eSIM technology isn’t just a fancy trend; its a game-changer for travelers, remote workers, and anyone who values seamless, secure connectivity. No more swapping SIMs between countries. No more panic when your phone gets stolen (because yes, thieves can’t just pop out your eSIM). Just instant access to data, anywhere—activated with a quick scan or tap.
But not all eSIM providers are equal. Some offer unlimited plans, others include voice calls, and a few even throw in perks like free VPNs or lounge access. So how do you pick the right one?
Best Travel eSIM
We’ve tested the top options to find the best eSIMs for every need—whether you’re a frequent flier, a budget backpacker, or just done with the hassle of physical SIM. Let’s dive in.
Flexiroam
Flexiroam is possibly the best eSIM service with coverage in over 200 countries. The service supports data sharing and allows eSIM reinstallation on different devices after proper removal from the previous device. Flexiroam offers a refund policy for unused data plans.
Key Features
- Coverage in over 200 countries
- Dedicated Data-only plans
- Dedicated Voice & SMS plans
- Activation via QR code
- Data sharing/tethering supported
- eSIM reinstallation allowed
- Refunds available for unused data plans
Pros
- Extensive global coverage
- Variety of data plans
- Supports data sharing
- eSIM reinstallation allowed
- Voice and SMS plans
- Virtual phone number
- Inflight data plans
Cons
- We love neon green more
Holafly
Holafly is a trusted eSIM provider offering unlimited data plans across 190+ destinations, popular among international travelers. It supports quick activation via QR code and offers 24/7 multilingual customer support. While the service is convenient for heavy data users, limitations in functionality may affect its appeal depending on travel needs.
Key Features
- Coverage in over 190 countries
- Unlimited data plans with flexible durations (5 to 90 days)
- Activation via QR code or manual setup
- Works with most eSIM-compatible devices (iPhone, Pixel, Samsung)
- 24/7 support via chat and WhatsApp
- Payment via major cards, PayPal, Apple Pay
Pros
- Unlimited data
- Wide country coverage
- Flexible plan durations
- Easy activation
- 24/7 customer service
Cons
- No voice or SMS services
- No data sharing/tethering
- One-time activation only – cannot reinstall if deleted
Saily
Saily offers eSIM services for travelers, providing affordable data plans across 150+ countries. The mobile app features a user-friendly interface, facilitating easy activation and management. Notably, Saily allows data sharing and supports eSIM reinstallation on the same or different devices using the same account.
Key Features
- Coverage in over 150 countries
- Data-only plans with various durations
- Activation via QR code or manual setup
- Mobile app with user-friendly interface
- Data sharing/tethering supported
- eSIM reinstallation allowed on same or different devices with same account
- Refunds available within 30 days if the eSIM is uninstalled and unused
Pros
- Wide international coverage
- Flexible eSIM plan
- Easy activation process
- Mobile app with user-friendly interface
- Data sharing supported
- eSIM reinstallation allowed
- Straightforward refund policy
Cons
- No voice or SMS services
Ubigi
Ubigi provides eSIM services with coverage in over 200 countries. It offers data-only plans and supports data sharing. The eSIM profile can be reinstalled up to five times after deletion, offering flexibility for device changes.
Key Features
- Coverage in over 200 countries
- Data-only plans with various options
- Activation via QR code
- Data sharing/tethering supported
- eSIM profile reinstallation allowed up to 5 times after deletion
- Refunds considered within 15 days if the plan is unused
Pros
- Extensive global coverage
- Variety of data plans
- Supports data sharing
- Quick activation process
- eSIM reinstallation allowed up to 5 times
Cons
- No voice or SMS services
Airhub
Airhub offers eSIM services with data and select voice/SMS plans across multiple countries. It supports data sharing and provides easy activation via QR code. The service allows for flexible connectivity options for travelers.
Key Features
- Coverage in multiple countries
- Data-only and select voice/SMS plans available
- Activation via QR code
- Data sharing/tethering supported
- eSIM reinstallation policy not specified
- Refunds considered in cases of service failure
Pros
- Wide range of plan options
- Easy activation process
- Supports data sharing
- Select plans include voice and SMS services
Cons
- e-SIM can only be installed once
Nomad
Nomad offers eSIM data plans for travelers across 100+ countries. The service provides flexible data options and a user-friendly mobile app for easy activation and management. Nomad eSIMs are typically single-use, and reinstallation is generally not supported unless explicitly instructed by customer support.
Key Features
- Coverage in over 100 countries
- Data-only plans with various durations
- Activation via QR code
- Mobile app with user-friendly interface
- Data sharing/tethering supported
- Refunds available within 30 days if eSIM is uninstalled and unused
Pros
- Flexible data plans
- Easy activation process
- Mobile app with user-friendly interface
- Supports data sharing
Cons
- No voice or SMS services
- eSIM reinstallation not supported
aloSIM
aloSIM provides eSIM data plans with coverage in over 200 countries. It supports data sharing and offers a free Hushed number with each plan, enabling voice and SMS services over data. The service allows for eSIM reinstallation on the same device.
Key Features
- Coverage in over 200 countries
- Data-only plans with various durations
- Activation via QR code or manual setup
- Data sharing/tethering supported
- Includes free Hushed number for voice and SMS over data
- eSIM reinstallation allowed on the same device
- 30-day refund guarantee for connectivity issues
Pros
- Extensive global coverage
- Flexible data plans
- Easy activation process
- Supports data sharing
- Includes free Hushed number for voice and SMS
Cons
- Native voice or SMS services not included without Hushed
- re-installation of eSIM is now allowed
Yesim
Yesim provides eSIM data plans for travelers, offering coverage in over 190 countries. The service includes features like a free VPN for iOS users and allows data sharing. eSIM profiles are single-use and cannot be reinstalled once deleted.
Key Features
- Coverage in over 190 countries
- Data-only plans with various options
- Activation via QR code
- Free VPN for iOS users
- Data sharing/tethering supported
- eSIM profiles are single-use; reinstallation not supported
- Refunds available within 30 days for unused plans
Pros
- Extensive global coverage
- Free VPN for iOS users
- Supports data sharing
- Refund policy available
Cons
- No voice or SMS services
- eSIM reinstallation not supported
Airalo
Airalo is a prominent eSIM provider offering affordable data plans in over 200 countries. With a user-friendly app and straightforward activation via QR code, it caters to travelers seeking cost-effective mobile data solutions. Airalo’s extensive coverage and flexible plans make it a popular choice.
Key Features
- Coverage in over 200 countries
- Data-only plans with various options
- Activation via QR code or manual setup
- Compatible with most eSIM-enabled devices
- Refunds considered on a case-by-case basis
Pros
- Extensive global coverage
- Affordable data plans
- User-friendly app
- Data Sharing is allowed
- Flexible plan options
Cons
- No voice or SMS services
- One-time activation only – cannot reinstall if deleted
Jetpac
Jetpac offers eSIM services with data plans across 96 countries. The service provides easy activation via QR code and supports data sharing. They give lounge access, student discounts, and more. Voice feature is also available in beta for iOS users.
Key Features
- Coverage in multiple countries
- Data-only plans with various durations
- Activation via QR code
- Data sharing/tethering supported
Pros
- Wide range of plan options
- Easy activation process
- Supports data sharing
- Voice support for iOS users in beta available.
Cons
- Roaming voice and SMS is not supported for everyone
- Only 96 Countries
- No Refund policy
Firsty
Firsty provides eSIM service in 160+ countries with free and paid data plans. The service offers easy activation via QR code and supports data sharing. Firsty allows eSIM reinstallation on the same device and offers a refund policy under specific conditions.
Key Features
- Coverage in multiple countries
- Free and paid data plans
- Activation via QR code
- Data sharing/tethering supported
- Refunds available under specific conditions|
Pros
- Flexible plan options
- Easy eSIM activation
- Supports data sharing
- Credit transfer allowed if eSIM resintalled on new device
Cons
- No voice or SMS
- Hotspot available on the higher plan
- eSIM reinstallation not allowed
Truphone (1Global)
Truphone offers eSIM services with global coverage, providing data-only plans suitable for travelers. The service allows for easy activation and management through the My Truphone app.
Key Features
- Coverage in multiple countries
- Data-only plans with various durations
- Activation via QR code
- eSIM reinstallation allowed through the My Truphone app
- Data sharing/tethering supported
- Refund policy not specified
Pros
- Global coverage
- Easy activation process
- eSIM reinstallation allowed
- Supports data sharing
Cons
- No voice or SMS services
- Refund policy not specified
GigSky
GigSky offers eSIM data plan with coverage in over 190 countries, including options for cruise ships and in-flight connectivity. The service provides a free 100 MB trial and supports data sharing. eSIM profiles are single-use and cannot be reinstalled once deleted.
Key Features
- Coverage in over 190 countries, including cruise and in-flight options
- Data plan with various durations
- Activation via QR code
- Free 100 MB trial available
- Data sharing/tethering supported
- eSIM profiles are single-use; reinstallation not supported
- Refund policy not specified
Pros
- Wide international coverage
- Free trial available
- Supports data sharing
Cons
- No voice or SMS services
- eSIM reinstallation not supported
- Refund policy not specified
BNESIM
BNESIM provides eSIM service with global coverage, offering data-only plans and support for voice and SMS through virtual numbers. The service allows eSIM reinstallation on the same device and offers a paid option for transferring to a new device.
Key Features
- Coverage in multiple countries
- Data-only plans with various options
- Activation via QR code
- Voice and SMS services available through virtual numbers
- eSIM reinstallation allowed on the same device
- eSIM transfer to a new device available for a €1 fee
- Refund policy not specified
Pros
- Global coverage
- Supports voice and SMS via virtual numbers
- eSIM reinstallation allowed
Cons
- eSIM transfer to a new device requires a fee
- Refund policy not specified
The Best eSIM Provider for You: Conclusion
Let’s face it—nothing kills the vibe of an international adventure faster than hunting for a local SIM card or getting hit with insane roaming charges.
We mentioned several eSIM service providers that offer seamless connectivity, repeat eSIM installation, fair usage policy, and high speed data.
But as you read, not all eSIMs are created equal. Some are perfect for data-hungry travelers, others shine with extra perks like VPNs or voice calls, and a few are ideal if you switch phones often. So, which one should you pick?
Let’s break it down.
The Best Travel eSIM for Every Style
The Globetrotter’s Choice: Holafly
Need unlimited data across 190+ countries without worrying about running out mid-trip? Holafly is your best bet. It’s like having an all-you-can-eat data buffet—perfect for remote workers, Instagram addicts, or anyone who streams on the go.
Budget Backpacker’s Pick: Saily or Airalo
Traveling on a shoestring? Saily and Airalo offer cheap, flexible plans with wide coverage. Saily even lets you reinstall your eSIM if you switch devices—handy if you’re juggling a phone and a backup burner.
Need Calls & Texts? Try aloSIM or BNESIM
Most eSIMs are data-only, but aloSIM throws in a free Hushed number for calls over Wi-Fi, while BNESIM offers virtual numbers (for a small fee). If you must make local calls, these are lifesavers.
The Phone-Switcher’s Friend: Ubigi or Flexiroam
If you’re the type who upgrades phones often or carries multiple devices, Ubigi lets you reinstall your eSIM up to five times. Flexiroam goes further with voice/SMS plans and even inflight data. Could this be the best eSIM?
The Luxury Traveler’s Perk: Jetpac
Who says travel tech can’t be glamorous? Jetpac throws in lounge access and student discounts—because why shouldn’t your eSIM come with a side of champagne?
Why an eSIM is the Smarter Choice
Beyond convenience, eSIMs are safer. Lose your phone? A physical SIM can be yanked out and used by thieves—but an eSIM stays locked to your account. Plus, no more hunting for SIM card vendors in foreign airports.
Still Unsure which is the best eSIM? Quick Recommendations:
- I just want cheap data everywhere. → Airalo
- I need unlimited data, no matter what. → Holafly
- I switch phones like socks. → Ubigi
- I want calls, texts, and data. → Flexirom
- I like free stuff and perks. → Jetpac or Yesim (free VPN!)
Ditch the Plastic, Go Digital
The best eSIM depends on how you travel—but one thing’s clear: physical SIMs are so 2015. Whether you’re a digital nomad, a vacationer, or just someone who hates roaming fees, there’s an eSIM option that fits you. Pick yours, activate in seconds, and never worry about reliable connectivity again.
Now go explore—your phone’s already ready.