6 Best International eSIM Cards in 2024

With an international eSIM, you can have Internet for travel minus the hefty roaming fees. In fact, presented with the extremely expensive roaming rates, I highly recommend getting a travel eSIM so you can get connected to the Internet, as well as make and get 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 trips around the world, we consistently rely on Holafly as they provide international eSIMs withunlimited data. Their digital SIM cards are accessible in over 130 nations, and at a relatively reasonable cost, though if you opt to purchase one, you can make the most of the 5% discount on Holafly.

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Of course, there are other options worth exploring, so if you’re uncertain about which internationaleSIM to buy, don’t worry. In this guide, I’ll discuss the 6 best international eSIMs, like their prices and data limits, as well as tips for installing and using your eSIM abroad.

What is an international eSIM?

An international digital SIM card allows mobile data access while touring abroad. It presents a simple, low-cost, and convenient way to get online in virtually any nation without having to pay for roaming. Additionally, some eSIMs feature minutes for making and receiving calls.

A device that enables digital SIM operation functions quite similar to a physical SIM card. The key variance is that an eSIM doesn`t necessitate insertion into an apparatus since setup transpires virtually. I clarify all of this in our guide on eSIM cards, thus I recommend examining that if you`re unfamiliar with digital SIMs.

What’s the difference between an international eSIM and an international SIM card?

The key distinction between an international eSIM and a traditional international SIM card relates to their format. An eSIM uses a digital format where the installation takes place by scanning a QR code, whereas a SIM card utilizes a physical format requiring manual insertion into your device’s SIM card slot.

In the case of physical SIM cards, only one card can be inserted at a time, possibly two if the device features a dual slot design. Meanwhile, a phone compatible with eSIM technology can have several cards installed simultaneously, such as a personal eSIM, a work eSIM and more.

Another significant difference is that, owing to its structure, . This doesn`t occur with physical SIMs, which are compatible with older phones. However, a number of newer phone models may not have a SIM card slot. You can check if your device has eSIM technology here.

Regardless of whether you opt to purchase an international eSIM or a physical SIM card, you ought to ensurethatyourdevice is unlocked. Otherwise, you won’t be able to install the card at all.

Despite the differences highlighted, you will have the ability to access mobile data when traveling abroad through obtaining an international SIM card or an eSIM. In some scenarios, you may also have the capability to make and receive phone calls. That being said, this guide focuses on the best eSIM options for international travel, so I will share the top selections and compare their pricing shortly. Before doing so, here is a table comparing eSIMs and physical SIM cards to provide a better understanding of their variations:

If your device doesn’t support a digital SIM card, I suggest exploring SimOptions, which provides some of the top international SIM cards available.

Price of an international eSIM

The cost of an international virtual SIM card fluctuates depending on the provider, your destination, the period of your trip, and how many GB of data you desire. To offer a improved understanding, I’ve assessed the 6 prime international virtual SIMs in this guide, as you can see in the chart below.

For this comparison, I modeled the search for Japanese SIM cards,SIM cards for Europe,Mexican SIM cards, and SIM cards for Canada.

As demonstrated, Holafly is the sole company offering international eSIM cards with unlimited data at all destinations, which explains its priority recommendation. While the eSIM itself is more expensive, it is worthwhile to have unlimited data for our complete trip.

Naturally, it depends completely on how much data you need. If you intend to upload content to social networking sites or do some remote work, then I propose getting the international eSIM from Holafly. If you think you`ll simply be using the internet occasionally, then SimOptions and Airalo provide the most affordable internationaleSIMs.

Best eSIMs for international travel

If you remain unsure of the best eSIM for global travel, here are six great options to consider. Below are details about each to help identify the most suitable one based on your trip goals and data needs.

1. Holafly, the best international eSIM with unlimited data

First, Holafly is the bestinternational eSIM if you similar to us 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 boundaries.

All of Holafly`s plans (besides the card for Europe), deal solely with providing access to data connections. However, this is not an issue since apps like Skype and WhatsApp allow users to engage in voice and video calls. And since most plans include limitless data usage, users do not have to be concerned about exhausting their data allotment on those data-intensive apps. It`s important to note that Holafly does not permit sharing data connections, so every traveler needs their own eSIM if they want to get online.

Depending on your destination, you can find international eSIM plans for durations of 5 to 90 days, so I’m certain 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 reassurance, particularly 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 full Holafly review for more information about this eSIM option. If you decide to obtain it for yourself, remember to take advantage of the 5% Holafly discount.

2. SimOptions, another international eSIM or physical SIM for travel

SimOptions is another great selection if you’re looking for an inexpensive international digital subscriber identity card. Not only does SimOptions offer eSIMs, but it also has physical cards, so you can get a traditional SIM if your device isn’t compatible with a digital one.

Regarding their international eSIMs for travel, SimOptions does not permit making or receiving calls. Bear that in mind, particularly if you plan to use different apps for calls, as the data will deplete quickly.

On the other hand, SimOptions does permit data sharing, which can be convenient but also a quicker way to utilize all of your data.

It depends on where you travel, but SimOptions’ emphatically highlighted international eSIM data plans typically offer 10 GB or 20 GB, which is pretty generous. This makes SimOptions a good choice to Airalo, but I recommend comparing the two before you make your final choice.

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3. Airalo, a good international eSIM for travel abroad

Another quality international eSIM is provided by Airalo. Like Holafly, this company only offers digital cards, so you’ll need to ensure your device is compatible with eSIMs.

Airalo offers some of the most affordable international eSIMs on the market, with plan lengths of 7, 15, or 30 days depending on the destination. However, the plans feature limited data, and the amounts are quite low, which accounts for the low prices.

Another thing worth thought is that the travel eSIMs from Airalo are for data alone, so if you plan to employ an app like Skype to place calls, you’ll end up running through data rather promptly. Then, you’ll must purchase another eSIM, which will end up costing you more. In my situation, I prefer spending a little extra upfront for the Holafly eSIM, which provides unlimited data.

While Airalo allows sharing data across multiple devices, this means the allotted data will be consumed more quickly. It is advisable to calculate expected data usage before purchasing to ensure it will satisfy requirements.

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4. Knowroaming, an international eSIM for any type of travel

If you’re seeking to avoid international roaming with an eSIM, then Knowroaming is one option worth considering. However, be aware that all of the eSIMs from this company have limited data, and in some instances, the price per GB is rather high compared to other alternatives.

Moreover, contingent on your destination, you may not have the option to procure an international eSIM through Knowroaming, so it’s not the most convenient choice.

Given the drawbacks mentioned, I believe choosing Holafly,SimOptions, or Airalo is preferable instead.

Here, within clickable text formatted as a button, is a link to order a KnowRoaming eSIM for international travel

5. KeepGo, another site where you can buy an international eSIM

You could also opt for an international eSIM through KeepGo. This provider allows you to pay upfront for a set amount of data, like 1 GB, and use it over the period of a year while traveling within a specific country. So it offers flexibility if you only need a limited data plan regardless of when exactly you take your trip.

This can be a very practical option, although when I compared it to the other international eSIMs in this guide, it was more expensive.

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6. YeSIM, another option if you’re looking for an international eSIM

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While YeSIM provides a range of international eSIMs for different nations, it’s not my first choice, particularly given the higher costs and lower data amounts.

What is the best international eSIM on the market?

For stress-free travel, the best digital SIM for global voyaging is from Holafly.

With just a few exceptions, every one of the international eSIM plans with Holafly have unlimited data, so you can utilize your mobile device as much as you desire. While the Holafly plans don’t involve minutes to make or get calls, you can employ apps like Skype and WhatsApp. And since you’ll have unlimited data, it’s acceptable if these apps consume a lot of mobile data. Plus, Holafly has 24/7 customer support, so you can solve any issues quickly.

If you want an alternate choice, I recommend SimOptions, which provides physical SIMs and eSIMs for traveling overseas. While these eSIMs have minimal data, the price per GB is more affordable than most other companies. Like Holafly, SimOptions has 24/7 client assistance, so you can promptly and readily handle any inquiries or issues.

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How much data should an international eSIM have?

If you’re uncertain how muchinformation a global eSIM should contain, examine the chart below. It’ll offer a improved idea of the quantity of data distinct applications employ. This way, you can anticipate how much data you’ll want your international eSIM plan to incorporate.

Bear in mind that these quantities are approximated, as some programs consume network access even while operating behind the scenes.

You’ll observe that calls and video calls use more data. So, if you need an internationaleSIM card for basic things like employing Google Maps and Google search, then a card with limited data, like the ones from SimOptions, may be quite satisfactory. On the other hand, if you plan to make calls or spend a lot of time on social media, I suggest an international eSIM with unlimited data, like the ones from Holafly.

Also, if you’re going to purchase a prepaid international eSIM with restricted data, I recommend establishing a daily usage limit for yourself. This approach will give you better control over how much data you consume. You can also benefit from 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 plan to visit several nations during your travels abroad, you have a few choices. You can purchase an international eSIM for every country you intend to visit, or you can obtain a global or multi-country eSIM. This type of eSIM functions in virtually every nation, though they are not accessible with all carriers. Of the possibilities I mentioned in this guide, Holafly,Airalo and Knowroaming provide multi-country cards.

Multi-country eSIM from Holafly, an international eSIM card that works globally

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Furthermore, Holafly offers the most comprehensive international wireless plans with unlimited data everywhere aside from the Caribbean region.

Airalo global card, an international eSIM with worldwide coverage

Airalo also has a global eSIM that works for nearly every country in the world. So, if you know you’re going to journey around the globe and move between different countries, this card will ensure that you have mobile data while you travel.

Before obtaining the international eSIM from Airalo, keep in mind that it has restricted data. You should consider how much data you’ll use during your trip, since it may be more cost-effective 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.

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Knowroaming global card, another international eSIM you can use in multiple countries

The international digital SIM 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 an extended 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.

How to install an international eSIM, step-by-step

Activating an internationaleSIM for travel is quite simple, regardless of whether you have an Android or iPhone device. All that needs to be done is scanning the QR code that will be sent to your email immediately after purchasing the card.

The installation method for Android and iPhone devices differs slightly, so I will outline step-by-step guidance for each:

Activating an international eSIM on an Android device

For Android device owners, follow these steps to set up your travel digital SIM card:

1. Access Settings and select Connections then SIM Manager then Add SIM to include an additional SIM card.
2. Scan the printed or downloaded QR code, which should be available on another device.
3. Follow the instructions and steps that will show on screen.
4. Open Settings again and click Connections > SIM Manager.
5. In preferred SIM, click on Mobile data and select the eSIM you want to activate.

Activating an international eSIM on an iPhone

On the off chance that you’re utilizing iOS, here’s how to add an across the board eSIM on iPhone:

1. Navigate to Settings, select Mobile network, and pick Add data plan.
2. Scan the printed or downloaded QR code, which should be available on another device.
3. Follow the instructions and steps that will show on screen.
4. Open Settings once more and click Configuration > Portable system.
5. Select the eSIM you wish to utilize.

As you can observe, the set up process is quick and straightforward, so you shouldn`t encounter any issues. In the case of Holafly, you can contact customer support 24/7 if you experience any difficulties during or after installing your eSIM.

Checking your phone’s compatibility with an international eSIM

Before purchasing an international eSIM, ensure your phone is compatible with this type of card. This technology is relatively new, so while all the newer phone models can use it, some older devices may not be able to use an eSIM.

To provide some context, an eSIM derives its name from “Embedded SIM,” meaning it`s an integrated SIM. Only phones and devices that already have a built-in SIM will be suitable for global eSIMs from companies such as Holafly.

You can examine the specs of your phone to ascertain if it’s compatible with a worldwide digital SIM card. We also have a guide on how digital SIM cards function, in which we include a full listing of smartphones that support this technology.

Advantages & disadvantages of using an international eSIM for travel

A travel digital SIM card has advantages and disadvantages, so it is important to compare them and determine whether the benefits outweigh the downsides:

After analyzing both the advantages and disadvantages, it’s clear that there are more benefits of an international eSIM than drawbacks. If your device is compatible, I highly recommend getting an eSIM for travel.

Alternatives to using an international eSIM abroad

If your device is incompatible with an international eSIM or you think this option may not be suitable, don`t worry as there are alternative ways to stay connected while traveling:

International SIM card, a physical card for getting Internet abroad

An international SIM represents a physical SIM card and the perfect option if a international eSIM isn’t compatible with your device. The physical card works in the same manner that a digital card does, and you can even find both types of cards with companies like SimOptions.

Just as you would with a digital SIM card for international travel, you’ll have to choose a physical SIM that works in the specific country you’re traveling to. Be sure to pick the right duration and data quantity to match your travel dates.

After purchasing your physical SIM card, you will receive it by mail at the location you specify as your delivery address, at which point you simply insert it into your device. I suggest ordering your card in advance so you receive it on time, as it usually takes several business days to arrive.

Obviously, another choice is to purchase a local SIM card at your destination. However, I don’t advise this method because you’ll end up spending worthwhile vacation time exploring various options and searching for the best deal.

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Portable Wi-Fi, another way to avoid roaming charges while traveling

If you require Internet on multiple devices as well as a stable connection for work or study, then consider a portable Wi-Fi device. This option has the additional benefit of fast Internet speeds, making it ideal for digital nomads like us.

We have been using the router known as Skyroam Solis for a decent period of time now. It does not require a SIM card; instead, it utilizes an international eSIM that provides 4G LTE coverage in over 130 nations. If you have an interest, be sure to check out the diverse data plans on Solis’ official website.

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. Naturally, 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.

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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.

Additionally, these types of networks tend to be unstable and slow since many individuals are connected simultaneously, and there are questions regarding security and privacy. In spite of these disadvantages, it can be a good option if you need to quickly access the Web to check email or look something up.

Additional details about accessing the internet while traveling can be found in our guide on getting online on the road.

Roaming, another way to use the Internet abroad (not recommended)

Ultimately, you can bypass the international eSIM and compensate for roaming rather. I don’t advise this choice, as the expenses for roaming while abroad are extremely costly, unless your telephone provider presents a unique rate.

That being said, most companies charge significantly for roaming access. For instance, the majority of wireless providers bill $10 per day if you utilize their roaming services. Each company differs, and it does depend on where you travel, but it`s easy to see how the expenses can really add up. In my opinion, it’s much wiser to purchase an international eSIM card so you can avoid surprises on your phone statement.

FAQs – International eSIM cards

Now you know the essence of an international eSIM and how it works, but if you still have doubts, here are the answers to some common questions:

And with that, the key aspects of an international eSIM and how it functions have been outlined. I trust this information will allow you to stay connected without issues during future trips. Please feel free to leave a comment below if you have any other questions – I`m happy to help in any way I can. Additionally, I`d welcome hearing about your experience using an international data eSIM abroad.

Now, enjoy your excursion!