travel sim or esim

Best eSIMs for travel of 2024

These eSIMs are easy to install and provide excellent network coverage

Best eSIM overall

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

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

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

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

What is an eSIM?

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

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

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

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

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

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

Why should I get an eSIM for international travel?

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

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

eSIMs are also generally more secure than physical SIMs since there’s no need to remove them in case you want to change your SIM card, so they practically can’t get lost. And if your phone gets lost or stolen, tracking it through the eSIM card is much easier since it cannot be removed from the device.

Note that international roaming works the same way on physical and eSIMS. The only difference that sets the two apart is that while you can add only two physical SIMs at a time, you can conveniently purchase an eSIM from a local carrier of the place you are visiting without losing your old numbers. This is especially handy when you are visiting multiple countries.

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

Is my phone compatible with eSIM?

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

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

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

The following are the latest models that support eSIM:

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

You can also use eSIMs on the following iPads:

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

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

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

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

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

Some popular Android phones that support eSIMs include:

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

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

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Top 10 eSIM providers for international travel

Our expert review:

Specifications

Reasons to buy, reasons to avoid.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Best eSIM for customizable plans

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Best eSIM for easy installation

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Best eSIM for value for money

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Best eSIM for security

5. Instabridge

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Best eSIM for network coverage

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

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

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

1. BNESIM Infinity Europe

2. BNESIM Infinity Asia

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

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

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

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

Best eSIM for unlimited data

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Best eSIM for global plans

8. GlobaleSIM

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

There are four broad plans that GlobaleSIM offers:

1. Most Popular Plan - available in 63 countries

2. Most Popular+ Plan - available in 93 countries

3. Special Plan - available in 115 countries

4. Special + Plan - available in 143 countries

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

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

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

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

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

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

Best eSIM for Europe

9. Holiday eSIM

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Best eSIM for data-only plans

10. Flexiroam

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

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

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

There are more than 700 eSIM plans to choose from. However, these plans aren’t as neatly categorized as some other providers. You’ll have to select from a long drop-down list when looking for individual country plans. Its regional plans are a mixed bag of chocolates. While there are two unique regional plans - Greater Europe and Greater China, I couldn’t find a regional plan for Asia that is offered by almost every other competitor. If you’re on an Asian trip, you’ll want to look at some other eSIMs on our list.

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

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

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

Best eSIMs for international travel FAQs

How to choose the best esim for international travel .

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

1. The place that you are traveling to

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

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

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

2. How much data will you need?

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

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

3. How long will you be abroad?

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

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

How do eSIM work?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

On turning on your phone, you will find a notification appearing that says "Carrier Cellular Plan Ready to Be Installed", tap on it.
If it doesn't pop up right away, In the Settings app, tap Carrier Cellular Plan Ready to Be Installed.
You will find a "Continue" at the bottom of the screen. After that, the plan must have been activated.
Make a call on your iPhone to check its cellular connectivity.
If you're unable to make the call, contact your carrier. If the plan you activated replaces the plan on your physical SIM, your eSIM has been activated. Now remove your physical SIM. Then restart your iPhone.

After this, your eSIM will actively run on your phone, and you can use it along with your physical SIM cards too. This will especially be appreciated by those who don't like to give away their phone numbers when traveling abroad.

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

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

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

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

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

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

How to set up and activate an eSIM on iOS

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

Note that Apple’s eSIM feature is not yet available in mainland China and a few parts of Hong Kong and Macao. These countries are still fully dependent on physical SIMs.

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

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

QR code support:

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

Are eSIM better than physical SIM cards?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Final verdict

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

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

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

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

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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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The loss of your smartphone can be disruptive and stressful. Taking a few simple steps ahead of time can make things easier if disaster strikes .

Many default settings make us share superfluous amounts of data with tech companies. Here’s how to shut those off .

The Best eSIMs for International Travel

If you're reading this, chances are you're a savvy traveler or a digital nomad looking for the best ways to stay connected while exploring the world .

And we're here to help you do just that.

In this article, we're going to dive into the world of eSIMs , the game-changing technology that's revolutionizing how we stay connected while traveling. We'll then go through the top 7 eSim providers you absolutely have to check out.

What is an eSIM?

eSIM stands for 'embedded SIM' , a newer type of SIM card that's built right into your smartphone, tablet, or smartwatch. Unlike traditional SIM cards that you physically insert into your device, an eSIM is already there, waiting to be activated.

It's a sort of virtual SIM card that can be programmed to work with various carriers without having to buy a new SIM card in each country . Pretty cool, right?

Why Use an eSIM as an International Traveler?

Now, you might be wondering, why should I switch to an eSIM? Let's break it down:

Advantages of Using an eSim

Convenience: No more fumbling with tiny SIM cards or hunting for paper clips or hearings to open SIM trays. With an eSIM, you can switch carriers or plans right from your device.
Flexibility: Traveling abroad? You can subscribe to a local data plan without swapping out your home SIM card. Say goodbye to outrageous roaming fees!
Space for Dual SIM: Many newer smartphones support both an eSIM and a physical SIM, allowing you to have two active phone numbers or data plans on the same device.

Disadvantages of Using an eSim

Limited Support: Not all carriers support eSIMs yet, so your options might be limited depending on where you are.
Device Compatibility: While more and more devices are starting to support eSIMs, not all do. So, make sure to check if your device is eSIM-compatible!

Are All Devices Compatible With eSIMs?

The short answer is no. Although most of the latest smartphone models support eSIMs, not all devices do, and some may have restrictions or limitations depending on the device, network, or plan. So, you should always check whether your device is compatible or not.

Below is a list of the most popular smartphones that support eSIM:

iOS devices

iPhone models: iPhone 15, iPhone 15 Plus, iPhone 15 Pro, iPhone 15 Pro Max, iPhone 14 / Pro / Pro Max, 13 / Pro / Pro Max / Mini, 12 / Pro / Pro Max / Mini, 11 / Pro / Pro Max, XS / XS Max, XR, and SE (versions from 2020 and 2022).
iPad models: iPad Air 6th generation, iPad Pro 12.9-inch 7th generation, iPad Air (3rd & 4th Generation), iPad Pro 11‑inch (1st, 2nd, and 3rd generation), iPad Pro 12.9‑inch (3rd, 4th, and 5th generation), iPad (7th, 8th, and 9th generation), and iPad Mini (5th and 6th generation).

Android devices

Samsung Galaxy models: Samsung Galaxy S24, S24+, S24, UltraS23, S23+, S23 Ultra, S22 Ultra 5G, S22+ 5G, S22 5G, S21 Ultra 5G, S21 5G, S21+ 5G, S20, S20+, Z Flip, Z Flip3 5G, Z Fold3, Z Fold2, Fold, Note 20 Ultra, Note 20+, and Note 20.
Google Pixel models : Pixel 8 /8 Pro, Pixel 7 / 7 Pro, Pixel 6 / 6a / 6 Pro, Pixel 5, Pixel 4/ 4a /4 XL / Pixel 3 / 3 XL / 3a, and 3a XL.
Motorola models : Razr 2022, Razr 2019 and Razr 5G.
Huawei models : P50 Series, P40, P40 Pro, Mate 40, and 50 Series.
OnePlus models : 11 5G
OPPO models: Find X3 Pro, Find X5, Find X5 Pro, and Reno A.
SONY models: Xperia 5 V (and beyond), Xperia 1 V (and beyond), Xperia 10 III Lite, Xperia 10 IV, and Xperia 1 IV.

Other brands:

Nuu Mobile X5
Gemini PDA 4G+Wi-Fi
Xiaomi 12T Pro (Global Version)
Fairphone 4
ZTE Axon 40 Ultra.

Now that you are comfortable with the eSIM technology and know what it is, let's see our top picks for the best eSIM providers in the market .

Best eSIMs for International Travel: Our Top Picks

Image: /content/images/2023/07/airalo-logo.webp
Title: Airalo
Description: Affordable, Best Overall
Target: 1-airalo
Price: 3-50
Link: https://airalo.pxf.io/PyjQ1z
Image: /content/images/2023/07/holafly-logo.png
Title: Holafly
Description: Most Customer-focused
Target: 2-holafly
Price: 19-47
Link: https://esim.holafly.com/?ref=y2u0ntk&discount=FREAKINGNOMADS&utm_source=freakingnomads&utm_medium=affiliation
Image: /content/images/2023/07/nomad-logo-black.webp
Title: Nomad
Description: Wide Variety of Plans
Target: 3-nomad
Price: 6-99
Link: https://www.getnomad.app/?rfsn=7460813.661b80&ref=freakingnomads.com
Image: /content/images/2023/07/alosim-logo.png
Title: aloSIM
Description: Instant Global Data
Target: 4-alosim
Price: 5-50
Link: https://alosim.com/?_ef_transaction_id=&oid=3&affid=70&ref=freakingnomads.com
Image: /content/images/2023/12/gigsky-esim--3--1.webp
Title: Gigsky
Description: Most Flexible
Target: 5-gigsky
Price: 5-175
Link: https://gigsky.pxf.io/q4L0zN
Image: /content/images/2023/07/bne-logo.png
Title: BNESIM
Description: Best for International Numbers
Target: 6-bnesim
Price: 9-99
Link: https://bnes.im/8JBE
Image: /content/images/2023/07/sim-options-logo.png
Title: SimOptions
Description: Most Comprehensive Choice
Target: 7-simoptions
Price: 9-49
Link: https://www.simoptions.com/?utm_medium=wpam_id_526

Airalo is making waves in the eSIM world with its affordable and flexible plans. Offering local, regional, and global plans for over 200 countries , Airalo has got you covered whether you're planning a quick getaway or a long-term adventure. You can choose from short-term or long-term options , tailoring your plan to your travel needs. Navigating their services is super easy with their user-friendly app and website, where you can buy and manage your eSIM plans.

Key Information

Coverage: 200 countries, including South & North America, Europe, Asia, Africa, and Oceania. Personal hotspotting and tethering allowed? Yes, as long as your device and the network support it. You may need to set up the APN settings for your eSIM to enable this feature.

How To Install Airalo eSim

Airalo installation instructions: 1. Download the app, 2. Choose your destination and package, 3. Install your eSIM, 4. Activate your eSIM

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

Next up is Holafly , a fantastic choice for those heading to the United States , where they offer unlimited data plans . But don't worry if you're not U.S.-bound; Holafly also has plans for Europe, Asia, Africa, and Oceania . With competitive prices and good coverage, Holafly is a strong contender in the eSIM market. They also shine in customer service, providing 24/7 support and free shipping of physical SIM cards if you prefer the traditional route.

Coverage: Over 130 destinations, including unlimited data plans in some countries. Personal hotspotting and tethering allowed? Some of their eSIM plans, but not all of them.

How to Install Holafly eSIM

Holafly installation instructions: 1. Check uour phone is compatible with eSIM, 2. Buy your eSIM, 3. Scan the QR code

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

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

If variety is what you're after, Nomad might be the eSIM provider for you. They offer a range of country and global plans and even unlimited data plans in some destinations. Nomad covers over 110 countries , giving you plenty of options for your travels. Their plans are flexible, allowing you to activate or pause them anytime, perfect for the unpredictable nature of travel. Plus, their sleek app and website make managing your eSIM plans easy and convenient.

Coverage: 110 countries, including the United States, Europe, Asia, Africa, and Oceania. Personal hotspotting and tethering allowed? Some of their eSIM plans, but not all of them.

How To Install Nomad eSIM

Nomad installation instructions: 1. Bui a data plan, 2. Installa the eSIM, 3. Activate your plan

aloSIM is another global eSIM provider that's making international data access easy to access worldwide. Offering instant eSIM travel data in over 170 countries , Alosim ensures you stay connected no matter where your journey takes you. You can choose from various prepaid eSIM data packages that suit your travel needs and budget. They also have a free app which makes shopping, managing, and activating your eSIM plans just a few taps away. Plus, their sister app Hushed helps aloSIM users avoid roaming fees and use private numbers for calling/texting, all powered by their aloSIM eSIM data.

Coverage: aloSIM provides coverage in over 170 countries worldwide. Personal hotspotting and tethering allowed: Yes, as long as it is supported by your device and the network.

How to Install aloSIM eSIM

Next up is GigSky , an eSIM provider with a global reach that are known to be the first Apple eSIM partner . Offering hassle-free, reliable mobile data services in over 190 countries , GigSky stands out for its flexibility. Whether you're a day-tripper or a long-haul explorer, they have data plans that suit your travel needs, lasting from a day to a month. Plus, GigSky is not just about keeping you connected on land – they also offer inflight and offshore connectivity solutions , letting you work, browse, or stream even in the middle of the ocean or thousands of feet up in the air. But what sets GigSky apart is that they are a full MVNO (mobile virtual network operator), meaning they monitor the network and can reroute your data if something goes wrong, something most other eSIM providers can't offer.

Coverage: Over 190 countries worldwide. Personal hotspotting and tethering allowed: Yes, as long as it's supported by your device and the network.

How to Install GigSky eSIM

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

Another eSIM company that makes our list is BNESIM , an eSIM provider that offers plans in over 170 countries . With international phone numbers, unlimited data packages, and monthly subscriptions, BNESIM provides a comprehensive solution for your international travel abroad . Plus, their app makes it easy to buy and manage your eSIM plans, so you can focus on just enjoying your travels instead of queuing at the airport or finding the closest telco shop near you to find a physical SIM for calls.

Coverage: Over 170 countries worldwide. Personal hotspotting and tethering allowed? No. They don't offer this option.

How to Install BNESIM eSIM on Android

How to Install BNESIM eSIM on iPhone

7. SimOptions

Last but not least, we have SimOptions. SimOptions is not a provider per se but it's a one-stop shop for international prepaid SIM cards and eSIMs around the world. With plans in over 200 destinations , SimOptions offers a wide range of local and regional options to fit your travel needs and budget. Whether you're planning a multi-country European tour or a secluded island getaway, SimOptions has got you covered.

Coverage: Over 200 destinations, including the UK, US, Africa, Europe, South America, Asia and Oceania. Personal hotspotting and tethering allowed? Yes, as long as it is supported by your device and the network.

How to Install SimOptions eSIM

SimOptions eSIM installation instructions: Install your eSIM manually or with QR Code or Install eSIM without QR Code on Android and iOS

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

So, What's the Best eSim Provider Then?

Based on our extensive experience as digital nomads, we highly recommend Airalo and Holafly .

These providers have proven to be the most reliable in our travels , offering extensive coverage, flexible plans, and excellent customer service.

We often find ourselves switching between Airalo and Holafly, depending on the situation. Airalo is our go-to for its affordability and wide coverage (over 200 countries!), making it a great choice for short-term trips or visits to multiple countries. On the other hand, Holafly shines with its variety of country and global plans , as well as unlimited data plans in some destinations , making it ideal for longer stays or when we need a consistent, high-quality connection.

However, it's important to remember that there is no "best" eSIM provider. You should test them all and see which one best fits your needs, keeping in mind factors such as your destination, the length of your trip, your data needs, and your budget.

We encourage you to explore your options , try out different providers, and find the one that best suits your travel needs. After all, the world of eSIMs is all about flexibility and convenience, so don't be afraid to find the perfect match for your nomad adventures.

Frequently Asked Questions About eSims

How does esim technology work.

An eSIM, or embedded SIM, is a digital SIM card. Instead of a physical card, the eSIM technology is built right into your device. It's programmed to work with various carriers, allowing you to switch between networks without needing to swap out physical SIM cards.

What is an eSIM profile?

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

How many profiles can I have on an eSIM?

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

How do I activate my eSIM?

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

Is the activation immediate?

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

When will I receive my eSIM?

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

Where can I find my eSIM activation code?

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

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

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

Is my device compatible with an eSIM?

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

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

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

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

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

Are eSIMs more sustainable?

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

Can my prepaid eSIM incur additional charges?

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

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Wise Travel Debit Card Review: Fees, Exchange Rates, Limits and How to Use It

How to set up and manage an esim on iphone, digital nomad internet: best wifi options for remote work anywhere.

13 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 explain the differences between a local prepaid sim card and a global travel sim card. Then I 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.

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. Unfortunately in most countries you can not buy a local prepaid sim card as an e-sim card, you will have to buy an international e-sim card on the internet. But it is very easy.

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.

Prepaid tourist sim cards vs. international sim cards

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!

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 an Orange Holiday World sim card , a Three UK sim card or a Discover Global e-sim card for traveling the world in 2024.

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

Keep in mind that I am an exception and I literally travel 365 days a year. For example in 2022 I visited a total of 62 countries!

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 cheaper than Airalo and SimOptions I started using them too. It depends on where I am traveling.

International sim card comparison

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 Discover Global E-sim card
Best sim card for Central America: Three UK
Best sim card for South America: Three UK or Discover Global E-sim card
Best sim card for Africa: Orange Holiday World & Discover Global E-sim card
Best sim card for Asia: 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.

13 Best International Sim Cards with Data

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.

Orange does offer amazing e-sim cards for traveling to multiple countries, but only for 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 .

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 .

2. 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

airalo discover global international data only esim cards

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

airalo discover global international esim cards with calls

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 .

3. 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 50+ countries. Pretty much all of Europe and East Asia plus Australia, New Zealand and USA

Europe: Albania, Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Portugal, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Turkey, United Kingdom, Vatican City.

Asia: Bangladesh, China, Hong Kong, India, Indonesia, Israel, Japan, Kazachstan, Kuwait, Kyrgyzstan, Macau, Malaysia, Myanmar, Philippines, South Korea, Taiwan, Thailand, Uzbekistan, Vietnam.

Pacific: Australia, New Zealand.

Americas: USA.

This 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, but some countries like Poland, Romania, Russia, Slovakia, Ukraine and several Balkan countries are missing.

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
15 GB data for 30 days = $25 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.

Their 15 GB data pack for $25 USD is not bad and a great e-sim card for traveling in Asia. However, for Europe there are cheaper e-sim cards available for that same price. Check out my 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.

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 cards offer.

For more info check out the Jetpack website .

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 .

7. 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.

surf roam international sim card data roaming

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 .

9. 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 .

10. 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.

prices travelsim international sim card 2

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 .

11. 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 .

12. 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.

13. 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 .

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 March 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!

sim card europe
europe sim card
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Complete Guide: Best eSIM For International Travel

by Melissa Giroux | Last updated Jan 24, 2024 | SIM Cards , Travel Tips

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

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

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

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

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

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

Quick Overview Best Travel eSIMs

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

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

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

❓ What Is An eSIM?

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

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

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

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

❓Which Devices Are Compatible With eSIM?

eSIM is currently supported on a few devices, including:

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

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

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

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

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

🗒️ How To Choose The Best eSIM Provider For International Travel

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

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

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

❓ Where To Buy An International eSIM?

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

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

So, how do you pick an eSIM provider?

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

Airalo eSIM

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

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

Here’s how Airalo works:

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

Go to Airalo

Pros And Cons Of Using Airalo To Buy eSIM

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

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

Airalo Offer

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

Get A Discount Now

Holafly eSIM

Holafly is an eSIM provider with eSIM plans for more than 170 destinations.

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

Here’s how Holafly works:

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

Go to Holafly

Pros And Cons Of Using Holafly To Buy eSIM

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

eSIMs are delivered via email immediately.
Plans available for more than 130 countries.
Supports both short-term and long-term plans.
Offers lots of options with unlimited data.
The customer support is fast (they answered me in 19 minutes).
You get unlimited data plans in several countries and regions, which is excellent if you are a heavy user. However, some users reported that the speed could vary. This could mean you’ll get high speed first, and eventually, you’ll get a slower speed if you use too much data.
You can’t always set up a hotspot with some plans, but some of them offer it. It’s worth checking out if you’re planning on using a hotspot.

Holafly Offer

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

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

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

I’ve tried Nomad, and it worked well.

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

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

Here’s how Nomad works:

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

Go to Nomad

Pros And Cons Of Using Nomad To Buy eSIM

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

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

Nomad Offer

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

SimCorner eSIM

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

I’ve tried SimCorner, and it worked great.

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

Learn more by reading our SimCorner review .

Here’s how SimCorner works:

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

Go to SimCorner

Pros And Cons Of Using SimCorner To Buy eSIM

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

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

SimCorner Offer

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

Maya Mobile eSIM

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

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

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

Learn more by reading our Maya Mobile review .

Here’s how Maya Mobile works:

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

Go to Maya Mobile

Pros And Cons Of Using Maya Mobile To Buy eSIM

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

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

Maya Mobile Offer

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

SimOptions eSIM

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

How SimOptions works:

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

Go to SimsOptions

Pros And Cons Of Using SimOptions To Buy eSIM

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

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

SimsOptions Offer

There are no offers at the moment.

BNESIM eSIM

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

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

Here’s how BNESIM works:

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

Go to BNESIM

Pros And Cons Of Using BNESIM To Buy ESIM

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

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

BNESIM Offer

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

Yoho Mobile eSIM

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

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

Here’s how Yoho Mobile works:

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

Go to Yoho Mobile

Pros And Cons Of Using Yoho Mobile To Buy ESIM

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

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

Yoho Mobile Offer

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

Manet Travel eSIM

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

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

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

Go to Manet Travel

Pros And Cons Of Using Manet Travel To Buy eSIM

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

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

Manet Travel Offer

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

AloSIM eSIM

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

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

Here’s how aloSIM works:

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

Go to aloSIM

Pros And Cons Of Using aloSIM To Buy ESIM

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

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

AloSIM Offer

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

GigSky eSIM

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

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

Here’s how GigSky works:

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

Go to GigSky

Pros And Cons Of Using GigSky To Buy ESIM

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

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

GigSky eSIM Offer

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

Instabridge eSIM

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

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

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

Learn more by reading our Instabridge review .

Here’s how Instabridge works:

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

Go to Instabridge

Pros And Cons Of Using Instabridge To Buy eSIM

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

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

Instabridge Offer

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

Holiday eSIM

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

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

Here’s how Holiday eSIM works:

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

Go to Holiday eSIM

Pros And Cons Of Using Holiday eSIM To Buy ESIM

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

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

Holiday eSIM Offer

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

Onesim eSIM

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

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

Here’s how Onesim works:

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

Go to Onesim

Pros And Cons Of Using Onesim To Buy ESIM

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

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

Onesim Offer

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

Best Global eSIM Providers

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

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

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

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

Airalo Discover Global eSIM

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

Here’s an overview of the plans available:

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

You’ll also find options with calls and SMS.

Nomad Global eSIM

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

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

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

Instabridge Global eSIM

Instabridge offers a global plan that works in 112 countries.

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

Holiday eSIM World

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

Here’s an overview of the plan available:

10 GB, valid for 14 days for $44.10

Manet Travel Global eSIMs

Manet Travel offers various global eSIMs.

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

Best eSIM Providers For Europe

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

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

Airalo Eurolink eSIM

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

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

Holafly Europe eSIM

Holafly has great European plans that work in 32 countries. It’s interesting because they come with unlimited data.

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

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

Nomad Europe eSIM

Nomad also offers plans in Europe .

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

SimCorner Europe eSIM

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

Here’s an overview of the eSIM plan available :

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

Maya Mobile Europe eSIM

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

Here’s an overview of the plans available :

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

BNESIM Europe eSIM

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

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

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

Yoho Mobile Europe eSIM

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

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

Manet Travel Europe eSIM

Manet Travel offers various European plans.

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

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

Onesim Europe eSIM

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

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

There’s currently an offer on the European plan.

SimOptions Europe eSIM

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

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

AloSIM Europe eSIM

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

Eastern Europe
Western Europe
Mediterranean
Scandinavia
UK and Ireland

Holiday eSIM Europe

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

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

Best eSIM Providers For North America

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

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

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

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

Holafly North America eSIM

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

6 GB, valid for 15 days for $54

SimCorner USA, Canada, And Mexico

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

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

Manet Travel North America

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

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

Onesim USA And Mexico

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

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

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

SimOptions North America eSIM

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

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

AloSIM North America eSIM

AloSIM offers 4 different plans in North America:

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

Best eSIM Plans Available In Asia

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

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

Airalo Asialink eSIM

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

Holafly Asia eSIM

Holafly has great Asia plans that work in 12 countries.

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

8 GB, valid for 30 days for $47

Nomad Asia eSIM

Nomad also offers plans in Asia .

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

SimCorner Asia eSIM

SimCorner offers one eSIM plan in Asia :

6 GB, valid for 15 days for $36

Maya Mobile Asia eSIM

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

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

BNESIM Asia eSIM

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

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

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

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

Yoho Mobile Asia eSIM

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

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

Manet Travel offers eSIMs for Asia.

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

Onesim Asia eSIM

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

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

6 GB, valid for 8 days for $16.90

SimOptions Asia eSIM

SimOptions offers plans from different carriers.

6 GB, valid for 12 days for $19.90

AloSIM Asia eSIM

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

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

Benefits Of Using An eSIM For International Travel

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

Here are the main reasons why I love using eSIM:

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

woman using data abroad with her esim card

Final Thoughts On The Best eSIM Providers For International Travel

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

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

Yoho Mobile
Manet Travel

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

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

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

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

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

Holafly vs Airalo
Wise vs Revolut
Revolut travel card
Safetywing review

MY TOP RECOMMENDATIONS

BOOK HOTEL ON BOOKING.COM

BOOK HOSTEL ON HOSTELWORLD

GET YOUR TRAVEL INSURANCE

LEARN HOW TO START A TRAVEL BLOG

LEARN HOW TO VOLUNTEER ABROAD

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.

Travel recommendations
The taste of travel
Tips & tricks
Travel experiences

A guide on how to use an eSIM for international travel

Planning a trip abroad? Then you’ll need to figure out how to stay connected while you’re away. Before, I’d buy pricey physical SIMs, but not anymore. Now, I rely on eSIMs for international travel.

My guide will tell you everything you need to know about eSIMs, from how they work to the benefits they offer. Staying connected has never been easier.

In this post

What is an eSIM card?

How does an esim card work, which esim should you choose for international travel, benefits of using an esim for international travel, are there specific esim cards for european travel, how to set up your esim for international travel.

An eSIM is like a digital SIM card inside your phone. It lets your phone connect to a local mobile network and set up a cell plan, all without needing a physical SIM card. Unlike regular SIM cards, you don’t need to take it out or switch to a new one.

eSIM cards can be used for smartphones, tablets, smartwatches, cars, and even drone cameras. Of all the international travel tips and hacks , having access to the internet is one of the most important, which is why eSIMs are such an essential travel tool.

A curly-haired woman in a black hoodie holds her phone as she stands on a sidewalk.

The first thing to do is check if your device is eSIM compatible. Navigate to the “Mobile Data” or “Cellular” settings on your phone. If your device supports eSIM, you should see an option to add or manage an eSIM profile.

If your smartphone is eSIM compatible, choose between your domestic network provider or an international provider in the country you are visiting. Apply for the eSIM plan that works best for your needs – all you need to do is create your profile (just make sure you’re in a Wi-Fi zone when you do it), activate it, and start using the network services.

You can choose from two options:

An eSIM from your domestic network provider.
An international service provider specific to the country you’re landing in.

The choice depends on your needs and how much you’re willing to spend. If you go with your own mobile provider’s eSIM, you will have the same plan as with your physical SIM. If you buy an eSIM from an international provider, you’ll have to pick a new data and calls plan that reflects your needs on that trip. But remember, this plan will only work in the country you’re visiting. Prices and packages vary, so it’s important to pick the plan that best reflects what you’re looking for.

Using an eSIM is much easier than having to buy a physical SIM card when traveling, and allows you to connect to the internet immediately – particularly useful when you’re trying to book a cab from the airport, look up a location on Google Maps or check local train times. But those aren’t the only advantages of using an eSIM.

It is impossible to lose or damage your eSIM because it is a virtual SIM. They’re designed in a way that means it’s almost impossible to hack them. Also, unlike physical SIM cards, they can’t be stolen or broken.

A woman using her smartphone while standing on a busy sidewalk with the blurry dazzling light in the background.

Seamless integration

You don’t have to remove your physical SIM to get your eSIM to work. Both of them can co-exist on the same device at the same time, meaning you can still receive calls and texts through your original SIM while abroad.

Versatility

They can be used with smartwatches and tablets for tracking and general internet usage. I love the fact that my iWatch still shows me calls and messages when I’m using an eSIM card.

There are two types of eSIMs available for European travel: ones specific to a single country, and others that cover multiple countries.

My personal recommendation is Airalo . I have bought it a couple of times before, and I’m planning to buy it on my next trip as well. Its Europe eSIM offers six different plans in the form of Eurolink and can be used in 39 countries.
If you’re looking for calling and SMS services along with internet usage, try SimOptions ’ Europe eSIM. Depending on your needs, you can choose the right plan from their list of options.
Nomad is another great choice. It has two types of eSIM: a 30 country plan and a 35 country plan. Both categories offer multiple data and calling options and plans start from $5 offering 1GB data.

Using an eSIM for international travel is easy and it takes just three steps to set one up.

1. Purchase an eSIM data plan

To buy an eSIM online, visit the provider’s website, choose your plan, and make the payment. All the above-mentioned eSIMs are available for online purchase.

Expert tip : Buy your eSIM for international travel before leaving your home country, to make sure you can use it as soon as you land.

2. Check your email for the QR code to activate it

Make sure you’re in a Wi-Fi zone so you can open your mailbox, where you will get an email containing a unique QR code. Scan it and it will take you to the eSIM installation page.

The best hack is to do it at the airport, because you can use the airport’s free Wi-Fi.

3. Install your carrier’s eSIM application

Click on the ‘Install on my device’ prompt to give access to your phone. Once it’s installed, you’ll be able to access the app where you can click on the activate button to start your mobile services.

Bottom line: eSIM is the new travel essential

Thanks to its flexibility, convenience, and safety, traveling internationally with an eSIM is a game-changer. Whether you’re a frequent globetrotter or an occasional explorer, the freedom and reliability offered by eSIMs make them an indispensable travel accessory.

Both seasoned travelers and those just starting out on their adventures abroad can trust KAYAK’s travel guides. Read about what is not allowed on a plane carry-on , learn some expert travel packing tips , or discover the difference between Premium Economy and Economy .

How does KAYAK know what to put in this guide

Having traveled to multiple countries around the world, I prefer buying a local eSIM card to stay connected. I am a digital nomad and I work everywhere, use a lot of maps, food delivery services, socializing apps, and social media to upload pictures, so access to the internet is a must at all times.

This guide is a blend of research and first-hand experience, as well as some great suggestions from the KAYAK team dedicated to facilitating travel.

Young Asian business woman going on a business trip. Business and leisure travel.

Frequent questions about eSIM for international travel

Yes, it helps you keep your physical SIM safe and allows you to access several network profiles for different countries.

Yes, it is advisable to install an eSIM before traveling. However, you can do it wherever you have Wi-Fi access.

Depending on the mobile plan you choose, you can make calls, send SMS, and use the internet.

It can be difficult to switch devices and they are available only on premium smartphones and electronic devices.

Yes, European eSIM cards are different, as they include more than 30 countries in one plan.

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Home » Gear » What Is The Best eSim To Use For Travel and Backpacking? UPDATED For 2024

What Is The Best eSim To Use For Travel and Backpacking? UPDATED For 2024

Like it or not, smartphones are now an essential travel accessory and even many pro backpackers would be lost without them. Staying connected when we hit the road is simply an integral part of the modern travel experience.

But buying and inserting foreign sims can be a real pain in the bruised and bothered back-sheesh. Thankfully though, the rise of eSim now means that the tyrannical days of plastic sim hegemony are over…or at least for some of us…

In this post, we are going to take a look at eSim and how it works. We will also examine a few different eSim packages and try to ascertain, what is the best eSim for travel and backpacking.

The Best eSim For Travel

$$ > Excellent coverage

Best eSim For Europe

$$$ > Works all over Europe

Best eSim Store

$ > Compare different eSim deals

Why You Need Your Phone To Travel in 2024

I’ll be honest with you, when I go on holiday I am usually looking to get away from my normal, day to day life and escape my mundane routine. Ideally , that would also mean getting away from my phone for a few weeks. Truly I tell you, nothing would make me happier than locking it away in a drawer for a few weeks and heading out on an adventure (even if that’s a Cocktail flavoured adventure to the nearest sunlounger).

But in reality, that is just not gonna happen because in 2024, phones are almost as essential for travel as passports are. Not convinced? Well you should be because the average traveller now uses their phone for downloading boarding passes, handling travel banking, ordering safe and reliable foroegn taxis and of course to take care of the in-flight tunes playlist. And that’s before even thinking about using the blasted camera!

Not only does the contemporary traveller need their phone in order to travel, but that phone also needs to be connected to the internet. And as you probably already know, the moment you leave your native country, your data will stop working the moment you cross an international border. Therefore we wrote this post today to help you stay connected.

First Up, What Even is eSim?

Why esim rocks, who can use esim, what is the best esim package, final thoughts on choosing the best esim.

Before we look at the best eSIMs for travel , let’s look at what they are first!

So what is eSim? Ok, in case you didn’t guess this already, eSim is an electronic, non-physical sim; a sim card without a sim card. Instead of opening up your phone and slotting in a new tiny little plastic sim, you simply download the e-Sim package onto your phone just as you would an app or piece of software.

Once it gets working, it allows you to make calls, receive texts and get online in (more or less) the same way as a regular, old fashioned sim.

In case you are wondering how this wonder of magic works, the answer is simply that the circuit board that an old fashioned sim uses in order to work as a sim, is already installed inside your phone!

a girl working on her laptop in a cafe with a view of rice fields in Bali behind her

eSim is superior to non-esim in pretty much every way. Let us run through a few of the main advantages;

No Need To Buy a Sim

With eSim, you no longer need to go to a store to buy a sim. You don’t need to open your phone, and you don’t need to dispose of tiny bits of plastic matter . Now you can buy your eSim from the comfort of your own toilet seat.

Buy Before You Fly

Many travellers begin their vacations by queuing up at the airport phone kiosks to buy a local sim. Well with eSim you no longer need to do that because you buy, download and activate your eSim before you leave home so it is ready to use the moment you land (or at least the moment the seatbelt sign turns off!).

Keep Your Native Number

Because there is no physical sim slot, eSim allows you to run multiple different sims simultaneously(ish). Basically, you can use the eSim package for your travel destination for data and local calls, whilst also keeping your native phone number in for receiving calls from back home (although note that the eye watering overseas call charges may apply).

If your bank passwords are linked to your native phone number, then this function of eSim makes your travel banking a whole lot easier.

No More Plastic

You may well never have thought about this, but sim cards are an environmental disaster. Firstly, the chips need to be mined and extracted from the earth, and they are then encased in plastic before ending up in the sea!

The ocean is full of discarded sims some of which will presumably have been used for short little weekend breaks by otherwise eco-conscious travellers like me and you.

eSim means to have no more plastic sims. Yay!

Chicks Dig eSims

Most guys presume that if they were rich enough to drive a Ferrari, then the girls would be queuing up to date them. Well, I’ll tell you what impresses the ladies even more than sports cars? It’s eSim. Seriously fellas, as soon as word gets out that you are packing eSim, you’ll be beating back the honeys with a shitty-shovel.

eSim is open to everybody regarldess of age, gender, religion or sexual prefernce as long as you have the right phone . Seriously whilst eSim does not discriminate on grounds of immutable identity characteristics, it quite brazenly and shamelessly discriminates on the basis of what phone is in your pocket!

Basically, that crappy old Nokia 2320 you still like to use, is simply not eSim ready. In fact, only the more modern and recent generation of phones and devices are actually eSim ready. Pretty much any phone made prior to 2019 is unlikely to be eSim compatible on the grounds that it lacks the aforementioned magical eSim chip. Sorry about that.

My iPhone 8 was NOT eSim compatible and I was only recently able to try eSim for myself when I updated to the iPhone 12. I know that a lot of you reading this still use iPhones 11’s and Samsung ?? but unfortunately, these phones are not able to access the joys of eSim.

The following devices ARE eSim ready;

(The base iPhone X and anything older is not eSIM compatible)
iPhone 11, 11 Pro, and 11 Pro Max
iPhone 12, 12 Pro, 12 Pro Max, 12 Mini & iPhone SE 2020
iPhone 13, 13 Pro, 13 Mini
Samsung Galaxy Fold & Galaxy Fold 2 / Galaxy Z Flip & Z Flip 5G
Samsung Galaxy S20, S20+, S20 Ultra / Galaxy Note 20
Samsung Galaxy S21 5G, S21+ 5G, S21 Ultra 5G
Google Pixel 3, Pixel 3XL, Pixel 4, Pixel 4XL, Pixel 4a (4G), Pixel 5 (5G), and Pixel 6
Huawei P40 and P40 Pro & Mate 40 Pro

In this section, we will help you to identify which is the best possible travel eSim for your next trip.

Choosing The Right eSim

Before you go off and buy an eSim for your trip, there are a few different things to bear in mind.

Whilst it probably goes without saying that you probably want the maximum amount of data and calls for the minimum price, there is more to choosing a travel eSim than this.

Try to identify how much network coverage the provider offers. I mean, your eSim is going to be of little use to you if it struggles to connect. This is particularly pertinent when choosing an eSim for a destination like Greece where the networks who serve the mainland may not be the same networks who seric the islands.

Something else to bear in mind is that some eSim providers offer data-only packages – that means they don’t come with a local phone number. This may be perfectly fine for some uses, but others may want a local number in order to be able to make and receive calls.

Other providers, like Yesim provide eSIM packages for over 120 countries, in addition to a virtual phone numbers. I definitely recommend Yesim eSIM !

OneSim is long established as our personal favourite provider of travel sim cards and eSims. Basically, OneSim were providing multi region, international sim cards long before it became fashionable and have years of experience in helping travellers stay connected.

In terms of their eSim offerings, their most notable product offering is the OneSim eSim world package which works in pretty much every single travel destination you can shake a bommeraring at.

The package costs $9.95 to download and then you have to pay separately for your chosen data package the prices of which vary between destinations. While paying $9.95 simply for the package may seem like a wee bit of a con, bear in mind that all eSims have a download fee priced into the package you buy. And remember that because OneSim works all over the world you will probably never have to download another eSim again and that $9.95 may be the only download fee you ever need to pay again.

OneSim is definitely catering for long term, multi-country or frequent travellers and may not be the best option for your average, 2 week vacation in a year type traveller.

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

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

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

The Spanish based eSim specialist HolaFly offers excellent and fairly priced e-sim packages for 110 countries and counting. HolaFly achieves this by partnering-up with an international network of local carriers to offer travellers like thee and me reliable, accessible data packages.

To browse, compare and shop for HolaFly’s eSim packages , you just head to their website or download the HolaFly app (both can be found by hitting the button below) and then search for the destination you are travelling to.

If HolaFly currently covers the destination (and they already cover most popular travel destinations) and all of the relevant information such as price, data amount and expiry periods is clearly set out.

Note that at this time an HolaFly eSim package does not come with a native phone number so you won’t be able to make calls.

The reason we love HolaFly is because the HolaFLy eSim for Europe package covers a whole number of different European destinations such as Spain, France, Germany, Portugal or Switzerland, working seamlessly across 40 countries in Europe. You can even get Holafly in Mexico now.

Nomad is a digital eSIM marketplace that connects global travellers with affordable data plans anywhere in the world – note that Nomad do not actually provide the eSim or data package themselves, they simply help to match prospective customers with the best provider for their needs.

To use Nomad , you can just browse the Nomad website’s eStore and look for suitable eSim packages, but users will often get a better browsing experience if they download the Nomad app onto their device.

Airalo may actually be the world’s first eSim store and offer some data coverage in over 190 countries.

Like HolaFly, Airalo offers a lot of different packages for the destinations they cover as well as some regional packages and a global package too. It is definitely worth checking out their store to see what they can offer.

Airalo do offer some very tempting price plans – in particular their Europe package begins at $5 for 1GB.

Want to know more? We’ve put together a comprehensive Airalo eSim review just for you!

The telecommunications giant Orange is one of the largest phone networks in Europe and as such, they have great coverage almost everywhere in Europe. The Orange network is so substantial that even the above-mentioned providers such as OneSim and HolaFly often rely on the Orange network to actually power their packages.

The Orange packages that I browsed are not necessarily the best value but they do tend to offer a local phone number with calls and texts as standard.

By now you should hopefully know all about what eSim is and how it works. eSim is set to truly revolutionise travel communication forever by making it easier to get connected. While not all phones in circulation are yet eSim ready, the ones that are have access to an unprecedented raft of extensive, eco-friendly and affordable sim packages.

So wherever you are headed for your next trip, why not give eSim a try?

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

Aiden Freeborn

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Best esim for europe travel | everything you need to know about european prepaid esim data plans.

A guide to everything you need to know about using eSIM data plans while traveling through Europe.

phones and technology

When most people want high-speed mobile data for their phone while traveling to Europe they’ve traditionally bought a physical SIM card. However, many newer phones have an embedded electronic SIM (i.e. eSIM) that allows you to connect to European mobile carriers without needing to install a physical SIM card. These new eSIM data plans offer travelers a ton of convenience but there are a few quirks as well. That’s why in this article I’m going to cover everything you need to know about eSIM data plans in Europe—including tips for finding the best eSIM for Europe travel.

What You’ll See In This eSIM Guide

Do I Even Need Mobile Data In Europe?
Can I Just Use My Mobile Plan’s Internation Data Plan?
What Is an eSIM?

The Benefits of eSIM Mobile Data Plans

What iphones use esim cards, what android phones use esim cards, the best esim data plans for europe, how to activate an esim data plan, how much mobile data do you need when traveling europe, buying an esim in europe, more tips for using an esim data plan in europe, do you need mobile data in europe.

Backpacking Europe packing list - Rain Jackets

Honestly, yes, you need mobile data on your phone when traveling to Europe. Sure, you can sometimes find free wifi hotspots but that’s way more difficult than you’d think (I know from experience).

And so much of modern European life requires high-speed mobile data—train tickets are digital, Google Maps needs reliable data, sporting event tickets are digital, restaurant menus are accessed via QR codes, Uber/rideshare apps require data, some restaurants now want you to pay via your phone, accessing real-time public transportation info relies on mobile data, and the list goes on.

Can You Use Your Mobile Provider’s International Data Plan?

US/Canadian/Australian domestic mobile providers often offer an international data plan (either free or for an extra charge) but they all come with a few major drawbacks:

They’re expensive: Expect to pay $10-$20/day
Slow speeds : You’re often downgraded to 2G/3G speeds so even opening basic webpages could take forever to load (if it even loads). Many apps won’t function. Google Maps won’t work. Forget about social media.
Data caps: These plans might start you off with standard 4G/LTE speeds but once you hit 1-2GB of data you’ll be downgraded to nearly-unusable 3G/2G speeds.
Auto Enrollment: Some plans automatically enroll you in their international data plan the moment your phone tries to access data—which is just about every phone since smartphone apps are constantly running in the background.

For example, the AT&T International Day Pass costs $10/day. They also have their AT&T Passport plan, a monthly plan that’s either $70/month for 2 GB of data or $140/month for 6 GB. Then they charge an insane overage of $30 per GB. Verizon also has a $10/day pass but they knock you down to 3G speeds after 2GB each day.

And many T-Mobile customers get free “unlimited” international data but you’re only guaranteed 2g data speeds after you hit a total usage of 5GB of data… which will struggle to load Google Maps or even email. T-Mobile gives you the option to pay more to get 5GB at better speeds but then you’ll be charged a premium.

These “international data plans” are 5X as expensive as buying a prepaid eSIM data plan from a third-party provider—for example, eSIM data plans from Orange or Holafly will cost you around $2-$4/day.

So do yourself a favor and buy a European mobile data plan.

What Is An eSIM?

In short, an eSIM is an embedded/digital version of the traditional physical SIM card. So instead of installing a physical SIM card to change your mobile provider, you simply connect to a new mobile data service provider using an app.

This is great for international travel because you no longer have to hunt down a new SIM card when you change countries. You simply activate the eSIM service and you’re online in seconds.

Many new phones are dual SIM so you can still use your physical domestic SIM card while also using the eSIM so you can switch back and forth between your mobile data providers.

Some phones are also moving to eSIM only—the USA versions of the iPhone 14 and iPhone 15 (and future generations) no longer feature a SIM card slot but do support dual eSIM.

Below are some of the many benefits of using an eSIM data plan while traveling.

No Searching For SIM Cards

The biggest benefit of an eSIM is not having to track down a physical SIM card. All you have to do is install the mobile provider’s app to activate the eSIM data service. This means you can order your eSIM, and download the app before you leave. and then activate the service when you arrive at your destination.

Instant Delivery (No Shipping Fees)

Since eSIM cards are all digital you don’t have to pay shipping fees if you want to pre-purchase a European data plan before arriving in Europe.

For example, you can buy a plan from SimOptions or Holafly and they’ll email you a QR code or link to activate the service.

Dual eSIMs Allow You To Use Two Data Plans At Once

Another big benefit to using an eSIM is that you can seamlessly switch between your domestic plan (via the physical SIM) and the travel plan (via your eSIM). In fact, some phones let you have up to 5 eSIM data plans on a single phone—which is overkill for most people but it’s still an option.

Another huge benefit to having dual SIM cards is that many services will send you texts for things like two-factor identification or your bank might text you with fraud alerts and these won’t come through if you don’t have your home plan’s physical SIM card installed.

No Need to Remove Your Current SIM Card

Removing the physical SIM card is a hassle. First, you need the little tool to pop the SIM out of the phone (which is easy to lose). Then you also have to remove your phone case. You also have to keep track of your original SIM card so you don’t lose or damage it (you’ll need to reinstall it to get your service back).

Easier To Add Credit To Your Account

All eSIM data plans require you to download the service provider’s app to activate the service and most allow you to easily add credit to your account via the app.

Not all iPhones have built-in eSIM compatibility but essentially all iPhones made since 2019 should be eSIM compatible—i.e. they’re Dual SIM so they have both a physical SIM and an eSIM.

UPDATE: All iPhone 14 (and newer) sold in the UNITED STATES are eSIM-only so there isn’t a physical SIM Card slot anymore. However, all iPhones sold outside the US have dual SIM with physical SIM and eSIM.

eSIM Compatible Phones:

(The base iPhone X and anything older is not eSIM compatible)
iPhone 11, 11 Pro, and 11 Pro Max
iPhone 12, 12 Pro, 12 Pro Max, 12 Mini & iPhone SE 2020
iPhone 13, 13 Pro, 13 Mini
iPhone 14 Pro, iPhone 14 Pro Max, iPhone 14, iPhone 14 Plus, iPhone SE, etc.
iPhone 15 Pro, iPhone 15 Pro Max, iPhone 15, and iPhone 15 Plus

Again, just about every Android sold since 2020 is eSIM compatible.

Samsung Galaxy Fold & Galaxy Fold 2 / Galaxy Z Flip & Z Flip 5G
Samsung Galaxy S20, S20+, S20 Ultra / Galaxy Note 20
Samsung Galaxy S21 5G, S21+ 5G, S21 Ultra 5G
Google Pixel 3, Pixel 3XL, Pixel 4, Pixel 4XL, Pixel 4a (4G), Pixel 5 (5G), Pixel 6, Pixel 7
Huawei P40 and P40 Pro & Mate 40 Pro

How to buy a SIM card and data plan in Italy

A great thing about traveling to Europe is that the EU outlawed mobile data roaming fees so any EU data plan will work anywhere within the UE—i.e. you can buy a French eSIM and use it in Italy, Germany, Poland, etc.

That said, I recommend sticking with the major European carriers since they’ll have the most comprehensive networks and the fastest mobile data speeds.

NOTE: The UK and Switzerland aren’t in the EU so not all plans will work there (but many still do)—check each plan to see if they cover these countries.

Orange Holiday Europe eSIM 50GB: $59.90

Price: $59.90 (Check SimOptions for details)
Data: 50GB
Service Speed: 4G/LTE
Calls: Unlimited within Europe and 120 min outside of Europe.
Texts/SMS: Unlimited within Europe and 1000 outside of Europe.
Credit validity: 28 day
Data Tethering: Allowed
Usable on any device (phones, tablets, hotspots…)
This eSIM plan comes with a French phone number that can still be used anywhere in Europe
Service works everywhere in the EU

Need tons of data? Consider the newly released Orange Holiday Europe 50GB eSIM data plan which is a beefed-up version of the Orange Holiday Europe eSIM. It has 50GB of data and it’s valid for 28 days (compared to 14 days with the Orange Holiday Europe plan). This eSIM also comes with many features you don’t find with other plans—including international voice calling and texts (it gives you an actual French phone number that works anywhere in Europe).

The Orange Holiday Europe eSIM plan also allows you to use your phone as a mobile hotspot so you can put that extra data allowance to good use. Orange is also one of the largest mobile companies in Europe so you’ll always get great coverage and high data speeds.

Holafly Europe eSIM with Unlimited Data: Starting at $19.00

Holafly is a new Europe-based eSIM provider that I used in Italy—the service was great and I got very fast data speeds (read my Holafly eSIM Review to learn more). They sell both country-specific and Europe-wide data plans.

Unlike other mobile data companies, Holafly gives you unlimited data and a local phone number with 60 minutes of credit for making/receiving calls from European numbers (with a few exceptions). I also like how Holafly’s plans come in durations from 5 to 90 days—so you don’t have to over/underbuy for your particular trip.

5 Days: $19
10 Days: $34
15 Days: $47
20 Days: $54
30 Days: $64
60 Days: $84
90 Days: $99
Service Speed: 5G/4G/LTE
Call Coverage: 60 minutes of credit to make calls from all of Europe—except Iceland, Norway, United Kingdom, Switzerland, Ukraine, and Turkey. Comes with an Austrian phone number.
Texts/SMS: None
Tethering: No

Bouygues My European eSIM: $44.90

Bouygues is a major French telecommunications company and they’ve recently released their own prepaid eSIM data plan to compete with the popular Orange Holiday Europe eSIM plan. I used a prepaid Bouygues SIM card on a previous trip to Europe so I’m glad they’re finally offering an eSIM.

There’s a lot to like about the Bouygues My European eSIM plan —especially since it comes standard with 30GB of data and unlimited calls within Europe. I also like how this Bouygues eSIM plan is valid for 30 days so it’s a great option for longer trips.

Price: $44.90 (Check SimOptions for details)
Data Tethering: Allowed
Service Speed: 4G/LTE
Calls: Unlimited within Europe
Credit validity: 30 day
Phone Number: This eSIM card comes with a French phone number
Coverage : Anywhere within the European Union (except Switzerland)

Check out my Bouygues European eSIM review for more information about this plan.

Orange Holiday Europe eSIM 30GB: $49.90

Price: $49.90 (Check SimOptions for details)
Calls: Unlimited within Europe and 120 min outside of Europe.
Texts/SMS: Unlimited within Europe and 1000 outside of Europe.
Credit validity: 14 day
Data tethering allowed
This eSIM card comes with a French phone number

The Orange Holiday Europe eSIM data plan is another excellent eSIM plan because it comes with 30GB of data and many features you don’t find with other plans—including international voice calling and texts (it gives you an actual French phone number that will work anywhere in Europe). The Orange Holiday Europe eSIM plan also allows you to use your phone as a mobile hotspot.

Orange is also one of the largest mobile companies in Europe so you’ll always get great coverage and high data speeds.

The potential downside to the Orange Holiday Europe eSIM is that it’s only valid for 14 days once activated so it’s not great for longer visits (but you can always buy a second plan).

Orange Holiday Zen eSIM: $29.90

Orange Holiday Zen eSIM | Best eSIM For Visiting Europe

Price: $29.90 (Check SimOptions for details)
Data: 15GB (recently upgraded from 8GB)
Calls: Unlimited within Europe and 30 min outside of Europe.
Texts/SMS: Unlimited within Europe and 200 outside of Europe.

The Orange Holiday Zen plan is a top pick for travelers for a few different reasons.

First, Orange is one of the largest mobile networks in Europe so they have great coverage basically everywhere in Europe and you won’t have to worry about slow speeds.

Second, Orange Holiday eSIM data plan gives you unlimited calls and texts within Europe and limited (yet still ample) credit for calls/texts outside the EU. A majority of eSIM plans from other providers don’t give you any (or very limited) credit for calls or texts.

This plan comes with 15GB of mobile data which should suffice for most travelers who aren’t heavy data users.

Smart Comfort X eSIM: $17.90

Price: $17.90 (Check SimOptions for details)
Calls: None

The Smart Comfort X eSIM is a budget data-only eSIM plan option that gives you 5GB of data but no calls or texts (you can still send iMessage if you’re sending messages between iPhones and make calls/texts via WhatsApp, etc.).

Smart Comfort X eSIM is also what’s considered an “international eSIM” so it’s not backed by a specific data provider (i.e. Orange, O2, etc.). That means it will connect to a specific partner provider in each country—for example, France (Bouygues), Germany (O2), Italy (WIND), Spain (Telefonica), etc.

Because of its limited data limits, the Smart Comfort X eSIM plan is best for light data users.

Do European eSIM Plans Come With A European Phone Number?

Some European prepaid eSIM plans come with a European phone number but many prepaid eSIM plans are data only. You probably don’t need a European phone number but it can come in handy for calling restaurants, hotels, or Airbnb hosts (many use WhatsApp—which only requires a data connection).

Recommended Prepaid eSim Plans with A European Phone Number:

Bouygues My European eSIM : This eSIM plan comes with unlimited calling in Europe.
Holafly Europe eSIM : Holafly eSIM plans include 60 minutes of calling in Europe.
Orange Holiday Europe eSIM and Orange Holiday Zen eSIM : Orange comes with international and Europe calling.

Studies show that the average American uses about 5-7GB of mobile data every week but your rate will vary.

You can easily hit 15GB/week if you’re a heavy user but it’s fairly easy to keep your mobile data usage under 2-3GB/week if you stick to basic web browsing, limit your social media use, and keep app usage to a minimum (or save your heavy usage for when you’re on wifi).

Activating an eSIM is relatively simple.

UPDATE: Apple’s iOS 17.4 update (released late March 2024) now includes an automatic eSIM installation and activation feature—making setting up and managing your eSIM much easier. This is great news!

Step One: Purchase Your Data Plan

I highly recommend purchasing your eSIM before you leave because you’ll need data/wifi to complete the setup.

Step Two: Check Your Email For The QR Code

You’ll get an email from the seller as soon as you make your purchase.

This email will include a QR code that you can scan so you’ll want to be in front of your computer so you can scan the QR code from your screen.

Step Three: Install The Carrier’s eSIM App

The QR code will lead you to download the carrier’s eSIM app. Just follow the directions they send you.

IMPORTANT: Don’t fully activate your eSIM data plan until you’re in Europe. Most data plans only have a validity period of 14-30 days and that countdown begins the second you activate the service. So, for example, if you activate the service a week before your trip then you’ll have lost a full week from your service length (even if you haven’t used any data).

Step Four: Fully Activate Service Once in Europe

Finish the activation process. Your phone should automatically connect to the local data network (it might take a few minutes to get fully activated).

The beauty of eSIM plans is that they’re completely digital so you can buy them online anytime, anywhere (see all the above eSIM options).

Every European country has its own domestic mobile carriers and each is starting to offer its own prepaid eSIM data plans. However, carrier-specific eSIM mobile packages aren’t quite widespread in Europe yet so not every mobile carrier will have options—therefore, not every retailer will have them (or they’ll have a very limited selection).

Furthermore, many European carriers only offer “postpaid” eSIM plans so they’re generally not conducive to short-term visitors and tourists. That’s why I recommend buying one of the eSIM plans I mentioned earlier in this article.

What Countries in Europe Support eSIM?

While not every mobile carrier in Europe has an eSIM mobile plan, there are carriers in every European country that accept eSIM technology—therefore, your phone will automatically connect to a provider (no matter what eSIM plan you’re using).

Simply put: Your eSIM data plan will work anywhere in Europe.

Coverage Note About Switzerland (and Possibly the UK): Switzerland is an outlier because they’re not technically part of the EU so some providers don’t work there. For example, the Orange Holiday plans work in Switzerland but the Smart Comfort X plan won’t work there. There are also rumors that the UK also has (or will have soon) the same issues because of Brexit. Learn more on our Guide on How To Use Data Plans and Smartphone Phones Abroad

Here are a few more tips for getting the most out of using your high-speed eSIM mobile data plan while traveling around Europe. If you want to learn more, check out The Savvy Backpacker’s Guide to How To Use Data Plans and Smartphone Phones Abroad

You Need An Unlocked Phone

You need to make sure your phone is unlocked before you can install both a SIM card or eSIM—many American mobile carriers use software to “lock” their smartphones to their network so the phone won’t work if you install a SIM card from another company.

However, you can unlock your phone by calling your mobile carrier and asking them to unlock it because you’re going to travel abroad (you might need to visit a store to get it unlocked).

BUY A PORTABLE BATTERY CHARGER

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

Save Heavy Data Usage For When You’re On Wifi

It’s extremely easy to unknowingly burn through a lot of data—especially when you’re using data-hungry apps like Facebook, Instagram, Snapchat, and TikTok. Therefore it’s highly recommended to save your heavy data usage for when you’re connected to wifi.

USE AIRPLANE MODE AND BLOCK DATA TO SPECIFIC APPS

I’ll put my phone in Airplane Mode because that disables all data (but GPS still works in Airplane Mode). You can also go into the settings and disable data access to each individual app.

DOWNLOAD OFFLINE MAPS

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

Download WhatsApp

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

Get More Europe Travel Tips From The Savvy Backpacker

Are you heading to Europe soon? Here are some more helpful articles I’ve written to help you plan your European travels.

Backpacking Europe Packing List
Europe Packing List for Women
The Best Travel Shoes
The Best Travel Backpacks and The Best Travel Backpacks for Women
Guide To Buying SIM Cards and Mobile Data Plans in France
Guide to Buying SIM Cards and Mobile Data Plans in Germany
Guide To Buying SIM Cards and Mobile Data Plans in Italy
Guide To Buying SIM Cards and Mobile Data Plans in Spain
Recent Posts

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Holafly eSIM Review | Testing The New eSIM Data Plan from Holafly - March 3, 2024
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Thanks For Reading! — James

Questions? Learn more about our Strict Advertising Policy and How To Support Us .

Holafly eSIM Review | Testing The New eSIM Data Plan from Holafly

Testing the unlimited Holafly eSIM data plan to see how it works while traveling in Europe.

Guide To Using Smartphones, SIM Cards, and Data Plans In Europe

What you need to know about using smartphones, high-speed data plans, and SIM cards in Europe — without spending a fortune.

How To Travel With A Laptop | Tips For Keeping Your Laptop Safe

What you need to know about traveling with a laptop.

Best Prepaid eSIM For Spain | Data Plan Buyer’s Guide

A guide to finding the best prepaid eSIM data plans for visiting Spain.

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About eSIM on iPhone

Learn what an eSIM is, how to set up an eSIM on your iPhone, and how to transfer a physical SIM to an eSIM.

What is eSIM on iPhone?

An eSIM is an industry-standard digital SIM that allows you to activate a cellular plan from your carrier without having to use a physical SIM. You can install eight or more eSIMs on an iPhone and use two phone numbers at the same time.

What you need

An iPhone XS, iPhone XS Max, iPhone XR, or later
A wireless carrier or worldwide service provider that supports eSIM
Your new iPhone needs to be connected to a Wi-Fi network.*

eSIM on iPhone is not offered in China mainland. In Hong Kong and Macao, some iPhone models feature eSIM. Learn about using Dual SIM with two nano-SIM cards in China mainland, Hong Kong, and Macao . For travelers visiting China mainland who wish to use an eSIM for prepaid data plans, these are offered by many worldwide service providers .

* iPhone 14 models and later that are eSIM only can activate without a Wi-Fi network.

How to set up an eSIM on iPhone

Setting up your eSIM is usually just a matter of turning on your new iPhone and following the onscreen instructions.

You can activate your eSIM while you're setting up your iPhone if your carrier supports eSIM Carrier Activation or eSIM Quick Transfer. With eSIM Carrier Activation, your carrier assigns an eSIM to your iPhone when you purchase it. With eSIM Quick Transfer, you transfer the SIM from your previous iPhone to your new iPhone without contacting your carrier. With either method, to activate your eSIM during setup, turn on your iPhone and follow the instructions.

Some carriers support transferring a phone number from your previous iPhone to your new iPhone without needing to contact them. Make sure that you’re signed in with your Apple ID on both devices, or make sure that your previous iPhone is unlocked, nearby with Bluetooth turned on, and using iOS 16 or later.

You can also use these options later to add or transfer an eSIM. If these options aren't available, contact your carrier to activate your eSIM using a QR code or your carrier's iPhone app.

If you purchased an iPhone 14 model or later in the United States, your iPhone activates with an eSIM. To activate your eSIM using eSIM Carrier Activation, eSIM Quick Transfer, or another activation method, turn on your iPhone and follow the instructions.

Use eSIM Carrier Activation on iPhone

Some carriers and worldwide service providers can assign a new eSIM to your iPhone, making setup easy. This usually happens when you purchase from a carrier and you provide your cellular-plan details. If an eSIM was assigned to your iPhone when you bought it, turn on your iPhone and follow the instructions to activate your eSIM.

If you're switching to iPhone (from an Android phone, for example), contact your carrier to transfer your phone number to your iPhone through eSIM Carrier Activation or by scanning a QR code from your carrier.

If you contacted your carrier for an eSIM after you set up your iPhone, and they set up eSIM Carrier Activation, follow these steps:

When a notification appears that says Carrier Cellular Plan Ready to Be Installed, tap it.
In the Settings app, tap Carrier Cellular Plan Ready to Be Installed.
Tap Continue at the bottom of the screen.
Make a call on your iPhone to check its cellular connectivity. If you can't make a call, contact your carrier.
If the plan you activated replaces the plan on your physical SIM, remove your physical SIM. Then restart your iPhone.

Use eSIM Quick Transfer on iPhone

Some carriers support SIM transfers from your previous iPhone to your new iPhone without needing to contact them. You can also convert your current physical SIM card to an eSIM.

If you don't have access to your current iPhone, contact your carrier to transfer your eSIM.

While you're setting up your iPhone, if you're asked to transfer your SIM, follow the onscreen instructions to transfer your physical SIM or eSIM. If you need to transfer more than one SIM to your new iPhone, transfer your additional SIMs following the steps below.

Transfer a physical SIM or eSIM on your previous iPhone to an eSIM on your new iPhone after setup

On your new iPhone, go to Settings > Cellular > Add Cellular Plan.
Choose a cellular plan to transfer from another iPhone. If you don't see a list of numbers, tap Transfer From Another iPhone. This requires both devices to have iOS 16 or later.
Check for instructions on your previous iPhone to confirm the transfer. To confirm, tap Transfer or, if asked for a verification code, enter the code that's displayed on your new iPhone.
Wait for the cellular plan to activate on your new iPhone. Your previous SIM is deactivated when the cellular plan on your new iPhone activates.
If a banner appears on your new iPhone that says Finish Setting Up Your Carrier's Cellular Plan, tap it. You will be redirected to your carrier's webpage to transfer your eSIM. If you need help, contact your carrier.

Convert a physical SIM to an eSIM on the same iPhone

You can convert a physical SIM to an eSIM on the same iPhone, if your carrier supports it. Follow these steps:

On your iPhone, go to Settings > Cellular.
Tap Convert to eSIM. If you don't see Convert to eSIM, your carrier doesn't support this option. Contact your carrier to move your phone number from your physical SIM to an eSIM using eSIM Carrier Activation or by scanning a QR code.

Tap Convert to eSIM.
Wait for your eSIM to activate. Your previous SIM card is deactivated when the cellular plan on your iPhone activates.
Remove the physical SIM from your iPhone. Then restart your iPhone.

Use a QR code

You can use a QR code from your carrier to set up eSIM on your iPhone.

To activate your eSIM while setting up your iPhone:

When you get to the Set Up Cellular screen, tap Use QR code.
Follow the onscreen instructions.

To activate your eSIM after you set up your iPhone, contact your carrier to get a QR code. Then follow these steps:

Open the Camera app and scan your QR code. When the Cellular Plan Detected notification appears, tap it.
If you’re using an iPhone with iOS 17.4 or later and you receive a QR code from your carrier in an email, or from the carrier webpage, touch and hold the QR code, then tap Add eSIM.
Tap Add Cellular Plan.

If you’re asked to enter a confirmation code to activate your eSIM, enter the number that your carrier provided.

Other eSIM activation methods

Some carriers may send you a link instead of a QR code to download your eSIM.

On your iPhone with iOS 17.4 or later, tap the link to set up your eSIM.
When the Activate New eSIM notification appears, tap Allow.

If your carrier supports activating eSIM using an app, download your carrier’s app from the App Store and follow the instructions.

Enter the eSIM information manually if necessary

Contact your carrier to get the eSIM details you need to enter.
Go to Settings.
Tap either Cellular or Mobile Data.
Tap Enter Details Manually at the bottom of your iPhone screen.
If you can't set up an eSIM .
If necessary, erase your eSIM .
Learn how to use Dual SIM with eSIM .
Find wireless carriers and worldwide services providers that offer eSIM service .
Use eSIM while traveling abroad with your iPhone .

Start a discussion in Apple Support Communities

Stay connected, wherever you travel, at affordable rates |

Our eSIMs are trusted by over 5,000,000 people worldwide

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Popular Countries

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Netherlands

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United Kingdom

Switzerland

How Airalo Works

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Ready to try eSIMs and change the way you stay connected?

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Works in over 200 countries, with a single card & phone number. (And get your card FAST with express delivery).

Find your SIM Card number on the back of the product package or if you no longer have the product package, you can also find the SIM Card phone number from the plastic card .

Change settings

Configure Your eSIM

Add a data plan and credit for calls&sms to your travelsim esim now.

You can install the TravelSim eSIM from your My Account page after the purchase process in finished.

Choose credit for calls & texts

Unlimited USA calls voice package includes unlimited calls from USA to USA and European Union numbers. It does not include calls to voicemail and other TravelSim numbers. You can make unlimited calls from USA to following countries: USA, Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech.Rep., Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Gibraltar, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, St. Barthelemy / St. Martin Island, Sweden, United Kingdom.

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

Add the best data plan to SIM card

Choose all your destination countries, add extra number.

Your SIM card phone number starts with +372 by default. In addition to that, you can choose to purchase a UK phone number (+44) or a US phone number (+1).

If you purchase a US or UK number, it will become your primary phone number for outgoing calls. Your default +372 number will still work for incoming calls. Data usage is not affected by phone numbers. Please note that UK numbers can receive calls and SMS. Incoming call 0.20$ or 0.15€/min. Incoming SMS is free. US numbers can only receive calls, no SMS service available for US numbers. Incoming call 0.20$ or 0.15€/min

Here are all the countries you can travel to when you select this data plan:

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Europe & UK eSIM (50 Countries)

Up to 30GB Data
eSIM - Instant Delivery
Aland Islands
Balearic Islands
Canary Islands
Czech Republic
Faroe Islands
Isle of Man
Isle of Wight
Liechtenstein
Netherlands
Northern Ireland
Rhodes Island
Vatican City

South East Asia eSIM (12 Countries)

Up to 10GB Data
Up to 30 Days
Indonesia (Bali)
Philippines
South Korea

Indonesia eSIM

Thailand eSIM

Europe & UK eSIM (35 Countries)

Up to 20GB Data
Switzerland
United Kingdom

United States of America

Africa eSIM

Up to 5GB Data
Democratic Republic of the Congo
South Africa

Australia eSIM

South America eSIM

14 Countries
El Salvador

USA, Canada & Mexico eSIM

Middle East eSIM

Dubai (UAE)
Saudi Arabia
United Arab Emirates

New Zealand eSIM

New Zealand

South Korea eSIM

China, Hong Kong & Macau eSIM

South East Asia eSIM (6 Countries)

Turkey eSIM

Morocco eSIM

Unlimited Japan eSIM

Unlimited data
Up to 90 Days

Unlimited Europe & UK eSIM (33 Countries)

Up to 90 days

Unlimited South East Asia eSIM (8 Countries)

Cambodia (Smart)
Hong Kong(SmarTone)
Indonesia & Bali (XL)
Macau (CTM)
Malaysia (DiGi)
Singapore (StarHub)
Thailand (Dtac)
Vietnam (Vinaphone)

Unlimited USA & Canada eSIM

Unlimited South Korea eSIM

Unlimited China eSIM

Taiwan eSIM

International travel esim for tourists.

We have a collection of reliable travel eSIMs you can use for your trip here at SimsDirect! An eSIM is an integrated SIM chip added to your mobile device that allows you to use different SIMs without needing to replace a physical SIM card! Check out if your phone is compatible with our eSIMs here .

Stay connected on-the-go with any of our travel eSIMs!

Planning a trip overseas?

How exciting!

The world is your oyster right now and we know this trip will be one to remember. Maybe you’re planning a European summer getaway with a stop in Singapore, a dream holiday across Australia and New Zealand, or a rendezvous in South America and South East Asia. Either way, you’ll want to travel with peace of mind knowing you’re connected no matter where your plans take you.

We all rely on our phones so much these days and even more so when travelling in another country. Whether you’re checking tomorrow’s surf conditions in Bali, navigating your way to your private villa in Greece, or transferring money out of your savings when you overspend on pasta in Italy, we’ve got you covered with our Travel eSIM - a global eSIM that works in a whopping 120 countries across Europe, Asia, Africa, the Middle East, South America, Australia, and plenty more.

Our Prepaid Travel eSIMs

Introducing our brand-new prepaid travel eSIMs which will keep you connected throughout your world adventures, without the need to swap out your physical SIM card. Not only that, but you’ll also save time and money by only needing one SIM to keep you connected wherever your plans take you.

eSIM, short for embedded SIM, is a small programmable chip located inside the latest smartphones. Devices launched post-2017 typically include an eSIM but if you want to make sure your phone is compatible, check out this list of eSIM enabled devices {links to eSIM compatible devices page}.

Whether you’re booking those last minute flights, scoping out some Insta-worthy photo spots or posting pictures online to make your friends and family jealous, staying connected is a breeze with our affordable, high-speed prepaid travel eSIMs.

Our eSIMs come with a 100% money-back guarantee and include hassle-free activation, so you’ll be connected as soon as you land. No more waiting in painfully long airport lines or fiddling with SIM card trays!

Travel with peace of mind knowing you’ll have an Aussie support team at your disposal, and you won’t be hit with an extortionate phone bill next month from those pesky roaming charges.

Order your prepaid travel eSIM today and enjoy peace of mind knowing you can dive straight into your adventures!

Where It Works

The best sim card for nz.

You have booked your trip to NZ and now you're thinking... What's the best NZ SIM card for my trip?

Well you're in the right place 👍

Here, you can find the best value NZ SIM cards that are super easy to use so when you land you will connect instantly and avoid the chaos of buying a SIM at the airport.

Keep reading or watch our video with all the available options so you can make the right choice.

All your options, compared.

Best bang for your buck: The 10GB New Zealand SIM

Other Aussie travellers like you rated the 10GB option the best with over 800+ 5 star Reviews.

Below are our options compared with Vodafone and Spark mobile, the major providers in New Zealand.

Small Plans

For the budget traveller looking to save money.

Best suited for minimal data users
Research restaurants, places and sites on the go
Use google maps for your travels

200 mins & texts in NZ
100 mins & texts to Aus
30 day validity

300 mins to NZ & Aus
Unlimited texts to NZ & Aus

For the full guide on how to use this SIM, view our SIM guide here.

Medium Plans

The 'all rounder'. There's a reason that Aussie travellers love this one.

Get this one if you:

Want best bang for your buck
Need access to a lot of apps including maps, social media etc.
Unlimited mins & texts in NZ
200 mins & texts to Aus
60 day validity
Unlimited calls to NZ & Aus
300 mins & texts to Aus

For the full guide on how to use this SIM, view our SIM guide here .

Large Plans

For the traveller who needs heavy internet usage on the go for 1 or multiple devices.

Don't worry about running out of data
Can hotspot to multiple devices
Great for videos, maps, social media and big downloads
Unlimited calls & texts in NZ

Bottom Line

You are looking for the right SIM for your needs and want to make the right choice so you can travel around New Zealand easily.

By choosing one of the SIM cards through SimsDirect you are avoiding the hassle when you land and getting the best value SIM cards for Aussie travellers.

Plus you get free delivery and 100% money back guarantee with every purchase.

You can't go wrong with the SimsDirect 10GB SIM that comes with unlimited calls & texts to NZ and Australian numbers.

Shipping and Delivery

Frequently asked questions.

Delivery times vary depending on your location, please use the table below for estimated delivery times.

Shipping Method:

Standard - Free Express - $7.99

All orders are shipped from our Sydney office using the Australia Post Domestic Letter Service.

Same-day dispatch is available on orders placed before 3pm AEST/AEDT Monday - Friday. Any orders placed after 3 pm will be dispatched the next day.

Once we've shipped your order, you will receive a tracking number via email. Click the View Order button in the email to monitor the status of your delivery with Australia Post.

If you're leaving soon and your order hasn't arrived, please contact us so we can arrange to have it delivered to you with free express shipping. It is important to us that we ensure your SIM card(s) arrive well before you take off.

Product Information

Yes! We offer 3 different sizes for each SIM card - Standard, Micro, and Nano. All you need to do is make sure that you pop out the correct size that is compatible with your device.

The SIM will only activate once you have inserted it into your device, which, in most cases, is when you have arrived at your destination.

You can find more specific activation steps here .

Zero. We're here to help you save money whilst abroad. With our SIM cards, you'll get all the data and outgoing calls that you pay for without any added surcharges or hidden costs. For as little as $2 a day, we offer the cheapest way of staying online while you're travelling.

If you purchased your device outright then it is most likely unlocked. Devices purchased alongside a contract are usually locked. If you are unsure, contact your service provider, they may even be able to unlock it for you (usually incurring a fee).

You’ll be able to track your data usage directly from your device, please click here for an in-depth guide on how to do so.

Travel easily & safely!

Travel tips for 2023, traveling the globe, check out the explorer collection.

Explorer Travel SIM Card

71 Countries
The Czech Republic
French Guiana
French West Indies
Puerto Rico
Saint Barthelemy
Saint Martin
United States
US Virgin Islands

Tourist Travel SIM Card

120 Countries
China (including Tibet)
Congo (Democratic Republic of)
Congo Republic
Madagascar Republic
North Ireland
Northern Cyprus
Papua New Guinea
Slovak Republic
Svalbard and Jan Mayen

Why is the activation date important?

We need these dates to activate your SIM card so you can use it when the SIM is inserted into your device.
For a seamless experience, make sure the date you insert at checkout is the exact date you want to start using the SIM, not earlier or later.
Activation can take anywhere from a few minutes to a couple of hours.

Not sure on your dates yet?

You can add in an estimated date for your SIM. Your SIM’s data & validity won’t start until you plug it into your device.
Once you know your exact dates, please let us know via our live chat or at [email protected] so we can activate it for you at the right time.

What if you need to change the dates?

You can reach out to us via our live chat or at [email protected] with your order number so we can change it for you.

IMAGES

eSIM vs SIM: What's the best option for travel?
How to use an International eSIM for Travel
What Is An ESIM And How Do I Use It?
eSIM vs Physical SIM Cards: What you need to know
SIM Card Vs eSIM: Which Factors Set These Two Apart?
What Are Esims And How Do They Work

VIDEO

Stay Connected in Paris: SIMs, eSIMs and Portable Hotspots Unveiled
Travel the world with an eSIM
Monogoto & Mosolabs
What is the best SIM card to buy?
Travel Smart with iRoamly: Affordable Global Data eSIMs
How to Set Up e-SIM in Thailand for Travel 2024 (Tutorial)

COMMENTS

Best eSIMs for travel of 2024
With Nomad, you can purchase one GB of data for as low as $1.30 (in Asia and the Americas). It has an incredible value proposition in North America, Asia, and Europe. However, when it comes to ...
Buy International eSIM Online
eSIM is easy to set up and use. View detailed instructions. 1 Check to make sure your device is eSIM compatible. 2 Choose your destinations, data and credit. 3 Install your eSIM via the QR code. 4 Top-up your eSIM whilst traveling. View Full List.
How to Set Up and Use an eSIM for International Travel
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 ...
The 7 Best eSIMs For International Travel (2024 Review)
6. BNESIM. Another eSIM company that makes our list is BNESIM, an eSIM provider that offers plans in over 170 countries. With international phone numbers, unlimited data packages, and monthly subscriptions, BNESIM provides a comprehensive solution for your international travel abroad.
13 Best International (E)-Sim Cards for Traveling in 2024
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. ... 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 ...
Complete Guide: Best eSIM For International Travel
Here are the three top eSIM providers for international travel. Airalo: Perfect for travelers looking for short-term and long-term options worldwide. (My pick) Holafly: Great options with several unlimited plans, especially in the United States.
Beginner's guide to travel eSIMs
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 ...
eSIM: What it is and how to use it for international travel
Using an eSIM for international travel is easy and it takes just three steps to set one up. 1. Purchase an eSIM data plan. To buy an eSIM online, visit the provider's website, choose your plan, and make the payment. All the above-mentioned eSIMs are available for online purchase. Expert tip: Buy your eSIM for international travel before ...
Use eSIM while traveling internationally with your iPhone
If your iPhone has a SIM tray, you can use both a physical SIM and an eSIM while traveling internationally. eSIM on iPhone isn't offered in China mainland. In Hong Kong and Macao, some iPhone models feature eSIM. Learn about using Dual SIM with two nano-SIM cards in China mainland, Hong Kong, and Macao. For travelers visiting China mainland ...
The BEST eSim For Travel and Backpacking in 2024
For example, a 30-day U.S eSim with 10GB of data will set you back $26 USD. Alternatively, for those needing less data, a 3GB eSim with the same validation period will cost a reasonable $11 USD. Airalo eSim plans range from 7-30 days for most local eSims, while regional packages are available up to 180 days.
What is an eSIM? A Complete Guide to eSIMs
An eSIM, also known as an embedded SIM or electronic SIM, is a component that can likely already be found in your smartphone or tablet. It's an integrated component that functions in the same way as a physical SIM card, but without the hassle of needing to manually swap it out and replace it whenever you need to connect to a new carrier.
What's the Best Travel eSIM in 2024? I Found Out!
Where Nomad stands out, and the main reason I included it in this article, is its range of options for heavier data users and longer-term travel. With other companies, most eSIM plans top out at 5 or 10GB for a month. In many countries, however, Nomad offers packages of up to 100GB for 60 days.
International SIM Cards
Savvy Travellers Choose Travelsim for Peace of Mind, 4G Speed, and to. Save up to. 85%. on International Roaming Charges. Limited Time Offer- 20% OFF. Use discount code "20" during the checkout process. Get your SIM Card Get your eSIM. Works in over 135+ countries, with a single card & phone number. (And get your card FAST with express delivery).
Travelling with eSIM: Everything you need to know
Yes, you can travel with eSIM. If you have an Australian eSIM, your plan will work overseas exactly the same way a traditional SIM card would. This means you'll pay the standard roaming rates associated with your plan. The same applies if you plan to use a 4G-enabled eSIM smartwatch overseas.
What Is The Best eSim To Use For Travel and ...
Keep Your Native Number. Because there is no physical sim slot, eSim allows you to run multiple different sims simultaneously(ish). Basically, you can use the eSim package for your travel destination for data and local calls, whilst also keeping your native phone number in for receiving calls from back home (although note that the eye watering overseas call charges may apply).
Best eSIM For Europe Travel
Holafly Europe eSIM with Unlimited Data: Starting at $19.00. Holafly is a new Europe-based eSIM provider that I used in Italy—the service was great and I got very fast data speeds (read my Holafly eSIM Review to learn more). They sell both country-specific and Europe-wide data plans.
Travel like a Local
Enjoy 15% off 10GB and above Nomad eSIM plans in 170 countries. Stay connected, share the fun, and make epic memories! Use code " SPRINGXNOMAD24 ". Valid until 3/31/24 23:59 PST. Shop Now.
eSIMDB: Find and compare best prepaid eSIM for travelers
The world's largest collection of travel eSIM & prepaid data plans for tourists. Filter by country or region, find customer reviews & promo codes, and more! Write a review. Find the best prepaid eSIM plans for your travel destination. Search and compare 25,000+ data plans from 50+ eSIM providers. Popular Destinations.
Ultimate Guide to eSIM Compatible Devices (Updated for 2023)
The benefits of using an eSIM compatible device. eSIMs make it easier to manage multiple profiles and numbers through one phone, meaning there's no need to carry a second phone for business/personal use. They take up less space inside a device, allowing for better design decisions - such as bigger batteries, for longer battery life.
About eSIM on iPhone
On your iPhone with iOS 17.4 or later, tap the link to set up your eSIM. When the Activate New eSIM notification appears, tap Allow. Tap Continue at the bottom of the screen. If your carrier supports activating eSIM using an app, download your carrier's app from the App Store and follow the instructions.
Local and regional eSIMs for travellers
Extremely useful app for travelers! This app is incredibly useful for when you are going to travel. They have eSIM cards for seemingly every country on earth and offer a lot of flexibility regarding pricing and duration. I have used it a few times now and am very satisfied. I have even used it a few times at the end of the month, where I used ...
Configure Your eSIM
Your SIM card phone number starts with +372 by default. In addition to that, you can choose to purchase a UK phone number (+44) or a US phone number (+1). UK standard number. +44 XXXX XXXXXX. US standard number. +1 (XXX) XXX-XXXX. If you purchase a US or UK number, it will become your primary phone number for outgoing calls.
Best International Travel eSIM For Tourists
International Travel eSIM For Tourists. We have a collection of reliable travel eSIMs you can use for your trip here at SimsDirect! An eSIM is an integrated SIM chip added to your mobile device that allows you to use different SIMs without needing to replace a physical SIM card!

Best eSIMs for travel of 2024

Best eSIM overall

What is an eSIM?

Why should I get an eSIM for international travel?

Is my phone compatible with eSIM?

Top 10 eSIM providers for international travel

Specifications

Best eSIM for customizable plans

Best eSIM for easy installation

Best eSIM for value for money

Best eSIM for security

5. Instabridge

Best eSIM for network coverage

Best eSIM for unlimited data

Best eSIM for global plans

8. GlobaleSIM

Best eSIM for Europe

9. Holiday eSIM

Best eSIM for data-only plans

10. Flexiroam

Best eSIMs for international travel FAQs

How do eSIM work?

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

How to set up and activate an eSIM on iOS

Are eSIM better than physical SIM cards?

Final verdict

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Most Popular

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

Step 1: Pick an eSIM

Step 2: Activate the eSIM Service

Optional (but Important) Step: Protect Your Privacy

Bottom Line

How to Make Your Smartphone Better

The Best eSIMs for International Travel

What is an eSIM?

Why Use an eSIM as an International Traveler?

Advantages of Using an eSim

Disadvantages of Using an eSim

Are All Devices Compatible With eSIMs?

iOS devices

Android devices

Other brands:

Best eSIMs for International Travel: Our Top Picks

Key Information

How To Install Airalo eSim

How to Install Holafly eSIM

How To Install Nomad eSIM

How to Install aloSIM eSIM

How to Install GigSky eSIM

How to Install BNESIM eSIM on Android

How to Install BNESIM eSIM on iPhone

7. SimOptions

How to Install SimOptions eSIM

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

So, What's the Best eSim Provider Then?

Frequently Asked Questions About eSims

What is an eSIM profile?

How many profiles can I have on an eSIM?

How do I activate my eSIM?

Is the activation immediate?

When will I receive my eSIM?

Where can I find my eSIM activation code?

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

Is my device compatible with an eSIM?

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

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

Are eSIMs more sustainable?

Can my prepaid eSIM incur additional charges?

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