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Best eSIM for international travel of 2024

eSIMs that are easy to install and provide excellent network coverage

Best eSIM overall

• Best for customizable plans
• Best for easy installation
• Best value for money
• Best for security
• Best for network coverage
• Best for unlimited data
• Best for beginners
• Best for global plans
• Best for Europe
• Best for data-only plans
• eSIMs for international travel FAQs

The best eSIMS for international travel make it simple and easy to stay connected with your phone wherever you are, without breaking the bank.

1. Best overall 2. Best for customizable plans 3. Best for easy installation 4. Best for value for money 5. Best for security   6. Best for network coverage  7. Best for unlimited data

8. Best for beginners 9. Best for global plans 10. Best for Europe   11. Best for data-only plans 12. FAQs

eSIMs have gained a lot of traction in recent years, especially in international travel. Admit it, you do not like getting into huge queues to buy an eSIM just after you’ve landed at your dream location. You can now skip the queue with the best eSIM for international travel, with plans ranging from 3 days to as long as a year.

These eSIMs are easy to install and provide excellent network coverage. However, with so many providers offering eSIMs, which one should you purchase? I have done the hard yards to find and review the best eSIM you can get for international travel, regardless of whether you want to travel to Europe, the USA, Asia, Africa, or Australia. So, make sure you read till the end to know everything you could ever need before purchasing your next eSIM.

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Specifications

Reasons to buy, reasons to avoid.

Airhub is a huge online store from which you can buy eSIMs in over 190+ countries worldwide. It has a massive variety of eSIM plans that include data, local call minutes, SMS, and international call minutes. 

While most eSIM providers usually have around 3-5 plans per country, Airhub provides up to 15 plans to choose from for a single country which gives you the flexibility to select the plan that resonates best with your needs. Also, Airhub has truly managed to make some of the best partnerships with local companies to offer the cost-effective deals that it does. 

If you're going to hang in a country for multiple months, you can simply go for the monthly subscriptions. Some of these plans also include unlimited voice minutes and SMS - you truly get the best deal here. 

The majority of plans that you will find on the website are prepaid, with a few postpaid plans and a postpaid monthly subscription in a few countries, the most important one being the United States. However, it doesn't have strong coverage in Latin America. For example, I found them offering only a single plan in countries like Brazil, Argentina, and Mexico. Moreover, there are no plans for countries like Cuba, Chile, Paraguay, Uruguay, and Ecuador. 

The regional plans offer an attractive price proposition as well, with options available in APAC, Africa, North America, the Middle East, and Europe. We highly recommend the Europe plan if you're about to go on a Europe tour. Airhub covers up to 49 countries in the plans, with the plans starting at just $11 for a month with a 3GB data limit. We could also spot a few 1-year plans in Europe ranging from 10GB to 100GB for the year.  

When you open the Airhub app, there's not a lot going on like most other eSIM apps — the interface is clean and intuitive. After logging in, you will find a page that lets you select the country, with three tabs differentiating local eSIMs, regional eSIMs, and Monthly plans (note that the global package is included in the regional eSIM category). 

Concluding, Airhub stands out with its great plans, minimalist apps, and websites and ticks all the boxes of travelers and remote workers looking for an affordable and effective eSIM. 

Read our full Airhub review.

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Best eSIM for customizable plans

Airalo is easily one of the best eSIM providers for travelers looking for an affordable and reliable SIM card, which is in more than 200 countries. The stand-out thing about Airalo is its great collaborations with local telco companies all over the world which makes it the cost leader that it is today. 

Keep in mind that this also means the cost of Airalo depends on the place you're traveling to, and the cost of data there — validity and data limit being the other two factors that affect its price.

It also offers 7 regional plans, including Latin America and Caribbean Islands — regions that aren’t well catered by other eSIM providers.

It also has a specific global plan that provides access to around 84 countries worldwide — perfect for international travelers. You can choose between 1GB to 20GB of data spread across 7 days to 180 days validity. 

To buy the eSIM, you simply have to go to the app, create an account, choose the place you are traveling to, and the package of your choice, and then install the eSIM. After that, you’ll need to follow a simple eSIM activation procedure, and that’s it. The payment can be made through a credit card or Apple Pay. 

One major thing to look out for when getting an Airalo eSIM is that most of them don't offer voice minutes — there's only a data plan. So if you're someone who makes a lot of voice calls throughout the day, you might want to look out for an alternative here. That said, you can always communicate via Internet calls when needed. 

Airalo has a loyalty feature where you get credit every time you purchase data from the service provider. Initially, you get a 5% Airalo credit for every purchase, which keeps increasing as you collect more and more credit. So, initially, if you spend $20 on a package, you get a $1 credit that you can use for future purchases. 

Read our full Airalo review.

Best eSIM for easy installation

AloSIM is a Canada-based tech company that offers great prepaid data SIMs at affordable prices. One innovative feature of the app is its Data Calculator which helps you find the estimated data that you will require depending on the things you use your internet for on a daily, weekly, and monthly basis. Once you have decided on the amount of data you need, you can head over to the eSIM area and select a plan to your liking.

The reason why this is so great is because it bears testimony to the brand's transparency and genuineness. Being able to calculate your daily requirements won't let you overspend on something you don't need. 

Another thing I love about AloSIM is that you get to see which partnering networks you're gonna be connected with before you purchase any package so that you can assure that you are connected to a reliable network. You can also check the speed availability in the region (3G, 4G, 5G, or LTE). This is something most eSIM providers do not offer.

Installing the eSIM is also easy with AloSIM. There are three ways in which you can do that:

1. Automatic installation — if you want to start using your plan straight away, you should go with this option. 

2. Scanning QR code — this option is available in almost all eSIM providers — you just have to scan the QR code to activate your network. 

3. Manual installation — You will have to go through a step-by-step instruction manual to adjust your settings and activate your eSIM. 

The prices at AloSIM are among the most reasonable I’ve seen. You can get the 5 GB for 30 days plan for as low as $16 in the US. That's a lot of difference compared to the plan your home SIM can provide you. Plus, data sharing is supported, so you can use your personal hotspot to connect to other devices or let a friend free ride with you. AloSIM also offers as many as 11 regional plans — one of the highest on our list. 

However, I couldn’t spot a regional plan for Africa or an extensive Asian plan. The Asian regional plan covers just five countries in Southeast Asia. Thus, it isn’t a great option if you’re traveling East.

Just like every data-only eSIM, you will not get a phone number with AloSIM. Also, there's no unlimited plan for you to rely on if you're a data junkie. Overall, AloSIM stands out with its transparency, auto-installation feature, and affordable price. 

Read our full AloSIM review.

Best eSIM for value for money

Nomad eSIM is a great option if you’re on short trips and need a travel eSIM that doesn't cost you a fortune. It is well-known for its short-duration plans of 7 and 15 days. Its offerings are divided into regional plans and individual country plans. 

You can also purchase an unlimited data plan in selected individual countries, such as the UK, something that isn’t available with regional plans. With Nomad, you can purchase one GB of data for as low as $1.30 (in Asia and the Americas).

It has an incredible value proposition in North America, Asia, and Europe. However, when it comes to Latin America, you can definitely find cheaper options. For example, 1GB of data with a 7-day validity costs $9 on Nomad. However, the same plan is available at $6.5 on Airalo, with both of them covering the same three counties —Canada, USA, and Mexico,

What we love about this provider is that it doesn't charge you any one-time connection fee or even a fee for the SIM card itself. There's no hidden cost, and you don't have to worry about enormous roaming costs as well. Just pay for the upfront amount of the package, and you’re good to go.

There are eight regional plans - APAC, Nordic, Europe, SEA - Oceania, Global, North America, Africa, and Middle East. Regional plans allow you to buy the plan once and use it in a specific group of countries - no need to buy a new eSIM for every country you travel to. For example, if you’re visiting France, Germany, and Italy, simply get the European regional plan. You’ll not need to buy a separate eSIM in each country.

The global plan is decent, with an option to purchase a global e-Sim for either 110 countries or 140 countries. The 110-country plan starts at $25/GB (validity of 7 days), while the 140-country plan starts at $19/GB for the same validity period.

Recently, Nomad added an SMS plan available in selected countries like Canada, the United States, and the UK. I found the plan to be pretty reasonable, too, starting at 100 texts for $4. 

What's more, Nomad has one of the most user-friendly apps. You can easily find all the plans, and the interface is very clean. You can also track your data usage on the go and add more data if you seem to be outrunning your current limit. 

If you're not an expert at understanding chunky instructions, you'll love its setup process that takes you through the app step by step and even includes pictures to clearly illustrate what you need to do. 

If there's still something you need help understanding, there's built-in 24/7 message support, and the response time is quick and reliable. It doesn't have a live chat feature like most of the peers.

In conclusion, Nomad is a solid option for frequent travelers with its short-term packages at affordable prices and easy-to-set-up interface. With the commendable user-friendliness of this provider’s app and reliable customer support, it’s one of the best travel eSIMs. 

Read our full Nomad review.

Best eSIM for security

5. Instabridge

Instabridge has been around for a while, and its eSIM services are truly one to consider if you are looking for a safe and seamless internet connection. This is especially recommended if you're going to stay in one place for a long time — you can find plans that last up to a year.

It is the #1 app on iPhone for global internet access, and with access to more than 190 countries and over 200 million app downloads, you can guess that it's a hot pick among travelers.  However, you do not get any call minutes or SMS facility with Instabridge’s eSIM. Thus, you’ve to rely on Internet-based voice calls and texts — certainly not a deal-breaker.

If you are tight on budget but want to purchase a plan, you can score mobile data packages by watching ads on the app. The collection won't be too grand, of course, but it'll get you a decent data pack if you spend your free time on the app. 

The app in itself is pretty modern and intuitive. You can simply select the country you’re traveling to and choose the amount of data you need. Next, select the duration — one-time, monthly, or yearly. You’re done — simply make the payment and enjoy your internet.

Note that the website on the desktop version doesn't show all the local plans, so it's important to check the plans on the app if you don't find a suitable plan for you. You can pick between subscriptions and one-off plans depending on your needs. The website typically doesn’t show data plans for more than 30 days.

Customer support isn't always the fastest — it can take a few hours to get a reply if you're stuck in the middle of something. But you can look out for the FAQs and manuals to help you out, and the app is easy to use, too. So there are chances that you might not even need customer support.  

You can purchase multiple plans with the same eSIM, so there's no need to collect a hefty number of eSIMs if you're traveling to multiple places. For example, if you're going to visit the USA, Germany, and France over the holidays, you can just purchase a plan for each of these places and track the data usage of each of these packages through the app. 

Instabridge has a strong commitment to bringing the internet to everyone. For the same, it has decided to give away 1GB of data to someone in a developing nation for every 1 GB of data you purchase.

Concluding, Instabridge is a solid provider of data-only plans, a must-have for users who value security over anything.

Read our full Instabridge review.

Best eSIM for network coverage

BNESIM offers mobile data contracts in over 170 countries —greater than most providers in our list, like Nomad. You can rest assured that no matter which country you are traveling to, you will definitely find a plan or more with BNESIM. 

Where this provider wins against the competition is its “pay-as-you-go” plans. These are plans with no expiration date. For example, if you purchase the 1GB USA data plan for $6.73, you can use the plan as long as you do not exhaust the entire data without any time restriction. This is particularly helpful for users who use minimal data and end up wasting their data by the end of the plan. 

What I like about BNESIM is its diverse regional plans. It currently offers Regional plans in Asia, Europe, North America, South America, Oceania, the Middle East, and Africa. Apart from this, there are two unlimited data regional plans - something other providers don’t offer. 

1. BNESIM Infinity Europe

2. BNESIM Infinity Asia

For example, the Infinity Aisa plan covers 28 countries with options to purchase one-time, daily, and monthly plans. I found the “Daily Plan’ really useful in the modern data usage context. It offers a certain data limit for each day of the plan. For example, the 1GB daily data Asia plan costs just $8.85 — a steal, in my opinion.

I also found an extensive “Support” section on its website with guides on installing eSIMs on various devices, such as iPhone, iPad, and Android phones. Each of these guides includes pictures that make your job easier. Just like Airalo, BNESIM also partners with local networks to provide reliable bandwidth, which makes the network stronger in some areas.

However, if you’re looking for a longer-duration plan, BNESIM doesn’t get the job done. With a maximum validity of 30 days, their plans primarily focus on short-duration plans. Another weird thing about BNESIM is its “auto-renewal” feature — your plan will be auto-renewed at the end of the term. You’ll have to cancel the plan manually on its website or app.

All in all, BNESIM is an ideal choice for travelers looking for a flexible and cost-effective global roaming solution for frequent travel. 

Best eSIM for unlimited data

Holafly eSIM cards are among the few options offering unlimited data plans — you can send as many videos and photos with your family without worrying about the data limit. In the few countries that don't give unlimited data, it offers higher data limits than most other providers. 

In terms of duration, too, there's great flexibility. You can get plans that last 5, 10, 15, 20, 60, and 90 days. In short, there will always be a plan close to the number of days you're traveling for in about 160 countries that Holafly caters to.

On the price front, Holafly is a little high-end, but it's worth the unlimited data and stress-free traveling it offers. For example, its 5-day unlimited data plan for the USA costs $19. It also offers regional plans. However, I found it tough to locate these plans on its website, as there’s no dedicated “Regional Plans” section as in some other websites like Nomad and Airhub.

Brands like Airalo are significantly cheaper than Holafly, but you will have to get top-up plans if you exhaust your data mid-journey, which can be troublesome if you travel alone and don't have anyone to provide you hotspot in the meanwhile. 

Installing the eSIM is also a breeze with Holafly. Simply scan the QR code you receive after purchasing a plan and follow the prompts. You will be guided through each step of the process, and the payment can be made through various portals like a credit card, debit card, PayPal, Google Pay, or Apple Pay. You can also use a code for manual installation if you don't want to scan the QR code. 

Holafly‘s customer support is one of the best in the market. You can expect a reply from them within less than a minute of entering your query. With language support in English, German, French, Italian, Japanese, and Spanish, you can easily access the 24/7 support via WhatsApp or chat. On top of that, there's a frequently asked questions section that will solve most of your queries regarding the installation of the eSIM. 

However, if you plan to buy a single Holafly eSIM for your family, thinking that the unlimited data plan will do the trick, beware. Holafly eSIM doesn't allow data sharing with other devices as of now. 

While Holafly has great data plans, it doesn't include calls with all plans or SMS service. Currently, you can make calls for up to 60 minutes and receive calls for up to 60 minutes in Europe, Spain, France, Italy, and Germany. However, I didn’t find this off-putting due to the sheer non-functionality of SMS and calls these days. You can always make calls or send texts through Holafly’s unlimited Internet ( WhatsApp , Skype, or other apps).   Use code TECHRADAR to get 5% off.  

Read our full Holafly review.

Best eSIM for beginners

Saily is a newcomer in the eSIM market that’s quickly gaining popularity among budget-conscious travelers looking for a straightforward and reliable service. Launched in 2024 by Nord Security, the company behind the well-known NordVPN, Saily offers competitive pricing and a user-friendly app that makes it an attractive choice for those new to eSIMs.

One of Saily's standout features is its affordable data plans, with prices starting at just $1.65 for 20GB of data. This makes it an excellent option for travelers who want to stay connected without breaking the bank. Saily's plans are country-specific, meaning you'll need to purchase a separate plan for each destination you visit. While this may be less convenient for those traveling to multiple countries, it allows for more customized pricing based on local network costs.

Saily's coverage spans over 150 countries, including popular destinations like the United States, Thailand, Japan, Malaysia, and India. The company partners with local providers to ensure reliable connections and fast data speeds in most regions. However, I found that Saily's coverage is slightly more limited compared to some of its competitors, such as Airalo.

But where Saily really shines is its commitment to simplicity. The app's minimalistic design and intuitive interface make it easy for even first-time eSIM users to navigate. The installation process is straightforward, with clear on-screen instructions guiding users through purchasing plans and activating their eSIMs. 

While Saily may not offer as many features as some of its more established competitors, it excels at providing a streamlined and hassle-free experience. The app's clean layout makes it easy to track your data usage and top up your plan when needed. And if you do run into any issues, Saily offers 24/7 customer support via live chat within the app, ensuring you can get help whenever you need it.

In summary, Saily is an excellent choice for travelers who prioritize affordability and simplicity. With its competitive pricing, user-friendly app, and reliable coverage, it's a strong contender in the growing eSIM market. While it may not have the most extensive feature set or country coverage, Saily's focus on delivering a seamless user experience makes it a compelling option for budget-conscious globetrotters.

Read our full Saily review.

Best eSIM for global plans

9. GlobaleSIM

GlobaleSIM provides global and local data plans for travelers and tourists in more than 150 countries, and you get extendable coverage with over 400 network carriers. It was among the first providers of eSIM when it first launched in 2016.

There are four broad plans that GlobaleSIM offers:

1. Most Popular Plan - available in 63 countries

2. Most Popular+ Plan - available in 93 countries

3. Special Plan - available in 115 countries

4. Special + Plan - available in 143 countries

For example, its “Most Popular Plan” starts at $3.00 for 500MB of data for 5 days. You also get the option of adding call minutes to your plan and selecting either a US, a UK, or a Canadian number. As there are several countries being covered under a single plan, you obviously cannot expect to get a local number to the place you're visiting, and since there's no roaming charge, a US, UK, or Canadian number isn't that bad, too, after all.

Many eSIM providers ask you to create an account before purchasing, but this one doesn't. You just have to fill out the required information, like your name, surname, and email address, and you're done. You can complete your payment via either PayPal or a credit card.  

However, I couldn’t find many single-country plans on GlobaleSIM. Even for a popular destination like the US, you’ll have to get a bundled plan that includes both the US and Canada. Moreover, despite being in the market for so long, it's a little disappointing that the provider doesn't have an application of its own, so you'll have to purchase the eSIM directly from the website. 

Unlike most other providers in the market, GlobaleSIM doesn't have chat support, the only way that you can connect to them is through emails, and the response time isn't as fast as chat support either. 

At first, you won't even find customer service or a way to get in touch with them on the front page of the website or while skimming through plans. You will have to go all the way down the page to find it. Simply put, the customer support is disappointing. 

All in all, GlobaleSIM is a great eSIM to consider if you're looking for a global plan that's easy to set up and purchase.  

Best eSIM for Europe

10. Holiday eSIM

Holiday eSIM is the best-prepaid service provider if you're traveling to Europe, with robust connections in every European country for high-speed data.  

What I like the most about this provider is that, unlike others, you get a French number with the eSIM. Its most popular plan includes unlimited calls and texts in Europe, 120 minutes of worldwide calling, and 1,000 texts. That's more than enough proposition for whatever your needs are. But of course, if all you are looking for is a data eSIM, you can also purchase the data-only packages it offers. 

The Orange holiday app is user-friendly and doesn't require any registration prior to installing the eSIM. All you have to do is install the eSIM, and the provider will automatically connect to the strongest local European mobile network provider in that area.  

Costing around $44.10 for 10GB of data with a validity of 14 days, you might argue that this isn't a cheap option. However, if you're looking to have amazing internet no matter which European street you are wandering on, this is worth the penny it costs.

Besides the European plan, there's also a competent data-only global plan with 6GB of data with a 15-day validity. What’s more — you can share your data as a hotspot, so if you want to work on your laptop while away, it won't be a problem. 

However, it doesn’t offer a lot of plan options. Thus, you do not have much flexibility, either in terms of the validity period or data limits. Moreover, I did not like the website interface as much as some other providers on our list. Finding your destination country is difficult — you’ll have to choose from a long list of options. Even when you do, you’ll find “Regional” and “Global” plans in every country. This essentially means that Holiday eSIM does not offer as many individual country plans. 

In conclusion, if you value your network connection more than your product's budget-friendliness, you should consider this for your European trip. While we're not trying to take away that this provider's plans will cost you more than the local plan you can buy from a local provider, there are also a few cheaper options that might work for you if your internet usage isn't a lot. 

Best eSIM for data-only plans

11. Flexiroam

eSIMs are an important part of Flexiroam's wide line of products, and it's one of the best data-only eSIM lines out there. You get access to more than 500 mobile networks worldwide through its partnership with Jersey Telecom, with multiple networks in a single place, meaning you are never limited to just one network with this one. 

When traveling, the eSIM automatically connects itself to the strongest network connection in that area for reliable and strong coverage no matter where you go.  If you still don't feel content with the connected network, you can manually switch to the provider of your choice and use it if you find that more comfortable. 

Most providers like Airalo and BNESIM work with one single provider in one area, and it’s possible that the local provider might not be the best for the area you're visiting. This is never the issue with Flexiroam.

There are more than 700 eSIM plans to choose from. However, these plans aren’t as neatly categorized as some other providers. You’ll have to select from a long drop-down list when looking for individual country plans.

Its regional plans are a mixed bag of chocolates. While there are two unique regional plans - Greater Europe and Greater China, I couldn’t find a regional plan for Asia that is offered by almost every other competitor. If you’re on an Asian trip, you’ll want to look at some other eSIMs on our list.

Having said that, Flexiroam is among the few providers that include plans for less than 7 days, and unlike Holafly, it allows data sharing through both tethering and Hotspot. So if you're traveling in a group, you can just buy a single pack and share it with your entire group.

Being a data-only eSIM, you don't get a phone number to call in case there's a network coverage issue and your internet stops working. This can usually be a problem if you're traveling to remote places.

In conclusion, Flexiroam is definitely worth your bucks if you are looking for a data-only eSIM for its affordability and wider network coverage.  

Read our full Flexiroam review.

Best eSIMs for international travel FAQs

What is an esim  .

eSIMs are digital SIM cards already embedded in your mobile device. They are small rewritable chips fixed inside your phone, which connect with an antenna to eliminate the need for a physical SIM. 

Since an eSIM is rewritable, you can change your operator with just a simple setting change. The antenna connects to whichever network you select, so there’s no need to purchase a new SIM. 

eSIMs have been around for quite some time. But when Apple decided to remove the good old SIM card slot and shift the iPhone to being completely eSIM-featured, this feature got its moment in the spotlight. The main reason eSIMs are preferred is because of their ease of use.

Some other reasons why eSIMs have gained popularity include environmental sustainability, reduced battery consumption, and the ability to switch networks on the fly in remote areas.

While there’s no major difference between using an eSIM card and a physical SIM card, eSIMs could be a slight turnoff when you want to switch phones. That said, the benefits of eSIM certainly outweigh physical SIM cards in most scenarios.

Why should I get an eSIM for international travel?  

Now that we know what an eSIM is, let’s dive into why it’s so beneficial for international travel. The best thing about them is that you can store as many as eight (sometimes even more) on your phone and activate them when needed without additional roaming charges. 

Of course, if your current network operator provides free roaming service, there's no need to consider a travel-specific or local SIM. But if that's not the case, it can be quite a task to find the right operator and negotiate with language barriers.

eSIMs are also generally more secure than physical SIMs since there’s no way to remove them, so they can’t get lost. And if your phone gets lost or stolen, tracking it is much easier since eSIMs cannot be removed from the device. 

Note that international roaming works the same way on physical SIMs and eSIMS. The only difference that sets the two apart is that while you can add only two physical SIMs at a time, you can conveniently purchase an eSIM from a local carrier and switch your eSIM operators as you visit multiple locations. 

Is my phone compatible with eSIM?  

Most phones manufactured after 2018 are compatible with eSIMs, except for a few exceptions depending on the location and carrier. IPhone XS, XS Max, and XR are among the first eSIM-compatible iPhones that came out in 2018. 

Follow these steps to see if your iOS is eSIM compatible and carrier unlocked:

• Go to Settings > General > About
• Scroll down to find the Carrier Lock section
• If your device is unlocked, it will show "No SIM restrictions" If that's not the case, you need to unlock your device first. 
• If you have an iOS 15 or later, Scroll down to "Available SIM" and if you have earlier iOS versions, find "Digital SIM"
• If your phone supports eSIMs, it will show a 15-digit IMEI number 

The following are the latest models that support eSIM: 

• iPhone 12 Pro
• iPhone 12 Mini
• iPhone 12 Pro Max
• iPhone 13 Pro
• iPhone 13 Mini
• iPhone 13 Pro Max
• iPhone SE 3 (2022)
• iPhone 14 Pro
• iPhone 14 Plus
• iPhone 14 Pro Max

You can also use eSIMs on the following iPads: 

• iPad Pro 11″ (model A2068 onwards)
• iPad Air (model A2123 onwards)
• iPad Pro 12.9″ (model A2069 onwards)
• iPad (model A2198 onwards)
• IPad 10th generación (2022)
• iPad Mini (model A2124 onwards)

For Android numbers, it is best to check with the manufacturer if your device is compatible with eSIM. This, too, depends on the model, place of manufacturing, and the carrier used for the Android device.  

Another way to check is by going to the settings > Network & Internet and tapping on the "eSIM cards". If you find a "Download a SIM instead?" option, your device is eSIM-compatible 

You can also check if your phone has an EID (Embedded Identity Document Number), which is the serial number that matches with the eSIM embedded in your device. 

• Dial *#06# and press call
• If your device is eSIM-compatible, you'll be able to view your EID number

Some popular Android phones that support eSIMs include: 

• Samsung Galaxy S21 models
• Samsung Galaxy S22 models
• Samsung Galaxy Note 20
• Samsung Galaxy Fold Series
• Samsung Galaxy Z Flip Series
• Samsung Galaxy S23 models
• Google Pixel 7
• Google Pixel 6
• Google Pixel 4
• Google Pixel Fold
• Google Pixel 3 XL
• Huawei P40 Series
• Oppo Reno 5A
• Oppo Find X5
• Sony Xperia 1 V
• Xiaomi 13 Series
• Sony Xperia 10 III Lite
• Motorola Edge+
• Motorola Razr 2019

Note that this isn’t an exhaustive list — it’s only an indicative list of popular smartphones that support eSIMs. In case you do not find your phone year, check with your manufacturer. 

How to choose the best eSIM for international travel 

While all the providers have something or the other to offer,  it's important to know the factors that make an eSIM the best among them. 

1. Which place are you traveling to?

It's important to check the network coverage of an eSIM in the place you're visiting. eSIM providers often offer amazing coverage in particular countries but mediocre performance in others. This is because eSIMs collaborate or partner with local service providers in different countries to enhance network coverage. So make sure that you check the service of the local provider that's accessible to you and select the eSIM provider that has coverage to the place you're traveling to. 

Depending on the number of places you are going to visit, you can select local, regional, and global eSIMs. Here's how they differ:

• Local eSIM — you should go for this eSIM if you're traveling to just one country. For example, if you're traveling to Paris, you can get a local France eSIM.
• Regional eSIM — This is a perfect option if you're going to travel to a couple of countries within the same region. Let’s say you're planning a Europe trip; in that case, instead of buying a local SIM for each country, it’s a lot more convenient to get a regional eSIM that will work on all the countries in Europe you're visiting.
• Global eSIM — global eSIM allows you to connect several countries all over the world, which is perfect if you're going to travel worldwide or counties that are in different regions.

How much data will you need?

If your data requirements are ambitious, you should preferably look for a cheap eSIM or one that provides unlimited data. On the other hand, if your data needs aren't too demanding, but you need internet in remote places, you might have to shell out a bit more for quality internet. To get an idea of how much data different apps use up, have a look at this: 

• Google Maps: 5MB per hour
• Social Media: 50MB per hour
• Internet Browsing: 50MB per hour
• Online Gaming: 70+MB per hour
• Streaming Music: 100MB per hour
• SD Video: 1GB per hour
• HD Video: 4GB per hour
• 4K Video: 7GB per hour

3. How long will you be abroad?

All eSIM providers have different validity options — you can choose between 7, 10, 15, 30, 60, 90-day plans, and so on. Find a plan with a validity period that outlines how long you're going to be using the eSIM. 

Some eSIM providers provide plans shorter than 7 days; look out for them if you're going to be away for the weekend. On the other hand, if your data usage is moderate, but you are traveling for longer periods, an unlimited plan might be the best for you. 

How does an eSIM work?

An eSIM card or embedded SIM card is a chip in your phone that lets you connect to a network by simply downloading an eSIM profile and activating it without having to swap the SIM card physically. 

eSIMs function similarly to physical cards — the only difference is that the card, instead of being inserted into the devices, can now be downloaded through an Android or iOS app and activated by scanning a QR code. 

It is very easy to install an eSIM into the devices that are compatible with it. You can use multiple operators simultaneously and add several data plans according to your needs, as there's no physical space required to limit the number. 

You just have to change the profile to switch between one eSIM to another. This way, you can find the network in another eSIM if one SIM doesn't have a network. You can even have one SIM each for business and personal purposes.  

Since eSIMs can be updated electronically, providers in the US and UK are using eSIMs for the Internet of Things, adding a mobile network to almost anything that could use one, like cars and traffic lights.

While all the latest Apple devices are eSIM-compatible, most Android devices are also catching up. For example, the new Motorola Razr doesn't have a physical SIM card slot and only supports eSIM. Google Pixel phones and other Android devices, including laptops and tablets, have started providing eSIMs too. 

If you have already set up eSIM Carrier Activation, follow these steps to activate your SIM:

• On turning on your phone, you will find a notification appearing that says "Carrier Cellular Plan Ready to Be Installed", tap on it.
• If it doesn't pop up right away, In the Settings app, tap Carrier Cellular Plan Ready to Be Installed.
• You will find a "Continue" at the bottom of the screen. After that, the plan must have been activated.
• Make a call on your iPhone to check its cellular connectivity.
• If you're unable to make the call, contact your carrier. If the plan you activated replaces the plan on your physical SIM, your eSIM has been activated. Now remove your physical SIM. Then restart your iPhone.
• After this, your eSIM will actively run on your phone, and you can use it along with your physical SIM cards too. This will especially be appreciated by those who don't like to give away their phone numbers when traveling abroad.

Can I use more than one eSIM provider when traveling abroad? 

Yes, you can use more than one eSIM, depending on whether you use Android or iOS. When traveling, you’d want to use at least two SIMs simultaneously so that you don't lose touch with the older SIM contact when using the new local SIM. 

iPhones can store up to 5-10 eSIMs on the device, depending on the exact model. For example, the iPhone 13 Pro Max, iPhone 13 Pro, iPhone 13, and iPhone 13 Mini allow you to use two eSIMs simultaneously. On the flip side, you can use only one eSIM with iPhone 12 models, iPhone 11 models, iPhone XS, iPhone XS Max, and iPhone XR.

Similarly, Androids can also store 5-7 eSIMs on the device. However, you can only activate and use one eSIM at a time. 

This makes your work a lot easier. Suppose you’re traveling to Asia and Europe within a short span of time; you can purchase two eSIMs on your device. Simply activate the eSIM once you transition from one destination to another. This is more convenient compared to traditional SIMs, where you would have had to physically purchase a SIM at every destination you visit.

Traditional phones generally feature a maximum of 2 SIM cards in devices with dual SIM slots. In devices like iPhones that usually don't have a dual SIM feature, you will have to get a student device if you wish to use more than one SIM at once. 

How to set up and activate an eSIM on iOS

Devices like the iPhone XS, iPhone XS Max, iPhone XR, or later support eSIM. And recently, it completely ditched the physical SIM card slot in all the US models of iPhone 14. While other countries still have the SIM card slot, Apple has made it clear that it will soon completely get rid of the physical SIM card.  

Note that Apple’s eSIM feature is not yet available in mainland China and a few parts of Hong Kong and Macao. But if you have an Android device, eSIMs are still an option on your visit to China.

Setting up and activating an eSIM is super easy if you follow the instructions below:

• On your iOS device, follow Settings > Cellular > Add Cellular Plan. If this doesn't work, try Settings > Mobile Data > Add eSIM.
• Click on the “Transfer from Nearby iPhone” option. At this point, remember that both iPhones have to be on iOS 16 for this to work.
• You will find instructions on the old model to help you through the process. Either tap the transfer button or enter the verification code on the older phone, which will be sent to the new iPhone.
• Once you transfer the eSIM to the newer iPhone, it is deactivated from your old device, and your carrier will send you a notification to complete the setup on your new iPhone.

QR code support:

• If your carrier has issued you a QR code, you can simply select “Use QR Code” while setting up the new iPhone.
• You can find the “Use QR Code” option under Settings > Mobile Data > Add eSIM. 

How to set up and activate an eSIM on Android?

Most new smartphone models like the Samsung Galaxy series and Google Pixel have eSIM capabilities. 

Once you’ve confirmed that your specific Android device supports eSIMs, you can obtain the activation kit from your provider and install it by following the steps below:

• Go to Settings > Connections > SIM Card Manager on your Android phone. Tap “Add Mobile Plan”.
• If you have a QR code, select “Scan Operator QR code” and scan the code with your phone's camera. If entering manually, select “Enter Activation Code” and carefully type in the code from your carrier.
• Your phone will take a minute or two to download the eSIM profile and register it on the network. Once complete, tap “OK”.
• To manage your eSIM, go back to SIM Card Manager in your Android device’s settings. From there you can view your eSIM info, select your active SIM, and continue adding additional eSIMs.

Many of the eSIM providers on this list also provide device-specific guides to help you get started quickly. If you feel lost, just check their knowledge bases for more details!

Are eSIM better than physical SIM cards?  

eSIMs offer several advantages over traditional SIM cards. They provide greater flexibility, convenience, and security for users — all while saving device space and reducing battery consumption.

While the technology is still relatively new and not universally supported yet, eSIMs will likely become the standard in the coming years as more devices and carriers adopt it. 

Here’s an overview of some key advantages of using an eSIM:

Seamless Activation

One of the biggest advantages of eSIMs is the ease of activation and switching between carriers. With an eSIM, you can activate service or change providers with just a few taps on your device, without having to go to a store to get a physical SIM. 

This makes it much more convenient, especially when traveling internationally.

Increased Security

eSIMs offer enhanced security compared to physical SIMs. They cannot be physically removed or stolen from a device, reducing the risk of unauthorized access or SIM cloning. Some eSIMs even have self-destructing features that erase data after failed authentication attempts

Designs Options

Since eSIMs are embedded directly into devices and don't require a separate slot, they free up valuable space inside smartphones. This allows manufacturers to make devices slimmer, include larger batteries, or add other features. The lack of a removable SIM tray also improves water and dust resistance.

Multiple Profiles

A single eSIM can store multiple carrier profiles, allowing you to switch between them as needed. This is especially useful if you want to use separate lines for work and personal use on a single phone, or if you frequently travel and need to use local service in different countries. 

With an eSIM, you can do this without juggling multiple physical SIM cards.

Reliable Connectivity

eSIMs can provide more reliable connectivity than physical SIM cards. SIM cards can come loose, get damaged, or degrade over time, potentially leading to signal issues. The embedded nature of eSIMs makes them less prone to these physical connectivity problems.

Environmental Sustainability

Switching to eSIMs offers significant environmental benefits compared to using physical SIM cards. eSIMs eliminate the need for plastic SIM card production, packaging, and transportation, reducing the telecom industry's carbon footprint.

By enabling remote provisioning and digital distribution of SIM profiles, eSIMs also cut down on the need for users to travel to stores for activation or changes, further decreasing emissions.

Are there any risks to using eSIMs? 

eSIMs are no more dangerous than physical SIM cards. They both employ the same encryption methods and security protocols to protect user data. The only possible security disadvantage of eSIMs is that they are a relatively new technology and some users may find the setup process more complex.

But, in many cases, eSIMs may actually be safer. Unlike physical SIMs, eSIMs cannot be physically removed or tampered with, reducing the risk of SIM cloning or unauthorized SIM swapping. Because they are a more recent technology, eSIMs also have additional security features like remote provisioning and encrypted communications, which make them safer to use.

All that said, eSIMs are not infallible. Just like physical SIM cards, they can be hacked into by an attacker with enough skills and determination. As an eSIM user, you can protect yourself by using strong unique passwords, keeping your eSIM software updated, and only downloading profiles from trusted sources.

Final verdict 

eSIMs have, undoubtedly, made traveling much easier. With affordable plans, excellent connections, and various validity options to choose from, eSIMs are the future of telecommunication. 

The only question is — which eSIM should you purchase? If you do not require voice call minutes (which I believe most wouldn’t), Airalo is your best bet. It has a lot of plan options to choose from, with validities as long as 180 days. It offers affordable local plans in as many as 200 countries, besides 7 regional plans and a value-for-money global plan. And since it partners with local network providers, you can rest assured of seamless connectivity as well. 

If you do want to make voice calls and send text messages, Airhub should be your go-to option. It offers plans in more than 190 countries, with more than 15 plans to select from in most countries. Like Airalo, it is also a value-for-money proposition and wouldn’t cost you a fortune.

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Krishi covers buying guides and how-to's related to software, online tools, and tech products here at TechRadar. Over at Tom's Guide, he writes exclusively on VPN services. You can also find his work on Techopedia and The Tech Report. As a tech fanatic, Krishi also loves writing about the latest happenings in the world of cybersecurity, AI, and software.

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The Best eSIMs for International Travel

Last year, my friends came to visit us to the Canary Islands, while we were nomading in these beautiful European arcipelago. Fresh off the plane in Tenerife, my friend Marta was all set to hunt down a local SIM card. The thought alone of queuing up for a piece of plastic made me cringe. She had no idea that the rest of us were already connected, thanks to eSIMs .

Between my friends and I, we had picked two different eSIM providers to suit our unique travel needs, leaving our friend Marta more confused than ever on which one to purchase. So today, just as we did with Marta, we're going to lay out the most reliable and cost-effective eSIM options to keep you connected.

We'll go over the top 8 international eSim providers, giving you the right criteria on how to choose the best one for your international travel needs. If seamless connectivity sounds like your cup of tea, stick with us.

What are eSIMs and How Do They Work?

Switching SIM cards during international travels isn't just a personal inconvenience—it also holds up the entire group, especially when you're the only one not clued into the latest tech solutions. But there's a modern solution that's streamlining the process for travelers: eSIMs ( short for embedded SIMs) are changing how we stay connected.

Unlike traditional SIM cards, an eSIM is a handy digital SIM cards built right into your smartphone, tablet , or smartwatch , just waiting to be activated. It performs all the functions of a traditional SIM card, but without the physical inconveniences.

Activating an eSIM is generally easy (but you'll need a good connection). Your device contains a special chip where a carrier's information can be downloaded directly. This means you can select an eSIM plan online or through an app, activate it, and be connected in no time.

The magic is in the fact that you can easily switch between carriers or data plans without needing a new physical SIM card .

As international travelers ourselves, we think the flexibility and convenience this brings goes beyond. And newer phones can juggle an eSIM and a physical SIM, letting you keep a home number active while exploring the world.

Are eSIMs Worth It for International Travel?

International travel brings its set of challenges, and staying connected is a major one of them. The question everyone keeps asking us is whether switching to an eSIM is a better choice than sticking with the traditional physical SIM card. Here’s a closer look at what makes eSIMs a smart option for globetrotters:

• Ease of Use: The days of juggling tiny SIM cards and scouring for a paperclip or earrings to open your SIM tray are over. eSIMs allow you to change your carrier or plan directly on your device, simplifying how you stay connected.
• Stay Flexible on the Go: Imagine landing in a new country and instantly subscribing to a local data plan, all while keeping your home SIM active for calls and texts. eSIMs make this seamless, effectively putting an end to costly roaming charges.
• Dual SIM Capability: The latest smartphones have embraced the dual SIM technology, incorporating both an eSIM and a physical SIM slot. This dual capacity means you can manage two numbers or data plans simultaneously, which, if you ask us, is great for separating work and personal use.

Disadvantages

• Limited Carrier Compatibility: The catch with eSIMs is that not every network provider has jumped on this technology yet. Depending on your destination, you might find the eSIM options somewhat limited.
• Device Compatibility: Not all smartphones are eSIM-ready. Before you set your heart on making the switch, make sure to check if your device is eSIM-compatible .

What Are The Best eSIM for International Travel?

• Image: /content/images/2023/07/airalo-logo.webp
• Title: Airalo
• Description: Best for Truly Global Coverage
• Target: 1-airalo
• Price: 4.50-100+
• Link: https://airalo.px.io/PjyQ1z
• Image: /content/images/2023/07/holafly-logo.png
• Title: Holafly
• Description: Best for Heavy-Data Users
• Target: 2-holafly
• Price: 6-99+
• Link: https://esim.holafly.com/?ref=2yountk&discount=FREAKINGNOMADS&utm_source=freakingnomads&utm_medium=affiliation
• Image: /content/images/2023/07/nomad-logo-black.webp
• Title: Nomad
• Description: Best for Wide Variety of Plans
• Target: 3-nomad
• Price: 4-99+
• Link: https://www.getnomad.app/?rfsn=7460813.661b80&ref=freakingnomads.com
• Image: /content/images/2024/04/alosim-logo.webp
• Title: aloSIM
• Description: Best for Budget-Conscious Travelers
• Target: 4-alosim
• Price: 4.5-50+
• Link: https://alosim.com/?_ef_transaction_id=&oid=3&affid=70&ref=freakingnomads.com
• Image: /content/images/2024/05/jetpac-logo.png
• Title: Jetpac
• Description: Best for the Well-Connected Traveler
• Target: 5-jetpac
• Price: 1-60
• Link: https://circleslife.pxf.io/DKmX0o
• Image: /content/images/2023/07/bne-logo.png
• Title: BNESIM
• Description: Best for International Numbers
• Target: 6-bnesim
• Price: 0.98-99+
• Link: https://bnes.im/8JBE
• Image: /content/images/2023/07/sim-options-logo.png
• Title: SimOptions
• Description: Most Comprehensive Choice
• Target: 7-simoptions
• Price: 4.5-99+
• Link: https://www.simoptions.com/?utm_medium=wpam_id_526
• Image: /content/images/2024/03/yesim-esim-logo.png
• Title: Yesim
• Description: Best Pay-As-You-Go Global Plans
• Target: 8-yesim
• Price: 9.90-90+
• Link: https://yesim.onelink.me/W9Wz/100553
• Image: /content/images/2023/12/gigsky-esim--3--1.webp
• Title: Gigsky
• Description: Best for Flexibility
• Target: 9-gigsky
• Price: 5.99-175+
• Link: https://gigsky.px.io/q4LozN

Best for Truly Global Coverage

Airalo steps up as one of our go-tos for international travel, offering a range of plans that cater to short trips and extended stays too , with flexible and affordable plans. Its coverage spans over 200 countries , making it a versatile choice for nearly any destination.

We recently gave Airalo a spin on our travels to Thailand, Portugal, the Canary Islands, Georgia, and even Morocco. Honestly, Georgia threw us for a loop—in a good way. It didn't matter whether we were exploring Tbilisi or hiking in the Caucasus Mountains, the signal strength was solid. And no, having reliable internet in those mountain regions is not something to take for granted.

Not to mention, they know how to keep you glued to their service: every time you purchase an eSIM from them, you get Airmoney , which you can then use to purchase future plans. Trust us, those loyalty points quickly add up ! In general, the whole experience is super user-friendly and their app makes purchasing, monitoring and topping up your eSIM a piece of cake.

Specifications

• Coverage: 200+ countries, 7 regions, 1 global plan
• Price: Starting from $4.50
• Devices supported : iOS, Android
• Allows hotspotting and tethering: Yes, but you may need to set up the APN settings for your eSIM to enable this feature.

How To Install Airalo eSim

To learn more about Airalo, read our full Airalo review below:

Best for Heavy-Data Users

Then there's Holafly , making a strong case for international travelers venturing into the US (or beyond), offering not just connectivity but the freedom of unlimited data . Don't you worry, though, they also have plans for Europe, Asia, Africa and Oceania .

We'd say Holafly really stands out for those of us who can’t get enough of streaming, sharing, and endlessly browsing without worrying about hitting a dreaded data limit. That was us, traveling through Malaysia, Turkey, and Spain, with Holafly as our digital lifeline.

In Malaysia, the connection was so smooth, we binged the final episodes of Inventing Anna during a long bus ride from Kuala Lumpur to Georgetown. Then in Turkey, we were those tourists—you know, video calling friends and family from every nice spot we found. Though we did hit a snag there, streaming videos wasn't as seamless, with a bit of lag that tested our patience.

With plans covering various regions, competitive pricing, and quick 24/7 customer service, Holafly is definitely a reliable choice for international travelers and digital nomads alike.

• Coverage: 177+ countries, 6 regions, including unlimited data plans in some countries, and 1 global plan
• Price: Starting from $6
• Allows hotspotting and tethering: Some of their eSIM plans (e.g. Europea plans), but not all of them.

How to Install Holafly eSIM

To install Holafly eSIM, check out our easy and detailed eSIM instructions for Android and iPhone .

To learn more about Holafly, read our full Holafly review below:

Best for Wide Variety of Plans

Nomad  shines for those of us who crave the freedom to choose exactly what we need, when we need it. They've got a menu that's hard to beat: more than 170 country-specific plans for those deep dives into one place, global packages for the border-crossers among us, and even unlimited data options for the truly insatiable data guzzlers.

We took Nomad through the eclectic streets of Bangkok, and the markets of Tel Aviv, finding that it kept us seamlessly connected in each unique setting.

They might not blanket as many countries as Airalo, but Nomad brings its own charm to the table with the option for SMS-only plans —a lifesaver for sending quick updates when data or WiFi is overkill.

Their adaptability really sweetens the deal: we've paused our plan when we're back home dreaming up the next escape and then reactivated it the moment our feet hit new ground . Plus, their app and website make the whole process—from activation to daily management—a walk in the park.

• Coverage: 170+ countries, 12 regions
• Price: Starting from $4
• Allows hotspotting and tethering: Some of their eSIM plans, but not all of them.

How To Install Nomad eSIM

Best for Budget-Conscious Travelers

aloSIM steps into the ring as the go-to for budget-savvy travelers who don’t want to compromise on staying connected, no matter where they are in the world. With a footprint in over 170 countries , aloSIM makes sure you are just a tap away from the internet. It was a trusted companion when we tested it, soaking in the sun on a remote beach in Mexico.

Special shout-out to how user-friendly their app is. Buying plans, checking data usage, or topping up are tasks you can do half-asleep or on a bumpy bus ride without a second thought. Then there’s also the fact that most aloSIM packages now come with a  free international HUSHED phone number . You'll be able to pick a phone number with a Canadian or American area code , and it will work for calls and texts anywhere on the globe (the first 30 calling minutes or 50 texts are free ). The phone number also lasts as long as you have data service. Pretty cool, huh?

• Coverage: 170 countries, 11 regions
• Allows hotspotting and tethering: Yes
• Calls and texts : Yes, thanks to the addition of a HUSHED phone number

How to Install aloSIM eSIM

Best for the Well-Connected Traveler

The next one on our list isn't your average eSIM. Jetpac is an all-in-one upgrade for international travelers. Backed by the telecom powerhouse Circles.Life , they've teamed up with top-notch carriers around the globe (think KDDI, Vodafone , Claro, AT&T and Verizon ), scoring you some of the best bang-for-your-buck rates in areas like the US, EU, and Japan, where you'll be able to count on lightning-fast speeds.

But hold onto your boarding pass because Jetpac takes it up a notch with some seriously sweet perks . Delayed flight? No sweat–if your flight is delayed to more than 2 hours , you'll be able to relax with free lounge access . Lost in translation? They've got emergency hotlines to save the day. And forget constantly swapping eSIMs, as Jetpac is reusable , which means that with one download, you'll be able to have endless top-ups. Only downside? They are only available in 100+ countries , but they are a young company, so we wouldn't be surprised to see many countries added to their list soon.

• Coverage: 50+ countries
• Price: Starting from $1
• Other Perks: Free lounge access (when your flight is delayed 2+ hours), emergency hotlines

How to Install Jetpac eSIM

To learn more about Jetpac, read our full Jetpac review below:

Best for International Numbers

BNESIM hits the mark perfectly for those of us who need to stay connected in over 200 countries the globe. During our tests in Marrakech and New Zealand, BNESIM kept us in the loop without a hitch.

But here’s where BNESIM really stands out: aside from just data, they offer the chance to get local numbers in the places you visit. It’s really something, letting you sidestep those hefty roaming charges while making it easy peasy to book local experiences without juggling multiple SIM cards. Using their app is as straightforward as it gets, streamlining everything from purchasing to managing your plans.

For us, hopping from one country to the next without worrying about connectivity issues or outrageous fees has been liberating. The app's easy to use, making the management of eSIM plans hassle-free.

• Coverage: 200 countries, 9 regions, 1 global plan
• Price: Starting from $0.98
• Allows hotspotting and tethering: No

How to Install BNESIM eSIM on Android

How to Install BNESIM eSIM on iPhone

7. SimOptions

Best esim marketplace.

Yes, the name gives it away— SimOptions . This isn't really a provider per se, so think of them as your go-to buffet for eSIMs, where you can eyeball high-quality and affordable eSIM options without committing off the bat. It earned its spot on our list because of its marketplace, offering a broad selection of local and regional eSIM options across over 200 destinations , making the process easy for any traveler.

We tested SimOptions in both the US and Hungary and we've got nothing to say. What makes them a standout is their knack for partnering with some of the most reliable networks out there. This collaboration means they're able to dish out some seriously competitive plans and prices that are hard to beat. No marketing gimmicks or convoluted plans, just clear, concise options that let you pinpoint exactly what you need for your journey.

• Coverage: 200+ countries, 9 regions

How to Install SimOptions eSIM

To learn more about SimOptions, read our full SimOptions review below:

Best Pay-As-You-Go Global Plans

Yesim 's got your back if you're the kind of international traveler who doesn't like to plan every step (kind of like Marta). Covering over 120 countries , their plans are versatile and they even give you the option of purchasing virtual phone numbers (handy for when you need to make those restaurant reservations). Their app makes buying, activating and managing your data dead simple.

And if you're the kind of person who usually spreads the word about cool services, they have a referral program , rewarding you with "Ycoins" , which you can stash away for future data needs.

Their pay-as-you-go approach is gold for those "let's see where we end up" days, removing the pressure of guessing how much data you'll really use. We used their eSIM in London and it worked perfectly. Solid choice for us if you are going in major travel destinations.

• Coverage: 120+ countries, 10 regions, 1 global plan
• Price: Starting from $9.90

How to Install Yesim eSIM

To learn more about Yesim, read our full Yesim review below:

Best for Flexibility

GigSky ’s your go-to for straightforward, reliable data coverage, pretty much anywhere you land. They've made a name for themselves for being the first Apple eSIM partner (that's got to count for something) by offering simple, effective coverage in over 190 countries . Their plans are flexible, covering anything from a quick escape to a longer trek.

What makes them stand out is they keep you connected not just on land but also when you're flying or sailing . We actually got their eSIM during our time hopping in different Caribbean islands and their connectivity in that area of the globe was just impeccable. We thought that in places like the Dominican Republic where power cuts are not that rare, any eSIM would have struggled with the signal. But we were clearly wrong!

Plus, they are a full-on MVNO (mobile virtual network operator) which means they’ve got a bit more control over others to keep your connection smooth, rerouting as needed—a nice backup to have.

• Coverage: 190+ countries, 7 regions, 1 offshore, and 1 inflight
• Price: Starting from $5.99

How to Install GigSky eSIM

To learn more about GigSky, read our full GigSky review below:

Best eSIMs for Travel: Our Buying Guide

To put this into perspective, diving into the world of eSIMs feels a lot like trying to choose the right travel buddy: it's crucial, a bit daunting, but definitely exciting. After hopping from one country to another, we've gathered some real-talk advice to help you navigate this choice without the fluff.

How Should I Choose the Best eSIM for My Travels?

So, you’ve seen the lineup of eSIM providers, and it's quite the buffet, right? Picking one doesn't have to be a puzzle, though, and it's actually easier than you think. Here’s how to keep it straightforward, and the top things to keep in mind:

Where am I headed?

This one's key. Not every eSIM provider has got the globe fully covered. Some are great in certain regions, others have their networks sprawled out wider. Before anything else, make sure the eSIM you're eyeing matches your travel itinerary. Trust us, realizing your eSIM has no signal where you're at is not the surprise you want.

How long is my trip going to be?

How long you'll be away matters. Are you heading out for a quick weekend or a month-long escapade? eSIM plans are as varied as your destinations: short stays usually need less data , while longer journeys might have you leaning towards those heftier data packages. It’s all about matching the plan to your adventure's pace.

How much data will I need?

Be real about how much data you’ll munch through. If you just need to keep Google Maps and your inbox in check, a lighter plan ’s probably enough. But if you're planning to stream, share, and work on the go , you'll want to aim higher on data limits to dodge those extra charges.

Are All Devices Compatible With eSIMs?

Here's the kicker— not all devices are in the eSIM club yet . It’s a bummer, but checking your phone's compatibility before you purchase your eSIM is a must. But don't take our word for it, just peek under your device’s settings , if you spot anything about adding a cellular plan or an eSIM, you’re set.

Here's an overview of the most common brands that support eSIMs and a checklist on how to check if your device is eSIM ready:

eSIM Compatible iOS Devices

For the Apple crowd, if you’ve got anything iPhone XS and up or the latest iPads, you’re likely good to go.

Below are the latest Apple models that support eSIM:

• iPhone:  Most models from iPhone XS and newer (iPhone 11 and onwards have expanded compatibility), including the iPhone 15 Series (15, 15 Plus, 15 Pro, 15 Pro Max), the iPhone 14 Series (14, 14 Plus, 14 Pro, 14 Pro Max) and the iPhone 13 Series: (13, 13 Mini, 13 Pro, 13 Pro Max)
• iPad:  iPad Pro, iPad Air, and newer iPad models with Wi-Fi + Cellular features support eSIMs.

eSIM Compatible Android Devices

For the Android crew, here are the latest Android models that support eSIMs: 

• Samsung Galaxy S23 Series: Samsung Galaxy S23, S23+, S23 Ultra
• Samsung Galaxy S22 Series:  Samsung GalaxyS22, S22+, S22 Ultra
• Google Pixel 7 Series: Pixel 7, Pixel 7 Pro
• Google Pixel 6 Series: Pixel 6, Pixel 6 Pro
• Motorola models: Razr 2022, Razr 2019 and Razr 5G.
• Huawei models: P50 Series, P40, P40 Pro, Mate 40, and 50 Series.
• OPPO models: Find X3 Pro, Find X5, Find X5 Pro, and Reno A.
• SONY models: Xperia 5 V (and beyond), Xperia 1 V (and beyond), Xperia 10 III Lite, Xperia 10 IV, and Xperia 1 IV.

If your phone is not on the list or you want to be triple sure, just check with your manufacturer or follow the steps below :

How to Check if My iOS Device Supports eSIMs

• Go to your "Settings" app.
• Tap on "Cellular" or "Mobile Data".
• If you see an option like "Add Cellular Plan" or "Add eSIM", your device is compatible.

How to Check if My Android Device Supports eSIMs

• Open your "Settings" app.
• Look for "Connections" or "Network & Internet".
• Find "SIM Card Manager" or "SIMs".
• If "Add eSIM" shows up, your device is good to go!

Alternative ways to stay connected you may also be interested in:

Are eSIMs better than physical SIMs?

We definitely think so. Actually, we're big fans of eSIMs . We love being on the move but the joy of travel often comes with the less joyful task of fiddling with SIM cards—always poking around with a paperclip to swap them out. eSIMs feel like opening gifts on Christmas morning. No more tiny SIM cards to lose or swap. You just pick a plan, tap a few times on your phone, and you’re set to roam the streets of LA or trek through the Grand Canyon with your phone number from back home still active for those "wish you were here" calls. It's priceless.

But, to offer a clear comparison of eSIMs and physical SIMs, we've put together the table below:

So, What's the Best eSim Provider Then?

We're going to start off by being diplomatic, saying there's no "best" eSIM provider. They all come with their fair share of pros and cons. What we will say, though, is as digital nomads, we always find ourselves switching back and forth between Airalo and Holafly .

For two main reasons: they have proven themselves to be the most reliable on our travels , guaranteeing extensive coverage, offering flexible plans and their customer service has resolved occasional issues with us even in the middle of the night.

When it comes to short trips or leisure travel, we tend to opt for Airalo since its affordable and offers great coverage in over 200 countries (yup, in rural areas too).

When we have longer trips and are hopping from one country to the next, we lean towards Holafly , their unlimited data plans in most destinations really do it for us.

This is just our experience, though. Everyone has different needs and you'll find your go-to provider after exploring various options. So here's a piece of friendly advice: don't shy away from testing out different providers to find your perfect match.

Take our trip to the US as an example: I opted for Holafly (the unlimited data was impossible to ignore for work purposes), my buddies Simone and Andrea went with Airalo (making good use of their accumulated Airmoney for a free eSIM). While Marta was so skeptical, he went for the pay-as-you-go plan , having no idea how much he'd actually need. Four travelers, three different providers, four unique sets of data needs.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions) About eSims

What is an esim profile.

An eSIM profile is the information that's programmed into the eSIM by a carrier. This profile contains all the details needed for the device to connect to a network, such as the operator identifier and authentication keys.

How many profiles can I have on an eSIM?

The number of profiles you can have on an eSIM depends on your device. Some devices allow you to store multiple profiles, but only one can be active at a time.

How do I activate my eSIM?

To activate your eSIM, you'll typically need to scan a QR code provided by your eSIM provider. This can usually be done in the device's settings. Some carriers may also allow you to enter the details manually or directly in the app like Airalo do (it's our favorite option to activate an eSIM).

Is the activation immediate?

Yes, once you've scanned the QR code or entered the details, the eSIM should generally activate immediately. Sometimes, you might need to restart your phone to make it work (it happened to us a few times!).

When will I receive my eSIM?

Since eSIMs are digital, you should receive them as soon as your carrier sends you the QR code or activation details. This is typically done via email or through the carrier's app.

Where can I find my eSIM activation code?

Your eSIM activation code is typically provided by your carrier. It may be included in the QR code you scan to activate the eSIM, or it may be sent to you separately.

I cannot scan the QR Code, what do I do?

If you're having trouble scanning the QR code, try manually entering the details provided by your eSIM provider or, if you are using Airalo, use their app. If you're still having issues, contact your carrier for assistance.

Is my device compatible with an eSIM?

Not all devices are compatible with eSIM. Most newer smartphones and tablets support eSIM, but it's best to check your device's specifications or contact the manufacturer to be sure.

Do eSIMs come with a number to make or receive calls?

Yes, eSIMs can come with a phone number, allowing you to make and receive calls, just like a traditional SIM card. However, this depends on the plan you choose.

Can eSIM plans combine data and voice and/or SMS calls?

Yes, many eSIM plans offer a combination of data, voice, and SMS services. The specifics will depend on the plan and carrier.

Are eSIMs more sustainable?

Yes, eSIMs are generally considered more sustainable than traditional SIM cards. They reduce the need for physical cards, which can contribute to electronic waste.

Can my prepaid eSIM incur additional charges?

Typically, prepaid eSIMs have a set amount of data, calls, or texts, and you can't go over this limit, so you shouldn't incur additional charges. However, if you purchase additional services or if your plan has certain fees or charges, you may incur additional costs. Always check the details of your plan.

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Heymondo Review: Is It a Good Travel Insurance?

How to beat your post-travel depression: your guide to feeling better, how to create a healthy work-life balance while working remotely.

Complete Guide: Best eSIM For International Travel

by Melissa Giroux | Last updated Apr 30, 2024 | SIM Cards , Travel Tips

eSIMs are becoming more and more popular as people become more and more mobile.

But with so many eSIM providers and apps to choose from, it can be hard to know which one is the best for your needs.

This comparison guide will help you find the best eSIM for international travel .

We’ll look at what to consider when choosing the best eSIM provider, and then we’ll recommend our top picks for international travel.

So, whether you’re looking for the best global eSIM for travel or need a basic plan, we have you covered.

We’ll also feature some of the best eSIM deals available right now with our exclusive promo codes.

Quick Overview Best Travel eSIMs

Looking for a quick answer? Here are the three top eSIM providers for international travel.

• Airalo : Perfect for travelers looking for short-term and long-term options worldwide. (My pick)
• Holafly : Great options with several unlimited plans.
• Nomad : Offers a variety of country and global plans, as well as unlimited data plans in some destinations.

Before we dive deeper, if you’re new to eSIM, let’s see what an eSIM is.

❓ What Is An eSIM?

eSIM is a type of SIM card that is embedded in your device. You don’t need a physical SIM card, which makes it more convenient for people who travel frequently.

eSIMs are also becoming more common in smartphones, so if you’re looking to buy a new phone, eSIM might be an option for you.

There’s a catch! eSIMs are not yet universally supported. So before you switch to an eSIM, make sure your device is compatible.

Read our guide to learn the main differences between SIM cards and eSIM .

❓Which Devices Are Compatible With eSIM?

eSIM is currently supported on a few devices, including:

• Apple iPhone XS, XS Max, XR, 11, 12, 13, 14, and newer models.
• Google Pixel 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, and newer models.
• Samsung Galaxy S20, S21, S22, and newer models.
• Huawei P40, and newer models.

If you’re considering upgrading your phone soon, read about the best eSIM phones .

To verify if your device is compatible with eSIM , go to Settings and locate your International Mobile Equipment Identity (IMEI). This will tell you if your device supports eSIM.

Here’s how to do it add an eSIM on a Google Pixel device:

• Go to Settings.
• Go to Network and Internet
• Click on Add more
• Choose Download a SIM instead.
• Click on next.
• Scan the QR code.
• Name the eSIM.
• Pick the eSIM to provide data.
• Make sure the roaming is on.

🗒️ How To Choose The Best eSIM Provider For International Travel

Now that we know what an eSIM is, let’s look at how to choose the best travel eSIM provider for you.

There are a few factors to consider when choosing an eSIM provider, including:

• Coverage: Make sure the eSIM provider has good coverage in the countries you travel to. Some eSIM apps have local, regional, and international plans.
• Data: How much data do you need? You’ll need a plan with more data if you’re a heavy user.
• Speed: Not all eSIM providers offer the same speeds. If you need fast speed, make sure to choose a provider that offers them.
• Price: eSIM plans can vary in price, so consider your budget when choosing a provider. Some providers offer great eSIM deals too.

❓ Where To Buy An International eSIM?

International eSIMs for travel can be bought from a variety of places, including:

• eSIM providers: Many eSIM providers sell eSIMs directly from their websites. This is the most convenient option, as you can activate your eSIM immediately. Some of these eSIM apps also allow you to purchase a plan without data or WiFi.
• Carriers: If you’re already using a carrier, you may be able to buy an eSIM from them. It’s worth checking if your current carrier has its own eSIM plans.

So, how do you pick an eSIM provider?

Let us help! We’ll review the best eSIM for international travel below.

Airalo eSIM

Airalo is the most popular eSIM store and offers eSIMs in 200+ countries at affordable prices.

I’ve been using Airalo for a while now, and you can read our complete Airalo review to learn more about this eSIM provider.

Here’s how Airalo works:

• Create an account on Airalo .
• Download the app or use the desktop version.
• Choose your destination and preferred plan.
• Install your eSIM.
• Activate your eSIM.

Go to Airalo

Pros And Cons Of Using Airalo To Buy eSIM

Let’s take a look at the main pros and cons of Airalo.

• Coverage in 200+ countries.
• Short-term and long-term plans are available.
• Affordable prices.
• Offers local, regional, and global plans.
• The customer support is great and fast.
• No unlimited data plans available (a few exceptions)
• I had a few issues in the past, but customer support always fixed the issues quickly.

Airalo Offer

Get 10% off on your first purchase on Airalo by using my referral code: ABB10.

Get A Discount Now

Holafly eSIM

Holafly is an eSIM provider with eSIM plans for more than 190 destinations.

I tried Holafly in the past, so you can read our complete Holafly review to learn more.

Here’s how Holafly works:

• Pick a plan.
• You’ll receive an email with your eSIM.
• Scan the QR code to activate your eSIM.

Go to Holafly

Pros And Cons Of Using Holafly To Buy eSIM

Let’s take a look at the main pros and cons of Holafly.

• eSIMs are delivered via email immediately.
• Plans available for more than 190 countries.
• Supports both short-term and long-term plans.
• Offers lots of options with unlimited data.
• The customer support is fast (they answered me in 19 minutes).
• You get unlimited data plans in several countries and regions, which is excellent if you are a heavy user. However, some users reported that the speed could vary. This could mean you’ll get high speed first, and eventually, you’ll get a slower speed if you use too much data.
• You can’t always set up a hotspot with some plans, but some of them offer it. It’s worth checking out if you’re planning on using a hotspot.

Holafly Offer

Get 5% off your first purchase on Holafly with my referral code ABROKENBACKPACK.

Nomad offers data plans in 140+ countries. Their plans are in the Americas, Europe, and Asia.

They also have regional plans (global, Nordic, APAC, SEA-Oceania, and Europe). Keep reading to learn more.

I’ve tried Nomad, and it worked well.

Although, it’s not my favorite because they only have short-term plans (up to 60 days, but mostly 30 days).

Nomad offers fixed data plans and unlimited data plans, giving you many options to pick from.

Here’s how Nomad works:

• Pick a data plan.
• Install the eSIM by scanning the QR code.
• Activate your plan.

Go to Nomad

Pros And Cons Of Using Nomad To Buy eSIM

Let’s take a look at the main pros and cons of Nomad.

• Plans available in 100+ countries.
• Regional and global plans available.
• The website is very modern.
• Unlimited data plans in some destinations.
• All the reviews on the website are 5-star, which I find hard to believe. Nothing is perfect in this world.
• Short-term plans only (up to 30 days).

Nomad Offer

Get $3 off on your first purchase on Nomad by using my referral code: MELI23HJ.

SimCorner eSIM

SimCorner offers data plans in 80+ countries. They offer both prepaid SIM cards and eSIM plans. You can pick between a local and a regional plan depending on your travel plans.

I’ve tried SimCorner, and it worked great.

However, I needed to wait a few hours to receive my eSIM. If you wish to purchase an eSIM plan on SimCorner, I recommend buying it a few days before your trip. This way, you’ll have it on time for your trip.

Learn more by reading our SimCorner review .

Here’s how SimCorner works:

• Pick a data plan that suits your needs.
• Complete the purchase.
• Install the eSIM by scanning the QR code once you receive the eSIM via email.

Go to SimCorner

Pros And Cons Of Using SimCorner To Buy eSIM

Let’s take a look at the main pros and cons of SimCorner.

• SIM cards and eSIM plans available in 80+ countries.
• Local and regional plans available.
• High data limits for heavy users.
• You may need to wait a few hours to receive your eSIM, so plan ahead of your trip.
• The buying process requires more steps than most providers. Still, you’ll be able to make a purchase in just a few minutes.

SimCorner Offer

Get a 5% discount with our promo code: ABBPTravel.

Maya Mobile eSIM

Maya Mobile is an eSIM store offering plans in 194 countries. They offer a wide range of affordable plans in multiple destinations. Each plan is up to 30 days, but you can opt for an auto-renew if you wish.

Maya Mobile offers data plans and unlimited data plans in some destinations.

I’ve tried Maya Mobile, and it worked fine.

Learn more by reading our Maya Mobile review .

Here’s how Maya Mobile works:

• Select an auto top-up or monthly renewal option if you need.
• Go to Data Plans or check your email to install the eSIM by scanning the QR code.
• Enable roaming on your device.

Go to Maya Mobile

Pros And Cons Of Using Maya Mobile To Buy eSIM

Let’s take a look at the main pros and cons of Maya Mobile.

• eSIM plans available in 194 countries.
• Wide range of plans you can renew every month
• Unlimited data plans in some destinations
• There are no global plans for the time being.

Maya Mobile Offer

Maya Mobile offers our readers a 10% discount. You won’t need to manually insert a coupon code to redeem your discount. Simply use our links to activate your 10% off .

SimOptions eSIM

SimOptions offers prepaid traditional SIM cards, and eSIM plans. They have plans everywhere around the world, including regional plans.

How SimOptions works:

• Purchase a plan.
• Scan the QR code to install your eSIM.

Go to SimsOptions

Pros And Cons Of Using SimOptions To Buy eSIM

Let’s take a look at the main pros and cons of SimOptions.

• Prepaid traditional SIM cards and eSIM plans available.
• Offers eSIM plans from different carriers, so you have more options to choose from.
• The website is a bit more old-school but still very easy to use.

SimsOptions Offer

There are no offers at the moment.

BNESIM eSIM

BNESIM is an eSIM provider that was founded in 2017. They offer plans in 160+ countries. You’ll also find other options like international phone numbers, unlimited data packages, and monthly subscriptions.

To learn more, you can read our complete BNESIM review .

Here’s how BNESIM works:

• Pay for your plan by entering your credit card information and email.
• Install your eSIM by scanning the QR code.
• If you’re using an Android, you’ll need to set up the APN. You’ll get all the information to set it up under the QR code.

Go to BNESIM

Pros And Cons Of Using BNESIM To Buy ESIM

Let’s take a look at the main pros and cons of using BNESIM.

• Plans without expirations are available.
• Discounts on monthly data plans.
• Offers local and regional plans.
• The website is a bit simple, and not the most user-friendly one. For example, it can get overwhelming when looking at the options because of the way plans are presented. Update: they are working on a new version, so we’re looking forward to seeing it!

BNESIM Offer

Get a EUR 4 discount on your first purchase over EUR 10 with my BNESIM promo code: MELISSA4OFF.

Yoho Mobile eSIM

Yoho Mobile is an eSIM provider offering plans in 190+ regions and countries. You’ll also find plans in individual countries, and you’ll find regional plans for Europe and Asia.

To learn more, you can read our complete Yoho Mobile review .

Here’s how Yoho Mobile works:

• Pay for your plan by entering your credit card information, name, address, and email.
• Make sure to enable roaming to access the Internet.

Go to Yoho Mobile

Pros And Cons Of Using Yoho Mobile To Buy ESIM

Let’s take a look at the main pros and cons of using Yoho Mobile to purchase an eSIM.

• Coverage in 190+ countries.
• Many countries and regional plans offer multiple networks, which means you’ll get access to better Internet during your travels.
• The website is relatively new, so we are excited to see how this eSIM provider will evolve in time.

Yoho Mobile Offer

Get a 5% discount on your first purchase with my Yoho Mobile promo code: abrokenbackpack5. To add a coupon code, click on View Cart and paste the coupon code there.

Manet Travel eSIM

Manet Travel is a new eSIM provider offering various local, regional, and global plans in over 200 destinations. It’s a great eSIM provider, especially if you plan to travel to multiple destinations.

Read our Manet Travel eSIM review to learn more about this store.

• Pick a plan and click on the Activate button.
• Go to your emails and scan the QR code to install your eSIM.
• Enable roaming to access the Internet.

Go to Manet Travel

Pros And Cons Of Using Manet Travel To Buy eSIM

Let’s take a look at the main pros and cons of Manet Travel.

• Plans available for more than 140 countries.
• The customer support is extremely fast (they answered me in 5 minutes).
• You can’t top up your plans for the time being, but their team said they are working on offering this feature in the future.

Manet Travel Offer

There are currently no offers available. You’ll have to choose between a credit card or a coupon code/voucher at the moment of the purchase.

AloSIM eSIM

aloSIM is a new eSIM provider offering plans in 130+ regions and countries. You’ll find many affordable local and regional eSIM plans.

To learn more, you can read our complete aloSIM review .

Here’s how aloSIM works:

• Pick a plan on aloSIM.
• Click on the buy button.
• Log in or create an account.
• Choose a payment method. They accept credit cards as well as vouchers.
• Click on eSIM plan.
• Click on the button to install the eSIM.
• Scan the QR code. You’ll also get information below the QR code if you need help.
• Set up an APN as mentioned in the installation guidelines.

Go to aloSIM

Pros And Cons Of Using aloSIM To Buy ESIM

Let’s take a look at the main pros and cons of using aloSIM to purchase an eSIM.

• Coverage in 130+ countries.
• The website is easy to use.
• The support team is extremely fast.
• Offers affordable local and regional plans.
• Some regional plans don’t offer coverage in as many countries as other eSIM providers.

AloSIM Offer

Get a 5% discount on your first purchase with my AloSIM promo code: ABB5. To add a coupon code, you’ll need to enter it as a voucher when choosing a payment method.

GigSky eSIM

GigSky is an eSIM provider offering data plans in over 200 countries around the world. To buy an eSIM, you’ll need to download the app. Then, the app makes the whole process of buying an eSIM easier.

If you wish to learn more, read our complete GigSky review .

Here’s how GigSky works:

• Select your destination and preferred plan on the app. You can swipe to see local, regional, or global plans available in this country.
• Confirm that your device is unlocked and supports eSIM technology. Then, click on the button Buy Plan.
• Finalize your purchase and activate your eSIM. The app does the whole thing for you, which is great if you’re unfamiliar with eSIMs.
• Enable roaming.
• Note that you may need to manually select the network if your Internet doesn’t work. I had to do this to connect to the Internet.

Go to GigSky

Pros And Cons Of Using GigSky To Buy ESIM

Let’s examine the main pros and cons of using GigSky to purchase an eSIM.

• The app helps you install the eSIM, which means buying an eSIM is easier and faster.
• If you prefer to make a purchase on a desktop instead of on your mobile, it won’t be possible for the time being.

GigSky eSIM Offer

There are no offers at the moment. If this changes in the future, we’ll let you know!

Instabridge eSIM

Instabridge is an eSIM store offering plans in over 190 countries. They offer a wide range of affordable plans in multiple destinations. You can opt for a one-off plan or a yearly subscription.

The best thing about Instabridge is its global eSIM plan that works in 112 countries.

I’ve tried Instabridge, and it worked fine. Their app is beautifully designed, and you’ll be able to find more options on there (compared to the desktop version).

Learn more by reading our Instabridge review .

Here’s how Instabridge works:

• Add promotion code ABB10 to get 10% discount on Global packages (it works on 1, 3, and 10 GB).
• Go to your emails to download the app and activate the plan.
• Let the app install and activate the eSIM for you.

Go to Instabridge

Pros And Cons Of Using Instabridge To Buy eSIM

Let’s take a look at the main pros and cons of using Instabridge.

• eSIM plans available in over 190 countries
• Local and global plans available
• Wide range of plans (one-off and yearly subscriptions)
• Global eSIM works in 112 countries
• You need to use the app in order to find all the country plans available

Instabridge Offer

Instabridge offers our readers a 10% discount on global plans (1 GB, 3 GB, and 10 GB). Simply use our coupon code ABB10 to enjoy 10% off.

• Holiday eSIM

Holiday eSIM is an eSIM store offering plans in 200 countries. Holiday eSIM offers flexible prepaid plans, including international data, voice, and minutes, all backed by major mobile networks worldwide.

Holiday eSIM ensures customers receive reliable high-speed Internet with plans that are easy to activate.

Here’s how Holiday eSIM works:

• Pick a plan on Holiday eSIM .
• Click on the Add to Cart button.
• View cart. Add your coupon code if you have one.
• Proceed to checkout
• Log in, create an account, or buy as a guest.

Go to Holiday eSIM

Pros And Cons Of Using Holiday eSIM To Buy ESIM

Let’s take a look at the main pros and cons of using Holiday eSIM to purchase an eSIM.

• Coverage in 200 countries.
• Depending on the destination, prepaid plans can include international data, voice, and SMS.
• Offers plans backed by the best mobile networks.
• The website could be improved to simplify the experience.

Holiday eSIM Offer

There are no offers at the moment. To add a coupon code, you’ll need to click on View Cart. Once the coupon code is added, you can proceed to checkout.

Onesim eSIM

Onesim is a new eSIM provider offering plans in 125+ regions and countries. All their eSIM plans are basically regional or global, which means you’ll get coverage in multiple countries.

To learn more, you can read our complete Onesim review .

Here’s how Onesim works:

• Pay for your plan with a credit card and enter your name, country, phone type, and email address.

Go to Onesim

Pros And Cons Of Using Onesim To Buy ESIM

Let’s take a look at the main pros and cons of using Onesim to purchase an eSIM.

• Coverage in 125+ countries.
• The APN is automatically added to the eSIM, which means it’s easier to install.
• The website is relatively new, so we are looking forward to see how it evolves in the future.

Onesim Offer

Get a 10% discount on your first purchase with my Onesim coupon code: BACKPACK10. To add a coupon code, you’ll see an option that says, “Have a coupon? Click here to enter your code”.

Best Global eSIM Providers

Now that you know some eSIM providers, let’s talk about the best international eSIM plans available.

Having an international eSIM is excellent when you travel a lot!

In my opinion, Airalo is the best travel eSIM for international trips because they offer more plans, but Nomad does provide coverage in more countries.

Let’s take a look at the best eSIM plans for international travel.

Airalo Discover Global eSIM

I love Airalo Discover Global because it covers 130 countries, making my life easier.

Here’s an overview of the plans available:

• 1 GB, valid for 7 days for $9
• 2 GB, valid for 15 days for $17
• 3 GB, valid for 15 days for $24
• 5 GB, valid for 30 days for $35
• 10 GB, valid for 180 days for $59
• 20 GB, valid for 365 days for $69

You’ll also find options with calls and SMS.

Nomad Global eSIM

Nomad also offers a global plan that works in 112 countries.

• 1 GB, valid for 7 days for $20
• 3 GB, valid for 30 days for $48
• 5 GB, valid for 30 days for $54

As you can see, Airalo provides better options if you want a global plan, but Nomad offers coverage in more countries.

Instabridge Global eSIM

Instabridge offers a global plan that works in 112 countries.

• 1 GB, valid for 7 days for $8
• 3 GB, valid for 15 days for $20
• 10 GB, valid for 30 days for $50

Holiday eSIM World

Holiday eSIM offers Orange Holiday World , an eSIM (or SIM) that works in multiple countries around the world.

Here’s an overview of the plan available:

• 10 GB, valid for 14 days for $44.10

Manet Travel Global eSIMs

Manet Travel offers various global eSIMs.

• Global plan valid in 84 countries – from EUR 10
• Global plan valid in 137 countries – from EUR 10
• Global plan valid in 140 countries – from EUR 16.60

Best eSIM Providers For Europe

If you’re traveling to Europe, here are the best eSIMs for Europe .

Note that it might already be included if you choose a global eSIM plan instead.

Airalo Eurolink eSIM

Eurolink offers coverage in 39 countries. I used it this year during my travels in Europe.

• 1 GB, valid for 7 days for 5$
• 3 GB, valid for 30 days for 13$
• 5 GB, valid for 30 days for 20$
• 10 GB, valid for 30 days for 37$
• 50 GB, valid for 90 days for 100$
• 100 GB, valid for 180 days for $185

Holafly Europe eSIM

Holafly has great European plans that work in over 30 countries. It’s interesting because they come with unlimited data.

• Unlimited data, valid for 5 days for $21
• Unlimited data, valid for 7 days for $29
• Unlimited data, valid for 10 days for $37
• Unlimited data, valid for 15 days for $51
• Unlimited data, valid for 20 days for $62
• Unlimited data, valid for 30 days for $75
• Unlimited data, valid for 60 days for $107
• Unlimited data, valid for 90 days for $139

Nomad Europe eSIM

Nomad also offers plans in Europe .

• 1 GB, valid for 7 days for 9$
• 3 GB, valid for 30 days for $17
• 5 GB, valid for 30 days for $18
• 10 GB, valid for 30 days for $26

SimCorner Europe eSIM

SimCorner offers both prepaid SIM cards and eSIM plans in Europe.

Here’s an overview of the eSIM plan available :

• 30 GB, valid for 30 days for $49 (including calls and SMS)

Maya Mobile Europe eSIM

Maya Mobile offers an eSIM plan for Europe that works in 40 countries.

Here’s an overview of the plans available :

• 3GB, valid for 30 days for $9
• 5GB, valid for 30 days for $14
• 10GB, valid for 30 days for $23
• 20GB, valid for 30 days for $34
• Unlimited data, valid for 30 days for $59

BNESIM Europe eSIM

BNESIM offers a European plan that includes coverage in 30 European countries.

Here’s an overview of the options available in Europe :

• 1 GB, no expiration for $3.77
• 3 GB, no expiration for $10.98
• 5 GB, no expiration for $17.73
• 10 GB, no expiration for $33.95

Yoho Mobile Europe eSIM

Yoho Mobile offers a European plan that includes coverage in 29 countries.

• 1 GB, valid for 7 days for $4.50
• 3 GB, valid for 10 days for $10.99
• 5 GB, valid for 15 days for $17.50
• 10 GB, valid for 30 days for $33

Manet Travel Europe eSIM

Manet Travel offers various European plans.

Here’s an overview of the options available in Europe:

• European plan valid in 35 countries – from EUR 3.10
• European plan valid in 39 countries – from EUR 5.60

Onesim Europe eSIM

Onesim offers a European plan that includes coverage in 38 countries.

• 1 GB, valid for 7 days for $4.90
• 3 GB, valid for 30 days for $9.90
• 5 GB, valid for 30 days for $15.90
• 10 GB, valid for 30 days for $29.90
• 20 GB, valid for 30 days for $49.90

There’s currently an offer on the European plan.

SimOptions Europe eSIM

SimOptions offers plans from different carriers, including O2 and Orange.

• 5 GB, valid for 30 days for $17.90
• 10 GB, valid for 30 days for $24.90
• 15 GB, valid for 14 days for $29.90
• 30 GB, valid for 14 days for $49.90

AloSIM Europe eSIM

aloSIM offers a few different European plans, which is ideal if you travel in specific areas. Alternatively, they also have a plan that works in 32 countries.

• Eastern Europe
• Western Europe
• Mediterranean
• Scandinavia
• UK and Ireland

Holiday eSIM Europe

Holiday eSIM offers a few plans in Europe, including the Orange Holiday Zen , an eSIM that works in multiple European countries.

• 8 GB, valid for 30 days for $21.25 (including unlimited calls and SMS in Europe)

Best eSIM Providers For North America

If you’re traveling to North America, here are the top options available.

Note that it might already be included if you decide to go for a global plan instead.

That said, if you travel only to one country in North America, you might want to consider a local plan instead.

You’ll find lots of suitable options on Airalo and Holafly.

Holafly North America eSIM

Holafly offers plans that cover the United States, Canada, and Mexico :

• Unlimited data, valid for 5 days for $27
• Unlimited data, valid for 7 days for $34
• Unlimited data, valid for 10 days for $44
• Unlimited data, valid for 15 days for $54
• Unlimited data, valid for 20 days for $64
• Unlimited data, valid for 30 days for $87
• Unlimited data, valid for 60 days for $144
• Unlimited data, valid for 90 days for $214

SimCorner USA, Canada, And Mexico

SimCorner offers 2 different plans for the United States, Canada and Mexico:

• 15 GB, valid for 30 days for $47 (including calls and SMS)
• Unlimited data, valid for 30 days for $62 (including calls and SMS)

Manet Travel North America

Manet Travel has a North American plan that works in the US, Canada, and Mexico:

• 1 GB, valid for 7 days for EUR 4.80
• 3 GB, valid for 30 days for EUR 11.40
• 5 GB, valid for 30 days for EUR 18
• 10 GB, valid for 30 days for EUR 31.80
• 20 GB, valid for 30 days for EUR 55.20

Onesim USA And Mexico

Onesim offers plans to facilitate your travels in North America, but only includes the United States and Mexico.

You’ll also get coverage in 46 countries (mainly Europe and Asia). 

• 3 GB, valid for 30 days for $11.90
• 5 GB, valid for 30 days for $18.90
• 10 GB, valid for 30 days for $34.90
• 20 GB, valid for 30 days for $59.90

SimOptions North America eSIM

SimOptions offers two plans to facilitate your travels in North America:

• 6 GB, valid for 10 days for $17.90
• 20 GB, valid for 30 days for $34.90

AloSIM North America eSIM

AloSIM offers 4 different plans in North America:

• 3 GB, valid for 7 days for $21
• 5 GB, valid for 30 days for $32.50

Best eSIM Plans Available In Asia

If you’re traveling to Asia, here are the top options for regional eSIM plans in Asia .

Note that some countries might already be included if you decide to go for a global plan instead.

Airalo Asialink eSIM

Asialink offers coverage in 13 countries. I used it this year during my travels in Asia, and it works fine.

Holafly Asia eSIM

Holafly has great Asia plans that work in 11 countries:

• Unlimited data, valid for 15 days for $47
• Unlimited data, valid for 20 days for $54
• Unlimited data, valid for 30 days for $79

Nomad Asia eSIM

Nomad also offers plans in Asia .

• 1 GB, valid for 7 days for 6$
• 3 GB, valid for 30 days for $15
• 5 GB, valid for 30 days for $17

SimCorner Asia eSIM

SimCorner offers one eSIM plan in Asia :

• 6 GB, valid for 15 days for $36

Maya Mobile Asia eSIM

Maya Mobile offers an eSIM plan for Asia and the Pacific region that works in 12 countries.

• 3GB, valid for 30 days for $10
• 10GB, valid for 30 days for $21
• 20GB, valid for 30 days for $38

BNESIM Asia eSIM

BNESIM offers an Asia plan that includes coverage in 28 countries.

Here’s an overview of the options available in Asia :

• 1 GB, valid for 30 days, for $8.22
• 5 GB, valid for 30 days for $38.62
• 10 GB, valid for 30 days for $73.96

Note that BNESIM has a wide range of plans, so you might want to take a look at their website to compare the options available.

Yoho Mobile Asia eSIM

Yoho Mobile offers an Asia plan that includes coverage in 19 countries.

• 1 GB, valid for 7 days for $7.99
• 3 GB, valid for 10 days for $20.50
• 5 GB, valid for 15 days for $32.99
• 10 GB, valid for 30 days for $63.50

Manet Travel offers eSIMs for Asia.

• Asia plan valid in 14 countries – from EUR 5.60
• Asia plan valid in 15 countries – from EUR 3.80

Onesim Asia eSIM

Onesim offers an Asia plan that includes coverage in 32 countries.

At the moment, there’s only one option available in Asia :

• 6 GB, valid for 8 days for $16.90

SimOptions Asia eSIM

SimOptions offers plans from different carriers.

• 6 GB, valid for 12 days for $19.90

AloSIM Asia eSIM

AloSIM offers Asia Five Pack , an eSIM that works in 5 Asian countries.

• 1 GB, valid for 7 days for $5
• 3 GB, valid for 30 days for $10
• 5 GB, valid for 30 days for $15
• 10 GB, valid for 30 days for $27

Benefits Of Using An eSIM For International Travel

eSIMs offer many benefits, which is excellent news if you’re a frequent traveler.

Here are the main reasons why I love using eSIM:

• You get data as soon as you arrive.
• You can activate your eSIM immediately.
• You can keep your usual phone number and use eSIM to get data.
• You don’t need to remove your SIM card or find a store to purchase one during your travels.
• You can top up quickly.

Final Thoughts On The Best eSIM Providers For International Travel

There are many eSIM providers out there, but not all of them offer the same coverage.

I’ve tried the following eSIM companies/eSIM apps:

• Yoho Mobile
• Manet Travel

I can say that they’re all excellent eSIM providers with great eSIM plans.

If you’re looking for the best eSIM provider for international travel, I highly recommend Airalo .

Airalo App offers great regional and global plans at reasonable prices, and their coverage is excellent. In my opinion, they offer the best eSIM data plans overall.

If you’re looking for an eSIM provider with unlimited data, Holafly is a great option (but it depends on the destination).

Want more travel tips? Read one of the following guides:

• Holafly vs Airalo
• Wise vs Revolut
• Revolut travel card
• Safetywing review

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Home » Gear » The BEST eSim For Travel and Backpacking in 2024

The BEST eSim For Travel and Backpacking in 2024

For most of us, travelling with a phone or tablet has become as important as packing a passport. Not only do they serve as excellent tour guides, but our phones have also become a saving grace to get out of sticky situations. Whether it’s finding your accommodation after that horrendous 12 am flight, or emailing the bank to urgently cancel a stolen card, it’s hard to imagine a time before the internet.

While you can choose to move from one cafe to another using the Wi-Fi or pay exorbitant international roaming fees in order to stay connected, most travellers prefer to buy a SIM (subscriber identity module) card.

Previously, acquiring a SIM card meant an excursion to the closest carrier centre with your passport and awkwardly playing charades with the poor employee as you try to overcome the language barrier. Nowadays, embedded SIMs or eSims are sweeping the market, proving a game changer for travellers. What was once considered futuristic technology is quickly becoming mainstream… and we’re here for it!

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What is eSim?

Unlike physical SIM cards, eSims can be downloaded digitally onto your phone or tablet from the comfort of your home, saving you a trip to a store once you land in a foreign country or wait for a physical SIM in the mail. As you move from country to country, simply download a new local eSim or buy a regional package (read on to know more!) and activate it as soon as you land. 

The beauty of eSims is that you can have multiple carriers on your phone ready to be activated. Not only will you be saving on the plastic packaging and transportation involved with buying a physical SIM, but you will also have your local eSim ready to activate on your phone as soon as you land. ESims allow you to have two SIMs active at once, meaning you can keep using your original SIM from home without having to juggle between two tiny plastic SIM cards, with a risk of them getting lost or stolen.  

However, before you go any further it is important to check if your phone is compatible with an eSim. Being still relatively new to the scene, eSims require a dual-SIM handset. While most new phones offer this function, you should check whether your phone is compatible before considering an eSim for your travels. Check out the list of compatible devices here . 

If your phone is compatible with an eSim it is time to decide which eSim is the best for you.

How To Choose The Best Travel eSim

As eSims become more and more popular within the travel community, eSim providers are flooding the market with a range of packages and services for you to choose from. These plans differ in price, duration, data limits, and destinations.

Just like physical SIM cards, it is therefore important to do your research before finding the best eSim for your globetrotting needs. Some providers like Yesim, offer eSIM packages for over 120 countries and a  virtual phone numbers . So, make sure that this Yesim eSIM review informs your final decision!

ESim providers service hundreds of countries around the world, meaning you will have several plans available for your destination of choice. The duration of eSim plans often ranges from 1 to 30 days, offering different data amounts and prices. This flexibility allows you to pick a plan which suits you and your travel itinerary. Remember, the best eSIM is the one which works best for your trip.

For the adventurous travellers planning to explore outside the larger cities, it is also important to note the carrier of your eSim and ensure they provide good coverage. Coverage differs depending on the carrier and your location. Limited coverage will impact your ability to send messages using data, and internet speeds may also be impacted. If you’re going to be spending heaps of time in the backcountry, a satellite phone might be a better option to check out.

ESim providers will indicate which carriers they use for each plan on their websites. If you are concerned about the coverage of your plan, research the repute of the carrier your package will be using to ensure they are a major service provider. 

Another thing to consider while you travel is whether you will need to make calls. Many eSim providers offer data only packages, therefore read the provider plans carefully to ensure your chosen eSim will include a local number. 

In order to stay competitive, many eSim providers will offer deals and additional benefits such as global packages, data sharing, and hot-spotting services. These extras are worth keeping an eye out for when comparing different plans.

If you still need a bit more info, have a good at our guide to eSIMs here.

Introducing Regional eSim Packages

If you’re planning on visiting just one country, the local eSims are a great option. However, if you have a serious case of the travel bug and wish to explore several countries on your travels, a regional eSim package might be just the thing for you. Regional eSim packages mean your one eSim plan will work in multiple regions, such as Europe or South-East Asia. 

Like local eSim options, regional packages vary in data amounts and validity periods. Most eSim providers offer both regional and global packages. These deals allow you to tailor your package to your individual travel itinerary. For example, Airalo’s Global eSim covers 87 countries across different continents, offering 7-180 days of validity and up to 20GB of data. 

With the increase in locations covered under a regional or global eSim, the price for these services tends to be a little higher than a local eSim. However, regional packages save you the need to buy a separate eSim for each country and may end up being a better fit for your travel needs. They are also great eco-friendly travel products to keep single-use plastic down.

Regional and global eSim packages provide another option worth considering when choosing the best travel eSim for you. Weigh up the pros and cons of local and regional packages to help you decide which is most worthwhile to you. 

Note : When considering a regional or global eSim, ensure the countries you are travelling to are included within the package. If a provider is offering a European regional eSim, this does not guarantee all countries in Europe will be covered by the package.  

The Best Travel eSim Providers

As it becomes clear eSims are the way of the future, an ever-increasing number of providers are entering the market. Traditionally eSims have been too expensive to be worth their convenience. However, as the technology improves, the market is becoming more and more competitive. This means you can get better value for your plans at a cheaper price.

With so many to choose from, it is important to be informed on the different plans offered by eSim companies. Key factors to consider are data use, internet speed, price, and coverage offered by each eSim provider.  

Trying to find the perfect plan can be overwhelming, especially as you try to juggle a million admin tasks before your flight. Luckily we’ve done the hard work for you, digging into the pros and cons of six eSim providers. While this list will provide you an overview of the key services offered by each company, it is important to do your own research to ensure you find the best eSim for you.

What if my phone is incompatible? Check out the best traditional SIM cards for travel instead.

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YeSim is an excellent app that connects travelers with eSim packages. YeSim do not provide network or data themselves but act as kind of a broker helping travellers to find the best and cheapest possible eSim for their trip.

They provides eSIM packages for over 120 countries and for each country they cover, they offer a variety of different packages to suit all needs and budgets. Somewhat uniquely, they also offer virtual phone numbers in many countries which makes them our top pick.

The price of a Yesim eSIM package does of course vary depending on how much data you want, how long you want the package for, and the destination country you are visiting. There is also an additional charge for a Yesim virtual phone number. However, our readers can get €3 off any package by using the promo code “Backpacker” at check-out.

Wide number of packages and the possibility of getting a virtual phone number.

New company and kind of untested. Virtual phone numbers are not cheap.

As our world gets smaller, needing an international sim while travelling becomes not just a luxury but an absolute necessity. Enter Jetpac, a game-changing travel eSIM provider promising seamless connectivity at low costs, across the globe, sign me up.

Singaporean-based Jetpac are fast changing the game in the increasingly competitive eSIM market, by providing easy, instant access to network services in a digital format.

Technophobes don’t panic, if you’ve just figured out how to take a selfie, fear not, it’s simple and straightforward 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. And it gets better, Jetpac eSIMs are compatible with a range of devices, including many models from Apple, Samsung, and Google.

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.

• Wide Coverage: Extensive network partnerships ensure strong connectivity almost anywhere.
• Flexible Plans: Options for every type of traveller.
• Ease of Use: Simple setup and account management.
• Limited Physical Presence: Those preferring in-person service might find it lacking.
• No Local phone number: No calls, no texts.

Nomad is another major eSim provider , providing both data and SMS eSim packages. Nomad covers 100+ countries and offers a variety of flexible data packages ranging from 7-60 day periods. What sets Nomad apart from other providers is the ability for clients to choose which mobile carrier their eSim uses.

Different mobile carriers will provide more reliable coverage and internet speeds than others. If coverage is important to you, Nomad is worth considering. For example, Nomad has several 30-day plans for the U.S., depending on how much data and which mobile carrier you wish to use.

Faster networks and larger data packages will cost you more ($80 USD for 50GB), while you can also choose a 30-day plan with a different carrier for $39 USD for 10 GB. Nomad is also trialling unlimited data packages in certain countries. 

Additionally, the app for Nomads is also very easy to navigate and you can message the company through the app with any questions you have. 

Nomad is perfect for backpackers new to eSims, providing a range of options on data and SMS options.  

Regional packages available for: Europe (35 countries), Nordic (4 countries), South-East Asia/Oceania (8 countries), Pacific Asia (16 countries)

Global package: (110 countries) – 5GB, 30 days $45USD

Want to find out more? Check out their website here !

More flexibility on how much data you wish to buy, positive reviews about internet speeds (particularly in Europe)

SMS packages only work in the UK, Canada, and the U.S. Only offers short term plans (most plans are 30 days)

OneSim provides both physical and eSim cards, giving you more options when choosing which is best for you. However, if you opt for an eSim, you will only have two options of packages, the World or Oceana. However, an advantage of OneSim is that packages include data, voice, and text services. 

There is a range of different plans available for their eSims. As well as offering daily, weekly, and monthly packages, customers also have the option to pay per MB for data. For example, for a 4G service in the US, rates start at $0.05/MB. This is a useful option for customers who only wish to use data in emergencies. 

While OneSim has many advantages, two themes across multiple review websites were clients being caught out with unexpected plan costs and problems with connectivity in different countries. These are common issues within both physical and eSim markets and are a good reminder to make sure you read the fine print when comparing which provider is best for you. 

OneSim is ideal for travellers who do not want to use too much data and are visiting multiple countries.

Regional packages available for: World (150 countries), Asiana (35 countries) 

Bi-monthly and monthly data discounts available. Customers also get free calls on EU numbers

Unlike most eSim providers who offer eSims free of charge, OneSim eSims cost $9.95. OneSim also only have two regional options available for eSim products

Now, you  could spend a fat chunk of $$$ on the WRONG present for someone. Wrong size hiking boots, wrong fit backpack, wrong shape sleeping bag… As any adventurer will tell you, gear is a personal choice.

So give the adventurer in your life the gift of convenience: buy them an REI Co-op gift card!  REI is The Broke Backpacker’s retailer of choice for ALL things outdoors, and an REI gift card is the perfect present you can buy from them. And then you won’t have to keep the receipt. 😉

Airalo is one of the biggest eSim companies on the market, available in over 200 countries. While most packages are data-only plans, Airalo also offers some combination plans which include calls and a local number. Airalo is competitive with major companies such as Nomad and offers different data deals for 30-day plans in a range of countries.

For example, a 30-day U.S eSim with 10GB of data will set you back $26 USD. Alternatively, for those needing less data, a 3GB eSim with the same validation period will cost a reasonable $11 USD. 

Airalo eSim plans range from 7-30 days for most local eSims, while regional packages are available up to 180 days. 

Airalo also offers an in-app reward currency called Airmoney. This feature allows you to earn credits when you buy eSims, top-up products, or refer friends. 

Airalo is perfect for travellers wanting to try out an eSim without committing to expensive long-term plans, due to their providing relatively cheap short-term data packages. 

Regional packages are available for: Africa (27 countries), Asia (13 countries), Caribbean Islands (24 countries), Europe (39 countries), Latin America (19 countries), Middle East and North Africa (15 countries). 

Want to find out more? Check out their website here or have a look at our complete Airalo eSim review .

Provide several data package options. 180 day validation periods on regional packages means less need topping up expired eSim plans

Can be difficult to keep track of how much data you have used and does not offer unlimited data packages

BneSim distinguishes itself from other competitors by specialising in monthly subscriptions, with services available in over 200 countries. BneSim offers once-off, weekly, or monthly plans, enticing you with discounts for daily and monthly subscriptions.

While these options allow you to save money in the long run, be careful of auto-renew defaults on subscriptions. Ensure you read the terms and conditions and be sure you’ve opted out of the subscription when terminating your plan to avoid any unwanted bills! 

One of the best things about BneSim is that their once-off eSim plan has no expiration, meaning you don’t need to worry about expiry dates. For those wanting voice services, BneSim also offers international numbers on certain plans, with no charge for incoming calls.  

BneSim is perfect for travellers who are staying in countries for long periods of time. 

Regional packages available for: Europe (30 countries), Asia (28 countries) 

Discounts for daily and monthly subscriptions

Website is quite overwhelming with a lot of information and not unclear descriptions, limited regional packages available

YoHo Mobile

YoHo Mobile is a new provider to the scene with services available in 190 countries around the world. They offer both fixed and unlimited plans, specialising in services to Europe and Asia. Online reviews show that YoHo Mobile still has a few kinks to iron out in terms of customer service efficiency and product processing.

Nevertheless, YoHo Mobile has competitive pricing and has partnered up with major cellular providers such as Vodafone and Movistar, meaning their internet speeds are decent value for money. A 10GB eSim to the U.S. for 30 days will cost you $31.63, giving major competitors such as Nomad and Airalo a good run for their money.

YoHo Mobile is certainly worth looking into, particularly if you are going to countries in Asia. YoHo Mobile is also ideal for backpackers travelling through multiple countries on a budget. 

Regional packages are available for: Asia 21 (21 countries), Asia Pacific (14 countries), Asia Pacific + (19 countries), South East Asia (8 countries/nations), China-Mac- Hong Kong, Europe (26 countries), Europe+(37 countries), North America (2 countries), Latin America (19 countries), Africa (1 country), Oceana (2 countries), Nordic (5 countries).  

Offers a wide range of regional packages, particularly for Asia

YoHo Mobile offers short term contracts only. There is also no app available for YoHo Mobile

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Final Thoughts on Finding The Best Travel eSim

eSIMs are the ideal travelling companion and a must on any travel packing list . They take up no space, require very little attention, and provide you with endless entertainment on those long travel days. Of course, just like when choosing any travel partner, it is important to ensure you and your eSim are on the same page.

There are a number of companies providing international connectivity at the click of a button, offering an overwhelming choice of data, voice, and text packages for you to choose from. It is therefore up to you to do your research and ensure you find the perfect match for your pending adventures. 

When finding the best travel eSim for you, consider what you will need from your phone while travelling and what you value from your mobile carrier. There is no perfect eSim provider, each performing in some categories better than others.

Whichever one you choose, you’ll at least be safe in the knowledge that you’re reducing single-use plastic whilst staying connected on your trip.

The growing popularity of instant messaging apps such as Whatsapp and Signal means that text and voice plans are less prioritised when choosing an eSim provider. This is reflected in the limited text and voice options available by eSim providers. Ultimately you will need to decide how important data, internet speed, cost and coverage are to you. 

While costing a little more than a physical local SIM, eSims provide you with more ownership over your phone connectivity. The flexibility to choose the best plan for you at the touch of a button before you even jet off on your adventures provides peace of mind that many backpackers are starting to prioritise. They also mean you don’t need to decide between a local or international sim , as most have both available through the same app.

eSIMs are a great example of how technology has revolutionised how we travel, removing barriers to our ability to connect with other cultures and countries. Find the best travel eSim for you and tick another thing off your to-do list as you prepare for the trip of your life! 

Looking for more data for your laptop? Have a look at our guide to travel internet routers instead.

Aiden Freeborn

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What are you looking for?

7 best esims for international travel [unbiased 2024 guide].

I first started using eSIMs for traveling internationally back in 2021.

In countries including Canada, the USA, Mexico, Chile, Argentina, Uruguay, Peru, Ecuador, and more. 

And honestly … they have been a game changer!

For a while, we got into the habit of buying new sim cards in each new country we traveled to.

But as you will see below, this isn’t always the most convenient thing to do.

Nor is it necessarily cheaper either!

Plus, with an eSIM you can actually just switch back between your home network (if you want to receive texts) and your eSIM network instantly. 

Plus you can even get multiple eSIMs! 

Woooah slow down, I’m getting ahead of myself … 

Below I’m going to take you through:

• What an eSIM is exactly
• The advantages of eSIMs
• The best eSIMs for international travel

Let’s get started …

Travellerspoint

What is an eSIM?

An eSIM is basically the digital version of a traditional SIM card.

Instead of a physical SIM card, eSIMs are already embedded in your phone .

Which means all the information is digital.

You can activate it by purchasing and installing different eSIM plans, which then allow your device to connect to different mobile networks across the globe.

With this virtual technology, you don’t have to insert any physical card into your phone.

Compared to a mobile WiFi hotspot , or portable WiFi, an eSIM means your phone connects directly to internet access from the local cellular provider.

You don’t need any external device!

What phones are compatible with eSIMs? 

Below is a list of phones that can use eSIMS.

Note that this isn’t exhaustive (200+ devices currently support eSIM!) and it’s constantly growing as new phones enter the market.

• iPhone 13, 13 Mini, 13 Pro, 13 Pro Max
• iPhone 12, 12 Mini, 12 Pro, 12 Pro Max
• iPhone 11, 11 Pro, 11 Pro Max
• iPhone XS, XS Max, XR
• iPhone SE (2020, 2022)
• Apple watch series 3, 4, 5 and 6
• Apple watch SE

All iPads with 4G connectivity that have come out since 2018 support eSIM:

• iPad Pro 11″ (model A2068, from 2020)
• iPad Pro 12.9″ (model A2069, from 2020)
• iPad Air (model A2123, from 2019)
• iPad (model A2198, from 2019)
• iPad Mini (model A2124, from 2019)
• Galaxy S22, S22+ 5G, S22 Ultra 5G
• Galaxy S21, S21+ 5G, S21 Ultra 5G
• Galaxy S20, S20+, S20 Ultra
• Galaxy Note 20, 20+, 20 Ultra
• Galaxy Fold, Fold 2, Fold 3
• Galaxy Z Flip, Flip 3
• Samsung Watch (through Samsung wearable application)

The Samsung Galaxy S20 FE 4G or 5G is not compatible with eSIM.

• Google Pixel 2 (only phones bought with Google Fi service), 2 XL
• Google Pixel 3 (not including phones bought in Australia, Taiwan or Japan. Phones bought with US or Canadian carriers other than Spring and Google Fi don't work with eSIM), 3a (not including phones bought in Japan or with Verizon service), 3a XL, 3 XL
• Google Pixel 
• Google Pixel 4, 4a, 4 XL 
• Google Pixel 5, 51
• Google Pixel 6, 6 plus

Other ESIM Compatible Devices

• Huawei P40, Huawei P40 Pro, Huawei Mate 40 Pro (The Huawei P40+ is not compatible with an eSIM)
• Oppo Find X5, X5 Pro, X3 Pro
• Oppo Reno 5A, Reno 6 Pro 5G
• Sony Xperia 10 IV, 10 III Lite
• Honor Magic 4 Pro
• Fairphone 4
• Motorola Razr 2019
• Nuu Mobile X5
• Rakuten Mini
• Microsoft Surface Duo

The chances are, if it’s older than those on this list, then your phone will not be compatible with an eSIM. But if it's a new phone then it's likely an eSim will work!

Advantages of eSIMs when traveling

1. flexibility.

Perhaps the main benefit of using an eSIM for travellers is its flexibility.

You can easily change between different call and data plans, according to what you need.

This also allows you to virtually change carriers when you reach your destination.  

Not to mention unlimited data packages and global plans where you can stay connected throughout multiple countries without having to constantly buy a new plan!

2. Convenient and quick

You don’t have to deal with buying a new, physical SIM card whenever you arrive in a new country.

As the eSIM is already embedded in your phone, all you have to do is purchase and download a new plan, which can be done online and remotely.

It’s also super quick and you can get online as soon as your plane lands!

If you work online, this can be a huge advantage as you’ll be saving a lot of time.

3. More affordable

You often have to buy a data package in addition to the physical SIM card itself.

Even roaming packages can be expensive.

Most eSIM data plans are much more affordable , especially if you’re a frequent traveller.

4. No physical SIM cards

The fact that you don’t have to deal with physical SIM cards anymore is also a huge advantage.

In other words, there’s no risk of losing the card.

And no more fumbling with different SIM sizes too.

5. Keep your number

Although a lot of smartphones nowadays include a dual SIM card tray, having to constantly swap them in and out can be a hassle.

Plus, you might need two numbers anyway for business purposes.

With an eSIM, you can travel internationally, access internet, and still keep your number (or numbers)!

BEST eSIMs for international travel 

1. maya mobile - overall best esim for travelers.

Our top pick of eSIMs for traveling today has got to be Maya Mobile.

Overall, I think Maya Mobile generally has better prices than most other eSIMs on the market. 

For instance, we recently used them throughout South America and used their Latin America plan , which includes South America.

We paid £104 a month for unlimited local data , which might seem like a lot, but we work full-time on our laptops so this worked out perfectly.

Especially considering we were moving through three different countries in a month, so it was super useful to be able to connect easily from the van and get our work done.

Not to mention you can hot spot it, which is great as some eSIMs disable this feature! 

(If you’re wondering, the LatAm+ plan works in 16 countries: Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, Colombia, Costa Rica, Ecuador, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, Mexico, Nicaragua, Panama, Paraguay, Peru, Uruguay, and Chile).

Maya Mobile currently operates in 194 countries, with both local and regional plans available.

Again, they also offer unlimited data plan options for those of you who work online a lot.

Another great thing about their eSIMs is the sheer range of plans you can choose from.

The plan is for 30 days, but there’s an auto-renew feature you can use if you’re travelling for longer periods of time.

All in all, this was the perfect digital nomad eSIM for us, namely when exploring South America!

We didn't have any issues with speed, and we generally got good connection. There are some places where it struggles, but that is simply down to being in areas with limited signal, but I was using another eSIM alongside Maya Mobile, and I can tell you that Maya Mobile got connection when the other eSIM struggled! 

I've seen they also offer unlimited data plans for Europe too , for a simply excellent price of £40, so I think I'll be testing that out on my Iceland trip in October and will be reporting back with an update!

These are the included countries in Europe!

I also love just how quickly it was to set up. It literally took less than 5 minutes!

I know you might be thinking, "would it not just be cheaper to buy sims in each country in South America?".

I mean, you can go down this route, and I had bought a local sim in Peru, and almost lost my original sim card, which just can't happen with an eSIM and none of the data plans in South America were offering unlimited data, especially not for tourist sims, so this was without doubt the best price for us as digital nomads!

But overall Maya Mobiles rates for around the world are realllllyyy reasonable, and trust me I did a LOT of research and comparison before I settled on this one!

You can check out my full review here .

Advantages of Maya Mobile: 

• One of the best pricings for eSIMS
• Can be used for hotspots
• 194 countries with local and regional plans
• Unlimited data packages in some regions

Disadvantages of Maya Mobile: 

• No global plan

2. Firsty - The best eSIM global plan with FREE data

With SO many eSIMS on offer, what can a company do to stand out?

Well, how about FREE data?

Yeah, you read that right!

Firsty is pretty much a one-of-a-kind eSIM provider, that believes everyone should have access to global data (and rightly so!).

Firsty automatically connects you to every mobile provider on the planet, as soon as you touch down!

So that means no need to switch eSIMS every time you enter a new location, and no need to buy expensive data bundles. 

I know what you’re thinking, what’s the catch? I mean, there isn’t one.

Firsty offers two different types of plans, “Free” and “Fast”.

‍ The free plan will get you a basic global data connection and if you want to speed things up then you will only pay the local rate, which is up to 60 times less than you would normally pay for an international bundle. 

Oh, and another perk? You don’t even need a credit card!

If you’re thinking “I bet the fast version is super expensive”, then you’d be wrong again, it’s €1 / day.

And why can they keep the prices so low? Because they have access to every provider on the planet, which means it’s easier to negotiate better rates! 

Right now Firsty is available in 70 countries, but they have plans to expand that further! 

Advantages of Firsty 

• Free data: I mean, I think this speaks for itself, and if it’s free, fuss-free and doesn’t need your credit card information, then you’ve got nothing to lose in trying! 
• 24/7 customer support: Firsty customer service is 1st class (see what I did there? ;)) , and it’s supported in over 80 languages
• Firsty Pause : The ability to pause your fast data when you’re not using it. This means you won’t need to waste data, and just it just when you need it. For example, you’re on a cruise from Denmark to Iceland, you want data in both Denmark and Iceland, but you don’t need it whilst you’re on the ferry (because you want to relax and connections aren’t perfect), so you can pause your fast data via the Firsty app and restart once you hit land. And don’t forget, when you do have those bursts of signal (i,e when you pass by the Faroe Islands and even Scotland), you’d still have a basic connection thanks to Firsty Free. This is a real-life example, because I did this trip a few weeks back and this would have been useful. Or of course, you can use it to pause your data when you’re heading off out on hikes or a remote trip to the Amazon jungle (which I recommend you do!).

Disadvantages of Firsty 

• Less countries than other global eSIM plans: since they’re expanding, I don’t believe this will be a “disadvantage” for very long, but right now they do offer less countries that some other global data esim companies (although what they lack in countries they make up for in price)

3. Eskimo - the best esim mobile app for international travel

Looking for a convenient app that offers you accessible and affordable eSims with coverage across in over 60 countries?

Then let me introduce you to Eskimo !

We will be testing this eSim out on an upcoming trip, but I love it's features so much already, I wanted to share.

PLUS, there's an opportunity for you to try it for FREE!

Key features of Eskimo!

• Simple global data plans at lowest prices (you can get prices as low as $3 per GB- I promise you, that's a great deal!)
• Borderless eSims : All data plans include 60+ countries- this is a super useful feature if you are travelling for a longer period of time, for example, travelling throughout Europe.
• Super long expiry date : all data plans are valid for 2 years and they don't expire, so you can use one eSIM for lifetime use- again, this is a SUPER useful feature, so you don't need to chop and change between eSims, you can have an all-in-one solution
• Extensive 4G/LTE coverage without daily data limits or throttling
• Hotspots are available and unrestricted to a number of devices (a must for digital nomads like us!) 
• Data transfer : one of the really unique features of Eskimo, is that you can split, share or transfer data with anyone, anywhere, so you can share data with your partner on the road, or friends somewhere else if they need it.

AND this is all done in one convenient app on your mobile that you can go ahead and download right here .

CHECK OUR FULL REVIEW OF ESKIMO ESIMS RIGHT HERE!

FREE ESIMS & 1GB OF DATA

Want to test out Eskimo and see how awesome it is? Then simply click this link to download the app on your phone, and you'll get a free 1GB to test out :)

4. Jetpac - Best eSIM for multi-country trips

Jetpac are one of the most recent eSIM travel companies I've used- and I've been very impressed.

Check out my full review here .

Recently they won an award for 2023 Travel Product of the Year w ith Asia Telecom Awards, (which is a good sign!)

Jetpac offer a variety of different plans including a country specific plan, regional and global plan.

All of their plans offer a good amount of data so you’re safe in the knowledge that you’ve got enough internet to keep you going throughout your trip. 

Their most popular and most convenient eSIM plan is their Global Globetrotter plan which operates in the 50 most popular destinations around the world.

This is a perfect option if you're doing multi-country trip! This is particularly useful for me when roadtripping through Europe as I tend to go through a lot of countries in a realtively short period of time.

They also offer a range of other area specfic plans including, Europe, Asia and more!

But, what makes them truly stand out is that they offer complimentary airport lounge access if your flight is delayed, through their ‘Smart Delay’ program.

If the airline announces a delay that meets the qualifying delay threshold, or if your flight is cancelled you’ll be sent a LoungeKey voucher which gives you access to a network of over 1000 airport lounges around the globe.

That's a really cool perk!

Oh and they also allow you to hot spot to other devices, AND they don't throttle your speed!

Advantages of Jetpac: 

• Global package: one eSIM for 50 countries
• User-friendly mobile app
• Smart Delay (free lounge access if you're flight is delayed)
• No speed throttle
• You can hotspot!

Disadvantages of Jetpac: 

• No unlimited package available
• 50 countries may limit some people

5. Airalo - Best eSIM for global coverage

If you want an eSIM with the most destinations and global coverage, try Airalo .

They have a Discover Global plan which can be handy if you want to tackle multiple countries at a time.

It doesn’t literally cover all 200+ destinations, but does work in 85 countries, which is still fab!

As a company, they’ve been around since 2019 and have had 1 million+ user by August of 2022.

The Airalo App is easy to use and has a great interface, allowing you to change between multiple eSIMs seamlessly.

This is also where you can quickly browse through all your options without feeling overwhelmed.

Not to mention a pretty cool rewards system where you can collect points by purchasing new plans, topping up credit, and more.

Plus, their customer support is known to be especially impressive, with many users testifying to their quick and reliable responses.

Advantages of Airalo: 

• Coverage in 200+ countries and regions
• Fast customer support

Disadvantages of Airalo: 

• Mostly data-only, with limited call plans

6. BNESIM - best all-in-one eSIM for travel

Experience the world without borders with BNESIM.

- Stay connected in over 200 countries with unlimited data plans, pay-as-you-go options, and hassle-free eSIM activation - Protect your privacy and data with built-in VPN  offerings - Enjoy unlimited high-speed hotspot capabilities - Never worry about running out of data again

With BNESIM, you can work, stream, and stay in touch no matter where you roam. Regional and single country plans fit every travel itinerary.

Unlimited data options keep you connected for daily activities or binge-watching your favorite shows.

VPN and hotspot capabilities empower you to use the internet freely and securely.

If you're a digital nomad, remote worker, or avid traveler who wants flexible, unlimited data worldwide, BNESIM has you covered. Their subscription plans and pay-as-you-go rates beat traditional providers. Experience true global connectivity and internet freedom with BNESIM.

As well as offering individual country data plans as well as regional plans covering popular destinations in Asia and Europe .

Plans start at less than £0.80p for 1GB which is incredible value.

You can purchase your eSIM via their app or their website!

Advantages of BNESIM: 

• No restrictions on hot spotting
• Local numbers and minutes available for purchase

Disadvantages of BNESIM: 

• No unlimited data for PAYG eSIMS

7. Sim Local - best eSIM for value for money (GET 20% OFF WITH AFFSIML20)

Sim Local is like having your digital passport to connectivity worldwide!

Cutting out the hassle of physical SIM cards and offering seamless, instant access to data networks wherever you go, Sim Local has a lot offer in the eSIM game.

The website and app are easy to use, and they offer lots of cover for various part of the world!

First up, they offer fantastic value on eSIMS in Europe (starting at just £3 per GB), and regional eSIMS that cover Europe as a whole, for a fantastic price (includes call and texts too!)

Not only that, but they also offer global eSIMS for when you're heading further afield.

For example, you can get 10GB for data for global use for a reasonable cost of £28. This actually covers 149 countries, which pretty much covers most of the destinations you may be looking to go, and it lasts for 2 weeks, which is the perfect amount of time for a holiday ;) 

But, if you don't want a global specific eSIM, then don't worry, you can get eSIMS for individual countries at great costs.

Let's take Thailand as an example.

You can get 1GB for as little as £3.50, the whole way up to 20GB for £27.00. That is an excellent deal, it lasts 30 days, which is perfect since the average itinerary in Thailand is 3 weeks (you can our 3 week guide right here !) 

So whether you're jetting off for business or pleasure, Sim Local is a great option!

Check out our full review here .

You can get 20% off with code AFFSIML20

Advantages of Sim Local

• Excellent pricing
• Hot spotting is allowed
• 24/7 customer support
• Easy to use app

Disadvantages of Sim Local

• Sometimes limited durations (such as max 14 days)

Which eSIM will you go for?

That’s all for our version of the best eSIMs for international travel!

Whether you’re searching for the best eSIM providers or simply wondering if your device supports eSIM, we hope this post has been useful for you…

PPPSSSST, if you're looking for a specific eSIM for Europe, then check out our dedicated Europe Travel eSIM  guide!

Or, South East Asia!

Which eSIM do you think you’re getting for your next trip?

Do you have a particular brand that we haven’t included?

Comment below and let us know your thoughts!

Leave a comment

Let us know what you think.

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The best eSIMs for travellers to beat hefty roaming charges

By Charley Ward

On the list of additional costs that can trip up travellers, the dreaded roaming data charge is up there as one of the most irritating. Of course, there are usually phone plan kiosks at the airport or the odd SIM card vending machine. However, by the point you’ve reached the arrivals lounge , you’re a captive audience and thus beholden to whatever rate is offered. You also might need some data before leaving the airport: I’m still scarred by the charge I incurred in the connecting terminal in Singapore when the Wi-Fi wasn’t working and I needed to let my partner know I’d arrived.

But there is a way to beat the charges before you’ve even left the country – and that’s by using an eSIM. Oftentimes, purchasing a dedicated travel SIM works out cheaper overall than using the additional data bundles offered with your regular UK phone plan, especially for frequent fliers and those headed further afield than Europe. And by using a digital SIM rather than a traditional physical one, there’s no need to wait for it to arrive or worry about losing your regular SIM card while it’s not in use.

What is an eSIM?

An eSIM is a digital SIM card that allows you to switch between mobile networks directly through your phone’s settings. It means you can stay constantly connected abroad without the risk of being hit with any nasty roaming charges or being beholden to your networks’ often-pricey data plans.

Is my phone eSim compatible?

Most post-2018 smartphones are eSIM compatible, but you will need to make sure you’re not locked to a single network. If this is the case, provided you’ve reached the end of your original contract, you can ask your provider to unlock it for free by requesting a Network Unlock Code (NUC).

Do I need a different eSIM for each country I visit?

No. All eSIMs are suitable for use worldwide, so you’ll only need one eSIM for all of your travel needs. Further, plenty of the plans below are suitable for use in several countries: for example, if you buy an EasySim plan for a trip to France, the data will also be valid for use in a further 36 countries, making it better value for those going on to do more onward travel.

Below, we’ve outlined the best eSIM services to know in time for your next trip, along with the price for a week’s worth of data for a long haul flight to Indonesia as a price comparison guide.

Best eSIM overall

Pros: Yearly and monthly subscriptions, unlimited data and voice options available Cons: None that we can see Price for a 3GB eSIM for Indonesia: $6 (£4.75) Price for a 3GB eSIM for USA: $2.99 (£2.37)

This is our best eSIM option – Airhub is a great service for frequent travellers and digital nomads especially. The app is intuitive and easy to use, and there are plenty of different plans available for trips of all lengths. One perk this service offers over the others we like is the yearly and monthly subscriptions, which make financially savvy options for those on longer trips – for example if you’re stationed somewhere for work or taking advantage of that post-Covid ‘work from anywhere’ lifestyle. There are also plans that include voice minutes and SMS services, which is an additional boast that the other services here can’t match.

Pros: Diverse range of data plans, many plans work across multiple countries, no need for an app Cons: No family feature for managing multiple eSims per account Price for a 3GB eSIM for Indonesia: £8.50 Price for a 3GB eSIM for USA: £8.50

EasySim is part of the EasyJet family of brands, so they know a thing or two about roaming. True to form, it’s one of the most comprehensive services on offer, with a good range of plans at some of the best prices we’ve seen. Some may not like the lack of an app, but the website is easy to use and does the job perfectly well. As a bonus, this service covers a wide range of phones. Not all the options on this list are compatible with my Motorola – an admittedly niche handset – but the compatibility here adds an additional sweetener to this service for me.

Pros: Worldwide and regional plans available, diverse range of plans Cons: No family feature for managing multiple eSims per account Price for a 3GB eSIM for Indonesia: $11 (£8.71) Price for a 3GB eSIM for USA: $11 (£8.71)

All the prices on Airalo come up in US dollars, but don’t be fooled – these plans are accessible to anyone in the world. Airalo has some of the most diverse offerings out there – with regional and even worldwide SIMs available, so even the most voracious country-hoppers should be covered. For those planning treks across Asia or the like, you might want to take note.

Best eSIM for short trips

Pros: Low starting prices Cons: Fewer cross-country compatible plans than EasySim, calls, SMS and MMS services aren’t currently provided Price for a 3GB eSIM for Indonesia: No 3GB plan available; 1.5GB for £3.99 or 15GB for £20 Price for a 3GB eSIM for USA: No 3GB plan available; 1GB for £3.99 or 15GB for £20

As someone who travels regularly for work, and often only for a few days at a time, I’ve sometimes found myself paying over the odds for week-long data plans when I’m only away a few days. Case in point on a recent trip to the Maldives, where I was beholden to the airport’s singular 10gb data SIM offering despite only being in the country for three days. So, if you’re one for regular short hops, GoMo World’s smaller plans are ones to consider for maximum cost-saving benefits.

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Planning a trip? Here are the best eSIMs for international travel

Published on April 24, 2024

Traveling is exciting, but dealing with SIM cards can be a hassle. Thankfully, eSIMs (embedded SIMs) are changing the game. You don’t have to put up with long queues for a new SIM or fumble with tiny plastic cards. You can get a local plan while in your country of origin and enjoy seamless connectivity before getting off the plane.

eSIMs are great, but with so many providers, how do you choose the right one? We’ve researched to find the best eSIM for international travel in 2024, whether you’re heading to Europe, Asia, Africa, or Australia.

What is an eSIM?

An eSIM is a digital SIM card that works with a chip built into your device. With a supported phone, you can get started from anywhere. Switching operators is as simple as getting a new carrier, scanning a code, and installing and activating the eSIM. This is in sharp contrast to the plastic physical SIM you have to get from the carrier and insert in your phone to get connectivity.

While eSIMs have been around for a while, they caught everyone’s attention when Apple made the bold move to go all-in on them, ditching the traditional SIM card slot altogether.

eSIMs aren’t just about convenience; they’re also eco-friendly. By eliminating physical cards, eSIMs reduce the amount of plastic waste the mobile industry generates. Plus, they free up space inside your device that manufacturers can use to fit in larger batteries or make it more sleek.

The real game-changer is how eSIMs enable 5G connectivity in devices that struggle to fit a SIM card, like smart glasses and fitness trackers . Their compact size makes them perfect for the next generation of connected gadgets.

Best eSIMs for international travel

We’ve covered some of the best eSIMs for international travel, whether you’re taking the trip alone or with loved ones.

Holiday eSIM

• Local, regional, and global plans
• Customizable plans
• 150+ countries, seven regions
• Some plans support data sharing
• Unlimited data, SMS, and call options
• Covers all regions
• Expensive in Africa and America

Airhub is a global marketplace with eSIMs available in over 150 countries. Thanks to strategic partnerships with local companies, it offers several plans per destination that you can use to browse and, in some cases, send texts and make calls.

Local eSIMs cover over 150 countries. Regional eSIMs cover Africa, Asia-Pacific, Europe, the Middle East, North America, and South America. The Europe regional eSIM, for example, covers 48 countries, while the South American eSIM covers 18 countries. There are multiple global plans covering countries on all continents.

Airhub shows the network you’ll use at your destination. Plus, you can get unlimited data with SMS and voice minutes in certain countries and regions like Europe, North America, and South America. The Africa, Asia-Pacific, and Eurasian eSIMs only offer capped data volumes without voice credits. Meanwhile, the global plans include data-only options and options with SMS and voice minutes.

Prices vary across regions. European and Eurasian plans are generally cheaper, while North and South American plans are more expensive. African plans are not available at the time of writing.

You can get started with Airhub using the company’s website or mobile application. Choose your destination country and prepaid eSIM data plan, and make payment using your credit card, debit card, or PayPal. You’ll receive a QR code to activate your eSIM.

• Flexible, customizable plans
• 200+ countries, seven regions
• Supports data sharing
• Data validity up to 180 days
• Data-only local and regional plans
• Expensive in Africa
• No unlimited plans

Airalo is regarded as the first-ever eSIM store globally and is a top choice for eSIMs thanks to its budget-friendly options and worldwide availability. It offers local, regional, and global eSIMs, with prices varying by destination and local data rates.

Local eSIMs cover over 200 countries. Local USA plans, for example, range from 1–20GB and are valid for 7–30 days. However, there are no unlimited plans.

Regional eSIMs cover Africa, Asia, the Caribbean Islands, Europe, Latin America, the Middle East, North Africa, and North America. The Eurolink regional eSIM covers 39 European countries and offers as much as 100GB of data for 180 days, while the Island Hopper is good for 24 Caribbean islands.

Prices vary across regions. 1GB of data costs $5 for European and American regional plans, $15 for Caribbean, Latin America, and Middle Eastern regional plans, and $27 for an African regional plan.

The global eSIM plans cover 124 countries simultaneously and are perfect for interregional adventures. Local and regional plans only cover data, while global plans may be data-only or include data, calls, and texts.

To get started with an Airalo eSIM, download the app, create an account, select your destination and package, and install the eSIM. Payment methods include credit and debit cards, Paypal, Apple Pay (in some countries), Google Pay, Alipay (via the app), and Airmoney (Airalo’s reward currency).

• Local and regional plans
• Flexible plans with top-up options
• 175+ countries, 11 regions
• Nifty data calculator
• Free SMS and voice minutes via third-party
• Referral-only loyal points
• No global plans
• No African or Middle Eastern regional plans

aloSIM is a Canadian tech company founded in 2022 that offers low-cost prepaid data eSIMs and a nifty data calculator that estimates data usage based on daily activities. This ensures you only pay for what you need.

aloSIM has local plans covering over 175 countries across all continents. Regional plans cover Europe, America, and some parts of Asia, with unique options for Scandinavia and the Mediterranean. However, regional offers are limited in Africa and the Middle East.

The European regional plan spans 34 countries and lets you buy 1–10GB of data for seven to 30 days, with the option to add more if needed. You can get 5GB of data for around $20. If your journey only takes you to the UK, a cheaper UK-Ireland plan that costs $20 for 10GB of data is available. Prices are more expensive in North and South America, with the same 10GB going for $50 or more.

Like Airalo, aloSIM shows you which networks you’ll be connected to and the speed availability before purchasing a plan. You also can’t get unlimited data. While the eSIMs do not include phone numbers for calling and texting, aloSIM offers free numbers with voice minutes and SMS from its sister app, Hushed.

You can get started with aloSIM on the web or mobile app. There are three installation methods: Automatic, QR code, and manual.

• 170+ countries, 11 regions
• Small regional price disparity
• Prepaid SMS plans
• Some eSIMs support data sharing
• Data-only plans

Nomad was founded in 2020 and has headquarters in Silicon Valley. It has local, regional, and global plans.

Local eSIMs cover 170+ countries across all continents. Regional plans include Asia–Pacific, Africa, Europe, the Middle East, North America, and smaller three-country combinations. The global plan covers 109 countries.

You can see which network you’ll be connected to within your destination country and the speed. You can also top up your data when necessary. Note that there are no unlimited plans or options with voice minutes, but you can get separate SMS plans in the US and Canada at $4 for 100 texts lasting 30 days.

Prices vary by region. The European plan costs $5 for 1GB of data for seven days. Prices are similar for American and Asian plans. The African plans are slightly more expensive, starting at $11 for 1GB of data. But this is still significantly cheaper than Airalo’s $27 for 1GB.

• 170+ countries, seven regions
• Two global coverage plans
• Unlimited global and European plans
• Offers eSIMs and physical SIMs
• Pay-as-you-go option
• Pricier in the Middle East and Africa
• No info on destination networks
• Auto-renewal feature
• No data sharing

BNESIM was founded in 2017 in Sheung Wan, Hong Kong Island. It provides eSIMs and SIM cards in several countries and regions, but we’ll focus on eSIMs.

BNESIM offers local eSIM plans in over 170 countries. Its seven regional plans cover Africa, Asia, Europe, the Middle East, North America, Oceania, and South America. It has a global plan for 102 countries and a mini global plan for 56 countries, mainly consisting of North America, Europe, and some parts of Asia.

Aside from its base plans that renew automatically, BNE offers one-time plans with relatively shorter expiration dates and pay-as-you-go plans that never expire. It also provides unlimited European and global data plans with voice minutes — other plans are data-only.

You can top up your plan anytime using the app. However, you can’t see the network you’ll connect to within your destination country.

Local US plans start at €4.36 for 3GB of data lasting a month. It’s cheaper in European countries, costing about €3.96 for the same 3GB in the UK. Prices are higher in Africa and South America, with a rate of around €18.72/3GB and €15.34/3GB, respectively. Regional plans follow a similar pricing pattern.

• 190+ countries and some regions
• Unlimited data plans in several locations
• Small price disparity across regions

Holafly was founded in 2017 and has offices in Ireland, Columbia, Peru, and Thailand. It offers local and regional eSIMs with unlimited data in several locations.

Holafly eSIMs are available in over 190 destinations worldwide. Coverage includes countries, cities like Barcelona, and regions like Asia and Europe. Plans vary widely, with some places only offering fixed data bundles while others have unlimited volumes.

You can get unlimited data at a rate of €6/day and €19/5 days in Australia, Canada, Japan, the US, the UK, and several other places. Prices are slightly more expensive in countries like Nigeria and South Africa, with five days of unlimited data costing €29. The data volume is capped in several other countries.

Finding regional plans on the website is tricky. However, a quick search on the website brought up plans for Asia, Europe, Latin and North America, and the Caribbean.

The Holafly website highlights several details about your purchase, including the available networks in your destination and places that are likely to have high-speed internet. However, the plans are data-only, so you can’t make phone calls or send text messages, except with the Europe eSIM, which gives you 60 minutes of normal voice calls.

• Regional and global plans
• Great European coverage
• Plans include calls, SMS, and data
• Poor coverage of other regions
• Poor website design

Holiday eSIM is a top choice for travelers heading to Europe. Thanks to robust connections in nearly every European country, you can enjoy high-speed data wherever you are.

Holiday eSIM includes a French number in your plan, a rare find among eSIM providers. Its most popular plan costs £17.50 for 12GB of data in Europe, unlimited calls and texts in Europe, and 30 minutes and 200 SMS from Europe to anywhere in the world. There are other plans as well.

While its major offerings cover Europe, Holiday eSIM has Asia-only plans covering several countries. Aside from these two regions, every other location is part of a global plan that covers parts of Europe and other continents.

Thanks to the user-friendly Orange Holiday app, installing the eSIM is simple. Download the app, install the eSIM, and you’ll automatically connect to the strongest local European mobile network. However, the Holiday eSIM website interface leaves a lot to be desired. Navigating through plans is challenging, especially if it’s your first time.

Should you get an eSIM?

One of the most incredible things about eSIMs is their flexibility — you can store multiple eSIMs on your phone (up to eight or more in some cases) and activate them as needed without worrying about extra roaming charges.

If your current network offers free roaming, you might not need a travel-specific or local SIM. But if not, the hassle of finding a new operator and dealing with language barriers can be a real headache.

Security-wise, eSIMs have a leg up on physical SIMs. Since they’re not removable, they’re practically impossible to lose. And if your phone goes missing, tracking it through the eSIM is much easier than with a physical SIM that the perpetrator can remove.

While international roaming works the same way with physical and eSIMs, the real advantage of eSIMs is their flexibility. You can have multiple eSIMs from different countries saved on your device, making it a breeze to switch between them when you’re hopping from one country to another.

The best part? Switching between eSIMs is as easy as buying and activating a plan online. There is no need to juggle physical SIM cards or worry about losing your old number.

Which phones support eSIMs?

To use an eSIM, your phone must support the technology and be unlocked (not tied to any carrier). We’ll cover a list of phones with built-in eSIM support and how you can check if they’re unlocked.

To see if your iOS device supports eSIMs and is carrier unlocked:

• Go to Settings > General > About .
• Scroll down to Carrier Lock . If the device is unlocked, it will show No SIM restrictions .
• For iOS 15 or higher, scroll down to Available SIM . For earlier versions, look for Digital SIM . If your phone supports eSIMs, it will display a 15-digit IMEI number.

Here are the iPhone models that support eSIMs:

• iPhone XR, XS, and XS Max
• iPhone 11 series
• iPhone 12 series
• iPhone 13 series
• iPhone SE 2 and 3
• iPhone 14 series
• iPhone 15 series

Here are the iPad models that support eSIMs:

• iPad Pro 1st generation and newer
• iPad Air 3rd generation and newer
• iPad 7th generation and newer
• iPad Mini 5th generation and newer

To check if your Android phone supports eSIMs:

• Go to Settings > Network & Internet .
• Tap on eSIM cards .
• Your device is compatible if you see the “Download a SIM instead?” option.

You can also check for an EID (Embedded Identity Document) number by dialing *#06#.

Some popular high-end Android phones that support eSIMs include:

• Samsung Galaxy S20 series and newer
• Samsung Galaxy Note 20 series
• Samsung Galaxy Fold series
• Samsung Galaxy Z Flip series
• Samsung Galaxy A54 5G
• Google Pixel 4 series and newer (and older Google Fi Pixel phones)
• Google Pixel Fold
• Xiaomi 12T Pro and 13 series
• Oppo Find X5 series
• Huawei P40 series

This list is not exhaustive, and compatibility can vary based on where the device was manufactured. Check with your manufacturer to confirm.

Types of eSIMs

There are two main types of eSIMs: data-only and data with SMS and voice credits. Which one should you choose?

• Data-only eSIM: As the name implies, a data-only eSIM only works for browsing. It connects you to major networks in your destination country so you can surf the web and use your favorite apps. While you can’t make phone calls with it, you can leverage apps like WhatsApp to speak with others over the web.
• Voice, SMS, and data eSIM: This option is perfect for those seeking the whole package — calling, texting, and browsing. It usually comes with a separate phone number for this purpose. While most providers give you a fixed number of SMS messages or call minutes, some add this for free. Meanwhile, most unlimited data plans come with unlimited calls and texts.

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Best eSim for International Travel: A Detailed Guide

If you travel a lot as I do then you have probably heard of an international eSim card and are wondering whether it is worth getting one.

But, since eSims are relatively new to us all, we don’t know much about them, whether they are useful, and if they are, which of the eSim providers to go with. Let’s work it out.

At A Glance: Our Top 3 eSims for International Travel

• Best Esim Overall Airalo Jump To Review
• BEST Esim FOR EUROPE Holafly Jump To Review
• Two Regional Packages Nomad Jump To Review
• BEST Esim FOR USA Simtex Jump To Review
• Longest Plans For International Flexiroam Jump To Review
• Great Small Plans Know Roaming Jump To Review

In this article, I will run through everything you need to know from what an eSim is to how they work, where they work, what devices they work with, and the top eSim providers to choose from.

By the end, you should know whether an eSim is better for you than using physical sim cards, and the best eSim provider that suits your travel patterns. Let’s dive in!

Top Product Overview

Best esim for international travel.

Airalo is the best global eSim provider and the most popular too.

It offers local, regional, and global plans meaning you can buy an eSim for a specific country, continent, or for the world. Their plans also offer long or short-term contracts, often depending on the size of the data package.

Here are some examples of their Global packages (84 countries):

• $9 – Global – 7 days – 1 Gig
• $24 – Global – 15 days – 3 Gig
• $35 – Global – 30 days – 5 Gig
• $59 – Global – 60 days – 10 Gig
• $89 – Global – 180 days – 20 Gig

So, for me, Airalo is great in terms of flexibility when you travel internationally. They offer local plans for more than 190 countries and their prices are affordable too. Their global plan doesn’t cover all 190 countries but has 84 countries, which is still great.

However, sometimes a local or regional plan is better anyway, as it’s more cost-effective, especially if you are in a specific region for weeks or a month. The only downside is that unlimited data plans are not available.

Buying an eSim is very easy with Airalo. Either on the App on your phone or via their website. You just have to select from local, global, and regional plans on their website or via the App, install your eSim, and activate it. Their customer support is also excellent.

And, one big bonus I have found using them lately is the reminder emails. Some days before expiring, the remind you. Also as your data is getting low (25%).

Airalo 3 days expiry warning

This may not sound like a big deal, but when you are trying to find something on Google Maps and you suddenly find your plan has expired (like I did while trying Nomad this month) then it’s not fun. With Airalo that does not happen.

• Excellent global coverage
• Good customer support
• A range of plans by country, continent, or global
• Short and long-term contracts available
• Easy to set up
• Unlimited data packages are not available

Holafly is another good eSim provider . They offer coverage in over 130 countries and unlimited data packages too which is great, as you can browse all day long without worrying about your data usage. 

But, you can not use the unlimited data packages to a hotspot, which is a shame when you have to head abroad for work.

Setting up Holafly is very easy and fast, and you can choose from local or regional plans but they do not offer global plans. Their plans are affordable, and you can choose between short or long ones.

Customer support can be an issue as their team is small but they will get to you eventually.

Holafly is probably the best eSim for Europe as you can get unlimited data for an affordable price, and the connection is reliable.

• Excellent in Europe
• Quick and easy to set up
• Covers local and regional plans in over 130 countries
• Affordable short and long-term plans.
• Unlimited data plans available
• Unlimited data can not be used with a hotspot
• Not as affordable as Airalo in all destinations
• Global plans are not available
• Speeds vary
• Customer support is inefficient

Nomad is another popular eSim provider and it has solid global coverage which includes 110 countries.

The service is reliable, easy to set up, and generally solid. They offer both global and regional plans. Regional plans include Nordic/Scandanavia , APAC , and Europe but no regional plans in North or South America. Of course, they do have individual countries like the USA , Mexico etc.

The plans are quite affordable but they only allow for short-term plans with a max of 30 days, which isn’t useful for long trips around the world.

Also, no local plans are available for a single country which is just annoying. Plus, the most amount of data you can get on a global plan is 5GB over 30 days which is not enough for most people.

• Coverage in over 100 countries
• You can buy both regional and global plans
• Global plan covers 110 countries
• Quite affordable
• No local plans available
• Maximum plan length is 30 days
• Max data on a global plan is 5GB

BNESIM offers local plans in 170 countries and regional plans for both Europe and Asia. Their service is quick, reliable and they do something other providers don’t.

With BNESIM you can get a monthly contract which brings the price of their nice data packages right down. You can also get unlimited data and even an international phone number.

The only downsides are that they don’t offer global plans or any other regional plans such as Africa or Central America.

READ MORE: Check out our detailed review of BNESIM

• Works in over 170 countries
• Local and regional plans available
• Short and long-term plans
• Monthly subscriptions available with discounts
• Unlimited data packages
• International phone numbers
• Regional plans limited to Europe & Asia
• No global plans

Simtex is a reliable eSim provider that works in over 190 countries. This makes travel abroad a breeze.

You have the option to buy either local plans for an individual country or a regional plan for Europe or Simtex’s Top 40.

Their plans are affordable but not as affordable as other providers. Also, the plans are all short term with a maximum of 30 days available and you can not buy a global plan.

They are great if you are just going on holiday but if you are consistently traveling, you can find better options out there.

Read our detailed review of the Simtex eSim .

• Works in over 190 countries
• Easy to activate
• Offers local and regional plans
• Regional plans limited to Europe and Top 40
• Website is slow and annoying
• Not as affordable as others
• No Global plans
• Short-term plans only

Flexiroam takes a bit of a different approach when it comes to their plans with eSims. They offer coverage in over 200 countries and most of the Global plans allow you to keep your data for very long periods.

So, if you travel often, but don’t need huge data packages, but do move around lots of countries and want your plan to last, then they are the best.

They also offer cheaper and more specific local and global plans as you would expect. The regional plans are great as you have a load of options from Africa to Oceania, Japan/Taiwan/Korea, and even Latin America.

If you travel a lot and don’t need much data, their plans work well across regions but you will probably end up using the data and buying more, which is expensive.

• Long-term plans up to 1 year
• Works in more than 200 countries
• Local, regional, & global plans
• A large set of regional options
• Quite expensive
• Limited data, max 10 GB plan

Sim2Fly is a great choice if you need an eSim for a short period of time for global use, in Asia, or in Thailand.

These are the only plans they offer which are a bit limited but they are affordable and their global plan includes over 120 countries which is pretty solid.

The plans are all short-term also with a max of 16 days, but that is just for Thailand. It is 15 days for the global and just 8 days for their Asia plan.

Their service is quick and reliable, activating the eSim is easy, but their website is a little slow and confusing.

READ MORE: Check out our detailed Sim2Fly review

• Offers global and regional plans
• Global plan includes more than 120 countries
• Affordable data prices
• Local plan for Thailand only
• Regional plan for Asia only
• Plans are very short term, 16 days max
• No unlimited data

Surfroam offers a prepaid eSim or physical sim card that you can use in over 200 countries. Simply buy the sim which comes with the cost amount in credit loaded and travel the world connected.

This system makes life extremely simple as there are no confusing plans, no limits, and all you have to do is top up when your credit runs out.

You can cross borders without any worries about plans and coverage. It is a great design but it comes with one flaw, the prices.

The prices change based on what country you are in and the most affordable option is $10 per GB, which is expensive compared to others.

Read our detailed review of the Surfroam eSim .

• Prepaid eSIM card with credit loaded
• No confusing plans
• Works in over 200 countries
• You can get a physical sim too
• Pay as you go, topping up is easy
• Simple to activate
• Prices vary by country
• Cheapest is $10 per GB - expensive

eSIM.net is a part of 02 and they offer incredibly affordable eSim plans for Europe, the Uk, and the USA too, but that is it.

Their plans are not global and do not work in any other countries.

All their plans are 30 days long and you can buy an unlimited data package for Europe or the USA for just $25 which is an absolute bargain.

eSim.net is another front-runner for the best eSim for Europe. Shame it doesn’t have a truly global reach yet but it probably won’t take long.

Read our detailed review of eSim.net here

• Very affordable
• Great service
• All monthly plans
• Unlimted data
• Limited to Uk, Europe, & USA

SimOptions works more like an eSim comparison website which means it pulls in the best deals across different providers across over 160 countries and more.

You can buy local plans by country or buy regional plans by continent, but global plans are not available.

Setting up your eSim is incredibly easy and you can even opt to get a physical sim card if your phone doesn’t carry an eSim.

The range of plans is extensive and you can easily find unlimited data packages if that is what you are looking for.

Bear in mind, the plans are all short-term with a max of 30 days.

• Prepaid traditional SIM cards and eSIM plans
• Sells eSims across a range of providers
• Lots of plans and great deals to choose from
• Excellent coverage around the world
• No global plans available
• No plans longer than 30 days

Know Roaming

Know Roaming offer a decent starter package for anyone wanting to get an international eSim. Their packages range from 500MB to 5 GB and the prices are competitive.

In terms of countries, they cover the major destinations with 84 countries included in their Global packages.

The prices are as follows:

• 500MB/1 Day – $4
• 1GB/15 Days – $12
• 1.5GB/3 Days – $10
• 5GB/30 Days – $50

The best plan is the 1.5GB for 3 days at $12, but if you don’t use a lot of data each day then the 1GB plan is way better.

READ MORE: Check out our detailed Knowroaming review

• Small global plans at good prices
• Decent list of countries
• Expensive for longer or bigger plans

Benefits of Using eSim for International Travel

There are lots of great things about using an eSim for international travel. The first is that you can simply turn on your phone, open your eSim, buy a plan, and be connected within minutes of landing in a different country.

You don’t have to queue to buy a new sim card or switch out local sim cards, you won’t lose your sim card either, and you can do all of this while keeping your normal phone number.

Topping up your eSim is also very easy. Instead of going to a store and getting a scratch card like in a lot of developing countries, you can just do it in a few seconds on your phone.

This allows those of us who travel often to cross borders into multiple countries and remain connected without having to do anything but push some buttons on our phones.

Another great thing about eSim technology is that if you only buy a data plan, you can still use your normal number for calls and texts, making your phone a dual sim device. This comes in very handy when your bank or Paypal sends you codes via text, as you don’t have to swap anything around.

Downsides of Using eSims

It’s not all sunshine and lollipops either. The biggest two things that annoy me about using an eSim (and I have been using a few for months now) are:

• You cannot share your hotspot with anyone you are traveling with
• You often don’t have telephone or SMS access on your eSim, so calling or messaging is still an issue

How to Choose the Best eSim for International Travel

So, you now know what an eSim is, how it works, and that you have a device that supports an eSim too. Let’s take a look at how to choose the right eSim provider for you.

What Countries Does The eSim provider cover?

Not all eSim providers offer coverage in the same countries. Some, like Vodafone who have a large global network, will cover more countries than other providers that have a smaller global network.

Think about the countries you travel to most and the new countries you would like to go to and choose an eSim provider that covers them all, or at least most of them.

How Much Data Do You Use?

Look at how much data you use when you are home. Your smartphone or your provider should be able to give you a report on this. Then make sure to find an eSim data plan to match.

Not all global data plans have the same amount of data allowance and the last thing you need is to run out of data while you are traveling.

I also find that it is not always a matter of how much data you usually use either. Why? Because when you are on the road your access to data is different.

• You may or may not have data at your accommodation
• You might be working at a cafe or workplace

So, you have to think about what you need the data for, and when you need it.

How Fast Do You Need Your Connection To Be?

eSim providers also have different data roaming speeds which affect how fast you can download and upload data.

These days we don’t have much patience for things to load so choose a data package from a provider with enough speed to keep you happy and working.

We all want to pay affordable prices whenever we can but pricing varies across different providers and different eSim plans. Be sure to do some research into eSim global plans so you can find one that gives you what you need at the right price.

What Is An eSim?

When I first heard of an eSim I assumed it was like an app, an electronic sim card you download to your phone. But, that is not the case. An eSim is an Embedded Subscriber Identity Module which means it is pretty much a built-in sim card inside your phone.

An eSim behaves just like a traditional physical sim card but you can’t remove it, it is as I said, built into your phone. This does make life easy as you don’t have to take out one physical sim card and replace it with another when you get to a new country.

With an eSim card, it will just continue to work, so long as the eSim provider has eSim plans for the particular country you are in.

But, not all countries are supported by all eSim providers, and not all devices have an eSim built inside them, as it is a relatively new technology.

Countries That Support eSim

Not every country in the world supports the use of eSims but the list is growing. Currently, you can use an eSim in around 90 countries and it used to only be 10, so many other countries will soon be added.

To see a full list of the many countries that support eSims, follow this link .

Devices Compatible with eSim

Since an eSim needs to be built into a device, not all devices have an eSim inside them, it is just the newer models of smartphones and tablets that support them. You can find a list of the supported devices below.

Iphone & Ipad

• iPhone: 14, 14 Plus, 14 Pro, 14 Pro Max, 13, 13 Pro, 13 Pro Max, 13 Mini, 12, 12 Mini, 12 Pro, 12 Pro Max, 11, 11 Pro, 11 Pro Max, XS, XS Max, XR, SE (2020), SE (2022).
• iPad Air: (3rd generation), (4th generation)
• iPad Pro 11‑inch: 1st, 2nd, & 3rd generation)
• iPad Pro 12.9‑inch: 3rd, 4th, & 5th generation)
• iPad: 7th, 8th, & 9th generation
• iPad Mini: 5th & 6th generation

Be aware that only iPads that have cellular connectivity work with eSims.

Android Phones

• Samsung Galaxy: S22 Ultra 5G, S22+ 5G, S22 5G, S21 Ultra 5G, S21 5G, S21+ 5G, S20, S20+, Z Flip, Z Flip3 5G, Z Fold3, Z Fold2, Fold, Note 20 Ultra, Note 20+, Note 20

But, US versions of Samsung S20/S21 and Galaxy Z Flip 5G plus USA and Hong Kong versions of the Samsung Note 20 Ultra and Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 2 do not support eSims. Also, most Samsung devices bought in South Korea do not support eSIMs.

• Google Pixel: 3, 3 XL, 3a, 3a XL, 4, 4a, 4 XL, 5, 6, 6 Pro, 6a, 7, 7 Pro

But, Google Pixel 3 phones bought in Australia, Taiwan, and Japan do support eSims. Nor do Pixel 3 models bought with US or Canadian carriers other than Sprint and Google Fi. Also, any Pixel 3a models bought in South East Asia and with Verizon service will not work.

• HAMMER: Explorer PRO, Blade 3, Blade 5G, myPhone NOW eSIM
• Motorola: Razr 2019, Razr 5G
• Huawei: P40, P40 Pro, Mate 40 Pro
• OPPO: Find X3 Pro, Find X5 Pro, Find X5
• Sony Xperia: 10 III Lite, 10 IV, 1 IV

Other Devices That Support eSim

• ACER: Swift 3, Swift 7
• ASUS: Mini Transformer T103HAF, NovaGo TP370QL, Vivobook Flip 14 TP401NA
• Dell Latitude: 9510, 7410, 7310, 9410, 7210 2-in-1
• HP: Elitebook G5, Probook G5, Zbook G5, Spectre Folio 13
• Lenovo: Yoga C630, Miix 630, Yoga 520, Yoga 720 convertible laptops
• Surface: Go 3, Pro X, Duo 2, Duo
• Others: Nuu Mobile X5, Gemini PDA 4G+Wi-Fi, Xiaomi 12T Pro, Windows 10*/ Windows 11

FAQs About Using eSim for International Travel

• Overview Guide
• 1 Week Itinerary
• Train Journeys
• Epic Drives
• Stunning Lakes
• Historic Castles
• Lauterbrunnen
• Grindelwald
• Chocolate Tours
• Swiss National Park
• Majestic Mountains
• Spectacular Waterfalls
• Famous Things
• Tasty Fondue
• 10 Day Itinerary
• Cherry Blossoms
• Tokyo Shrines
• Dos and Don’ts
• Osaka Guide
• Osaka Itinerary
• Osaka or Kyoto
• Kyoto Day Trips
• Matsumoto Castle
• Tokyo Luxury Hotels
• Island Hopping
• Best Campsites
• Driving Tips
• Beaune, France
• Barcelona Itinerary
• Spain Itinerary
• Greece Itinerary
• Italy Road Trips
• Berlin Day Trips
• Norway Northern Lights
• Netherlands National Parks
• Mostar, Bosnia
• Best Airlines
• Midwest Ski Resorts
• Florida RV Parks
• Washington RV Parks
• Oregon RV Parks
• Utah Camping
• Texas Camping
• Chicago National Parks
• East Coast National Parks
• Colorado National Parks
• Joshua Tree
• Yellowstone
• Alberta Hikes
• Flashlights
• Water Filters
• Sleeping Pads
• Solar Lanterns
• Tent Brands
• 4-Person Tents
• 4 Seasons Tents
• Backpacking Tents
• Beach Tents
• Cabin Tents
• Multi-room Tents
• Pop-up Tents
• Truck Bed Tents
• Underwear (Men)
• Backpacks Under $100
• Microspikes
• Boonie Hats
• In The World
• New Zealand
• Hardisde Luggage
• Lightweight Luggage
• Luggage Sets
• Spinner Luggage
• Durable Suitcases
• Duffel Bags
• Kids Luggage
• Teen Luggage
• Space Saving Luggage
• Business Carry-Ons
• Garment Carry-Ons
• Suitcases Under $50
• Travel Briefcase
• Zipperless Suitcases
• Rolling Briefcase
• Luggage Straps
• Luxury Brands
• American Tourister
• AmazonBasics
• Delsey Chatelet
• Anti-Theft Backpacks
• Backpacks Under $50
• Baby Carrier Backpacks
• Cooler Backpacks
• Backpacking Backpacks
• Climbing Backpacks
• Backpacks for Back Pain
• Beach Backpacks
• Hiking Backpacks
• Business Travel Backpacks
• Laptop Backpacks
• Backpacks for Tablets
• Commuter Backpacks
• Travel Backpacks (Men)
• Travel Backpacks (Women)
• Waterproof Backpacks
• Wheeled Backpacks
• Down Jackets
• Down Parkas
• Fleece Jackets
• Hardshell Jackets
• Rain Jackets
• Softshell Jackets
• Eco Friendly Jackets
• Gore Tex Alternatives
• Heated Jackets
• Lightweight Jackets
• 3-in-1 Waterproof Jackets
• Parajumper Jackets
• Rain Poncho
• Ski Jackets
• Travel Hoodies
• Travel Jackets
• Winter Coats
• Helly Hansen
• Mammut Jackets
• Patagonia Nanopuff
• Survival Jackets
• Flower Captions
• Waterfall Captions
• Tree Captions
• Sunset Captions
• Sunflower Captions
• Rainbow Captions
• Paddle Boarding Captions
• Hot Air Balloon Captions
• Kayaking Captions
• Airplane Captions For Instagram
• Forest Captions

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The Best eSIM on the Market: How to Get Unlimited Data for Your Trip

When I started backpacking around the world, there were no smartphones. If you needed to call home, you had to find a pay phone and if you needed to use a computer to look something up or send an email, you had to find an internet café.

But times have changed.

These days, travelers rely on their phones to find cheap flights , book accommodation, look up things to see and do, translate menus, get directions, and much more.

And while I think a lot of travelers maybe spend too much time on their phone , phones are a vital part of the savvy traveler’s arsenal .

That means travelers need reliable mobile data so they can find the information they need and keep in touch with friends and family back home.

For travelers around the world, the best way to ensure you have access to the internet and are able to stay connected is with an eSIM .

While it’s definitely possible to buy a SIM card on arrival to your destination, eSIMs are super easy to use and allow you to get prepared in advance so that you have mobile data the moment you land. They’re also cheaper and come with better support.

And if you’re visiting multiple countries, buying (and keeping track of) multiple SIM cards can be a hassle.

In this post, I’ll go over what exactly an eSIM is and how you can get one for your next trip so you can save money and stay connected during your next trip.

Table of Contents

What is an eSIM?

The best esim for travelers, how to install a holafly esim.

A SIM card is a small memory card that you insert into your smartphone in order to make calls and use the mobile data. It has unique identifiers that ensure that when people call you, the call comes to your device. You generally get one from your phone provider when you sign your contract.

An eSIM is a digital version of this. Instead of a physical memory card, you’ll install software on your smartphone that replicates the same functions as the physical card.

Most smartphones only have a single port for a SIM card so the benefit of eSIMs is that you can have multiple eSIMs on a single device.

For example, if you’re from Australia and are visiting the United States, you’ll need to physically remove your Australian SIM card on arrival and install a US SIM card if you want to avoid paying excessive roaming fees. But once you swap SIM cards, you won’t be able to receive calls or texts to your Australian phone number unless you physically remove the US SIM card and put the Australian SIM card back into your phone.

This is a tedious process if you need to access multiple numbers during your trip. Hence the convenience of eSIMs. They make it super easy to visit multiple countries each year without having to juggle SIM cards. And since they let you get set up before you arrive, they provide more peace of mind.  

The best eSIM on the market is Holafly . They have a ton of plans with unlimited data and they’re connected to the best networks so you’re covered no matter where you travel. They current offer plans to 160 destinations, including plans with unlimited data in Europe, the United States, Mexico, China, Turkey, and Japan.

Holafly’s eSIMs are super easy to install and Holafly offers 24/7 support so if you have an issue getting setup (or during your trip) you can reach out to them directly. Plus, if you’re on iOS 17.4, there’s a handy automatic installation feature that streamlines the process even more.

Here’s a quick overview of the Holafly eSIM :

• Plans from 5-90 days
• Unlimited data starting at $19 USD
• Easy installation process (automatic on iOS 17.4)
• 24/7 customer support
• Digital SIM so your current physical SIM will still work
• Doesn’t impact your WhatsApp number
• No data sharing in some destinations so you can’t hotspot
• Local phone number/SMS is available in only a few countries (most eSIMs are data only)

With Holafly, hotspotting is available in North America, but not others. While not being able to hotspot might be an issue for digital nomads, it’s likely not an issue for most travelers. And while there are a few countries (such as France and Austria) in which you get a local number to make/receive local calls, for the most part Holafly eSIMS just provide data. You’ll still be able to take calls over Facebook, Skype, WhatsApp, and other online platforms though.

Overall, the pros vastly outweigh the cons, making Holafly the best choice for eSIMs no matter where you travel.  

To buy and setup your eSIM, simply visit holafly.com or download Holafly’s app (via the App Store or Play store ). Once you’re there, you just need to follow these super simple steps:

Once you order your eSIM you’ll get instructions sent to you with more details:

While you can download your eSIM on arrival, it’s best to get everything set up in advance. Install your eSIM once you get it so that everything is ready. That way, if there’s an issue you can talk to support before you depart.

While it may seem complicated, activating an eSIM only takes a couple minutes. And again, iOS 17.4 users can take advantage of the new automatic installation process (you can still choose manual or QR code installation if you prefer). Since Holafly has 24/7 customer support, if you need assistance they can walk you through it.

Again, while you could do all of this on arrival, it’s best to prepare your eSIM in advance. That way you’ll have access to it when you land so that you can look up transportation, call an Uber, contact your accommodation, or do whatever else you need to do on arrival.

It’s never been easier to stay connected during your travels. No matter where you’re going in the world, having access to mobile data is a must. By getting a Holafly eSIM for your next trip, you’ll be able to stay connected, stay safe, and ensure you make the most of your time in this massive, diverse country!

Book Your Trip: Logistical Tips and Tricks

Book Your Flight Find a cheap flight by using Skyscanner . It’s my favorite search engine because it searches websites and airlines around the globe so you always know no stone is being left unturned.

Book Your Accommodation You can book your hostel with Hostelworld . If you want to stay somewhere other than a hostel, use Booking.com as it consistently returns the cheapest rates for guesthouses and hotels.

Don’t Forget Travel Insurance Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. My favorite companies that offer the best service and value are:

• SafetyWing (best for everyone)
• Insure My Trip (for those 70 and over)
• Medjet (for additional evacuation coverage)

Want to Travel for Free? Travel credit cards allow you to earn points that can be redeemed for free flights and accommodation — all without any extra spending. Check out my guide to picking the right card and my current favorites to get started and see the latest best deals.

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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

Best eSIM for international travel

For international travel, eSIMS are a great way to get data because they’re easy, fast, and affordable!

Written by Michael Turtle

Michael Turtle is the founder of Time Travel Turtle. A journalist for more than 20 years, he's been travelling the world since 2011.

Michael Turtle is the founder of Time Travel Turtle and has been travelling full time for a decade.

Updated: May 8, 2024

The best eSIM for international travel

I think eSIMs are one of the best ways to get phone data while you're travelling and take the stress out of arranging a plan with a local telco.

But the best eSIM providers for travel offer different plans, and it's worth doing the research the find which one is best for you.

That's why I've put together this comprehensive guide to the best eSIMs for travellers.

What is an eSIM?

Is an esim the best option for you, a local telco.

Believe it or not, when I first started travelling full-time more than a decade ago, I didn’t even have a phone with me.

After feeling like I had been a slave to my BlackBerry (yes, I’m that old!) in my previous job, I wanted to roam the world without a constant digital distraction. I thought being disconnected from technology during the day would mean a better connection with the people and places I was exploring.

I managed to get away with that for about a year before I finally bought an iPhone. Now, looking back on it, I don’t know how I survived.

While I still love the idea of distraction-free travel, having access to the internet on my phone has become such an important part of how I discover new destinations. Being able to find a bus timetable, get a restaurant recommendation, research a landmark I’m visiting – all of it enriches my days, keeps me safe, and introduces me to things I might otherwise have missed.

So, what’s the best way to get data on your phone when you travel?

Well, I used to buy local SIM cards when I arrived in a new destination, and that’s still a decent option (which I’ll discuss shortly). But these days, most of the time, I now use an eSIM for international travel.

An eSIM is a connection to a phone provider that uses a chip built in to your phone, rather than a physical SIM that you need to insert. When you buy an eSIM, what you’re actually buying is a short contract with a telco that will use this permanent chip within your phone to connect you.

Should I get an eSIM?

There are advantages and disadvantages to eSIMs for travellers, and whether you should get one depends on your circumstances. The benefits of an eSIM include: you don’t need to visit a store, there’s a large range of plans, it works alongside your usual SIM card, and it can cover multiple countries.

Can you use an eSIM internationally?

While you can get an eSIM for your home country, the biggest benefits of an eSIM are for travellers. You can buy an eSIM for just one country, or you can get international ones that cover all the countries in a region – or even a global one for the whole world!

Can any phone use an eSIM?

Not every phone has the technology to use an eSIM, although most released in the past few years are compatible. Make sure you check your model first. Also, if your phone is locked to a single provider, then an eSIM probably won’t work (just as inserting a different physical SIM won’t work).

I feel like a lot of travellers still don’t know much about eSIMS because, even though the technology has been around for a few years, there’s been a slow uptake. But it’s now got to a point where the best eSIM plans offer genuinely good benefits for travellers and the upsides are starting to outweigh the downsides these days.

In this article, I’m going to first run you through some of the basics of eSIMs, in case you haven’t come across the concept before.

If you do know a bit about the technology, you can jump straight down to my section about the best eSIM for international travel .

If you just want the short answer, I think Airalo offers the best eSIM for international travel . You can see its range of plans here .

For most travellers, there are definitely going to be some advantages to getting an eSIM, and I would recommend giving it a try if you haven’t used one before.

That’s what I did – and I haven’t looked back. But I have tried a few different providers, to get a sense of what is the best eSIM for international travel.

It’s this experience – plus lots of research into the latest eSIM plans – that I’m going to share, to help you arrange your phone date for your trip.

Although you may think the ‘e’ stands for ‘electronic’, eSIM is actually short for ’embedded SIM’ because that’s exactly what it is – a chip that is embedded into your phone.

Unlike physical SIMs, which have certain information hard-coded into them, an eSIM can be reprogrammed with different information. That’s why you are able to use it to connect to different phone plans around the world without putting anything physical into your phone.

So, what you’re doing when you ‘buy an eSIM’ is not actually buying any kind of card. What you’re doing is buying a temporary contract with a service provider, and then quickly reprogramming this chip in your phone to connect to it, as if it was a physical SIM.

If the idea of ‘reprogramming’ sounds complicated, don’t worry, it’s easy. Normally you’ll get a QR code or some kind of other link that lets you do it all automatically in just a few seconds.

All you have to do is go to an online retailer, choose the best eSIM plan for your circumstances (and buy it), then click the link or scan the QR code that you’ll be sent with the receipt – and, bam, it’s all done and you should be connected!

The first phones to use eSIMs were released in 2018 and they have slowly grown in popularity since then. Most modern phones now support eSIMs – and, in fact, there are iPhone models that are eSIM-only!

But it’s still worth checking if your device supports eSIMs and you can do that on this list of supported devices .

You can get eSIMS that include phone calls and text, completely replacing the need for any kind of physical SIM. But most of them just offer data at the moment, and they’re the ones I’m going to concentrate on in this article about the best eSIMs for international travel.

The invention of the eSIM – up there with the inventions of the wheel and fire, in the eyes of this regular traveller – has made my time overseas so incredibly simple.

There are definitely many advantages to using an eSIM, which is why I do it most of the time now.

But there are also some disadvantages that you need to consider, because the best eSIM for international travel for one person might not be the best for you. It depends on each scenario.

The first advantage of an eSIM is the convenience . With a physical SIM, you need to actually go into a store when you arrive in a destination to buy it, which can be a hassle and takes away precious time from your trip.

With an eSIM, everything is done online and you can get connected instantly wherever you are.

The second advantage is that you’ll be immediately connected . If you’ve arranged your eSIM in advance, as soon as you land in a new country and turn your phone on, you’ll be able to use the data.

I find this a really useful feature when I need to get in touch with someone waiting for me at the airport, or when I want to see when the next train to the city is, for example. (And to check my email for anything urgent after a 15-hour flight!)

Another advantage is that you can get eSIMs with regional plans or even global plans . It means that, if you’re visiting multiple countries on your trip, you don’t need to arrange a new SIM card each time you cross the border.

This isn’t such an issue in Europe, where most local SIMs have some level of sharing with other EU countries. But it’s particularly useful for regions like Southeast Asia where travellers often do go between countries, or for cruises.

On that note, I also like the advantage that there is a much wider range of data plans to choose from than traditional SIM cards. You can often choose different durations and different gigabyte limits (or unlimited), all offered at different price points.

This is great because it means you don’t need to pay more for extra time or data that you’ll never use if you’re on a short trip or only using your phone occasionally.

And the final (and huge) advantage that I love is that the eSIM works alongside a physical SIM , meaning your usual SIM card from home will also be active at the same time.

You can use your foreign eSIM to access mobile data affordably, while also using your physical SIM card to receive phone calls and SMS messages to your usual number (which is very handy for those login verification codes that so many organisations still insist on sending).

Disadvantages

Now, there are some downsides, and I’m not going to pretend they’ll be insignificant for some travellers.

The first disadvantage is that most eSIMs only offer data , not calls and text, which may not be convenient. Personally, I rarely make phone calls when I’m overseas and, if I do, I just use Skype or WhatsApp over data.

But if local calls are something you need, you may have to look harder to find an eSIM that offers that ( Simify has some good ones, for instance), or just stick with a physical SIM.

Another small disadvantage is that I find my phone battery goes down faster than usual because it’s connecting to two networks at once. This can be mitigated by turning one (or both) of the networks off in the settings, and I do quite often turn off my physical SIM unless I’m expecting a message or a call.

But the biggest disadvantage is the price. In most cases, an eSIM is more expensive than a local physical SIM. Or, at least, you get a lot less data for the same cost.

For example, an eSIM for Italy with 5 gigabytes over 30 days costs about US$13, while for the same price, you can get a physical SIM with more than 50 gigabytes over the same period (plus calls).

An eSIM for Thailand gets you unlimited data over 15 days for US$20, while a local SIM can get you 5 gigabytes over 30 days for around US$6 (if you can work out how to buy it at the convenience store).

The difference in value does change quite markedly for each country, so this could be less of an issue for some trips. And I think that Nomad tends to have some cheaper options, which can help.

But it’s definitely something to consider and becomes more of a problem if you’re planning to use a lot of data and need a bigger plan.

The best eSIM providers for travel

Now, let’s have a look at the top eSIM providers because they each offer slightly different types of products.

It’s not just about what they promise, but how much it costs – and also how reliable it is.

The short version of my findings is as follows.

• Best for general use: Airalo
• Best for unlimited data: Holafly
• Best prices: Nomad
• Best for phone calls: Simify
• Best for occasional use: Drimsim
• Best for long term: A local telco

The following recommendations are ranked in order, starting with the best – but I would also suggest you have a think about what type of eSim you want because they should be a factor in your choice.

One of the most popular eSIM providers for travellers is Airalo and, I can tell you, it’s the one that I use most of the time.

It’s got great coverage across the world and uses major telcos for its connections in almost all cases (for example: Optus in Australia, O2 in the UK, and T-Mobile in the US).

Airalo has a lot of flexibility in the geography of what it covers. You can choose eSIMs by country; or it has regional plans that cover areas like 39 European countries, 13 Asian countries, and 19 South American countries; and it has global plans as well.

The price of the eSIMs is about average, and you can definitely get a good price for quite a few key countries like Japan, Italy, and the UK. (The rate isn’t quite as good for countries like Mexico, India, and China, though.)

Almost all the eSIMs are based on a fixed data limit, such as 1 gigabyte, or 10 gigabytes – which should be fine for most people but may be an issue if you’re planning to use a lot of phone data.

Buying an eSIM from Airalo is very easy and the instructions for setting it up are simple. I did, however, get a very slow response when I needed support with a problem when I was travelling on the Greek islands , which is the main concern I have.

Still, for most travellers, I think this is the easiest and most reliable eSIM option, and it shouldn’t be too expensive for most countries you want to visit.

The next best eSIM provider, in my opinion, is Holafly. And it has quite a significantly different offering from Airalo.

Holafly is also a large international retailer that uses the major telcos around the world. It’s also easy to use and the setup is really simple. And it’s got a wide coverage of countries and you should be able to find an eSIM for almost anywhere you want to go.

The main selling point of Holafly is that most of the eSIM plans it offers are for unlimited data. Rather than having to guess how much you think you’ll use, you can just buy an eSIM for a duration and use it to your heart’s content!

The downside to this approach, though, is that the plans tend to be noticeably more expensive than the plans with a set amount of data. Using France as an example, Airalo offers a 30-day plan with 10GB for US$23. In contrast, the 30-day plan with Holafly costs US$64.

It’s a huge difference, and if you’re not going to use much data, it’s not worth paying for it. But if you’re a big user and you know you’re going to need a lot of data over a month, it’s probably cheaper to use a Holafly unlimited plan than buy multiple eSIMs over the month.

One thing to add, though. I think Holafly’s customer service is up there as the best, so for some people it may also be worth the extra cost to have that comfort.

Another good eSIM provider, which is similar to both Airalo and Holafly, is Nomad. Like the others I’ve already recommended, it offers plans in most countries and has good coverage in almost of all them.

To be honest, there is no particular reason why it’s better than the other two. But, having said that, I haven’t had any experiences that would make me say it’s worse than the others.

Quite a lot of the eSIMS that Nomad is selling are with the same telcos as the others and are just as easy to set up. One point of difference is that it has both data-limited and unlimited plans for some countries, so you can compare your options.

In some cases, Nomad is a bit cheaper than the larger stores, which is probably the main good reason to use it instead.

Looking at Greece as an example, if you want 10 gigabytes over 30 days, Airalo costs US$25 while Nomad costs US$19.

And in Thailand, for example, 10 days of unlimited data with Holafly costs US$34 while it’s US$30 with Nomad. (Although, in this case, you can get a deal of 15 days unlimited with Airalo for US$20.)

The point is, that these top eSIM providers will have slightly different prices for each country depending on exactly what deal they’ve made with local operators. So it’s worth checking each of them if you want to find the cheapest and save a few dollars.

Now to Simify, which isn’t quite in the same league as the ones I’ve already mentioned. That’s because Simify is best known for physical SIM cards for travellers, and is actually a leader in that area.

(If you would still prefer to use a physical SIM, or want to compare the plans with an eSIM, I would recommend having a look at what Simify has to offer.)

The company has now branched out to eSIMs but doesn’t have quite the range of plans as the shops that do that exclusively.

But what Simify does offer is eSIMs that also include phone call and text, which may be a big deal for you!!

For example, it has this Europe & UK eSIM with 15 gigabytes for 30 days that also includes unlimited local calls , for just US$40. Compare that to Airalo, which gives you 10 gigabytes for 30 days (and no calls) for US$37, and you’ll see it’s a fantastic price!

Another great eSIM plan it offers is 30 days of unlimited data and local calls in the USA for just US$50 , which I think is one of the best eSIM plans you can get. (For that price with Nomad, you get 30 gigabytes and no calls.)

The reason I haven’t ranked Simify higher in this list is purely because it doesn’t cover nearly as many countries. But it’s one of the best options for the US, Europe, Japan, and parts of SE Asia.

I’ll be honest – Drimsim is not one of my favourite eSIM providers. So, why am I suggesting it here? Well, because it offers something different to all the others and there is one scenario where it might be a better choice for you.

The concept behind Drimsim is that you don’t buy an eSIM for a particular country, for a set amount of time, or even a set amount of data.

Instead, you pay a €10/month fee to have an eSIM which will connect from any country in the world! You then pay just for the data you use, which for most countries is €0.01 per megabyte or €10 per gigabyte.

That means if you only use 1 gigabyte of data in a month, you’ll pay €20 – which is more expensive than many SIMs for the data, but cheaper than many for the duration.

I think the main scenario where Drimsim is the best eSIM is when you’re doing long-term travel through multiple countries and you’re not planning to use much phone data – perhaps you just want to be able to check a map or look up a train timetable occasionally.

It may also be useful if you’re on a cruise when you visit lots of countries but for short periods, for instance. Or if you’ll have wifi most of the time and just want phone data as a backup.

In those cases, Drimsim may end up cheaper and you’ll have the convenience of connecting to networks everywhere in the world.

All of the best eSIM providers I have mentioned above are global stores that are offering deals from a range of international providers. I generally like to use one of these global stores because they are much easier (they’re in English, for starters!)

But in many countries, you’ll also find the usual domestic telcos are now also offering their own eSIMs – sometimes aimed at locals, and also sometimes at travellers.

A lot of the time, the packages they’re selling are just the same as the ones you’ll find on Airalo. But sometimes they do have better deals that’ll get you more data or a cheaper rate.

The plans can be confusing, especially if the provider’s website isn’t primarily in English, but it may be worth having a look to see what you can find – especially if you’re planning to stay in a single country for a long time and/or want to use a lot of data.

In the end, any of these eSIM providers I’ve recommended should give you a reliable connection for your trip. Which one is best for you will depend on the specific circumstances of your trip.

In most cases, especially for average holidays, you’ll find an eSIM is much easier than a physical SIM card and won’t cost much more unless you’re planning to use a lot of data.

Setting it up is easy and the best eSIM providers all have detailed instructions.

Remember: Not every device supports eSIMs, and you probably won’t be able to use one if your phone is locked to your home provider. Check this list of eSIM-compatible phones .

If you have any experiences (good or bad) with one of these providers, or you’ve got another one you would like to recommend, just let me know in the comments below.

12 thoughts on “Best eSIM for international travel”

The info was really helpful. I’m going to the Shetland island a month and since Brexit it is more expensive to use data on the phone compared with the rest of Europe.

Kind regards Ulla Pietarinen Sweden

Don’t know if I will find my way here again but I have this problem and you can inbox me at [email protected] . I just bought an esim capable phone to get started on this feature. while there are so many out there my problem is this: Finding a plan that covers these 3 things: (1) USA and the Caribbean (2) Besides GoogleFi who else has a Phone number in theirs ? (3) Who has a full 360/5 day plan. ? Most people brag on Airalo but they only have 180 days Is Keepgo legit ? So my thing is year round Data and be able to gain a non expiring phone number. Do you have a recommendation I can use.

The JULY15 code for Airalo is not accepted by Airalo

The Drimsim SIM or eSIM is a ** one-time ** 10 euro cost. Not monthly. As such, it looks like a good thing to have in my cell phone, ready to turn on if needed. Data is available in over 200 countries. And you can track costs from their App. You only pay for the data you use (fine grained, measured in KB) and the cost isn’t all that bad, typically $10-$25 per GB. But that means you can still do a lot of E-mailing for $1.

I think of the cost as just insurance, in case whatever other plan I use doesn’t work well in a particular country. It gives me another option.

No comparison on the throughput put you get with each one. Tried Airalo before and with roaming, speed throughput was abysmal… less than 1-2Mbps even on 4G!!!!

Thanks Michael for this information. We are just about to head off to Thailand and Egypt for 5 weeks and we were trying to choose between Airalo and Holafly. I think in this instance we may do Holafly as you know we will be using a lot of data. Cheers Jane

Amazing and helpful post! Thank you!

Simify no longer offers eSims for the US that cover both calls and data

This is an extremely well researched and well written article. Good job! Wish there were more like it.

Drimsin sounds much better in your description, as it actually is. I saw the part with a cruise, which actually does not work. I plan a cruise from Australia to Vanuatu, Fiji, New Caledonia, Samoa, Tahiti. Half of the countries do not work!

Awesome information, thank you for writing this! It helps me so much to know first of all that my phone is not compatible w/ esim so i know to get a new phone before my upcoming journey! Also how these contraptions really work is great for newbie like myself. I don’t like to use alot of phone apps and stuff but think i will need it when in Istanbul, Greece & italy on my trip, just to find my way around etc.

I was just planning a trip abroad to Japan and was searching for reliable esim options. Your post helped me a lot in making an informed decision. I think the GlocalMe Uno is a great choice for individuals like me who are new to esims. Thanks for sharing!

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Best Global Prepaid eSIM Providers of 2024

Jarrod Suda

A writer and editor at Monito, Jarrod is passionate about helping people apply today’s powerful finance technologies to their lives. He brings his background in international affairs and his experiences living in Japan to provide readers with comprehensive information that also acknowledges the local context.

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.

Staying connected while traveling internationally has never been easier or more affordable. The rise of eSIM technology means you can skip the queue and hassle of buying a local SIM card upon arrival at your destination.

Whether you're planning a short getaway or an extended stay, eSIMs offer flexible plans ranging from a few days to a year, providing excellent network coverage wherever you go.

In this guide, you'll find a curation of the top eSIM providers for 2024, making it easier for you to choose the best option for your next international trip. No matter what continent your travels take you to, these eSIMs are easy to install and use.

Read on to discover the leading players in the eSIM market and find the perfect solution to stay connected on your travels:

In a hurry? Here are our top picks:

• Holafly offers excellent unlimited data plans in 160+ countries and regions for simple, stress-free data access.
• Airalo covers an impressive 200+ countries with cheap global, regional, and local plans for your specific needs.

The Best Prepaid eSIM Providers for International Travel

• 01. Airalo scroll down
• 02. Holafly scroll down
• 03. Nomad eSIM scroll down
• 04. Yesim scroll down
• 05. Instabridge scroll down
• 06. Airhub scroll down
• 07. Global YO scroll down
• 08. GigSky scroll down
• 09. eSIM4Travel scroll down
• 10. BNESIM scroll down
• 11. JetPac scroll down
• 12. iRoamly scroll down
• 13. GoMo World scroll down
• 14. aloSIM scroll down
• 15. Flexiroam scroll down
• 16. Saily scroll down
• 17. SimOptions scroll down
• 18. Maya Mobile scroll down
• 19. Ubigi scroll down
• 20. Holiday eSIM scroll down
• 21. GlobaleSIM scroll down

Airalo: Best Overall For Flexible Plans, Cost, and Global Coverage

Airalo is one of the first eSIM provider companies, known for its extensive coverage in over 200 countries and competitive pricing. Founded in 2019, it offers local, regional, and global eSIM packages that help travelers avoid high roaming fees, easily purchased and activated through its user-friendly app​.

The Eurolink package, covering 39 European countries, is a standout feature, offering significant convenience and cost savings for frequent travelers​​. Praised for its affordability and ease of use, Airalo is a top choice for those looking to stay connected without the hassle of traditional SIM cards​.

Holafly: Best for Unlimited Data Users

Covering over 160 countries, Holafly stands out for its unlimited data plans. The company offers unlimited data plans to entire regions as well, such as across Europe, North America, Africa, Oceania, and more. Holafly supports hotspot tethering, and high performance and speed through its partnerships with local networks.

Nomad: Wide Collection of Regional Plans

Founded in 2020, Nomad offers a user-friendly app that simplifies the process of purchasing and activating eSIMs. Customers praise the company for its competitive pricing.

Nomad offers a wide range of regional plans, including CN-JP-KR, SG-MY-PH, IT-FR-DE, Europe, APAC, North America, Global, Nordic, SEA-Oceania, SEA-Plus, Africa, and the Middle East. Nomad also offers eSIMs with SMS capability.

Yesim: Best for Low Cost Per GB

Yesim is a Swiss-based eSIM company known for its affordability (by $ per GB) and for its variety of plans. It provides local, regional, and global eSIM plans, including options for unlimited data, making it suitable for both short-term and long-term travelers​. Additionally, Yesim offers a unique Ycoins system, enabling you to earn credits for future purchases through referrals and other actions.

Instabridge: Cheap 1 GB Plans

Instabridge stands out for its cheap 1 GB plans for short, one-week trips abroad. It offers additional services like WiFi mapping, cloud storage, VPN, and a data-saving browser enhancing the online experience.

Airhub: Great Data Plans With Talk and Text

Airhub is one of the most well-known eSIM providers, with competitive eSIM plans for popular destinations in Europe, East Asia, and the Middle East. It offers a free eSIM loaded with 100 MB at sign up, and ensures you with a 100% money back guarantee on its plans.

Global YO: Travel Companion eSIM App

With Global YO 's platform, you can enjoy a wealth of interactive and entertainment features like AI-generated celebrity city guides and indie movie streaming. Their YOYO$ rewards program allows you to earn credits for data and other products. Tailored for the modern nomad, Global YO keeps you connected, entertained, and rewarded with plans that you can adapt to both your location and usage.

GigSky: Offers Free eSIM With 100 MB

Unlike many other eSIM providers, GigSky offers data for cruises, the open seas, and flights (compatible with 19 airlines). In addition, Visa cardholders may qualify for complimentary data. Overall, GigSky is well-rated for its reliability and ease of management through a dedicated app.

eSIM4Travel: Good For Less Common Countries

eSIM4Travel offers competitive pricing and a network of partner telecommunication service providers. It has plans in most countries worldwide, including less common eSIMs for countries like Senegal, Sudan, and the DR Congo.

BNESIM: Great for Plans With Phone Numbers

BNESIM's eSIMs come with a user-friendly BNE app for easy management of eSIMs and SIM cards. Additionally, BNESIM offers various services such as international phone numbers, worldwide calls, and VPN services to enhance the connectivity experience.

JetPac: Access Airport Lounges

Jetpac is a prominent eSIM provider developed by Circles, a global tech company based in Singapore. One of its unique features is the complimentary airport lounge access for flight delays over 60 minutes. Jetpac offers a variety of data plans tailored to different travel needs, including global, regional, and single-country options.

iRoamly: Cheap Options in East and Southeast Asia

iRoamly provides plans suitable for both short-term and long-term travel with an easy activation processes and unlimited data options.

GoMo World: Competitive 30-Day Plans

GoMo World has most of its plans starting at €3.99, providing a simple pricing system to access data. They also offer an app to download, activate, and manage your eSIMs during your travels.

aloSIM: Well-Price Plans in Europe

AloSIM's straightforward eSIM solutions are designed for those seeking immediate and reliable connectivity. You have the ability to top up data easily through a user-centric app, although it does not offer global eSIM plans.

Flexiroam: Highly-Rated App By Customers

Flexiroam stands out as a popular eSIM provider with high customer ratings. Flexiroam offers both short-term and long-term plans, catering to travelers and business professionals alike. Flexiroam's user-friendly app is also highly-rated and well-liked by customers.

Saily: Secure and Reliable Connection

Saily, developed by the creators of NordVPN, offers a secure eSIM service. Saily has a presence in over 150 countries, state-of-the-art security, and a user-friendly app interface.

SimOptions: Also Delivers Physical SIMs

SimOptions partners with some of the most well-known network operators around the world to power their eSIMs. They send you a QR-code to scan to install your eSIM. SimOptions also sells traditional physical SIM cards, which they deliver to your designated address.

Maya Mobile: Focuses on 4G Speeds or More

Maya Mobile is a solid eSIM service provider that supports 4G to 5G speeds with optional auto-renew. Their eSIMs also support Wi-Fi hotspots .

Ubigi: Power WiFi In Your Car

Ubigi offers a range of eSIM solutions tailored for global travelers and business professionals, including unique capabilities for powering Wi-Fi in your car. However, Ubigi's plans might not be the cheapest. If you are looking for plans with 20 GB or more, you'll find cheaper options elsewhere.

Holiday eSIM: Get eSIMs Authorised by Orange France

Holiday eSIM serves as an authorized distributor for Orange France Holiday. Known for providing mostly 30-day plans, Holiday eSIM is ideal if you need extended connectivity rather than short-term, low-GB options. Their website is also not the most professional, in our opinion.

GlobaleSIM: Standard eSIM Service

GlobaleSIM offers eSIMs for most countries around the world. However, many customer reviews have found their eSIMs unreliable with connectivity issues at the destination.

More Guides About eSIMs and the Best eSIM Providers

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Digital Nomad Tips, Guides & Resources

5x Best eSIM Providers For International Travel In 2024

Category Digital Nomad , Work Online Updated on February 4, 2024

The future of SIM cards is here! And the best part?

It’s going global.

The truth is that staying connected while traveling is usually difficult or expensive. Roaming charges overseas cost a fortune and getting a local SIM card every time you land is hard work.

The good news is that eSIMs are here to stay. They provide you with a convenient and cost-efficient way of staying connected no matter where they are in the world.

But with so many different eSIM providers out there…

How do you know which one to use?

From global coverage to flexible plans – We have detailed the top 5 best eSIM providers for international travel you can use anywhere in the world to ensure you are always connected.

Let’s get into it!

What Is An eSIM?

An eSIM is a digital SIM card that gives you the capabilities of a normal SIM without you needing a physical SIM in your phone.

eSIMs give you more flexibility in managing your phone plans – especially when traveling overseas.

Most modern phones support multiple eSIMs at the same time. That means you can get an eSIM in each country you travel to without any issues.

5x Best eSIM Providers For International Travel

eSIMs are exploding. And there are now a huge number of eSIMs for international travel available all over the world.

Here’s the problem:

Not every eSIM provider is worth it.

There are tons of dodgy and expensive eSIM companies out there. The truth is you don’t have the time to worry about whether your eSIM provider is going to be reliable while you are already dealing with the stress of traveling.

After testing more than 10+ different eSIM companies, there are only 5 eSIM providers that we can confidently recommend.

These are the best eSIM providers for international travel right now:

• Airalo – Best eSIM provider for international travel overall
• Holafly – Best eSIM provider for unlimited data
• Nomad – Best eSIM provider for shorter trips
• Airhub – Best eSIM provider for most flexible plans
• GlobaleSIM – Best eSIM provider for calls and texts

Below is a complete over of each of the best eSIM providers so you can see which one is best for you. We have also provided discount codes that you can use for each provider.

Airalo is the best and biggest eSIM provider on the list and has the best eSIM for international travel overall.

They have data packs for over 190+ countries worldwide and provide excellent coverage.

But what makes Airalo different from many other eSIM providers is that they work with local telco companies all over the world. What does this really mean?

Three important things:

• Airalo cuts out the middleman
• They can offer more data
• The plans generally cost less

It also means that they generally have better local coverage in each country. That’s impressive! At the end of the day, you want your eSIM plan to be reliable and offer good value for money.

Most of the plans on Airalo tick both of those boxes.

Here’s an example of how the eSIMs cost in 10 popular countries:

Make a price comparison with other eSIM providers, and you’ll see how good they are. You get a good amount of GB for an affordable price .

The Thailand eSIM is really interesting. Airalo offers unlimited data-only plans for short periods at a really cost-effective price. Unfortunately, they don’t have any 30-day plans, but the unlimited data is attractive.

Airalo also offers regional and global eSIM plans. These allow you to have access to the internet in groups of countries all over the world.

Here are the six regional plans offered by Airalo at the moment:

The Airlalo regional plans offer value for money – I especially like the Europen one. In fact after testing multiple eSIM companies we found that Airalo had the best eSIM for Europe .

The Asia plan also includes Vietnam in it. So you don’t need to buy the single country plan to get more than 30 days and a good amount of GB.

What about purchasing and installing the eSIM?

Airalo’s user interface is easy to navigate and find the plans you want. The app itself works really well with the number of countries they offer.

Installing an eSIM isn’t difficult, but it might take a minute to get used to the process. But once you have installed one, the second one is a breeze.

And if you have a problem, then support it always on hand to help.

Airalo has a chat widget inside the app and they are pretty responsive. You’ll find lots of supporting documentation for most things as well. The support is part of what makes Airalo such a great company.

If you are just choosing one provider from this list, Airalo is by far the best eSIM provider we can recommend for international travel.

Sign up for Airalo here and use code TTA10 to get 10% off your Airalo eSIM.

You can also check out our complete Airalo review to learn more.

Holafly is a newer eSIM provider that is quickly gaining popularity. They offer a wide range of plans that cover over 1 60+ different countries .

What I love about Holafly is how much data they give you!

They offer tons of unlimited plans , which is perfect for data-hungry travelers who need a ton of mobile data no matter where they are. And these unlimited plans can range from 5 days to 90+ days.

So whether you are doing a long or short trip, you won’t need to worry about data!

Compared to Nomad and Airalo , the plans tend to be more expensive.

But if you require a lot of data, Holalfy is a good option. It’s worth mentioning that you can’t hotspot on most of their unlimited plans. This is a pretty big downside, especially for us as digital nomads!

What about specific countries and costs?

Here’s how much eSIM plans cost on Holafly in countries we are tracking:

While the unlimited eSIM data plans won’t be for everyone, I think Holafly offers pretty good value for money. And from my experience, they tend to have good partners and connect to the best cellular data networks.

That means that you should get the fastest data speeds possible!

But where things take a turn for Holafly, is with their regional plans. They tend to be pretty expensive in most regions.

This is how much Holafly regional plans cost and what’s included:

Overall I think Holafly’s individual country plans are where the value is. You can’t get much better than unlimited if you need a ton of data.

How does the Holafly installation work?

You can purchase your Holafly eSIM through their app or website.

Once you pay for your plan, they email you a QR code. Scan the QR code to start the installation.

The great thing about this is that you can buy it before you leave and install it when you land at the airport! Holafly also has 24/7 support, so if you run into any issues, you can contact them and they’ll help you out.

Get 5% off your Holafly eSIM by clicking here or use discount code “TWOTICKETSANYWHERE” at checkout.

Make sure that you check out our complete Holafy eSIM review to see our experience using Holafly in a number of different countries!

Nomad is another eSIM provider that we use regularly.

If there is a direct competitor to Airalo – it’s Nomad.

Nomad was actually the first company that we tried. They offer a ton of great prepaid plans in over 112+ countries worldwide.

In terms of pricing, Nomad is also one of the better providers. They have worked hard to partner with local telco companies in specific countries to provide you with the best rates possible.

Here is a sample of their plans for the different countries we are tracking:

In most countries, Nomad also offers smaller plans for 7 days if you need them. You can also add on data if you run out and need more.

The biggest downside to Nomad is they rely heavily on Truphone for eSIMs plans in some counties. That means they can be very limited in what they offer. I have noticed that they recently signed deals with AIS in Thailand and Telkomsel in Indonesia.

This has allowed them to offer faster and more competitive data only plans. I am sure they will also continue to do this in other countries.

What about regional plans?

Nomad offers 5 different regional plans:

• South East Asia & Oceania (SEA-Oceania)

This is how much each Nomad regional plan costs and the number of countries included:

The Europe regional plan is actually pretty good value for money and can be as low as $2.60 per GB. This is especially true if you travel faster through Europe and visit multiple countries. The European data plan also covers 35 European countries throughout the EU which is excellent!

European carriers tend to offer fast speeds!

The APAC plan is also good if you travel to multiple countries in the APAC region. It covers up to 16 countries in one really impressive plan. If you are visiting 3+ countries in the APAC region within the 30-day period – this will be a no-brainer.

One of the things I love about Nomad is the excellent user interface of their app.

It’s super intuitive and easy to navigate. You can quickly find the different plans you are looking for and evaluate which one is right for you.

The installation instructions are also the easiest to follow. It takes you through step by step to install your new eSIM and the process is very streamlined.

Nomad eSIM support is also helpful and easily accessible. You can message them by the app and they generally respond pretty quickly. I have contacted them with questions twice and was really happy with the response.

Nomad is one of my favorite eSIM providers and is definitely worth having in your eSIM arsenal, ready for whenever you need it.

Signup for Nomad here.

Airhub has a massive network of over 190+ countries, territories and regions around the world.

They also offer extremely competitive rates and a huge library of data, voice and SMS plans.

Airhub also has some of the best partnerships with local companies, which means they can offer a huge variety of plans.

Here’s what I mean:

eSIMs are (almost) always going to be more expensive than a local physical SIM. But Airhub has worked hard and offers some of the best rates. They also offer monthly subscription plans, so if you are hanging out in a country for multiple months, you could jump onto their subscriptions.

Another massive benefit of Airhub is the number of plans they offer. While the best prepaid eSIM providers usually have approximately 3-5 plans per country – Airhub can offer up to 15 plans for a single country!

That means you get more flexibility about your price, the amount of GB you get and how long the plan lasts. In some countries, Airhub also offers unlimited plans.

This is how much you can expect to pay with Airhub:

Airhub certainly doesn’t have the biggest number of countries available. But they do offer great plans for the countries they are in. This is what makes them one of the best eSIM providers around!

While most plans are pre-paid, they do offer monthly post-paid subscription plans in some countries. This is particularly true if you are heading to the United States.

What’s more?

The Airhub regional plans are also good value for money . And they have done a great job putting together competitive regional plans you’ll want to use.

Here’s what they offer:

The Airhub app is really easy to use. They have done a great job with the user interface which makes it easy to find and buy the eSIM plan you want.

Airhub has quickly become a dominant player in the eSIM industry. They are particularly popular with expats who do a lot of international travel, business travelers and holidaymakers. As digital nomads, we use them from time to time when they have the best deal !

You’ll get reliable network connections, fast speeds and many different plans to choose from!

Make sure that you use special promo code AHTTA3 to get a 3% discount on your Airhub eSIM order at checkout.

Interested in learning more about Airhub ? Check out our complete Airhub eSIM review .

5. GlobaleSIM

Need phone call minutes included in your plan?

GlobaleSIM has you covered. They offer complete customizable plans to suit any budget in over 150+ countries.

In most countries, you can add voice minutes to your plan. That means you will be able to make and receive international calls. When you buy voice minutes, you’ll get a phone number in either-

• United States
• United Kingdom

You can choose from those 3 countries. You then hand that phone number to your friends and family and they will be able to voice call you while you are abroad. Not bad, right?

This is unique to GlobaleSIM. I haven’t seen it offered by any other (decent) eSIM provider. Here’s a sample of how much their data plans cost (most are only available through their regional plans):

You might notice that some of these prices for individual countries are pretty high. This is the downside of GlobaleSIM. A lot of their plans are multi-country plans.

Multi-country plans are similar to the regional plans offered by other eSIM providers. But they aren’t necessarily specific to a geographical region.

If you are traveling to many different countries, GlobaleSIM can be one of the cheaper options. But if you are going to just 1 country, it is likely to cost more.

Here’s how much the GlobaleSIM multi-country plans cost:

Traveling to multiple countries within a couple of weeks?

It’s always worth checking out GlobaleSIM. Just make sure you really do your due diligence to see what countries are included because their “special” and “special +” regional plans are really pricey.

What does the installation look like with GlobaleSIM?

Here’s how it works:

• Choose the country (or region) you are visiting
• Select the number of GB and days you need
• Add voice minutes to your plan (optional)
• Pay and receive the eSIM QR code

Like Holafly, Simply scan the eSIM QR code and away you go. You’ll be connected to the best mobile network in minutes. Easy right?

GlobaleSIM doesn’t have an app, so you must buy the plan on their website. This is probably the only downside because it’s not easy to buy on a mobile device.

That means a little bit of planning ahead is required!

Our Favorite eSIM For International Travel

Our favorite eSIM service provider is Airalo .

They have some of the best coverage with prepaid data plans in more than 190+ countries worldwide. Airalo also has some of the cheapest and most flexible plans out of all the best eSIM providers.

But there is one other reason we confidently recommend Airalo…

Support and service.

Airalo has excellent support to sort you out quickly if you get into trouble. They have a live chat function within the app, so you can contact their customer service team easily.

They’ve also partnered with the best local companies worldwide, so you can expect fast and reliable service no matter which country you are in.

Ready to get started with Airalo?

Download Airalo here and get started now.

Why We Use Multiple eSIM Providers For International Travel

Airalo is an excellent company.

But they aren’t perfect. Airalo has some blind spots in their eSIM card offerings. The good news is that where one eSIM provider lacks, there is usually another to pick up the slack.

Let’s say you need an eSIM Vietnam while you tour the country. Airlalo only offers 1 GB for 7 days. That’s not going to get you far!

At this point, you can jump over to Nomad and pick up one of their 30-day Vietnam eSIM plans for much better value. Problem solved.

Having multiple eSIM providers is the best way to ensure that you always get a good deal and have enough data for whatever country you are in.

I recommend at least having Airalo and Nomad downloaded and ready to use. For most people – that’s all you will need.

If you want unlimited data then it’s worth checking out Holafly as well.

Pros And Cons Of eSIM Plans

There are a ton of benefits that eSIMs offer users. But the truth is there are also some downsides you should be aware of.

Here is a list of the pros and cons of using eSIMs:

• No need for a physical SIM card
• Flexible plans that can be changed easily
• Have multiple eSIMs at once so you can stay connected in different countries without any issues
• Way more cost-efficient compared to roaming charges
• Easy setup and activation process
• Better security and privacy as the data is stored digitally instead of physically
• Potentially increased battery life due to lower power consumption
• Not as cheap as a local SIM card (yet).
• Limited device compatibility
• Not as widely adopted in all countries and regions yet
• Possible technical issues with the activation process

While there might be some downsides, we think eSIMs are the future of SIM cards and the pros far outweigh the cons.

Check If Your Phone Is eSIM Compatible

Is your phone eSIM compatible?

Before purchasing an eSIM for your travels, there are two things you need to check first:

• Is your phone unlocked?
• Does your phone support eSIM technology?

In the U.S. phones bought by major internet and mobile service providers like AT&T and T-Mobile are typically locked initially. To confirm if your device isn’t locked, you should get in touch with your current data service provider.

Are you an iPhone user?

You can check whether your iPhone is unlocked right now:

• Click on  Settings > General > About
• Now scroll down until you see the  “Carrier lock”  section
• If it says  “NO SIM restrictions,”  your phone should be unlocked

If your mobile phone isn’t unlocked, you won’t be able to install an eSIM. So make sure you check first.

Now that’s out of the way – you need to check if your phone is compatible with eSIM technology.

Here’s a brief list of eSIM-compatible phones:

• iPhone XS & XR or later
• Samsung Galaxy S20 or later
• Samsung Galaxy Fold &Z Fold
• Google Pixel 3 & 3XL or later
• Huawei P40, P40 Pro & P50 Pro

Check this complete eSIM compatible phones list to see if your phone supports eSIMs.

Double-check with your phone provider if you still aren’t sure.

Wrapping It Up

eSIM technology is revolutionizing the way people stay connected as they travel.

With the best eSIM providers for your international travel, you can have reliable network connections and access to prepaid data plans in more than 190+ countries worldwide.

You no longer have to pay massive roaming charges or go through the hassle of setting up a local SIM card .

Not sure which eSIM provider to start with?

I recommend checking out Airalo and Nomad  first. This should be good for most countries you will visit. They are also the eSIM providers we use most!

Frequently Asked Questions

What is an eSIM?

An eSIM (embedded SIM) is a digital SIM card that allows you to activate a cellular plan directly from your device without inserting a physical SIM card. It eliminates the need for traditional plastic cards and makes it easier for people to stay connected. eSIMs are also more secure and provide better protection against fraud compared to physical SIM cards.

How do I know if my device is compatible with an eSIM?

The best way to know if your device is compatible with an eSIM is to check with your device manufacturer. Most modern phones from Apple (iPhone XS, iPhone XS Max, iPhone XR and above) and certain Android devices (Samsung Galaxy S20, Google Pixel 3a or later, Huawei P40 Pro and Oppo A12) are eSIM compatible. Additionally, you will need to make sure that your phone is unlocked in order for an eSIM to work. For more detailed information you can check out your device manufacturer’s website.

What are the best eSIM providers?

The best eSIM providers are Airalo and Nomad . They both offer reliable networks and access to prepaid data plans in more than 190+ countries worldwide. Airalo also has a range of plans specifically designed for travelers, so you can get great deals on data no matter where you are in the world. Nomad also has an app that allows you to easily activate and manage your plans from anywhere. Both providers are great options.

Can I use multiple eSIMs at once on one device?

Many phones now support the simultaneous usage of two or more eSIMs so you can easily switch back and forth between different plans and carriers without having to swap out physical SIM cards. Make sure you check with your device manufacturer before using multiple eSIMs on one device.

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A Guide To The Best Travel eSIMs 2024

Whether you’re hopping across European borders or embarking on a short must-needed getaway, the right eSIM makes the biggest difference. Here’s a guide to the best eSIMs for your travel needs.

In an age where seamless connectivity is integral to our travel experiences, traditional SIM cards are being swiftly replaced by eSIMs – the latest innovation in mobile technology. No more fumbling with tiny pieces of plastic or worrying about losing your SIM card; with eSIMs, you can simply activate your plan digitally. Whether you’re exploring Tokyo’s bustling streets, navigating Norway’s scenic landscapes, or simply hopping across European borders, having the right eSIM can greatly enhance your travel adventures.

In this guide, we’ll introduce eSIMs for travelling – exploring what they are, their advantages and disadvantages, how they compare to traditional SIM cards and pocket WiFis, and finally, a curated list of where to get the best travel eSIMs for various regions around the globe.

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What are eSIMs?

Image Credits: Top Digital Agency

eSIMs, short for embedded SIM cards, are a digital alternative to physical SIM cards. Instead of a physical card, eSIMs are built into compatible devices, such as smartphones, tablets, and wearables, allowing users to activate cellular plans without the need for a physical SIM card. With eSIM technology, travellers can switch between different network providers and plans without having to swap out physical SIM cards, making it a convenient solution for frequent travellers.

A Guide To The Best Travel eSIMs 2024: Discover the best travel credit cards in Singapore here

Why use eSIMs?

If you’re new to the concept of eSIMs, it might seem tricky to use. But here’s a clearer breakdown of the pros and potential cons of using a travel eSIM compared to the other data roaming methods of physical SIM cards and Pocket WiFis.

• Convenience: No more dealing with physical SIM cards or visiting stores to purchase local SIM cards. Everything about the eSIM can be done digitally, from buying to activation. There’s no need to fumble with tiny SIM cards or carry around extra pocket wifi.
• Cost-savings : Not only does this save time and effort, but you might also save on delivery or material fees!
• No Physical Limitations: Since eSIMs are embedded into devices, there’s no risk of losing or damaging physical SIM cards while travelling. No worries about switching out and misplacing your SIM for your main plan. 
• Global Coverage: Many eSIM providers offer international roaming plans, providing seamless connectivity in multiple countries without needing multiple SIM cards.
• Limited Device Compatibility: Not all devices support eSIM technology, limiting its accessibility to a certain range of smartphones, tablets, and wearables. Anyone using older models of smartphones might not be able to use eSIMs. Physical SIM cards and pocket WiFis have better device compatibility. 
• Initial Setup Complexity: Activating an eSIM may require a tiny bit more technical knowledge and setup, which could be daunting for less tech-savvy users.

A Guide To The Best Travel eSIMs 2024:Find out which booking platform suits your travel needs

What to take note of:

1️⃣ social media accessibility.

Some eSIMs might not allow access to certain social media apps e.g. TikTok due to the domicile of the mobile number. For example, if the number is based in Hong Kong, you might not be able to access TikTok. This is especially important if you’re a content creator looking to upload on all your social platforms.

A way to check this is by asking the provider where the number is based. If you already have the eSIM on hand, you can also check it via Settings > General > About > check ICCID of the eSIM — a unique 20-digit serial number of every SIM card. Both physical and eSIM, will start with the number 89, followed by the country code of the number. 

A Guide To The Best Travel eSIMs 2024: Check out our 7-day Taiwan itinerary here

2️⃣ Region Coverage

If you’re visiting multiple countries within a region, eSIM providers have packages allowing access to multiple telecoms. However, ensure that the countries you’re visiting are included in the eSIM’s package. For example, if you’re travelling in Europe and are going to buy an eSIM valid for the European region, make sure the eSIM you’re getting can offer coverage to all the countries you’re planning on visiting as a regional eSIM from one provider might not cover the same countries as the respective regional eSIM from another provider.

A Guide To The Best Travel eSIMs 2024: Check out our 48-hour KL itinerary here

3️⃣ Device Compatibility 

As mentioned above, not all devices can support eSIM. Remember to check if your device can install an eSIM before purchasing one!

Pricing for eSIM plans varies depending on factors such as data allowance, validity period, and destination coverage. Generally, prices start from as low as a few dollars for basic data packages, with options available for both short-term and long-term travellers.

A Guide To The Best Travel eSIMs 2024: Here are some flower festivals in Japan to look forward to in 2024

The best travel eSIMs to check out before your next trip:

Image Credits: Medium (Airalo)

Airalo boasts coverage in over 200 countries and territories worldwide , making it one of the most comprehensive eSIM providers on the market. Their extensive network ensures that travellers can stay connected virtually anywhere they go, from major cities to remote destinations. 

Airalo offers a variety of eSIM programs tailored to meet the diverse needs of travellers. These programs include data-only plans, voice and data bundles, and multi-country packages, allowing users to choose the option that best suits their usage requirements and travel itinerary. 

You can also utilise their referral program to earn extra cash while introducing your friends to it. Every successful referral rewards you with USD3 Airmoney for both you and your friend. The reward can be used to offset your next data plan purchase.

Here are Airalo’s prices of eSIMs for popular destinations:

39 Supported countries for Airalo Europe’s regional eSIM : Albania, Andorra, Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Gibraltar, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Montenegro, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Serbia, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Turkey, Ukraine, United Kingdom.

A Guide To The Best Travel eSIMs 2024: Check out this guide on how to use Alipay in China

Image credits: eskimo.travel

Eskimo eSIM offers travellers a convenient and flexible solution for staying connected in over 80 countries worldwide . With their reliable network and user-friendly platform, activating and managing your eSIM is effortless, eliminating the need for physical SIM cards and cumbersome setup processes.

One nifty feature about Eskimo is that it allows users to transfer data to any other Eskimo customer , offering a unique solution to optimise data usage. Imagine a couple who occasionally travel separately sharing a single data plan this way, or if you’re travelling together and one of you is more aggressive with Instagramming, the other one can transfer excess data over. This not only fosters cost-effectiveness but also helps minimise wastage. Data can be transferred in 500MB increments , and all transfers are immediate. However, it’s essential to note that only paid data can be transferred, excluding data earned from referrals.

Since Eskimo has an app, you can buy your eSIM plan and any additional add-ons, and then follow the instructions to activate your eSIM in-app.

Price list for Eskimo Travel eSIMs for popular destinations:

36 Countries covered under Eskimo Europe eSIM : Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Faroe Islands, Finland, France, Georgia, Germany, Greece, Guernsey, Hungary, Ireland, Isle of Man, Italy, Jersey, Latvia, Luxembourg, Moldova, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Romania, Russia, Slovakia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Turkey, Ukraine, United Kingdom.

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Image credits: Holafly

The key feature of Holafly lies in its offering of unlimited data for over 197 destinations , for up to 90 days . Yes, unlimited! However, with claims of unlimited data, there’s usually a caveat where after a threshold is passed e.g. after using 5GB with 4G speed, data speed slows down tremendously. Holafly doesn’t specify how much and when its unlimited data speed will throttle.

Price list for Holafly Travel eSIMs for popular destinations:

Holafly explicitly states that you will enjoy good coverage and speed in U.S. cities such as Hawaii, New York, Miami, Las Vegas, Los Angeles, San Francisco, etc. However, in mountainous or desert areas such as Page or the Grand Canyon, you may experience unstable coverage.

Holafly’s Europe eSIM covers 32 countries: Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Cyprus, Croatia, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Ireland, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Norway, Netherlands, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, United Kingdom, Czech Republic, Romania, Sweden, Switzerland, and Ukraine.

A Guide To The Best Travel eSIMs 2024: Check out the best time to visit Japan with this month-by-month guide

Image Credits: alosim.com

aloSIM is a Canada-based tech company that offers prepaid eSIMs for travellers in over 170 countries . You can purchase their eSIMs either through their website or their app. aloSIM’s plans might be more suited for those with low-internet usage needs .

Here are some prices for aloSIM ’s eSIM data plans:

34 countries covered under aloSIM Europe regional eSIM : Austria, Belgium, Croatia, Czech Republic, Estonia, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Jersey, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Montenegro, Netherlands, Serbia, Spain, Switzerland, United Kingdom (UK), Slovakia, Slovenia, Bulgaria, Cyprus, Liechtenstein, Portugal, Romania, Turkey, Denmark, Finland, Sweden

A Guide To The Best Travel eSIMs 2024: Want to work remotely? Check this guide to which countries are offering digital nomad visas

Image Credits: Two Tickets Anywhere

Nomad offers prepaid data plans for over 170 countries , at local rates for tourists who want to stay connected. Nomad offers 2 types of plans : high-speed data for a chosen quantity of GB per day, or total GB for a set number of days.

Nomad offers multiple European regional eSIMs with different numbers of countries covered.

The Nomad Europe eSIM featured above covers 30 countries : Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, United Kingdom

A Guide To The Best Travel eSIMs 2024:

Image Credits: ByteSIM

ByteSIM is an eSIM service designed specifically for travellers seeking seamless connectivity while abroad. ByteSIM offers eSIMs with global data packages in 200+ countries , allowing you to stay connected anywhere, anytime. 

Their plans are mainly 3 types : high-speed data for a chosen quantity of GB per day, Total GB for a set number of days, and Unlimited data. They try to provide 24/7 Support where you can get help via their email or WhatsApp whenever you need assistance. Compared to the other big brands, ByteSIM prices are pretty competitive especially when they have deals.

Notice from ByteSim: Unlimited Data is a unique product offering, but please be aware that the carrier may implement a Fair Usage Policy. 

ByteSIM offers multiple European regional eSIMs with different numbers of countries covered.

The eSIM featured above covers 43 countries : Albania, Egypt, Ireland, Estonia, Austria, Bulgaria, Belgium, Iceland, Poland, Denmark, Germany, France, Finland, Kazakhstan, Netherlands, Czech Republic, Croatia, Latvia, Lithuania, Liechtenstein, Luxembourg, Romania, Isle of Man,  Malta, Macedonia, Norway, Portugal, Sweden, Switzerland, Serbia, Cyprus, Slovakia, Slovenia, Turkey, Ukraine, Uzbekistan, Spain, Greece, Hungary,  Italy, U.K., Jersey, Gibraltar.

A Guide To The Best Travel eSIMs 2024: Discover the best multi-currency cards in Singapore here

Image credits: Ubigi eSIM

Ubigi is a global cellular connectivity and eSIM service in over 200+ destinations with a large range of affordable prepaid data plans for smartphones, tablets, laptops, and connected cars.

Ubigi Europe eSIM plan covers these 30 countries : Andorra, Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Gibraltar, Greece, Hungary, Ireland, Italy (including Vatican), Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Ukraine, United Kingdom

A Guide To The Best Travel eSIMs 2024: Discover the best budget destination to travel to in 2024 here

8. Maya Mobile

Image credits: A Broken Backpack

Maya Mobile is another prominent eSIM provider that offers coverage plans in over 200+ countries . They are a US-based mobile data provider using eSIM technology to deliver highly secure, on-demand travel SIM cards to tourists and travellers. According to Maya Mobile, their eSIMs are VPN-ready, end-to-end encrypted, and overall safe and secure. 

You might struggle to find eSIMS for less popular destinations on e-commerce platforms, but bigger brands like Maya Mobile should have such options – whether you’re going to the ever-popular Japan or slightly more understated Costa Rica.

30-36 Countries covered by Maya Mobile’s Europe eSIM : Andorra, Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Faroe Islands, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, San Marino, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, UK, Ukraine

A Guide To The Best Travel eSIMs 2024: Discover the top 10 travel destinations Singaporeans are looking to travel to in 2024

Image credits: Qoo10

WeFly is a notably accessible and affordable SIM card and eSIM provider available on Shopee . 

For travellers planning swift getaways to neighbouring destinations like Malaysia, Thailand, or Indonesia, WeFly has packages starting from just S$2.49. Moreover, they offer data plans covering multiple countries within Southeast Asia, starting from S$3.74, sparing travellers the inconvenience of procuring multiple eSIMs.

WeFly usually emails details of your eSIM within 24 hours.

Prices from WeFly Shopee store

A Guide To The Best Travel eSIMs 2024: Here are some majestic mountains you need to see in this lifetime

10. NPN Travel

Image Credits: blue star mobile

NPN Travel is a Hong Kong-based company, offering affordable eSIMs on Shopee and Lazada . It covers many popular destinations like Malaysia, Thailand, Vietnam, Japan, Korea, Taiwan, China, Hong Kong & Macau, Indonesia, Philippines, Australia, UAE, New Zealand, USA, and UK. They also offer regional eSIMs for Europe, and the region of China, Hong Kong & Macau. 

NPN offers a wide variety of plans, its usual offerings are 500MB per day to 3GB per day and certain regions allow infinite data or data plans with calls. NPN also offers 3 tiers of plans : Ultimate, Ultra and Pro. These plans mostly differ in their data speed throttling.

Image Source: NPN Travel Shopee

When your eSIM is ordered, NPN sends you an email for the eSIM access within 15 minutes. The company also has their Shopee Chat and WhatsApp available for any enquiries.

Price list for NPN Travel eSims for top destinations:

Prices from NPN Travel Shopee Store.

NPN’s eSIM plans covering Europe consists of: Albania, Austria, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Gibraltar, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Turkey, United Kingdom. Please do your due diligence to check the product listing for the places you require.

A Guide To The Best Travel eSIMs 2024: Here are the most unique themed hotels in the world

Are You On eSIMs Yet?

Image Credits: Airalo

After discovering eSIMs, I am a convert! Getting data abroad has been much easier because I no longer have to worry about losing my main SIM card, or running out of data. Moreover, there’s no need for queuing or installation, the convenience is unparalleled. If you haven’t tried eSIMs yet, give it a go on your next trip!

As Singapore’s favourite multi-currency wallet, we aim to get those pesky fees out of the way and help you save on your travels. With the best foreign exchange rates, no longer will you have to deal with those long queues at money changers! So if you’re looking for a go-to travel card, sign up for your complimentary YouTrip card today with < YTBLOG5 > and get FREE S$5 in your account! Then, head over to our YouTrip Perks page for exclusive offers and promotions — we promise you won’t regret it. For more great tips and articles like this, join our Telegram (@YouTripSG) and subscribe to our free weekly newsletter here or down below.  

And while you’re at it, why not join the conversation with thousands of #YouTroopers in our very own Community Telegram Group @YouTripSquad ? Get tips and tricks to everything YouTrip including exclusive invites to exciting events and experiences, & be part of the #YouTripSquad! 💜

Stay safe and happy travels!

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at Don Quijote Japan!

Up to 10% tax free + 5% additional discount

• Valid till 01 Oct 2024
• Flash this at the payment counter & pay with YouTrip during checkout in store
• Enjoy additional 5% discount with min 10,000 yen (JPY) spent excluding tax
• We want to help you get your discount! 1. Ensure that you follow through with your purchase once you click on “Redeem Deal” on YouTrip Perks. 2. If you jump out of the check-out process (even if to check on a message or just happen to close your browser), click through YouTrip Perks again to re-purchase to get your discount.
• Valid until 01 October 2024.
• [Japanese temporary returnees] who purchased tax-free goods are eligible for the coupon.
• Foreign diplomat(s) are not eligible for tax exemption.
• Eligible Stores: Don Quijote, APITA, and PIAGO Stores in Japan (Excluding some stores)
• Tap the coupon banner below to go to the barcode screen.
• Present the coupon screen to the cashier staff at the time of payment.
• Last, tap the “Use Coupon” button.
• This coupon is valid only once for tax-free transactions of 10,000 yen (excluding tax) or more.
• Please note that the following items are not included & eligible for the discount: Alcohol, cigarettes, POSA cards, game consoles, products costing more than 100,000 yen (excluding tax), and products with price restrictions, etc.
• Please be sure to present the coupon at the time of payment.
• Please note that the discount cannot be applied if the coupon is presented after payment has been completed.
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• This coupon cannot be used with other discounts, services, or majica cards.
• Any outstanding balance after deducting the face value of the coupon must be paid in full using YouTrip Card.
• The offer is subject to terms and conditions of Don Quijote. In case of dispute, the decision of Don Quijote and YouTrip shall be final.

Up to 9% cashback at Charles & Keith!

9% cashback (New Charles & Keith users)

• Valid till 31 December 2023
• Pay with YouTrip during checkout
• Receive cashback within 45 days after checkout

3% cashback (Existing Charles & Keith users)

• Valid from 31 December 2023
• We want to help you get your cashback! 1. Ensure that you follow through with your purchase once you click on “Redeem Deal” on YouTrip Perks. 2. If you jump out of the check-out process (even if to check on a message or just happen to close your browser), click through YouTrip Perks again to re-purchase to get your cashback.
• Only purchases made through the Charles & Keith affiliate link provided by YouTrip will be eligible for cashback.
• Return to YouTrip Perks and clickthrough to Charles & Keith whenever you are making a new transaction.
• Purchase must be made within the same window.
• Cookies must be enabled on your browser for cashback to be tracked.
• Cashback will not be awarded for cancelled or refunded orders.
• Cashback will be awarded after 45 days from the date of purchase.
• Cashback rate will be subjected to the merchant’s discretion and the eligibility of selected products.
• Cashback rate for Charles & Keith varies for each item and the exact cashback rates would only be known when the item is successfully tracked.
• Purchases made via the Charles & Keith mobile app will not be eligible for cashback.

8% off at SGPomades!

$8 off min S$50 spend

• Valid till 31 December 2021
• Pay with YouTrip and apply code 'YOUTRIP8' during checkout
• Enjoy 8% off min S$50 spend upon checkout
• Promo code only applicable when using your YouTrip Mastercard upon checkout.
• 1 redemption per customer only
• Promo codes are not exchangeable for cash.
• Valid only for original price items.
• Not stackable with existing promotions.
• Exclusions Apply.

3% cashback at Dyson!

3% cashback

• Only purchases made through the Dyson affiliate link provided by YouTrip will be eligible for cashback.
• Return to YouTrip Perks and clickthrough to Dyson whenever you are making a new transaction.
• Dyson accessories will not be eligible for cashback.

4% cashback at UNIQLO!

4% cashback

• Only purchases made through the UNIQLO affiliate link provided by YouTrip will be eligible for cashback.
• Return to YouTrip Perks and clickthrough to UNIQLO whenever you are making a new transaction.

Up to 11% cashback at Trip.com!

Up to 11% cashback

• Receive cashback 45 days after checkout
• Only purchases made through the Trip.com affiliate link provided by YouTrip will be eligible for cashback.
• Cashback up to 11% for Hotels and 3% for Flights from 2 June 2024 to 7 June 2024, after which cashback will revert back to 6% (Hotels) & 2% (Flights)
• Return to YouTrip Perks and clickthrough to Trip.com whenever you are making a new transaction.
• Cashback rate will be subjected to the merchant’s discretion and the eligibility of selected activities.
• Cashback rate for Trip.com varies for each item and the exact cashback rates would only be known when the item is successfully tracked.
• Please refer to the table below for full cashback rates.

25% off at HOUZE!

25% off min $60 spend

• Pay with YouTrip and apply code 'YOUTRIP25' during checkout
• Enjoy 25% off min $60 spend upon checkout
• Only 1 promo code may be used at a time.

25% off at Table Matters!

Up to $260 cashback and KrisShop e-Vouchers at Singapore Airlines!

$20 cashback with min $500 spend

• Valid till 26 November 2021
• Pay using YouTrip at checkout
• Register through YouTrip's campaign registration form
• Enjoy up to 4x cashback rewards per booking
• Receive cashback by 31 December 2021
• Limited to the first 1,000 redemptions
• Only bookings made via the SIA website, Mobile App or selected list of SIA appointed travel agents within the campaign period and redemption limit will be eligible for cashback.
• For full T&Cs, please visit https://www.you.co/sg/youtrip-singapore-airlines-cashback-tnc/

$30 KrisShop e-Voucher with min $500 spend

• Enjoy up to 6x KrisShop e-Vouchers per booking
• Limited to the first 4,000 redemptions
• Only bookings made via the SIA website, Mobile App or selected list of SIA appointed travel agents within the campaign period and redemption limit will be eligible for KrisShop e-Voucher rewards
• Offer is strictly applicable to flights to and from the following destinations only: Frankfurt, Munich, Amsterdam, Barcelona, Copenhagen, London, Los Angeles, Milan, New York, PAris, Rome, San Francisco, Seattle or Vancouver
• For full T&Cs, please visit https://www.you.co/sg/youtrip-singapore-airlines-krisshop-tnc/

Up to 10% off at Expedia!

Up to 10% off

• Valid till 30 Jun 2023
• Pay with YouTrip and apply code 'MASTER10' during checkout
• Enjoy 10% off (Capped at S$70) upon checkout
• Booking period Now till 30 Jun 2023
• Stay period: Now till 31 September 2023
• Participating “Expedia Rate” hotels refer to hotels labelled “Expedia Rate” and are not on the exclusion list available at the booking page.
• Up to 10% discount coupon on hotel bookings at thousands of participating properties globally. 10% savings with promo code MASTER10 – Singapore: Discount value capped at SGD70 per transaction
• No minimum stay requirement.
• Coupon only applies to first room in the booking.

Up to 6% cashback at JD Sports!

6% cashback (Regular-priced items)

2% cashback (Sale Items)

• Only purchases made through the JD Sports affiliate link provided by YouTrip will be eligible for cashback.
• Return to YouTrip Perks and clickthrough to JD Sports whenever you are making a new transaction.
• Cashback rate for JD Sports varies for each item and the exact cashback rates would only be known when the item is successfully tracked.

Up to 5% cashback at ASOS

Up to 5% cashback (New ASOS users)

3% cashback (Existing ASOS users purchases via Web)

2% cashback (Existing ASOS users purchases via App)

• Only purchases made through the ASOS affiliate link provided by YouTrip will be eligible for cashback.
• Return to YouTrip Perks and clickthrough to ASOS whenever you are making a new transaction.

10% off at SweatSpot!

10% off all packages

• Valid till 12 April 2022
• Pay with YouTrip and apply code 'YOUTRIP' upon checkout
• Enjoy 10% off upon checkout

10% cashback at Taobao!

10% cashback with min S$50 spend

• Valid till 31 January 2022
• Register and spend a minimum of $50 and pay with YouTrip during checkout
• Register for promotion here
• For first 750 users only
• 10% cashback with minimum spend of $50.
• Limited to the first 750 users on a first come, first served basis. 
• Payment must be charged to a YouTrip Mastercard. 
• The required minimum spend must be in a single transaction before any other promo codes, vouchers or coupons. Minimum spend excludes all taxes and fees, including but not limited to shipping and handling, unless otherwise stated.
• All purchases made in conjunction with the Offer are subject to prevailing taxes and service charges where applicable. 
• YouTrip makes no warranty or representation as to the quality, merchantability or fitness for purpose of any goods or services purchased from the merchant. Any dispute about the same must be resolved directly with the merchant. 
• YouTrip shall not be responsible for any loss, injury, claim, damage or expense arising from the redemption of the Offer or the use of the goods and services purchased from a merchant.
• YouTrip is not an agent of Taobao or any merchant, or vice versa.
• All information is correct at time of print. YouTrip will not be responsible for any changes which occur after print.
• YouTrip reserves the right to vary the terms and conditions of the Offer or withdraw or discontinue the Offer by providing written notice to the other party at least 7 days in advance and indemnify the direct economic loss of the other party caused by YouTrip’s behavior under the clause.

Up to 10% cashback at Shopee!

Up to 10% cashback (New Shopee users)

3% cashback (Existing Shopee users)

• All cashback will be capped at S$5.00
• Only purchases made through the Shopee affiliate link provided by YouTrip will be eligible for cashback.
• Return to YouTrip Perks and clickthrough to Shopee whenever you are making a new transaction.
• Cashback rate for Shopee varies for each item and the exact cashback rates would only be known when the item is successfully tracked.
• Please refer to the table below for product cashback rates

Up to 7% cashback at Sephora!

7% cashback (New Sephora users)

2.5% cashback (Existing Sephora users)

• Only purchases made through the Sephora affiliate link provided by YouTrip will be eligible for cashback.
• Return to YouTrip Perks and clickthrough to Sephora whenever you are making a new transaction.

$20 cashback at Circles.Life!

$20 cashback (For new Circles.Life customers)

• Only purchases made through the Circles.Life affiliate link provided by YouTrip will be eligible for cashback.
• Return to YouTrip Perks and clickthrough to Circles.Life whenever you are making a new transaction.
• Not applicable for purchases made via the Circles.Life mobile application

Up to 12% cashback at AirAsia Food

12% cashback (New AirAsia Food Customers)

• Valid till 31 December 2022

6% cashback (Existing AirAsia Food Customers)

• Only purchases made through the AirAsia Food affiliate link provided by YouTrip will be eligible for cashback.
• Return to YouTrip Perks and clickthrough to AirAsia Food whenever you are making a new transaction.

at Trip.com!

• Valid till 30 September 2025
• Receive cashback within 60 days after completion of activity/stay/flight
• Cashback will be awarded after 60 days from the completion of activity/stay/flight.
• Cashback will be calculated based on the final online booking checkout price, excluding taxes, fees, service charges, children/infant tickets, insurance and any payments to be made at the hotel.
• Promo or voucher codes that are not recognised by YouTrip will be ineligible for Trip.com cashback.
• Cashback does not include Trip coins, store credits or voucher/coupon codes.

3% cashback at 24S!

• Only purchases made through the 24S affiliate link provided by YouTrip will be eligible for cashback.
• Return to YouTrip Perks and clickthrough to 24S whenever you are making a new transaction.
• Celine, Louis Vuitton and Dior products are not eligible for cashback.

10% cashback (New Lazada users)

• Valid till 31 December 2024

3% cashback (Existing Lazada users)

• Pay with YouTrip on Lazada (LazMall excluded) during checkout
• Only purchases made through the Lazada affiliate link provided by YouTrip will be eligible for cashback.
• Return to YouTrip Perks and clickthrough to Lazada whenever you are making a new transaction.
• Cashback rate for Lazada varies for each item and the exact cashback rates would only be known when the item is successfully tracked.
• Products not eligible for cashback: Sports shoes and clothing, Electronics Accessories, Groceries.
• Cashback capped at $10

15% off at iShopChangi

15% off with no min. spend (For traveller purchases only)

• Pay with YouTrip and apply code 'YOUTRIP15' during checkout
• Enjoy 15% off with no min. spend
• Valid for traveller purchases only.
• Payment must be made with YOUTRIP Mastercard.
• Only one Promo Code may be used at a time.
• Promotion is valid until 31 December 2023.
• Promotion is not exchangeable for cash, prizes, products or other vouchers.
• Promotion is not valid in conjunction with privilege holder discounts.
• Chanel and Dior are excluded from this promotion.
• The Shilla Duty Free reserves the right to amend or withdraw any terms & conditions without any prior notice.

S$15 off at The Shilla!

S$15 off min S$150 spend in store

• Flash this at the counter and pay with YouTrip during checkout in store
• Enjoy S$15 off min S$150 nett spend
• Valid until 31 December 2022.
• Limited to one redemption per customer.
• Any outstanding balance after deducting the face value of the voucher must be paid in full using YouTrip Card
• The promotion must be fully utilised and any unutilised amount will be forfeited.
• Not exchangeable for cash, prizes, products or other vouchers.
• Not valid in conjunction with privilege holder discounts.

5% cashback at Chemist Warehouse!

5% cashback

• Only purchases made through the Chemist Warehouse affiliate link provided by YouTrip will be eligible for cashback.
• Return to YouTrip Perks and clickthrough to Chemist Warehouse whenever you are making a new transaction.

Up to 10% off at Qatar Airways!

Up to 10% off 

• Click through to Qatar via YouTrip Perks, apply code 'YTQR23' & Pay with YouTrip during checkout
• Enjoy up to 10% off upon checkout
• Sales period: 8 May 2023 – 31 December 2023
• Travel period: 8 May 2023 – 31 March 2024
• Booking must be made using promo code YTQR23 to avail of the discount
• Full payment must be made with a YouTrip Card
• Save 10% on Business Class Comfort fares
• Save 10% on Economy Class Convenience fares
• Save 7% on Economy Class and Business Class Classic fares
• Valid only on Qatar Airways flights from Singapore
• Valid to the following destinations: Abu Dhabi, Almaty, Amsterdam, Ankara, Athens, Atlanta, Baku, Barcelona, Belgrade, Berlin, Boston, Brussels, Bucharest, Budapest, Cape Town, Casablanca, Chennai, Chicago, Copenhagen, Dallas, Dar Es Salaam, Doha, Dubai, Dublin, Durban, Edinburgh, Frankfurt, Geneva, Harare, Helsinki, Houston, Islamabad, Johannesburg, Kilimanjaro, Larnaca, London, Los Angeles, Lusaka, Luxor, Madrid, Malabo, Manchester, Medina, Miami, Milan, Mombasa, Montreal, Moscow, Mumbai, Munich, Nairobi, New York City, Oslo, Paris, Philadelphia, Pisa, Prague, Rome, San Francisco, Sao Paulo, Seattle, Seychelles, Sharjah, Sofia, St Petersburg, Stockholm, Tbilisi, Venice, Vienna, Warsaw, Washington, Windhoek, Yerevan, Zagreb, Zanzibar, Zurich
• All-in fares include all taxes, fees, and surcharges which are subject to currency fluctuation
• Blackout dates and surcharges may apply. Please refer to the fare rules for details at the time of booking.
• Blackout Periods: 18 Nov – 20 Dec 2022 (Doha and Middle Eastern Countries), 1 Jan – 10 Jan 2023 (All destinations)
• Peak period surcharges may apply
• Fares are subject to change without prior notice
• Discount applies to return base fare only of selected fare classes
• Discount does not apply to taxes and all other surcharges
• Seats are limited and are subject to availability of the relevant booking class
• Minimum and maximum stay as well as advance purchase rules apply dependent on the booking class
• Please refer to the fare rules at the time of booking for changes, cancellations and no-show conditions
• Any change or cancellation less than 3 hours prior to the stated time of departure will be considered as no-show
• For travel involving multiple booking classes, the most restrictive fare rules apply to the entire itinerary
• Standard child/infant discount apply
• Please note that market-specific promotional fares may be available for selected dates and destinations, and may not be eligible for the discounts under this offer. All available options, together with the applicable terms & conditions for each fare will be displayed at time of booking for you to make your selection
• Qatar Airway’s terms and conditions will also apply to your booking, please review these at the time of booking
• Other terms and conditions apply. Please review at the time of booking

2.1% cashback at Watsons!

2.1% cashback

• Only purchases made through the Watsons affiliate link provided by YouTrip will be eligible for cashback.
• Return to YouTrip Perks and clickthrough to Watsons whenever you are making a new transaction.
• Cashback rate for Watsons varies for each item and the exact cashback rates would only be known when the item is successfully tracked.
• Cashback will be calculated based on the final checkout price, excluding taxes, delivery fees, any additional fees, service charges.

10% cashback at Puma!

10% cashback

• Valid till 30 Dec 2023
• Only purchases made through the Puma affiliate link provided by YouTrip will be eligible for cashback.
• Return to YouTrip Perks and clickthrough to Puma whenever you are making a new transaction.

5% cashback at AirAsia Grocer!

• Only purchases made through the AirAsia affiliate link provided by YouTrip will be eligible for cashback.
• Return to YouTrip Perks and clickthrough to AirAsia whenever you are making a new transaction.

8% cashback at On The List!

8% cashback

• Only purchases made through the On The List affiliate link provided by YouTrip will be eligible for cashback.
• Return to YouTrip Perks and clickthrough to On The List whenever you are making a new transaction.
• Purchases made via the On The List mobile site or app are not eligible for cashback.

Up to $12 off at FairPrice Online!

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Travel Europe on a Budget

The Savvy Backpacker

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Best esim for europe travel | everything you need to know about european prepaid esim data plans.

A guide to everything you need to know about using eSIM data plans while traveling through Europe.

phones and technology

When most people want high-speed mobile data for their phone while traveling to Europe they’ve traditionally bought a physical SIM card. However, many newer phones have an embedded electronic SIM (i.e. eSIM) that allows you to connect to European mobile carriers without needing to install a physical SIM card. These new eSIM data plans offer travelers a ton of convenience but there are a few quirks as well. That’s why in this article I’m going to cover everything you need to know about eSIM data plans in Europe—including tips for finding the best eSIM for Europe travel.

What You’ll See In This eSIM Guide

• Do I Even Need Mobile Data In Europe?
• Can I Just Use My Mobile Plan’s Internation Data Plan?
• What Is an eSIM?

The Benefits of eSIM Mobile Data Plans

What iphones use esim cards, what android phones use esim cards, the best esim data plans for europe, how to activate an esim data plan, how much mobile data do you need when traveling europe, buying an esim in europe, more tips for using an esim data plan in europe, do you need mobile data in europe.

Honestly, yes, you need mobile data on your phone when traveling to Europe. Sure, you can sometimes find free wifi hotspots but that’s way more difficult than you’d think (I know from experience).

And so much of modern European life requires high-speed mobile data—train tickets are digital, Google Maps needs reliable data, sporting event tickets are digital, restaurant menus are accessed via QR codes, Uber/rideshare apps require data, some restaurants now want you to pay via your phone, accessing real-time public transportation info relies on mobile data, and the list goes on.

Can You Use Your Mobile Provider’s International Data Plan?

US/Canadian/Australian domestic mobile providers often offer an international data plan (either free or for an extra charge) but they all come with a few major drawbacks:

• They’re expensive: Expect to pay $10-$20/day
• Slow speeds : You’re often downgraded to 2G/3G speeds so even opening basic webpages could take forever to load (if it even loads). Many apps won’t function. Google Maps won’t work. Forget about social media.
• Data caps: These plans might start you off with standard 4G/LTE speeds but once you hit 1-2GB of data you’ll be downgraded to nearly-unusable 3G/2G speeds.
• Auto Enrollment: Some plans automatically enroll you in their international data plan the moment your phone tries to access data—which is just about every phone since smartphone apps are constantly running in the background.

For example, the  AT&T International Day Pass  costs $10/day. They also have their AT&T Passport plan, a monthly plan that’s either $70/month for 2 GB of data or $140/month for 6 GB. Then they charge an insane overage of $30 per GB.  Verizon  also has a $10/day pass but they knock you down to 3G speeds after 2GB each day.

And many  T-Mobile  customers get free “unlimited” international data but you’re only guaranteed 2g data speeds after you hit a total usage of 5GB of data… which will struggle to load Google Maps or even email. T-Mobile gives you the option to pay more to get 5GB at better speeds but then you’ll be charged a premium.

These “international data plans” are 5X as expensive as buying a prepaid eSIM data plan from a third-party provider—for example, eSIM data plans from  Orange  or  Holafly  will cost you around $2-$4/day.

So do yourself a favor and buy a European mobile data plan.

What Is An eSIM?

In short, an eSIM is an embedded/digital version of the traditional physical SIM card. So instead of installing a physical SIM card to change your mobile provider, you simply connect to a new mobile data service provider using an app.

This is great for international travel because you no longer have to hunt down a new SIM card when you change countries. You simply activate the eSIM service and you’re online in seconds.

Many new phones are dual SIM so you can still use your physical domestic SIM card while also using the eSIM so you can switch back and forth between your mobile data providers.

Some phones are also moving to eSIM only—the USA versions of the iPhone 14 and iPhone 15 (and future generations) no longer feature a SIM card slot but do support dual eSIM.

Below are some of the many benefits of using an eSIM data plan while traveling.

No Searching For SIM Cards

The biggest benefit of an eSIM is not having to track down a physical SIM card. All you have to do is install the mobile provider’s app to activate the eSIM data service. This means you can order your eSIM, and download the app before you leave. and then activate the service when you arrive at your destination.

Instant Delivery (No Shipping Fees)

Since eSIM cards are all digital you don’t have to pay shipping fees if you want to pre-purchase a European data plan before arriving in Europe.

For example, you can buy a plan from SimOptions or Holafly and they’ll email you a QR code or link to activate the service.

Dual eSIMs Allow You To Use Two Data Plans At Once

Another big benefit to using an eSIM is that you can seamlessly switch between your domestic plan (via the physical SIM) and the travel plan (via your eSIM). In fact, some phones let you have up to 5 eSIM data plans on a single phone—which is overkill for most people but it’s still an option.

Another huge benefit to having dual SIM cards is that many services will send you texts for things like two-factor identification or your bank might text you with fraud alerts and these won’t come through if you don’t have your home plan’s physical SIM card installed.

No Need to Remove Your Current SIM Card

Removing the physical SIM card is a hassle. First, you need the little tool to pop the SIM out of the phone (which is easy to lose). Then you also have to remove your phone case. You also have to keep track of your original SIM card so you don’t lose or damage it (you’ll need to reinstall it to get your service back).

Easier To Add Credit To Your Account

All eSIM data plans require you to download the service provider’s app to activate the service and most allow you to easily add credit to your account via the app.

Not all iPhones have built-in eSIM compatibility but essentially all iPhones made since 2019 should be eSIM compatible—i.e. they’re Dual SIM so they have both a physical SIM and an eSIM.

UPDATE: All iPhone 14 (and newer) sold in the UNITED STATES are eSIM-only so there isn’t a physical SIM Card slot anymore. However, all iPhones sold outside the US have dual SIM with physical SIM and eSIM.

eSIM Compatible Phones:

• (The base iPhone X and anything older is not eSIM compatible)
• iPhone 11, 11 Pro, and 11 Pro Max
• iPhone 12, 12 Pro, 12 Pro Max, 12 Mini & iPhone SE 2020
• iPhone 13, 13 Pro, 13 Mini
• iPhone 14 Pro, iPhone 14 Pro Max, iPhone 14, iPhone 14 Plus, iPhone SE, etc.
• iPhone 15 Pro, iPhone 15 Pro Max, iPhone 15, and iPhone 15 Plus

Again, just about every Android sold since 2020 is eSIM compatible.

• Samsung Galaxy Fold & Galaxy Fold 2 / Galaxy Z Flip & Z Flip 5G
• Samsung Galaxy S20, S20+, S20 Ultra / Galaxy Note 20
• Samsung Galaxy S21 5G, S21+ 5G, S21 Ultra 5G
• Google Pixel 3, Pixel 3XL, Pixel 4, Pixel 4XL, Pixel 4a (4G), Pixel 5 (5G), Pixel 6, Pixel 7
• Huawei P40 and P40 Pro & Mate 40 Pro

A great thing about traveling to Europe is that the EU outlawed mobile data roaming fees so any EU data plan will work anywhere within the UE—i.e. you can buy a French eSIM and use it in Italy, Germany, Poland, etc.

That said, I recommend sticking with the major European carriers since they’ll have the most comprehensive networks and the fastest mobile data speeds.

NOTE: The UK and Switzerland aren’t in the EU so not all plans will work there (but many still do)—check each plan to see if they cover these countries.

Orange Holiday Europe eSIM 50GB: $59.90

• Price:  $59.90 (Check  SimOptions  for details)
• Data:  50GB
• Service Speed:  4G/LTE
• Calls:  Unlimited within Europe and 120 min outside of Europe.
• Texts/SMS:  Unlimited within Europe and 1000 outside of Europe.
• Credit validity:  28 day
• Data Tethering:  Allowed
• Usable on any device (phones, tablets, hotspots…)
• This eSIM plan comes with a French phone number that can still be used anywhere in Europe
• Service works everywhere in the EU

Need tons of data? Consider the newly released  Orange Holiday Europe 50GB eSIM data plan which is a beefed-up version of the Orange Holiday Europe eSIM. It has 50GB of data and it’s valid for 28 days (compared to 14 days with the Orange Holiday Europe plan). This eSIM also comes with many features you don’t find with other plans—including international voice calling and texts (it gives you an actual French phone number that works anywhere in Europe).

The Orange Holiday Europe eSIM plan also allows you to use your phone as a mobile hotspot so you can put that extra data allowance to good use. Orange is also one of the largest mobile companies in Europe so you’ll always get great coverage and high data speeds.

Holafly Europe eSIM with Unlimited Data: Starting at $19.00

Holafly is a new Europe-based eSIM provider that I 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 Europe-wide data plans.

Unlike other mobile data companies, Holafly gives you unlimited data and a local phone number with 60 minutes of credit for making/receiving calls from European numbers (with a few exceptions). I also like how Holafly’s plans come in durations from 5 to 90 days—so you don’t have to over/underbuy for your particular trip.

• 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
• Call Coverage:  60 minutes of credit to make calls from all of Europe—except Iceland, Norway, United Kingdom, Switzerland, Ukraine, and Turkey. Comes with an Austrian phone number.
• Texts/SMS: None
• Tethering: No

Bouygues My European eSIM: $44.90

Bouygues is a major French telecommunications company and they’ve recently released their own prepaid eSIM data plan to compete with the popular Orange Holiday Europe eSIM plan. I used a prepaid Bouygues SIM card on a previous trip to Europe so I’m glad they’re finally offering an eSIM.

There’s a lot to like about the Bouygues My European eSIM plan —especially since it comes standard with 30GB of data and unlimited calls within Europe. I also like how this Bouygues eSIM plan is valid for 30 days so it’s a great option for longer trips.

• Price: $44.90 (Check SimOptions for details)
• Data Tethering: Allowed
• Service Speed: 4G/LTE
• Calls: Unlimited within Europe
• Credit validity: 30 day
• Phone Number: This eSIM card comes with a French phone number
• Coverage : Anywhere within the European Union (except Switzerland)

Check out my Bouygues European eSIM review for more information about this plan.

Orange Holiday Europe eSIM 30GB: $49.90

• Price: $49.90 (Check SimOptions for details)
• Calls: Unlimited within Europe and 120 min outside of Europe.
• Texts/SMS: Unlimited within Europe and 1000 outside of Europe.
• Credit validity: 14 day
• Data tethering allowed
• This eSIM card comes with a French phone number

The  Orange Holiday Europe eSIM data plan is another excellent eSIM plan because it comes with 30GB of data and many features you don’t find with other plans—including international voice calling and texts (it gives you an actual French phone number that will work anywhere in Europe). The Orange Holiday Europe eSIM plan also allows you to use your phone as a mobile hotspot.

Orange is also one of the largest mobile companies in Europe so you’ll always get great coverage and high data speeds.

The potential downside to the Orange Holiday Europe eSIM is that it’s only valid for 14 days once activated so it’s not great for longer visits (but you can always buy a second plan).

Orange Holiday Zen eSIM: $29.90

• Price: $29.90 (Check SimOptions for details)
• Data: 15GB (recently upgraded from 8GB)
• Calls: Unlimited within Europe and 30 min outside of Europe.
• Texts/SMS: Unlimited within Europe and 200 outside of Europe.

The Orange Holiday Zen plan is a top pick for travelers for a few different reasons.

First, Orange is one of the largest mobile networks in Europe so they have great coverage basically everywhere in Europe and you won’t have to worry about slow speeds.

Second, Orange Holiday eSIM data plan gives you unlimited calls and texts within Europe and limited (yet still ample) credit for calls/texts outside the EU. A majority of eSIM plans from other providers don’t give you any (or very limited) credit for calls or texts.

This plan comes with 15GB of mobile data which should suffice for most travelers who aren’t heavy data users.

Smart Comfort X eSIM: $17.90

• Price: $17.90 (Check SimOptions for details)
• Calls: None

The Smart Comfort X eSIM is a budget data-only eSIM plan option that gives you 5GB of data but no calls or texts (you can still send iMessage if you’re sending messages between iPhones and make calls/texts via WhatsApp, etc.).

Smart Comfort X eSIM is also what’s considered an “international eSIM” so it’s not backed by a specific data provider (i.e. Orange, O2, etc.). That means it will connect to a specific partner provider in each country—for example, France (Bouygues), Germany (O2), Italy (WIND), Spain (Telefonica), etc.

Because of its limited data limits, the Smart Comfort X eSIM plan is best for light data users.

Do European eSIM Plans Come With A European Phone Number?

Some European prepaid eSIM plans come with a European phone number but many prepaid eSIM plans are data only. You probably don’t need a European phone number but it can come in handy for calling restaurants, hotels, or Airbnb hosts (many use WhatsApp—which only requires a data connection).

Recommended Prepaid eSim Plans with A European Phone Number:

• Bouygues My European eSIM : This eSIM plan comes with unlimited calling in Europe.
• Holafly Europe eSIM : Holafly eSIM plans include 60 minutes of calling in Europe.
• Orange Holiday Europe eSIM and Orange Holiday Zen eSIM : Orange comes with international and Europe calling.

Studies show that the average American uses about 5-7GB of mobile data every week but your rate will vary.

You can easily hit 15GB/week if you’re a heavy user but it’s fairly easy to keep your mobile data usage under 2-3GB/week if you stick to basic web browsing, limit your social media use, and keep app usage to a minimum (or save your heavy usage for when you’re on wifi).

Activating an eSIM is relatively simple.

UPDATE: Apple’s iOS 17.4 update (released late March 2024) now includes an automatic eSIM installation and activation feature—making setting up and managing your eSIM much easier. This is great news!

Step One: Purchase Your Data Plan

I highly recommend purchasing your eSIM before you leave because you’ll need data/wifi to complete the setup.

Step Two: Check Your Email For The QR Code

You’ll get an email from the seller as soon as you make your purchase.

This email will include a QR code that you can scan so you’ll want to be in front of your computer so you can scan the QR code from your screen.

Step Three: Install The Carrier’s eSIM App

The QR code will lead you to download the carrier’s eSIM app. Just follow the directions they send you.

IMPORTANT: Don’t fully activate your eSIM data plan until you’re in Europe. Most data plans only have a validity period of 14-30 days and that countdown begins the second you activate the service. So, for example, if you activate the service a week before your trip then you’ll have lost a full week from your service length (even if you haven’t used any data).

Step Four: Fully Activate Service Once in Europe

Finish the activation process. Your phone should automatically connect to the local data network (it might take a few minutes to get fully activated).

The beauty of eSIM plans is that they’re completely digital so you can buy them online anytime, anywhere (see all the above eSIM options).

Every European country has its own domestic mobile carriers and each is starting to offer its own prepaid eSIM data plans. However, carrier-specific eSIM mobile packages aren’t quite widespread in Europe yet so not every mobile carrier will have options—therefore, not every retailer will have them (or they’ll have a very limited selection).

Furthermore, many European carriers only offer “postpaid” eSIM plans so they’re generally not conducive to short-term visitors and tourists. That’s why I recommend buying one of the eSIM plans I mentioned earlier in this article.

What Countries in Europe Support eSIM?

While not every mobile carrier in Europe has an eSIM mobile plan, there are carriers in every European country that accept eSIM technology—therefore, your phone will automatically connect to a provider (no matter what eSIM plan you’re using).

Simply put: Your eSIM data plan will work anywhere in Europe.

Coverage Note About Switzerland (and Possibly the UK): Switzerland is an outlier because they’re not technically part of the EU so some providers don’t work there. For example, the Orange Holiday plans work in Switzerland but the Smart Comfort X plan won’t work there. There are also rumors that the UK also has (or will have soon) the same issues because of Brexit. Learn more on our Guide on How To Use Data Plans and Smartphone Phones Abroad

Here are a few more tips for getting the most out of using your high-speed eSIM mobile data plan while traveling around Europe. If you want to learn more, check out The Savvy Backpacker’s Guide to How To Use Data Plans and Smartphone Phones Abroad

You Need An Unlocked Phone

You need to make sure your phone is unlocked before you can install both a SIM card or eSIM—many American mobile carriers use software to “lock” their smartphones to their network so the phone won’t work if you install a SIM card from another company.

However, you can unlock your phone by calling your mobile carrier and asking them to unlock it because you’re going to travel abroad (you might need to visit a store to get it unlocked).

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.

Save Heavy Data Usage For When You’re On Wifi

It’s extremely easy to unknowingly burn through a lot of data—especially when you’re using data-hungry apps like Facebook, Instagram, Snapchat, and TikTok. Therefore it’s highly recommended to save your heavy data usage for when you’re connected to wifi.

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.

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.

Download WhatsApp

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

Get More Europe Travel Tips From The Savvy Backpacker

Are you heading to Europe soon? Here are some more helpful articles I’ve written to help you plan your European travels.

• Backpacking Europe Packing List
• Europe Packing List for Women
• The Best Travel Shoes
• The Best Travel Backpacks  and  The Best Travel Backpacks for Women
• Guide To Buying SIM Cards and Mobile Data Plans in  France
• Guide to Buying SIM Cards and Mobile Data Plans in Germany
• Guide To Buying SIM Cards and Mobile Data Plans in  Italy
• Guide To Buying SIM Cards and Mobile Data Plans in  Spain
• Recent Posts
• New York Pass Review | Is It A Good Value or Waste of Money? - May 20, 2024
• Paris Pass Review — A Good Value or Waste of Money? - May 13, 2024
• The Best Travel Backpacks | In-Depth Buyer’s Guide & Backpack Reviews - April 28, 2024

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Use eSIM while traveling internationally with your iPhone

Learn about the options and benefits for using eSIM while traveling abroad.

Learn about the benefits of traveling with eSIM

eSIM is more secure than a physical SIM because it can't be removed if your iPhone is lost or stolen.

With eSIM, you don't need to obtain, carry, and swap physical SIM cards (which can also be lost), or wait for them to arrive by mail.

You can have two eSIMs active on supported iPhone models at the same time. This could, for example, include one eSIM for your home and another eSIM for the place you're visiting.

You can swap which of your stored eSIMs are active simply by changing your selections in Settings. This might be helpful if you travel regularly to the same places.

What you need

An iPhone XS, iPhone XS Max, iPhone XR, or later

A wireless carrier or worldwide service provider that supports eSIM

Your iPhone must be connected to a Wi-Fi network*

If your iPhone has a SIM tray, you can use both a physical SIM and an eSIM while traveling internationally

Learn more about eSIM on iPhone

eSIM on iPhone isn’t 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 .

Roam internationally with your existing carrier

Carriers might include international roaming on select data plans without additional fees.

Alternatively, your carrier might offer affordable travel passes or plans that you can purchase ahead of time to use at your destination.

International roaming with an eSIM works the same as roaming with a physical SIM.

Your carrier might offer the ability to digitally manage your eSIM plan and add more data as needed.

To learn more, contact your carrier.

Learn more about cellular data roaming options for traveling internationally

Purchase an eSIM from a local carrier in the country or region you're visiting

Find carriers around the world that support eSIM on iPhone .

If your iPhone is locked to a carrier, it can be used only by that carrier. You can add multiple eSIMs and plans through that carrier. To check if your iPhone is unlocked, go to Settings > General > About. If your iPhone is unlocked, "No SIM restrictions" appears next to Carrier Lock. Learn how to unlock iPhone for use with a different carrier .

Many carriers offer prepaid plan options that you can purchase from the carriers' websites or apps before you arrive, or in person after arrival, through a carrier kiosk at the airport, carrier store, or other location. Carriers will provide steps to activate your eSIM digitally, like with a QR code or carrier app. Depending on local regulations, you might be asked to show identification (like your passport) to purchase. These prepaid carrier options might offer more affordable local plans for data, voice, and text. Check with individual carriers for details.

In addition to purchasing a prepaid eSIM plan, you might wish to get a postpaid account if you plan to be in another place for an extended time.Carriers around the world that support eSIM offer postpaid plans. Depending on the country or region, you might need proof of local residency, an established local bank account, or credit card.

On your iPhone, you can store eight or more eSIMs, which can be used as needed. On supported iPhone models, you can use two eSIMs at the same time . Carrier fees might apply. Contact your carrier for information.

Purchase a prepaid data eSIM from a worldwide service provider

Many worldwide service providers offer prepaid data plans . These plans allow you to stay connected in over 190 countries and regions when you travel. Carriers offer plans that differ by the amount of data and duration. You can also purchase a plan before you travel.

Apps that offer data only eSIM plans are available on the App Store on your iPhone .

While you're abroad, you can use a data-only eSIM as your secondary line and have two active eSIM plans on supported iPhone models.

The capabilities on your primary line will continue to work when you add a data-only eSIM for cellular data. For example, you might keep your primary line for your home and set up a data-only eSIM plan as your secondary line while traveling.

To choose your data line, go to Settings > Cellular > Cellular Data. You can continue to use FaceTime, iMessage, and other apps to make VoIP calls or send messages while you're traveling.

You can also turn data roaming on and off on your home line in Settings > Cellular > Cellular Data. Carrier fees might apply.

If you purchased an iPhone 14 model or later in the United States but will use it while living in a different country or region

You can activate an unlocked iPhone 14 model or later that you purchased in the United States with over 400 carriers in 100 markets worldwide that support eSIM on iPhone . Contact your carrier to confirm that they support eSIM on your cellular plan. Also, check iPhone cellular band support for country compatibility.

Many worldwide service providers also offer prepaid eSIM data plans for long-term use in countries and regions across the world.

* iPhone 14 models and later that are eSIM-only can activate without a Wi-Fi network.

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47 minutes ago

Very fast and very easy to use

Very fast and very easy to use, I used Nomad for China as it has VPN already included in the eSIM so you don’t need to install and use a third party VPN app. I also used it in South Korea, it was as well easy and fast.

2 hours ago

reliable and easy to connect

This has been a friendly helpful…

This has been a friendly helpful service. From set up we have been well covered with network coverage. No hassles, and I highly recommend Nomad The easiest way to travel abroad with communication in even remote areas!

Samsung Galaxy S21+5G

May 18, 2024

Nomad has been a big help

Nomad has been a big help with our travels. Being able to remain connected is important, especially while traveling. The technical assistance was very helpful as well.

May 17, 2024

Reliable and cheap

First time using an e-sim, and all i can say is that it's worth every penny. Have used it in Germany and Netherlands and i had 0 issues so far.

Google Pixel 7 Pro

May 15, 2024

Fast set up. Easy to use.

Fast set up. Easy to use. Went to Italy for a conference recently and decided to give this esim service a try. It worked flawlessly. Just remember to activate your plan on the app before you leave for your trip. You can have the esim off in your phone settings and turn it on once you've arrived at your destination.

DallitudeMike

May 14, 2024

Super convenient!

Needed data for UK & France for a 2 week trip. The packages were very affordable compared to buying from my main provider and the data worked flawlessly. I was even able to pick which network I preferred in each country (using some advanced iPhone settings). Will definitely be using for my next trip!

Google Pixel 6a

May 13, 2024

Worked perfectly

Worked perfectly when I roamed to the USA. On entering Canada everything stopped working but a quick email to nomad support quickly fixed things so everything worked there too.

May 10, 2024

Won't travel without Nomad

From the time I landed in Italy, Nomad was amazing! The instructions on installing and setting up were flawless and customer service answered any questions I had before flying out of the US. I was worried having never used an eSIM before but within minutes of landing knew I would be just fine!! Thank you Nomad for an amazing service that kept me in touch with family in the states while I traveled to Europe for the first time! I will never use another as long as Nomad has coverage for the area!

May 6, 2024

I took an International plan (28 days from Jio). Within 2 days, it ran out and started selling me overpriced plans. I switched to Nomad and the on-boarding experience was smooth- it was over before I knew it. I traveled through Spsin and Portugal and never had any issues with bandwidth or lack of service. Highly recommended. The configuration I would use in future: Jio for inbound SMS ONLY. And Nomad for data especially Google Maps, WhatsApp for calls. Of course, YouTube using WiFi at airports and hotel.

Google Pixel 6 Pro

The best eSIM brand

Works well in New Zealand both north and south island and in mainland China. It supports data sharing via hotspot to other devices. Coverage is decent and works in many places airalo doesn't. easy to top up from overseas unlike many other brands.

Samsung Galaxy S21 5G

May 5, 2024

It worked flawlessly

I downloaded Nomad eSim for my 10 day trip to London, Paris, Brussels, and Antwerp. It worked flawlessly, and I had mostly 5G combed throughout my travels. It was most helpful using Translation and Navigation, as well as anytime I needed to figure out the public transit systems.

May 1, 2024

Works well in China even with tethering

Works very good in China incl. tethering!!!!. Important to me to work with my notebook and mobile hotspot. Other providers do not offer it. Great!

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Travel eSIM deals

What is a travel esim, which phones are esims compatible with.

Popular eSIM destinations

Using an eSIM abroad is a simple and cost-effective way to travel. It means you can enjoy internet connectivity and make calls and texts without worrying about handling a physical SIM card. See available esim destinations below.

From £0.33 per day

See Mexican eSIMs

See USA eSIMs

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What are the benefits of using eSIM for travel?

eSIM technology offers an added layer of security compared to physical SIM cards. Since the eSIM is embedded within your device and cannot be physically removed, it provides increased protection against unauthorised access if your iPhone is lost or stolen. Even if someone gains possession of your device, they won't be able to remove the eSIM to gain access to your network services or sensitive information.

With an eSIM, the hassle of obtaining, carrying, and swapping physical SIM cards is eliminated. Gone are the days of needing to keep track of multiple SIM cards or waiting for them to be delivered through the mail before you can travel. Instead, an eSIM allows you to activate your service directly on your device, providing instant network access without needing physical SIM card handling.

Certain iPhone models allow you to have two active eSIMs simultaneously. This means you can have separate eSIMs for different purposes or locations. For example, you could have one eSIM configured for your home location and another for the place you're visiting, removing the need for physical SIM card swapping.

With the flexibility offered by eSIM technology, switching between your stored eSIMs is a breeze. By simply changing the selection in your device's settings, you can easily toggle between your active eSIM profiles. This feature proves particularly useful for frequent travellers or individuals who regularly visit specific locations, as it allows for quick and convenient access to network services based on their current needs or location.

How to activate your international eSIM

Make sure your device is esim compatible.

The first and most important step in activating your eSIM is to make sure that your current device is actually eSIM compatible. You can check this on your phone settings.

Purchase and activate your eSIM

After buying your eSIM, you can activate it, by going to Settings→Cellular→Add Cellular Plan. Then scan the QR code provided by your provider or enter the eSIM details manually.

Switch between your physical SIM and eSIM

If, when purchasing an eSIM, you already have a physical SIM card in your device, you can switch plans by, going to Setting→Cellular and tapping on your desired plan.

How to top up your travel eSIM

Topping up your travel eSIM is quick and straightforward. All you need to do is go to your service provider’s app (all data plans require you to download the app), and from there, you can easily add credit to your account.

Which UK providers offer travel eSIMs?

eSIMs have been part of the consumer market since 2016, but it wasn’t until Apple launched the iPhone 14 (which was eSIM only in the US) that it started getting the recognition it deserved. 

However, not all UK networks support eSIMs at the moment. The good news is that most of the major networks, including O2, Three, EE, and Vodafone, offer this service. Some smaller networks, like Lycamobile and Giffgaff, also offer eSIMs.

Can an eSIM be used on multiple devices?

Can i buy multiple travel esims for my whole family, what happens if i accidentally delete my esim, do i have to activate data roaming on my device, how can i check how much data i have left, can i keep my whatsapp number.