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With an international eSIM, you can have Internet for travel without the hefty roaming fees. In fact, given the super expensive roaming rates, I highly recommend getting a travel eSIM so you can connect to the Internet, as well as make and receive calls, for less.
An international eSIM card typically only includes mobile data, but this isn’t an issue these days. There are various apps that allow you to make voice and video calls, such as Skype, Telegram, and WhatsApp. So, having an international eSIM plan with call minutes isn’t really necessary.
For our trips around the world, we always rely on Holafly since they offer international eSIMs with unlimited data. Their digital SIM cards are available in over 130 countries, and at a fairly reasonable price, although if you decide to buy one, you can use the 5% discount on Holafly.
Of course, there are other options that are worth checking out, so if you’re not sure which international eSIM to buy, don’t worry. In this guide, I’ll share the 6 best international eSIMs, including their prices and data limits, as well as tips for installing and using your eSIM abroad.
What is an international eSIM?
An international eSIM card is a digital SIM card that allows you to get mobile data while traveling abroad. It’s a simple, cheap, and convenient way to access the Internet in just about any country without having to pay for roaming. Plus, some eSIMs also include minutes so you can make and receive phone calls.
A travel eSIM works in much the same way as a physical SIM. The primary difference is that you don’t have to insert an eSIM into your device since the configuration is done virtually. I explain all this in our guide on eSIM cards, so I recommend checking that out if you’re not familiar with digital SIM cards.
What’s the difference between an international eSIM and an international SIM card?
The main difference between an international eSIM and an international SIM card is the format. An eSIM is digital, while a SIM card is physical, meaning that the former is installed by scanning a QR code, while the latter needs to be manually inserted into your device’s SIM card slot.
What’s the difference between an international eSIM and an international SIM card?
In the case of physical SIM cards, you can only insert one card at a time, maybe two if your device has a dual card slot. Meanwhile, a phone that’s compatible with eSIM technology can have multiple cards installed simultaneously, such as a personal eSIM, a work eSIM, etc.
Another key difference is that, due to its format, eSIMs for international travel aren’t compatible with all devices. This doesn’t happen with physical SIMs, which are compatible with all old phones. However, some newer phone models may not have a SIM card slot. You can check if your device has eSIM technology here.
Whether you decide to buy an international eSIM or a physical SIM card, you should make sure that your phone is unlocked. Otherwise, you won’t be able to install the card at all.
Despite these differences, you’ll be able to get mobile data abroad with an international SIM card or an eSIM. In some cases, you may even have minutes to use for incoming and outgoing phone calls. That said, this guide is about the best eSIMs for international travel, so I’ll share the best options and compare their prices in a bit. For now, here is a table comparing eSIMs and physical SIM cards so you can get a better idea of their differences:
ESIM | TRADITIONAL SIM |
|
|---|---|---|
Format | Digital | Physical |
Variations | - | • Mini SIM |
Location | Software | SIM card slot |
Capacity | You can install multiple eSIMs simultaneously | Maximum one SIM card per slot |
Characteristics | • Doesn't require physical installation | • Requires physical installation |
Compatibility | New mobile phones only | All old mobile phones and most new phones |
DIFFERENCES BETWEEN ESIMS & TRADITIONAL SIMS |
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If your device isn’t compatible with a digital SIM, I recommend taking a look at SimOptions, which offers some of the best international SIM cards on the market.
Price of an international eSIM
The price of an international eSIM card varies depending on the company, your destination, the duration of your trip, and how many GB of data you want. To give you a better idea, I’ve compared the 6 best international eSIMs in this guide, as you can see in the chart below.
For this comparison, I simulated the search for Japanese SIM cards, SIM cards for Europe, Mexican SIM cards, and SIM cards for Canada.
Japan 7 days | $27/Unlimited GB | $4.90/1GB | $4.50/1GB | N/A | $8/1GB | $11/3GB |
Europe 10 days | $34/Unlimited GB | $29.90/12GB | N/A | $5/1GB | $5/1GB | $12/5GB |
Mexico 15 days | $47/Unlimited GB | $39.90/6GB | $15/2GB | $9/1GB | $17/1GB | $19/5GB |
Canada 20 days | $54/Unlimited GB | $24.90/10GB | $15/3GB | $10/1GB | $8/1GB | $27/10GB |
INTERNATIONAL ESIM CARD PRICES |
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As you can see, Holafly is the only company that offers international eSIM cards with unlimited data at each destination, which is why it’s always our first choice. While the eSIM itself is more expensive, it’s worth it to have unlimited data for our entire trip.
Of course, it all depends on how much data you’ll need. If you plan to upload content to social media or do some remote work, then I recommend buying the international eSIM from Holafly. If you think you’ll just be using the Internet from time to time, then SimOptions and Airalo offer the cheapest international eSIMs.
Best eSIMs for international travel
If you’re still not sure which is the best eSIM for international travel, here are six great options to get you started. Below, I’ll tell you about each one so you can find the best fit for your trip purposes and data needs.
1. Holafly, the best international eSIM with unlimited data
First, Holafly is the best international eSIM if you’re like us and consume a lot of data. With just a few exceptions, this international eSIM has unlimited data, so you can surf the Internet, access social media, and use other apps without any limits.
All of Holafly’s plans (besides the card for Europe), are data-only. However, this isn’t an issue since there are apps like Skype and WhatsApp that allow you to make voice and video calls. And since most of the plans include unlimited data, you don’t have to worry about using all your data on these high-consumption apps. Just be aware that Holafly doesn’t allow data sharing, so each traveler must have their own eSIM if they want to connect to the Internet.
Depending on your destination, you can find international eSIM plans for durations of 5 to 90 days, so I’m sure you’ll find one that suits your trip. We’ve used Holafly in several different countries and have always had a great experience. Having unlimited data gives us peace of mind, especially when we need to be connected for work. Plus, we can stay in touch with family and friends without worrying about running out of data.
You can read our complete Holafly review for more information about this eSIM. If you decide to get it for yourself, remember to use the 5% Holafly discount.
2. SimOptions, another international eSIM or physical SIM for travel
SimOptions is another great choice if you’re looking for a cheap international eSIM card. Not only does SimOptions offer eSIMs, but it also has physical cards, so you can get a traditional SIM card if your device isn’t compatible with a digital one.
In terms of their international eSIMs for travel, SimOptions doesn’t allow you to make or receive calls. Keep that in mind, especially if you plan to use different apps to make calls, as the data will run out quickly.
On the other hand, SimOptions does allow data sharing, which can be convenient but also a faster way to run out of data.
It depends on where you travel, but SimOptions’ international eSIM data plans typically offer 10 GB or 20 GB, which is pretty generous. This makes SimOptions a good alternative to Airalo, but I recommend comparing the two before you make your final choice.
In general, I like SimOptions, although I prefer Holafly since it has unlimited data. However, if unlimited data isn’t super important to you, then the SimOptions card is a solid choice.
3. Airalo, a good international eSIM for travel abroad
Another good international eSIM is the one from Airalo. Like Holafly, this company only offers digital cards, so you’ll have to make sure your device is compatible with eSIMs.
Airalo has some of the cheapest international eSIMs on the market, with plan durations of 7, 15, or 30 days, depending on the destination. However, the plans have limited data, and the amounts are quite low, which explains the cheap prices.
Another thing to consider is that the travel eSIMs from Airalo are data-only, so if you plan to use an app like Skype to make calls, you’ll end up running out of data rather quickly. Then, you’ll have to buy another eSIM, which will end up costing you more. In my case, I prefer spending a bit more upfront for the Holafly eSIM, which offers unlimited data.
Of course, Airalo has its advantages, namely the fact that it allows data sharing, so you can enjoy Airalo’s data on multiple devices. Just keep in mind that this means you’ll use up your data sooner, so I recommend doing the math before you decide to purchase.
4. Knowroaming, an international eSIM for any type of travel
If you’re looking to avoid international roaming with an eSIM, then Knowroaming is one option you can consider. However, be aware that all of the eSIMs from this company have limited data, and in some cases, the price per GB is quite high compared to other options.
Moreover, depending on where you’re going, you may not be able to find an international eSIM through Knowroaming, so it’s not the most convenient choice.
Given its drawbacks, I honestly think you’re better off going with Holafly, SimOptions, or Airalo instead.
5. KeepGo, another site where you can buy an international eSIM
You can also get an international eSIM through KeepGo. This card works a bit differently than the others I mentioned, as it allows you to pay for a certain amount of data and spend it over the course of a year (within a specific country). So, for example, if you think you’ll only need 1 GB during your trip, you can pay for just that GB, regardless of when you’re traveling.
This can be a very practical option, although when I compared it to the other international eSIMs in this guide, it was more expensive.
That said, I do like that KeepGo has portable Wi-Fi available. This is super convenient, especially if you need to connect to the Internet on your laptop.
6. YeSIM, another option if you’re looking for an international eSIM
Lastly, YeSIM is another company that offers international eSIM cards for travel. It’s a generally good option since it’s available in many countries. That said, it ended up being the most expensive option when I compared it to the other alternatives in this guide. In fact, in some countries, it’s better to get the Holafly eSIM, which is cheaper and has unlimited data.
While YeSIM offers a variety of international eSIMs for different countries, it’s not my first choice, especially given the higher prices and lower amounts of data.
What is the best international eSIM on the market?
If you want to travel worry-free, the best eSIM for international travel is the one from Holafly.
With just a few exceptions, all of the international eSIM plans with Holafly have unlimited data, so you can use your mobile device as much as you want. While the Holafly plans don’t include minutes to make or receive calls, you can use apps like Skype and WhatsApp. And since you’ll have unlimited data, it’s okay if these apps consume a lot of mobile data. Plus, Holafly has 24/7 customer support, so you can resolve any issues quickly.
What is the best international eSIM on the market?
If you want another option, I recommend SimOptions, which offers physical SIMs and eSIMs for traveling abroad. While these eSIMs have limited data, the price per GB is more affordable than most other companies. Like Holafly, SimOptions has 24/7 customer assistance, so you can quickly and easily take care of any questions or concerns.
Yet another option is Airalo, which could work well for you depending on your destination and how much data you’ll need.
How much data should an international eSIM have?
If you’re not sure how much data an international eSIM should have, take a look at the chart below. It’ll give you a better idea of the amount of data different apps use. This way, you can anticipate how much data you’ll want your international eSIM plan to include.
Of course, remember that these amounts are approximate, as some apps consume data even when they’re running the background.
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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You’ll see that calls and video calls consume higher amounts of data. So, if you need an international eSIM card for basic things like using Google Maps and Google search, then a card with limited data, like the ones from SimOptions, may be just fine. On the other hand, if you plan to make calls or spend a lot of time on social media, I recommend an international eSIM with unlimited data, like the ones from Holafly.
Also, if you’re going to buy a prepaid international eSIM with limited data, I recommend setting a daily consumption limit for yourself. This way, you’ll have greater control over how much data you consume. You can also take advantage of public Wi-Fi networks during your trip and disconnect from your mobile data when you’re not using your phone.
Is there an international eSIM that works in every country?
If you’re going to visit several countries while traveling abroad, you have a couple of options. You can buy an international eSIM for each country you’ll visit, or you can get a global or multi-country eSIM. This type of eSIM works in just about every country, but they’re not available with all companies. Of the options I mentioned in this guide, Holafly, Airalo and Knowroaming offer multi-country cards.
Multi-country eSIM from Holafly, an international eSIM card that works globally
Holafly offers several international eSIMs that include several countries in Europe, Latin America, Asia, North America, and the Caribbean. Without a doubt, these cards are ideal if you’re planning to visit several countries within the aforementioned area since once you install the digital SIM, you’ll automatically connect to the network there.
Plus, Holafly has the best international eSIM data plans, offering unlimited data everywhere except for the Caribbean.
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 card, an international eSIM with worldwide coverage
Airalo also has a global eSIM that works for almost every country in the world. So, if you know you’re going to jet-set around the globe and move around different countries, this card will ensure that you have mobile data while you travel.
Airalo global card, an international eSIM with worldwide coverage
Before buying the international eSIM from Airalo, keep in mind that it has limited data. You should consider how much data you’ll use during your trip, since it may be more economical to buy several shorter-duration cards in each country. If you do want a global card, I recommend getting it from Holafly so you can enjoy unlimited data.
COUNTRIES WITH COVERAGE | PLANS & PRICING |
|
|---|---|---|
Global | Aland Islands, Albania, Argentina, Armenia, | 7days/1GB/$9 |
AIRALO GLOBAL ESIM |
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Knowroaming global card, another international eSIM you can use in multiple countries
The international eSIM card for travel from Knowroaming provides coverage in several countries. However, the data plans are limited, so it may not be the best choice for a longer trip. Personally, I think it’s better to get a Knowroaming card for each country you plan to visit, or to buy the international eSIM from Holafly so you can have unlimited data.
COUNTRIES WITH COVERAGE | PLANS & PRICING |
|
|---|---|---|
Global | Albania, Argentina, Armenia, Australia, | 1day/500MB/$4 |
KNOWROAMING GLOBAL ESIM |
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How to install an international eSIM, step-by-step
Installing an international eSIM for travel is super simple, whether you have an Android or an iPhone. All you have to do is scan the QR code that will be sent to your email as soon as you purchase the card.
How to install an international eSIM, step-by-step
There are just a few small differences in the installation process for Android and iPhone devices, so I’ll give you follow-along steps:
Activating an international eSIM on an Android device
For Android users, follow these steps to set up your travel eSIM:
- Go to Settings and click 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 onscreen.
- Open Settings again and click Connections > SIM Manager.
- In preferred SIM, click on Mobile data and select the eSIM you want to activate.
Activating an international eSIM on an iPhone
If you’re using iOS, here’s how to add an international eSIM on iPhone:
- Go to Settings, click Mobile network, and select 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 onscreen.
- Open Settings again and click Configuration > Mobile network.
- Select the eSIM you want to use.
As you can see, the installation process is quick and simple, so you shouldn’t have any issues. In the case of Holafly, you can contact customer support 24/7 if you run into any difficulties during or after installing your eSIM.
Checking your phone’s compatibility with an international eSIM
Before you buy an international eSIM, make sure your phone is compatible with this type of card. This technology is relatively new, so while all the newer phone models are compatible, some older devices may not be able to use an eSIM.
To give you some background, an eSIM gets its name from “Embedded SIM,” meaning that it’s an integrated SIM. Only phones and devices that already have a built-in SIM will be compatible with international eSIMs from companies like Holafly.
You can check your phone’s specifications to determine if it’s compatible with a global eSIM. We also have a guide on how eSIM cards work, in which we include a complete list of smartphones that support this technology.
Advantages & disadvantages of using an international eSIM for travel
A travel eSIM has its pros and cons, so it’s important to compare them both and see if the benefits outweigh the drawbacks:
| PROS | CONS |
|
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After analyzing both the pros and cons, it’s clear that there are more advantages of an international eSIM than disadvantages. If your device is compatible, I highly recommend getting an eSIM for travel.
Alternatives to using an international eSIM abroad
If your device isn’t compatible with an international eSIM, or you just think this option isn’t right for you, don’t worry. There are other ways to stay connected while traveling:
International SIM card, a physical card for getting Internet abroad
An international SIM is a physical SIM card and the perfect option if an international eSIM isn’t compatible with your device. The physical card works the same way that a digital card does, and you can even find both types of cards with companies like SimOptions.
Just as you would with an eSIM card for international travel, you’ll have to choose a physical SIM that works in the specific country you’re traveling to. Make sure you select the correct trip duration and amount of data that corresponds to your travel dates.
International SIM card, a physical card for getting Internet abroad
After ordering your physical SIM, you’ll receive it in the mail at your home (or whatever delivery address you specify), and then you just have to insert it into your device. I recommend ordering your card in advance, so you receive it in time, as it usually takes a few business days to arrive.
Of course, another option is to buy a local SIM card at your destination. However, I don’t recommend this method because you’ll end up spending valuable vacation time shopping around and looking for the best option.
Portable Wi-Fi, another way to avoid roaming charges while traveling
If you need Internet on several devices as well as a stable connection for work or studying, then consider a portable Wi-Fi device. This option has the added advantage of fast Internet speeds, making it ideal for digital nomads like us.
We’ve been using the Skyroam Solis router for quite a while now. It doesn’t require a SIM card; rather, it uses an international eSIM that provides 4G LTE coverage in over 130 countries. If you’re interested, make sure you check out the different data plans on Solis’ official website.
Portable Wi-Fi, another way to avoid roaming charges while traveling
This is a great choice if you’re going to be working during your trip, or you want to access the Internet on several devices simultaneously. Of course, keep in mind that, in addition to the router itself, you’ll also have to pay for the data plan or the SIM if you buy a router with a SIM card slot.
We have a complete guide to how portable Wi-Fi devices work, so check it out!
Public Wi-Fi, a free way to get Internet in another country
Connecting to a public Wi-Fi network is a free way to get Internet abroad, and it’s compatible with any type of device. However, these public networks aren’t always convenient since you usually have to be in a hotel, restaurant, café, or shopping center to access them.
Public Wi-Fi, a free way to get Internet in another country
Also, these types of networks tend to be unstable and slow since many people are connected at the same time, and there are questions about security and privacy. Despite these drawbacks, it can be a good option if you need to quickly access the Web to check email or look something up.
For more information, check out our guide on how to get Internet while traveling.
Roaming, another way to use the Internet abroad (not recommended)
Finally, you can bypass the international eSIM and pay for roaming instead. I don’t recommend this option, as the costs for roaming while abroad are super expensive, unless your telephone provider offers a special rate.
Roaming, another way to use the Internet abroad
That said, most companies charge a lot for roaming. For example, most mobile providers charge $10 a day if you use their roaming services. Every company is different, and it does depend on where you travel, but it’s easy to see how the costs can really add up. In my opinion, it’s much better to buy an international eSIM card so you can avoid surprises on your phone bill.
FAQs – International eSIM cards
Now you know what an international eSIM is and how it works, but if you still have doubts, here are the answers to some common questions:
How do you activate an international eSIM?
To activate a global eSIM, you must scan the corresponding QR code, which you’ll receive via email after purchasing the card. Simply follow the installation steps, and make sure that you scan the QR code on the device on which you want mobile data.
Is an international eSIM better than a physical SIM card?
An international eSIM works the same way that a physical SIM card does. The main difference is that you don’t have to install an eSIM into your device, so there’s no way to lose it. It can also be more convenient since you can buy the international eSIM card at any time, even if you’re already traveling. Plus, you can install more than one eSIM card simultaneously, regardless of how many SIM slots your device has.
Can I use the same eSIM in different countries?
You can use your eSIM on holiday as long as it’s a multi-country or international eSIM.
Are all phones compatible with an international eSIM?
No, not every device is compatible with a global eSIM, so you should check your phone’s compatibility before buying.
Can I use multiple eSIMs on the same device?
Yes, most phones allow you to use multiple international eSIMs.
What should I do if I lose my device?
If you lose the phone that has the eSIM installed on it, you’ll have to contact the customer support team for the company you bought the eSIM from. They’ll be able to deactivate the eSIM for you.
Can I share my data plan with other devices using an international eSIM?
It depends on where you buy the international eSIM since some of them allow data sharing, while others do not. For example, Holafly’s eSIMs offer unlimited data, but you can’t share data. On the other hand, SimOptions’ cards have a limited amount of data, but they allow data sharing.
And that’s all. Now you know what an international eSIM is and how it works, so I hope that on your next trip, you can be connected without problems. If you have any questions, you can leave me a comment below and I will try to help you in any way I can. Or you can share your experience using an international data eSIM, I’d love to hear how it went!
And now, enjoy your trip!
