data travel esim

Best eSIMs for travel of 2024

These eSIMs 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 global plans
• Best for Europe
• Best for data-only plans
• eSIMs for international travel FAQs

1. Best eSIM overall 2. Best eSIM for customizable plans 3. Best eSIM for easy installation 4. Best eSIM for value for money 5. Best eSIM for security   6. Best eSIM for network coverage  7. Best eSIM for unlimited data 8. Best eSIM for global plans 9. Best eSIM for Europe   10. Best eSIM for data-only plans 11. eSIMs for international travel 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.

What is an eSIM?  

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eSIM cards are digital SIM cards already embedded in the mobile device, eliminating the need for physical SIM cards. It is a small rewritable chip fixed inside your phone, which connects with an antenna to function as a SIM card. The antenna is nothing but a network selected by you. 

Since it is rewritable, you can change your operator with just a simple phone call. There’s no need to go through the hassle of purchasing a new SIM card and waiting for it to arrive in the mail. 

Actually, eSIMs have been around for quite some time now. You can find many devices that are compatible with eSIMs. But when iPhone decided to remove the good old SIM card slot and shift the device to being completely eSIM featured, this feature got its attention. The main reason eSIMs are being preferred is because of their ease of use and convenience. 

Another advantage of eSIM is that it saves space accommodated by the SIM card holder, leading to either smaller phones or larger batteries, both of which are interesting propositions. Not to mention, the enormous amount of plastic being used to make all these SIM cards will no longer be required. 

eSIMs could be pretty revolutionary as they can be used to enable 5G connectivity in almost anything we would want it to, preferably glasses or a fitness tracker, as it doesn’t take up as much space inside the device.  

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 a few cons here and there.

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 the SIM when needed without having to pay 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 from the place you're traveling to. 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 need to remove them in case you want to change your SIM card, so they practically can’t get lost. And if your phone gets lost or stolen, tracking it through the eSIM card is much easier since it cannot be removed from the device. 

Note that international roaming works the same way on physical 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 of the place you are visiting without losing your old numbers. This is especially handy when you are visiting multiple countries. 

With eSIMs, switching SIMs is as easy as purchasing a plan online and activating it after completing the payment. If you travel frequently for business or any other purpose, switching contact numbers could be quite a frequent task. With eSIMs, you can shuffle between SIM cards as soon as you enter the airport or right when you leave the country.

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. 

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Top 10 eSIM providers for international travel 

Our expert review:

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 deal 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. 

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 plans 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, 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 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. 

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 AloSIM data calculator that 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. 

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 Europe 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.

Concluding, 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. 

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 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.

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 that 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, 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 it doesn'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 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.

Best eSIM for global plans

8. 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 which 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

9. 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

10. 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.

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

Best eSIMs for international travel FAQs

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. The place that you are 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.  

2. 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 days 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 do 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 app and activated by scanning a QR code or following the steps provided in the manual. 

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 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. These countries are still fully dependent on physical SIMs.  

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. 

Are eSIM better than physical SIM cards?  

eSIM card is a recently developed digital version of a physical SIM card that solves most problems faced while using a physical SIM card. While the functionality of both the SIMs has no difference, eSIM has an almost negligible chance of getting damaged, and since they cannot be physically detached from the device, it is impossible to lose them. 

If your device gets stolen, the thief will first throw out your SIM card because the device can be easily tracked through its SIM card. With eSIMs, this option just isn't there, so you can easily locate your device if it's ever stolen or lost. 

Also, eSIM frees up the space that a SIM card blocks. This space can be used to better optimize the device and leave less room for dust to enter. It also makes it better for devices like smartwatches to have an eSIM. 

On the other hand, eSIMs aren't as widely recognized yet, and physical SIM cards are supported on all devices. If your device doesn't support it, you'll have to get another one to switch to eSIMs.  

Plus, if you want to change your device, it is a lot more convenient to just place your SIM card in a different device, and just the day started. The same thing goes for a situation when you want to transfer contacts that are saved in your SIM card. 

eSIMs store data on the cloud. You can simply download it when needed. This way, your data remains safe and doesn't use up any storage on your device. 

Finally, both eSIMs and physical SIM cards have benefits of their own, and the better option definitely depends on personal preference, but objectively, eSIM is definitely the better option.  

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, it's 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/2023/07/bne-logo.png
• Title: BNESIM
• Description: Best for International Numbers
• Target: 5-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: 6-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: 7-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: 8-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

And if you are considering Airalo but you are still not sure if it's the right eSIM for you, you can 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, even throwing in 60 minutes of free calls in Europe for good measure. Those bonus minutes came in quite handy when we had to call a boat rental place in Javea during our trip to Spain!

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, 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 .

And if you are considering Holafly but you are still not sure if it's the right eSIM for you, 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

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 will make sure you are just a tap away from the internet. It was a trusted companion when were 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 Hushed , aloSIM’s sister app, which lets you dodge roaming fees and secure private numbers for calls and texts , all powered by aloSIM data—pretty cool, huh?

• Coverage: 170 countries, 11 regions
• Allows hotspotting and tethering: Yes

How to Install aloSIM eSIM

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

6. 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

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 Use Yesim eSIM

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

And if you are considering GigSky but you are still not sure if it's the right eSIM for you, read our full GigSky review here:

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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How To Create a Healthy Work-Life Balance While Working Remotely

Wise travel debit card review: fees, exchange rates, limits and how to use it, how to set up and manage an esim on iphone.

Best eSIM for International Travel in 2024 (Tested & Proven)

Project Untethered is reader-supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn a commissions at no cost to you ( full disclosure ).

I’ve been testing travel eSIMs for over 21 months in 19 countries across 5 continents. 

But instead of telling you what I think the best eSIMs for international travel are based on my opinion, I decided to do an actual experiment, run tests, gather data, and settle this once and for all. 

Note: Most eSIM companies have refer-a-friend bonuses built into their app. So if you want discounts/free credits for any of these eSIMs, feel free to use the codes in the corresponding section. 

Table of Contents

TL;DR – Key findings

Airalo (⭐️ best for “normie vacationers”), nomad (⭐️ runner-up for “normie vacationers”), holafly (⭐️ best for “data hogs”), gigsky , maya mobile, best travel esim for long-term travelers and nomads, choosing international esim providers to test, sample countries, plan variety, customer service, ease of setup, regions covered, data speeds, how to choose the best travel esim.

👉 All companies I tested worked, but some are definitely easier to use and have better features than others. 👉 For “Normie Vacationers” who only use data for the essentials, Airalo is my top pick. However, in some countries, Nomad has more plan variety. 👉 For “Data Hogs” who use a lot of IG, TikTok, and Youtube, Holafly unlimited data eSIMs are the best option in many countries. 👉 For “Nomads” and long-term travelers, it may be more convenient to switch your home line to a plan that includes international data — but there are some caveats.

10 Best eSIMs for International Travel, Tested & Ranked

The best international eSIM depends on your travel style, trip length, destination, and data usage.

Every situation is unique, and no one eSIM company offers the best deal in every single country. 

However, some companies consistently offer better prices, plan variety, customer service, and user experience. 

I hope this research saves you time, money, and hassle trying to find the best eSIM for your trip. 

Just remember that they are general recommendations based on the six popular regions I included in my investigation. 

There may be exceptions and outliers for certain countries and data needs. 

See full details on how I ran the experiment and assigned ratings. 

Price: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Ease of setup: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Customer service: ⭐️⭐️⭐️ Avg. Plan Variety: 4 plan options Regions covered*: 200+ Data sharing: Yes Standout features: Easiest app to use Read full Airalo review

Airalo is my #1 recommendation for “Normie Vacationers”.

A “Normie Vacationer” is the type of person going on a trip for a week or two who only uses data for the essentials — maps, messages, light research, light social media, etc.

In other words, you don’t blow through your data scrolling through IG, TikTok, Youtube, or other data-intensive things on your phone (there’s a better eSIM for these types of people).

Airalo tops the charts because they usually have the lowest (or at least competitive) prices in many destinations. 

I also found their setup process to be the easiest of all eSIMs tested. 

This is thanks to their handy app , which allows you to buy, install, top-up, and monitor plans all from within the app. 

One downside to Airalo is their customer service is not that impressive. During my tests, it took around 25 minutes for responses (and it could take many responses to get an issue solved). 

Fortunately, after using Airalo for many months in 8 different countries, I’ve only had a few service hiccups — so it’s unlikely you’ll need to contact support. 

The other downside is there are certain regions of the world where Airalo has a limited number of plan options to choose from. 

So if you search your destination in Airalo and don’t find a plan that fits your trip, you can try my next recommendation instead. 

Use discount code MITCH9827 for free credits

Price: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Ease of setup: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Customer service: ⭐️⭐️ Avg. Plan Variety: 6 plan options Regions covered*: 165 Data sharing: Yes Standout features: App with easy setup, better plan variety in certain regions Read full Nomad eSIM review

Nomad is the runner-up choice for “Normie Vacationers” (AKA light data users).

They rank right up there with Airalo, but with some slight differences.

The Nomad app is pretty slick, but not quite as intuitive as Airalo (in my opinion). 

You can buy your eSIM from within the app, but you need to leave the app to install your eSIM — either via QR code or manually pasting in the codes. 

That said, they have super clear instructions and onboarding, so the process is quite easy. 

After researching and comparing plan options across different countries, I found that smaller plans (1-2 weeks, 1-2GB) were on par with Airalo prices — either the same or within a dollar or two.

In certain regions of the world — like Southeast Asia — Nomad actually has more plan options than Airalo, so you’re more likely to find one that precisely fits your needs. 

Nomad had a slightly slower customer response time than Airalo — getting back to me after 50 minutes. 

Again, the odds of you needing to use customer services are low, but it would be nice if they were more prompt. 

Overall, if I were going on a Normie Traveler trip, I’d just pop open Airalo , then pop open Nomad , then see which one has the best price for the amount of data I need. 

Or if you want to keep life simple, just choose one and stick with it for all your travels. The differences are usually minimal. 

Use discount code UNTETHER for free credits

Price: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️* Ease of setup: ⭐️⭐️⭐️ Customer service: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Avg. Plan Variety: 7 plan options Regions covered*: 170+ Data sharing: No Standout features: Unlimited plans, multilingual customer support Read full Holafly review

Holafly is unique from all other eSIM providers in this experiment because they focus on unlimited data plans. 

This is the best travel eSIM for you if you’re the type of person who instinctively opens Instagram, TikTok, or Youtube whenever you’re waiting at a restaurant or lounging at the beach.

If you’re a “data hog”, the small Airalo plans aren’t gonna cut it. 

If you buy a small plan, you have to constantly monitor your usage and risk running out of data when you need it most. 

Not only that, but as a heavy data user, you’ll likely need to top up these small plans multiple times, which can be more expensive in the long run. 

*The more data you use, the cheaper Holafly ends up being per GB (but the opposite is also true).  

Holafly ranks 3 stars for ease of setup because while they have some of the clearest installation instructions, they have yet to integrate the buying or setup process into their app. 

That means you have to follow the instructions in their email to configure your settings, but these are pretty straightforward. 

Holafly had the best customer service response times out of all eSIM companies tested — responding to their Whatsapp chat within 60 seconds (by a REAL HUMAN!). 

The downside to Holafly is that their unlimited plans currently do not allow data sharing, so it’s not very helpful for digital nomads who need to tether their laptops for an internet connection. 

Long story short — Holafly is your best option if you want an unlimited data plan and don’t need to tether.

Use discount code PROJECTUNTETHERED

Price: ⭐️* Ease of setup: ⭐️⭐️⭐️ Customer service: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Avg. Plan Variety: 1 (charged per MB) Regions covered*: 197 regions Data sharing: Yes Standout features: Pay per MB, eSIM or physical SIM, Global data with one eSIM Read full Drimsim review (coming soon)

Drimsim is a bit different than all the other eSIM companies tested. 

With other companies, you buy a data package that includes a data allowance, a time limit, and a destination (or region).

With Drimsim, you buy one eSIM (or physical SIM) that works in 197 regions, add credit to your account, then get charged per MB against your balance. 

In other words, you pay for what you use instead of paying for a set package.

Rates vary by country, and you can check them all out here . 

Your eSIM has no expiration date. But if you’re inactive for 360 days, it will start drawing €0.5 per month from your balance until you reach zero balance. You can extend this 360-day limit by switching the eSIM on and using a tiny bit of data. 

Per GB, Drimsim is more expensive than Airalo, Holafly, and most other companies on this list (hence the one-star rating).

However , it does have an interesting use case for hardcore travelers who frequently hop around different countries. 

Essentially, you could add some credit and use Drimsim as a “backup” data plan. 

That way, if you’re just on a long layover or passing through a country in a day or two, you could use your Drimsim credits instead of buying a whole separate eSIM. 

You also wouldn’t ever have to worry about installing a country-specific data plan on your phone before leaving on your trip. You could simply arrive in your destination, switch on Drimsim until you get to your accommodation, then buy a cheaper local eSIM once you’re settled in.

The minimum to get started with Drimsim is €35 (€10 for the eSIM and €25 for the minimum amount of credits). 

An alternative “backup” plan would be to get a global eSIM from Airalo . Their biggest global plan costs $69 for 20GB in 127 countries for 365 days. This annual global plan costs double and expires after one year, but you’d get roughly 10x more data out of it. 

Then again, if you’re just using it for short-term emergencies, you may not need that much data to begin with. 

Price: ⭐️⭐️⭐️ Ease of setup: ⭐️ Customer service: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Avg. Plan Variety: 9 plan options Regions covered*: 200+ regions Data sharing: Yes Standout features: Flexishare (send data to someone elses phone), frequent global plan discounts Read full Flexiroam review

Flexiroam has some good things going for it, but one big flaw that makes it not worth it. 

Let’s start with the good — it has more plan variety than all other companies I tested. Many countries even have tiny 1-day 500mb plans for emergencies or if you’re just on a quick layover in a country. 

They also have huge discounts on global data plans every couple months. If you don’t buy with a discount, the plans are quite expensive compared to the competition.

The big downside is the user interface and setup process is super clunky and buggy. 

It worked for me well for a while. But at one point, it just stopped working, and I couldn’t figure out how to fix it. 

Unlike our top international eSIM recommendations above, Flexiroam does not “just work”. It is finicky and frustrating.

Price: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Ease of setup: ⭐️⭐️ Customer service: ⭐️⭐️⭐️ Avg. Plan Variety: 3 plan options Regions covered*: 190+ regions Data sharing: Yes Standout features: Convenient auto-install after in-app purchase, unique plans like offshore (ocean) coverage Read full GigSky review  

GigSky has some cool features, but these are overshadowed by some blunders. 

I like how it prompts you to auto-install your eSIM right after buying in the app. It’s a super streamlined process. 

The problem is, they don’t give any instructions on what settings you’re supposed to use.

For example, to get mine to work, I had to toggle on Data Roaming. But there were no GigSky instructions saying to do this. 

If you’ve never set up an eSIM before, that’s a recipe for frustration.

Also, it seems like the website is completely separate from the app. That means if you buy on the website, you can’t manage the eSIM in the app, and vice versa. This is weird and inconvenient. 

Customer service wasn’t great — about 30 minutes to respond.

Lastly, other than the price, length, and data amount, they don’t give you many details about the plan you’re buying (like if data sharing works, what network you’ll be on, if it includes calls, etc). 

I like to know exactly what I’m getting before I buy something, so this bugged me. 

Use discount code MITC174 for free credits

Price: ⭐️⭐️ Ease of setup: ⭐️⭐️⭐️ Customer service: ⭐️ Avg. Plan Variety: 1 Regions covered*: 200+ regions Data sharing: Yes Standout features: Speed test results (for the plan I bought) was faster than average Read full SimOptions review (coming soon)

SimOptions had the lowest rankings of the companies tested. 

The installation instructions were decent. But prices seem more expensive, and there is no app. 

However, what bothered me the most was the website. On the surface, it looks professional. But once you start testing things, it starts to feel like a front. 

They claim 24/7 customer service, but my customer service inquiry NEVER got responded to. Out of all the companies, this was the only one that never got back to me. 

They claim they always sell at retail price and that you’ll never find a cheaper option, but in our price comparison research, SimOptions never had the cheapest prices. 

Lastly, they have star ratings listed for each eSIM package, but if you click through, it takes you to their general Reviews page (and doesn’t show anything specific to the package you’re interested in). 

I also searched packages in several different countries, and every single one had either a 4.9 or 5-star rating, so it all just feels a little fake.

Price: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Ease of setup: ⭐️⭐️⭐️ Customer service: ⭐️⭐️⭐️ Avg. Plan Variety: 3 plan options Regions covered*: 200+ regions Data sharing: Yes (on most) Standout features: Cheapest global plan I’ve seen (did not test though) Read full MobiMatter review (coming soon)

MobiMatter ended up being a decent option with fair prices, but it wasn’t my favorite. 

They have some weirdly specific regional plans, like Singapore + Malaysia + Thailand (and tons more combinations like this). 

When you search for a country, at first glance it seems like there are a million different plan options to choose from. 

But in reality, they are tied for the worst variety in plan options (i.e. average number of local eSIMs for one specific country).

It just seems like a lot of options because they mix local, regional, and global plans all together.

This makes it significantly harder to sort through and compare options. 

They also completely forget to explain how to set up your eSIM the “manual” way (i.e. pasting in the activation codes to your settings). 

If you don’t have a second device to scan the QR code, you need to use the manual setup method. And if you’re a first-time eSIM user, this could be frustrating to figure out without proper instructions.

Price: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Ease of setup: ⭐️* Customer service: ⭐️⭐️⭐️ Avg. Plan Variety: 28 plan options Regions covered*: 194 countries Data sharing: Yes (apart from Lite unlimited plan) Standout features: “Unlimited” plans with data sharing (on Standard and Max plans) Read full Maya Mobile review (coming soon)

Maya Mobile could have been one of the highest-ranked providers if it weren’t for a couple of annoying problems. 

They have the highest plan variety (average number of plan options) in the countries included in our sample — including both normal and unlimited plans. 

Prices are competitive — never the absolute cheapest, but usually within a fair range. 

There’s no app, but the website is clean and easy to use. Well, that assumes you can actually create an account…

I wasted an hour of my life trying to fill out a buggy sign-up form.

I tried on several different days using VPNs, incognito mode, Safari, Chrome, wifi, tethering to my phone…you name it. But whenever I clicked submit, I got the never-ending loading ball of death.

Maybe it was just a fluke, but be warned. 

I may give Maya another chance in the future. But since I wasted so many neurons trying (and failing) to log in, I prefer Airalo or Holafly, which have never given me such headaches. 

Price: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Ease of setup: ⭐️ Customer service: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Avg. Plan Variety: 5 plan options Regions covered*: 170 Data sharing: Yes Standout features: Lifetime data plans Read full BNESIM review

BNESIM (AKA “Best Network Ever”) has a cute name, but I wasn’t impressed. 

Prices are in line with other eSIM providers and they have decent plan variety. 

But the website looks a bit sketch. I actually felt a little wary typing in my credit card number to buy my eSIM. Their app looks more professional, but it was a bit buggy and wouldn’t always load correctly. 

Speaking of which, there are actually two apps, which adds to the confusion. 

I also found the setup instructions quite confusing and contradictory. If you’ve installed eSIMs before, you could figure it out. But if it’s your first time, it might feel confusing.

Their customer service was surprisingly decent, responding within 3 to 10 minutes each time. 

Overall, BNESIM might have potential someday once they work out all the kinks. But for now, I’d stick with more established providers like Airalo (for light data users) or Holafly (for heavy data users). 

If you’re a long-term traveler, it might be worth looking into “normal” phone plans in your home country that include international data as part of the plan.

For example, two plans that come to mind for US citizens are Google Fi and US Mobile’s Premium Unlimited plan.

Google Fi costs $65/month for one person and includes international data.

The catch is that you’re not meant to spend more than 90 consecutive days abroad. If you do, you risk having your plan shut off.

US Mobile’s Premium Unlimited plan costs $50/month at the time of writing (or $37.50/month paid annually). According to their customer service, it does not have the same 90-day restriction as Google Fi.

The downside to US Mobile is that you’re limited to between 1GB and 10GB of data per month, depending on the country you’re in.

Both of these plans will likely cost you more per month than simply buying Airalo or Holafly for your travels.

But if don’t want to worry about loading up travel eSIMs, then the extra convenience may be worth the price.

Neither of these two plans were part of my experiment, but they’re worth mentioning.

Methods and Procedures

Here’s the “long version” of how I gathered data and assigned rankings for this study.

For this study, I focused on eSIM providers that are already somewhat established.

To find these companies, I used a keyword research tool to measure the average number of times people search for the brand name in Google each month.

I chose the eSIM companies with the highest search volume I could find, and companies with zero search volume were automatically disqualified.

New eSIM companies are popping up every day, but most of them are so small (i.e. nobody is searching for them) that it’s extremely unlikely they would have the resources required to be the best travel eSIM in 2024.

Each eSIM company offers different plans for different countries. To get a representative sample, I chose six of the top tourist destinations from different regions/continents around the globe.

🇫🇷 France (Europe) 🇲🇦 Morocco (Africa) 🇹🇭 Thailand (Asia) 🇦🇷 Argentina (South America) 🇲🇽 Mexico (North America) 🇺🇸 USA (North America)

These countries were used for gathering data on price and plan variety. 

Not all companies offer the exact same GB+length plans, so it’s often challenging to compare apples to apples.

Also, some companies have cheaper small plans, but more expensive large plans. 

To add to the complexity, it’s hard to compare “regular” prices, because some countries run limited-time sales, while others have a “sale” price that never changes. 

So to determine pricing ratings, I gathered data on the smallest and biggest plans offered by each company in the sample countries. From there, I marked the frequency at which each company had the cheapest plan.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ = Highest frequency of cheapest plans ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ = Occasional cheapest plan, almost always in the ballpark. ⭐️⭐️⭐️ = Never the cheapest, but usually in the ballpark. ⭐️⭐️ = Never the cheapest, often not in the ballpark. ⭐️ = All plans are significantly more expensive than the norm. 

*I added an asterisk to Holafly and Drimsim because they are special cases. 

Holafly ranked 5 stars, but this is only true for heavy data users who actually take advantage of the unlimited data. For light data users, Holafly plans are overkill.

Drimsim ranked 1 star because GB for GB, it is much more expensive than all other plans. However, due to its unique setup, it could be an inexpensive option as your “backup” data plan (as I explain in the Drimsim section).

Please note that this sample data covers 6 of the most popular tourist destinations in different regions, but there may be many pricing exceptions in other countries not covered. 

To assess plan variety, I found the average number of local eSIM packages that each company offers per country.

I did not include regional or global plans that include the country in question, as this would complicate the data.

I reached out to each company’s customer service to ask a question about the eSIM I purchased, noting the time I reached out and the time I received a human response. 

Ratings were based on response times:

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ = less than 2 minutes ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ = 2 to 10 minutes ⭐️⭐️⭐️ = 10 to 30 minutes ⭐️⭐️ = 30 minutes to 24 hours ⭐️ = No response

Ease of setup is a subjective rating based on my experience setting up each eSIM. 

I imagined how likely it would be for me to get confused if I were setting an eSIM up for the first time with no prior experience or technical know-how. 

The main things I looked for were:

☑️ If the eSIM provider offered an app in addition to their website. ☑️ User-friendliness and functionality of the app and/or website.  ☑️ How hard it was to find the setup instructions.  ☑️ How clear the instructions were, and if they included screenshots and video guides. ☑️ How buggy the setup process was.

The ratings I used were:

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ = Amazing ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ = Pretty good ⭐️⭐️⭐️ = Average ⭐️⭐️ = Harder than necessary ⭐️ = Sucky

Overall, this metric does not mean much. 

Most eSIM companies state how many “regions” or “destinations” they cover, but this is not the same as the number of countries. 

I could not find a definition of what they consider a “region” or “destination”. 

Many eSIM providers state that they cover 200+ destinations, but there are only 195 recognized countries in the world.

Just know that most eSIM companies will cover most of the places you want to go.

I used the Speedtest app to test each eSIM in Chiang Mai, Thailand. 

You can find a screenshot of each speed test on the individual review pages for each eSIM. 

I decided not to include a speed test rating in this comparison because the actual speed doesn’t really depend on travel eSIM company — it comes down to the local carrier in a particular region. Since I only tested speeds in one city, it’s not fair to generalize the results worldwide. 

Plus, I found that many eSIM providers use the same local carriers, so you may see similar plans across multiple eSIM companies.

In the end, all eSIMs had data speeds fast enough to stream Youtube videos, which is enough for most travelers.

Overall, I found Airalo to be the best option for Normie Travelers and Holafly the best option for Data Hogs. 

In certain countries — especially in Southeast Asia — Nomad offered more plan variety than Airalo for Normie Travelers. 

These are the three companies I plan to use on my future trips. 

As I mentioned throughout this guide, there may be certain destinations where a different company has the best deal.

But in these cases, the price difference is usually minimal. And to me, it’s not worth the hassle of comparing prices across 10+ companies just to save a couple bucks. 

The whole point of using an eSIM is convenience. You save time not having to hunt down a physical SIM upon arrival. But if you’re wasting an hour comparing eSIM prices, you lose that convenience factor. 

I recommend choosing one or two companies you like best and sticking with them. Many offer rewards points, so by staying loyal to one company, you can often earn discounts on future eSIMs. 

I hope you found this experiment helpful — it took months to put together, so if you want to say “ Thanks, Mitch! ”, I’d be thrilled if you purchased your eSIM using our affiliate buttons on this page. This helps support my nerdy travel experiments at no extra charge to you. 🤓

Mitch is your typical nomadic backpacker. Or at least, he was . But after stopping in Colombia to take “one week” of salsa lessons, his life took a sharp left turn. He met a cute Colombian girl in dance class, fell in love, and got married. Over half a decade has passed since he left his career to travel the world as a digital nomad, and he’s never looked back.

Nowadays, he’s the blogger behind Project Untethered — where he runs an awesome email newsletter and Youtube channel teaching adventure-craved wanderlusters how to escape the rat race, earn money from anywhere, and build an “untethered life”.

His advice has been featured in Forbes, USA Today, Yahoo, MSN, Reader’s Digest, Condé Nast Traveler, and more.

Mitch's Travel Recommendations: Travel Planning Resources - Everything you need to plan your trip on one convenient page. Going Cheap Flights Newsletter - Get flight deals from your airport up to 90% off sent straight to your inbox. Safetywing Insurance - This cheap travel insurance has saved me over $15,000 in medical bills. Booking.com - Book accommodation without adding your credit card (in case you need to cancel). Trusted House Sitters - Take care of pets in exchange for free (sometimes luxury) accommodation. Flexjobs - Find remote jobs without having to sift through crappy ones. Skillshare - Free trial to take unlimited classes that teach digital nomad skills. Wise - Send and receive money abroad cheaply (great for freelancers).

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Complete Guide: Best eSIM For International Travel

by Melissa Giroux | Last updated Jan 24, 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, especially in the United States.
• 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 170 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 130 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 32 countries. It’s interesting because they come with unlimited data.

They recently released a new feature – make calls for up to 60 minutes and receive calls for up to 60 minutes

• Unlimited data, valid for 5 days for EUR 19
• Unlimited data, valid for 7 days for EUR 27
• Unlimited data, valid for 10 days for EUR 34
• Unlimited data, valid for 15 days for EUR 47
• Unlimited data, valid for 20 days for EUR 57
• Unlimited data, valid for 30 days for EUR 69
• Unlimited data, valid for 60 days for EUR 87
• Unlimited data, valid for 90 days for EUR 99

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 one plan that covers the United States, Canada, and Mexico :

• 6 GB, valid for 15 days for $54

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 12 countries.

Holafly only offers one plan in Asia for the time being.

• 8 GB, valid for 30 days for $47

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

MY TOP RECOMMENDATIONS

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BOOK HOSTEL ON HOSTELWORLD

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LEARN HOW TO START A TRAVEL BLOG

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A beginner’s guide to travel eSIMs: How to use eSIMs for travel

Table of contents, what is a travel esim, and why do i need one.

One of the latest innovations in travel tech, eSIMs are digital SIM cards embedded directly into the processors of mobile devices. Compatible devices come pre-equipped with an eSIM, so there’s no need to buy and install a card manually.

While eSIMs can be used at home, there are notable advantages to using eSIMs for travel. It’s super easy to switch between carriers and plans, which minimizes service interruptions while you’re globetrotting.

Additionally, there’s no need to visit a store in person to get a new SIM card or buy online and wait for it to be shipped to your home. eSIM cards can be purchased online and activated immediately using a QR from your carrier. Plus, there’s a huge range of plans offered by many different providers, giving you plenty of control over how much you pay based on the travel data you think you’ll need.

Are there any drawbacks to using an eSIM for travel?

Not all carriers support eSIMs, and not all devices are eSIM compatible. However, eSIM usage is growing dramatically, so mobile users can expect to see these limitations decline in the coming years.

Where can I buy a travel eSIM?

• Airalo (200+ countries, regional plans available)
• Flexiroam (200+ countries and territories, regional plans available)
• Nomad (165+ countries, regional plans available)
• GlobaleSIM (150+ countries, regional plans available)
• Ubigi (200+ countries)
• Maya Mobile (190+ countries, regional plans available)
• BNESIM (200+ countries, regional plans available)
• eSIM2Fly (100+ countries, regional plans available)
• GigSky (190+ countries, regional plans available)
• RedteaGO (100+ countries, regional plans available)

How to deactivate your regular SIM and activate your eSIM for travel

Before activating your new eSIM card, deactivate your regular SIM card. This will protect your personal data and help you avoid getting hit with unnecessary roaming charges.

Deactivating a SIM card is pretty easy. Here’s how it works:

• Back up your phone, including contacts, messages, and any other data.
• Notify your mobile carrier about your travel plans and ask that your SIM card be temporarily deactivated. Your carrier will guide you through the process.
• Once deactivated, remove your SIM card from your phone and store it in a safe place.

Activating an eSIM for travel is even easier than activating/deactivating a physical SIM card. Usually, you’ll need to contact your travel plan carrier and get a QR code. Scan this into your phone to activate the eSIM.

The following tips may help if you’re having trouble knowing how to use an eSIM when traveling:

• Make sure your device is eSIM compatible
• Check your wireless connection. Restart your phone if necessary.
• Re-scan your carrier’s QR code
• Contacting your carrier for help

Check your network coverage and device compatibility

With travel eSIMs, you can stay connected almost anywhere in the world. Many new cell phone models are eSIM compatible. If you have an old phone, you may need to upgrade to a newer model to begin using eSIMs for travel. Check out a list of eSIM-compatible devices here .

eSIM plans piggyback on domestic carriers’ networks. To find out where you can get service in a given country, visit the network provider’s website or contact the network provider directly. If you’ve already landed, apps like OpenSignal (Android and iOS), LTE Discovery (Android), and Network Cell Info Lite (Android) provide info on network strength in your area and surrounding areas.

How much travel data do I need?

To get the most out of your travel eSIM, you’ll want to strategically plan your data usage. Up to 5GB of data is good if you don’t use your device often, while moderate users might want to be safe and go for a 10GB travel data plan. Look for higher data plans if you’re an active online gamer or stream a lot of high-quality videos.

Here are a few tips for minimizing your data usage while traveling:

• Connect to Wi-Fi whenever possible (airports, hotels, cafes, etc.). But consider using a VPN to prevent unauthorized access to your device and data.
• Disable automatic device updates and limit the number of apps that run in the background. Many phones make it easy to do this with data-saving mode.
• Don’t stream much music or video, or download files in advance to avoid streaming while you travel.
• Use data compression apps to reduce the size of web pages and images.
• Disable data roaming to avoid automatically using foreign networks.
• Go on airplane mode when you’re not using your device.

How to stay safe when using a travel eSIM

Compared to physical SIM cards, eSIM cards are much harder to hack because you can’t simply remove the card from a device.

Even though eSIMs reduce the risk of your SIM card getting lost or stolen, it’s still important to safeguard your personal data while abroad. One of the best ways to protect your personal data while using Wi-Fi is with a virtual private network (VPN). VPNs create a tunnel of sorts through which you can access the internet without your personal data being visible to others using the same Wi-Fi network.

Another great way to stay safe while using public Wi-Fi is to disable file sharing and AirDrop. Doing so makes it harder for nearby devices to access your files. Also, avoid accessing non-secured websites. Look for “https://” in the URL, which indicates that data is encrypted when being transferred between your device and the server.

Can I use an eSIM internationally?

Yes. Some eSIM plans offer service in multiple countries or regions (USA & Canada, Europe, Asia-Pacific, etc.). Others are country specific. Before you buy an eSIM, make sure it supports your destination country.

Can I get a global eSIM?

You can’t buy an eSIM card that works in every country, but you can buy an eSIM that offers service in multiple countries or regions. If you’re planning a trip around the world (sounds exciting!), you might need to get multiple eSIM plans and activate them separately as you travel.

Can I get a travel data plan on an eSIM card?

Yes, it’s possible to buy and activate a data-only eSIM travel plan on your phone. Although, if you want to do more than just access the internet on your device, you’ll need a full-service eSIM plan that also lets you text and make calls.

Why settle with a physical SIM card, when you can get a digital SIM card that you don’t have to stand in line at a store to buy and that you can activate and manage remotely? Use an eSIM to avoid the hassle of interrupted mobile service when traveling internationally.

You can’t yet use a travel eSIM with all phones and providers. But more and more eSIM options are popping up on the market, so stay ahead of the trends and start riding the wave.

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

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

By Brian X. Chen

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Step 1: Pick an eSIM

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

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

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

Step 2: Activate the eSIM Service

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Optional (but Important) Step: Protect Your Privacy

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

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

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

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

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

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

Bottom Line

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

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

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

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Going Old School: Retro-photography apps that mimic the appearance of analog film formats make your digital files seem like they’re from another era. Here’s how to use them .

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  Price for a 3GB eSIM for USA: $2.99

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: $10.80 Price for a 3GB eSIM for USA: $10.80

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  Price for a 3GB eSIM for USA: $11

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 $5 or 15GB for $25 Price for a 3GB eSIM for USA: No 3GB plan available; 1GB for $5 or 15GB for $25

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.

A version of this story was originally published on Condé Nast Traveller UK

Nomadic Matt's Travel Site

Travel Better, Cheaper, Longer

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.

Need Help Finding Activities for Your Trip? Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace where you can find cool walking tours, fun excursions, skip-the-line tickets, private guides, and more.

Ready to Book Your Trip? Check out my resource page for the best companies to use when you travel. I list all the ones I use when I travel. They are the best in class and you can’t go wrong using them on your trip.

Got a comment on this article? Join the conversation on Facebook , Instagram , or Twitter and share your thoughts!

Disclosure: Please note that some of the links above may be affiliate links, and at no additional cost to you, I earn a commission if you make a purchase. I recommend only products and companies I use and the income goes to keeping the site community supported and ad free.

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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!

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.

HolaFly is one of the major eSim shops, providing a 4G connection to more than 160 destinations. Their website is very user-friendly and comes with 24/7 WhatsApp customer service, enabling you to receive assistance with questions or troubleshooting issues quicker. HolaFly offers plans that range from 5-90 days and is widely known for its unlimited data packages. This is a pro for those who chew through large quantities of data during their travels. 

The downside to this is there are limited set data plans available. This means those who do not need so much data will be paying a higher premium for a service they might not necessarily use to its full extent. For example, plans for the U.S. all include unlimited data with no option to opt for less.

A 30-day eSim plan with unlimited data in the U.S. will cost $64 USD. On the contrary, other countries such as Columbia have just one plan on offer at 6GB for 15 days costing $44 USD. If you don’t want to worry about keeping an eye on your data usage, HolaFly is a good option. However, if you want a range of different eSim packages to choose from HolaFly will have limited options. 

HolaFly is perfect for travellers needing to entertain themselves on long bus rides or upload daily Instagram shots to ensure loved ones at home are sufficiently jealous. 

Regional packages are available for: Europe (32 countries), North America (3 countries), South America (15 countries), the United Kingdom (3 countries), and the Caribbean (16 countries).

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

Unlimited internet packages available for a wide range of countries, data share available on some eSim plans

Some reviews mention slow internet speeds, limited plans for data packages that are not unlimited

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

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.

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

Aiden Freeborn

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Should Travelers Use eSIMs? International Travel E-sim How To and Tips

It was early in 2023 when we realized: eSIMs are a game changer for travelers.

We were having dinner with a group of experienced travelers who have been all over the world and have traveled through several decades. They could speak of the many changes that they’ve experienced regarding how travel used to be different without technology.

Back before the internet, we had physical guidebooks and maps. We talked and marveled how the smartphone replaced the need to carry multiple devices like a camera, walkman, map, compass, phone, etc… and even pay for things?!

E-SIMs represent another important milestone in travel and technology and a reminder of how interconnected our world is.

E-SIMs keep us connected no matter where we go.

Read on to learn: – The benefits of eSIMs for travelers – How to use an eSIM and important tips

Updated: March 2024. Originally published: February 2023. Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of our links, we may receive a small commission, at no additional cost to you. We received complimentary eSIM plans from Airalo and Nomad in order to test their services. All opinions are our own.

Table of Contents

Why eSIMs are great for travelers

In the following short video, we share the key highlights and important things to know about using eSIMs for travel.

Explore Airalo international eSIM plans here >

Because our smartphones have become our most essential device, it’s almost necessary these days to have a data connection, especially when we’re somewhere unfamiliar.

Once you cross international borders, your cellular and data plan may no longer work.

When arriving in a new country, you’ll most likely have no connection (unless you paid for a special data plan or have some sort of special benefit from your home cellular company). Typically, this traveler will then try to find a WIFI connection to be able to use apps like check email or use messaging (like Whatsapp or iMessage).

The traveler would then seek out a local store that sold SIM cards and data plans for that host country. Sometimes this is relatively painless, like in Thailand or Vietnam where there are merchants in the airport that can help you install a physical SIM.

In other places, getting a lcoal SIM card can be more challenging, and it doesn’t help if you don’t know the language.

Since eSIMs are digital , you can work with a company (usually through a website or app), purchase an eSIM and data plan, install it on your phone, and then activate the plan whenever you’re ready to use it.

There’s no need to speak with anyone. Plans are clearly laid out and the installation and activation process is fairly straightforward.

This means you can land at your international destination and be instantly connected to data . (Caveat: You’d need to activate your plan before departing which would start the “countdown timer” so to speak.)

This is probably sparking a lot of great questions so let’s see if we can answer that straight away.

TIP: If you have our WorldWide Connectivity course (also available inside our Membership), review the modules on eSIM Best Practices and Managing Data Usage to get the most out of your eSIM!

What are eSIMs?

This is not a tech blog so I’m not going to use confusing terminology. I want to make sure that when my mom reads this post, I can meet her where she’s at and she’ll be able to teach her friends and siblings about eSIMs.

Short answer: an eSIM is a digital version of a SIM card . Remember those?

Sim cards are physical cards that hold specific cellular information so that your phone could work on a specific network.

Every SIM card is assigned a phone number and works on a specific network.

This means if I have the phone number 123-456-7890 and have a T-mobile SIM card, I can take that SIM card and insert it into any other compatible, unlocked phone. Then anyone can call me at 123-456-7890, regardless of what phone I use.

Again, SIM cards are physical. There are different sizes and your phone will require a specific size.

Thanks to evolving technology, we now have eSIMs – a digital version – which can be added to smartphones that have the eSIM feature.

E-SIM technology started to arrive in phones back in 2016. Most of the major phone companies now have dual-sim capability, meaning they can use both physical SIM cards and eSIM.

Check out Airalo’s website for a comprehensive list of what smartphones have eSIM capability.

In fact, one of the most unique features about eSIM technology is that you can run up to two SIMs on your phone at the same time! We’ll explain what this means and what this is in more detail later in the post.

Currently I’m using an iPhone 13 and I have both a physical spot to insert a SIM card, but I also have the ability to add eSIMs to my phone.

At the time of writing this, I’m currently using an eSIM with T-mobile for my US phone number, and I’ve installed a separate travel eSIM to use in SE Asia. And the best part: I’m using both at the same time!

What is required of my smartphone to use eSIMS for travel?

• You’ll need a smartphone that’s has eSIM capability . Most newer phones (circa 2018) are, and you can do a quick web search to check if your phone has eSIM capability.
• Your phone needs to be unlocked . Because eSIMs work with different networks (outside of your main one), you’ll need your phone to be unlocked. This usually means that you’ve fully paid off your phone (no payment plans) and went through an unlock process with your carrier. Again, a quick web search on “how to unlock my phone with  insert name of your carrier ” will give you the steps you need to do this.You cannot take advantage of eSIMs for travel if you do not meet these two requirements. 

Why would someone use an eSIM vs. a SIM card?

eSIMs are extremely convenient .

eSIMs can be bought and installed via an app/website without needing to navigate the process in a foreign country where there may be a language barrier.

Additionally, there’s no physical installation required and no tiny card to keep track of. You can’t lose an eSIM  because it’s not physical.

Oh, and there’s no long term commitment . These are prepaid, use it or lose it plans.

This also means you can change between different eSIM companies like Airalo and Nomad whenever it works best with your travel plans.

What happens if you use up your data, need to add more, or renew a plan?

Again, the process is extremely convenient. You can track your data usage via the app of the eSIM company you’re using.

You can top up through the app or purchase a new plan (if needed). It’s clear and straightforward.

Gone are the days when you purchased a card with a funky number code that you needed to enter into your phone to add more data.

Cost Comparison of eSIMs vs. International Phone Plans

When traveling, you get better value using an eSIM than going with your regular cellular network.

If you use a US cellular company and try to look at international data plans, you’ll be amazed at the limited availability and how much they cost. It’s expensive for very little data.

Compared to getting a regular SIM and data plan in another country OR purchasing a data plan and eSIM through another company, US phone company international plans almost always cost more.

Here’s an example comparison between T-Mobile (my US cellular network) vs. Arialo and Nomad , two eSIM companies. For this example we’ll consider options for data access in Vietnam for 30 days :

*Only one country included in plan. **Regional plan. Airalo offers access to 13 18 SE Asian countries. ***Regional plan. Nomad offers access to 6 SE Asian countries + Australia and New Zealand.

As you can see above, it’s not even close!

T-Mobile wants you to pay more , limits you to one country, giving you less data and less time to use it.

Check out Airalo travel eSIMs here >

How we used eSIMs on our Southeast Asia Trip

When we were planning our trip for Southeast Asia, we knew we would be in Singapore, Vietnam, and Thailand. Not wanting to pay for individual data plans, we were looking for an Asia eSIM. Thankfully these exist!

We tried using eSIMs from Airalo and Nomad. Both offered region-based plans (in addition to individual country-specific plans).

On my phone, I’m able to use two cellular/data networks at once . It can either be two active eSIMs OR the combination of one eSIM and a regular SIM card.

This means I have two phone plans active on one phone, at the same time. Additionally, for data usage, I can set which apps use which specific data from any of my active SIMs .

Example: While traveling in SE Asia, I am using my eSIM from T-Mobile with my US phone number AND I’ve downloaded and installed an eSIM from a travel eSIM company.

My current T-Mobile plan gives me unlimited data at 2G speeds along with free texting to the US. Thanks, T-Mobile!

The downside is 2G is painfully slow . Bummer, T-Mobile!

2G speeds are enough to download and reply to some emails, ask Google a question using a browser, or lightly use Google Maps (if you’ve downloaded an offline map ). It’s terrible for downloading and uploading content – unusable for social media, streaming, etc.

Thanks to the Asialink eSIM from Airalo , I’m able to keep using my regular T-Mobile data plan for my US phone number , which I use mainly for texting. AND I can use the eSIM data for all other apps (Chrome, Gmail, Google maps, Facebook, Instagram, etc.).

They both work at the same time. As mentioned before, you can select which apps use data from which eSIM in your phone settings.

Important note: eSIM data plans DO NOT come with a phone number . This isn’t a deal breaker but it’s something to be aware of.

Because eSIMs only provide data connection (via a cellular network), you can use apps but you cannot make outgoing or incoming calls through your phone’s phone app.

YOU CAN, however, use VoIP (voice over Internet Protocol) apps like Whatsapp, Facetime, and Google Voice to make phone calls and send messages . We’ll dive into this more later in the post.

Are eSIMs better than portable WIFI devices?

Both an eSIM and a portable WIFI device exist to connect to a local cellular data network, providing you with data for your devices.

I think portable WIFI companies will have a hard time competing with eSIMs.

Here’s why:

For travelers, packing space is valuable. A portable WIFI device is an extra, physical device you need to carry, charge, and deal with. An eSIM allows you to pack light, as it takes up no physical space.

A portable WIFI device is only necessary if you have an older phone that does not support eSIM technology.

Most of us will upgrade our phones at some point and have eSIM capability, which means a portable WIFI device will become antiquated technology.

And you might ask: “But what if I have other devices that need to be connected by data on the road like a laptop or a tablet?”

Most phones have the ability to turn into a mobile hotspot. This way, you can then share your eSIM data plan with other devices. (More on this below.)

Portable WIFI devices and eSIMs both use a cellular network, however, the user experience is vastly different. In my experience, the eSIM apps are easier to use .

How much data do I need? What eSIM data plan should I purchase?

This is like asking how much food do you need. The answer is highly dependent upon the person.

During our time in SE Asia, I was surprised that a 5GB plan over 30 days was more than we needed . In that time, I used about 2.75 GB. Michelle used less than 2 Gigs on her plan.

So when I renewed my plan for another 30 days, I got the 3GB plan.

One of the reasons why you probably don’t need as much data as you might think: So many places offer free WIFI now.

A big change over the 7 years we’ve been traveling to Asia is availability of WiFi. I would argue it’s easier to get connected to WIFI in rural Asia than it is in rural Italy or France.

When on prepaid/capped data plans, I’m much more intentional about when and how I use certain apps. I got into the habit of only using data-hungry apps like Instagram or Facebook when connected to WIFI.

You can customize your phone settings to specify which apps can run only on WiFi vs. cell data, so it happens automatically.  (More on this below.)

If you don’t care how much money you spend and staying connected is important for your work or peace of mind, go with a bigger data plan. This way, you won’t have to carefully track your usage. To each their own.

If you’re more budget minded (like us), there’s usually a “Goldilocks” plan. You know, not too small or too large.

For most travelers, we estimate that 3GB for 30 days will be enough (5GB for extra peace of mind).

If you’re a social media influencer, or you need to make video calls when WiFi is unavailable/not fast enough, or maybe you’re just addicted to watching Netflix on the road, then maybe you’ll want more data.

TIP: If you have our WorldWide Connectivity course (also available inside our Membership), use the lesson “How Much Data Do I Need?” to help determine this for yourself. We also recommend reviewing the modules on E-SIM Best Practices and Managing Data Usage to get the most out of your eSIM.

Browse Airalo eSIM data plans here >

How to choose an eSIM plan

Does the company offer coverage/availability in the countries I’m traveling to? Especially check availability in the places you’ll be spending the most time in.

How much data do I want and for what period of time? This should come second to the country-specific availability.

Look at your travel itinerary and find a data plan that covers the number of days you’ll be traveling. Unfortunately, there are no custom plans so you may need to renew for longer trips.

Having coverage and unused data and dates is better than not having connection IMO.

With eSIM plans, you either use your data or lose it. Unused data does not carry over if you renew a plan.

What is the cost? This will differ between eSIM companies. Costs are based on the amount of data and the duration you’ll have access to the plan.

Remember, these are prepaid plans and you can customize based on your needs. Maybe you go with a region specific plan at first and then a country specific plan for the second half of your itinerary.

You can also use an Airalo eSIM data plan  for one part of your trip and a Nomad eSIM data plan for another part. There’s nothing that prevents you from going between different eSIM apps and companies.

How Do eSIMs Work?

I’m not going to lie here. I don’t know technical aspects that make this magic happen.

All I know is how to get it to work for us while we travel:

• Go to an eSIM company’s website OR download their app.
• Find the plan you want and make your purchase using a credit card.
• You’ll need to create an account and login.
• Follow the instructions sent in the confirmation email (or the app) to install the eSIM to your phone.
• Activate the plan using the app when you’re ready to use it. This initial activation requires being connected to WiFi.
• Go to the cellular settings on your phone and select the apps that you want to your new plan to work with.
• Start using your phone like you normally would.*

*See our tips section on best practices later in this post.

Once the eSIM is set up, track your data usage and adjust your app data settings as needed.

For example, I started off by not giving Instagram of Facebook access to my eSIM Asia data plan. Then, having used it for a couple of weeks and noticing I had plenty of data left in my timeline, I turned data for those apps back on.

The eSIM companies we used for our SE Asia trip are NOT cellular companies. The mobile network our phones connected to wasn’t always the same, even within the same country.

That’s because the eSIM companies have contracts with different cellular networks in each country . Your installed eSIM will connect to whichever local network you’re physically closest to.

This means the performance and coverage of an eSIM data plan will vary by location . This might be one of the biggest cons, not knowing exactly how good your coverage will be while traveling.

Similar to using a cellular network in your home country, cellular coverage is most likely the best in urban areas , spotty in semi-urban/rural areas, and sometimes non-existent in really rural or remote areas.

Using your phone as a mobile hotspot: Another reason why Digital Nomads love eSIMs

Our livelihoods as digital nomads are connected (pun intended) to our internet connection.

One of the top advantages to using a cellular data network compared to a WIFI network is that your coverage is a lot more vast.

WIFI networks are meant to cover small square areas. They are strong within that certain area.

Cellular networks cover vast areas. Though they will never be as fast as WIFI or LAN connections, cell networks can get you connected to the internet in more locations .

For example, if we wanted to do work on a beach in Vietnam or Thailand, we could use the eSIM data plan and turn on the mobile hotspot feature on our phone .

With the mobile hotspot, we can connect a laptop or tablet to our phone as if it were a wifi router and then get some work done.

Should we expect blazing fast performance? No.

Is our work time in this scenario limited to the battery life on our phone running as a hotspot? Yes.

This is just an example of how one could use a mobile hotspot setup with an eSIM data plan.

As many of you know, one of our side businesses is that we help host online cooking classes with our business partner in Italy. This means we host live classes through Zoom and need good internet.

As we’ve traveled in different countries (or even at home in the US), the power can go out and so too, the WIFI connection.

Our back up plan when we lose wifi has been the data plans on our cellphones , using that mobile hotspot for data connection.

Again, it’s not the best connection. But will it get the job done? Yes.

For Digital Nomads or anyone working remotely , being connected to the internet is always better than not being connected at all.

Tips for using an eSIM while traveling

Purchasing regional plans vs. individual country plans  

Compare data plans and availability for each eSIM company carefully to find the one that best fits you.

Nomad, for example, has great regional AND individual country options. Airalo has great regional options but their individual country plans are limited. Both have similar offerings but the pricing and data amounts vary.

Purchase your plan and install your eSIM before arriving at your international destination. eSIMs can be installed on your smartphone without starting the prepaid plan.

Often you’ll have a set period, like 30 days from your purchase date, to activate and start your plan. It’s only when you “activate” your plan that the data can be used and the countdown begins on the plan’s duration.

But here’s an important reminder: activating your eSIM plan requires a data connection .

Check out Airalo international eSIM plans >

The best way to activate your plan

When you are ready to start your plan, connect to WIFI. This could be on the plane (if that’s available to you). More likely, it will be in the form of free WIFI offered by the airport when you arrive.

You can activate your plan early, before you even depart for your destination. This might be a good option if you’re unsure when you’ll have WIFI next and you want to make sure your eSIM is up and running as soon as you land at your destination.

• Open your eSIM app and go to your plan.
• Tap “Activate.” Follow any instructions in the app. Done!

• Check your cellular data settings in your phone.
• Make sure the eSIM has been installed and turned on.
• Turn on data roaming.

Troubleshooting if your eSIM doesn’t seem to be working

Instructions or troubleshooting documentation provided by the eSIM company will be in their confirmation emails, within the app, or on their website. They know things can happen and provide good instructions on what to try when something doesn’t work properly.

If the eSIM was working in one place and doesn’t seem to be working after crossing borders or arriving from an airplane, try these things:

• Turn your eSIM off and back on. (Don’t uninstall though.)
• Turn your phone off and back on.
• Double check to make sure your plan hasn’t expired or reached the data limit.

Get familiar with the Cellular settings in your smartphone  

Phone settings is an important area to explore. Here you can (and should) label your eSIM. I suggest labeling it with the name of the company and plan you purchased (i.e. Airalo AsiaLInk) so you can remember which eSIM you’re changing settings for.

Next, you can set which eSIM/SIM is your primary or default.

You can also turn off or on eSIMs here. For example, Michelle wanted to make sure she wasn’t charged for any international calls or texts with her AT&T account, so she turned that SIM off completely while traveling.

Finally, the Cellular settings area is also where you can adjust which apps you will allow to use cellular data. More on that below.

Managing data usage  

Your smartphone will have settings to determine which apps can be used with cellular data and which apps you want to limit to WIFI use. 

You can even select which eSIM/SIM to use, if you have multiple on the phone. 

Keep cellular data on for any travel apps that will be important to use in transit or away from WiFi. Apps that help you navigate, like Google Maps, or receive messages, like Whatsapp, are the ones we prioritize for cell data.

Remember to use the eSIM app to monitor your data usage.

Your phone monitors data usage as well, but we’ve found the eSIM apps to be a better indicator of usage since they’re the ones that will stop your plan when you use up the data.

To maximize your data allotment, be intentional about what apps you use when connected to WIFI.

Save big data usage, like streaming videos, engaging with social media apps, and talking with loved ones via video calls, for WIFI connection.

This simple, intentional method of using your apps is an easy way to save on your data usage. But if you paid for a big data plan, go to town and use whatever app you’d like on your eSIM data plan. You paid for lots of data – you should get your money’s worth.

Making local and international calls while abroad using Whatsapp

As mentioned before, eSIMs typically don’t provide you with a usable phone number. This makes sense as usually phone numbers are network-specific and the eSIM can use a variety of networks. (If you have an eSIM that works in several different cities/countries, you would need a different phone number in each country.)

You may think that not having a phone number would prevent you from using your smartphone to make calls while abroad. But that’s not the case!

You can make local calls in the country you’re visiting using Whatsapp. This app uses data to make phone calls over the internet.

As long as you have a Whatsapp account, just open the app, go to calls, and dial the number you want to call using the country code and number.

(You can call any phone number through Whatsapp, however, in order for someone to receive messages through Whatsapp, they do need to have the Whatsap app on their phone.)

Can I use my eSIM data plan for iMessage, Facetime, Google Voice, Facebook messenger, etc..?

Yes! All of those apps run on data. You should be able to use any of them without any issues with your eSIM data plan.

Did we have any issues with our eSIMs while traveling?

There were a couple of things we learned using eSIMs for the first time.

When we landed in different countries via airplane, the data connection took some time. It didn’t always connect instantaneously once we turned off airplane mode.

Once, one of our eSIMs wasn’t connecting at all after we landed in a new country. There were no error messages or instructions, just the “spinning wheel of death” where the network name and data bars should be.

Eventually, we tried turning off the phone and turning it back on. This seemed to work, but it would have been nice if there was some kind of notification prompting us to reset the cellular network connection.

One final suggestion for travelers using eSIMs:

Install your eSIM and activate your plan before arriving at your destination. Pro: You’ll land at your destination and theoretically you’ll be connected to cellular data. Cons: You might start using up your plan a little earlier than you wanted.

Install your eSIM before you depart and then activate your plan using a WIFI connection after arriving at your destination. Pro: You’ll have your eSIM ready to go and you won’t start your plan until you absolutely need to. It’s a running clock from the point you start. Cons: You’ll need to find a WIFI connection in transit to make this happen.

Learn more about Airalo international eSIMs for travel >

Airalo Discount Code

If you’re going to try Airalo eSIMs for the first time, they gave us a referral code that will get you $3 off your first eSIM data plan.

Once you sign up, use our Airalo Discount Code: MICHEL3784 on your first purchase.

We’ll both get a $3 credit for Airalo plans.

Travel eSIM Review Conclusion

Whether for digital nomad internet access or general travel use, we are eSIM converts! We will definitely be using eSIMs for travel from here on out.

We will still rely heavily on wifi at our accommodations. But we’ve tried mobile hotspots in the past as a back up to wifi, and international eSIM plans are likely to replace them as an essential travel tool for us.

Let us know if you have questions about eSIMs for international travel.

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Michelle, we are currently traveling in western Europe and are using a regional Airalo as our eSIM. We turned off data to our home-based, physical T-Mobile SIM, but keep it active for voice and text. That way we remain connected to family in the US. The eSIM basically roams on selected networks – mostly vodaphone and NOS. What is odd is that I can be on Vodaphone and my husband will be assigned to the NOS network, although we are standing next to each other. We also noticed that LTE is as fast as it gets – never 4 G or 5 G which is pretty available throughout the EU countries. Like you, we purchased 5 Gigs for the first 30 days, but only used 2, so we downgraded to the 3 Gig plan for the second month. Turns out that the GPS on Google maps sips data. I wrote down how to activate the eSIM for future use as sometimes the generic iPhone instructions were less than clear. This is a very affordable way to easily access data and avoid the use of country specific SIM cards!

Can I use E-sim cards with a locked phone ?

Do E-sims work well in Vietnam ? Any in particular you recommend for Vietnam ?

Denise, that’s a great question and we’ll be sure to update the post to better clarify. The phone does need to be unlocked in order to use an eSIM from a company that’s not your cell service provider.

Yes, our eSIMs have worked great in Vietnam – you’ll find more details about this on our new Asia esim review post . Both Airalo and Nomad have worked well for us, so I would choose whichever one has a cheaper plan for your needs at the time.

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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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If there have been changes in your plans and you no longer need your Holafly eSIM, we will provide you with a full refund .

If you purchased the eSIM and it turned out to be incompatible with your device, we will provide you with a full refund .

If your eSIM doesn't work due to an issue with Holafly or the network infrastructure of the destination country has problems and is unstable, we can offer you a full or partial refund .

International eSIM

Stay connected wherever you go.

With Holafly’s eSIM, enjoy internet connection on every adventure and forget about expensive roaming bills upon your return.

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Unlimited data

Get unlimited data plans at multiple destinations.

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Travel and stay connected without roaming or surprise bills.

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Keep your local SIM card to receive calls.

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Purchase and setup your eSIM in minutes.

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Purchase your Holafly eSIM with added peace of mind. You have up to 6 months to request a refund.

How does Holafly’s eSIM work?

Check that your device is esim-compatible and buy your data plan..

Your phone must be compatible with eSIM. After verifying, look for your destination and buy a data plan.

Follow the installation instructions

Please check the instructions email we sent you upon purchasing your eSIM to complete the installation and activation process.

Get online right after landing. Start using your data plan as soon as you arrive at your destination

Your phone will automatically connect to the internet network upon arrival.

Enjoy reliable and affordable internet in your trips. We get you covered.

Enjoy unlimited data while traveling to numerous destinations worry-free. Learn more

Keep using your favorite apps

Get that safe ride home, find that great restaurant, and pin the local attractions, all while staying connected with your loved ones.

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Looking for a local phone number while abroad? Get one in select destinations to make and receive calls or for security checkpoints with your bank. Learn more

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In need of assistance? Our 24/7 chat support is just a message away to keep you connected and help you with everything you need.

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Connect to the best networks at your destination and get internet that’s both reliable and fast

Enjoy dual SIMs

Enjoy the flexibility of our digital eSIM while keeping the option to use your original SIM as usual whenever you need it.

Enjoy Unlimited Data in selected destinations with Holafly’s eSIM! You can stay connected easily and avoid the hassle of searching for a local data plan. Check the coverage of the countries where we offer unlimited data and travel with peace of mind knowing that you won’t run out of data during your trip.

Connectivity may vary according to each countrie´s networks and coverage

Make and receive calls

The Europe eSIM allows you to use mobile data and make calls. It includes an Austrian (+43) phone number to make calls for up to 60 mins and receive calls for up to 60 mins.

you’ll get a local phone number in selected destinations!

Holafly is the most recommended International eSIM: check yourself.

DON’T stress about your phone service when you travel abroad! I used Holafly to travel home to California this year. The instructions were super easy to follow and I had no problems with the service for the whole 20 days that I used it. It was nice not to worry about how much my phone company was going to charge me for service abroad.

Karen Christensen

Excellent service and when I needed help, the help was there.

Paul Elwood

A complicated request was solved urgently within 24 hours of traveling. They are wonderful and I recommend it to everyone. Thank you HolaFly team!

Ricardo Alonso

I have used your Sim for my trip to the United States! I recommend it 100%. Thank you very much for your service.

Emanuela Salermo

Travelers who trust us worldwide

Travel the world responsibly with Holafly, and let’s say goodbye to plastic!

By using eSIMs, we can eliminate the environmental impact associated with physical SIM cards production, packaging, and distribution. Learn more.

Zero plastic

Zero hassle, zero transport.

Holafly’s Commitment to Sustainability

At Holafly, we’re committed to reducing our environmental impact and becoming a carbon-neutral company by 2028. You can help us reach this goal by choosing to use our eSIM instead of a physical SIM card. By choosing Holafly’s eSIM, you can travel with peace of mind knowing that you are not only staying connected but also contributing to a more sustainable future.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I top up my eSIM?

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Do I have to activate data roaming on my device?

What is the speed that I will have with the Holafly eSIM?

Can I keep my WhatsApp number?

When will I receive my eSIM?

What smartphones have eSIM support?

Can I call and send SMS with my Holafly eSIM?

When do the days of my data plan start counting?

How can I get a refund?

Can I use my SIM card and Holafly eSIM at the same time?

How can I delete the Holafly eSIM once I’ve used my data?

How many times can I use my eSIM card?

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International eSIM

Stay connected no matter where you travel with the EtravelSIM eSIM. Say goodbye to costly roaming charges and experience uninterrupted internet access on all your adventures.

Our Travel eSIM offerings come with the following features and benefits:

Keep your Existing SIM

Keep your existing number and enjoy the convenience of staying connected without the hassle of notifying everyone about a new one. Seamless communication and familiarity at your fingertips, wherever you go.

Unlimited Data

Experience the freedom of unlimited data while travelling internationally with eSIM. Stay connected without worrying about data caps or excessive charges, allowing you to enjoy your journey and easily share unforgettable moments.

Save on International Roaming

Unlock the freedom of international travel with eSIM, saving you from exorbitant international roaming charges while ensuring constant connectivity. Seamlessly switch between local networks and enjoy affordable and hassle-free communication wherever you roam.

Easy to Buy

Hassle-free online purchase, instant activation, and no need to wait for physical SIM cards. Enjoy seamless connectivity on your adventures with just a few clicks, simplifying your travel experience.

How to start using the Service?

Experience the convenience of purchasing an eSIM effortlessly. Click the button below, choose your desired country and plan, and quickly complete the payment process.

Upon completing your purchase, expect to receive your eSIM QR code via email within 15 minutes, accompanied by detailed instructions for installation. Get ready to enjoy seamless connectivity in no time.

Easily install the eSIM on your phone by following the straightforward instructions provided in the email. Simplify the setup process and start enjoying a seamless connection in no time.

Some of the benefits of utilizing EtravelSIM include:

Convenience

Purchasing a local SIM card can be cumbersome, hindered by language barriers and technical complexities. Swapping physical SIM cards becomes a tiresome ordeal. However, with an eSIM, you can effortlessly buy online, install it on your phone, and be ready to embark on your journey.

Say goodbye to the inconvenience of dealing with physical SIM cards and the challenges they entail. International eSIMs offer a streamlined solution, allowing you to purchase online hassle-free. Install the eSIM on your phone, and voila! You're all set to explore without limitations. Enjoy seamless connectivity, free from the constraints of language barriers and technical difficulties. Embrace the simplicity of international eSIMs and embark on your adventures with ease.

Connectivity

An eSIM-enabled device (IOS Devices, Android or otherwise) unlocks immediate connectivity no matter where you roam. Simply receive your eTravelSim profile, and within minutes, you'll be connected to the internet. Once installed, your international eTravelSim profile remains readily available, eliminating the hassle of physical SIM cards. Enjoy seamless access to unlimited data and bid farewell to international roaming concerns. Stay connected effortlessly with eTravelSim's eSIM, ensuring you're always connected and ready to explore the world.

Experience unparalleled global connectivity with our international eSIMs, spanning 70 countries around the world. Wherever your travels take you, our comprehensive coverage will keep you connected.

Whether exploring bustling cities, relaxing on tropical beaches, or venturing into remote destinations, our international eSIMs have you covered.

From popular tourist destinations to off-the-beaten-path locations, our expansive coverage ensures you can enjoy uninterrupted communication and data access. Stay connected seamlessly as you traverse borders without swapping SIM cards or relying on multiple providers.

No physical sim card

Gone are the days of waiting for physical SIM cards to arrive. With international eSIMs, there's no need to endure the anticipation. Since the number is allocated Over-The-Air (OTA), you can enjoy immediate connectivity without any delays.

Experience the convenience of instant number allocation with international eSIMs. Simply complete the process online, and your number is ready for use. No more anxiously waiting for a physical SIM card to arrive by mail. Embrace the freedom of instant activation and dive into seamless connectivity wherever you go. International eSIMs ensure you're always connected without the wait.

No need to look for a store

No more hunting for physical stores! With international eSIMs, there's no need to go through the hassle of finding a brick-and-mortar location. Say farewell to the time-consuming process of searching for a store, as your number is allocated on the fly.

Embrace the freedom of instant number allocation with international eSIMs. Activate your eSIM online, and your number is ready to go within moments. Say hello to effortless connectivity without the need to visit a physical store. Enjoy the convenience and flexibility of international eSIMs as you embark on your international travel.

Ideal for frequent traveler

For frequent travellers, international eSIMs offer unparalleled flexibility, allowing you to keep your existing number.

With international eSIMs, you can easily adapt your communication needs to your current location. Whether abroad or back in your home country, switch to a new number without the hassle of physical SIM cards or dealing with multiple providers.

Stay connected easily and maintain uninterrupted communication with colleagues, friends, and family, all while enjoying local rates and seamless network coverage.

What’s new ?

Introducing our new 10-day unlimited data plan for the usa, stay connected even better in europe: introducing 100 free minutes of local calls, introducing our new 1 gb plans for europe, uk, turkey, and italy: experience esim at a pocket-friendly price, some of the frequently asked questions are.

An eSIM, or embedded SIM, is a digital SIM card. Unlike traditional physical SIM cards that need to be inserted into a device, an eSIM is built into the device itself. This advancement allows users to choose a network provider, activate a plan, or switch carriers without needing a physical SIM card.

Here are some key points about eSIMs:

• Digital Profile: The eSIM can be programmed to adopt any mobile operator's profile, making it flexible for users to switch or choose their desired network provider.
• Convenience: As there's no need for a physical card, you can activate a cellular plan right from your device.
• Smaller Device Footprint: Without the need for a physical SIM slot in some cases, manufacturers can potentially save space in devices, allowing for more compact designs or room for other components.
• Support for Multiple Plans: Devices with eSIMs can support multiple cellular plans, which is especially useful for dual SIM operations where one might be a traditional SIM and the other an eSIM.
• Ideal for IoT: eSIM technology is particularly beneficial for the Internet of Things (IoT) devices, where small gadgets and tools can connect to cellular networks without the bulk of a physical SIM card.
• Travel: For frequent travelers, eSIMs can simplify the process of switching to a local carrier when abroad.

While eSIM technology offers several advantages, its adoption depends on mobile network operators supporting it. Many operators around the world have begun offering eSIM services, but availability might vary by region and provider.

To activate an eSIM on an iPhone, follow these general steps. Remember that the exact process might vary slightly depending on your carrier and iOS version. These are the steps you would typically follow:

• Check Compatibility:  Ensure your carrier supports eSIM activation and your iPhone model is compatible with eSIM technology.
• Obtain an eSIM QR Code:  Contact your carrier and request an eSIM activation QR code or activation details.
• Connect to Wi-Fi or Cellular Data:  Ensure your iPhone is connected to Wi-Fi or cellular data, as you'll need an internet connection for the activation process.
• Access Settings:  Open your iPhone's "Settings" app.
• Cellular (or Mobile) > Add Cellular Plan:  Navigate to "Cellular" (or "Mobile" in some regions) and tap on "Add Cellular Plan."
• Scan the QR Code:  If you received a QR code, use your iPhone's camera to scan the QR code provided by your carrier. Enter the necessary information manually if you received activation details without a QR code.
• Confirm and Activate:  Follow the on-screen instructions to confirm the details and activate the eSIM. You might be asked to restart your iPhone after activation.

Two versions of this product are available: one is data-only, while the other supports both voice and data services. The data-only version permits you to use data exclusively, whereas the other version allows you to make or receive calls, send or receive SMS messages, and use data.

Apple states that the iPhone 14 can accommodate up to eight eSIMs, with the capability to actively use two eSIMs simultaneously for calls, texts, and data usage. This allows for flexibility with eight distinct eSIMs on a single iPhone. However, the number of eSIMs supported can vary among different iPhone models.

Our company offers an extensive selection of prepaid data plans that are tailor-made to meet the unique needs of our customers. We provide data or voice plans that are specific to the country you will be visiting and your data usage requirements. Depending on your particular needs, you can purchase either a data or voice plan from us.

No, the iPhone 10 does not support an eSIM. The first apple phone to support an eSIM starts from iPhone XS and iPhone XR. All the previous models are not supported with eSIM.

To activate your eSim after purchasing eTravelSim, you will receive a QR code via email. You will need to scan this QR code using your phone's camera to install the eTravelSim onto your device. Once the installation is complete, your eSim should be activated and ready to use.

We provide number starting with +44. Your existing number will also be operational, you can choose any line for outgoing calls. Incoming calls can be received in both the numbers, since your existing number is also in use for calls you will not miss any incoming calls on your existing number.

The validity of your plan will vary depending on the specific plan you purchase. Each plan has its own designated validity period. When you select a plan, the corresponding validity duration will be clearly stated. It is important to review the details of each plan to understand the validity period associated with it. This will ensure that you have the appropriate timeframe to utilise the services included in your chosen plan. If you have any questions or need further clarification regarding the validity of a specific plan, please feel free to contact our customer support team. They will be more than happy to assist you.

We provide recharge options directly on our website for your convenience. However, if, for any reason, the recharge options are not available on the website, please don't hesitate to reach out to us for assistance. Simply send us an email at [email protected] , including your order number, and we will promptly top up your account. Our customer support team is committed to ensuring continued connectivity and will gladly assist you with any recharge-related queries or concerns.

List of countries covered are mentioned as part of the plan that you buy.

We offer the flexibility to purchase your eTravelSim either before your trip or after arriving at your destination. This allows you to choose the option that best fits your needs and preferences. Whether you prefer the convenience of having your eTravelSim ready to go before your trip or upon arrival, we're here to support you every step of the way.

Once you have installed your eTravelSim on a device, it will be activated and ready to use. We recommend that you choose the device you wish to use the eTravelSim carefully, as it cannot be transferred to another device once it is installed. This ensures that you have a secure and reliable connection on your chosen device throughout your travels.

You may check compatibility of your device for Esim by clicking here  Check Device Compatibility

No, Samsung Galaxy S10 does not support an eSIM.

No, only the P40 and P40 Pro models are compatible. 

Please mail [email protected] mentioning your order number, and the support team will provide you with the required details.

To check the balance of your Thailand eSIM, kindly dial *101# on your device. This will provide you with an up-to-date overview of your remaining balance. Please don't hesitate to contact our customer support team with further questions or assistance.

Our unlimited data plans are designed for individual use on a single device. Please note that these plans do not support mobile hotspot usage. The unlimited data provided is intended for personal use on your device only. If you require mobile hotspot functionality, we offer separate plans catering to this feature. Please explore our options to find the plan that best suits your needs. Should you have any further questions or require assistance, our customer support team is here to help.

Our eSIM plan provides unlimited data throughout the agreed-upon duration. However, the network provider may exercise their prerogative to implement a Fair Usage Policy to ensure optimal network performance for all users.

No, however, at ETravelSim, we take the security of our customers seriously. To protect our customers from fraudulent activities and maintain a safe shopping environment, we may request additional identity verification for transactions flagged by our payment gateway as suspicious or potentially fraudulent.

If your transaction is marked as such, we kindly ask you to cooperate with our verification process. This may involve asking for valid proof of identity, such as a government-issued ID or passport. Rest assured that all personal information will be handled securely per our privacy policy. We apologise for any inconvenience this may cause. It is an essential step to ensure the safety and integrity of our services. Thank you for your understanding and cooperation in this regard. If you have any questions or concerns regarding this process, please don't hesitate to contact our customer support team at  [email protected] .

Let customers speak for us

Immediate delivery of eSIM. Amazingly simple to install on iOS by taking a screenshot of the QR code then installing from photos. Was connected to online data within minutes and there’s an option to check usage by signing into account. Highly recommend and will definitely use again

I ordered an E-Travel SIM for South Africa. Initially I had real issues even following the steps in the email. The customer service was excellent, quick to respond and reach out. They did something at their end and the SIM began to work. Not only that, it had been 2 days into my 7 day all you can data package and it reset the ESim to a full 7 days! The data worked seemlessly throughout my trip in Cape Town, Franschoek and Stellenbosch. I would definitely use eTravelSim again for data in countries I do not have it in as part of my contract. I even ordered a 2nd ESim for another 5 days as extended my trip. The only thing I'd say is I only wish they had a 1 & 2 day option for all you need data.

This is my first travel experience with eSIM and after one I got from elsewhere stopped working suddenly I had no choice to get another one. Found this one via Google and paid next to nothing for it. 50 GB of data is much more than what i may need but it’s great not to have to worry about it. Getting good 5G connection, couldn’t be happier.

I recommend this service for roaming especially after being charged over six times at the airport for what I paid for this eSIM after getting to the airport and searching online. I am pleased with the ease and speed of getting this installed. Will be using the service again when I travel. Recommended.

I have to say what a great service this is. It is reasonably priced and really easy to set up. Just scan a QR code sent via email and that's it! Just wish I knew if this when I was in Australia last year. The other bonus is it hasn't gone to waste as it turns out the data still worked when I got back to the UK and I had the benefit of using 2 mobile providers depending on who had the best signal for the area.

I had to buy an Esim mainly for data during my trip to Turkey in February 2024 and I must admit I was extremely satisfied. During the installation phase, the ETravelSim team supported me very efficiently till late time until my eSIM become functional. Once installed, the unlimited version I bought worked perfectly for me during my whole trip with an excellent coverage. The service and the product are commendable. Thank you.

I have been using the eTravelSim for some time now and this was my 7th or 8th purchase although first time used in Saudi and like other countries it did not disappoint. Very easy to purchase and set up. Up and running within fire minutes. Also easy to just purchase on your phone and setup for others in your group of friends and family.

I was hesitant about getting this eSIM because compared to others it’s much cheaper and so I thought it may not work. I’m glad I went with this company as the eSIM worked perfectly while I was in Turkey. Easy to understand instructions and fast setup! Definitely recommend as product as described and most cost effective option I found. Very satisfied!

Prior touring India as a group, information was shared that eTravelSim would be a valuable asset to purchase. The options of packets to purchase were perfect, very reasonably priced, easy to follow downloading instructions and above all, the reliability and rest of mind while in India while using the service was everything the company promised would be. Perfect! 10/10.

This eSIM was recommended to me by a friend. The process of buying & downloading was easy & very quick. No problems encountered with overall reception etc while on holiday in South Africa. Good value for money.

All good. Customer service powered by human beings, eSIM caveman simple to install and activate, data plan works very well, you also get a local voice number, what else do you want?

I went to spain and the sim worked perfectly and immediately Receiving calls, using data it was all amazing I highly recommend this in future travels

Went on the web searched for a tourist sim came across eTravelsim and followed the simple steps to purchase and install the eSIM. Amazing how it only takes a few clicks and you’re up and running. As for the price for 15days it’s exceptional value and a cheap way to keep you connected. Highly recommend them.

The purchase was easy, everything was easy to understand, activation was also easy, I got confused (I am not the smartest person on earth, I cannot see the matrix!) sent an email and they answered to me right away and were always willing to help. As soon as I landed and turned everything I needed on (or off as applicable) I was able to get my cellphone working with the UK number and data. I purchased the e-sim at my home airpoort before boarding and it was all perfect. The only thing I would advise based on my experience and on how easy it all was, just do the activation process when you land in UK it will be easier that way, you will get it working (based on my experience) right away and it will take you a few minutes, so you can do it on one of the chairs while waiting for your luggage ot once you get it before going out

Getting eSim was easy as ordering food online. You select the plan you want, pay with Apple Pay and get connected in 5 mins. Amazing coverage and data speeds and i was pleased to see roaming was enabled when we went to Italy. I opted for unlimited data and it never had any issues. Highly recommended

You may check from the list of compatible handsets

iPhone 15, iPhone 15 Plus, iPhone 15 Pro, iPhone 15 Pro Max, iPhone 14, iPhone 14 Plus, iPhone 14 Pro, iPhone 14 Pro Max, iPhone 13, iPhone 13 mini, iPhone 13 Pro, iPhone 13 Pro Max, iPhone 12, iPhone 12 mini, iPhone 12 Pro, iPhone 12 Pro Max, iPhone 11 Dual SIM (nano-SIM and eSIM), iPhone 11 Pro, iPhone 11 Pro Max, iPhone XR, iPhone XS, iPhone XS Max, iPhone SE (2020)

Note: iPhone 11 is not compatible with existing micro-SIM cards.

Gemini PDA, Google Pixel 5, Google Pixel 2, Google Pixel 2XL, Google Pixel 3, Google Pixel 3 XL, Google Pixel 3a, Google Pixel 3a XL, Google Pixel 4, Google Pixel 4 XL, Google Pixel 4a, Google Pixel 4a5G, Huawei P40, Huawei P40 Pro, Motorola Razr 2019 Palm, Samsung Galaxy Fold, Samsung Galaxy Note20, Samsung Galaxy Note20 5G, Samsung Galaxy Note20 Ultra, Samsung Galaxy Note20 Ultra 5G, Samsung Galaxy S20Samsung Galaxy S20 5G, Samsung Galaxy S20 Ultra, Samsung Galaxy S20 Ultra 5G, Samsung Galaxy S20+, Samsung Galaxy S20+ 5G, Samsung Galaxy Z Flip, Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 5G

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Using Dual SIM with an eSIM

An eSIM is a digital SIM that allows you to use a cellular plan from your carrier without having to use a physical nano-SIM. Learn how to set up and use Dual SIM. 1

How can you use Dual SIM?

Use one number for business and another number for personal calls.

Add a local data plan when you travel outside of the country or region.

Have separate voice and data plans.

Both your phone numbers can make and receive voice and FaceTime calls and send and receive messages using iMessage, SMS, and MMS. 2 Your iPhone can use one cellular data network at a time.

If you want to use 5G with Dual SIM on iPhone 12, iPhone 12 mini, iPhone 12 Pro, or iPhone 12 Pro Max, make sure that you have iOS 14.5 or later .

What you need

An iPhone XS, iPhone XS Max, iPhone XR, or later with iOS 12.1 or later

A wireless carrier that supports eSIM

To use two different carriers, your iPhone must be unlocked . Otherwise, both plans must be from the same carrier. If a CDMA carrier provides your first SIM, your second SIM won't support CDMA. Contact your carrier for more information.

If you have an enterprise or corporate cellular service plan, check with your company administrator to see if they support this feature.

Set up another cellular plan on your iPhone

Use two phone numbers

Learn about Dual SIM status icons

Change your cellular data number, manage cellular settings.

Erase your eSIM

All iPhone models that support eSIM can have multiple eSIMs and use Dual SIM with two active SIMs at the same time.

You can use Dual SIM by using a physical SIM and an eSIM. iPhone 13 models and later also support two active eSIMs. iPhone models without a physical SIM tray support two active eSIMs.

Learn how to activate a cellular plan on an eSIM .

Label your plans

After your second plan is activated, label your plans. For example, you can label one plan Business and the other plan Personal.

You'll use these labels when you choose which phone number to use for making or receiving calls and messages, to designate a number for cellular data, and to assign a number to your contacts so you know which number you will use.

If you change your mind later, you can change your labels by going to Settings, tapping either Cellular or Mobile Data, and then tapping the number whose label you want to change. Then tap Cellular Plan Label and select a new label or enter a custom label.

Set your default number

Choose a number to use when you call or send a message to someone who isn't in your Contacts app. Choose which cellular plans you want to use for iMessage and FaceTime. You can choose either or both numbers.

On this screen, choose a number to be your default, or you can choose which number is to be used only for cellular data. Your other number will be your default. If you want your iPhone to use cellular data from both plans, depending on coverage and availability, turn on Allow Cellular Data Switching.

Use two phone numbers for calls, messages, and data

Now that your iPhone is set up with two phone numbers, here's how to use them.

Let your iPhone remember which number to use

When you call one of your contacts, you don't need to choose which number to use every time. By default, your iPhone uses the same number that you used the last time you called that contact. If you haven't called that contact, your iPhone uses your default number. You can also specify which number to use for your calls with a contact. Follow these steps:

Tap the contact.

Tap Preferred Cellular Plan.

Tap the number you want to use with that contact.

Make and receive calls

You can make and receive phone calls with either phone number.

When you're on a call, if the carrier for your other phone number supports Wi-Fi calling, you can answer incoming calls on your other number. When you're on a call using a line that isn't your designated line for cellular data, you need to turn on Allow Cellular Data Switching to receive calls from your other line. If you ignore the call and you have voicemail set up with your carrier, you’ll get a missed-call notification and the call will go to voicemail. Check with your carrier for Wi-Fi calling availability and find out whether additional fees or data usage applies from your data provider.

If you're on a call and your other line shows No Service, either your carrier doesn't support Wi-Fi calling or you don't have Wi-Fi calling turned on. 3 It could also mean Allow Cellular Data Switching is not turned on. When you're on a call, an incoming call on your other phone number will go to voicemail if you set up voicemail with your carrier. 4 However, you won't get a missed-call notification from your secondary number. Call Waiting works for incoming calls on the same phone number. To avoid missing an important call, you can turn on call forwarding and forward all calls from one number to the other. Check with your carrier for availability and to find out whether additional fees apply.

Switch phone numbers for a call

You can switch phone numbers before you make a call. If you're calling someone in your Favorites list, follow these steps:

Tap the current phone number.

Tap your other number.

If you're using the keypad, follow these steps:

Enter the phone number.

Tap the phone number, near the top of the screen.

Tap the number you want to use.

Send messages with iMessage and SMS/MMS

You can use iMessage or SMS/MMS to send messages with either phone number. 5 You can choose a number to use before or after you start a conversation. Here's how.

Choose a number before you send an iMessage or SMS/MMS message

Open Messages.

Tap the New button, in the upper-right corner of the screen.

Enter your contact's name.

Switch numbers during a conversation

Tap the number you're using, near the top of the screen.

Choose the number you want to use instead.

The icons in the status bar at the top of the screen show the signal strength of your two carriers. Learn what the status icons mean .

You can see more status icons when you open Control Center .

When Carrier 1 is in use, the other line will show No Service.

The status bar shows that the device is connected to Wi-Fi and Carrier 2 is using Wi-Fi Calling.

With Allow Cellular Data Switching turned on, the status bar shows that Carrier 1 is using 5G, and Carrier 2 is using the cellular data of Carrier 1 and has Wi-Fi calling enabled.

One number at a time can use cellular data. To change which number uses cellular data, follow these steps:

Go to Settings.

Tap either Cellular or Mobile Data.

Tap Cellular Data.

Tap the number you want to use cellular data.

If you turn on Allow Cellular Data Switching, then while you're on a voice call on your voice-only number, that number automatically switches to use voice and data. 6 This lets you use both voice and data while on the call.

If you turn off Allow Cellular Data Switching and you're active on a voice number that isn't your designated cellular-data number, then cellular data won't work while you're on the call.

To turn on Allow Cellular Data Switching, follow these steps:

Tap Mobile Data.

Turn on Allow Cellular Data Switching.

To change your cellular settings for each of your plans, follow these steps:

Tap the number you want to change.

Tap each option and set it as you normally would.

Use Dual SIM with an eSIM and your Apple Watch .

If you can't set up your eSIM or if you have trouble using your eSIM, learn what to do .

eSIM on iPhone is not offered in China mainland. In Hong Kong and Macao, iPhone 13 mini, iPhone 12 mini, iPhone SE (2nd and 3rd generation), and iPhone XS feature eSIM. Learn about using Dual SIM with two nano-SIM cards in China mainland, Hong Kong, and Macao .

This uses Dual SIM Dual Standby (DSDS) technology, which means that both SIMs can make and receive calls.

Or if you're using iOS 12, update to iOS 13 or later to receive calls when you're using your other number.

4. If data roaming is on for the number that uses cellular data, then Visual Voicemail and MMS will be disabled on your voice-only number.

Additional fees might apply. Check with your carrier.

Your data line switches automatically for the duration of your call. This cellular-data switching won't work if you're currently using Data Roaming. Check with your carrier for availability and to find out if additional fees apply.

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More and more people are ditching carrier roaming in favor of travel eSIMs

Published on April 8, 2024

• The travel eSIM sector is booming and for good reason.
• According to a report, travel eSIM users will grow from 40 million in 2024 to over 215 million by 2028.
• In 2024, carrier subscribers are expected to spend an average of $8.57/GB of data while traveling compared to eSIM users spending $5.50/GB.

Traveling internationally? You might want to grab a travel eSIM instead of opting for a roaming plan from your carrier. Chances are you’ll end up paying a lot less for data on a travel eSIM than what your network provider is charging you.

A new report from Juniper Research suggests that the global number of travel eSIM users will grow from 40 million in 2024 to over 215 million by 2028. While the increase in the number of international travelers and growing awareness of travel eSIMs are big contributors to this growth, other reasons for the spiking trend are cost and comfort.

Travel eSIMs are easy to procure. All you need to do is download an eSIM profile on your phone from a travel eSIM service provider like Airalo . Moreover, based on current costing trends, the aforementioned research paper claims that in 2024, mobile subscribers will spend an average of $8.57 per GB of data when using carrier-based roaming plans. In contrast, travel eSIM users will spend $5.50 per GB. This makes for 35% cost savings for consumers who travel internationally.

The number of eSIM-enabled devices is also on the uptake. According to the report, more than half of connected devices in the US will have eSIMs installed this year.

Not sure if you have the tech? Here’s how to check if your phone is eSIM compatible . Still not familiar with eSIMs? You can read up on all the differences between an eSIM and a physical SIM here .

Local and Regional eSIMs at a special prices

United States eSIM data plans for travelers Stay connected to internet on your travel to United S

Europe eSIM data plans for travellers 1GB 3GB 5GB 10GB 20GB

Turkey eSIM data plans for travelers 1GB 3GB 5GB 10GB 20GB $

UAE eSIM data plans for travelers 1GB 3GB 5GB 10GB 20GB $5.4

New Zealand eSIM mobile data plans for travelers 1GB 3GB 5GB 10GB 20G

Nicaragua eSIM mobile data plans for travelers 1GB 3GB 5GB 10GB 20GB

Niger eSIM mobile data plans for travelers 1GB 3GB 5GB $14.2 $36.

Nigeria eSIM mobile data plans for travelers 1GB 3GB 5GB 10GB 20GB

How does eSIM data plans work?

Find all eSIM Supported Phones

Not all smartphones are eSIM-compatible. We created this list to help you determine whether your smartphone can accept an eSIM. UPDATED APRIL 2024

How to install an eSIM on iOS or Android device

Activate eSim effortlessly on iOS and Android smartphones! Your easy guide to seamless connectivity. Embrace the future of mobile technology.

ESIM DATA PLANS - INTERNATIONAL ESIMS

Check if your device is eSIM compatible and purchase your data plan

Your phone have to be eSIM supported. After verifying, search for your travel destination and buy eSIM data plan.

Check your email and find a QR code

After successful payment check your email, download a QR code and follow installation instructions. Don't forget to check a spam or promotional folders.

Scan a QR code and install the eSIM

Install the eSIM by scanning a QR code or do it manually. Find our easy installation guides in FAQ or Blog section. Be online as soon as you arrive at your destination as your phone will conect automatically.

What is an eSIM? Here’s everything you need to know

I f you’ve purchased a new cell phone in the past decade or so, you’re probably already familiar with the SIM—the little thumbnail-sized card that’s used to connect to your your carrier’s cellular network —but in recent years smartphone manufacturers and carriers have started replacing them with something called an eSIM.

The “e” in eSIM stands for “embedded,” which makes sense as this is a SIM card that stays inside your phone and can’t be removed. It performs the same function as a traditional SIM card but has the potential to make things a lot simpler for most smartphone users. Almost any new phone you buy nowadays features eSIM technology, including the new iPhone 15 . In fact, the iPhone 15 doesn’t even have a physical SIM card slot available, and all iPhone 15 users need to transfer to eSIM — giving a hint at where the technology is going. Pretty soon eSIMs could become the standard, with physical SIM cards gradually fading out of use.

But if you’re confused by the concept of an eSIM, don’t worry — we’ve got you covered. Read on as we get more specific about what eSIM technology truly is, and how it differs from its predecessor, the physical SIM card. 

What is an eSIM?

An embedded SIM, also known as an eSIM, is a SIM card that’s built into your smartphone and can’t be removed. It performs the same function as a traditional SIM, except that it’s programmable and physically connected (soldered) to your smartphone’s motherboard.

This may seem problematic at first glance. For instance, when traveling abroad using phones with removable SIM cards, you can swap to another carrier’s SIM card to get local coverage and avoid paying roaming fees from your primary carrier. Likewise, if you want to switch local carriers but keep your phone, a removable SIM card can be popped out and easily replaced with a new one in seconds. Your first impression may be that this is impossible with an eSIM.

However, eSIM technology actually makes switching carriers even easier, at least in theory. Instead of waiting for a new SIM card to ship or making a trip to a local store to pick one up, you can make the switch right on your phone by entering information from your carrier — often just by scanning a QR code with your smartphone’s camera. If your smartphone has an eSIM inside, you’ll find options in the settings that allow you to configure your eSIM , switch between lines and carriers, and manage your accounts. If you’re a dual-SIM user , eSIM technology may even support multiple accounts — and switching between them is super easy.

Unfortunately, while getting an eSIM should be easier than obtaining a physical SIM, that’s not always the case. Some carriers have taken longer than others to embrace the seamlessness of eSIM, and it’s not uncommon to encounter a few that still want to mail you your eSIM codes or have you visit a store before you can set up your phone. That takes away one of the biggest advantages of using an eSIM, but thankfully most carriers are working quickly to catch up with the times.

The other significant benefit of eSIM technology is the space saved by removing a physical SIM tray. Devices can be smaller because the eSIM chip is embedded in the device’s motherboard — there’s no unnecessary space taken up by placing a slot and tray on the outside edge of the device. This allows for thinner designs and larger batteries. It also helps with improving water resistance by eliminating another place where moisture can get inside your phone.

Devices with eSIM technology

All of the major phone manufacturers now offer eSIM technology in their phones: Apple iPhones  have it (including, of course, the recently released iPhone 15), Samsung Galaxy devices have it, Google Pixel phones have it, and flagship Motorola phones have it. If you buy a new phone, chances are strong you’ll have eSIM functionality in the palm of your hands. Many tablets and watches include eSIM technology too, including Apple Watches and iPads.

Speaking of Apple, all iPhones from the iPhone 13 on offer support for using two eSIM cards, letting users get dual-SIM support without the need for a physical SIM card. In fact, Apple removed the physical SIM card slot entirely for the U.S. models of the iPhone 14 lineup, making eSIM the only way to get your iPhone 14 activated on a carrier network .

iPhone 14 models sold in most other countries still include two eSIM cards and one physical SIM card slot, the same as the iPhone 13. The notable exception to this rule is China, where eSIM has never been included on an iPhone. Instead, when Apple debuted the iPhone XS/XR in China, it provided two physical SIM card slots. That practice has continued to this day.

However, if you’re in the U.S. and want a physical SIM card slot on your iPhone 14, there’s one thing you’ll want to keep in mind before hopping up to Canada or down to Mexico to do a little cross-border shopping. Although all North American iPhone models  support the same 4G/LTE,  low-band 5G , and mid-band 5G frequencies, only the U.S. iPhone models support the mmWave 5G used for the fastest portions of Verizon’s 5G Ultra Wideband and AT&T’s 5G Plus coverage.

When can I start using an eSIM?

Chances are, your mobile device already has an eSIM card, as we’ve outlined above. Laptops with cellular connectivity mostly connect using eSIM technology, like the Surface Pro X and various models from Acer, Asus, Dell, HP, Lenovo, and Samsung. You will still see cases where SIM cards are employed in laptop designs, but that’s becoming far less common.

Until eSIM tech becomes the universal standard, many phones will still have a tray designated for a removable SIM card. There’s nothing wrong with using one of these phones — it’s just an older means to identify you on a carrier’s network. Still, swapping out a SIM card can be troublesome, given its size and delicate do-not-touch circuits. Managing an eSIM is easier for everyone, whether you’re switching phones or moving to another carrier.

If you’re using a dual-SIM phone with both a physical SIM card and eSIM, such as an iPhone or Google Pixel, you may also be able to transfer your physical SIM information directly to your eSIM . Many carriers allow for this, and iOS and Android provide tools to make it quick and easy. Once that’s done, you can toss your old SIM card aside and free up that slot for a physical SIM card for traveling.

Nevertheless, while you’ll want to check ahead, you may be pleasantly surprised to find how many international carriers support eSIM, and it’s hard to argue that it’s much easier to scan a QR code than trying to fiddle with swapping out a small and fragile SIM card, especially when traveling through a busy airport.

What is an eSIM and how does it work?

An eSIM is an embedded SIM card that lives inside your phone, making it distinct from a traditional SIM card, which can be physically removed from your phone. An eSIM performs the same function as a physical SIM: it allows you to connect to your carrier’s cell phone network and plan.

What is the disadvantage of eSIM?

On its face, the disadvantage of eSIM technology is that because it can’t be physically removed, quickly swapping out SIM cards when you’re traveling to get local coverage from a different carrier is a harder thing to do. In actuality, it makes switching carriers even easier, since switching to a new SIM is as easy as scanning a QR code from your phone.

Why would someone use an eSIM?

The reason someone would use an eSIM is that it enables easier switching between carriers. Instead of delicately swapping out easy-to-lose (or damage) physical SIM cards, all you have to do is scan a QR code to get coverage from a different carrier. Switching your cell phone carrier, data, or plan is all handled via software.

How do you use an eSIM when traveling internationally?

One other popular reason to use an eSIM is if you are traveling internationally. As anyone who travels regularly can tell you, you can rack up big charges on your phone if you try to use a standard plan while you’re abroad. So one smart option, particularly among those who travel often, is to have a separate SIM for other countries that you visit. That way, you can take advantage of local pricing for calls, texts, and that all-important internet access. And rather than worrying about a physical SIM card which is easy to lose and can be fiddly to swap when you’re on the go, you can get an eSIM to easily swap between your home and international carriers.

You can buy a cheap pre-paid SIM or even a SIM with a data plan if you think you’ll need it, then use the eSIM option to load those SIM settings to your phone. Once you arrive in your destination country, you can start using your alternative eSIM straight away and save money by accessing the local tariff rates.

Menasim: eSIM Travel Internet 17+

Prepaid global internet esim, designed for ipad, screenshots, description.

Global Connectivity, No Roaming Costs: Experience Connectivity Without Limits! Your Passport to Seamless Mobile Internet Data Anywhere. Download Now! Are you tired of paying exorbitant mobile roaming data fees or hunting for local SIM cards when you travel? Do you want to stay connected to your loved ones and the world wherever you go? If yes, then Mena Sim is the app for you! Enjoy global connectivity by purchasing one of our prepaid eSIM plans, which start at $4.00 and are available in over 200 countries. Add a data pack from our store to your iPhone or iPad and stop the hassle of changing SIM cards or carrying a bulky Wi-Fi dongle. What is an eSIM? An eSIM is a digital SIM card that is embedded in your device's firmware. It allows you to add a data plan without using a physical SIM card slot. You can have multiple eSIMs on one device and switch between them easily. What devices are compatible with eSIM? You can find a list of eSIM-compatible devices on our website, by visit our support centre. (compatible devices) Some of the popular devices that support eSIM are: - iPhone 11, 11 Pro, 11 Pro Max, SE (2nd generation), 12, 12 mini, 12 Pro, 12 Pro Max - iPad Pro (3rd generation and later), iPad Air (3rd generation and later), iPad (8th generation), iPad mini (5th generation) - Samsung Galaxy S21, S21+, S21 Ultra, Z Fold2, Z Flip - Google Pixel 3, 3 XL, 3a, 3a XL, 4, 4 XL, 4a, 4a (5G), 5 - Huawei P40, P40 Pro - Motorola Razr (2019) Does an eSIM come with a number? Some of our eSIMs come with numbers and we are working to add this feature to all of our eSIMs. Make sure to check if you have this feature by going to your eSIM’s description. How much will I pay? Our eSIM data packs start from $4 for 1GB of data. Who is MENASim best for? If you are travelling, you need MENASim. It is as simple as that! Why use MENASim? MENASim offers you many benefits over traditional SIM cards or Wi-Fi services: - Save up to 10x on mobile data fees compared to roaming or local SIM cards. - Keep your existing phone number while using the data from your eSIM. - Access local data services at low prices without compromising on quality or speed. - Top up your eSIM anytime, anywhere with a few taps. - Store multiple eSIMs on one device and activate them on demand. - No contracts, no hidden fees, no surprises, we promise! How does it work? Using MENASim is simple and easy. Just follow these steps: Step 1: Download the MENASim app and create an account Step 2: Browse and buy an eSIM data plan for your destination. Step 3: Install your eSIM on your device in minutes. Step 4: Enjoy fast and reliable mobile data wherever you are! Ready to join the eSIM revolution? Download MENASim today and get connected to the world!

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