Best eSIMs for travelers

Having reliable mobile data when traveling is essential these days. It is useful not only for finding things to do or the correct bus route, but also for emergency communication and locating where to stay if you get lost.

While I think a lot of travelers spend a lot of time on their phones, the fact of the matter is that modern travel requires mobile data.

In the past, this meant paying excessive roaming fees to your phone provider or searching for and buying physical SIM cards at the airport. I used to spend a fortune on mobile data whenever I went on a long trip. It sucked.

Fortunately, today there is a cheaper and more convenient solution: eSIM cards.

I started using eSIMs recently and they have been a game changer.

So, in this post, I’ll explain in detail what an eSIM is and share my favorite eSIM companies so you can stay connected on your next trip – without spending a lot of money.

What is an eSIM?

A SIM card is a small memory card that you insert into your smartphone to make calls and use mobile data. It contains unique identifiers that ensure that when people call you, the call goes to your device (and not someone else’s device). You generally get one from your phone provider when you sign your contract.

eSIM is a digital version of this.

Instead of a physical Memory card, instead you install software on your smartphone that replicates the same functions as the physical card. Most smartphones only have one physical SIM slot, so the benefit of using eSIMs is that you can have multiple eSIMs on one device.

For example, if you’re from Germany and visiting the US, you’ll need to physically remove your German SIM card upon arrival and install a physical US SIM card if you want to avoid paying excessive roaming fees. But once you switch SIM cards, you won’t be able to receive calls or texts to your German phone number unless you physically remove the US SIM card and put the German SIM card back in your phone.

This is a tedious process if you need to access multiple numbers during your trip. Hence the convenience of eSIMs. It makes it very easy to visit multiple countries each year without having to juggle SIM cards. And since they allow you to set up before you arrive, you can get mobile data the minute the plane lands.

Why use an eSIM?

comfort – 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 to do this, you can purchase an eSIM and get connected in seconds.) Plus, you can also quickly extend or upgrade your plans, which is much easier (and faster) than having to extend a plan for a physical SIM.

price – eSIM cards are very cheap now, with prices starting at just $4-5. This is a fraction of what you would pay for a roaming plan!

Additional perks – Some companies (eg jetpack) offers additional benefits beyond just an eSIM data package. This can include things like lounge access for delayed flights and free VPN trials.

Customer service -If you buy a SIM card when you arrive at the airport, you won’t really be able to return to the airport kiosk if you have a problem because you will likely have traveled further. With an eSIM, you’ll have access to 24/7 online support for questions and troubleshooting.

Multiple use – Although some eSIMs expire, it is possible to get eSIMs that you can reuse over and over again, saving you time and energy.

Best eSIMs for travelers

jetpack
jetpack It is a travel eSIM company founded in Singapore. They provide affordable mobile data coverage to over 150 destinations around the world. I like that they offer regional bundles so you can visit more than one country with the same eSIM and still have reliable coverage.

But what I especially like is that it’s just a one-time install. Many other eSIMs require a new installation for each new eSIM you purchase. That’s not the case with the Jetpac, which makes it a great option for travelers who want a hassle-free eSIM (especially travelers who are less tech-savvy).

However, Jetpac does not only offer eSIMs. They actually have some pretty solid travel perks, which, in my opinion, is what makes them the best eSIM for travelers. This includes free airport lounge access if your flight is delayed, and a free subscription to ExpressVPN (which can keep your mobile data safe and secure while you’re abroad).

Jetpac quick look:

• Reasonable prices starting from only 1 USD
• Free lounge access for delayed flights
• ExpressVPN is free to try
• Exclusive discounts on airport lounges and express lanes with a discount of more than 40%
• Data packages are valid for one year from the date of purchase
• Simple one-time installation
• Hotspot capabilities

Hollafly
Hollafly It has plenty of plans, many with unlimited data, all connected to reliable networks so you’re protected no matter where you travel. They offer plans for 160 destinations, and being able to access unlimited data is a huge plus in my book. As such, it’s great for heavy data users. Additionally, you can call your friends with up to 1GB of data per day.

Holafly at a glance:

• Plan from 5 to 90 days
• Unlimited data starting at $19
• The installation process is easy
• Customer support 24/7
• 1 GB of data sharing (fast discovery) per day

Erallo
Erallo It is one of the largest eSIM providers in the world, with plans covering more than 200 countries/regions. They make it very easy to set up your eSIM, with a sleek website and reliable customer service. In addition to country-specific eSIMs, they also have regional data packages as well as global packages covering over 135 countries (perfect for long-term digital nomads).

Airalo at a glance:

• Country, region and world data packages
• More than 200 countries/regions covered
• Plans start at just $4.50
• Easy to set up
• Customer support 24/7

Frequently asked questions (FAQs) about eSIMs:

Do eSIMs support phone calls and SMS, or only data?
Some eSIMs do this, although most eSIMs currently only offer data. If you want to be able to make local or international calls on a data-only eSIM, there are several ways to do so (such as calling via WiFi, Google Voice, or Skype).

How do I activate the eSIM?
You can activate your eSIM by scanning the QR code provided by your carrier or by entering the activation details in your phone’s settings. All eSIM providers will have detailed instructions on how to activate their eSIM, and all good carriers should have 24/7 customer support to help you if necessary.

What devices support eSIM?
Most newer smartphones (post 2018) support eSIM. Most providers have a list of phone models that support eSIMs, so be sure to check before purchasing one (especially if you have an older phone).

Can I use an eSIM and a physical SIM on my device?
Many (but not all) devices offer dual SIM functionality, allowing you to use both an eSIM and a physical SIM at the same time. Make sure to check international roaming charges with your home service provider before keeping your physical SIM card active abroad. If you want to make sure it doesn’t automatically connect while you’re abroad (which usually results in high roaming charges), make sure you turn off roaming for your physical SIM card.

Can I switch between eSIM profiles?
Yes, you can store multiple eSIM profiles on your device and switch between them. Some newer phone models allow two eSIMs to be activated simultaneously, while others only allow one eSIM to be activated at a time.

How secure is the eSIM?
eSIM cards are more secure than physical SIM cards because they are built into the device and are harder to tamper with.

Can I transfer my eSIM to a new device?
Some carriers allow you to transfer your eSIM to a new device, but you may need to request a new activation code from your carrier. Some carriers also only let you transfer eSIMs once, so be sure to check before doing so if you need to.

From booking activities to using Google Maps to calling Uber, having mobile data makes traveling easier (and safer). Fortunately, accessing mobile data has never been easier. eSIMs are affordable, easy to use and can have great additional perks (e.g jetpack JetPass).

I use an eSIM when I travel and I encourage you to do the same. It’s the best way to stay connected and make the most of your travels – no matter where you go!