virtual sim card travel

Best eSIM for international travel of 2024

eSIMs that are easy to install and provide excellent network coverage

Best eSIM overall

• Best for customizable plans
• Best for easy installation
• Best value for money
• Best for security
• Best for beginners
• Best for frequent travellers
• 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

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

1. Best overall 2. Best for customizable plans 3. Best for easy installation 4. Best for value for money 5. Best for security   6. Best for beginners 7. Best for frequent travellers

8. Best for network coverage 

9. Best for unlimited data 10. Best for global plans 11. Best for Europe   12. Best for data-only plans 13. FAQs

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

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

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The best eSIM for international travel of 2024 in full:

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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 deals that it does. 

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

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

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

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

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

Read our full Airhub review.

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Best eSIM for customizable plans

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Read our full Airalo review.

Best eSIM for easy installation

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Read our full AloSIM review.

Best eSIM for value for money

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Read our full Nomad review.

Best eSIM for security

5. Instabridge

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Read our full Instabridge review.

Best eSIM for beginners

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

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

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

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

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

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

Read our full Saily review.

Best eSIM for frequent travellers

Jetpac is a Singapore-based eSIM provider founded in 2022. With its expansive coverage spanning over 100 countries, Jetpac offers reliable internet access through both regional and global plans, catering to a variety of travel needs. Whether you're on a short 4-day trip or an extended 30-day journey, Jetpac ensures you're always connected. Their flexible data plans range from 1GB to 40GB or more, ensuring you have the data you need for every situation. 

Jetpac has partnered with local networks around the world to guarantee high-speed internet, with most connections offering 4G/LTE and even 5G speeds where available. This means you can enjoy smooth browsing, streaming, and communication no matter where you are. 

One of Jetpac’s standout features is its SmartDelay service. By registering your flight with Jetpac, you can gain complimentary access to airport lounges if your flight is delayed or canceled. This service can accommodate up to five travelers, making it a valuable perk for families or groups. Imagine the convenience of relaxing in a comfortable lounge, complete with refreshments and Wi-Fi, rather than waiting at the gate during unexpected delays.

Another notable feature is the ability to share your hotspot and connect with your laptop, tablet, or other devices to your Jetpac eSIM, ensuring that all your gadgets stay online wherever you go. This feature is particularly beneficial for business travelers who need to stay productive or for families wanting to keep everyone connected on a single plan.

Setting up Jetpac’s eSIM is straightforward and user-friendly. By downloading the Jetpac app, you are guided through the simple installation process. Additionally, Jetpac’s website offers detailed resources and guides to assist with any questions you might have. The company’s dedication to customer support is evident, with a team available around the clock to assist via email or live chat.

However, it's important to note that your device must be eSIM compatible to use Jetpac’s services. While the eSIM can be downloaded and installed before you depart, the data plan will only activate once you arrive in a supported country. 

Read our full Jetpac review.

Best eSIM for network coverage

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

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

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

1. BNESIM Infinity Europe

2. BNESIM Infinity Asia

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

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

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

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

Best eSIM for unlimited data

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Read our full Holafly review.

Best eSIM for global plans

10. GlobaleSIM

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

There are four broad plans that GlobaleSIM offers:

1. Most Popular Plan - available in 63 countries

2. Most Popular+ Plan - available in 93 countries

3. Special Plan - available in 115 countries

4. Special + Plan - available in 143 countries

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

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

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

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

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

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

Best eSIM for Europe

11. 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

12. Flexiroam

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Read our full Flexiroam review.

Best eSIMs for international travel FAQs

What is an esim  .

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

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

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

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

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

Why should I get an eSIM for international travel?  

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

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

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

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

Is my phone compatible with eSIM?  

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

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

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

The following are the latest models that support eSIM: 

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

You can also use eSIMs on the following iPads: 

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

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

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

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

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

Some popular Android phones that support eSIMs include: 

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

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

How to choose the best eSIM for international travel 

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

1. Which place are you traveling to?

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

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

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

How much data will you need?

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

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

3. How long will you be abroad?

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

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

How does an eSIM work?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

How to set up and activate an eSIM on iOS

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

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

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

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

QR code support:

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

How to set up and activate an eSIM on Android?

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

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

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

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

Are eSIM better than physical SIM cards?  

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

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

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

Seamless Activation

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

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

Increased Security

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

Designs Options

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

Multiple Profiles

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

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

Reliable Connectivity

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

Environmental Sustainability

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

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

Are there any risks to using eSIMs? 

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

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

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

Final verdict 

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

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

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

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

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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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Switching From iPhone to Android: Even if you manage to ditch your iPhone, Apple’s hooks are still there .

Trying Meta’s Smart Glasses: What happens when a columnist and a reporter use A.I. Ray-Bans to scan groceries, monuments and zoo animals? Hilarity, wonder and lots of mistakes ensued .

Ditch Your Wallet: Using your phone as a digital wallet is attainable , but it requires preparation and some compromise.

9 Best eSIMs for International Travel To Stay Connected Abroad

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The best eSIMs are easy to install, affordable , and let you skip that long line you used to do at the airport to buy a physical SIM . They can get you connected in no time because, let's be honest, who would want to waste time when arriving at the destination after an international flight?

But since this technology has been disrupting the connectivity game, new eSIM providers have started popping up all over the world , leaving us confused about which one to choose while we were still trying to figure out how to install them!

Don't worry, I've tried and tested a ton of eSIM during my travels, so I'm here to help you figure out the best one for your travel needs. In this guide, you'll find the most reliable and cost-effective eSIM options to keep you connected. And, for each of them, I'll also explain what each eSIM offers, how they work and even how to install them . Make sure to stick to the end of the guide, as there are plenty of juicy helpful tips to share with you.

The Best eSIM for International Travel

Best esim overall.

Airalo steps up as one of the most well-know eSIM providers for international travel, offering a range of flexible and affordable eSIM plans that cater to both short trips and extended travel .

It offers affordable data plans in over 200 countries , making it a versatile choice for nearly any destination you can possibly think of. You can easily purchase an eSIM through the app or their website and they are super easy to install both on iOS and Android.

One great perk of Airalo is its loyalty feature. Every time you purchase an eSIM, you accumulate 5% of the total purchase in Airmoney , which is essentially Airalo's credit that will be discounted from future purchases. And those loyalty points quickly add up , trust me!

In general, the whole experience is super user-friendly and their app makes purchasing, monitoring and topping up your eSIM a piece of cake. Only downside? They offer only data plans which is not a big deal nowadays since you can call using VoIP services like WhatsApp. But if you are looking for calls and texts, you'll need to look somewhere else.

Specifications

• Coverage: 200+ countries, 7 regions, 1 global plan
• Price: Starting from $4.50
• Devices supported : iOS, Android
• Local phone number for calls and texts: No, only data plans
• Hotspot and tethering: Yes, but you may need to set up the APN settings for your eSIM to enable this feature.

How To Install Airalo eSim

Want to learn more about Airalo eSIM? Read our full Airalo review :

Best for Heavy-Data Users

Another popular name in the eSIM space is Holafly . This eSIM provider makes a great case for international travelers venturing into the US and Europe, offering not just connectivity but the freedom of unlimited data . Don't you worry, though – they also have plans with reliable internet connection for Asia, Africa and even global plans .

Holafly really stands out for those of us who can’t get enough of streaming, sharing, and endlessly browsing without worrying about hitting a dreaded data limit. It's also great for digital nomads and remote workers who need substantial data to roam from around the world.

Although their plans are slightly more expensive (which is often justified from the fact they offer unlimited data), their 24/7 customer service and the fact that their connection is reliable mostly everywhere, Holafly is definitely a top choice for international travelers and remote workers alike .

• Coverage: 197+ countries, 6 regions, including unlimited data plans in some countries, and 1 global plan
• Price: Starting from $6
• Local phone number for calls and texts: They used to for Europe, but not anymore
• Hotspot and tethering: Some of their eSIM plans (e.g. Europe plans), but not all of them.

How to Install Holafly eSIM

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

Want to learn more about Holafly? Read our full Holafly review below:

Best for Short International Trips

Owned by NTT Docomo (one of the largest telcos in Japan and the world) , Ubigi is a top choice for frequent travelers who are always on the move. With 200+ destinations and data packages starting as small as 500MB , but also offering larger data packages like  10GB and even unlimited plans  in some destinations, it's the perfect option for easy, one-off data plans that aren't going to break the bank.

You can access everything you need to get online straight from your phone and with the simplified eSIM process , you can go from downloading the Ubigi app to an activated eSIM in literally under 5 minutes. The cool thing? Once you install the eSIM, you can use it across multiple destinations – no need to scan a new QR code for each country! You don't even need WiFi or remaining data to be able to top up your data plan either, saving you from getting stranded abroad.

Ubigi lets you choose from single-country, grouped countries, and worldwide plans and also has monthly and annual contract options (something most providers don't offer). On top of that, Ubigi allows travelers to tether and create hubspots without restrictions , which is not something to get for granted when it comes to eSIMs.

• Coverage: 200+ countries, 40+ destinations with 5G
• Price: Starting from $2.50
• Devices Supported: iOS, Android, Connected Cars
• Hotspot and tethering: Yes

How to Install Ubigi eSIM on iPhone

How to Install Ubigi eSIM on Android

Best for the Well-Connected Traveler

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

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

• Coverage: 100+ countries
• Price: Starting from $1
• Additional Perks: Free lounge access (when your flight is delayed 2+ hours), emergency hotlines

How to Install Jetpac eSIM

Want to learn more about Jetpac? Read our full Jetpac review below:

Best for Wide Variety of Plans

Nomad  shines for those international travelers who crave the freedom to choose exactly what they need when they need it. They've got a coverage that's hard to beat: more than 175 country-specific plans for those deep dives into one place, global plans for the border-crossers among us, and even unlimited data options for the truly insatiable data guzzlers.

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

Their adaptability really sweetens the deal: you'll be able to pause your plan when you are back home dreaming up the next escape and then reactivate it the moment your feet hit new ground . Plus, their super UX-friendly app and sleek website make the whole process—from activation to daily management—incredibly easy.

• Coverage: 175+ countries, 12 regions
• Price: Starting from $4
• Hotspot and tethering: Some of their eSIM plans, but not all of them.

How To Install Nomad eSIM

Want to learn more about Nomad? Read our full Nomad review below:

Best Pay-As-You-Go Global Plans

Yesim has got your back if you are an international traveler who prefer spontaneity over rigid planning. With coverage in over 140 countries , their versatile plans offer flexible data options , including unlimited packages for heavy users. Their offering goes beyond just data, giving you the option to buy virtual phone numbers that can come in handy if you need to make a restaurant reservation while you're traveling abroad.

And for those who enjoy sharing their travel experiences and discoveries, Yesim offers an attractive referral program . By spreading the word about their service, you can earn "Ycoins" to use towards future data needs, adding extra value to your travels.

Their pay-as-you-go approach is gold for those "let's see where we end up" days, removing the pressure of guessing how much data you'll really use. Although the country and regional options are limited compared to other top eSIMs in this list, it's a solid choice if you are visiting all the major travel destinations .

• Coverage: 140+ countries, 10 regions, 1 global plan
• Price: Starting from $9.90
• Local phone number for calls and texts: Option to buy a virtual phone number

How to Install Yesim eSIM

Want to learn more about Yesim? Read our full Yesim review below:

Best for Budget-Conscious Travelers

aloSIM steps into the ring as the go-to for budget-savvy travelers who don’t want to compromise on staying connected, no matter where they are in the world. With a footprint in over 175 countries , aloSIM makes sure you are just a tap away from the internet. It was a trusted companion when we tested it, soaking in the sun on a remote beach in Mexico.

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

• Coverage: 175 countries, 11 regions
• Hotspot and tethering: Yes, free international HUSHED phone number

How to Install aloSIM eSIM

Best for Flexibility

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

What makes them stand out is they keep you connected not just on land but also when you're flying or sailing . When testing their eSIM in the Caribbean islands (notoriously tough to get a good connection), their connectivity in that area of the globe was just impeccable. We thought that in places like the Dominican Republic where power cuts are not that rare, any eSIM would have struggled with the signal. But I was clearly wrong! Plus, they are a full-on MVNO (mobile virtual network operator) which means they’ve got a bit more control over others to keep your connection smooth, rerouting as needed—a nice backup to have.

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

How to Install GigSky eSIM

Want to learn more about Gigsky? Read our full GigSky review below:

Best for International Numbers

BNESIM is another reliable eSIM provider that offers plans in over 200 countries around the globe. But here’s where BNESIM really stands out: aside from just data, they offer the chance to get local numbers in the places you visit. It’s really something, letting you sidestep those hefty roaming charges while making it easy peasy to book local experiences without juggling multiple SIM cards. Using their app is as straightforward as it gets, streamlining everything from purchasing to managing your plans.

If there are any cons to point out about this eSIM provider though it would be that the setup process is not as straightforward as other providers, and they offer limited plan options when it comes to duration, so be aware of these limitations.

• Coverage: 200 countries, 9 regions, 1 global plan
• Price: Starting from $0.98
• Local phone number for calls and texts: Yes, they offer also international numbers
• Hotspot and tethering: No

How to Install BNESIM eSIM on Android

How to Install BNESIM eSIM on iPhone

Best eSIMs for International Travel: Our Buying Guide

To put this into perspective, diving into the world of eSIMs feels a lot like trying to choose the right travel buddy: it's crucial, a bit daunting, but definitely exciting.

After hopping from one country to another, we've gathered some real-talk advice to help you navigate this choice without the fluff.

What is an eSIM?

If you are still unsure what an eSIM is and what some clarity, let's break it down for you.

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

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

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

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

Are eSIMs Worth It for International Travel?

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

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

Disadvantages

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

How Should I Choose the Best eSIM for My Travels?

Picking the right eSIM, it's actually easier than you think. Let's go through how to keep it straightforward and the top things to keep in mind .

Where am I headed?

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

How long is my trip going to be?

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

How much data will I need?

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

Are All Devices Compatible With eSIMs?

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

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

eSIM Compatible iOS Devices

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

Below are the latest Apple models that support eSIM:

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

eSIM Compatible Android Devices

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

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

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

How to Check if My iOS Device Supports eSIMs

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

How to Check if My Android Device Supports eSIMs

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

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

Are eSIMs actually better than physical SIMs?

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

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

Ready to Buy Your Favorite eSIM and Stay Always Connected While Traveling?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The Broke Backpacker is supported by you . Clicking through our links may earn us a small affiliate commission, and that's what allows us to keep producing free content 🙂 Learn more .

Compare The Best International SIM Cards

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

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

• > e-Sim and Traditional Sims available
• > Wide and reliable coverage
• > Low SIM-purchasing fees
• > $9.95 – $39.95

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

• > Excellent value – starts at $1
• > Range of packages available
• > Great coverage
• > $1 – $80

KeepGo Lifetime World SIM Card

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

• > Simple rates – no bundle packs
• > Huge coverage
• > eSim only…
• > $10 – $100

Orange Holiday Europe Prepaid SIM Card

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

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

Why did you put ‘anywhere’ in quotes?

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

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

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So, how does an international SIM card work?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Want to save money on accommodation?

We got you. For reals.

Who benefits from buying an international SIM card?

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

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

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

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

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

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

#1 The Best International Physical SIM Card – OneSim

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

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

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

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

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

How OneSim Works

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

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

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

So, is it worth it?

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

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

#2 Best Global eSim Provider – GigSky

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

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

How GigSky Works

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

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

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

So, Is It Worth It?

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

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

#3 Great Global eSim Package – Saily

Saily is the eSim app from the people at NordVPN and is well on its way to being recognized as a global leader in the travel eSIM retail market. The company specializes in serving global travellers, enabling them to stay connected while avoiding expensive roaming charges. During my Saily I was well impressed to see they provide country, region and global eSim data packages speedily and easily through their app.

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

How Saily Works

First up, note that Sim Local are an eSim-only provider so if you’re phone is not eSim ready…go elsewhere. Providing it is, you simply hop over to their site or get the app and check out their global packages. At the time of writing their global eSim starts at $8.99 for 1GB over 7 days.

I’ll be frank, eSims are still often more expensive than buying physical sims but they are a lot easier to install and to operate and best of all, you can install them before you even leave home. In my view, $28.00 for $8.99 for 1GB over 7 days is a pretty good price for an international sim.

#4 A Worldwide SIM Card – WorldSIM

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

How WorldSim Works

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

How it Works

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

How do I activate my international SIM card?

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

What does international SIM mean?

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

What is the best SIM card for international travel?

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

Do international SIM cards expire?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Travel Europe on a Budget

The Savvy Backpacker

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

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

phones and technology

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

What You’ll See In This eSIM Guide

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

The Benefits of eSIM Mobile Data Plans

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

What Is An eSIM?

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

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

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

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

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

No Searching For SIM Cards

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

Instant Delivery (No Shipping Fees)

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

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

Dual eSIMs Allow You To Use Two Data Plans At Once

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

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

No Need to Remove Your Current SIM Card

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

Easier To Add Credit To Your Account

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

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

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

eSIM Compatible Phones:

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

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

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

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

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

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

Orange Holiday Europe eSIM 50GB: $59.90

UPDATE (June 2024): Orange has automatically upgraded this 50GB eSIM plan to 100GB of data for all activations between June 6th and October 9th 2024.

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

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

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

Holafly Europe eSIM with Unlimited Data: Starting at $19.00

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

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

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

Bouygues My European eSIM: $44.90

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

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

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

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

Orange Holiday Europe eSIM 30GB: $49.90

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

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

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

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

Orange Holiday Zen eSIM: $29.90

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

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

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

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

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

Smart Comfort X eSIM: $17.90

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

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

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

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

Do European eSIM Plans Come With A European Phone Number?

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

Recommended Prepaid eSim Plans with A European Phone Number:

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

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

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

Activating an eSIM is relatively simple.

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

Step One: Purchase Your Data Plan

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

Step Two: Check Your Email For The QR Code

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

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

Step Three: Install The Carrier’s eSIM App

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

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

Step Four: Fully Activate Service Once in Europe

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

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

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

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

What Countries in Europe Support eSIM?

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

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

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

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

You Need An Unlocked Phone

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

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

BUY A PORTABLE BATTERY CHARGER

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

Save Heavy Data Usage For When You’re On Wifi

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

USE AIRPLANE MODE AND BLOCK DATA TO SPECIFIC APPS

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

DOWNLOAD OFFLINE MAPS

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

Download WhatsApp

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

Get More Europe Travel Tips From The Savvy Backpacker

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

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

• How To Buy Train Tickets in France | Guide To Buying French Train Tickets - July 26, 2024
• France Train Guide — How To Travel France By Train - July 25, 2024
• Best Prepaid USA eSIM Data Plans For Travelers | eSIM Buyer’s Guide - July 3, 2024

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Thanks For Reading! — James

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

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The Best eSIM for Traveling Europe

If I had to confine my travels to one region of the world for the rest of my life, it would probably be Europe . From the iconic views of Paris to the amazing cuisine of Italy to the lively nightlife of places like Barcelona and Budapest, Europe has it all. It’s a region you can explore on a budget or a place to splash out on luxury hotels and charming river cruises. It’s perfect for weekend getaways or month-long adventures.

I’ve been visiting Europe for over 15 years. And while each trip is different, there’s one thing I always do when I go: I buy an eSIM.

SIM cards are what allow you to make calls and access mobile data from your smartphone. In the past, this meant buying and installing physical SIM cards and swapping them in and out from country to country. While this was cheaper than paying roaming charges from my provider back home, it was a hassle.

Fortunately, there is an easier (and cheaper) way to access mobile data in Europe during your next trip: an eSIM.

eSIMs are virtual SIM cards that provide mobile data without the need to buy a physical SIM card. They’re easy to install, affordable, and work just as well as regular SIM cards.

And the best eSIM for travelers in Europe? Holafly .  

What is Holafly?

Holafly provides international eSIMs to travelers so they can stay connected as they explore the world. They provide coverage in over 170 countries, including all around Europe. Instead of buying a physical SIM card when you visit a destination, with Holafly, you can use a digital SIM card instead.

To get an eSIM, you’ll first want to browse their plans to see which duration is best for you. They have plans from 5-90 days, costing 19-99 EUR. All of their plans have unlimited data (which is a must in my opinion).

Once you choose your plan, you can make a purchase, either via their website or via their app. Here’s a quick look at the steps involved:

From here, you’ll get additional instructions emailed to you that walk you through the process of setting it up. Set up is via QR code or manually, and if you’re on iOS 17.4, there’s also an option to enable automatic installation and activation with just one tap. All options are super straightforward, but if you run into trouble they have 24/7 support to help you with any issues.

With a Holafly eSIM for Europe , you’ll enjoy unlimited data and even keep your Whatsapp number (which you should download if you don’t use it already, as everyone in Europe uses it, including businesses).

If you’re heading to multiple countries in Europe, having a single eSIM will save you a ton of hassle over buying new physical SIM cards while you travel. And since you can top up your eSIM online, you’ll save a bunch of time too since you never need to find a store to visit to get a SIM or load more data.

(As I mentioned above, Holafly has unlimited data plans for Europe in case you’re worried about data limits.)  

Why Use Holafly in Europe?

While there is plenty of free Wi-Fi around Europe, it’s not available everywhere. And since connections can be slow (or unsafe), having your own mobile data is always recommended. I always make sure I have my own data when I travel around Europe because it’s just so helpful when it comes to booking activities, getting a taxi or Uber, and looking up things like directions of translations.

Holafly is available in 32 countries in Europe, providing fast and stable connections everywhere you go. They’re much, much cheaper than roaming charges, and if you’re visiting multiple countries, having an eSIM is far less of a hassle than trying to buy new physical SIM cards in each new country you visit.

In short, if you’re heading to Europe and want to stay connected, a Holafly eSIM is a must.

Here’s a look at what’s included at a glance:

• Unlimited data
• Plans starting at $19 USD
• Available in 32 countries in Europe
• Easy installation process (automatic on iOS 17.4)
• 24/7 customer support

For me, the unlimited data is the big highlight here. That means you’ll never run out of mobile data for things like Google Maps, Google translate, or looking up things to do.

And since you’ll be keeping your physical SIM card in your phone, you can still take calls to your regular phone number if you need to.

The only downside is that there is no data sharing on their Europe plans (i.e. hot spotting), but with plans so cheap you likely won’t need to share with a friend or family because they can just purchase their own eSIM.

Europe is an amazing region to explore. I never get tired of wandering the continent and always encourage people to visit. Regardless of your interests or budget, there is something here for you. And with a Holafly eSIM you’ll be able to make the most of your trip, save money, and stay safe as you enjoy everything the continent has to offer!

You can download the Holafly app in the App Store or Play store .

Book Your Trip to Europe: Logistical Tips and Tricks

Book Your Flight Use Skyscanner to find a cheap flight. They are my favorite search engine because they search websites and airlines around the globe so you always know no stone is left unturned!

Book Your Accommodation You can book your hostel with Hostelworld as they have the biggest inventory and best deals. If you want to stay somewhere other than a hostel, use Booking.com as they consistently return the cheapest rates for guesthouses and cheap hotels.

For suggestions on where to stay during your trip, here are my favorite hostels in Europe !

Don’t Forget Travel Insurance Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. My favorite companies that offer the best service and value are:

• Safety Wing (best for everyone)
• Insure My Trip (for those over 70)
• Medjet (for additional evacuation coverage)

Looking for the Best Companies to Save Money With? Check out my resource page for the best companies to use when you travel. I list all the ones I use to save money when I’m on the road. They will save you money when you travel too.

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

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

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Best Travel SIM Cards for International Mobile Data in 2024

Thinking about how to plan your tri p ? You need to think about more than what to pack for your travels . A seamless and safe journey relies on connectivity – this starts with your mobile data! Bid farewell to hefty roaming costs and embrace the convenience of international SIM cards. In this updated guide for 2024, we delve into the nuances of local prepaid SIM cards, global travel SIM cards , and the evolving realm of eSIM cards. Let’s explore the best travel SIM card options, pros and cons, and tips to keep you connected while saving on roaming costs.

This article contains affiliate links from the Amazon Associate and Travelpayouts programs. Wild Travel Tales will earn from qualifying purchases, at no extra cost to you .

Our Top 5 Recommendations

• Airalo (#1 recommendation)

Local Prepaid SIM Cards vs. International Travel SIM Cards

Local prepaid SIM cards from destination stores are perfect for single-country travel, offering cost-effective solutions available on arrival, often bundled with generous data for tourists. However, for the avid explorer hopping across multiple countries, international SIM cards and e-SIM cards purchased online provide unmatched flexibility and continuous connectivity. This eliminates the hassle of needing to find a new SIM card every time you enter a new country.

Pros of Local Prepaid SIM Cards

• Cost-effective for single-country use
• Available for purchase on arrival
• Often come with large data bundles for tourists

Pros of International Travel SIM Cards

• Usable in multiple countries
• Ensures continuous connectivity across borders
• Ideal for frequent travellers exploring diverse destinations

Understanding E-SIM Cards

eSIM cards, the future of mobile connectivity, eliminate the need for physical cards. While local prepaid SIM cards are readily available in stores, eSIM cards are primarily obtained online, offering ease of use and flexibility. This means you will be connected as soon as you arrive in the country, eliminating the hassle of needing to find a SIM care in a local store. If you want a seamless, convenient and safe trip, this is the best option for you.

Where to Buy an International SIM Card

Acquiring an international SIM card can only be done online. This is often facilitated through third-party platforms. This guide will direct you to the best websites to buy a global SIM card tailored for world travelers. Direct links to the operators’ websites will be provided, allowing you to explore further details if you find a particular option intriguing.

International SIM cards designed for global travel come in two formats: physical prepaid SIM cards and e-SIM cards. Physical prepaid SIM cards are dispatched to your home address, while e-SIM cards are transmitted to you as a QR code via email.

Where to Buy a Local SIM Card

If you’re in search of local prepaid SIM cards for tourists, they can only be obtained in-person, typically from stores or kiosks within the destination itself. Most countries have dedicated shops offering local prepaid SIM cards at international airports upon your arrival. 

It’s worth noting that purchasing a local prepaid SIM card at an international airport is often pricier. Optimal deals can be secured from official retail stores in city centers, shopping malls, or even random mobile phone shops.

In certain countries, convenience stores, gas stations, or supermarkets also offer local prepaid SIM cards. However, be aware that activating the SIM card from these establishments is typically a self-service process, requiring manual activation rather than a plug-and-play experience.

5 Best Travel SIM Cards for International Mobile Connection

Airalo (recommended #1: best travel sim).

Key Features:

• Data Options: Tailored plans from 1GB to 20GB.
• Validity: Flexible plans ranging from 7 days to 180 days.
• Coverage: Extensive network spanning 84 countries.
• Ease of Use: User-friendly app for buying and activating eSIMs.
• User Trust: Trusted by over 1 million users worldwide.

Best Suited for:

• Frequent travelers exploring diverse regions.
• Those seeking a seamless, app-driven experience.
• Individuals desiring a variety of data options and flexible validity.

Why Airalo?

Airalo stands out as a top choice for global connectivity, offering a range of data options to suit different traveler needs. With a user-friendly app, seamless activation process, and coverage in 84 countries, Airalo ensures that staying connected internationally is convenient and reliable. Whether you’re on a short business trip or an extended backpacking adventure, Airalo provides the flexibility and trust you need for uninterrupted communication on the go. Click here to check out Airalo SIM cards best suited for you.

Types of SIM Cards

Airalo offers a range of SIM card options, with different coverage:

• Local eSIMs: Choose an eSIM specifically suited for the country you are visiting. This is typically more affordable than multi-country options.
• Regional eSIMs: Choose an eSIM which will keep you connected across entire continents (e.g., one eSIM for all of Europe). This is the best option if you will be travelling through multiple countries.
• Global eSIMs – the “DISCOVER CARD”: One eSIM for global connection. This card will keep you online in every single country. This will be suitable for travellers hopping across the globe, through multiple countries and continents.

• Data Options: Tailored plans to suit various data needs.
• Validity: Ensuring connectivity for the duration you need.
• Coverage: Extensive network spanning global destinations.
• No physical swapping: Fully virtual SIM cards eliminates the hassle of physical SIMs. You will not need to constantly swap or manage multiple cards.
• 24/7 customer support: You will have assistance around the clock to ensure connectivity.

Why Drimsim?

Drimsim emerges as a go-to choice for global travellers seeking seamless connectivity. With customisable data plans, reliable coverage worldwide, and a commitment to providing connectivity for the duration you require, Drimsim ensures you stay connected effortlessly. You select the country you are visiting, then pay only for the data you use. Whether you’re a business traveler or an adventurer exploring diverse regions, Drimsim offers the flexibility and reliability needed for a smooth communication experience on the go. Click here to check out Drimsim SIM cards best suited for you.

• Virtual SIM Technology: HolaFly introduces virtual SIMs, eliminating the need for physical cards and simplifying the connectivity process.
• Diverse Packages: Offering a range of packages, HolaFly ensures users can choose plans that align with their specific data and travel requirements.
• Downloadable Convenience: With the ability to download the virtual SIM before departure, HolaFly streamlines the onboarding process, making it a convenient solution for modern travelers.
• Global Compatibility: As e-SIM compatibility becomes more widespread, HolaFly positions itself as a leading provider with innovative and competitive packages for the future.
• User-Friendly Experience: HolaFly prioritizes a user-friendly experience, making it easy for travelers to navigate and manage their virtual SIM connectivity.
• Modern travelers with e-SIM compatible devices.
• Those seeking a streamlined and convenient connectivity solution.
• Individuals desiring diverse data packages for global travel.

Why HolaFly?

HolaFly stands at the forefront of global connectivity with its virtual SIM technology, diverse packages, and commitment to user-friendly experiences. Whether you’re a tech-savvy explorer or a business professional on the move, HolaFly provides the innovative and convenient connectivity solution needed for a seamless global travel experience. Click here to check out Holafly SIM cards best suited for you.

• Versatility: OneSimCard offers both e-SIM and traditional SIM options, providing users with flexibility in choosing their preferred connectivity method.
• Wide and Reliable Coverage: Boasting extensive coverage in over 200 countries, OneSimCard ensures a reliable connection wherever your travels take you.
• Low SIM-Purchasing Fees: With affordable SIM-purchasing fees, OneSimCard makes global connectivity accessible without breaking the bank.
• Global Compatibility: Suited for both e-SIM and traditional SIM devices, OneSimCard caters to a broad range of users with varying device preferences.
• Globetrotters seeking a universal SIM solution for diverse destinations.
• Those desiring both e-SIM and traditional SIM options for device compatibility.
• Travelers looking for cost-effective global connectivity.

Why OneSimCard?

OneSimCard serves as a universal passport to global connectivity, offering versatility, wide coverage, and affordability. Whether you’re exploring multiple countries or simply need a reliable solution for a specific region, OneSimCard provides the connectivity you need without the hassle of changing cards at every turn. Click here to check out OneSimCard options best suited for you.

TravelSim Worldwide Card

• Cost-Effective Solution: TravelSim provides a budget-friendly international SIM card, making it an economical choice for global travelers.
• Straightforward Pricing Structure: With a transparent pricing structure, TravelSim eliminates surprises, ensuring users understand their costs upfront.
• Broad Coverage: Usable in over 170 countries, TravelSim offers extensive coverage, making it a reliable choice for diverse travel itineraries.
• In-Store Availability: Convenience is key, and TravelSim can be purchased not only online but also in physical stores, providing flexibility in procurement.
• Cost-conscious travelers seeking an affordable international SIM card.
• Individuals desiring transparent and straightforward pricing.
• Those requiring broad coverage for travel across various countries.

Why TravelSim Worldwide Card?

TravelSim Worldwide Card stands out as a cost-effective and transparent solution for global communication. Whether you’re a budget-conscious traveler or someone looking for hassle-free connectivity across diverse destinations, TravelSim offers a reliable gateway to seamless global communication. Click here to check out TravelSim cards best suited for you.

Navigating the vast landscape of international SIM cards is a crucial step in ensuring seamless connectivity during your global adventures. Whether you’re a solo backpacker, a digital nomad, or a casual traveler, choosing the right SIM card can make a significant difference in your journey. In this comprehensive guide, we’ve explored the merits of local prepaid SIM cards, the convenience of global travel SIM cards, and the promising future of e-SIM technology.

The best SIM for tourists depends on individual preferences and travel patterns. Options like Airalo, Drimsim, and OneSimCard offer global coverage, flexibility, and cost-effectiveness for different travel needs.

Travel SIMs are often worth it for frequent travellers or those exploring multiple countries. They provide cost-effective connectivity, eliminate high roaming costs, and offer tailored data options.

While no SIM card works in every country, options like OneSimCard and Drimsim offer broad international coverage, making them suitable for diverse travel itineraries.

Using a local prepaid SIM card in each country is often the cheapest way to use your phone overseas. Alternatively, global SIMs with competitive rates, like TravelSim, can also be cost-effective.

Yes, tourists can buy SIM cards in most countries. They are available at international airports, local stores, and convenience shops. Online options like Airalo and SimOptions also cater to tourists.

Both eSIM and physical SIM have their advantages. eSIMs offer flexibility and convenience, while physical SIMs may be preferred for users with older devices or those who prefer a tangible card.

Yes, eSIMs work on international roaming, offering the convenience of activating multiple profiles for different countries without the need for physical swapping.

eSIMs work by digitally storing SIM card information on a device. Users can download eSIM profiles, allowing them to switch between different mobile carriers without the need for a physical SIM card.

Taking out your home SIM card and using a local or international SIM can save on roaming costs. For those with dual SIM phones, keeping the home SIM for calls and using a travel SIM for data is a common approach.

Tourist SIMs are often designed for short-term use, offering specific benefits like large data allowances. Local SIMs may require more extensive documentation but may provide better long-term value with local rates.

Freya is a travel writer from the UK. She loves discovering unique destinations, exploring old towns and hiking through beautiful natural landscapes.

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That’s double the data for the same attractive price. BUY NOW: Sales Promotion ends on September 30th. You have full 365 days to activate the eSIM after the date of purchase.

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What is eSIM?

eSIM is a digital SIM that you can download. No plastic, no shop visits.It’s easier and greener. Install and get online in a matter of minutes!

Stay connected

Use single eSIM across 45+ European countries and stay connected

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Get your eSIM immediately via email, and connect within seconds

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Keep your original SIM

Your existing SIM card will continue to work, eSIM provides data connectivity

How it works

No more swapping SIM cards when you travel! Buy your eSIM before you go for faster, easier connectivity - wherever you roam.

Before purchasing, make sure that your device is eSIM compatible using our device compatibility tool.

Install your eSIM as soon as possible. You’ll need a stable internet connection. You can use another device to scan your QR code or install your eSIM manually.

Activate when you are ready to use the eSIM. You can do it in flight or upon arrival at your destination (you don’t need an internet connection to activate).

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Enjoy 4G/LTE and 5G coverage (where available) in the following countries and regions with our Europe eSIM Plan

United Kingdom

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Home   /   International SIM Card   /   OneSimCard eSIM World

OneSimCard eSIM World

• Virtual second SIM card (eSIM)
• Make your compatible unlocked phone a dual SIM phone
• Works with many Apple iPhone, Google Pixel, Samsung and other devices
• Coverage in 150+ countries with free incoming calls received on EU number in most of them
• Includes 1 number: Europe. Add extra numbers in 60+ other countries
• Mobile data service from 1c/MB; 4G/5G available
• Data, Voice and Text. Extra savings available with OneSIM VoIP app
• Bi-Weekly/Monthly data discount plans
• Perfect for travelers worldwide
• Live Customer Support
• No shipping. Download eSIM and go.
• Instructions

What Is The OneSimCard eSIM International SIM Card?

eSIM is a virtual SIM card that converts your eSIM capable mobile phone into a dual SIM phone. With OneSimCard eSIM you can have two service providers working at the same time either at home or when traveling abroad. You can select on your phone which service provider you would like to use for mobile data – the telecom provider of the physical SIM or OneSimCard.

The OneSimCard eSIM SIM card is designed specifically for international travelers who:

• Want low cost international mobile data, voice and text service around the world, including in the USA and Canada.
• Want to keep 2+ roaming options available while traveling.
• Already have an eSIM capable device:

*Important Note : iPhone XS and XR manufactured for the Chinese Market have 2 physical SIM card slots and are not eSIM capable. iPhones and Pixel phones can't use eSIM if the phone was purchased in Japan, or if bought with Verizon or Charter service. Check with your service provider to ensure your device can operate with a 3rd party eSIM.

Here's how it works: The OneSimCard eSIM global SIM card can only be installed onto one eSIM capable device. The software installation instructions are extremely simple and it only takes 30 seconds to complete. Once the eSIM is installed your phone becomes a dual SIM phone and you will be able to select which data service to use and make changes to this selection at any time if required.

Data, Voice and Text services are included on eSIM. Additionally, if you chose to order a Personal Extra Number (PEN) with your eSIM, then you will also be able to make and receive low cost calls using our OneSim VOIP app. US and Canada PENs allow to receive and send texts.

To learn more about the differences between international SIM cards, visit our  FAQ section .

• Very easy to set up and use on your phone. To install – scan QR code and follow simple instructions to set up.
• Once installed, the eSIM can stay on your phone for years.
• It could be easily removed and then re-installed up to 9 times on the same device
• Data, Talk and Text. Additionally, OneSimCard eSIM can be used with the SIM VOIP app and OneSimCard PEN for extra savings on Voice and Text Messaging services.
• Works with many unlocked eSIM capable devices:
• This is a software product that does not require any shipping.  Installation instructions will be provided on-line once the order is processed.

Package includes:

• OneSimCard eSIM International SIM Card profile

iPhone        Android

Installing ESIM On Your iPhone

• You can view a video of the installation procedure here: https://youtu.be/4z4FbbYcRnM
• Log in to your on-line account at www.OneSimCard.com , proceed to Recharge Menu and click on View QR code link on the screen. If you logged in to your account from the same device you are installing the eSIM to, please print out the QR code.
• On your phone go to Settings -> Cellular or Mobile Data -> Add Data Plan. The device camera will switch on, ready to scan your OneSimCard eSIM QR code and to start downloading the eSIM. The QR code can't reside on the same device you are installing the eSIM to.
• Scan the QR-code with your camera. Important: the code may only be installed only onto one device. It can't be moved to another device. No exceptions.
• Click on "Add cellular plan".
• eSIM will now be downloaded to your device. You will see the following message: "A cellular plan from Elisa is ready to be added to iPhone".
• A screen will appear asking you to give a name to your eSIM-card. You may keep the default name, i.e. "Secondary or Travel".
• Another screen will appear asking you to choose a default SIM-card. Choose eSIM for DATA connection.
• Please consider ordering US or Canada PEN from the Recharge Menu of your on-line account. The PEN will not show up in the phone settings. It will be only available through OneSim VoIP app. It will provide you with a second US or Canada phone number and allow you to use OneSim VOIP app for low cost calling and texting.
• For data to start working on your device, please turn on Data Roaming on your phone for eSIM: Settings-Cellular (Mobile Data) menu.

Pixel or other Android eSIM compatible phones.

If you have a Pixel 3a or 4 or other Android eSIM capable unlocked phone, you can use one or two SIMs on your phone, one physical SIM card and one eSIM. You can choose which SIM to use for mobile data which one to use for calls and texts. Please make sure to update the phone to the latest Android OS

eSIM will work with only unlocked phones. We are currently aware only of Google directly sold Pixels working with eSIM. Carrier sold Pixels might have different software that does not show eSIM option, like Verizon Pixels or those sold in Japan, Australia and other countries.

We can't know which specific phone software will work with the eSIM. So, please make sure to check with the carrier or company that sold you the phone.

Important: Some of these steps work only on Android 10 and up.

These are instructions for eSIM installation. For more updated instructions, please check with Google.

You can view a video on full instructions here: https://youtu.be/ji25-FPQAJY

Set up eSIM as a second SIM

On a phone that's already using a SIM card, but not yet using an eSIM:

• Open your phone's Settings app.
• Network & internet .
• Next to "Mobile network," tap Add Carrier
• Tap Don't have a SIM card?
• Select Start SIM-Free Setup Instead .
• Select Next
• From here, follow instructions for eSIM a s a First SIM below

Set up eSIM as a first SIM

• Make sure Wi-Fi is connected to your Pixel phone
• Have a QR code from your carrier? Scan now
• On your other device ( laptop, desktop or other mobile phone), log in to your on-line account and click on View QR codes in the Recharge Menu
• Point the phone to scan the QR code on the screen
• Your eSIM is ready to be added to your phone - Start
• Wait for the number to be added
• On the screen you will see : Phone Number Added
• Go to Mobile Networks Settings
• Turn on Mobile Data and Data Roaming for eSIM
• Turn off Wi-Fi to test the eSIM
• Test eSIM by opening the Chrome browser and going to ma.onesimcard.com

You should see the free log in page of OneSimCard mini account.

Please consider ordering a US or Canada phone number from your OneSimCard on-line account and download and install OneSim VOIP app. This will allow you to use low cost calls and texts. This option is available in the Recharge Menu of your on-line account at www.OneSimCard.com

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Best eSIM for Traveling to the USA in 2024

Are you planning your trip to the United States and looking for an eSIM to stay connected? This is a complete guide with everything you need to know before ordering an eSIM for traveling to the USA.

In this guide you can find a comparison of the best eSIMs for the United States, up to date prices as per September 2024, all the USA eSIM specifications, my recommendation and the advantages and disadvantages of eSIMs.

I will show you where and when to order an eSIM, more info about the network coverage and 4G/5G network and data speed, answers to the most FAQ about eSIMs, a comparison with local prepaid sim cards and of course links to directly order your eSIM for the United States on the internet.

Already since 2012 I am a full time nomadic travel blogger traveling the world continuously and I constantly get to different countries. Pretty much every week I need to look for a new sim card. In 2022 I visited for example 62 different countries and in 2023 I traveled to 34 countries so imagine how many different prepaid and eSIMs I used over the last two years.

In the past I used to buy a local prepaid sim card on arrival in every country, but nowadays I mostly use eSIMs for staying connected when traveling abroad.

Helping fellow travelers to save money while traveling the world is one of the reasons I started this travel blog. Providing essential travel tips is how I started writing sim card guides from every country I visited and now on Traveltomtom you can already find more than 200 sim card guides from all over the world.

Of course I also wrote a complete guide for buying a tourist sim card for traveling to USA in 2024  and you can also find guides for buying a sim card on arrival at Miami Airport , Newark Airport , New York JFK Airport .

Traveltomtom also wrote specific guides for buying eSIMs for: Canada ,  Turkey ,  France , Spain , Greece , Germany , Portugal , Italy ,  Europe , Turkey ,  Asia ,  Thailand , China , Australia , Hong Kong , Singapore ,  international eSIMs  and many more.

So next time you are planning your adventure abroad come check out Traveltomtom for the latest prepaid sim card and eSIM advice for your holiday destination.

Some links in this article about the best eSIMs for the USA are affiliate links. If you buy any product after clicking on an affiliate link I will earn a small commission. Don't worry this is at absolutely no extra cost to you!

My recommendation

Traveltomtom recommends the following eSIMs for traveling to the USA in 2024:

1. Change+ eSIM for the USA from Airalo

• 200 minutes
• Valid in USA + Puerto Rico
• Valid for 30 days
• $2.60 USD per Gigabyte

Use the Airalo discount code: TOMTOM3 to get an extra $3 USD off your first Airalo eSIM. Coupon code valid until September 2024!

Airalo is the only eSIM provider that offers USA eSIMs that support 5G network and is the only eSIM provider that offers eSIMs for the USA with calling and texting included.

Therefore it is an easy choice to rate Airalo as the best eSIM provider for USA eSIMs.

You can also get a data-only eSIM with 10 GB data for $26 USD or for $16 USD you get 5 GB data-only. 

Click on the link for all USA eSIM plans from Airalo.

Click here for more info or to directly order an Airalo eSIM for traveling in the USA .

2. Jetpac USA eSIM

• 40 GB data-only eSIM
• Valid in USA
• $0.9 USD per Gigabyte only

Jetpac has multiple eSIM plans for the USA. Jetpac offers the best value eSIM for the USA with a rate that goes down to $0.5 USD per Gigabyte.

Traveltomtom readers now get an extra 10% off on all Jetpac eSIMs when using the promo code: TOMTOM10 at check out!

3. Three HK eSIM from SimOptions

• 20 GB data-only eSIM
• Valid in USA, Canada, UK, Hong Kong, Australia and New Zealand
• $1.75 USD per Gigabyte only

SimOptions sells many USA eSIM plans with a rate that go down as much as $1.75 USD per Gigabyte. But the best one is from Three HK. You can order a Three HK eSIM via SimOptions, they are not 5G ready, only 4G/LTE is supported.

If you are looking to buy an eSIM on arrival in the USA in an official mobile internet store that is also possible, but in fact more expensive.

Verizon, T-Mobile and AT&T all offer eSIMs for tourists. For $65 USD you get unlimited data, calls & sms in the USA for 30 days. But you can only buy these eSIMs in person in the store.

A bummer is that you can NOT buy Verizon, T-Mobile or AT&T eSIMs at any international airport in the USA. You have to locate a phone store nearby your hotel, get in line, bring your passport for registration, etc. Much more work than just ordering an eSIM on the internet.

There are 2 very important things to check before ordering an eSIM for the USA.

Unlocked phones only

Make sure your phone is unlocked. eSIMs only work in unlocked phones. If you are not sure if your phone is unlocked then contact your mobile internet provider in your home country. 

In general phones from Europe, Asia and the Middle East tend to be unlocked. Phones from North America are often locked.

If your smartphone is locked that means it does not allow another prepaid sim card or eSIM to operate in the device. You can easily unlock your phone, but depending on your mobile internet provider you will be charged a fee for unlocking your phone.

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eSIM compatible phones only

Second, and equally important: a-sim cards only work if your smartphone supports eSIMs, also called eSIM compatible. All newer smartphones support eSIMs. If you are not sure if your phone is eSIM compatible then simply go to Google and type in your mobile phone model in the search bar and ask if it is eSIM compatible. You will get the answer instantly.

If your phone is NOT eSIM compatible then there is no other solution and you can NOT use an eSIM for traveling to the USA. 

However, you can still order a sim card for the United States on the internet before your trip. Check out Traveltomtom's complete guide for buying a sim card for the USA in 2024  or read my guide with everything you need to know before ordering an international sim card for traveling abroad in 2024 .

USA eSIM comparison

On arrival in the USA you can now also buy an eSIM in an official phone store from Verizon, T-Mobile or AT&T. However, if you want to arrive prepared and have data on your phone as soon as the plane lands it is much more convenient to order an eSIM for the USA on the internet.

There are multiple website on the internet that sell eSIMs for the USA. Traveltomtom recommends ordering an eSIM for traveling in the USA from: SimOptions, Jetpac, Nomad, Holafly, Airalo, Sim Local, etc.  one of the well-known eSIM providers that have proven to be reliable operators.

Traveltomtom's favorite eSIM providers have been  SimOptions  and  Airalo  for many years, but are they the cheapest? The competition is fierce...

Before you buy an eSIM first read all my tips below.

SimOptions also offers international prepaid sim cards for USA . These are pre-activated physical prepaid sim cards and will be delivered to your home address before your trip to America and it is plug and play when you arrive in the US. 

Airalo, Holafly, Jetpac and Nomad only sell eSIMs for the USA.

Jetpac is a new eSIM provider and they are trying to gain ground by not only offering eSIM solutions, but also add a couple benefits for travelers who order an eSIM via Jetpac. I have tried it out myself and some benefits can come in pretty handy. More about it later.

The Traveltomtom team has tried Jetpac now in a couple different countries without any issues, only positive reviews.

One of the main reasons why Jetpac is listed as one of the best eSIMs for USA is their competitive prices and in fact when we look at the price per Gigabyte, Jetpac is the best eSIM for USA in 2024.

Check out the Jetpac eSIM plans for USA in 2024:

• 1 GB data for 4 days = $1 USD
• 3 GB data for 7 days = $5 USD
• 5 GB data for 30 days = $8 USD
• 10 GB data for 30 days = $13 USD
• 15 GB data for 30 days = $17 USD
• 25 GB data for 30 days = $25 USD
• 30 GB data for 30 days = $28 USD
• 40 GB data for 30 days = $33 USD
• 50 GB data for 10 days = $25 USD

Click here to order a Jetpac eSIM for the United States .

The Jetpac eSIM plan for USA with 40 GB data for $36 USD makes it the best value eSIM for USA with a rate of only $0.9 USD per Gigabyte.

But in fact Jetpac goes even lower nowadays with only $0.5 USD per Gigabyte on their 50 GB data plan for 10 days for only $25 USD!

You can instal your Jetpac eSIM before your trip to USA, but it only activates from the moment it connects to a supported network in USA. That moment your days also start counting. The Jetpac eSIMs have to be installed within 1 year.

The Jetpac USA eSIMs are data-only and incoming and outgoing calls are not supported. Data is valid in USA only and the Jetpac eSIMs operate on the 4G/LTE/5G network of T-Mobile USA. Yes, the Jetpac eSIMs for the USA are 5G ready.

An extra advantage of using a Jetpac eSIM is that you get a free VPN subscription, 50% discount on airport lounges and Fast Track passes. And 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.

These are all complimentary services that no other eSIM provider offers. For more info check the Jetpac website .

SimOptions is a very reliable eSIM provider and Traveltomtom has used SimOptions uncountable times in more than 50 countries around the world. I can totally recommend using SimOptions for ordering your USA eSIM.

Their best USA eSIM gives you 20 GB data for $34.90 USD. That is $1.75 USD per Gigabyte. SimOptions has several eSIM plans for traveling in the USA in 2024.

Why does Traveltomtom recommend SimOptions? They often have a wide array of eSIMs for sale, including international eSIMs valid in multiple countries.

Here are the SimOptions eSIM plans for the USA:

• 1 GB data for 30 days = $4.5 USD
• 6 GB data for 10 days = $17.9 USD
• 10 GB data for 15 days = $19.9 USD

Click here for more info or to  order a SimOptions eSIM for the USA .

SimOptions does not specify which network they use in the USA on the above eSIMs. Apart from the first plan (1 GB) they are also NOT 5G ready, only 4G/LTE network is supported. The SimOptions eSIMs are data-only and they do not come with a phone number. Incoming and outgoing calls and sms are not supported.

But there is more...

SimOptions also sells international eSIMs that are valid in multiple countries. These eSIMs are from Three Hong Kong and are valid in Canada, United Kingdom, Australia, Hong Kong, New Zealand and in the USA:

• 10 GB data for 30 days = $24.90 USD
• 20 GB data for 30 days = $34.90 USD

Click here to order an international eSIM for USA from SimOptions . 

The best buy eSIM for the United States from SimOptions is the Three (3) HK eSIM. The Three HK international eSIM with 20 GB data for $34.90 USD comes down to $1.75 USD per Gigabyte.

Also the Three eSIMs for the United States are the only eSIMs from all the USA eSIMs available on the internet that come with a phone number from Hong Kong that starts with +852.

Which means you can receive calls and sms. Making calls and sending sms is not supported.

On the Three eSIMs from Hong Kong, Traveltomtom readers have recently reported that TikTok is blocked, due to regulations in Hong Kong, as it is a Hong Kong based eSIM.

The Three eSIMs are valid for 1 year, meaning you have to install/activate the eSIM within 1 year. Therefore it could be a perfect travel gift for someone traveling to the USA. Once activated the validity of 30 days start immediately, even if you are not yet in the USA.

For more info check out the SimOptions website .

Having any problems with a SimOptions eSIM then contact their help desk. SimOptions has a live chat on their website during business hours but in all honesty Traveltomtom is not a fan of the SimOptions Live chat and had some mixed experiences.

Check out my honest review of SimOptions eSIMs with all pros and cons .

Airalo is another very reputable eSIM provider that is very much recommended by Traveltomtom. Ordering your eSIM for the USA through Airalo is done fast and easy.

Why using Airalo?

Traveltomtom has used Airalo uncountable times for staying connected when traveling abroad. Very reliable, never an issue and often some of the cheapest eSIM deals.

What sets Airalo eSIMs for the USA apart from other providers is that they are all 5G ready. eSIMs from Jetpac, SimOptions, Sim Local are NOT 5G ready.

However, the best thing about Airalo is that they offer eSIMs for the USA including calls and sms. No other eSIM provider has these kind of USA eSIMs available!

If you only use a little bit of data while traveling and need just 1 or 2 GB data to stay in touch through WhatsApp, check your email sometimes and get directions from Google Maps, then Airalo is also great eSIM for traveling in the USA.

Airalo has data-only plans and plans including data/calls/sms.

Airalo data-only plans

Here are the USA eSIM plans for 2024 from Airalo:

• 1 GB data for 7 days = $4.5 USD
• 2 GB data for 15 days = $8 USD
• 3 GB data for 30 days = $11 USD
• 5 GB data for 30 days = $16 USD
• 10 GB data for 30 days = $26 USD
• 20 GB data for 30 days = $42 USD

Click here to order an eSIM for USA from Airalo .

Airalo data/calls/sms plans

Here are the Airalo USA eSIM plans including calling and texting:

• 1 GB data + 20 minutes + 10 sms for 7 days= $7 USD
• 2 GB data + 40 minutes + 20 sms for 15 days= $12.5 USD
• 3 GB data + 60 minutes + 30 sms for 30 days= $16 USD
• 5 GB data + 100 minutes + 50 sms for 30 days= $22.5 USD
• 10 GB data + 200 minutes + 100 sms for 30 days= $34.5 USD
• 20 GB data + 400 minutes + 200 sms for 30 days= $49 USD

Click here to order a data/calls/text eSIM for the USA from Airalo .

Traveltomtom readers now get an extra $3 USD discount on their first Airalo eSIM.

Use the Airalo discount code: TOMTOM3 to get an extra $3 USD off your first Airalo eSIM. Coupon code valid until September 2024.

All the above Change+ eSIMs are only valid in the USA + Puerto Rico and they operate on the 4G/LTE/5G network of Verizon and T-Mobile. Big advantage of the Airalo eSIMs compared to SimOptions, Jetpac and Sim Local is that the Airalo eSIMs for the USA are 5G ready.

The Airalo data-only eSIMs do NOT support calling and texting and they do not come with a phone number. You can not receive calls and text on these eSIMs.

The Airalo eSIM plans with calling minutes included come with a phone number from the USA that starts with +1. International calls are NOT supported and also be aware that incoming calls minutes are deducted from minutes balance.

Because all the above available eSIM plans including calls and sms Airalo is rated as the best eSIM for traveling to the USA in 2024.

The USA eSIMs from Airalo have to be installed/activated on your phone within 1 month after purchase otherwise they lose their validity. After installing, the eSIMs starts its validity from the first moment when it connects to a supported network, basically the moment the plane lands. For more info check out the Airalo website .

Sim Local is an eSIM provider from Europe that started with Sim Local shops at international airports in Europe selling physical prepaid sim cards for tourists. They have now also stepped into the world of eSIMs.

They have now loads of shops in many major airports around the world, but they also sell eSIMs through their website for loads of countries around the world.

Here are the Sim Local eSIM plans for the USA:

• 1 GB data for 7 days = $4 USD
• 3 GB data for 30 days = $9.5 USD
• 5 GB data for 30 days = $14 USD
• 10 GB data for 30 days = $27.50 USD
• 20 GB data for 30 days = $53 USD

Click here to order a USA eSIM from Sim Local .

Traveltomtom readers now get 15% off on all Sim Local eSIMs when they use the coupon code: TRAVELTOMTOM at check out! 

The small eSIM plans from Sim Local are very competitive and rival other eSIM providers.

The Sim Local eSIMs are from Smartroam and they operate on the 4G/LTE network of Verizon. The Smartroam eSIMs are data-only and incoming and outgoing calls are not supported.

Nomad is quickly trying to gain some ground in the eSIM business by constantly adding new eSIM deals and offers to their USA plans. Nomad is now a couple years active on the eSIM market and Traveltomtom has had some mixed experiences with Nomad eSIMs.

However, for 2024 Nomad has some of the cheapest eSIM plans for traveling to the United States.

Nomad offers two types of eSIMs for the USA: regular plans and daily plans.

Regular plans

Here are the Nomad eSIM plans for the USA:

• 1 GB data for 7 days = $6 USD
• 10 GB data for 30 days = $18 USD
• 20 GB data for 30 days = $28 USD

Click here to order an eSIM for USA from Nomad .

Nomad always has a lot of eSIM deals and sales on their eSIM plans. At the moment it looks great to buy an eSIM from Nomad for traveling to the USA in 2024 when it comes to the price of eSIM plans.

However, the Traveltomtom Team has ran into some issues with Nomad eSIMs that has put us a bit off in recommending Nomad eSIMs to be honest. In general you should not run into problems, but for the Traveltomtom it has unfortunately already been 3x that an issue occurred during the installation and we had to wait a long time for it to be solved. So we were NOT online as soon as the plane landed!

All the Nomad eSIM plans for the USA are from eSIM Go and they operate on the 4G/LTE/5G network of AT&T and T-Mobile. These eSIM Go plans are 5G ready and are data-only sim cards. Incoming and outgoing calls are not supported.

The Nomad USA eSIMs have to be installed/activated on your phone within 1 month after purchase otherwise they are automatically activated. After installing, the eSIMs starts its validity from the first moment when it connects to a supported network, basically the moment the plane lands in the USA. For more info check the Nomad website .

Daily plans

Nomad also has daily plans. These eSIMs could perfect for those going on a short trip to USA. You basically get 1 GB high speed data per 24 hours. After 1 GB data your data speed is reduced to 512 Kbps, that is similar to an E signal. Check the following daily plans:

• 1 GB data per day for 1 day = $4 USD
• 1 GB data per day for 3 day = $7 USD
• 1 GB data per day for 5 day = $11 USD
• 1 GB data per day for 7 day = $16 USD
• 1 GB data per day for 10 day = $22 USD

When I saw the prices for these eSIMs I was pleasantly surprised. If you are careful with the amount of Gigabytes you use per day it could be a great eSIM for the USA.

Personally, this daily plan would not be enough for me as I can easily spend 1 GB data in just 1 hour on a bus or train ride.

Watching TikTok video for about 45 minutes is about 1 GB data, watching Instagram reels for 30 minutes is also already 1 GB data. It depends how many gigabytes you use per day, but it could be a great eSIM for traveling to USA.

Click here to order this Nomad daily plan eSIM for the USA from Nomad . 

Holafly sells eSIMs for USA with unlimited data. Traveltomtom is not a fan of eSIMs with 'unlimited' data, but more about that later. Here are the Holafly eSIM plans for traveling to the USA:

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

The Holafly eSIMs for USA are data-only and incoming and outgoing calls/sms are NOT supported. These eSIMs do not come with a phone number. The Holafly eSIMs operate on the 4G/LTE/5G network of AT&T USA. The Holafly eSIMs for the USA are 5G ready.

However, Traveltomtom was not satisfied with the performance of a Holafly eSIM in the USA. Tested and reviewed and what was sometimes disappointing was the data speed, especially inside buildings. Instagram and Tiktok was not working smooth and often buffering, especially Instagram reels.

You can use a hotspot on the Holafly USA eSIMs, but it is capped at 500 MB per day.

Why 'unlimited'? Because there is a Fair Use Policy and Traveltomtom has had bad experiences with this in the past. Suddenly your data speed is slowed down for 24 hours because you apparently used too much data. More info later.

If I hate something then it is slow data speed. Therefore Traveltomtom's is not a fan of eSIMs with 'unlimited' data and therefore it is not my first recommendation when looking for an eSIM for USA.

You can buy an eSIM for pretty much every country in the world from the above trusted providers. Order directly from one of the above eSIM providers and instantly receive your eSIM in your email.

An eSIM from T-Mobile can only be bought on arrival in the USA and only in an official store of T-Mobile. The activation fee for a new costumer is $10 USD and on top of that T-Mobile charges another $4.99 USD for an eSIM and then you can choose from one of the following plans excluding tax:

• 10 GB data = $40 USD
• Unlimited data + 3G hotspot = $50 USD
• Unlimited data + 10 GB 4G hotspot = $60 USD

The good thing about buying a T-Mobile eSIM on arrival in the USA in a phone store is that it comes with unlimited calling and texting in the USA.

Again, a T-Mobile eSIM is not available online, only in stores in the USA.

An eSIM from AT&T can only be bought on arrival in the USA and only in an official store of AT&T. The activation fee for a new costumer is $14.99 USD and on top of that AT&T charges another $4.99 USD for an eSIM and then you can choose from one of the following plans excluding tax:

• 5 GB data = $30 USD
• 15 GB data = $40 USD
• Unlimited calls/sms and data = $65 USD

The good thing about buying an AT&T eSIM on arrival in the USA in a phone store is that it comes with unlimited calling and texting in the USA.

Again, an AT&T eSIM is not available online, only in stores in the USA.

An eSIM from Verizon can only be bought on arrival in the USA and only in an official store of Verizon. Verizon offer 3 prepaid plans for tourists that are available as eSIMs. These are the prices exclusive tax:

• 15 GB data + unlimited calls/sms = $45 USD
• Unlimited calls/sms and data + 5 GB hotspot = $60 USD
• Unlimited calls/sms and data + 25 GB hotspot = $70 USD

The official registration fee for a Verizon prepaid plan is $25 USD, but is waived away often. A Verizon eSIM is not available online, only in stores in the USA.

Why did Traveltomtom already use hundreds of eSIMs? I travel the world full time and I am on the road constantly which seriously means I use about 40 to 50 different sim cards per year.

Traveltomtom is also on the road to 197, meaning I would like to travel to every country in the world . As of September 2024 I have visited more than 155 countries.

What is the cheapest eSIM for the USA

A Jetpac eSIM for just $1 USD is the cheapest eSIM for traveling in the USA, but it is only valid for 4 days.

The USA eSIM from Airalo  start from just $4.5 USD. You only get 1 GB and it is valid for 7 days. For some travelers that is enough. Especially if you only need it for directions and staying in touch through WhatsApp. Top Up is possible, may you run out.

Why ordering an eSIM for traveling in the USA

eSIMs are the easiest way to stay connected when traveling to USA in 2024. You arrange everything online in just a couple minutes. No more visiting a sim card shop and swapping physical sim cards in your phone. Order online, scan the QR code, follow the steps and you are connected in less than 2 minutes.

The most important reason is because we would like to stay connected on our trip to USA. Our smartphones are pretty useless without a working data connection. Think about ordering a taxi through an app (Uber is Grab in USA), finding nearby friends, restaurants, bars. Get directions from Google Maps or simply stay in touch with family back home, check out social media apps on long bus rides or check your banking apps when paying contactless.

One of the best things about arriving in the USA with an activated eSIM is that you are online as soon as the plane lands and you connect to a network. More about when to instal your eSIM later. 

There are so many reasons to stay connected when traveling to the USA, but the most important reason is that it makes your trip to USA so much more convenient and fun!

At the same time we don't want to waste money on high roaming charges. Many mobile internet operators still charge $2 USD per MB for data roaming, that means just opening the Instagram app will already cost you 25 MB * $2 USD = $50 USD! Not kidding… it still is reality in 2024.

eSIMs are the easiest way to avoid high roaming charges!

International data roaming plans

So what about overseas data roaming plans? Well, not recommended! Why? Did you read the small letters at what speed you can use data roaming? Pretty much all mobile internet operators limit the data speed for overseas data roaming plans, which means you end up with 3G data speed, but there is 5G in the USA everywhere!

Uncountable times (mostly American) travel friends asked me: "can I use your hotspot? My data roaming plan is so slow, it is barely working!". Trust me, get yourself an eSIM or an international prepaid sim card for traveling abroad .

Where to buy an eSIM for USA?

You can only buy an eSIM for the USA on the internet through an eSIM provider. There are multiple eSIM providers for the USA. Traveltomtom compared 6 eSIM providers and determined that the above mentioned ones ( SimOptions , Jetpac , Holafly,  Airalo ,  Nomad ) are the best eSIM providers for traveling to USA in 2024.

None of the mobile internet operators in the USA sell tourist eSIMs on their own websites. 

When buying an eSIM for the USA through one of the above recommended eSIM providers you only need your email address and the eSIM is instantly ready to use after installation. There is no ID registration needed. 

On arrival in USA

When you arrive in the USA and you want to buy an eSIM for tourists then you will have to find an official retail store of either T-Mobile or AT&T nearby and you will have to go in person to buy an eSIM in the USA. In the store you can buy a tourist sim card and only in the official retail stores of AT&T and T-Mobile they are able to provide eSIMs for tourists.

But keep in mind that this takes time and it is NOT cheaper at all! It is in fact even more expensive, hence why Traveltomtom recommends to order your eSIM for traveling in the USA online.

For the best prepaid sim cards for tourists in the USA in 2024  click on the link to read my complete guide and comparison of all the mobile internet providers in USA, including a comparison of the 4G/5G network.

How to activate an eSIM

Installing and activating an eSIM is made as simple as possible. Everyone can activate an eSIM and the instructions on how to are very detailed and will be send to you instantly by email.

When you order an eSIM plan for the USA you instantly receive a summery of your order including a QR-code after the payment is processed.

You will see a summary of your eSIM order including a QR code on your screen and at the same time you will also receive an email with the same QR code. The email contains instructions on how to instal and activate your USA eSIM.

But installing an activating an eSIM is as easy as scanning the QR code with the same phone where you want to activate the eSIM on. The QR contains all the information about your USA eSIM.

Once you scan the code you will be guided through a couple simple steps and within less than 1 minute your eSIM is successfully installed. Very important is that you are connected to the internet when installing your eSIM otherwise you will get an error and issues can occur.

Tip: if you order an eSIM with the same phone where you want to instal the eSIM on then ask a friend or someone nearby to take a photo of the QR code and then you scan the QR code from his/her phone and start the installation. 

When to order/install an eSIM for the USA?

You can order an eSIM for USA pretty much any time you want. Most eSIMs have to be installed on a phone within 1-3 months after purchasing, so you have time.

More important therefore is when do you instal the eSIM. The validity of some eSIMs start straight after the installation, other eSIMs only start their validity when they connect the first time to a supported network.

Traveltomtom advices to instal your eSIM on the day departure to the USA at home. Or if you want to maximise your validity then activate your USA eSIM on arrival after you connect to the free WiFi of the airport on arrival in the USA. All international airports in the USA have free public WiFi.

Things to know before ordering an eSIM for USA

Here are some general tips for using eSIMs when traveling abroad. These tips do not only apply for USA eSIMs, but are things you have to know before buying an eSIM in general. 

Make sure your phone is unlocked

To make sure you didn't miss this, let me say this again: eSIMs only work in UNLOCKED phones. If your phone is unlocked then you can use any eSIM without any problems.

If your phone is locked then ask your mobile internet provider from your home country to unlock your phone before your trip to USA. It is likely that your mobile internet provider will charge you a fee for unlocking your smartphone. 

If you are unable to unlock your phone you can look into getting a pocket WiFi for staying connected when traveling to the USA or bring a second unlocked phone on your trip to the USA and use it as a portable WiFi device.

Which smartphones support eSIMs?

Another very important thing you have to check before buying an eSIM is if your smartphone supports eSIMs. If you have any of the latest mobile phones then there is no need to worry, all new smartphones support eSIMs. 

The fastest way to find out if your phone is eSIM compatible is by asking Google the question: is my (your phone model) eSIM compatible? Simple as that!

Can I trust these eSIM providers?

All the eSIM providers for USA recommended in this guide are reputable eSIM providers reviewed and tested by Traveltomtom. All of them are licensed third party companies and resellers that partner or work directly with the mobile internet providers in USA.

Traveltomtom has used  Airalo  and SimOptions sim cards now for more than 5 years and never really faced a major issue.

Check out the pros and cons of SimOptions in our article: Honest Review of SimOptions .

The Traveltomtom Team has extensively tested and reviewed  Nomad  and they have proven to be a reliable eSIM provider. However, some mixed reviews have come back from the Traveltomtom Team about connectivity and activation.

Jetpac is a fairly new eSIM provider, but Traveltomtom only received positive feedback and excellent reviews about the eSIMs and services of Jetpac.

Sim Local has more than 100 sim card shops and kiosks in international airports around the world and has been selling sim cards for tourists for more than 5 years. Read Traveltomtom's honest review about Sim Local eSIM provider .

Since Traveltomtom is not a fan of eSIMs with unlimited data and an FUP I hardly use Holafly, but when I did I was not happy. So now I let the Traveltomtom Team randomly test Holafly and just like myself, mixed reviews have come back. Some positive, some negative.

On top of that there is now also Roamless , an eSIM provider with no data expiration. Truly a game changer!

Traveltomtom does NOT sell USA eSIMs, Traveltomtom only compares and recommends you to use eSIMs for traveling to USA.

All eSIM providers have their own Helpdesk which you can contact may you encounter any problems or in case you want to claim a refund.

Can I keep my phone number from home with a USA eSIM?

Yes, you can and this is for many people a reason to order an eSIM to stay connected when traveling to the USA. An eSIM can be used next to your physical or eSIM from your home country at the same time. You do not need a dual-sim phone for using an eSIM.

So you can have multiple eSIMs installed on your phone? Yes, no problem at all! 

For example: you can turn off the mobile data from your sim card from home but still use it for texting and calling. The USA eSIM you can be used at the same time just for data to ensure you are not wasting money on high roaming costs.

If your USA eSIM also allows you to make phone calls and you want to make a local call in USA, you simply switch between the sim cards and make a local phone call with your USA eSIM.

Switching between sim cards is a matter of turning them on/off in the settings. 

Can I make phone calls with a USA eSIM?

Yes, finally you can! Lately  Airalo became the first eSIM provider to offer eSIMs for the USA that include calling minutes and texts. These data/calls/sms plans from Airalo allow you to call to any number in the USA and Puerto Rico. International calls are NOT included!

Also be aware that incoming calls are deducted from your minutes balance. Weird policy if you ask me, but for now this is how it works.

None of the other eSIM providers sell eSIMs for the USA including calls and sms. All the Jetpac, Holafly, Nomad, Sim Local and SimOptions eSIMS are data-only and do NOT support calling and texting.

This makes Airalo stand out and is also one of the main reasons why Airalo is rated as the best eSIM for traveling to the USA in 2024.

Other eSIMs that include calling and texting are the ones from Verizon, AT&T and T-Mobile. These are the eSIMs you buy directly from the mobile internet providers in the USA. They are available in stores in the USA.

Does a USA eSIM come with a phone number?

In general it is very simple. A data-only eSIM does not come with a phone number. The eSIMs that support calling and texting come with a phone number.

The Airalo data/calls/text eSIM plans all come with a phone number from the United States that starts with +1.

The Three HK eSIMs from SimOptions is an exception as it comes with a phone number and therefore this eSIM for the USA technically also  supports incoming phone calls and sms, but unfortunately not outgoing phone calls and sms.

All the data-only eSIMs from Jetpac, Holafly, Nomad and Sim Local do NOT come with a phone number. In the above USA eSIM comparison you can find all the specifications per eSIM.

Can I use 5G on a USA eSIM?

This depends if your eSIM plan supports 5G. 

All the Airalo and Jetpac eSIMs are 5G ready, this also counts for Holafly and Nomad. The SimOptions and Sim Local eSIMs for the USA only support 4G/LTE.

Are there eSIMs for the USA with unlimited data?

Traveltomtom is in general not a fan of data sim cards with unlimited data. Why? There is mostly a so-called FUP (Fair Use Policy), which sometimes is already 2 GB data per day. That means that after 2 GB usage your internet will be slowed down. Sometimes eSIMs have an FUP of 30, 50, 80 GB data per month. It depends on the eSIM specifications.

In general, unlimited data is pretty much never unlimited data at max speed. And trust me the reduced data speed will creep you out as it barely works!

So yes, there are eSIMs for the USA with unlimited data but always read the fine print for more details, terms & conditions.

Jetpac, SimOptions, Sim Local and Airalo do NOT offer eSIMs for the USA with unlimited data. No hidden fees, no Fair Use Policy. Clear terms & conditions!

Holafly is different and Holafly only offers eSIMs with unlimited data plans per day. However, Holafly but does NOT specify what is the exact so-called Fair Use Policy (FUP) and therefore it is not Traveltomtom's first recommendation.

On Holafly eSIMs I experienced a reduce in data speed after using more than 2 GB per day. When I contacted support they explained me that I had to wait for 24 hours until my data speed was restored to normal.

Those 24 hours were a nightmare as my data speed was barely enough to use WhatsApp. Social media apps were not even loading! 

Again, Traveltomtom does NOT recommend eSIMs for the USA with unlimited data. But if you think you will not use more than 2 GB per day, then this might be your favorite eSIM.

However, if the FUP is 2 GB per day then what is the point of having an eSIM with unlimited data!? Right?

For truly unlimited data on an USA eSIM it is best to buy your eSIM in person, in store in the USA. Go to a T-Mobile or AT&T retail store for these sim card deals or check out Traveltomtom's complete guide for buying a prepaid sim card for the USA in 2024 .

There are a lot of different specifications per eSIM. Another reason why I advice you to take a close at my comparison of the best eSIMs for traveling to USA in 2024.

Best way to stay connected when traveling to USA

eSIMs are the easiest and fastest way to get data on your phone when traveling to USA, but are they also the best way to stay connected when traveling to the USA?

There are 3 ways to stay connected when traveling to USA: 

Local prepaid sim cards

International prepaid sim cards.

Let's compare eSIMs, local prepaid sim cards and international prepaid sim cards for you to make understand what is your preferred way to stay connected. 

If you use a lot of data then local prepaid sim cards are probably the cheapest way to stay connected depending on the length of your trip. Local prepaid sim cards often offer bigger data plans than eSIMs. However, local prepaid sim cards can only be purchased on arrival in the USA.

If this sounds like something you want then prepare to find a sim card store on arrival because buying a sim card for the USA on an international airport is very overpriced or often not even possible. 

On Traveltomtom you can also find sim card guides for: Miami Airport , Newark Airport , New York JFK Airport , Los Angeles Airport .

More info about the best USA sim cards for tourists can be found in my complete guide for buying a sim card for USA in 2024.

The advantage of local prepaid sim cards is that you buy them directly from the mobile internet provider. You get the cheapest prices, unlimited local calls & sms included, the biggest data packages and the fastest data speed. Local prepaid sim cards in USA all offer 5G. 

If your smartphone is not eSIM compatible there are many international prepaid sim cards for traveling abroad that you can use in the USA and you can easily order them online.

A pre-activated physical sim card will be delivered to your home address before your trip. You put this physical sim card in your phone and as soon as the plane touches the ground and the sim card connects to a supported network you are online. Plug and play! 

Click here to order an international prepaid sim card for USA directly online .

The advantage of an international prepaid sim card is that it often includes calling and texting. eSIMs are mostly data-only sim cards. 

There are two different eSIMs:

• eSIMs that you buy on the internet through a third party
• eSIMs that you buy in the USA in a mobile internet provider store 

The big difference is that eSIMs provided by the mobile internet operators in the USA: Verizon, T-Mobile and AT&T can only be purchased at one of their phone stores around the USA.

However, on arrival in the United States you will need to find a T-Mobile, Verizon or AT&T phone store, wait in line, bring your passport for registration, buy a sim card, pay the registration fee and convert it into an eSIM. Precious holiday time will be lost, but on the other hand you get a great USA sim card deal for tourists with unlimited calling and texting included.

You can NOT buy an eSIM for the USA on arrival at an international airport in the United States.

The eSIMs that you buy in the United States include unlimited texting and sms in the USA and most eSIMs that you buy on the internet do NOT support calling and texting. Only Airalo offers USA eSIMs including calls and sms. All other eSIM providers only sell data-only eSIMs for the USA.

eSIMs vs. local prepaid sim cards

Buying an eSIM on the internet is the easiest way to stay connected when traveling to USA, no doubt! You arrange everything online within just a couple clicks. Right here, right now if you want and you are all set for your trip to the USA. You arrive prepared and there is no need to visit a sim card shop. As soon as the plane lands, you are online.

But what is cheaper? An eSIM or a local prepaid sim card? When we compare USA eSIM prices with local prepaid sim cards for USA Traveltomtom comes to the conclusion that in fact eSIMs for the USA are better value for money.

On USA eSIMs you get more data for the same price. However, if you want a sim card for traveling in the USA with unlimited data or you want a sim card that includes calling and texting in the USA then buying a local prepaid sim card in the USA is a better deal.

After a long flight you just want to go to your hotel and it is often a big task to go to a sim card store and get connected. Especially since in the USA there are no sim card stores at the international airports.

Therefore a lot of travelers simply get an eSIM for the USA. Faster, easier and less stress!

Another difference between a local prepaid sim card and an eSIM is that eSIMs are often through a third party, a so called MVNO (Mobile Virtual Network Operator). These MVNO's operate on the network of one of the main mobile internet operators and basically buy bandwidth.

This may sound a little bit too technical, but what it means is that eSIMs through an MVNO are the last ones in line when the line is busy. Especially during peak times, the performance of an eSIMs is less compared to a local prepaid sim card from a mobile internet operator.

Bottomline: the data speed of eSIMs can be less compared to a local prepaid sim card. 

I am sure some of the above tips for finding an eSIM for your trip to the USA were helpful. I hope that after reading through my comparison of the best eSIMs for America it was easier to make a decision and order your eSIM right away. 

If you still have any questions then please leave me a comment below or reach out to me on social media and I am more than happy to help you out.

Curious what the life of a full time nomadic traveler looks like? Go check out my 650K Instagram account or 1.4 Million TikTok account both called @traveltomtom. Follow along with daily updates from around the world about the good, the bad and the ugly about traveling.

Traveltomtom is on the road to 197, meaning I would like to travel to every country in the world . As of September 2024 I have visited more than 155 countries, still about 40 to go, but no rush. Personally, traveling is not supposed to be a race or a competition for me. Enjoy life should be the spirit!

Enjoy your trip to USA!

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Best Travel SIM cards with Unlimited data in 2024

Access to the international internet without paying roaming fees with an international data SIM card or with a Digital SIM card for travelers.

Leoneska Ruiz

January 1, 2024

In this article

Holafly saves you +30% compared to other roaming fees

Plans that may interest you

If you’re traveling abroad, getting an internet connection makes a huge difference . Modern travelers depend on fast and reliable data, whether it’s for booking a cab, looking up restaurants, or texting those back home. But how can you get internet without paying for expensive data roaming fees ? Well, it’s easy with a travel SIM card with unlimited data .

You will also read about international virtual SIM cards with which you will find an even better alternative as long as you have a compatible smartphone. We will talk about how they work, where to buy them, and the regional options for you. We will also compare them with other less efficient options like pocket WiFi or more expensive ones like international roaming.

Stay tuned to find out how to use international virtual SIM cards, which are already the top choice for many users and travelers all around the world.

Digital SIM card for international travel

In the ➤ Holafly online store you will find virtual SIM cards for more than 170 destinations . Buy online and receive it by email via QR code. You’re ready to connect!

What is an international travel SIM card?

A travel SIM card with unlimited data helps you connect and use internet services in several countries. These are categorized into specific areas, continents, or regions.

They work thanks to contract agreements with local operators in each country . You will connect to their networks as long as you are within their coverage area and have an international SIM card with good service.

An international travel SIM card does not work with a nonestablished provider.  If you connect with the incorrect provider, you must select the right network manually on your phone’s settings. Do not worry. Our recommendation is the international virtual SIM card that Holafly has for more than 170 destinations worldwide , which we will discuss in a later section.

International SIM Card and International Virtual SIM Card: Are they the same?

There is a clear difference between these two , which is the international virtual SIM card, also known as eSIM, with the technological evolution of the traditional international SIM card.  The main novelty is that eSIM cards do not require a physical installation in your phone, so you can have unlimited data anywhere in the world in a few minutes.

Virtual SIM cards are ideal for travelers because when you buy them, you will receive a QR code in your email to activate them! It’s that fast and easy! Definitely here to stay, eSIMs are very versatile and allow travelers and tourists around the world to purchase data services for any destination with immediate delivery . You can even find unlimited data alternatives, like in Holafly’s online store .

How do I know if my cellphone is compatible with a virtual SIM card?

This is important before buying your international virtual SIM card because not all cellphones are compatible with this technology. As they are a recent development, the industry is still in the process of moving to this type of chip. To help you check if your smartphone is eSIM compatible , you can take a look at Holafly’s updated list.

Of course, as with physical international SIM cards, your phone must be unlocked for international use. Some providers sell cellular devices with regional or carrier restrictions, so you should confirm if this is the case for your phone.

Virtual SIM vs. physical SIM cards

The first virtual SIM cards were indeed seen on the market a few years ago in very few cellphones. However, in the last couple of years, their implementation has expanded. Today they represent the next step in telecommunications due to their accessibility and speed of delivery anywhere in the world.

International virtual SIM cards are one step ahead of their physical analogs, and it is only a matter of time before they are standardized in all phones. On Holafly’s articles of interest find more information on eSIMs so you can learn more about them and compare them to the physical alternatives.

Where to get a travel SIM Card with unlimited data?

Once you have confirmed that your phone is compatible with the virtual SIM card and that it is indeed unlocked for international use, you are ready to buy one. If you want to find the solution to stay connected in more than 200 countries around the world in one store, you should visit Holafly’s website!

This store allows you to buy eSIM online and with instant delivery , no matter where you are. In addition, most of the packages they have for your destinations include virtual SIM cards with unlimited data, ideal for travelers abroad. Connecting is as easy as making the purchase and waiting for the mail with a QR code, scan it, and you will be ready to navigate to your destination without problems.

Multi-country virtual SIM cards

At the beginning of this article, we mentioned that there were regional solutions for travel SIM cards, and now it is time to explain more. Holafly offers multi-country virtual SIM cards with which you can have coverage in several countries at the same time. So if you plan a trip like this, you can make a single purchase and stay connected throughout the experience, avoiding installing a new eSIM every time you change countries. 

You will see below all the regional options available to you, including the countries where you will have coverage and their type of service.

eSIM for Latin America 

Latin America has a lot to offer for your travels. Home of the Amazon rainforest (“The lungs of the world”) and vibrant cities like Buenos Aires and Rio de Janeiro, you won’t have to worry about an internet connection with an international digital SIM.

You will be able to travel to several Latin American countries without having to look for local SIM cards or change your phone number. 

One of the main benefits of a virtual SIM card in South America is that it automatically connects to the best network providers each time you arrive in a new country.

Countries included

International sim card for north america .

Visit Niagara Falls in Canada, New York City, or end up on the beautiful Cancun beaches in Mexico. And do it all without worrying about your connection.

You can travel without limits with a digital SIM card for North America . It doesn’t matter whether you’re on the border or in the downtown area. This card will connect to the highest quality provider across the continent.

Countries included:

• United States

International virtual SIM card for traveling to Europe

If you’re from outside the EU and visiting several European countries, we suggest the international travel eSIM card for Europe with unlimited data.

Where can you use your Europe virtual SIM?

Destinations included:

• Åland Islands
• Balearic Islands
• Canary Islands
• French Guiana
• Saint Martin
• Saint Barthélemy
• Netherlands
• Vatican City

Digital SIM card for traveling to Asia

Being able to  connect in Asian countries will be a challenge. Remember that support might not be available in English. So  if you have a problem, it might be harder to solve it due to the language barrier.

The international virtual SIM card makes your life easier because you won’t need to do anything, as it  will connect you to the internet regardless of the place or language.

• Hong Kong and Macao

Local plans, such as  eSIM for Cambodia , are also available for all these destinations. With these plans, you will have coverage in only one country but also receive other benefits.

Prepaid virtual SIM card for traveling to Australia

Oceania is another continent you can visit with a good Internet connection. On this continent, you can explore with an eSIM New Zealand or Australia eSIM  without fear of running out of data in the middle of your trip. Avoid using costly roaming services or renting a pocket WiFi .

Digital SIM card for traveling to Africa

You can buy a digital SIM for Africa or individual country cards, like the  eSIM for Egypt .

Advantages of a virtual SIM card for traveling abroad

If you want even more reasons to buy an international virtual SIM card for your next trip, here are some of its advantages:

1. Internet without complications or contracts

For all tourists looking to get an internet connection abroad with easy access, international eSIM cards allow you to do so without signing contracts. Local SIM card providers will generally ask you for personal information as well as go through national registration processes.

2. Clear your mind and don’t think about how much you are spending.

The prepaid virtual SIM card allows you to make a single payment for your service and, in the case of Holafly, offers unlimited data for many services. No more high roaming bills or running out of data in the middle of your trip.

3. Multi-country eSIM

As we already mentioned, with Holafly’s travel virtual SIM cards, you have access to regional options that allow you to maintain coverage in several countries. If your trip to Europe or North America takes you to more than one destination, these eSIMs are your ideal solution.

4. Online recharge option

This is also known as top-up ; with this service, Holalfy will email you when your plan is about to run out. In this email, you will find a link to buy an extension of your plan and continue enjoying your virtual SIM card with peace of mind.

5. You keep your WhatsApp number

You don’t have to worry about your friends and family not being able to contact you. With Holalfy eSIMs, you can keep your local SIM card and your WhatsApp number at the same time.

Disadvantages of a SIM card for travel abroad

Despite having many advantages, international virtual SIM cards do not escape from having some disadvantages. You will find some differences regarding their physical analogs that you might need on your trip. 

Generally, it happens that when you buy a travel SIM card with unlimited data in an online store, it does not include a local number, so you will not be able to make analog calls or send SMS . What you will be able to do is use instant messaging apps with unlimited data, such as WhatsApp, Telegram, and Skype. 

With this in mind, virtual SIM cards are still the top recommendation for those tourists who want a fast, secure, and hassle-free way to stay connected while traveling.

Avoid roaming charges with international SIM cards

For many years, it has been common knowledge that roaming services are quite expensive regardless of your carrier. 

When no other alternatives were, roaming was the solution for many who wanted to be connected abroad. Today, if you buy an international SIM card, you can avoid paying this high cost and still have the same goal of maintaining an internet connection while traveling. To find out the availability of your operator to roam in any destination, keep in mind that they usually classify it by zones. 

The farther away the destination country is from your country of origin, the more expensive the service is . The European Union is a particular case of this situation, so many operators allow you to continue using your minutes, messages, and data within member countries. However, you should check with your provider because, in numerous instances, they may apply flat rates. 

Beyond this small exception, keep in mind that for all other destinations, the price to pay will always be considerable compared to the virtual SIM card alternative. Don’t stay behind the times with the old-fashioned and expensive roaming ; buy a travel SIM card with unlimited data for your next trip whenever you have the opportunity.

Roaming rates

Considering English-speaking operators such as Three , Verizon , Rogers, and AT&T , we can consider daily rates from $5 to $15 to have internet. It is also possible to find rates above this, but it is less common.

Something similar happens with calls or messages abroad , so if we also want to use these services are additional daily rates of $5 or more . As mentioned above, the cost is higher in more distant areas and can go up to $6 per minute per call when calling from these destinations. Note that this applies whether you make or receive calls.

Not surprisingly, the reputation of the expensive roaming service comes to the fore . For this reason, with a virtual SIM card that you can buy and receive immediately anywhere in the world, you will solve your internet connection abroad in the best way.

International SIM card vs Roaming 

Here is a quick comparison between virtual SIM cards, physical data SIM cards, and roaming services . From a general point of view, these three alternatives are intended to keep you connected abroad only with your phone and chip. You will be able to see which one best suits your needs.

As we can see, the three alternatives fulfill their objective of having internet abroad. But if we look closely, the virtual SIM card is the only option that allows you to get unlimited data at a good price and with excellent coverage.

Even so, each option has its usefulness, and in case you prefer one or the other, you will always be able to stay connected to the internet. For those of you who need to receive SMS or consume talk time abroad , your most useful option will be the roaming service of your local operator. 

On the other hand, if you are an average traveler who wants to keep an internet connection for a low cost and without many steps to achieve it, surely your ideal option will be the travel eSIM . Also, with unlimited data options like the ones offered by Holafly, you will always be able to navigate to order an Uber, look up an address on Google Maps, or do whatever you need.

International data SIM card vs. Pocket WiFi

Pocket WiFi is another option to connect to the internet during your travels.  It allows you to share data between multiple devices, and, most importantly: it’s unlimited!

But make sure to read the terms or conditions and the fine print regarding restrictions. Sometimes, there are restrictions even if providers claim to offer the longed-for unlimited internet feature.

Look closely at the daily limit they offer. It is usually around half a gigabyte or 1 GB. If you start watching a Netflix movie or series, you’ll be halfway through the movie and then left in the middle of the road without internet.

One limitation of Pocket WiFi is  the number of devices you can connect   to the internet . If you’re traveling in a group, it’s possible someone may be left without a connection.

Be aware of these limits when using Pocket WiFi. Firstly,  battery life will be extremely low   (you can rent a new battery for around $10). Also, remember to review the  conditions in case of loss or theft , The price of the penalty can be $150 with immediate effect.

Sometimes pocket WiFi sellers don’t mention the shipping fee, which could be between $8-10. You may also have to pay to return the device once your rental period is over.

Comparative table

Now that we know better how pocket WiFi works, let’s see a quick comparison with international SIM cards.

After looking at the table, we can conclude that it seems that pocket WiFi is becoming obsolete . In previous years, they were a viable option to connect to the Internet abroad. Today, smartphones have evolved by leaps and bounds and are replacing them.

With some of your international data SIM cards, you can also share data with other devices, and you don’t have to rent anything. Nor do you need to receive or return anything that is not yours. In short, you are worry-free.

Conclusions on Virtual SIM cards for international use

International virtual SIM cards are an excellent alternative for you to avoid paying roaming fees and have Internet on your travels.

Holafly has a valuable number of destinations to travel to at your disposal, and you can surf abroad.

FAQ about the international data SIM card

You can activate data roaming and use data provided by your domestic carrier. But be aware that this will be very expensive. If you intend to go for this option, you can expect a hefty phone bill when you get back home. Alternatively, you could buy Pocket Wi-Fi (a portable device that generates a WiFi connection for your phone). This option is also expensive and you’ll have to carry the device everywhere. A virtual SIM card is the cheapest and most convenient way of connecting to the internet.

Yes, you can enjoy unlimited data depending on the country you travel to. Holafly travel sim card with unlimited data in several countries. It’s as easy as searching for eSIM for the UK , eSIM in Japan , Mexican eSIM , Canadian eSIM , or any destination on their website and choosing the plan that best suits you.

Digital SIM cards work perfectly most of the time. But if you encounter any issues, just contact the customer support team.

It is not possible; SIM cards will have their number assigned individually.

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• Tokyo Cheapo (繁體中文)

The Best eSIMs for Visiting Japan — Tested and Compared

eSIMs are perfect for traveling. Worrying about SIM trays or losing tiny SIMs between the sofa cushions is finally a thing of the past! What’s more, the Japan eSIM market has exploded, with a wide range of offerings from both domestic and international players. To help you choose the best eSIM for your trip, we tried out all the eSIMs that we could get our hands on.

Best eSIM for light data usage -->

Japan eSIMs tested and compared

First, here’s a summary of what we found when we tested the eSIMs (updated August 2024): If you’re curious, here’s how we tested the Japan eSIMs .

What exactly is an eSIM?

It’s a virtual SIM that you can download and install onto your phone directly, so no more fiddly physical SIM cards. Most phones released since 2019 can use an eSIM, with Apple’s US iPhone 14 and 15 being eSIM only. eSIMs are convenient when you want to change your carrier, such as when abroad, as you can connect to a new provider in seconds without removing your existing physical SIM card.

Japan eSIMs for tourists and short-term visitors

Here’s a quick overview of some of the Japan eSIM options for your trip. This is not an exhaustive list; just an introduction to some of the main players in the market.

Best eSIMs for short trips

These are the providers with a big range of shorter plans:

eSIM Japan: Flexibility from short stays to unlimited data

eSIM Japan has among the most extensive plans for travelers to Japan. Their plans are broken into three basic types: Unlimited data 3–30 days, 5G Unlimited Max 3–15 days, and fixed-data 7–30 day plans. The unlimited data 3–30 day plans have 1GB per day and 2GB per day options, and you can select from nine different trip lengths. All of their plans score fairly highly in terms of affordability and speed.

Installation

When we ordered the 2GB/day Japan Unlimited Pro eSIM, a QR code arrived in our inbox immediately. From purchase to use, it took less than 15 minutes.

The plan begins when you scan the code and install the eSIM. Plans have a set time limit and a data limit (3GB, 5GB, 10GB, or unlimited), so you can choose a plan that works for the length of your trip.

Performance

eSIM Japan is provided by China Mobile Hong Kong but roams to Japan’s KDDI au network (you’ll need to enable roaming to use it). Despite roaming, it was fairly fast, with an average download speed of 38.27Mbps. Websites loaded in a flash, and video calling and streaming were smooth, with no lags.

Note: If you are in Hong Kong or Taiwan, you’ll need to use real-name registration. Otherwise, no signup is required.

World eSIM: Reliable speeds and connectivity

World eSIM is brought to you by Vision Inc. — the folks behind well-known travel Wi-Fi name Ninja Wifi . World eSIM provides three different types of packages – unlimited, fixed, and daily data plans. Unlimited plans range from 5–30 days, daily data plans are 3–15 days, and fixed data plans include 5, 10, and 20 GB options. Their eSIMs ranked reasonably high in our speed tests, and their plans are affordable per gigabyte.

Getting our eSIM was straightforward. After signing up on the World eSIM website, we paid and received a QR code instantly in our email. A quick scan, and we were ready to go.

Download speeds averaged 99.15Mbps, and streaming was smooth. During our test, we found that this was one of the best eSIMs for video calling. Overall, it’s a solid choice.

Best eSIMs for long trips

When you want a big range of options for 30-day eSIMs:

Saily: Excellent value for 20GB

Saily offers straightforward eSIM plans in 7- and 30-day options. The 7-day option offers 1GB of data, while the 30-day options range from 3 to 20GB. Price-wise, the 20GB Saily eSIM for Japan can’t really be beaten. Saily comes from the well-established tech company NordVPN , and uses UK network 1GLOBAL, with local roaming via NTT Docomo.

Our Saily eSIM was ready for download instantly, and activation was foolproof with their dedicated Android/iOS app, which walks you through the set-up process.

Speed-wise, Saily performed well with a strong 5G signal at most of our testing locations; video streaming and calls were flawless.

Ubigi: Fast speeds for long stays

Ubigi is a global eSIM provider currently offering eSIMs for over 200 destinations. A relatively new name in the Japanese eSIM market, they nonetheless have plans to cover most needs. From economical single-day 500MB plans for ¥ 390 to beefy month-long plans with unlimited data for US$ 74.00 , there’s something for all travelers.

Ordering from Ubigi is a snap. Once we paid, a QR code was emailed to us in seconds. One quick scan, and we were ready to go. Like most others on this list, Ubigi works with NTT Docomo for reliable coverage across Japan. The company behind Ubigi is Transatel, which is actually owned by NTT.

We tried the 3GB Ubigi eSIM. In our testing, we experienced average speeds of 73.72Mbps and web pages loaded in a flash. YouTube playback was smooth with no buffering, and our video calls were lag-free. Ubigi’s excellent quality and speed make it a strong contender at this price point.

Best eSIM for light data use

Gigsky japan esim: fast speeds and reliable connectivity, best esim with high data caps.

For lots of GBs without the cost of unlimited data:

Mobal eSIMs: Big data limits and voice + data plans

Mobal’s short-term data-only plans come in 8-, 16-, and 31-day durations, with data limits ranging from 3–100 GB. The short-term voice + data sims are also available for 30, 60, and 90 days, although data limits on these plans are capped at 7 GB per calendar month. If you’re after a more long-term voice + data option, plans are also available with monthly fees for 1, 5, 10, or 30 GB of data per month (see below). 

Activating the data SIMs takes about 15 minutes. After 5 minutes, we received an email with a link to their service website. This led us to a page where we waited for our eSIM QR code to be ready for another 10 minutes.

In terms of performance, Mobal is about the middle of the pack, at an average of 24.76Mbps. Websites loaded quickly, and video calling was fairly smooth. Overall, it’s a solid, reliable eSIM.

Mobal long-term voice + data eSIM for Japan

There is also a voice + data eSIM , which has an initial fee of ¥ 2,970 . When you activate your eSIM, you’ll need to choose a monthly plan, ranging from 1GB/month for ¥ 1,650 to 30GB/month for ¥ 4,378 . There is no minimum contract period or cancellation fees, making it a viable choice for travelers and residents alike. You get a real Japanese phone number with this eSIM. We tested out the 7GB plan.

Note: Due to regulations in Japan, the voice + data eSIM cannot be emailed to customers; your access code will need to be posted to your residence overseas or otherwise picked up in person in Japan. You must apply in advance, upload an ID document, and wait for a delivery. Once you get your package in the mail, you need to activate your Mobal eSIM on the Mobal website. You’ll enter a 32-digit EID, then wait for Mobal to activate your eSIM and provision your new Japanese phone number. Technical support is available via email and a web form, though most questions can usually be solved by having a peek at Mobal’s FAQs page.

Best eSIM for families and groups

For sharing data with your travel squad:

Flexiroam Japan eSIM: Great for groups

Flexiroam offers six fixed-data plans and six unlimited data plans across their Japan eSIM range. Fixed data plans include four 30-day eSIMS of various data limits and two shorter 7-and 15-day options. Flexiroam’s unlimited plans are staggered from 5 days up to 30 days. The Japan eSIMS roam to all of Japan’s major networks, and their fixed-data plans offer the option to distribute data to friends and family and roll your data over to additional plans. 

You’ll need to create an account to purchase and install your eSIM. While it’s not a requirement, we found it was easiest to buy through the Flexiroam app. Through the app or the website, you choose your trip destination, usage (fixed or unlimited data), and trip duration, and you’ll be presented with the available options. From there, select the plan you want and enter your payment details.

You’ll receive a QR code and instructions via email to set up your eSIM. You can install your eSIM using the QR code or through the app, but we found the QR code easier. Depending on your phone, you may need to update the APN settings for the eSIM to work. As per the website, the eSIM can take around 15 minutes to connect to a local network for the first time after installation. 

Flexiroam’s website says that it’s eSIMs automatically connect to the strongest signal from the available local operators. While its website doesn’t transparently list its partner networks in Japan, we were able to manually connect to two of Japan’s major network operators (Docomo, NTT, and Softbank) during our tests. In terms of speed, Flexiroam ranked around the middle of the pack during our tests.

Best eSIM for flexible plans

When you want heaps of options for days, data, and top-ups:

Sakura Mobile: Trusted local Japan provider

An established SIM and Wi-Fi provider popular with both short and long-term visitors to Japan, Sakura Mobile also has a line of eSIMs. A big selling point of Sakura’s Travel eSIMs is their flexibility. Short-term eSIMs are available from 1 all the way up to 90 days with a combination of unlimited and fixed-data options. If you’re after a semi-permanent option, Sakura offers long-term data-only and voice + data eSIMs at 5, 25, and 40 GB per month.

We tested the 3-day, 3GB data-only eSIM, which cost ¥ 2,750 . There was no option to install it directly through the Sakura Mobile website; the QR code and instructions were emailed to us. The user interface was clunky, but the eSIM was set up in under 15 minutes. We didn’t need to activate roaming to use it.

In terms of performance, Sakura Mobile’s download speeds averaged 84.46Mbps, although they varied significantly across test platforms. Video playback and calling were smooth, though, and we were satisfied with the overall performance.

Best eSIM for fast speeds

When you need those MBs quick:

Airalo: Lightning speeds from a trusted brand

Special offer: Order through our link and get 10% off . The discount is automatically applied at checkout.

If you’re in the market for speed, Airalo isn’t going to play games with you. Airalo eSIMs roam to both KDDI au and SoftBank, two of Japan’s major carriers, offering dependable data on the go. Their Moshi Moshi eSIM line of eSIMs has 7, 15, and 30-day packages. The 7-day package is the bare minimum, with only 1GB of data for US$ 4.50 . The 15-day plan offers 2GB; at the upper end, the 30-day plans come in 3, 5, 10, and 20GB increments. For those of you who burn through your data, that 20GB package will set you back US$ 26.00 .

Getting the Airalo eSIM took no time at all. We signed up for the 2GB/15-day Moshi Moshi eSIM, and after paying, we were immediately taken to a page with our eSIM QR code waiting. We were 100% good to go within 15 minutes. Note that sign-up is required for this eSIM.

When it came to our speed test, this eSIM left all of its competitors in the dust. Our testing had a lightning-fast average download speed of 141.61Mbps. Websites loaded almost instantly, and YouTube videos didn’t stop to buffer once. Even our awkward video calls didn’t make this eSIM break a sweat. If you’re the sort of person who works your data to the bone, Airalo is a good choice.

Jetpac: Good price and performance

Esims with unlimited data.

From the names mentioned above, eSIM Japan, Ubigi, Sakura, World eSIM and Flexiroam, all offer unlimited data plans.

eSIM companies are increasingly offering different types of unlimited plans for heavy data users such as business travelers and remote workers. For a breakdown of some of the unlimited providers out there, see our dedicated comparison of Japan eSIMs with unlimited and nearly unlimited data .

Japan eSIM FAQs

How much data do i need.

Average users in their home country will use around 5GB per week. When you’re at home, though, you’re probably connected to Wi-Fi for most of the day. When traveling, chances are you’re connected to Wi-Fi a lot less. You’re relying on data for things like maps and translation, browsing for things to do and places to go.

500MB – 1GB per day might be enough if you’re just using your data for things like maps and instant messaging while you’re out. But if you’re on your phone during a long Shinkansen trip, using data for work, tethering, or spending a lot of time on social media, you might want to consider the higher end of the spectrum.

If you’re worried about going over your daily data limits, consider downloading offline maps and saving most of your heavy data usage for when you’re on Wi-Fi. Also, consider setting a data warning on your phone. Alternatively, consider plans that offer data top-ups. 

Is my phone eSIM compatible?

This is important to check before handing over your money! While most phones made in the last few years or so will have eSIM functionality, not all phones will be unlocked. If you purchased your phone outright, chances are it’s unlocked. If, on the other hand, your phone came under a contract with a network provider, chances are your phone will be locked by that provider.

Checking whether your phone is unlocked is pretty quick and easy. If you discover that your phone is locked, check with your service provider to see if it’s possible to unlock it before buying an eSIM. Alternatively, if you’re traveling with family or a small group, consider renting a pocket Wi-Fi device to share.

What’s the best eSIM for skiing or snowboarding in Japan?

Two things to consider when on a ski trip in Japan are connectivity and the ability to make emergency calls . If you’re heading to Nagano, Hokkaido, or Niseko, then you’re going to want a service that has reliable connectivity in remote areas.

NTT Docomo is often regarded as the best provider in regional areas because of its overall network coverage — so an eSIM that connects to Docomo’s network would be a good choice when heading to the snow. Secondly. if you prefer not to rely on apps like Skype for emergency voice calls, look for a provider that offers a combined voice + data package, like Mobal . If you’re in an emrgency in Japan, the number to dial is 119.

What’s a Fair Usage Policy?

This is probably something you’ll see pop up quite a bit while researching eSIMs, and it’s worth noting, especially if you’re looking at unlimited data options. Many “unlimited data” plans are actually capped at around 2 to 5 GB per day, with speeds throttled after you hit the daily limit.

In slightly rarer cases, providers will offer “truly unlimited” plans with no apparent daily data limits. However, remember that these may ultimately be bound by Japan’s nationwide Fair Usage Policy (FUP). Japan’s FUP basically says that to provide equal internet access to all network users, everyone should use the internet reasonably. If a user is deemed to be using excessive data, networks may implement the FUP and throttle their internet speeds. This means that although you might have purchased a truly unlimited data plan, be careful of using much more than 2 or 3 GB per day, as there’s a chance that your speeds will slow to a grinding halt until at least the next day.

Which network offers the best coverage in Japan?

In general, NTT Docomo is said to have the most infrastructure nationally. Still, there isn’t a clear objective winner regarding overall quality between the three primary players, Docomo, AU, and Softbank.

A recent study awarded Docomo the best in general availability, but AU and Softbank both lead in 5G coverage. Similarly, although Docomo is said to have the largest network, it also has the biggest user base. This means that it may be slower in crowded areas but may perform stronger in more rural areas.

Which Japan eSIM is the fastest?

Airalo scored the highest in our speed tests by a solid margin at the time of writing, followed by Ubigi and World eSIM. Airalo runs on both Softbank and KDDI AU networks. Ubigi runs on NTT Docomo and World eSIM runs on Softbank. 

How easy is it to switch between eSIM plans during a trip?

If you have multiple eSIMs already installed, switching between different SIMs is quick and easy. If you’d prefer to keep things simple, some eSIM providers offer regional SIMs that cover multiple countries, such as Japan, Korea, and Taiwan on one SIM. 

Which is better for your Japan trip: An eSIM or a physical SIM card?

Even with more providers arriving on the scene, the options with physical SIMs are still superior to what you can get with eSIMs. For example, only one of the eSIMs listed here includes a Japanese phone number with calling ability (that’s Mobal ).

If you’d like something a little more inconvenient but with better options, check out our guide to prepaid SIM cards for travel to Japan . We also recommend taking a look at mobile Wi-Fi rental for Japan to compare connectivity options.

What’s the difference between international roaming eSIMs and local eSIMs?

Essentially, there are two types of eSIMs — eSIMs provided by foreign companies that roam to the local network, and eSIMs that are native to the country you’re in. Many companies that offer Japanese eSIMs are the former, essentially foreign eSIMs with agreements with local carriers like Docomo or KDDI that allow them to connect to their networks.

In terms of coverage, there aren’t any significant differences — foreign eSIMs will be roaming to the same networks that local providers use. There are some potential downsides to foreign eSIMs, though, including battery drainage caused by roaming, and slower speeds caused by latency. In most cases, these issues won’t be entirely noticeable, but may be things to consider when choosing your eSIM.

How we tested our eSIMs

We regularly test the providers listed above and report the average speeds over time based on all the tests. To perform the tests, we purchase an eSIM from each provider — the same as any customer would, and use the Ookla speed testing app. This app does a standard test to measure upload, download, and latency.

Speed results can vary based on several factors, so to get fair and realistic test results, we do the following:

• For each round of testing, we do tests from 3-5 different locations around the Tokyo greater area
• At each location, we perform the test twice for each provider and use the same model of smartphone
• We do a round of tests every 2-3 months, and so keep an average of the results from each provider over time
• We also do some random spot testing for general usage, e.g., doom scrolling social media, making short video calls to look for lag, etc.

If there are some anomalous results, we may retest the eSIMs on the following day, at a different location in Tokyo, to compare results. For example, on our very first round of testing, Mobal and Sakura Mobile experienced severe throttling on the initial test day. This was because we’d burnt through the daily allowance when figuring out how to do the tests! We could repeat the tests the next day when the allowance had reset.

Some eSIMs had to be run on the same device, meaning that not all tests were simultaneous. Our testing method isn’t perfect, but it does give us a good idea of the different eSIMs’ performance. We excluded some eSIMs from the article where we had concerns about the ordering process, performance, or pricing.

A word on speed tests: We strongly recommend not running speed tests with your eSIM, as they BURN through data. A single test could use 300MB or more!

While we do our best to ensure everything is correct, information is subject to change. Prices are approximate. This post was first published in October 2020 and was last updated by Chris Kirkland on August 2nd, 2024.

閱讀中文版本: 日本 eSIM 推薦大集合 – 實測比較一覽

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Virtual eSIM card for traveling the world

New. Advanced. eSIM from Drimsim.

This is an emerging technology, thereby some phones, tablets and routers do not support eSIM.

The virtual SIM card is stored in the phone memory. No more pin searching to open the phone slot. eSIM is always in the right place, at the right time - in your phone.

eSIM is not exposed to physical depreciation or electrical impulses impact, so it will not be damaged or lost.

eSIM program code is updated automatically. The latest versions of security updates or changes in mobile services occur regularly without delay.

Drimsim is more than a SIM card. We care about travelers.

Create your route, check reviews on restaurants, rent a car - everything is easy with Drimsim.

If connection failed, and you could not use Drimsim on the trip, we will refund the cost of the SIM card and your balance. We refund the cost of the SIM card even if you decided not to use Drimsim.

Handy app with detailed track of expenses on data. You can contact support, top up, monitor the expenses and arrange your trip right in the app.

Paid eSIM is delivered in 2 minutes. No courier delivery or point of sale searches. It takes only a few minutes to set up your phone or tablet. You can order eSIM from anywhere and at any time.

Share content, create routes and do not worry about spending in roaming. Drimsim app helps you to be in touch on trips.

We have no monthly fees. You only pay for the traffic you have spent. Our eSIM can be used in 190+ countries just like our plastic SIM card.

We measure the spent traffic in kilobytes.

Virtual eSIM card operates on the latest iPhones and Android devices only. It will be installed to phone after scanning QR code from our letter.

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Drimsim Limited ‍ Legal address: Room 1001, 10/F, Tower B, New Mandarin Plaza 14 Science Museum Road, Tsimshatsui Rast, Hong Kong Email: [email protected] ‍ Contacts of Data Protection Officer: ‍ Legal address: Room 1001, 10/F, Tower B, New Mandarin Plaza 14 Science Museum Road, Tsimshatsui Rast, Hong Kong Email:  [email protected]

Amendments to this Policy will be posted to https://drimsim.com/en/privacy-policy and will be effective when posted. If we’ll make any material changes to this Policy we will notify the data subjects by email (sent to the e-mail address specified in the account) or by means of a notice on the website prior to the change becoming effective. Any data subject can choose to discontinue use of our products and services if the data subject does not accept the terms of this Policy, or any modified version of this Policy. ‍ We do not knowingly collect any personal information from children under the age of 18. Our products and services are not offered to individuals under the age of 18. ‍ Refusal to provide the data may result in unavailability of provision of our products and services or poor user experience. Each data subject has the right to lodge a complaint to supervisory authority in case of personal data breach, misuse or any violation of applicable law related to personal data processing. ‍

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We take the following measures on protection of personal data to prevent the data breaches, misuse and the violation of rights of data subjects: - Providing this Policy for review to any person or entity which is about to process the personal data. - Keeping our officers and contractors responsible for proper data processing conducted by such officers and contractors. - Providing advice to any officer, data subject or partner on the subject of compliance with this Policy. - Making sure no access to personal data is provided to unauthorized parties. - Using only reliable and tested software for processing or personal data. - Assuming technical and organizational risks of data processing before such processing takes place. - Ensuring that all actions in respect of the data are exercised by protected accounts to access the data and all data storages are available only to a limited number or persons on a password basis. - Ensuring that we are able to suspend data processing or withdraw any piece of data from processing if we believe that such processing may violate applicable law. - In case of change in any business process we will determine whether such change is data-related and check if such change falls in line with this Policy. - Providing that each location and device where personal data may be stored is a safe environment. -Utilizing firewall to minimize the risk of unauthorized access to the hosting infrastructure. - Where necessary using third-party vendors to perform security assessments to identify issues with its data security that could result in security vulnerabilities. - Providing encryption of most sensitive personal data. - Ensuring ongoing confidentiality, integrity, availability and resilience of processing systems and services. - Providing the ability to restore the availability and access to personal data in a timely manner in the event of a physical or technical incident. - Processing regular testing, assessing and evaluating the effectiveness of technical and organizational measures for ensuring the security of the data processing. Effective: March 20, 2024

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What is a Virtual SIM Card?

Virtual SIM cards have recently gained popularity as more and more people rely on their smartphones for communication. A virtual SIM card is an electronic equivalent of a physical SIM card that is stored on a mobile device, allowing it to connect to a mobile network. In this article, we will explore what a virtual SIM card is, how it works, its compatibility, pros and cons, and how to use it.

Table of Contents

Advantages of a virtual sim card, how a virtual sim card works, app-based sim, differences between a physical sim card and a virtual sim card, physical sim card, virtual sim card, compatibility of virtual sim card, network compatibility, device compatibility, cost of virtual sim card, pros and cons of virtual sim card, how to use a virtual sim card, steps to follow, requirements, security of virtual sim card, future of virtual sim card.

A Virtual SIM card is a digital version of a traditional SIM card, which is stored on a mobile device instead of a physical card. It enables a user to connect to a mobile network without the need for a physical SIM card. This type of SIM card is also called an embedded SIM (eSIM), a soft SIM, or an app-based SIM. The digital version of the SIM card is used to authenticate the user with the mobile network and enable the user to access mobile services.

Virtual SIM cards offer numerous benefits over traditional physical SIM cards. They are convenient, flexible, and easily accessible. Some of the benefits of virtual SIM cards include:

• No need for physical cards: A virtual SIM card eliminates the need for physical cards, which are bulky and can easily get lost or damaged.
• Multiple profiles: With a virtual SIM card, it is possible to have multiple profiles on one device, which can be useful for individuals who travel often or have multiple phone numbers.
• More secure: Virtual SIM cards offer more security than traditional SIM cards since they are encrypted and stored on the device.
• Easily accessible: With a virtual SIM card, users can easily switch between networks without needing to physically swap SIM cards.
• Cost-effective: Virtual SIM cards are more cost-effective than traditional SIM cards since they eliminate the need for manufacturing and distribution of physical cards.

Virtual SIM cards work in different ways, depending on the type of SIM card used. There are three types of Virtual SIM cards, namely eSIM, soft SIM, and app-based SIM.

An eSIM is a virtual SIM card that is embedded in a device during manufacturing. The user can download a mobile network profile onto the device, which is used to activate the eSIM. Once activated, the user can connect to a mobile network without the need for a physical SIM card.

A soft SIM is a virtual SIM card that is stored on a device's memory. It can be downloaded onto the device by the user and activated using a mobile network profile. Soft SIMs can be used on devices that have a SIM card slot or devices that do not have a SIM card slot.

An app-based SIM is a virtual SIM card that is downloaded as an application onto a mobile device. The user can activate the SIM card using a mobile network profile and connect to a mobile network. App-based SIM cards are becoming increasingly popular due to their convenience and flexibility.

Virtual SIM cards have some notable differences compared to physical SIM cards.

A physical SIM card is a small plastic card that is inserted into a mobile device. The SIM card stores information such as the user's phone number, mobile network profile, and authentication key. Physical SIM cards are typically provided by mobile network operators and require physical distribution and activation.

A virtual SIM card is stored electronically on a mobile device and eliminates the need for a physical card. Virtual SIM cards can be activated remotely, and users can switch between different mobile networks without physically swapping SIM cards.

Virtual SIM cards have specific compatibility requirements that must be considered before use.

Virtual SIM cards are compatible with specific mobile networks, and users should ensure that their device is compatible with their chosen network. Not all networks support virtual SIM cards, so users should research their preferred mobile network before purchasing a virtual SIM card.

Virtual SIM cards are compatible with specific devices, and users should ensure that their device supports virtual SIM cards before purchasing one. Some mobile devices do not support virtual SIM cards, and users may need to purchase a compatible device to use a virtual SIM card.

Virtual SIM cards are typically more cost-effective than physical SIM cards since they eliminate the need for manufacturing and distribution. The cost of a virtual SIM card depends on the mobile network operator and the type of virtual SIM card used.

Virtual SIM cards have both advantages and disadvantages that users should consider before using them.

• No need for physical cards
• Multiple profiles
• More secure
• Easily accessible
• Cost-effective
• Network compatibility limitations
• Device compatibility limitations
• Limited availability
• Dependence on mobile network operator

Using a virtual SIM card is relatively straightforward, but users should follow specific steps to ensure a successful activation.

• Purchase a virtual SIM card from a mobile network operator that supports virtual SIM cards.
• Verify that the device is compatible with the virtual SIM card.
• Download and install the mobile network profile onto the device.
• Activate the virtual SIM card using the mobile network profile.
• Connect to the mobile network and start using the virtual SIM card.

To use a virtual SIM card, users need the following:

• A compatible mobile device
• A virtual SIM card
• A mobile network profile

Virtual SIM cards are more secure than physical SIM cards since they are encrypted and stored electronically. However, users should still take steps to protect their virtual SIM card, such as using a strong password and avoiding sharing personal information.

Virtual SIM cards are becoming increasingly popular due to their convenience and cost-effectiveness. As more mobile network operators support virtual SIM cards, they are likely to become even more widely used in the future.

Virtual SIM cards are a digital equivalent of physical SIM cards that offer numerous benefits over traditional SIM cards, including convenience, flexibility, and cost-effectiveness. While there are some limitations to using virtual SIM cards, they are becoming increasingly popular and are likely to become even more widely used in the future.

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Why we need activation dates?

• We need these dates to activate your SIM card so you can use them when you’re ready to travel.
• If you don’t give us an activation date, your SIM card will not work when you plug them into your phone.

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 SIM number so we can change it for you.

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