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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Compare The Best International SIM Cards

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

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

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

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

TravelSim Worldwide Card

• > Cheaper initial cost
• > Some cheaper rates for off-beat countries
• > No long-standing reputation

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

KeepGo Lifetime World SIM Card

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

Surfroam SIM Card

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

Orange Holiday Europe Prepaid SIM Card

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

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

Why did you put ‘anywhere’ in quotes?

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

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

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So, how does an international SIM card work?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Who benefits from buying an international SIM card?

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

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

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

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

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

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

#1 The Best International Physical SIM Card – OneSim

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

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

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

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

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

How OneSim Works

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

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

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

So, is it worth it?

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

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

#2 Best Global eSim Provider – GigSky

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

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

How GigSky Works

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

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

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

So, Is It Worth It?

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

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

#3 Great Global eSim Package – Sim Local

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

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

How Sim Local Works

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

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

#4 A Worldwide SIM Card – WorldSIM

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

How WorldSim Works

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

How it Works

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

How do I activate my international SIM card?

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

What does international SIM mean?

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

What is the best SIM card for international travel?

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

Do international SIM cards expire?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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!

Ziggy Samuels

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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My recommendation

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Comparison international sim card

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

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

 In short:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Prices and rates Orange Holiday World

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

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

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

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

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

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

Review Orange Holiday World

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

2. Jetpac Global

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

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

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

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

Pacific: Australia, New Zealand.

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

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

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

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

Prices and rates Jetpac Global

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

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

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

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

Review Jetpac

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

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

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

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

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

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

For more info check out the Jetpack website .

3. Discover Global E-Sim Card from Airalo

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

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

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

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

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

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

Prices Discover Global data-only E-Sim Card

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

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

Prices Discover Global E-Sim Card including calling/texting

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

The above data packages are valid in 130 countries:

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

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

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

Review Discover Global E-Sim Card

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Prices and rates 3 UK

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

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

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

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

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

Review 3 UK PAYG AIO20

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

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

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

5. Nomad - Data eSIM for Global

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

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

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

eSIM Go plans

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

The eSIM Go plans are valid in 139 countries.

Truphone plans

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

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

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

Nomad e-sim card specifications

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

6. eSim2FLY Global

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

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

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

eSIM2FLY AIS international e-sim card specifications

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

• North America
• Latin America

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

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

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

8. Surfroam

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

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

Prices and rates Surfroam

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

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

Review Surfroam

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

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

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

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

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

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

For more info check out the  Surfroam  website.

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

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

Prices and rates KeepGo

Gofi prepaid data sim card - $39 usd.

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

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

Lifetime Prepaid Data Sim Card - $49 USD

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

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

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

Click here to order a KeepGo international sim card .

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

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

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

Review Keepgo

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

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

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

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

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

10. Know Roaming

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

Prices and rates Know Roaming

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Review Know Roaming

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

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

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

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

11. Travelsim

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

Prices and rates Travelsim

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

Their pricing and rates are clear and straight forward though.

Review Travelsim

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

12. GigSky E-sim Card

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

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

Prices and rates Gigsky

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

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

Review Gigsky

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

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

Or check out the following sim card guides:

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

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

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

13. OneSimCard

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

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

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

Prices and rates OneSimCard

Anyway at OneSimCard they offer 4 different international sim cards:

Universal SIM - $29.95 USD

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

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

Expedition SIM - $34.95 USD

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

Europe & More SIM - $19.95 USD

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

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

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

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

Additional data roaming packages

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

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

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

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

Review OneSimCard

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

14. WorldSIM

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

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

Prices and rates WorldSIM

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

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

Review WorldSIM

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

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

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

Prepaid tourist sim cards vs. international sim cards

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

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

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

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

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

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

What is cheaper?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Where can you buy an international sim card?

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

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

Where can you buy local prepaid sim cards for tourists

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

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

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

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

International sim cards with unlimited data

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

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

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

Can international sim cards connect from everywhere?

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

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

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

International sim cards only work in unlocked phones

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

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

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

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

Do you really need an international sim card?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Summerizing:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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How to Travel to a Community Lot in Sims 2

Last Updated: April 8, 2021

wikiHow is a “wiki,” similar to Wikipedia, which means that many of our articles are co-written by multiple authors. To create this article, volunteer authors worked to edit and improve it over time. This article has been viewed 52,261 times. Learn more...

In The Sims 2, community lots are great places for your Sims to go shopping, go on dates, or just have fun. This wikiHow will teach you how to travel to a community lot in The Sims 2.

Taking a Taxi (Base Game)

• Sims who are not part of your household cannot go with your Sim this way. If you want your Sim to meet another Sim at a community lot, you'll need to click on the phone, go to the Transportation menu, and select "Invite a Sim to a Community Lot".
• Babies and toddlers cannot be taken to community lots, and children cannot be left at home alone. You'll need to leave a Teen or older Sim behind, or call a nanny to watch over them.

• If you don't have any expansion packs installed, the taxi will simply come by and get your Sim, and you'll be brought to the neighborhood view to pick what lot you want to go to.

• The taxi will drive off once your Sim has arrived at the lot. To send them somewhere else, click on the payphone at the front of the lot and select the option you want (either Go Somewhere Else or Go Home ).

Taking a Car (Nightlife)

• Sims who are not part of your household cannot go with your Sim this way. If you want your Sim to meet another Sim at a community lot, you'll need to use a phone to invite them out.

• Once your Sim has arrived at the lot, they'll park their car in front of the lot. You can either send them to another community lot or back home by clicking on the car.

Walking to Lots (Bon Voyage)

• Sims who are not part of your household cannot be added this way. If you want your Sim to meet another Sim at a community lot, you'll need to use a phone to invite them out.

• Once your Sim has arrived at the lot, you can have them walk to another community lot, or have them walk home (click on the Sim, hit Walk to Lot... , then choose Home ).

Expert Q&A

• You can't save the game while you're on a community lot. You'll need to return home in order to save the game. Thanks Helpful 1 Not Helpful 0
• Any objects that your Sim purchases (such as cell phones) will be stored in their inventory. Clothing will be available from the Plan Outfit... option at a dresser or changing booth. Food or a cup of espresso from a coffee shop will be consumed on the community lot. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0
• Witches and warlocks in Apartment Life can travel to lots via broomstick. (Click on the Sim and select Fly to... , then choose the lot you want them to go to.) Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0

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The Sims Wiki

• Pacific- or Caribbean-themed games and expansions

The Sims 2: Bon Voyage

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The Sims 2: Bon Voyage (also known as TS2 BV or simply Bon Voyage ) is the sixth expansion pack , released for The Sims 2 in 2007. It was released on September 4, 2007 in North America and September 6, 2007 in Europe for the Microsoft Windows Operating System. For the Mac OS X Operating System, it was released on December 17, 2007 by Aspyr Media. This was the last expansion pack for TS2 to be ported by Aspyr to the Mac, as FreeTime and Apartment Life were released exclusively on Windows. Like the Vacation expansion pack for The Sims , it focuses on leisure traveling. This game served as the inspiration for its successor, The Sims 3: World Adventures .

• 1 Description
• 2 Vacation Destination
• 3.1 Going on Vacation
• 3.2 Vacation Accommodations
• 3.3 Vacation Memento
• 3.4 Collectibles
• 3.5 Secret Vacation Lots
• 3.7 Jewelry [1]
• 3.8 Bigfoot
• 4.1 Minor Features
• 5 New Build Mode Additions
• 6 New Objects
• 7 New Interactions
• 11 The Sims 2 Launcher
• 12 Neighborhood Cheats
• 13 See also
• 14 References

Description [ ]

Whisk Sims away from their everyday routines and take them on exciting trips to three exotic locations! Whether relaxing on a lush tropical island in a luxury suite, camping with the family on a pristine mountaintop, or exploring the culture of the Far East, Sims will engage in new activities and experiences as they relax and rejuvenate. Transform them from bumbling tourists to savvy international travelers as they learn new customs including local greetings, dances and more to take home and teach to their friends. Send Sims packing for the trip of a lifetime!

Vacation Destination [ ]

The Sims 2: Bon Voyage features Vacation Destinations, a new type of sub-neighborhood which Sims will visit to spend their vacation. There are three types of Vacation Destinations, i.e. Far East , Tropical , and Mountain . Each destination has special attributes and its own attractions. These include the environment, locals, tours , and so on. Some special features can only be found in certain Vacation Destinations, such as ninjas that can be found in Far East, and beaches as the main attraction of a tropical vacation.

Game Features [ ]

Going on vacation [ ].

As a way to stay away from everyday routine, Sims can now have a vacation by booking one via phone or computer . Traveling to vacation landmarks, relaxing, and experiencing things that normally cannot be found in the everyday life is what vacationing is all about. Sims can go to a vacation trip alone or bringing families and friends along. Going on vacation doesn't require any days off from work, because while being on vacation, ages and time continuity stop, so Sims that leave for a vacation at Tuesday noon will return at the same time they left. This mechanism is similar to when Sims travel to community lots . Vacation trips, however, have a maximum of 7 days, and if the vacation time is over for several days, Sims will be forced to go home. This means they can't stay forever at the Vacation Destination. Only Sims older than toddler and non-pets can go on vacation, so babies , toddlers, and pets must stay at home with a remaining household member or a nanny .

While on a vacation, the main attraction is to travel to community lots and spend as much time as possible there, because Sims shouldn't waste their precious time at their lodging. The time continuity works differently from going to community lots in the Base Neighborhood. Time and hours will keep going when Sims leave house and when they're back home. This is similar to the time mechanics in Colleges . The difference is, they can't learn skills , gain enthusiasm [ TS2:FT ] , or build talent badges . Also, Lifetime Aspiration will not be accumulated so Sims cannot exploit of the extra days they get from going on vacations. Sims also gain temporary Vacation Benefits after they return from a good vacation, or penalties if the vacation was bad.

Vacation Accommodations [ ]

Sims need to stay somewhere while on vacation. There are three types of accommodation where Sims can stay: Vacation Homes, Hotels , or Campgrounds. Each of the accommodations has its own advantages and disadvantages. Vacation Homes can be purchased from real estate, but they are very expensive; costing the same as regular houses. It is, however, fully customizable just like normal residential lots .

Hotels are the second expensive accommodation, but the price depends on the type of lodge Sims are staying. The more luxurious the hotel is, the more expensive. Sims cannot access their Inventory in the Hotels or Campgrounds. A hotel may or may not contain amenities, such as Restaurants and swimming pools, though expensive hotels may offer some. Sims can book multiple suites before they check in, and suites that are not booked will be booked by Tourists. They can lock their suites to allow vacation parties or just the households. Sims can order room service from their suites, and Housekeepers will clean up the hotel.

Campgrounds are free, and the only premade Campground is Axe Wood Campgrounds . Sims sleep in tents that replenish Energy need slowly. Campgrounds don't have cleaning service, so Sims must clean up the mess themselves or influence others to do so. Campgrounds and tents are also vulnerable to outdoor temperature . Thus, staying in the Campground in extreme temperature or on Winter is difficult for Sims. Campgrounds can provide some campfires to keep Sims warm by sitting around one.

Vacation Memento [ ]

Sims who achieve vacation experiences can keep track of what they have done on vacation by looking at their Vacation Memento . Each Sim has a Vacation Memento in their memories panel. It has a suitcase icon. There are 45 mementos in total. Sims can earn mementos by doing certain things or achieve things that particularly can be found in Vacation Destination, such as learning local dances and eating local food. Sims will earn vacation titles in the Vacation Memento panel the more they gain mementos. Collecting all mementos doesn't reward Sims anything, though.

Collectibles [ ]

Sims can earn and collect many souvenirs and other abilities they've learned while on vacation. Sims can collect souvenirs bought from certain Vacation Destinations or dig out beach collectibles and place them on a special rack to show off their friends about. Collecting five of each souvenirs will also benefit Sims depending on the type of the souvenirs. Sims may also dig the ground to find some treasuries, cheap stuff, or even leak the water main underground. Plundering the pirate ship might also grant Sims some pirate treasures.

Other than items, Sims can learn many things from the vacation. Sims might learn how to bow on Far East or other gestures from other vacations. They might also happen to learn some local dances and Tai Chi . Getting and learning local massages and eating local delicacies as well, as activities to spend on vacation. Sims might also encounter someone special who can teach them how to sing Sea Chantey or tell the Dragon Legend to friends. There are so many things they can discover and share with friends back home after going back from vacations.

Secret Vacation Lots [ ]

Each pre-made Vacation Destination is provided with a secret vacation lot . Each lot offers distinct benefits that Sims might learn or earn. Before discovering the secret vacation lots, Sims must first find the hidden maps throughout the vacation areas. They might find them while on tours , digging the ground, or wishing from shrine .

Bon Voyage now adds functional beach as a new lot system to The Sims 2 game. In addition to normal lots, beach lots can only be placed on an area which is adjacent to road and waters. Beach lots can be used as a residential lots , community lots , or hotels . Apartments [ TS2:AL ] , however, are not recommended to be built on uneven lots, most especially beach lots. Sims can do many beach-related activities on the beach lot. They can sunbathe , swim in the ocean , build a sandcastle, dig in the sand, and watch the waves. Some objects cannot be placed on the "beach line", a line which separates areas whether sandcastles can be built or not. Pirate ships can only be placed on beach lots, as well.

Not all terrains in The Sims 2 provide sufficient area to place the beach lot, though. Some terrains might not be even close enough to the waters. Only some pre-made terrains that are included since Bon Voyage might suit with beach lot area. These include Twikkii Island , Bluewater Village , Desiderata Valley , Belladonna Cove , Crescent Island, and Moon Islands.

Jewelry [1] [ ]

A new enhancement is the addition of jewelry . In Create a Sim or the Change Appearance interface of a mirror , bracelets, earrings, rings, necklaces, or piercings can be chosen. These can be set per outfit, just like hair. Jewelry can be set when creating a Sim, bought from the jewelry rack on a community lot, or be dug up on a beach. Each Vacation Destination has its own unique jewelry and accessories, which cannot be bought or found anywhere else.

Bigfoot [ ]

The new life state introduced in the Expansion Pack is Bigfoot . Bigfoot lives in the Hidden Burrow , a secret lot located in Three Lakes . Sims must have a secret map to find the Hidden Burrow and Bigfoot. A Bigfoot can be made playable by befriending them and asking them to move in. Then, another Bigfoot will take over the Hidden Burrow. Bigfoots have already mastered all skills and talent badges . They can't do any romantic interactions, so Bigfoots cannot have Romance , Family , or Pleasure Aspirations . They get along with children and dogs very well, but cats are not too fond of them.

New Additions [ ]

• New Life State : Bigfoot
• New NPCs : Bellhop, Tour Guide, Housekeeper, Ninja , Witch Doctor , Wise Old Man , Pirate Captain Edward Dregg , Unsavory Charlatan , and more
• New Radio Stations : Reggae, Surf, World, and Big Band
• New Dances : Hula Dance, Slap Dance, and Fire Dance
• New Meals : Chirashi, Pineapple Surprise, Flapjacks, and more
• New Places for WooHoo : Tent, Sauna, and Hammock
• New Turn Ons/Turn Offs : Employment, Skills, Life States, and Jewelry Turn Ons
• New Door Locks : Allow/disallow Party Members, Do Not Disturb, and Allow Housekeeping

Minor Features [ ]

• Real honeymoon. Traditionally, without Bon Voyage , Sims would go for a brief honeymoon trip with a limousine to replenish their needs. Engaged Sims can now plan a honeymoon, in addition to normal vacation. Sims cannot plan who will join the travel party and when departure takes time. After newlyweds get married, or after a wedding party ends with successful marriage proposal, a vacation van will arrive to pick the newlyweds to the vacation. If engaged Sims don't plan a honeymoon before marriage, no kind of honeymoon will occur, not even the traditional one.
• Changing booths can now be used as a wardrobe to change and plan household outfit . [1]
• Community marriage. [1] Sims can now marry on community lots as an alternative from marriage-at-home. Honeymoon limo will also come to pick the newlyweds. A wedding party cannot be thrown on community lots, however.
• Transportation picker. [1] Players can now choose which Sims will go along with the Sim who is going to a community lot, instead of only having the choice of bringing along all household members or going there alone.

New Build Mode Additions [ ]

• Pagoda Roofs

Pagoda roofs are new roof types which are used to make a distinctive architecture for Far East buildings. Pagoda roofs come with hipped, gabled, and mansard styles. Pagoda roofs must be built in square, rectangular, or diagonal. Pagoda roofs shouldn't intersect other pagoda roofs, because they will clip into each other and the roof effect will look unappealing.

New Objects [ ]

• Action Traveler's Action Tent
• Ancient Soakalicious Spring
• Swing Away Hammock
• ShowMeOff Rack of Glory Souvenir Rack
• "Big Ol' Glory" Tree Ring
• Logs of Burning Campfire
• Tea Time Table
• Four Blessing Mahjong Table
• Sweat It Out Sauna
• The Swashbuckling Shipwrecker by Impressive Installations Pirate Ship
• Backyard Pyramid Set of Ruins
• Sand Waves Zen Garden
• Soft 'n Tender Massage Table

New Interactions [ ]

• Sims can dig the ground to find many things, including treasure chest and water pipe.
• Sims can take snapshot and pose.
• Local or tourist friends can be invited as a houseguest for three days.
• Sims can walk to community lots instead of calling a taxi or driving a car [ TS2:NL ] . [1]
• Sims can assign employees to become masseuses for the massage table. [ TS2:OFB ]
• Sims can ask others to play pirates if a pirate ship is present on the lot.
• Sims can share discovery with others from the collectibles they found from beach (e.g. seashells, clams, etc.).
• Toddlers can eat sand.
• The Sims 2: Bon Voyage is the last pack in the franchise to come with two discs for installation.
• Several items from this pack, all from Three Lakes , are available to purchase on The Sims 3 Store.
• All vacation destinations start with the letter T.
• The Sims 2: Bon Voyage is the last expansion pack for The Sims 2 to be made for both Microsoft Windows and Mac OS X. The last two expansion packs for The Sims 2 were not made available for Mac OS X for unknown reasons.

Gallery [ ]

• Screenshots

The Sims 2 Launcher [ ]

Starting with The Sims 2: Bon Voyage , EA included a launcher to start the game. This feature is also included in expansion packs , stuff packs, and compilations released after Bon Voyage . It will display which Expansion Packs and Stuff Packs the player has installed, and will show a large Play button.

When connected to the internet, the launcher would also display news updates for The Sims 2 , as well as promotional material. The news display has been discontinued due to the removal of The Sims 2 website, but the Launcher still displays promotional material for other games in the series. There is a delay between the time the Play button appears and the time this promotional pane loads, and it is possible to click the Play button before the promotional pane finishes loading. As of August 24, 2013, it is necessary to do this, or to otherwise bypass the Launcher, as some of the new promotional content has been observed to cause the Launcher to stop responding.

Neighborhood Cheats [ ]

• changeLotZoning [residential | community | hotel | secretvacationlot]

This changes the zoning type of the lot. Before rezoning a lot using this cheat, make sure there are no Sims currently living in the lot. To use this cheat, enter the lot that you would like to rezone, and then enter the cheat, choosing one of these zoning options. Note that although the cheat to change lot zoning into secret vacation lot exists, you must do the proper way to turn it. Otherwise, it won't work or corrupt the game. The method to make a Secret Vacation Lot can be found here .

See also [ ]

• Comparison between The Sims 2: Bon Voyage and The Sims 3: World Adventures

References [ ]

• ↑ 1.0 1.1 1.2 1.3 1.4 This feature is carried forward to later Expansion Packs.
• 1 Career tracks
• 2 Trait (The Sims 4)
• 3 The Sims 4

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.

Sim2Fly Review (All The Details Covered)

Considering purchasing a Sim2Fly eSim for your trip but you’re not sure if it’s worth it? Then you’re in the right place because this detailed review will tell you everything you need to know about the Sim2Fly options.

What plans they offer, how they work, and what to expect from their eSim are just some of the topics covered in this detailed review. Keep reading to learn more about the Sim2Fly eSim, and figure out whether it’s the best option for your next trip!

What is Sim2Fly & How Does It Work?

Sim2Fly is a network provider that offers eSims for travelers. They initially started off as a company that provided travelers from Thailand with an eSim they could use abroad, and quickly evolved into an international provider.

Sim2Fly is a great provider for travelers in Asia because they have the most extensive plans for this region. The provider also includes single-country plans for Thailand and Vietnam, both of which include a generous data allowance and a local phone number.

You can also purchase a global plan from this provider, but I wouldn’t necessarily recommend this. It’s a good option for Thai people who want a local eSim while traveling abroad, but you should keep in mind that many other international providers offer more affordable regional and global data plans.

Networks used by Sim2Fly for their eSim

Sim2Fly uses the AIS network in Thailand, which is by far the best operator in the entire country. It’s their eSim of course, so it’s no surprise that you get to browse the Internet on this network. They partnered with DTAC for phone calls, and travelers with a Thailand Sim2Fly eSim get unlimited free phone calls on the DTAC network.

Sim2Fly partners with a variety of network operators throughout the world, and in many countries they provide you with access to more than one network. For Sim2Fly’s regional coverage plans, you can check out a details list of all their network partners right here .

Sim2Fly eSim Plan Offers

Sim2Fly has a total of 4 different eSim plans, with an extra free trial for travelers who want to test-drive their eSim before committing to anything. Their plans are Global, Asia, Thailand, and Vietnam.

The Global plan offers coverage in 120 countries throughout the world. It includes 6 GB of high-speed data and a Thai phone number, and it’s valid for 15 days. Once you use up all the high-speed data, you’re automatically switched to 2G at a speed of 128 kbps, but you have unlimited access to the slower Internet speed. This plan costs $33, so it’s the priciest option from the provider.

The Asia plan is the most popular Sim2Fly eSim plan and it’s great value for money. This plan also includes 6 GB of data at the fastest speeds, unlimited 2 G at 128 kbps once you’ve used up all the high-speed Internet, and a Thai phone number. The plan is valid in 34 countries throughout Asia for 8 days, and it’s only $16.

The Thailand plan is a good option for travelers who are only traveling to Thailand. You get 15 GB of data valid for 16 days (for 4G/5G), unlimited 2G at 384 kbps, free calls on the DTAC network, and some call credit to get you started. This eSim is only $9.8, which makes it one of the best overall options for travelers in Thailand.

The Vietnam plan is Sim2Fly’s final plan. It includes 60 GB of data, a Vietnam phone number, and unlimited 2G Internet at 384 kbps if you manage to use up the initial 60 GB. This plan is active for 15 days and it costs just $9, which makes it one of the best eSim plans for Vietnam you can get your hands on.

On top of all that, it’s worth noting that Sim2Fly also has a free trial for 46 countries . You can try this plan free of charge, and it’s a great way to test their eSim if you’re not sure it’s the right option for you. The free trial eSim offers global coverage, and when you use up the free 30 MB, you can purchase additional data at $6 per gigabyte.

This is a bit cheaper than their original global plan, but it’s worth noting that it includes coverage in fewer countries.

Advantages of Using Sim2Fly eSim

The advantage of the Sim2Fly eSim is that you can hardly find a better deal for traveling in Asia. Their regional plan for Asia is affordable, offers coverage in 34 countries, and an unlimited amount of data albeit at lower speeds, but it’s still a great deal. This plan is significantly more affordable than the plans from other international providers, and it’s absolutely a good deal for travelers in Asia.

The Thailand and Vietnam plans are also excellent if you’re staying in one of those specific countries, especially because they include a phone number, allowing you to use the tourist eSim just like a regular sim card.

The fact that you get access to unlimited 2G after you use up all the high-speed Internet data is pretty amazing. Most other providers don’t include this, and even though it’s slow, it should be good enough for some basic Internet browsing and map directions.

Disadvantages of Using Sim2Fly eSim

The main disadvantage of the Sim2Fly eSim is that it’s only a good option for countries in Asia. Their global plan is quite pricey for what it is, and you can get a variety of similar plans for less money from providers such as Airalo and Nomad.

Another disadvantage is that this is a roaming sim card, so even though they’re partnering with various network providers throughout the world, you’re still not reaping the same benefits you would if you purchased a local eSim in every country you visited. The Global plan includes a Thai phone number, which certainly isn’t ideal for traveling in Europe or the United States.

But, the Global plan aside, Sim2Fly is still a great option for certain travelers, particularly those who are planning to travel in Asia.

How to Buy a Sim2Fly eSim at Your Travel Destination

You can purchase the Sim2Fly eSim only at their official website, and it’s recommended you do this before you arrive at your travel destination. You will need to input your payment information when purchasing the eSim, and doing this on your home WiFi is much safer than doing it on a public network.

Don’t worry, you don’t have to activate your eSim until you arrive at your travel destination. Just add it to your phone’s cellular plan and then activate it when you arrive, so you don’t waste a moment of the credit validity period.

How to Setup & Activate Your Sim2Fly eSim

To set up and activate your Sim2Fly eSim you’ll need to scan the QR code that you get after the purchase. Then just follow the installation prompts – it’s super simple to add the eSim to your plan, and it shouldn’t take more than a couple of minutes.

If the QR code doesn’t work for whatever reason, you can attempt to add the eSim plan to your phone manually, through the network settings. Just select Add an eSim (Android) or Add a Cellular Plan (iPhone) and input the necessary data.

Activating the eSim is as easy as turning on the mobile data and browsing the Internet. You first need to make sure that you have the eSim enabled for mobile data and your other sim disabled, to avoid data roaming charges.

Also, don’t activate the eSim until you’ve arrived at your destination; doing so will just waste your credit, so wait until you’re in the destination country to start browsing the Internet with your Sim2Fly eSim.

Sim2Fly eSim Review – Frequently Asked Questions

How do i top up my sim2fly esim.

You can top up the Sim2Fly eSim by loading enough extra credit on it and then dialing a specific code for the extra plan you want to purchase. You can see a list of the plans and corresponding codes on their website , plus you have the option of topping up the eSim through the myAIS app (available for Android and iOS devices ).

How much is the top-up for SIM2Fly?

Top-up for the Sim2Fly eSim can cost between $3 and $75, depending on the amount of data you want to add. The $75 top-up is a yearly plan of 15 GB; all the other top-ups are significantly more affordable. It’s $4 for an extra 1 GB of data on the Asia plan, but $10 for 1 GB on the Global plan. For 4 additional GB, you’ll pay $10 for the Asia plan, or $22 for the Global plan.

What is the speed of SIM2Fly?

Sim2Fly offers the fastest speed available in a country because it connects to either 5G or 4G LTE networks. The average speed of 4G is 8-10 Mbit/s with the possibility of up to 40 Mbit/s, while the average speed of 5G is 100 Mbps. You get a limited amount of data for the fastest speed, and once you use that up you can use unlimited 2G at 128 kbps for the remainder of the plan’s validity period.

About the Author Anna Timbrook

Anna is the co-owner of expert world travel and can't wait to share her travel experience with the world. With over 54 countries under her belt she has a lot to write about! Including those insane encounters with black bears in Canada.

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Best prepaid SIM Cards for U.S. travelers and tourists 2024

Make sure your phone speaks the right language.

At a glance

Best overall, best for short stays, best budget, best non-mvno, best prepaid data plan, best data-only plan.

At a glance 1. Best overall 2. Best for short stays 3. Best budget 4. Best non-MVNO 5. Best prepaid data plan 6. Best data-only plan FAQ

Whether you're going on a quick vacation or moving for good, it's never a bad idea to invest in one of the best prepaid SIM cards so you can stay in touch with friends and family back home. If you're having trouble choosing among all of the options that are out there, fear not: we've gathered all of the best prepaid SIM cards for travelers so you don't have to worry. 

As long as your Android phone is unlocked for international use and compatible with local networks, such as T-Mobile, Verizon, and AT&T, ordering a SIM card online or through a nearby retailer should be simple. 

Keep reading for all of the best prepaid SIM cards for U.S. travelers and tourists alike. If you want to go even deeper, you can also check out our guide to the best MVNO carriers or save some cash with the best MVNO deals of the month. 

From $15 at Mint Mobile

Soon to be owned by T-Mobile, a Mint Mobile SIM is a perfect choice if you're staying in the U.S. for three months or longer, with unlimited talk/text, a mobile hotspot, and more. 

Read more below.

From $19 at Ultra Mobile

The Ultra Mobile 3GB plan gives you a month of unlimited talk and text to over 90 countries worldwide on T-Mobile, up to 3GB of 5G/4G LTE data, and free Wi-Fi calling.

Read more below.  

From $15 at Lycamobile

If the ability to call abroad is your main focus, all Lycamobile plans come with unlimited talk and text to over 85 countries and a variety of data options.

From $30 at AT&T

Best non-MVNO 

Choose AT&T Prepaid's 5GB plan for $30 per month and you'll get unlimited talk, text, and 5GB of data with 5G access and the ability to text over 230 countries for free.

From $40 at T-Mobile

T-Mobile's prepaid plan is a little pricey, but you get 10GB of data, a free mobile hotspot, and access to the world's largest 5G network. 

From $35 at Cricket Wireless

If you only need data on your travels, Cricket's data-only plan offers a minimum of 20GB of high-speed data, as well as usage in Mexico and Canada. 

1. Mint Mobile

Our expert review:

Reasons to buy

Reasons to avoid.

Mint Mobile is one of the best MVNO carriers today and uses T-Mobile's 4G LTE and 5G network, making it a great prepaid SIM card to get if you plan on staying in the U.S. for at least three months. As we found in our Mint Mobile review , Mint's 5G connection is strong, and its phone compatibility is one of the best in the country.

With Mint, you need to purchase at least three months of service upfront. After that, the best deals are offered when you sign up for six months or 12. For three months on the unlimited plan, you'll pay $90 and get unlimited talk, text, and data, 10GB of mobile hotspot, and free calls to Mexico and Canada. Calling to other international locations is available at a per-minute rate but if you use an app to call your friends such as WhatsApp or Line, you'll only need data.

Joining Mint Mobile is easy, and you can even sign up for a trial online to get a free Mint Mobile SIM card . It's especially easy if your phone is eligible for an eSIM since you can then activate the SIM straight from your phone and later continue your service if you like it. You can also get a Mint SIM card from Target, Best Buy, Walmart, or Amazon.

2. Ultra Mobile 3GB

Ultra Mobile is an MVNO on T-Mobile's network, meaning that you'll get great T-Mobile coverage at a lower price. Our Ultra Mobile review showed strong coverage and speeds. Though Ultra Mobile offers its own set of prepaid plans, the Ultra Mobile 3GB plan is a perfect fit for anyone visiting the U.S. for a month or less.

This is a more traditional SIM and after 30 days, the plan will expire, making it great for users who just wanted simple talk and text to a wide range of destinations and don't need a lot of data on their travels. For $19 with the SIM kit included, you'll get unlimited talk and text to over 90 countries worldwide, plus free Wi-Fi calling and up to 4GB of 5G/LTE data, meaning you should have no issue reaching friends and family back home.

3. Lycamobile

Lycamobile is unique because it's a global MVNO, and in the U.S., it's an MVNO on T-Mobile's network. To check whether your phone is compatible, the easiest thing to do is type in your IMEI number on Lycamobile's website, but most GSM unlocked devices should work.

Lycamobile offers several plans to pick from and really caters to those who need unlimited nationwide talk and text and international calling and texting to 85+ countries. Each plan includes these features at no additional charge, making this the perfect plan if you're someone who wants to be able to call abroad whenever you want.

When it comes to data, you have multiple options starting at just 250MB and going up to 60GB. The cheapest 250MB plan costs $15, while the top unlimited data plan costs $59. The 2GB plan is only available to new customers so if you're already signed up, this plan will come with 1GB of data. Each plan includes slightly different bonus features, so you'll have to pick what makes the most sense for you.

Fortunately, Lycamobile SIM cards are pretty easy to get a hold of. They're sold online on Lycamobile's website and Amazon, but you'll also find Lycamobile SIM cards in several retailers, including 7-Eleven, pharmacies, local convenience stores, etc. When in doubt, you can also use the online store locator to find the nearest retailer near you.

4. AT&T Prepaid

Known for its great coverage, AT&T is also an excellent carrier to consider getting a SIM card from when visiting the U.S. and one of the best prepaid phone plans . It tends to have better coverage in rural areas than other carriers, so it's also a great option if you plan to be on the road a lot. For $30 (plus taxes and fees), AT&T Prepaid will get you 5GB of high-speed data, which is then throttled to 128Kbps. As always, you should check your device's compatibility with AT&T online before signing up.

On this plan, you're able to use your mobile hotspot, and you can text to more than 230 countries. You'll also be able to talk, text, and use data in Mexico and Canada (though data speeds may be slow). And if you think you'll need more than 5GB of data, you can always upgrade to a 15GB prepaid plan for $40, which is a great deal and definitely worth considering.

5. T-Mobile Prepaid

T-Mobile not only offers some of the best cell phone plans you could get today, but it also has an excellent prepaid option that will suit most travelers and tourists needs when visiting the U.S. Because T-Mobile's network has improved vastly over the past few years and its 5G network has some of the most expansive coverage and fastest speeds in the nation, you'll likely get excellent service with T-Mobile when traveling to major cities during your stay.

There are four T-Mobile prepaid plans from which to choose, though the ideal plan for most visitors will be T-Mobile's 10GB prepaid plan for $40 per month. This plan includes unlimited domestic talk and text, up to 10GB of high-speed data, free mobile hotspot data, and a music unlimited feature so that any music you stream won't eat up your data. If you want to add international calling, you can do so for $15 extra, or if you're traveling to Mexico or Canada for a few days, you can add talk, text, and 5GB of data to use over there for an extra $5.

6. Cricket Wireless

If you don't think you'll need minutes during your stay in the U.S. and really just want data, you could consider a data-only plan from Cricket Wireless , which is an MVNO on AT&T's network. For $35, you'll get 20GB to use during the month, or for $55, you'll get 100GB.

Again, this plan doesn't come with any minutes, so you'll have to be sure you're fine using apps like WhatsApp, Facebook Messenger, or Skype to connect with family or friends. It does come with text and picture messages across the U.S., as well as usage in Mexico and Canada if you plan on visiting those countries as well. It's the perfect plan for anyone who will be spending lots of time on the road and wants to be able to stream, download, and do some high-speed browsing.

You can get a Cricket SIM card by going into a Cricket Wireless authorized retailer, which you can locate with Cricket's online store locator. Other popular retailers such as Amazon, Target, Best Buy, and Walmart will also sell Universal SIM card activation kits for Cricket Wireless. The good news is that if you do end up wanting minutes, you can always switch to another one of Cricket's plans with the same SIM card.

Back to the top^

Which prepaid SIM card is best for you?

Why you can trust Android Central Our expert reviewers spend hours testing and comparing products and services so you can choose the best for you. Find out more about how we test .

You really can't go wrong with a prepaid SIM card on T-Mobile or AT&T's network while visiting the U.S., and the right fit for you depends on the length of your stay and whether you need features like being able to call back home. If you're traveling for only three weeks or less, the Ultra Mobile 3GB plan is the best choice and offers just enough talk, text, and data to stay connected.

On the other hand, if you'll be in the U.S. for a few months, Mint Mobile will give you the best multiple-month value. And if you're somewhere in between, a prepaid plan from either T-Mobile or AT&T is easy, reliable, and guaranteed to give you great coverage.

Should you use your current carrier's add-ons?

Many carriers have partnerships with international carriers to offer greater service to their own customers. Luckily, this often goes both directions and means there may be a plan add-on that can give you plenty of data without needing to set up and activate a new SIM. While these travel add-ons can be quite pricey, the simplicity of this option will make it worth it to many people. It also gives you the chance to have a connection if you're waiting for a connecting flight in another country.

What about eSIM apps?

Another emerging option is eSIM apps. These apps can use your phone's built-in eSIM slot to quickly activate and pay for a phone plan without needing to remove your old SIM or worry about shipping a physical SIM in the first place. Airalo , for example, allows customers to buy as little as 1GB for a week. If you just need enough data to get around in a new city, this is a good option. It works with Google Pay, credit card, PayPay, and even Alipay.

If you have an iPhone, there's even an official T-Mobile Prepaid eSIM app that accepts credit card payments from a number of countries. Regrettably, this app isn't available on Android though there are still other eSIM providers on the platform.

Just be sure to confirm compatibility before taking off. Still, there are other apps available on Android that offer solid deals on data without contacts or physical SIMs necessary.

• MVNO deals: Mint Mobile | Visible | Boost | Tello | Cricket

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After almost a decade of working in the e-commerce space, Patrick Farmer (he/him) began his career at Android Central as a Deals and Commerce Writer before moving into a new role as AC's eCommerce Editor in 2023. When he's not hunting down the best deals and offering shopping advice for our readers, you'll often find him listening to music, camping out at a brewery, or treating his cat like a human child. 

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Best global SIM cards of 2022

Access worldwide calls, texts, and data

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

1. Knowroaming

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

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

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

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

Reasons to buy

Reasons to avoid.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Published on April 24, 2024

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

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

What is an eSIM?

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

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

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

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

Best eSIMs for international travel

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Holiday eSIM

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

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

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

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

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

Should you get an eSIM?

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

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

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

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

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

Which phones support eSIMs?

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

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

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

Here are the iPhone models that support eSIMs:

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

Here are the iPad models that support eSIMs:

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

To check if your Android phone supports eSIMs:

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

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

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

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

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

Types of eSIMs

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

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

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Making memories shouldn’t have a data limit

That’s why we created a NZ travel SIM with unlimited* max speed data, minutes and texts.

Unlimited Travel SIM

Welcome to New Zealand. Whether you’re here from across the ditch or across oceans, let’s set you up with the one must-have (besides sunscreen) - a travel SIM card. Ours comes with unlimited* data, calls and texts to NZ and Aussie numbers within NZ. So whether you’re scrolling the ‘gram or on FaceTime with gran, never run out of data while making memories.

1. Get your Unlimited Travel SIM

2. Add usage days to suit your suit your trip

3. Buy more days if you need

*Fair use policy applies. Hotspotting speeds may be reduced during periods of network congestion. Day based on a 24 hour period from time of purchase. Days in multiple day packs run consecutively and cannot be placed on hold. Days that have been purchased cannot be refunded. Free Data Hour excluded. Unlimited mins/texts/data: Standard NZ and Aussie mins and person to person text, excl. premium rate numbers (eg short codes). Calls rounded up to the next minute. Calls and texts to Norfolk Island and Australian Antarctic Territory are excluded. NZ data usage only. Excludes any casual usage including International roaming, International calling, picture messages & video calls Click here for full T&Cs .

"I'm off the plane. Where do I get my travel SIM?"

Our Unlimited Travel SIM is available at select airports, popular tourist destinations and 2degrees retail stores (excluding Partner Stores).

"I'm here for a week. How many GB's of data will I need?"

You’re on holiday, so let’s skip the math. Our Unlimited Travel SIM has one upfront cost based on the duration of your stay.

"My trip's been extended, but I still need data. What now?"

No sweat. Just add more days to your current plan to tide you over.

Frequently Asked Questions

You can order this from our partner with free delivery worldwide or find one at select airports, popular tourist destinations and 2degrees retail stores

Yes! Unlimited data means you’ll always have access to data at max speeds. Fair usage applies.

Sure can! You can talk the ears off anyone with a standard NZ or Aussie number from within NZ.

No. The most we offer as a single purchase is 30 days, but you can buy as many days as you like.

Our Unlimited Travel SIM is for visitors only, so it won’t be possible to transfer your number to one of our Prepay plans. However, if you want to get an additional Prepay SIM, you’re welcome to walk into your nearest 2degrees store, grab a new SIM and choose a Prepay plan to go with it.

Yes, you can hold on to your SIM. Your SIM won’t work outside NZ once you leave but we’ll keep your plan and your number active for up to 12 months and ready for you to use if you do decide to come back.

Simple, just scan the QR code on your SIM pack or visit travelsim.2degrees.nz and purchase the days you need using your credit card. You may need to toggle flight mode on and off to get started.

Yes, it’s easy. Simply visit travelsim.2degrees.nz

Yes! However, if you go too far out into the bush (where we don’t have mobile towers) you might experience a loss of coverage.

No, our Unlimited Travel SIM only works in New Zealand.

Absolutely. Because you have unlimited max speed data, you can hotspot and tether without worrying about running out of data.

The Unlimited Travel SIM is a multi sim that can suit different SIM types including Micro, Multi and Nano.

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California Governor Newsom launches abortion travel ban ad campaign in Alabama

By Dave Pehling

Updated on: April 22, 2024 / 1:41 PM PDT / CBS San Francisco

California Governor Gavin Newsom is taking aim at states considering abortion travel bans with the launch of a new ad campaign.

Newsom's Campaign for Democracy ad is set to air in Alabama starting Monday. The governor tweeted out the ad in a social media post Sunday morning.

Alabama’s abortion ban has no exceptions for rape or incest. Now, Republicans are trying to criminalize young women’s travel to receive abortion care. We cannot let them get away with this. pic.twitter.com/gHbYJYlEXk — Gavin Newsom (@GavinNewsom) April 21, 2024

The text with the video post reads, "Alabama's abortion ban has no exceptions for rape or incest. Now, Republicans are trying to criminalize young women's travel to receive abortion care. We cannot let them get away with this."

The 30-second commercial shows two nervous young women driving in a car passing a sign that reads "State Line 1 Mile." 

"We're almost there. You're gonna make it," the passenger tells the woman behind the wheel just before they hear a siren and are pulled over by a state trooper.

"Trump Republicans want to criminalize young Alabama women who travel for reproductive care," a voiceover says as the state trooper walks up to the car.

"Miss, I'm going to need you to step out of the vehicle and take a pregnancy test," the trooper says, waving a test stick in one hand. The next shot shows the driver leaning on the hood of her car as the trooper puts her in handcuffs.

"Stop them by taking action at RightToTravel.org ," the voiceover intones as the ad ends.

Alabama is currently weighing a bill that would make it a crime to help women travel outside the state in order to receive an abortion. The ad is part of a larger effort to combat travel bans across the United States. Newsom was behind a similar ad that ran in Tennessee.

The RightToTravel.org website says that those two states and Oklahoma are considering bills that ban minors from traveling out of state to get an abortion without parental consent, even if it's a case of incest or if there is abuse in the family.

It isn't the first action the governor has taken in the political battle over abortion since the U.S. Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade in June of 2022. Two days after the ruling, Newsom partnered with the governors of Oregon and Washington to issue a multi-state commitment promising to defend access to reproductive health care, including abortion and contraceptives.

In September of that year, he launched a billboard campaign in seven of the most restrictive anti-abortion states urging women seeking the procedure to come to California for treatment. He also signed more than a dozen new abortion laws  protecting women's reproductive rights and ordered the state to end its contract with Walgreens after the pharmacy giant  indicated it would not sell an abortion pill by mail in some conservative-led states . 

• Gavin Newsom
• Roe v. Wade

Dave Pehling started his journalism career doing freelance writing about music in the late 1990s, eventually working as a web writer, editor and producer for KTVU.com in 2003. He moved to CBS to work as the station website's managing editor in 2015.

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A local’s travel guide to Austin: what to eat, see and do in three days

Standout spots include food truck parks, honky-tonk hangouts and Lady Bird’s wildflower sanctuary

A ustin has become one of the most popular places in the US to move to, and also to visit. Droves of people descend on the city in March for the South by Southwest tech, film and music festival and in the fall for the Austin City Limits music festival. And Austin is one of the top five destinations in the US for bachelorette parties. Don’t let the bachelorettes scare you away, though. Austin is a great place to spend a few days, so long as you do it like a local.

My family and I moved to Austin 12 years ago, after living in New York for many years. I’ve also lived in Washington DC , the San Francisco Bay Area and Philadelphia. Austin has a feel all of its own: it has a world-class music scene, great food that now goes well beyond Tex-Mex and barbecue, Texas history and fun shopping and museums – all with less hassle than bigger cities in the US.

Here’s my guide to a long weekend there. In addition to picks for adults, I’ve included some recommendations for families that our kids (now teenagers) have loved through the years. And I’m vegetarian, so I’ve chosen some of the city’s best veggie eats options. Don’t worry, my meat-eating wife made sure that I included great barbecue choices, too.

Day 1: Pool party & pickles

Start your day with a walk or run on the trail at Town Lake (it’s officially labeled on maps as Lady Bird Lake, but locals refer to it as Town Lake). This 10-mile (16km) trail on both sides of a dammed portion of Texas’s Colorado River (a different Colorado River than the bigger and more famous one) is tree-shaded, beautiful and one of Austinites’ favorite places to exercise. If you have time, walk through Zilker Park, which is right next to the trail. If you have kids, go to the new and very fun playground at Butler Park, complete with a splash pad just up the path from the playground.

Austin was one of the cities that started the food truck scene in the US several decades ago, and now there are more than 2,000 food trucks in the city. Some are located in trailer parks that have multiple truck options and picnic table seating. After your morning at Town Lake and Zilker Park, have lunch at the Picnic food truck park, or the nearby original location of local favorite Chuy’s (the Tex-Mex chain is now expanding throughout the US). Other great lunch options include Green Mesquite and Carpenters Hall .

In the afternoon, go for a swim at Barton Springs Pool . Open year-round, this massive basin measures three acres and is fed by underground natural springs. It’s open throughout the day, and it’s free before 8am and after 9pm.

Head back to your hotel or Airbnb for a rest, and then get ready for dinner. Tonight is casual: barbecue at Terry Black’s , or if you’re vegan, the food truck Rollin Smoke for a fantastic vegan barbecue sandwich made with baby portobello mushrooms, spicy slaw, barbecue sauce and pickles. It’s my favorite vegan barbecue sandwich in Austin (who says you can’t have barbecue if you’re veggie?), and it’s located in a food truck park with beautiful old trees shading the tables. Rollin Smoke has very good meat options, too (I’m told).

If you have young children, head to Phil’s Icehouse . They have burgers and a full playground where the kids can play before or after dinner. Just don’t put them on the spinning flower after the meal. And be sure to get some ice-cream after dinner at Amy’s Ice Creams , a longtime favorite of Austinites. Amy’s is located next to Phil’s, and it’s so good we had an Amy’s truck serve dessert at our wedding.

After dinner, head out to see some music at one of Austin’s many local music venues. One of our favorites is the Continental Club . There’s a main club downstairs and the intimate Continental Gallery upstairs, where you can see local musicians in a cozy space. Other great venues include C-Boy’s and the new Moody Amphitheater . For full local music listings on any night, check the Austin Chronicle . And if it’s summer, look to see if Blues on the Green has a free concert that night. If you have kids, take them to the free Rock the Park concert series, produced by local radio station KUTX.

Day 2: Breakfast tacos, books & bats

Start your day back at the lake with a rowing workout that’s almost, but not quite, on the lake. Rō Fitness is a local studio that has outdoor rowing classes by the water. It’s way more fun than working out at an indoor studio.

You’ll need fuel after your workout. Grab a breakfast taco at Veracruz or Tacodeli or Tamale House East . Breakfast tacos are an Austin staple (they are to Austin as bagels are to New York), and all three of these places have delicious options.

Today is a shopping day. Start out at BookPeople , one of the greatest bookstores in the US. It’s locally owned and independent, but the size of a superstore. BookPeople also dares to take a stand on issues, including being one of two bookstores that recently sued Texas state officials over a newly passed book ban law. It has an excellent kids section, and organizes live readings by kids’ authors.

After you’ve gotten your book fix, head across the street to Waterloo Records , one of the best record stores in the US. Waterloo carries new and used vinyl, CDs and merchandise from rock to jazz to local Texas music. For more shopping options, head over to the stores along South Congress Avenue and South First Street (including Roadhouse Relics , a neon art store and gallery that is one of our favorites), and if you want to go thrifting, our teens say Austin Pets Alive Thrift and Texas Thrift are the best.

After all of the shopping, it’s time for lunch. If you’re near BookPeople and Waterloo, head over to Soup Peddler, a local place for homemade soups, smoothies and fantastic grilled cheese sandwiches (trivia: Soup Peddler got its name because the founder started out delivering homemade soup by bike before opening full store locations). Or if you’re near South Congress and South First, go to the food trucks on South First or Underdog or Fresa’s (which has a fun kids’ playground).

As you’re heading back to rest up, grab an ice-cream at Amy’s, a gelato at Dolce Neve or cupcakes at Sugar Mama’s .

Some good dinner options for tonight include Loro , Suerte or Este . And if you’re looking for a vegetarian option, one of my favorite veggie restaurants is Bouldin Creek Cafe . It’s casual, with a great menu that includes vegan chips and queso. If it’s nice out, take a seat on the patio.

Tonight’s activity could be going to see the bats at the Congress Street Bridge. Austin has the largest urban bat colony in North America, and in season they live in one of the bridges that crosses the Colorado River (they migrate to Mexico in the cooler weather). Bat-watching is a lot more fun than you might imagine from horror movies (and these bats look more like birds than vampire bats). If you’re not in the mood for bats, head to the legendary Broken Spoke . Get there early for dance lessons, then hoof it at this classic Texas honky-tonk.

Day 3: Live oaks & Lady Bird wildflowers

It’s your last day in Austin, and it’s a good one for visiting a museum. Some of our favorites include the Bullock Museum to learn all about the history of our state (bonus fact: Texas was once its own country , and some people want it to be its own country again ). If you’re a fan of 1960s history, visit the excellent LBJ Presidential Library , which is the home of the 36th president’s papers. It has good exhibits on the US civil rights movement and 1960s US history in general. Another excellent museum option is the Blanton Museum of Art , or you could tour the Texas capitol (Austin is, after all, the capital of Texas). If you’re a nature fan, head to the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center . And if you have kids, the Thinkery is an excellent children’s museum.

For lunch, it’s time for more barbecue (you’re in Austin, don’t fight it). Two terrific barbecue trucks are Mickelthwait and LeRoy and Lewis . And LeRoy and Lewis has another of my favorite vegetarian barbecue options: cauliflower burnt ends.

In the afternoon, head back to Town Lake. This time, get out on the water by renting a kayak, stand up paddleboard or paddle boat (a kid-friendly option). If you have time and energy for a drink, head over to the ABGB for happy hour. They have a great beer selection, lots of outdoor seating and local bands playing music.

For your farewell dinner, a few of our favorite restaurants that are a bit on the fancier end are Hestia , Uchi or the Lenoir wine garden, where dinner is served under live oak trees more than a hundred years old. And for a fantastic vegan option, go to Fabrik for a seven-course vegan tasting menu. You’ll need a reservation well in advance (they’re currently booking four to six weeks out). And for your final night in Austin, head out to another music venue. Or if you have kids, take them to the Austin favorite Peter Pan Mini Golf , which has been around for 75 years, or check Do512 Family for family events that are happening the dates you’re in town.

Question Time

When is the best time of year to visit austin.

There’s no dispute: it’s hot in the summer in Austin . A great time to visit is between October and May. From June through September, many days will be over 100F. If you’re here in the summer, spend lots of time at the Barton Springs pool.

Is Austin expensive?

Austin hotels can be expensive during big events like South by Southwest or the Formula One weekend. But for most dates, it’s less expensive than larger cities like New York, Los Angeles and San Francisco.

Will I need a car to get around Austin?

Most of the places that I’ve recommended are within walking distance from downtown. You can also rent bikes and scooters to get around. Austin’s public transportation is primarily through local buses, which can take you further out if needed. And car-share options are easy as well.

Steve Sachs is managing director of the Guardian US. He has worked at large and startup media companies for more than 20 years. He loves all kinds of music, and his most recent favorite concert, the Texas Songwriters Hall of Fame Show, featured a host of singer-songwriters including Lyle Lovett and Emmylou Harris

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Air-travel climate-change emissions detailed for nearly 200 nations

An inventory lists the aviation emissions of all 197 nations that are signatories to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change. Credit: Getty

Scientists have compiled the first estimate of the amount of greenhouse gases emitted by air travel in each of the 197 countries that signed the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change 1 .

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Is Southwest going to start assigning seats? CEO says the airline is weighing changes.

Southwest Airlines is considering doing away with open, single-class seating on its aircraft.

In an interview with CNBC , ahead of the airline’s first-quarter earnings call on Thursday, CEO Bob Jordan said the company is weighing options for cabin reconfiguration to address its recent revenue shortfall.

“We’re looking into new initiatives, things like the way we seat and board our aircraft,” Jordan told the network.

Southwest has long differentiated itself from other airlines with one class of seating and little variability – no extra legroom seats or first class on its 737 fleet. But now, Jordan said it may be time to change the strategy.

Cruising Altitude: Another Boeing plane issue? Don't fall for the headlines.

“Customer preferences do change over time,” he told CNBC. He acknowledged the airline hasn’t made any decisions on implementing a new strategy but said studies about what they could do have yielded “interesting” results. 

For now, the only reliable way for Southwest customers can get their seating preference is to pay extra for an earlier boarding position. Southwest Airlines does not currently assign seats and passengers claim their real estate as they board the plane in an assigned order. 

During Thursday's earnings call, Jordan confirmed the airline was exploring updates to its seating and boarding processes. He also announced Southwest would be ending service to Syracuse, New York; George Bush Intercontinental Airport in Houston (the airline will still serve William P. Hobby Airport); Cozumel, Mexico and Bellingham, Washington. Jordan cited underperformance in those markets as the reason for their closure.

Zach Wichter is a travel reporter for USA TODAY based in New York. You can reach him at [email protected].