Best eSIMs for travelers

Having reliable mobile data when traveling is a must these days. Not only is it helpful to find things to do or the right bus route, but to communicate in an emergency and find your place to stay if you get lost.

While I think most travelers spend a lot of time on their phone, the truth of the matter is that modern travel requires mobile data.

In the past, that meant paying a lot of roaming fees to your phone provider or finding and buying portable SIM cards at the airport. I used to spend a lot of money on mobile data whenever I took a long trip. It absorbed.

Fortunately, today, there is a cheaper and more convenient solution: eSIMs.

I started using eSIMs recently and they have been a game changer.

So, in this post, I’ll explain what an eSIM really is and share my favorite eSIM companies so you can stay connected on your next trip — without breaking the bank.

What is an eSIM?

A SIM card is a small memory card that you insert into your smartphone to make calls and use mobile data. It has unique identifiers that ensure that when people call you, the call comes to your device (not someone else’s). You usually get one from your phone provider when you sign your contract.

An eSIM is the digital version of this.

Instead of a physically memory card, instead install software on your smartphone that replicates the same functions as a physical card. Most smartphones only have one physical SIM card slot, so the advantage of using eSIMs is that you can have multiple eSIMs on one device.

For example, if you are from Germany and visiting the United States, you will need to remove your German SIM card upon arrival and insert a US SIM card if you want to avoid paying excessive roaming fees. But once you switch SIM cards, you won’t be able to receive calls or texts from your German phone number unless you physically remove the US SIM card and put the German SIM card back in your phone.

This is a tedious process if you need to access multiple numbers during your trip. Hence the convenience of eSIMs. They make it very easy to visit more countries each year without having to throw away SIM cards. And since they allow you to be set up before you arrive, you can get mobile data the minute you touch the ground.

Why use an eSIM?

Comfort – Not only can you set up your eSIM from home, but you can do it before you leave so it’s ready when you arrive. (If you forget to do so, you can buy an eSIM and be connected in seconds.) Also, you can also extend your plans or upgrade them later, which is much easier (and faster) than extending the plan with a physical SIM card.

Price – eSIMs are very cheap now, plans start at only $4–5 USD. That’s a fraction of what you’ll pay for a roaming plan!

Additional benefits – Some companies (such as Jetpac) offer additional benefits beyond the eSIM data package. This can include things like lounge access on delayed flights and free VPN trials.

Customer service – If you buy a SIM card when you arrive at the airport, you can’t really go back to that airport if you have a problem as you will have already moved on. With an eSIM, you’ll have 24/7 access to online support for questions and troubleshooting.

Multiple Uses – Although some eSIMs will expire, it is possible to find eSIMs that you can reuse over and over again, saving you time and energy.

Best eSIMs for travelers

The Jetpac
Jetpac is a travel eSIM company founded in Singapore. They offer mobile data accessible in more than 150 locations around the world. I like that they offer regional bundles so you can visit more than one country with the same eSIM and still have reliable coverage.

What I really like, though, is that it’s a one-time installation. Most other eSIMs require a new installation for each new eSIM you purchase. Not so with Jetpac, making this a great choice for travelers looking for a hassle-free eSIM (especially less tech-savvy travelers).

Jetpac doesn’t just offer eSIMs. They actually have pretty solid travel features, which, in my mind, is what makes them the best eSIM for travelers. This includes free access to the airport lounge if your flight is delayed, and a free ExpressVPN tracker (which can keep your mobile data safe and secure while you’re abroad).

Jetpac at a glance:

• Affordable prices start at just $1 USD
• Free lounge access due to flight delays
• ExpressVPN free trial
• Special discounts at airport lounges and fast tracks, offering more than 40% off.
• Data packs are valid for one year from purchase
• Easy, one-time installation
• Hot skills

Holofly
Holafly has many, many plans with unlimited data, all connected to reliable networks so you can stay connected wherever you go. They offer plans in 160 locations, and the ability to access unlimited data is a huge plus in my book. As such, they are ideal for heavy data users. Also, you can get your friends up to 1 GB of data per day.

Holafly at a glance:

• Plans from 5-90 days
• Unlimited data starts at $19 USD
• Easy installation process
• 24/7 customer support
• 1 GB of data sharing (hot spot) per day

Airalo
Airalo is one of the largest eSIM providers in the world, with plans covering over 200 countries/regions. They make it very easy to set up your eSIM, with a slick website and reliable customer service. In addition to country-specific eSIMs, they also have regional data packs and global packs covering over 135 countries (ideal for long-term nomads).

Airolo at a glance:

• Country, region, and global data packs
• 200+ countries/regions covered
• Plans start at just $4.50 USD
• It’s easy to set up
• 24/7 customer support

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about eSIMs:

Do eSIMs support phone calls and SMS messages or just data?
Some eSIMs do, although most eSIMs currently only provide data. If you need to be able to make local or international calls with a data-only eSIM, there are many ways to do this (such as WiFi calling, Google Voice, or Skype).

How do I activate the eSIM?
You can activate the eSIM by scanning the QR code provided by your carrier or by entering the activation information in your phone’s settings. All eSIM providers will have detailed instructions on how to activate their eSIM, and all good carriers should have 24/7 customer support to help you if needed.

Which devices support eSIM?
Most new smartphones (after 2018) support eSIMs. Most providers have a list of phone models that support eSIMs, so be sure to check before buying (especially if you have an older phone).

Can I use both an eSIM and a mobile SIM on my device?
Most devices (though not all) offer dual SIM functionality, allowing you to use both an eSIM and a mobile SIM at the same time. Be sure to check international roaming charges with your home provider before keeping your mobile SIM active abroad. If you want to make sure it doesn’t automatically connect when you’re abroad (usually with high roaming charges), make sure you turn off roaming on your mobile SIM.

Can I switch between eSIM profiles?
Yes, you can save multiple eSIM profiles on your device and switch between them. Some new phone models allow two eSIMs to be active at the same time, while others only allow one to be active at a time.

How secure is eSIM?
eSIMs are considered more secure than physical SIM cards because they are embedded in the device and difficult to tamper with.

Can I transfer the eSIM to a new device?
Some carriers allow you to transfer an eSIM to a new device, but you may need to request a new activation code from your carrier. Some carriers also only allow you to transfer eSIMs once, so be sure to check before doing so if you need them.

From booking services to using Google Maps to driving an Uber, having mobile data makes traveling easier (and safer). Fortunately, it has never been easier to access mobile data. eSIMs are affordable, easy to use, and can have great extras (like Jetpac’s Jetpass).

I use an eSIM whenever I travel and encourage you to do the same. They are the best way to stay connected and make the most of your travels – wherever you go!