International SIM cards let you use mobile data abroad and, in some cases, make and receive calls while traveling without accruing hefty roaming fees.
I never travel without getting one of them first, because if you use your usual phone plan outside your country, you will have to pay for roaming, and that will drastically increase your phone bill. For this reason, it is better to use a global travel SIM when traveling.
For all our adventures abroad, we use the Holafly eSIM cards, which offer unlimited data in many countries at a fairly reasonable price. While these SIM cards don’t include calls in most countries, they often have unlimited data so that you can make voice and video calls with apps like Messenger, Skype, and WhatsApp. If that sounds good to you, and you want to get a SIM card for your next trip, don’t forget to get a discount on Holafly.
While we’re super satisfied with the international eSIMs from Holafly, I’ll share a few more options in this guide, including physical SIM cards for international travel. I also recommend reading our guide on how to travel cheaply and taking advantage of all the travel discounts available. After all, your phone bill is just one of the things you can save on while exploring the world!
International SIM cards, the best way to avoid roaming
There are several worldwide SIM cards that let you have Internet while traveling. In this guide, I’ll explain the different options and share other tips to help you find the perfect fit:
- International SIM card prices
- Best international SIM cards
- How much data should an international SIM card have?
- Is there a global SIM card that works in every country?
- Finding a global SIM that’s compatible with your device
- How to install a SIM card for international travel
Global data SIM cards are great for leisurely trips, but if you’re traveling for work or school and need to have your laptop or tablet connected to the internet, you’re better off getting a portable Wi-Fi device. We use the Solis router from Skyroam, and it really comes in handy!
Global SIM card prices
We’ve been using the international prepaid SIMs from Holafly for years, but there are other options like SimOptions, Airalo, KeepGo, and Knowroaming. If you need help deciding which one to get, check out the table below to compare global SIM card prices:
Type of card | eSIM | SIM or eSIM | eSIM | eSIM | eSIM |
United States | 5days/Unlimited/$19 | SIM cards: | 7days/1GB/$4.50 | 1year/100MB/$3 | 3days/1.5GB/$6.00 |
Europe | 5days/Unlimited/$19 | SIM cards: | 7days/1GB/$5.00 | 1year/100MB/$3 | 30days/5GB/$22.00 90days/20GB/$85.00 |
Mexico | 5days/Unlimited/$19 | SIM card: | 7days/1GB/$8.00 | 1year/100MB/$3 | 30days/1GB/$9.00 |
Egypt | 5days/Unlimited/$27 | SIM card: | 7days/1GB/$7.00 | N/A | N/A |
Japan | 5days/Unlimited/$19 | SIM card: | 7days/1GB/$4.50 | 1year/100MB/$3 | 7days/1GB/$8.00 |
Thailand | 5days/Unlimited/$19 | SIM card: | 10days/50GB/$9.90 | 1year/100MB/$3 | 7days/1GB/$8.00 |
Global | N/A | N/A | 7days/1GB/$9.00 | N/A | 1day/500MB/$4.00 |
INTERNATIONAL SIM CARD PRICES |
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To sum up, Holafly is the only international SIM with unlimited data in almost every destination, so it’s a super convenient option. That said, depending on where you’re going, it may not be the cheapest choice. Another thing to consider is that Holafly only has eSIM cards, so if your phone isn’t compatible with digital cards, you’ll need to get a physical card, such as the one from SimOptions.
Best international SIM cards
To help you choose the best international SIM card for your needs, I’m sharing the details for each of the top options below.
1. Holafly, an international SIM with unlimited data
First, Holafly is the best international data SIM card, offering unlimited data plans for most countries at a pretty affordable price. This allows you to browse the Internet, post on social media, use Google Maps, and stay in touch with loved ones via messaging apps like Skype, Telegram, and WhatsApp.
Something you should keep in mind is that Holafly’s plans are data-only, so you can’t make or receive calls abroad (the only exception is the international SIM cards for Europe). However, this isn’t an issue since you can use apps like Skype and Telegram to make voice and video calls.
Moreover, Holafly’s cards are totally digital, so you don’t have to worry about removing your usual SIM and inserting a new one into your device. All you have to do is scan the QR code in your email and follow the installation instructions. It helps to print out the QR code or download it to another device so you can scan it on your mobile phone. Also, make sure your device is compatible with the global SIM card by checking here.
Most destinations have international SIM plans for five days or more, so it’s easy to find one that suits your trip. This year, we’ve traveled around the world and visited more than 10 countries, and Holafly has always given us great service. You can read more about our experience in our Holafly review.
UNITED STATES | EUROPE | MEXICO | EGYPT | JAPAN | THAILAND |
|
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Holafly | 5days/Unlimited/$19 | 5days/Unlimited/$19 | 5days/Unlimited/$19 | 5days/Unlimited/$27 | 5days/Unlimited/$19 | 5days/Unlimited/$19 |
HOLAFLY ESIM CARDS |
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Of course, it wouldn’t be fair if I didn’t tell you about the disadvantages of using Holafly. The main drawback is that you can’t share data with other devices, so each traveler must buy their own international SIM card. Despite this, I still think Holafly is the best option for most travellers.
Also, don’t forget that you can get a discount on your Holafly eSIM!
2. SimOptions, the best physical international SIM card for travelers
If your phone isn’t compatible with eSIM technology, then the physical international SIM card from SimOptions is the best alternative. That said, it’s worth noting that SimOptions offers both conventional SIM cards and digital international SIM cards.
In addition, the company has a wide variety of country cards with different validity durations and amounts of data. SimOptions also allows data sharing, but the cards have limited data, so it’ll be much easier to run out of GBs.
To buy an international SIM from SimOptions, just order through this link. Physical cards take about three business days to arrive, and I recommend ordering in advance so you can install it and sort out any potential issues. Installation is super simple since all you have to do is insert the SIM into your device’s card slot and follow the on-screen instructions.
While SimOptions is a great choice, it’s not my favorite. I prefer to have an international SIM card with unlimited data, like the one from Holafly. With SimOptions, the cards typically include 10 GB or 30 GB of data, which is enough for about a two-week trip if you limit your videocalls and social media usage.
UNITED STATES | EUROPE | MEXICO | EGYPT | JAPAN | THAILAND |
|
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
SimOptions (SIM card) | 14days/10GB/$49.90 | 14days/12GB/$29.90 | 14days/10GB/$49.90 | 14days/10GB/$49.90 | 14days/10GB/$49.90 | 14days/10GB/$49.90 |
SimOptions (eSIM) | 10days/6GB/$17.90 | 14days/12GB/$29.90 | 14days/10GB/$39.90 | 14days/10GB/$39.90 | 5days/3GB/$8.90 | 7days/1GB/$4.90 |
SIMOPTIONS SIM CARDS |
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3. Airalo, another popular international SIM to avoid roaming fees
Airalo is another way to avoid roaming with an international SIM. Like Holafly, all the cards from Airalo are virtual, so you must be sure your device is compatible with eSIM technology. The installation process for this global SIM is similar to Holafly in that you must scan a QR code that gets sent to your email. Just follow the activation instructions, and you’re ready to go.
The main benefit of Airalo is that it offers international SIMs for several countries, so if you’re visiting multiple destinations during your trip, you can get by on just one SIM card.
All of Airalo’s plans include limited data and, depending on the destination, validity for 7, 15, or 30 days. If you plan to share your data with other travelers or devices, be aware that you’ll run out of data pretty quickly.
Weighing the pros and cons of Airalo global plans, I think the price per GB is quite high. It could be better to buy a international SIM card from Holafly for each country you visit.
UNITED STATES | EUROPE | MEXICO | EGYPT | JAPAN | THAILAND | GLOBAL |
|
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Airalo | 7days/1GB/$4.50 | 7days/1GB/$5.00 | 7days/1GB/$8.00 | 7days/1GB/$7 | 7days/1GB/$4.50 | 10days/50GB/$9.90 | 7days/1GB/$9.00 |
AIRALO SIM CARDS |
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4. KeepGo, another global SIM card for your trip overseas
KeepGo offers prepaid international SIM cards, but it works a little differently than the others that I mentioned. In this case, you pay for a set amount of data, and the card is valid for one year within a given geographic area.
Also, KeepGo only has virtual international SIM cards, so you should check your device’s compatibility before buying one.
This company isn’t my first choice since the price per GB is more expensive compared to other companies. You can see the prices and data amounts in the chart below:
UNITED STATES | EUROPE | MEXICO | JAPAN | THAILAND |
|
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
KeepGo | 1year/100MB/$3.00 | 1year/100MB/$3.00 | 1year/100MB/$3.00 | 1year/100MB/$3.00 | 1year/100MB/$3.00 |
KEEPGO SIM CARDS |
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5. KnowRoaming, another international SIM card for foreign travel
The last company I’ll talk about is KnowRoaming, which has digital international SIM cards. You’ll receive your card via email immediately after purchasing, and all you have to do is scan the QR code to install it on your device. Of course, your phone must be compatible with eSIM technology to use the cards from this company.
While KnowRoaming’s customer support is available 24 hours a day, the company has some drawbacks that you should know about. First, the price per GB is quite high compared to other options. Secondly, all of its cards have limited data, so it may not be a great deal depending on how much data you consume.
Finally, KnowRoaming doesn’t have global SIMs in as many countries as Holafly and SimOptions. You can buy their SIM card with worldwide coverage, if necessary, but this also has limited data, so it may end up costing you more money.
UNITED STATES | EUROPE | MEXICO | JAPAN | THAILAND | GLOBAL |
|
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
KnowRoaming | 5days/1.5GB/$6.00 | 30days/1GB/$5.00 | 30days/1GB/$9.00 | 7days/1GB/$8.00 | 7days/1GB/$8.00 | 1day/500MB/$4.00 |
KNOWROAMING SIM CARDS |
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How much data should an international SIM card have?
One of the most common questions when looking for an international mobile SIM card is how much data it should have. To give you a rough idea, I created a comparison chart showing common apps and phone uses and how much data each one consumes, taking into account my average consumption while traveling:
APP | 1 MINUTE OF USE | AVERAGE TIME/USAGE PER DAY | TOTAL GB FOR 7 DAYS |
|---|---|---|---|
Google Maps | 1 MB | 120 MB (2 hrs) | 840 MB |
Social media | 1.5 MB | 180 MB (2 hrs) | 1.26 GB |
Calls on Telegram, WhatsApp, etc. | 3 MB | 90 MB (30 mins) | 630 MB |
Video calls | 30 MB | 450 MB (15 mins) | 3.15 GB |
Google searches | 1.5 MB | 270 MB (3 hrs) | 1.89 GB |
1.5 MB | 22.5 MB (15 mins) | 157.5 MB |
|
Total | 38.5 MB | 1.13 GB | 7.91 GB |
HOW MUCH DATA SHOULD AN INTERNATIONAL ESIM HAVE? |
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As you can see, voice and video calls consume the most mobile data. If you only use your global SIM card for things like Google Maps and search, or to post on social media, a prepaid international SIM with limited data could be fine. Of course, keep in mind that if you plan on sharing data with a travel companion, you’ll end up using up your data twice as fast, so a limited data plan could fall short.
If you want to make calls with family and friends while traveling, an international SIM with unlimited data, like one from Holafly, is your best bet. You could also try setting a daily limit on your data consumption, turning off your device’s data when not in use, and, when possible, using the Wi-Fi in hotels, restaurants, and other public places.
What is the best international SIM card for travel?
After comparing the best global SIM cards on the market, I think the cards from Holafly come out on top. Most of Holafly’s plans offer unlimited data, so you can use your favorite apps and make calls without worrying about running out of GBs.
What is the best international SIM card for travel?
Just remember that Holafly only has virtual cards, so if your device isn’t compatible with eSIM technology, you can’t use them. The next best option is SimOptions, which offers physical and digital international SIM cards. For most countries, the lowest data plan includes 10 GB for 14 days.
Both Holafly and SimOptions have 24/7 customer support, so you can contact them if you run into any issues.
International eSIMs vs. physical international SIM cards
Whether it’s an international eSIM or a convenient international SIM card, it will have the same function. So, in that sense, one option isn’t better than the other. It’s the format of the card that you must consider since virtual international SIM cards use a newer technology that’s not compatible with all devices.
International eSIMs vs. physical international SIM cards
As long as your phone is compatible, eSIMs are much more convenient and practical since you don’t have to remove your usual SIM card to use them. In addition, you can buy an eSIM anytime, even if you’re already traveling, since it arrives via email. As a result, eSIM cards reduce plastic use and transportation, making them more environmentally friendly. This is why I believe that in the future, all international SIM cards will be digital.
If your phone isn’t compatible with eSIM technology, the best option is to get a physical international global SIM like the ones from SimOptions.
Is there a global SIM card that works in every country?
Only Airalo and KnowRoaming have international SIM cards that work for all countries (or almost every country). Holafly also has some multi-country cards that include several countries in Europe, Latin America, Asia, North America, and the Caribbean. So, if you’re going to visit several countries, it may be worth considering this type of global SIM card.
Holafly’s multi-country SIM, a global eSIM that works in many countries
Holafly offers several multi-country cards, which are perfect if you plan on visiting several countries back to back. It’s a virtual international SIM card, so all you have to do is scan the QR code in your email to connect to the mobile network automatically.
Below, you can see the different global SIMs you can get through Holafly:
COUNTRIES WITH COVERAGE | PLANS & PRICING |
|
|---|---|---|
Europe | Austria, Germany, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Greece, Hungary, Ireland, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Norway, Netherlands, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Ukraine, and United Kingdom | 5days/Unlimiteddata/$19 |
Latin America | Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Costa Rica, | 5days/Unlimited/$27 |
Asia | Cambodia, Indonesia, Japan, Laos, Malaysia, Philippines, | 5days/Unlimited/$27 |
North America | Canada, Mexico, and United States | 7days/Unlimited/$34 10days/Unlimited/$44 15days/Unlimited/$54 20days/Unlimited/$64 30days/Unlimited/$87 60days/Unlimited/$144 90days/Unlimited/$214 |
Caribbean | Antigua and Barbuda, Aruba, Barbados, Bermuda, British | 15days/7GB/$54 |
HOLAFLY MULTI-COUNTRY ESIM |
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Airalo global SIM, an international SIM card you can use anywhere
Airalo also offers an international prepaid SIM that works in almost every country. Once you install the card, you’ll automatically connect to the best mobile network in that country.
However, unlike Holafly, Airalo’s worldwide SIM cards have very limited data, so it’s easy to run out, even if you only use basic applications. I recommend checking Airalo’s data limits to determine if it’s enough mobile data for your trip and phone use. It may be worth buying different international SIMs from Holafly for shorter durations as you visit each country.
COUNTRIES WITH COVERAGE | PLANS & PRICING |
|
|---|---|---|
Global | Aland Islands, Albania, Argentina, Armenia, | 7days/1GB/$9 |
AIRALO GLOBAL ESIM |
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KnowRoaming global SIM, another worldwide SIM card
KnowRoaming is another company that has SIM cards with coverage in several countries. However, with this card, you would have the same problem as with Airalo: very limited data. Depending on what you’re going to use your worldwide SIM for, it may not have enough data, so it may be better to buy several Holafly cards of shorter duration.
COUNTRIES WITH COVERAGE | PLANS & PRICING |
|
|---|---|---|
Global | Albania, Argentina, Armenia, Australia, | 1day/500MB/$4 |
KNOWROAMING GLOBAL ESIM |
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Pros and cons of using an international SIM card for travel
Using a SIM card for international travel has its benefits and drawbacks, although I think the pros outweigh the cons:
| PROS | CONS |
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Buying a global SIM card may add an extra cost to your trip, but it’s worth it, especially when you factor in how expensive roaming is. Personally, I wouldn’t travel abroad without an international SIM that lets me connect to the Internet and stay in touch with loved ones. I’ve been using the global SIM from Holafly for years now, and if you decide to get one of your own, use the 5% discount.
How to choose an international SIM card
Before you get a new SIM card for international travel, it’s important to check its compatibility with your phone and the amount of data it offers.
In the case of international eSIMs, they’re not compatible with all phones. Holafly, Airalo, KeepGo, and KnowRoaming only offer global eSIMs, while SimOptions has both digital and physical international SIM cards.
How to choose an international SIM card
As for data, the amount offered by each card varies. Some international SIM cards have unlimited data, while others have limited data that wouldn’t even be enough for regular phone use. Holafly is the only company that offers unlimited data, with just a few exceptions, making it the most convenient option in this regard.
Another thing to consider when getting an international SIM card for travel is customer support. Holafly and SimOptions offer 24/7 customer service via chat, so you can get help from them no matter where you are in the world. KeepGo and KnowRoaming have limited customer support hours, while Airalo doesn’t offer this service at all.
Taking all these factors into account, I highly recommend Holafly as the best international SIM overall, although SimOptions is the best in terms of compatibility.
Finding a global SIM that’s compatible with your device
It’s crucial that you check your phone’s compatibility before buying a global SIM card. You should also make sure that your phone is unlocked. Otherwise, you won’t be able to use any kind of international SIM card.
When it comes to compatibility, be aware that all new phones accept virtual international SIM cards, but older models may only be compatible with physical SIMs. You can check here to see a complete list of phone models that are compatible with virtual data cards.
Again, physical SIMs are usually compatible with all devices. However, if your phone doesn’t have a dual SIM slot, you’ll have to remove your usual SIM so you can insert the international SIM card. In the case of SimOptions, they offer three SIM card formats: Standard, Micro, and Nano, so you’re sure to find one that works for you.
How to activate a SIM card for international travel
If you have a physical SIM, you must first remove your usual SIM card so you can insert the new one. Of course, if your device has a dual SIM slot, you can have both SIM cards inserted at the same time. Once you insert the global SIM card, you’re ready to use it.
If you have an international eSIM, scan the QR code on the device on which you want to have mobile data. I recommend printing out the QR code or downloading it to another device with a screen.
Here is how to activate an international SIM card on an Android device:
- Go to Settings > Connections > SIM Manager > Add SIM.
- Scan the QR code, which you should have printed or downloaded to another device.
- Follow the instructions and steps that will appear on the screen.
- Open Settings > Connections > SIM Manager
- In preferred SIM, click on Mobile data and select the eSIM to install.
- Go to Connections and enter Mobile networks to activate Data Roaming and for the eSIM to be fully activated.
For those with an iOS device, here are the activation instructions:
- Go to Settings > Mobile network > Add data plan.
- Scan the QR code, which you should have printed or downloaded to another device.
- Follow the instructions and steps that will appear on the screen.
- Open Settings > Configuration > Mobile network
- Select the eSIM to install and activate Data Roaming.
In just a few simple steps, you can install your global SIM card and start using it to access the Internet. It’s a good idea to do this before your trip so you can contact the company’s customer support team if you run into any issues.
FAQs – International SIM cards for travel
Just in case you have any other doubts, here are the answers to the most common questions about international SIM cards:
What is an international SIM card?
An international SIM card is a SIM card that allows you to access the Internet abroad without roaming. Some of these cards also include limited minutes for incoming or outgoing calls.
Do I need a SIM card for international travel?
You’ll need a global travel SIM to avoid roaming if you travel to a country not included by your phone provider.
Do international SIM cards work in any country?
No. Typically, an international SIM card only works in one country unless you have a multi-country or global SIM card.
Is my mobile device compatible with a global SIM card?
A physical global SIM card is usually compatible with all types of devices (just make sure it’s unlocked). On the other hand, a global eSIM is only compatible with certain devices. Before making a purchase, I recommend checking your phone’s compatibility here.
What is the best international SIM card?
The best option is the international SIM with unlimited data from Holafly.
Can I share data with an international SIM card?
Normally, if an international travel SIM has limited data, you can share it with other devices. However, Holafly eSIM cards have unlimited data and don’t allow sharing.
Can I keep my phone number with a global international SIM card?
Yes, you can keep your regular phone number with an international SIM card.
Where can I buy an international SIM card?
You can buy a global SIM card through Holafly, SimOptions, Airalo, KeepGo, and KnowRoaming.
What should I do with my usual SIM when using a global SIM card?
If you’re getting a physical global SIM card, and your device doesn’t have a dual SIM slot, you must remove your usual SIM card. Keep it in a safe place so you don’t lose it while traveling. If your device has a dual SIM slot, just insert the international SIM into the second slot.
What should I do if I have issues with my international SIM card while overseas?
If you have problems with your prepaid international SIM, contact the company’s customer support team. In the case of Holafly and SimOptions, their customer service team is available via chat 24/7.
How much data should a global SIM card have?
The amount of data for an international SIM depends on what you’re going to use the Internet for. To give you an example, for a 7-day trip, you’ll need about 5-10 GB per person to use Google Maps, search the Internet, access social networks, and use WhatsApp to send messages and make calls.
That’s everything you should know about SIM cards for foreign travel, where to buy them, and how much data you’ll need. If you have any other questions or want to share your experience with using a global SIM card, leave me a comment below. I’d love to hear from you!
Stay safe, and enjoy your trip!
