eSIMs are digital SIM cards that allow you to activate a cellular plan without a physical SIM card. This makes them ideal for international travel, as you can easily switch between different carrier plans without having to physically swap out SIM cards.
In this article, we’ll take a look at the top 6 best eSIMs for international travel lovers. We’ll consider factors such as coverage, price, data plans, and more.
So, whether you’re planning a short weekend getaway or a long-term backpacking trip, make sure to check out our list of the best eSIMs for international travel.
What is an eSIM?
eSIM stands for embedded SIM. It is a digital SIM card that is embedded directly into a device. Instead of an integrated circuit located on a removable SIM card, typically made of PVC, an eSIM consists of software installed onto an eUICC chip permanently attached to a device.
Why we recommend to use eSIM For International Travelling?
✅ Advantages of Using an eSIM for International Travel:
- Convenience: No more struggling with small SIM cards or searching for tools to open SIM trays. eSIMs allow you to switch carriers or plans directly from your device.
- Flexibility: When traveling abroad, you can easily subscribe to a local data plan without the need to replace your home SIM card. This eliminates the need to deal with expensive roaming charges.
- Dual SIM Capability: Many modern smartphones support both an eSIM and a physical SIM card, enabling you to have two active phone numbers or data plans on a single device.
❌ Limitations of Using an eSIM:
- Limited Support: Not all mobile carriers have adopted eSIM technology yet, which means your choices may be restricted depending on your location.
- Device Compatibility: While an increasing number of devices are becoming eSIM-compatible, not all of them support this technology. Therefore, it’s important to check if your device is eSIM-ready before considering the switch.
Top 6 best eSIMs for international travel
Airalo eSIM
Airalo is gaining recognition in the eSIM industry for its cost-effective and adaptable offerings. With options for local, regional, and global plans spanning over 190 countries, Airalo caters to travelers whether they’re embarking on a brief vacation or an extended journey.
They provide the flexibility to select between short-term and long-term plans, allowing you to tailor your eSIM plan to your specific travel requirements. Airalo simplifies the process of using their services through a user-friendly app and website, where you can purchase and manage your eSIM plans.
Airalo key Features:
- Coverage: Encompassing 190 countries across South and North America, Europe, Asia, Africa, and Oceania.
- Personal hotspot and tethering capabilities: Supported, subject to compatibility with your device and the network. Configuring the APN settings for your eSIM may be necessary to activate this feature.
Airalo Available Countries:
Read Full Review: Airalo eSIM
Nomad eSIM
If you’re looking for a wide range of choices, Nomad is the eSIM provider that could suit your needs. They offer a variety of plans for individual countries, as well as global options, and in certain destinations, they even provide unlimited data plans.
Nomad’s coverage extends to more than 110 countries, ensuring you have ample alternatives for your travels. Their plans are designed with flexibility in mind, allowing you to activate or suspend them at your convenience, which is ideal for the unpredictable nature of travel. Additionally, their user-friendly app and website simplify the process of managing your eSIM plans.
Nomad eSIM Key Features:
- Coverage: Encompassing 110 countries, including the United States, Europe, Asia, Africa, and Oceania.
- Personal hotspotting and tethering capabilities: Available in some of their eSIM plans, though not all of them.
Read Full Review of Nomad eSIM
Holafly eSIM
Holafly is your go-to choice, especially if you’re headed to the United States, as they offer unlimited data plans for this destination. However, even if your travels don’t take you to the U.S., Holafly has you covered with plans available for Europe, Asia, Africa, and Oceania.
Holafly stands out in the eSIM market with its competitive pricing and solid coverage. Their commitment to customer service is noteworthy, providing around-the-clock support and the option for free delivery of physical SIM cards if you prefer the traditional approach.
Holafly eSIM Key Features:
- Coverage: Extending to over 130 destinations, including the availability of unlimited data plans in select countries.
- Personal hotspotting and tethering capabilities: Offered in certain eSIM plans, though not all of them.
Also Read: Airalo vs Holafly eSIM Review: Which one is best?
AT&T eSIM
AT&T is a renowned mobile carrier offering a wide range of SIM card options to cater to diverse user needs. With extensive coverage across the United States and various international destinations, AT&T ensures you stay connected wherever your travels take you.
Their SIM cards come in various plans, including prepaid and postpaid options, with flexible data, talk, and text packages.
AT&T eSIM Key Features:
- Coverage: Comprehensive coverage throughout the United States and global roaming options for international travel.
- Plan Variety: AT&T offers a diverse selection of plans, including prepaid and postpaid options, to accommodate individual preferences and budget constraints.
- Data Flexibility: Whether you require minimal data for occasional use or extensive data for streaming and browsing, AT&T has plans that can be tailored to your specific data requirements.
- Talk and Text: AT&T SIM cards typically include packages for talk and text, allowing you to stay connected with family, friends, and colleagues.
- Network Quality: AT&T is known for its reliable network infrastructure, providing fast and consistent mobile connectivity in urban and remote areas.
- Additional Services: AT&T often offers extra services such as international roaming packages and discounts for bundled services like home internet, television, and wireless plans.
Read Full Review of AT&T eSIM Card
Lyca eSIM
Introducing Lyca eSIM, a versatile eSIM provider catering to your connectivity needs across a wide range of destinations.
With coverage in multiple countries, Lyca eSIM offers diverse options, including international phone numbers, unlimited data packages, and flexible monthly subscriptions, making it a comprehensive solution for your international travels.
Lyca eSIM ensures that you stay connected wherever you go, with plans that are tailored to your specific needs.
Whether you’re planning a short getaway or an extended journey, their user-friendly app simplifies the process of purchasing and managing your eSIM plans, leaving you free to enjoy your travels.
Lyca eSIM Key Features:
- Coverage: Across multiple countries to suit your global travel needs.
- Personal hotspotting and tethering capabilities: Supported, subject to compatibility with your device and the network. Configuring the APN settings for your eSIM may be necessary to activate this feature.
Read the Full Lyca eSIM Review
BNESIM eSIM
Now, let’s introduce BNESIM, an eSIM provider renowned for its extensive coverage across more than 170 countries.
BNESIM offers a wide array of features, including international phone numbers, unlimited data packages, and convenient monthly subscriptions, making it a holistic solution for international travel.
Although they offer comprehensive services, it’s important to note that BNESIM does not provide the option for personal hotspotting and tethering.
Their user-friendly app streamlines the process of purchasing and managing your eSIM plans, allowing you to fully enjoy your travels.
BNE eSIM Key Features:
- Coverage: Extending to over 170 countries worldwide.
- Personal hotspotting and tethering capabilities: Not available with their plans.
How to setup BNESIM eSIM on iPhone?
How to Activate BNESIM eSIM on Android?
FAQs
Where can I find my eSIM activation code?
The eSIM activation code is usually within the QR code or sent separately by your carrier.
Does I need to pay additional charges for Prepaid eSIM?
Prepaid eSIMs typically have set limits, so you shouldn’t incur additional charges unless you exceed these limits or add extra services. Always review your plan details.
Do eSIMs come with a number to make or receive phone calls?
eSIMs can come with a phone number for calls, depending on the plan you choose.
Is all devices are compatible with an eSIM?
Not all devices support eSIM, so check your device’s specifications or contact the manufacturer for compatibility information.
