Stay Connected Abroad
Skip expensive roaming charges. An eSIM gives you affordable data in 200+ countries, activated in minutes from your phone.
What is an eSIM?
An eSIM is a digital SIM card built into modern phones. Instead of buying a physical SIM card at the airport or hunting for a local shop, you simply download a data plan to your phone before or during your trip.
Your phone can run two SIMs at once: your home number stays active for calls and texts, while the eSIM handles data. No more swapping SIM cards, no roaming charges, and no searching for Wi-Fi.
Plans start as low as $3 for 1GB and go up to unlimited data. Most travelers save 70-90% compared to international roaming rates from their home carrier.
Best eSIM providers compared
Airalo
World's first eSIM marketplace
★★★★★4.6- ✓1GB / 7 days from $4.50
- ✓3GB / 30 days from $11
- ✓Unlimited varies by region
+ Widest country coverage
+ Easy app setup
+ Data-only and voice+data options
- No physical SIM fallback
- Some countries limited speeds
Holafly
Unlimited data, no surprises
★★★★☆4.4- ✓Unlimited 5 days from $19
- ✓Unlimited 10 days from $34
- ✓Unlimited 30 days from $54
+ Truly unlimited data
+ WhatsApp customer support
+ Instant activation
- More expensive for light use
- No voice/SMS on most plans
Nomad eSIM
Budget-friendly global coverage
★★★★☆4.1- ✓1GB from $3
- ✓5GB from $12
- ✓10GB from $20
+ Cheapest per-GB rates
+ Simple purchasing
+ Good for short trips
- Fewer countries
- Less polished app
How to set up an eSIM
Check device compatibility
Make sure your phone supports eSIM. Most iPhones (XS and later), Samsung Galaxy S20+, and Google Pixel 3+ do.
Purchase your eSIM plan
Choose a provider and plan based on your destination, trip length, and data needs. Buy through the provider's app or website.
Install the eSIM profile
Scan the QR code or use the provider's app to install the eSIM. You can do this before your trip — just don't activate yet.
Activate at your destination
When you land, switch to your eSIM data plan in Settings. Turn off your regular SIM's data roaming to avoid charges.
Does my phone support eSIM?
Most phones released after 2019 support eSIM. Here are the confirmed compatible devices:
- ✓iPhone XS, XR, and all newer models
- ✓Samsung Galaxy S20, S21, S22, S23, S24, Z Flip/Fold series
- ✓Google Pixel 3 and all newer models
- ✓iPad Pro (3rd gen+), iPad Air (3rd gen+), iPad mini (5th gen+)
- ✓Motorola Razr, Edge series
- ✓OnePlus (select models)
- ✓Huawei P40, Mate 40 series
Tip: On iPhone, go to Settings > Cellular > Add eSIM to check. On Android, go to Settings > Network > SIM cards to verify.
Frequently asked questions
What is an eSIM?
An eSIM (embedded SIM) is a digital SIM built into your phone. Instead of inserting a physical SIM card, you download a profile that connects you to a mobile network. This means you can switch carriers or add a travel data plan without swapping SIM cards.
Is an eSIM better than a local SIM card?
For most travelers, yes. eSIMs are faster to set up (no finding a shop or swapping cards), you can buy before you travel, and your home number stays active on your physical SIM. Local SIMs can be cheaper in some countries, but the convenience of eSIMs usually wins.
Will my phone number still work with an eSIM?
Yes. Your phone runs both your regular SIM and the eSIM simultaneously (dual SIM). You keep your home number for calls and texts while using the eSIM for data. Just make sure data roaming is turned off on your home SIM to avoid charges.
How much data do I need for travel?
Light users (maps, messaging, email) need about 1-2GB per week. Moderate users (social media, web browsing) need 3-5GB per week. Heavy users (video calls, streaming) should consider unlimited plans. When in doubt, 1GB per day is a comfortable baseline.
Can I use an eSIM on multiple devices?
Typically, an eSIM plan is tied to one device. Some providers allow you to re-install the profile if you switch devices, but most plans are single-use. If you need data on multiple devices, consider using your phone as a hotspot.
Disclaimer: Prices, coverage, and compatibility details are approximate and may change. We may earn a commission through affiliate links at no extra cost to you.