On your next international trip, instead of swapping your physical SIM card on your phone to a local SIM, try a more efficient eSIM to make calls, send texts and access mobile data.
Roaming charges can really add to the cost of a holiday and be a nasty shock when you see your bill. While savvy travelers used to rely on local SIM cards, now many of them have switched to a more modern and convenient solution. On your next trip, try an eSIM, an online SIM card and forget the hassles of physical SIMs. With an eSIM, you won't need to worry about losing a SIM card or waste time looking for stores to buy them in.
And with eSIM technology, you can pick a plan for the country or region you're going to and there are even options that work worldwide. Plans come in both limited and unlimited data options. As a guideline: Google Maps uses 5MB per hour; Social Media: 50MB per hour; Internet Browsing: 50MB per hour; Streaming Music: 100MB per hour and SD Video: 1GB per hour.
Also, an eSim will eliminate the need to constantly be searching for Wi-Fi. This innovation is reshaping how travelers, digital nomads and mobile users access network services worldwide. No more searching for SIM cards, facing compatibility hassles, or risking losing them.
Today, with so many providers offering eSIMs, choosing one can be overwhelming. Here are a few of the best eSims to consider when traveling.
1.Yesim from US $1.6 /GB
Yesim, a subsidiary of Swiss-based Genesis Group AG, provides a diverse range of eSIM plans across more than 200 destinations. These include local plans for specific countries, regional plans for areas like Latin America and Europe and global plans such as the Global Package, which offers coverage in over 120 countries with a single eSIM. Additionally, Yesim features a unique plan: the International eSIM, where users only pay for the data they use in over 140 countries. This eSIM is operational and compatible with specific laptops and car infotainment systems, such as Audi Connect, eliminating the need to purchase new plans for each destination.
Having bought it once, you can use this eSIM all over the world. You won't end up with loads of different eSIMs on your phone. It is simple to install and use. To connect to the internet, go to Mobile Data settings, turn on the Yesim mobile line, activate Data Roaming and choose Yesim Internet line as the main connection. Yesim can be topped up almost everywhere you travel. Prices start at $0.91 / GB with unlimited data plans from 3GB - 20GB making it even cheaper.
If you anticipate using a lot of data, opt for the unlimited plan. However, if you don't need as much, the standard plan with a fixed data limit may suffice. You will receive a push notification when your data is running low, reminding you to renew your plan or top up your balance. Additionally, you can use your Yesim to create a hotspot from your phone to your laptop.
2.Airalo from US$ 4.50/GB
One of the first eSim providers, with over over 10 million users, this US company remains one of the most popular. Airalo is a top choice for travelers seeking an affordable eSIM option, available in over 200 countries. Its strength lies in strong partnerships with local telecom providers worldwide, allowing it to maintain competitive pricing. Data plans are available in sizes from 1GB to 20GB. Airlo also offers global plans as well as support for hotspots.
3.Saily from US$3.99/GB
This product from Nord Security (the company behind the well-known NordVPN) is also popular among budget-conscious travelers. Saily, new to the eSIM market since launching in 2024, covers 150 countries, slightly less than its competitors. With minimalistic design and intuitive interface, it's a user-friendly app that makes it an attractive choice for those new to eSIMs.
4.Holafly from US$6.00 for unlimited data / 1 day
Holafly eSIM cards are one of the options offering unlimited data plans, so there's no need to restrict how many videos and photos you send back to friends and family at home. It is more expensive than the others but you don't have to keep topping up as most of its plans offer unlimited data. Holafly covers 160+ destinations and has long-term plans of up to 90 days. A drawback to Holafly is that many of their eSIM plans can't be used for hotspotting.
5.Maya US$6.00/3GB
US-based Maya operates in 194 countries. While they also offer unlimited data plan options, they do not provide global plans like some competitors. However, you can use Maya eSIMs for hotspotting, giving you more flexibility when traveling and needing to connect multiple devices.
eSIMs offer numerous advantages for modern travelers and are definitely a useful travel essential. With the ability to switch between carriers without the need for a physical SIM card, users can easily access local data plans and avoid exorbitant roaming fees. Opt for an unlimited plan if you think you'll need a lot of data. Otherwise, go for a standard plan with a fixed data limit.