication with internet access. You could also use your accommodation's landline.

If you need local calls and texts, consider our Europe eSIM or physical SIM cards for Europe , New Zealand , and the USA , which include these features and can be sent to you before your trip.

VOIP services like Skype and Viber are a cost effective solution for this. You will just need to purchase a small amount of credit and have an internet connection with our eSIM.


Browse our help centre for immediate answers or get in touch with our support team if you need more help.

Our journey so far...

Our story begins with best friends Aidan and Mac moving to Sydney to join a startup and pursue their dreams. Things didn’t really go to plan and they were left broke (more than once). What follows is a journey of failures, lessons
and persistence.

International SIM Cards 
& Prepaid Travel SIMs

Is your device not eSIM compatible? Don’t worry, we haven’t ditched the trusty traditional SIM cards just yet. We offer both physical SIMs and eSIMs for 100+ destinations worldwide.

Travel Blog

Demystifying International Data Roaming: Everything You Need to Know

Unlocking the Secrets: What Does a SIM Card Hold?

How to Clean a SIM Card: A Traveler's Guide to Uninterrupted Connectivity

Why is the activation date important.

• We need these dates to activate your SIM card so you can use  it when the SIM is inserted into your device.
• For a seamless experience, make sure the date you insert at checkout is the exact date you want to start using the SIM, not earlier or later.
• Activation can take anywhere from a few minutes to a couple of hours.

Not sure on your dates yet?

• You can add in an estimated date for your SIM. Your SIM’s data & validity won’t start until you plug it into your device.
• Once you know your exact dates, please let us know via our live chat or at [email protected] so we can activate it for you at the right time. 

What if you need to change the dates?

• You can reach out to us via our live chat or at [email protected] with your order number so we can change it for you.

Our expert, award-winning staff selects the products we cover and rigorously researches and tests our top picks. If you buy through our links, we may get a commission. How we test phones

How I Discovered eSIMs to Be the Smart Choice for Travelers

So long, roaming hassles! Using an eSIM for roaming is the best travel decision I've made in a long time.

Want to carefully manage and minimize roaming charges? An eSIM could be ideal.

Back in 2010, I took a backpacking trip around Indonesia for two months. I didn't travel with a mobile phone. All I had was my trusty Lonely Planet guidebook for recommendations, and the occasional stop at an internet cafe to email location updates to my parents.

Now, in 2024, I can't fathom how I managed to travel without the internet constantly at my fingertips. A phone is a travel essential and roaming while I'm overseas is non-negotiable -- and if I listed the reasons why, I'd be here all day. But roaming, if you're not careful, can also get expensive.

No matter where you're coming from or where you're traveling to, ensuring that you have internet access without running up a scary bill is a travel essential , and something you should ideally look into before you leave on your trip.

Carriers know how important it is for you to stay connected while you're traveling, and most have some kind of roaming deal you can take advantage of. But what happens when your network's roaming offering doesn't meet your data requirements for your destination, or is just too expensive?

Discovering the brilliance of eSIMs

Turns out, there's a very simple, practical solution if you have an unlocked phone like me: the eSIM. It's an electronic form of a SIM card embedded into your phone, which allows you to switch between carriers and data plans without the faff of removing and replacing physical SIM cards. The result is that you can have several SIM cards associated with your phone at once, allowing you to easily switch between plans and carriers as you travel.

In the past I'd opted for a Mi-Fi device equipped with a local pay-as-you-go SIM card when I touched down in a new country. This let me keep using my phone number and ensured I had internet access when I was out and about during the day. It's a fiddly solution, though, which usually involves finding somewhere to buy a SIM card immediately after getting off a long flight, and then remembering to charge the Mi-Fi every night.

I turned to eSIM as a last resort, but I won't be going back. I'm based in the UK, and my operator GiffGaff only allows limited roaming in select European countries. While planning a trip to the US and Canada last year, I was once again about to reach for my trusty Mi-Fi when I remembered something I'd heard about eSIM roaming operators.

From attending mobile phone events over the years, I had a vague understanding of eSIM technology, but I'd never considered using it personally for travel before this trip. It's not unusual to have a lack of awareness about how eSIM technology could benefit you while traveling. According to research due to be published this month by tech analysis firm CCS Insight, only 37% of Americans have heard of eSIM and only 8% have used an eSIM roaming provider.

One of the biggest challenges for eSIM providers is that most people are still unaware that eSIM exists as an option for them, says CCS Insight Director Kester Mann. Even if they have heard of it, less technically savvy customers may be put off by the installation instructions. Plus, it's often another thing to add to a long prevacation to-do list (although you can also do it when you arrive).

Another obstacle is that a lot of the names in eSIM game are new, said Mann. "People perhaps are a little bit nervous around signing up to the company they haven't heard of, or one that perhaps hasn't got an established reputation."

How I used Airalo's eSIM for traveling

There are a number of roaming eSIM providers that you can use, all offering competitive rates on data bundles, and different benefits across different regions. There's scope for many more providers to pop up in the near future, but for now some of the biggest names include Airhub, EasySim, Holafly and Airalo.

All the instructions you need can be found in Airalo's app.

In my research I couldn't find much to separate them and decided to take a chance on Airalo due to the diverse range of countries it supported. Installing an eSIM and getting it up and running isn't an entirely frictionless process, but by carefully following Airalo's in-app step-by-step instructions, I got it right the first time. 

Each country requires a different eSIM, and you can have multiple eSIMs installed on your phone at once. After you've installed your first eSIM, adding more is pretty intuitive -- everything can be done from within the Airalo app.

For a trip at the end of 2023, I activated two eSIMs, one for the US and one for Canada, buying 20GB of data for $42 and 3GB of data for $15 respectively. I was pleased to find when I returned to Canada this year that I could simply reactivate the eSIM I'd installed and upload more pay as you go credit to see me through my trip.

As I landed in Canada from the US, I switched my primary data plan to my preinstalled Canada eSIM in my iPhone settings and I was good to go immediately. It was so frictionless that I even decided to plump for eSIM on my trip to Barcelona for Mobile World Congress in March. My UK plan allows me to use 5GB of data while roaming in Spain, but for an intense week at a conference I knew this wouldn't be enough. Instead I spent $12 on a 10GB eSIM, and even though I had to top this up during the week, it remained a bargain.

Like me, most people who try eSIM roaming have a positive experience, says Mann. But he advises people to do their research and compare costs with their domestic provider before they head off on vacation to ensure it makes sense for them. Opting for eSIM might be especially good if you're traveling to "more far-flung destinations that aren't typically covered in operators' roaming packages," he adds.

Which phones have eSIM capability?

Another key thing to bear in mind if you're considering an eSIM for roaming is to check whether it's available on your phone. Not all phones are currently eSIM-compatible, but if you have an iPhone XS, iPhone XS Max, iPhone XR or any post-2019 Apple phone, you'll be able to take advantage of the technology. Some Samsung, Motorola and Google phones also have eSIM compatibility, but you'll have to look up your model individually if you're not sure. You'll also need to make sure your phone isn't locked by your carrier.

Something I discovered on my eSIM journey so far is that it's a fairly low-stakes technology to experiment with. It's affordable, flexible and temporary. If I find a better deal on another provider later, it'll be easy for me to switch. 

The market is booming right now, with about 700 million people in the world owning eSIM-compatible devices and as many as 10% of people in some countries purchasing an eSIM before they travel, according to CCS Insight. If you're traveling abroad this summer, whether it be to Europe, Asia or just over the border to Mexico or Canada, why not join us?

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Travel SIM Cards

International SIM cards and eSIMs for all your mobile needs abroad

Travelex partners with SimsDirect (by Simify) for all your international SIM card needs

Super Easy to Use No ID, no contracts, ready to use within minutes with eSIMs

Value for Money Generous data amounts on the best networks

Free and Fast Aussie Delivery SimCards Delivered to your door before you fly out. No wait with eSIMS!

100% Money-Back Guarantee If your SIM doesn't make your trip easier, get your money back

Instant Connection Insert when you land and have internet in minutes

No Roaming Fees What you pay for is what you get, no hidden fees

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Mailed to you in 2 to 7 days

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10 GB to 37 GB of data

UNLIMITED Calls & Text To European numbers from Europe

SIMPLE Plug & Play Activation No ID registration is needed

South East Asia

China, Hong Kong, Macau

15 GB of DATA 4G data speed

Hotspot/Tethering Enabled

New Zealand & Fiji

New Zealand

28 to 365 days

Global SIMs

SimsDirect (by Simify) FAQ

All simify plans of $30 or more have international calls and text included.

1. Order your travel SIM online by clicking on the "BUY" buttons above to select your plan 2a. e-SIM: download e-SIM from the link in the email you will receive 2b. Sim card: wait for the physical card to arrive in the mail and then take it on your flight 3. Land and choose e-SIM or just insert the physical sim card into your device and activate it. You're all set!

Option 1 - Australia Post Standard Service. Delivered in 4-7 business days and is completely free with tracking included.

Option 2 - Australia Post Express Service. Delivered in 1-2 business days and is $7.99 with tracking included.

See full details here .

Check that your phone is compatible with eSIMs here .

Step 1 - Land in New Zealand

Step 2 - Insert SIM card

Step 3 - Dial 200

Step 4- Restart your device

You should connect within 5 minutes and you are all set. Happy travels!

If you want to call or text home: Simply dial: Country Code -> Area Code -> Mobile Number For example: If you wish to dial 0431166871 You would enter +61431166871

For NZ calls & texts: Simply enter the local number and you are all set.

This SIM can be easily recharged via the 2degrees mobile app. Instructions are included on the SIM packaging.

Your new mobile number is printed on the back of the SIM packaging so you can give it to friends and family before you leave.

Countries included in the Europe & UK plan

• Aland Islands
• Balearic Islands
• Canary Islands
• Isle of Man
• Liechtenstein
• Netherlands
• Northern Ireland
• Switzerland
• The Czech Republic
• Vatican City

Countries included in SOUTH AMERICA

• El Salvador
• French Guiana
• French West Indies
• Puerto Rico

Most common questions

Your new New Zealand mobile number is printed on the back of the SIM packaging so you can give it to friends and family before you leave.

Countries included in the Europe & UK plan: EUROPE

Simify terms & conditions.

Click here to view SimsDirect (by Simify©) Terms and Conditions.

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How to make sure your phone works when you travel internationally

Y ou've got a brand-new passport and you're ready to finally leave your home country to see something new. Overseas travel can be a ton of fun, but there are also a bunch of considerations you need to make before doing it. One of these is making sure your phone works.

A smartphone is a great way to find things to do, maneuver your way around, and generally document your journey abroad. How are you going to get those Instagram posts off if your phone doesn't work? Maybe you'd like to call a loved one and tell them how things are going, too. That's probably more important.

Unfortunately, you can't just bring your phone as-is to another country and expect it to work without a hitch. That's not how the world works. You probably won't need to get a brand new phone just for your trip, but the options for using your normal phone vary by both convenience and price.

Thankfully, this is something people do every day. As such, there are some well-established and fairly simple ways to just keep using your regular phone in another country. You just have to know what to do, and that's where we come in.

Here are some ways you can use your phone overseas.

Make sure your phone will work

This should be less of a problem for those with recent smartphones, but there's always a possibility your phone won't be compatible with different cell frequencies around the world. This is because of the mobile standards known as GSM and CDMA.

The technical differences between the two are a bit much to get into here, but PCMag has a helpful guide to that if you're interested. Just know that a GSM-compliant phone is more likely to work around the world than a CDMA-compliant phone, and if your phone is recent enough, you probably don't need to worry about that.

If you don't feel like doing a bunch of homework but you still want to have all your bases covered, you can always call your phone company to verify your phone will work overseas. Otherwise, you can find out with enough internet research; Apple, for example, has a page for this on its website . There's also a trip planner tool with this issue in mind on Verizon's website .

Check your carrier's options

Every mobile service provider understands that their customers might need to travel overseas on occasion and has specific service plans in place for this. On paper, this seems great. You don't have to buy anything or mess with your phone to make it work abroad because your service carrier will just make it work on their end.

The only problem is the price.

This will vary from carrier to carrier, but international plans can be expensive and not always that great. With major carriers like AT&T and Verizon , you're generally looking at about $10 per day and per device in most countries.

As The Wirecutter pointed out, these can come with data allowances, which can be annoying depending on how much you're using your phone while you travel. In general, these kinds of plans might be more useful for short overseas trips. If you plan on being away from the U.S. for a week or more, you should really consider our next option.

Look into getting a local SIM card

The cheapest and best way to use your phone in another country is almost always going to be with a local SIM card . In case you're unfamiliar, SIM stands for "subscriber identity module" and the SIM card in your phone is what lets you go online, make calls, so on and so forth.

The card in your current phone lets you do those things in your home country, but it won't fly elsewhere. Thankfully, you can pretty easily get one that's tuned to wherever you're going upon arrival.

You should probably do some location-specific research to find out the best place to get a local SIM card before you travel, but at least in some cases, you can get them right at the airport. For instance, a friend of mine took a week-long trip to the U.K. and picked one up at Heathrow Airport .

In total, it cost them about $30 USD to get a month's worth of phone use on a local network. Their phone number temporarily changed, but it reverted right back once they got home and put their old SIM card back in.

The only potential headaches here are finding a store to get a SIM card and making sure your phone is unlocked. You should contact your carrier ahead of time and see if they can unlock your phone so SIM installation is as painless as possible.

Oh, and make sure your phone lets you remove your SIM card at all. There should be a little slot on the side, but not every phone will be your friend in this regard. Better safe than sorry.

UPDATE: Jul. 24, 2023, 11:22 AM AEST This article was originally published in Feb. 2020, and has since been updated in July 2023.

About eSIM on iPhone

Learn what an eSIM is, how to set up an eSIM on your iPhone, and how to transfer a physical SIM to an eSIM.

What is eSIM on iPhone?

An eSIM is an industry-standard digital SIM that allows you to activate a cellular plan from your carrier without having to use a physical SIM. You can install eight or more eSIMs on an iPhone and use two phone numbers at the same time.

What you need

An iPhone XS, iPhone XS Max, iPhone XR, or later

A wireless carrier or worldwide service provider that supports eSIM

Your new iPhone needs to be connected to a Wi-Fi network.*

eSIM on iPhone is not offered in China mainland. In Hong Kong and Macao, some iPhone models feature eSIM. Learn about using Dual SIM with two nano-SIM cards in China mainland, Hong Kong, and Macao . For travelers visiting China mainland who wish to use an eSIM for prepaid data plans, these are offered by many worldwide service providers .

* iPhone 14 models and later that are eSIM only can activate without a Wi-Fi network.

How to set up an eSIM on iPhone

Setting up your eSIM is usually just a matter of turning on your new iPhone and following the onscreen instructions.

You can activate your eSIM while you're setting up your iPhone if your carrier supports eSIM Carrier Activation or eSIM Quick Transfer. With eSIM Carrier Activation, your carrier assigns an eSIM to your iPhone when you purchase it. With eSIM Quick Transfer, you transfer the SIM from your previous iPhone to your new iPhone without contacting your carrier. With either method, to activate your eSIM during setup, turn on your iPhone and follow the instructions.

Some carriers support transferring a phone number from your previous iPhone to your new iPhone without needing to contact them. Make sure that you’re signed in with your Apple ID on both devices, or make sure that your previous iPhone is unlocked, nearby with Bluetooth turned on, and using iOS 16 or later.

You can also use these options later to add or transfer an eSIM. If these options aren't available, contact your carrier to activate your eSIM using a QR code or your carrier's iPhone app.

If you purchased an iPhone 14 model or later in the United States, your iPhone activates with an eSIM. To activate your eSIM using eSIM Carrier Activation, eSIM Quick Transfer, or another activation method, turn on your iPhone and follow the instructions.

Use eSIM Carrier Activation on iPhone

Some carriers and worldwide service providers can assign a new eSIM to your iPhone, making setup easy. This usually happens when you purchase from a carrier and you provide your cellular-plan details. If an eSIM was assigned to your iPhone when you bought it, turn on your iPhone and follow the instructions to activate your eSIM.

If you're switching to iPhone (from an Android phone, for example), contact your carrier to transfer your phone number to your iPhone through eSIM Carrier Activation or by scanning a QR code from your carrier.

If you contacted your carrier for an eSIM after you set up your iPhone, and they set up eSIM Carrier Activation, follow these steps:

When a notification appears that says Carrier Cellular Plan Ready to Be Installed, tap it.

In the Settings app, tap Carrier Cellular Plan Ready to Be Installed.

Tap Continue at the bottom of the screen.

Make a call on your iPhone to check its cellular connectivity. If you can't make a call, contact your carrier.

If the plan you activated replaces the plan on your physical SIM, remove your physical SIM. Then restart your iPhone.

Use eSIM Quick Transfer on iPhone

Some carriers support SIM transfers from your previous iPhone to your new iPhone without needing to contact them. You can also convert your current physical SIM card to an eSIM.

If you don't have access to your current iPhone, contact your carrier to transfer your eSIM.

While you're setting up your iPhone, if you're asked to transfer your SIM, follow the onscreen instructions to transfer your physical SIM or eSIM. If you need to transfer more than one SIM to your new iPhone, transfer your additional SIMs following the steps below.

Transfer a physical SIM or eSIM on your previous iPhone to an eSIM on your new iPhone after setup

On your new iPhone, go to Settings > Cellular > Add Cellular Plan.

Choose a cellular plan to transfer from another iPhone. If you don't see a list of numbers, tap Transfer From Another iPhone. This requires both devices to have iOS 16 or later.

Check for instructions on your previous iPhone to confirm the transfer. To confirm, tap Transfer or, if asked for a verification code, enter the code that's displayed on your new iPhone.

Wait for the cellular plan to activate on your new iPhone. Your previous SIM is deactivated when the cellular plan on your new iPhone activates.

If a banner appears on your new iPhone that says Finish Setting Up Your Carrier's Cellular Plan, tap it. You will be redirected to your carrier's webpage to transfer your eSIM. If you need help, contact your carrier.

Convert a physical SIM to an eSIM on the same iPhone

You can convert a physical SIM to an eSIM on the same iPhone, if your carrier supports it. Follow these steps:

On your iPhone, go to Settings > Cellular.

Tap Convert to eSIM. If you don't see Convert to eSIM, your carrier doesn't support this option. Contact your carrier to move your phone number from your physical SIM to an eSIM using eSIM Carrier Activation or by scanning a QR code.

Tap Convert Cellular Plan.

Tap Convert to eSIM.

Wait for your eSIM to activate. Your previous SIM card is deactivated when the cellular plan on your iPhone activates.

Remove the physical SIM from your iPhone. Then restart your iPhone.

Use a QR code

You can use a QR code from your carrier to set up eSIM on your iPhone.

To activate your eSIM while setting up your iPhone:

When you get to the Set Up Cellular screen, tap Use QR code.

Follow the onscreen instructions.

To activate your eSIM after you set up your iPhone, contact your carrier to get a QR code. Then follow these steps:

Open the Camera app and scan your QR code. When the Cellular Plan Detected notification appears, tap it.

If you’re using an iPhone with iOS 17.4 or later and you receive a QR code from your carrier in an email, or from the carrier webpage, touch and hold the QR code, then tap Add eSIM.

Tap Add Cellular Plan.

If you’re asked to enter a confirmation code to activate your eSIM, enter the number that your carrier provided.

Other eSIM activation methods

Some carriers may send you a link instead of a QR code to download your eSIM.

On your iPhone with iOS 17.4 or later, tap the link to set up your eSIM.

When the Activate New eSIM notification appears, tap Allow.

If your carrier supports activating eSIM using an app, download your carrier’s app from the App Store and follow the instructions.

Enter the eSIM information manually if necessary

Contact your carrier to get the eSIM details you need to enter.

Go to Settings.

Tap either Cellular or Mobile Data.

Tap Enter Details Manually at the bottom of your iPhone screen.

If you can't set up an eSIM .

If necessary, erase your eSIM .

Learn how to use Dual SIM with eSIM .

Find wireless carriers and worldwide services providers that offer eSIM service .

Use eSIM while traveling abroad with your iPhone .

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