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The Best eSIMs for International Travel in 2025

Added: 20.11.2024, Updated: 20.11.2024,
travel eSIM eSIM eSIM Technology

eSIMs have become increasingly popular in recent years, especially for international travelers. Let’s face it—nobody enjoys waiting in long lines at the airport to buy a local SIM card after landing at their dream destination. With eSIM technology, you can skip the hassle and get connected instantly, with plans ranging from a few days to an entire year.

Installing an eSIM is quick and straightforward, and they offer excellent network coverage worldwide. But with so many providers to choose from, how do you know which one is right for you? We’ve done the research to bring you the top eSIM options for international travel, no matter where you're headed—Europe, the Americas, Asia, Africa, or Australia. Read on to find all the information you need to choose the perfect eSIM for your next trip!

1. XOXO eSIM

Best Overall eSIM for International Travel

XOXO eSIM stands out as a leading eSIM provider, offering exceptional global coverage and user-friendly plans tailored for travelers. Known for its high-speed and reliable connectivity, XOXO eSIM has made a name for itself as the go-to option for seamless internet access across over 190 countries.

Why Choose XOXO eSIM?

  • Comprehensive Coverage: Enjoy stable internet in key travel destinations worldwide.
  • Flexible Plans: Options for short-term trips and extended stays at competitive prices.
  • Easy Activation: Activate your eSIM with a simple QR code scan.
  • Reliable Customer Support: 24/7 assistance ensures a stress-free experience.

Whether you're a business traveler, digital nomad, or vacationer, XOXO eSIM guarantees an uninterrupted connection wherever you go.

Contact details:

The Best eSIMs for International Travel

2. AloSIM

AloSIM, a tech company based in Canada, offers reliable prepaid data eSIMs at affordable prices. One of its standout features is the Data Calculator tool, which estimates how much data you’ll need based on your internet usage habits—whether daily, weekly, or monthly. This transparency helps users avoid overspending on unnecessary data and ensures they pick a plan that fits their needs.

Another benefit of AloSIM is that it shows which local networks you’ll be connected to before you purchase a plan. This allows you to verify the reliability of the network and even check available speeds (3G, 4G, or 5G) in your destination area.

Setting up an eSIM with AloSIM is straightforward, with three installation options:

  1. Automatic Installation: Quickly activate and start using your plan.
  2. QR Code Activation: Scan a code to enable your eSIM, a method commonly offered by many providers.
  3. Manual Installation: Follow a step-by-step guide to adjust your settings for activation.

AloSIM supports data sharing, allowing you to use your personal hotspot to connect other devices or share internet with friends. While it offers 12 regional plans, it doesn’t include one for Africa, which might limit its appeal to travelers heading there.

For those who need a phone number for calls and texts, AloSIM has partnered with its sister app, Hushed, to provide international numbers. However, this feature isn’t included in all plans, so it’s essential to check availability before purchasing. Additionally, AloSIM does not offer unlimited data, making it less ideal for heavy internet users.

Despite these limitations, AloSIM excels with its transparency, user-friendly installation process, and reasonable pricing, making it a great choice for travelers looking for a straightforward and reliable eSIM solution.

Contact details:

The Best eSIMs for International Travel

3. Airhub

Airhub is a leading name in the eSIM market, offering coverage in over 190 countries worldwide. Their plans include data, local call minutes, SMS, and even international call minutes, making them a versatile option for travelers.

One of Airhub’s standout features is the sheer variety of plans. While many providers offer only 3-5 options per country, Airhub provides up to 15 plans, giving you the flexibility to pick one that best suits your needs. They’ve partnered with local telecom companies to offer competitive rates, ensuring you get the best value. For those staying in one country for an extended period, Airhub also offers monthly subscription plans, some of which include unlimited voice calls and SMS.

Most of their plans are prepaid, but they also provide postpaid options and monthly subscriptions in certain regions, such as the United States. Regional plans are available across APAC, Africa, North America, Europe, and the Middle East, making it easy to find the right coverage for multi-destination trips.

The Airhub app is designed with simplicity in mind. Its clean and intuitive interface makes selecting and activating your eSIM a breeze. Users can choose between local eSIMs, regional eSIMs, and monthly plans via clear tabs, ensuring a seamless experience.

In conclusion, Airhub excels with its comprehensive plan options, user-friendly app, and affordable rates. It’s an excellent choice for both frequent travelers and remote workers looking for reliable and cost-effective eSIM solutions.

Contact details:

The Best eSIMs for International Travel

4. Ubigi

Launched in 2017 by Transatel-NTT, Ubigi is a leading provider in the eSIM market, offering connectivity in over 200 countries. With a focus on global coverage, Ubigi caters to diverse travel needs by providing a wide range of data plans tailored to specific destinations. Each country typically has over five plans to choose from, as well as regional and global options, all at competitive prices with no hidden fees.

For global travelers, Ubigi’s plans are particularly appealing. For instance, you can get 5GB of data per month for just $30, with flexible subscription options available. The service also supports 5G in more than 40 destinations, ensuring fast and reliable internet where it's available.

Activating an Ubigi eSIM is quick and user-friendly. Simply download their app, select your desired plan, and you’ll receive a QR code via email for instant activation. The app is available in eight languages, and their Help Center provides straightforward guidance for installation. However, customer support is somewhat limited, as assistance is only available through a contact form.

Ubigi also allows unrestricted mobile hotspot usage, enabling you to share your data connection across multiple devices, making it ideal for families or groups traveling together.

One key limitation is that Ubigi does not provide phone numbers, so you cannot make or receive traditional calls or SMS. However, voice and video calls can still be made over the internet using apps like WhatsApp or Instagram.

Overall, Ubigi is a fantastic option for those seeking extensive coverage, flexible data plans, and reliable connectivity while traveling.

Contact details:

The Best eSIMs for International Travel

5. Airalo

Airalo is one of the most popular eSIM providers, offering services in over 200 countries. Its strong partnerships with local telecom companies worldwide allow Airalo to provide competitive pricing, making it an excellent choice for travelers looking for an affordable and reliable data solution.

The cost of an Airalo eSIM varies depending on the country you’re visiting, as well as the amount of data and the plan’s validity. Airalo stands out with its 8 regional plans, including options for areas like Latin America and the Caribbean—regions often underserved by other eSIM providers.

Airalo’s global plan is also noteworthy, granting access to 136 countries. Travelers can select data packages ranging from 1GB to 20GB, with options lasting from 7 days up to 365 days.

Purchasing and activating an Airalo eSIM is simple. Just download the app, create an account, select your destination and preferred package, and install the eSIM. Activation is straightforward, and payments can be made with a credit card or Apple Pay.

One limitation of Airalo is that most of its plans are data-only and do not include voice minutes. If you rely heavily on phone calls, this might not be the best option for you. However, you can still make voice and video calls via internet-based apps like WhatsApp.

A great bonus feature is Airalo’s loyalty program. Each time you purchase data, you earn Airalo credit—starting at 5% for every purchase, with the percentage increasing over time. For example, spending $20 on a package earns you $1 in credit for future use.

Contact Details for Airalo:

The Best eSIMs for International Travel

6. Saily

Saily is a recent addition to the eSIM market, introduced in 2024 by Nord Security, the creators of NordVPN. This newcomer has quickly gained traction among budget-conscious travelers and businesses for its affordable and straightforward service. Saily’s pricing is highly competitive, with plans starting as low as $1.75 for 10GB of data, making it an appealing option for anyone looking for a cost-effective way to stay connected.

Designed with businesses in mind, Saily also offers tailored solutions to keep employees connected while traveling for work. The app features automatic, one-tap eSIM installation, simplifying the process and making it quick and hassle-free.

Saily’s network spans over 180 countries, including popular destinations like the United States, Thailand, Japan, Malaysia, and India. They collaborate with local providers to ensure dependable connections and fast data speeds. However, their coverage is slightly less comprehensive compared to some competitors, such as Airalo.

Where Saily truly excels is in its ease of use. The app features a clean, intuitive design, making it simple for even first-time users to purchase and activate their eSIMs. On-screen instructions guide users through every step, from selecting a plan to monitoring data usage.

Although Saily doesn’t offer unlimited data plans or phone numbers, it provides a streamlined experience with excellent customer support. Their 24/7 live chat ensures that help is always available when needed.

For travelers and businesses looking for an affordable, reliable, and user-friendly eSIM solution, Saily is a strong contender in the market.

Contact Details for Saily:

The Best eSIMs for International Travel

7. Holafly

Holafly is one of the few eSIM providers offering unlimited data plans, allowing you to stay connected without worrying about running out of data. In countries where unlimited plans aren’t available, Holafly still provides higher data limits than most other providers, making it an excellent option for data-heavy travelers.

Holafly caters to over 160 countries with flexible plan durations ranging from 5 to 90 days. For example, a 5-day unlimited data plan for the USA costs $19. While the pricing is on the higher side compared to competitors like Airalo, the convenience of unlimited data often outweighs the cost, especially for solo travelers who can't rely on hotspot sharing.

Setting up a Holafly eSIM is simple. After purchasing a plan, you’ll receive a QR code to scan, and the app will guide you through the installation process. Payments can be made using credit or debit cards, PayPal, Google Pay, or Apple Pay. If needed, you can manually install the eSIM using a provided code.

Holafly also excels in customer support. Their team responds quickly—typically within a minute—and offers assistance in English, German, French, Italian, Japanese, and Spanish. Support is available 24/7 via chat or WhatsApp. Additionally, their comprehensive FAQ section can answer most common questions about eSIM installation.

However, Holafly has some limitations. Data sharing is not supported, so you can’t use your plan to create a hotspot for other devices. Additionally, not all plans include call or SMS functionality. Calls are limited to 60 minutes in certain European countries, but this is rarely a drawback as most communication happens over internet-based apps like WhatsApp or Skype.

Overall, Holafly is a great choice for travelers who prioritize unlimited data and easy installation.

Contact Details for Holafly:

The Best eSIMs for International Travel

8. Jetpac

Jetpac, a Singapore-based eSIM provider founded in 2022, offers reliable and flexible connectivity for travelers across more than 100 countries. Whether you're embarking on a short 4-day trip or a month-long journey, Jetpac’s plans ensure you remain connected with data options ranging from 1GB to 40GB or more.

Jetpac partners with local networks worldwide to deliver high-speed internet, including 4G/LTE and 5G where available. This guarantees smooth browsing, streaming, and communication, no matter your destination.

One standout feature is Jetpac's SmartDelay service, which provides complimentary access to airport lounges if your flight is delayed or canceled. This perk extends to up to five travelers, making it a valuable benefit for families or groups, offering a comfortable waiting experience with refreshments and Wi-Fi.

Jetpac also allows hotspot sharing, enabling you to connect other devices like laptops or tablets to your eSIM. This feature is particularly useful for business travelers who need to stay productive or for families looking to share a single data plan.

Setting up a Jetpac eSIM is straightforward. The app guides you through an easy installation process, and the website provides comprehensive resources and guides. Jetpac also stands out for its excellent customer support, available 24/7 via email and live chat, ensuring quick assistance whenever needed.

While Jetpac does not offer unlimited data or phone numbers, its features and flexibility make it an excellent choice for frequent travelers. The eSIM must be downloaded and installed before your trip, but the data plan activates only upon arrival in a supported country.

Contact Details for Jetpac:

The Best eSIMs for International Travel

What is an eSIM?

An eSIM, or embedded SIM, is a digital version of a traditional SIM card built directly into your mobile device. This tiny, rewritable chip is embedded in your phone and connects to cellular networks via an antenna, eliminating the need for a physical SIM card.

Since eSIMs are programmable, you can effortlessly switch carriers through your device's settings without requiring a new SIM card. The chip seamlessly connects to the network you choose, simplifying the process of changing operators.

Although eSIM technology has been available for years, it gained widespread recognition when Apple removed the physical SIM slot from its devices, opting for an eSIM-only approach. The simplicity and convenience of eSIMs have made them a popular choice.

Other factors contributing to their rising popularity include their eco-friendly nature, lower energy usage, and the flexibility to change networks quickly, even in remote locations.

While there’s little functional difference between eSIMs and physical SIM cards, the former can feel limiting when switching phones. However, the advantages of eSIMs—like convenience and adaptability—generally outweigh the drawbacks of physical SIM cards in most cases.

Why Should I Get an eSIM for International Travel in 2025?

Now that we understand what an eSIM is, let’s explore why it’s particularly useful for traveling abroad. One of the biggest benefits is the ability to store multiple eSIM profiles on your phone—sometimes up to eight or more—and activate them as needed, all without incurring extra roaming charges.

If your current carrier offers free roaming, there’s no need to consider a separate travel SIM. However, if they don’t, finding a reliable local provider can be challenging, especially with potential language barriers.

eSIMs also provide enhanced security compared to physical SIM cards. Since they can’t be removed, they’re impossible to lose. Additionally, if your phone is lost or stolen, it’s easier to track as the eSIM remains intact within the device.

It’s worth noting that both physical SIMs and eSIMs function similarly when it comes to international roaming. However, eSIMs offer greater flexibility, as you can store multiple profiles and easily switch carriers in different regions. Physical SIMs, on the other hand, are typically limited to two at a time.

For these reasons, eSIMs are an excellent choice for international travelers, offering convenience, flexibility, and peace of mind while staying connected on the go.

How Does an eSIM Work?

An eSIM, or embedded SIM card, is a tiny chip built into your phone that allows you to connect to a mobile network without the need for a physical SIM card. Instead of inserting a traditional SIM, you can download an eSIM profile directly onto your device and activate it, often by scanning a QR code or using an app.

eSIMs operate much like physical SIM cards, but they remove the need for physical swaps. The eSIM is managed entirely through your phone's software, making it simple to switch between operators or add multiple data plans without any hassle. For instance, if one network loses coverage, you can easily activate another eSIM profile to stay connected.

The flexibility of eSIMs allows users to maintain multiple profiles, such as one for business and another for personal use, all within the same device. Additionally, since there is no need for a physical slot, eSIMs free up space inside devices, which manufacturers can use for other features like bigger batteries or better hardware.

Because eSIMs are electronically programmable, they are becoming popular in the Internet of Things (IoT). They’re now used in devices like cars, traffic systems, and smart gadgets to connect to mobile networks seamlessly.

eSIM Compatibility and Activation

While many modern devices, especially those from Apple, already support eSIM technology, Android devices are catching up quickly. For instance, the latest Motorola Razr completely eliminates the physical SIM slot, relying entirely on eSIM. Google Pixel devices and other Android smartphones, laptops, and tablets also support this technology.

If your device is eSIM-ready and you've set up carrier activation, follow these steps to activate it:

  1. When you turn on your phone, you may see a notification that says "Carrier Cellular Plan Ready to Be Installed". Tap on it.
  2. If the notification doesn’t appear, go to Settings and find Carrier Cellular Plan Ready to Be Installed.
  3. Tap Continue, and the activation process will begin. Once complete, test connectivity by making a call.
  4. If the call doesn’t connect, contact your carrier for assistance.
  5. If the eSIM replaces a physical SIM, you can safely remove the physical card after activation and restart your device.

eSIMs are especially convenient for frequent travelers or those who wish to keep their original phone number while accessing local or international data plans. With an eSIM, you can manage your connectivity needs more efficiently than ever.

Is Your Phone Compatible with eSIM?

Most smartphones manufactured from 2018 onward support eSIM technology, with some exceptions depending on the device's region or carrier restrictions. Apple was one of the first major players to introduce eSIM capability in 2018 with the iPhone XS, XS Max, and XR.

How to Check if Your iPhone Supports eSIM:

  1. Open Settings > General > About.
  2. Look for the Carrier Lock section. If it says "No SIM restrictions," your device is unlocked and ready for eSIM use. Otherwise, you’ll need to contact your carrier to unlock it.
  3. For iOS 15 or later, scroll down to "Available SIM." On older versions, look for "Digital SIM."
  4. If your phone supports eSIM, it will display a 15-digit IMEI number specific to the eSIM profile.

iPhones That Support eSIM:

  • iPhone 12, 12 Pro, 12 Mini, 12 Pro Max
  • iPhone 13, 13 Pro, 13 Mini, 13 Pro Max
  • iPhone SE (3rd generation, 2022)
  • iPhone 14, 14 Pro, 14 Plus, 14 Pro Max
  • iPhone 15, 15 Plus, 15 Pro, 15 Pro Max
  • iPhone 16 models (expected compatibility based on trends).

iPads That Support eSIM:

  • iPad Pro 11″ (models A2068 and newer)
  • iPad Pro 12.9″ (models A2069 and newer)
  • iPad Air (models A2123 and newer)
  • iPad (10th generation, 2022, and newer)
  • iPad Mini (models A2124 and newer).

 

How to Check if Your Android Phone Supports eSIM:

  1. Navigate to Settings > Network & Internet > eSIM cards.
  2. If you see an option like "Download a SIM instead?" your device is eSIM-compatible.
  3. Alternatively, dial *#06#. If your phone supports eSIM, it will display an EID (Embedded Identity Document) number, which is unique to eSIM functionality.

Popular Android Phones with eSIM Support:

  • Samsung Galaxy:
    • S21, S22, S23 series
    • Galaxy Note 20
    • Galaxy Z Fold series (e.g., Z Fold 4)
    • Galaxy Z Flip series (e.g., Z Flip 5).
  • Google Pixel:
    • Pixel 3 XL, 4, 6, 7, Fold.
  • Huawei:
    • P40 series.
  • Oppo:
    • Reno 5A, Find X5.
  • Sony:
    • Xperia 1 V, Xperia 10 III Lite.
  • Xiaomi:
    • Xiaomi 13 series.
  • Motorola:
    • Razr 2019, Edge+.
  • New Releases:
    • Samsung Galaxy S24 Series
    • Google Pixel 8 and 8 Pro.

Can I Use Multiple eSIM Providers While Traveling Abroad?

Absolutely, you can use multiple eSIMs on your device, whether you're on Android or iOS. This is particularly useful for keeping your primary SIM active while using a local eSIM to access better rates or coverage in your travel destination.

On iPhones, you can store anywhere from 5 to 10 eSIM profiles, depending on the model. For instance, devices like the iPhone 13 Pro Max, 13 Pro, 13, and 13 Mini support dual active eSIMs, allowing you to operate two simultaneously. In contrast, models such as the iPhone 12, 11, XS, XS Max, and XR can only support one eSIM at a time.

Similarly, Android devices can store multiple eSIM profiles, typically between 5 and 7, but they allow you to activate only one at any given moment.

This flexibility makes managing connectivity during multi-region trips much simpler. For example, if you're visiting both Asia and Europe in a short period, you can preload two eSIM profiles onto your device. As you move from one region to another, simply switch to the relevant eSIM without the hassle of purchasing a physical SIM in every country.

Traditional SIM cards are limited in this aspect. Even phones with dual SIM slots max out at two active physical SIMs, and many devices—like older iPhone models—don’t offer dual SIM support at all. For such cases, an eSIM-enabled device is far more convenient, especially for travelers managing multiple numbers or plans.

Conclusion: Why eSIMs are the Best Choice for Travelers

There’s no doubt that eSIMs have revolutionized the way we stay connected while traveling. With their cost-effective plans, reliable network coverage, and flexible durations, eSIMs represent the future of mobile connectivity.

The key question is—which eSIM should you choose? If you don’t need voice call minutes (which is true for most travelers), XOXO WiFi is a fantastic option. It provides an extensive range of plans, with durations up to 180 days. Covering 190 countries and offering 12 regional options, XOXO WiFi combines affordability with excellent global and local coverage, thanks to partnerships with trusted local operators.

 

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