The Best eSIMs For Travelers
It’s essential to have reliable mobile data while traveling. While I believe that many travelers are spending too much time on the phone, it is true that mobile data is essential for modern travel. It was a pain.
Fortunately, there’s a cheaper and more convenient solution: eSIMs.
I started using eSIMs recently and they have been incredibly helpful. It sucked.
Fortunately, today, there’s a cheaper and more convenient solution: eSIMs.
I started using eSIMs recently and they’ve been a game changer.
So, in this post, I’ll break down what exactly an eSIM is and share my favorite eSIM companies so that 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 in order to make calls and use mobile data. The card has unique identifiers to ensure that people calling you will reach your phone (and not another person’s). An eSIM, on the other hand, is a digital version. Since most smartphones only have one port for a SIM card, using eSIMs allows you to have more than one SIM on the same device. You will not be able receive texts or calls to your German number until you remove the US SIM and replace it with the German SIM. The convenience of eSIMs is a result. Since you can set up your eSIM before you arrive, it’s easy to travel to multiple countries every year. And since they let you get set up before you arrive, you can get mobile data the minute you touch down.
Why use an eSIM?
Convenience
– Not only can you set up your eSIM from the comfort of home, but you can do it before you leave so it’s ready when you arrive. If you forget, you can buy an eSIM to get connected instantly. Plus, you can also extend your plans or upgrade them on the fly, which is much easier (and faster) than having to extend the plan for a physical SIM card.
Price
– eSIMs are super cheap now, with plans starting at just $4-5 USD. This is a fraction of the cost for a roaming package! These can include things like lounge access for delayed flights and free VPN trials.
Customer Service
– If you buy a SIM card on arrival at the airport, you can’t really go back to that airport kiosk if you have a problem since you’ll likely have traveled onward. With an eSIM, you’ll have 24/7 access to online support for questions and troubleshooting.Multiple Usage
– While some eSIMs will expire, it’s possible to get eSIMs that you can reuse again and again, saving you time and energy.
The Best eSIMs for TravelersJetpac
Jetpac is a travel eSIM company founded in Singapore. They provide affordable mobile data coverage for over 150 destinations worldwide. I like that they offer regional bundles so that you can visit more than one country with the same eSIM and still have reliable coverage.What I especially love, though, is that it’s just a one-time installation. Other eSIMs will require you to install a new one for every new eSIM. That’s not the case with Jetpac, making this a great choice for travelers who want a hassle-free eSIM (especially travelers who are less tech savvy).
Jetpac doesn’t just offer eSIMs though. Jetpac offers some great travel perks that make them my favorite eSIM. This includes free lounge access at the airport if your flight is delayed, and a free trail of ExpressVPN (which can keep your mobile data safe and secure while abroad).Jetpac at a glance:
Affordable prices starting at just $1 USD
Free lounge access for flight delays
Free ExpressVPN trial
Exclusive discounts on airport lounges and fast tracks, offering over 40% off
Data packs are valid one year from purchase
Simple, one-time installation
Hot spot capabilities
- Jetpac eSIMs: Click to find out more!
- Holafly
- Holafly has a ton of plans, many with unlimited data, all connected to reliable networks so you’re covered no matter where you travel. The plans are available in 160 destinations and unlimited data is an added bonus. They’re also great for heavy users of data. Plus, you can hot spot your friends up to 1 GB of data per day.
- Holafly at a glance:
- Plans from 5-90 days
- Unlimited data starting at $19 USD
Easy installation process
24/7 customer support
1 GB of data sharing (hot spotting) per day
Airalo
- Airalo is one of the biggest eSIM providers in the world, with plans covering over 200 countries/regions. With a user-friendly website and dependable customer service, they make it easy to set up your eSIM. In addition to country-specific eSIMs, they also have regional data packs as well as global packs that cover over 135 countries (perfect for long-term nomads).
- Airalo at a glance:
- Country, region, and global data packs
- 200+ countries/regions covered
- Plans starting at just $4.50 USD
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, though most eSIMs currently offer data only. There are many ways to make calls with a data only eSIM (like Google Voice or Skype). You can activate your eSIM either by scanning the QR code provided by your provider or entering the activation details into your phone’s settings. Most newer smartphones (post-2018) support eSIMs. Check with your provider to see which models are compatible. Check with your provider about international roaming fees before keeping your physical SIM active overseas. Turn off roaming on your physical SIM to prevent it from automatically connecting while abroad, which can incur high roaming fees.
- Can I switch between eSIM profiles?
- Yes, you can store multiple eSIM profiles on your device and switch between them. It is more secure to use an eSIM than a physical SIM card because it’s embedded into the phone. You may be able to transfer an eSIM to a new device, but you will need a new activation code from your carrier.
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Traveling is easier and safer with mobile data. It’s easier than ever to get mobile data. You should use an eSIM when you travel. No matter where you’re going, they are the best way to keep in touch and maximize your trip. This is my favorite search engine, because it searches all websites and airlines in the world. - Book Your Accommodation
You can book your hostel with Hostelworld. Booking.com is the best option if you don’t want to stay in a hostel. It consistently offers the lowest rates for hotels and guesthouses.
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance
Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. This is comprehensive coverage in the event of an accident. My favorite companies that offer the best service and value are:
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Travel cards let you earn points which can be redeemed for flights and accommodations for no extra cost. Visit my guide on choosing the best card to see my favorite deals and to learn how to get started. Ready to book your trip?
Check my resource page to find the best travel companies. Here are all the companies I use to travel. You can’t go far wrong with them. They are top-of-the-line and the best you can get.
