Slash your expenses on global data connections with these top 6 eSIM options for globetrotters
Whatcha Need 'Round the Globe: Your International Travel eSIM Guide
Kickstart Your Jetset Life with These Top-Notch eSIMs
Whether you're a digital nomad or a short-term globe-trotter, having a reliable and affordable data connection is crucial for staying connected, navigating unfamiliar territories, and sharing memories with loved ones back home. Enter eSims – digital SIM cards that let you ditch the old-school physical SIM and enjoy seamless connectivity while packing light.
In this blog post, we've rounded up the top eSim providers to help you make the most of your international adventures. Below, you'll find our top picks for your next travel escapade. Don't forget to take a look at the bonus section for some expert insights on how to choose the right eSim provider for you.
The Globe-Trotter's Getaway Picks
Saily – The Budget Savvy Traveler
- Eco-friendly, secure, and easy-on-the-wallet
- Global data plans available in over 200 countries
- Includes data-saving features, VPN, and app blockers
- Great for budget-conscious travelers and short stays
Airalo – The Worldwide Wanderer
- Covering over 190 countries with ease
- Variety of local and global eSim data plans
- Famous for its simple setup and dependable connections
- Ideal for wide-ranging trips
Breeze – The Impervious Explorer
- A flexible and diverse eSim option for over 190 countries
- Combines fixed data plans (1-50GB) and unlimited data options
- Plans cater to different trip lengths with durations ranging from 1-30 days
- Perfect for travelers seeking customizable data quantities and durations
AloSIM – The Effortless Escapades
- Known for its swift and effortless setup
- Provides regional and global coverage
- Designed with user-friendly convenience in mind
- Great for hassle-free communication during your getaway
FlexiRoam – The Networked Nomads
- Enables data sharing across different devices or users
- Covers the globe with a focus on elite network partnerships
- Ideal for families, groups, or coworkers looking to share data costs
GigSky – The Seafarer's Solution
- Specializes in maritime connectivity for cruises and international roaming
- Tailors data plans to suit the demands of cruise vacationers
- Made for enjoyable and worry-free travel experiences at sea
Holafly – The Heavy Data Users
- Offering unlimited data plans for heavy internet usage
- A great choice for travelers who depend heavily on their devices
- Suitable for those who require constant access to online resources while traveling
Ubigi – The Flexible Frequent Traveler
- Provides pay-as-you-go plans without long-term commitments
- Aims to cover multiple countries and regions worldwide
- Ideal for travelers who prefer flexible data spending
Maaltalk – The Tech-Savvy Globetrotter
- Offers a global reach without SIM swaps
- Features in-app voice calling, AI-powered assistance (MaaltalkNow), and zero speed throttling after data limits
- Designed to deliver a seamless and user-friendly travel experience
Bonus: Expert Insights on Choosing the Right eSIM
To help you make an informed decision, we consulted with tech experts Avi Greengart, president and lead analyst at Techsponential, and Anshel Sag, vice president and principal analyst at Moor Insights & Strategy, to provide their professional insights.
Navigating the world of eSims can be challenging, but these experts offer valuable advice for selecting the perfect eSim for your next adventure:
- Overestimate your data usage: Avi Greengart suggests estimating your data usage on the higher side to avoid any surprises and ensure uninterrupted connectivity. Inaccuracies can be easily rectified by purchasing additional data if necessary.
- Focus on price per GB: Anshel Sag emphasizes the importance of considering price per gigabyte of data and tailoring your eSim plan to suit your own personal data use and travel duration.
- Keep coverage and network quality in mind: Greengart points out that eSim support may differ from eSim roaming, and some carriers may not offer 5G or may have speed restrictions. Be aware of these differences to avoid any frustrating disruptions during your travels.
- Prioritize eSims that allow you to retain your phone number: According to Greengart, many eSim providers let you keep your own phone number—if that's important to you, be sure to choose a provider that offers that option.
With this insider knowledge, you'll be well-equipped to find the perfect eSim for your next travel adventure—be it a European escapade, a Pacific escapade, or a far-flung exploration. Happy traveling!
Sources
[1] Airalo eSIM Review: The Most Popular eSIM Provider (digitaltrends.com)
[2] Reviewed: The Best eSIM for Travel: A Comparison of Airalo, Holafly, and EYU (wordpress.com)
[3] SIM Options: Cheap and Easy International Travel Data (headforpoints.com)
[4] Best eSIM Providers for Travelers: Compare the Best Options for Staying Connected on the Go (infinitesmile.com)
[5] ESIM FAQs – What you need to know (t-mobile.com)
[6] eSIM Guide – What, why, and how (androidcentral.com)
[7] What is an eSIM (Embedded SIM)? How Does it Work? – eSIM Guide (cellphonetricks.org)
[8] Mastering the eSIM (Embedded SIM) (howtogeek.com)
[9] eSIM vs SIM cards: What's the difference and what are the benefits? (itpro.co.uk)
When preparing for your international travels, don't forget to bring the latest gadgets like smartphones and consider the importance of technology in your lifestyle. With a reliable eSIM, such as those from Saily, Airalo, Breeze, AloSIM, FlexiRoam, GigSky, Holafly, Ubigi, Maaltalk, you can stay connected, share travel experiences, and navigate unfamiliar territories with ease. Additionally, following expert insights, focus on overestimating your data usage, considering price per GB, prioritizing eSIMs that allow you to retain your phone number, and keeping coverage and network quality in mind to ensure a seamless travel experience.
