best europe travel esim

Best eSIMs for travel of 2024

These eSIMs are easy to install and provide excellent network coverage

Best eSIM overall

• Best for customizable plans
• Best for easy installation
• Best value for money
• Best for security
• Best for network coverage
• Best for unlimited data
• Best for global plans
• Best for Europe
• Best for data-only plans
• eSIMs for international travel FAQs

1. Best eSIM overall 2. Best eSIM for customizable plans 3. Best eSIM for easy installation 4. Best eSIM for value for money 5. Best eSIM for security   6. Best eSIM for network coverage  7. Best eSIM for unlimited data 8. Best eSIM for global plans 9. Best eSIM for Europe   10. Best eSIM for data-only plans 11. eSIMs for international travel FAQs

eSIMs have gained a lot of traction in recent years, especially in international travel. Admit it, you do not like getting into huge queues to buy an eSIM just after you’ve landed at your dream location. You can now skip the queue with the best eSIM for international travel, with plans ranging from 3 days to as long as a year.

These eSIMs are easy to install and provide excellent network coverage. However, with so many providers offering eSIMs, which one should you purchase? I have done the hard yards to find and review the best eSIM you can get for international travel, regardless of whether you want to travel to Europe, the USA, Asia, Africa or Australia. So, make sure you read till the end to know everything you could ever need before purchasing your next eSIM.

What is an eSIM?  

Why you can trust TechRadar We spend hours testing every product or service we review, so you can be sure you’re buying the best. Find out more about how we test.

eSIM cards are digital SIM cards already embedded in the mobile device, eliminating the need for physical SIM cards. It is a small rewritable chip fixed inside your phone, which connects with an antenna to function as a SIM card. The antenna is nothing but a network selected by you. 

Since it is rewritable, you can change your operator with just a simple phone call. There’s no need to go through the hassle of purchasing a new SIM card and waiting for it to arrive in the mail. 

Actually, eSIMs have been around for quite some time now. You can find many devices that are compatible with eSIMs. But when iPhone decided to remove the good old SIM card slot and shift the device to being completely eSIM featured, this feature got its attention. The main reason eSIMs are being preferred is because of their ease of use and convenience. 

Another advantage of eSIM is that it saves space accommodated by the SIM card holder, leading to either smaller phones or larger batteries, both of which are interesting propositions. Not to mention, the enormous amount of plastic being used to make all these SIM cards will no longer be required. 

eSIMs could be pretty revolutionary as they can be used to enable 5G connectivity in almost anything we would want it to, preferably glasses or a fitness tracker, as it doesn’t take up as much space inside the device.  

While there’s no major difference between using an eSIM card and a physical SIM card, eSIMs could be a slight turnoff when you want to switch phones. That said, the benefits of eSIM certainly outweigh a few cons here and there.

Why should I get an eSIM for international travel?  

Now that we know what an eSIM is, let’s dive into why it’s so beneficial for international travel. The best thing about them is that you can store as many as eight (sometimes even more) on your phone and activate the SIM when needed without having to pay additional roaming charges. 

Of course, if your current network operator provides free roaming service, there's no need to consider a travel-specific or local SIM from the place you're traveling to. But if that's not the case, it can be quite a task to find the right operator and negotiate with language barriers.

eSIMs are also generally more secure than physical SIMs since there’s no need to remove them in case you want to change your SIM card, so they practically can’t get lost. And if your phone gets lost or stolen, tracking it through the eSIM card is much easier since it cannot be removed from the device. 

Note that international roaming works the same way on physical and eSIMS. The only difference that sets the two apart is that while you can add only two physical SIMs at a time, you can conveniently purchase an eSIM from a local carrier of the place you are visiting without losing your old numbers. This is especially handy when you are visiting multiple countries. 

With eSIMs, switching SIMs is as easy as purchasing a plan online and activating it after completing the payment. If you travel frequently for business or any other purpose, switching contact numbers could be quite a frequent task. With eSIMs, you can shuffle between SIM cards as soon as you enter the airport or right when you leave the country.

Is my phone compatible with eSIM?  

Most phones manufactured after 2018 are compatible with eSIMs, except for a few exceptions depending on the location and carrier. IPhone XS, XS Max, and XR are among the first eSIM-compatible iPhones that came out in 2018. 

Follow these steps to see if your iOS is eSIM compatible and carrier unlocked:

• Go to Settings > General > About
• Scroll down to find the Carrier Lock section
• If your device is unlocked, it will show "No SIM restrictions" If that's not the case, you need to unlock your device first. 
• If you have an iOS 15 or later, Scroll down to "Available SIM" and if you have earlier iOS versions, find "Digital SIM"
• If your phone supports eSIMs, it will show a 15-digit IMEI number 

The following are the latest models that support eSIM: 

• iPhone 12 Pro
• iPhone 12 Mini
• iPhone 12 Pro Max
• iPhone 13 Pro
• iPhone 13 Mini
• iPhone 13 Pro Max
• iPhone SE 3 (2022)
• iPhone 14 Pro
• iPhone 14 Plus
• iPhone 14 Pro Max

You can also use eSIMs on the following iPads: 

• iPad Pro 11″ (model A2068 onwards)
• iPad Air (model A2123 onwards)
• iPad Pro 12.9″ (model A2069 onwards)
• iPad (model A2198 onwards)
• IPad 10th generación (2022)
• iPad Mini (model A2124 onwards)

For Android numbers, it is best to check with the manufacturer if your device is compatible with eSIM. This, too, depends on the model, place of manufacturing, and the carrier used for the Android device.  

Another way to check is by going to the settings > Network & Internet and tapping on the "eSIM cards". If you find a "Download a SIM instead?" option, your device is eSIM-compatible 

You can also check if your phone has an EID (Embedded Identity Document Number), which is the serial number that matches with the eSIM embedded in your device. 

• Dial *#06# and press call
• If your device is eSIM-compatible, you'll be able to view your EID number

Some popular Android phones that support eSIMs include: 

• Samsung Galaxy S21 models
• Samsung Galaxy S22 models
• Samsung Galaxy Note 20
• Samsung Galaxy Fold Series
• Samsung Galaxy Z Flip Series
• Samsung Galaxy S23 models
• Google Pixel 7
• Google Pixel 6
• Google Pixel 4
• Google Pixel Fold
• Google Pixel 3 XL
• Huawei P40 Series
• Oppo Reno 5A
• Oppo Find X5
• Sony Xperia 1 V
• Xiaomi 13 Series
• Sony Xperia 10 III Lite
• Motorola Edge+
• Motorola Razr 2019

Note that this isn’t an exhaustive list — it’s only an indicative list of popular smartphones that support eSIMs. In case you do not find your phone year, check with your manufacturer. 

Reader Offer: 5% off for Techradar readers Techradar editors love AloSIM's prepaid data SIM for its transparency, auto-installation feature, and affordable price.  Techradar readers can save 5% off  with code TECHRADAR5. 

Preferred partner ( What does this mean? ) 

Top 10 eSIM providers for international travel 

Our expert review:

Specifications

Reasons to buy, reasons to avoid.

Airhub is a huge online store from which you can buy eSIMs in over 190+ countries worldwide. It has a massive variety of eSIM plans that include data, local call minutes, SMS, and international call minutes. 

While most eSIM providers usually have around 3-5 plans per country, Airhub provides up to 15 plans to choose from for a single country which gives you the flexibility to select the plan that resonates best with your needs. Also, Airhub has truly managed to make some of the best partnerships with local companies to offer the cost-effective deal that it does. 

If you're going to hang in a country for multiple months, you can simply go for the monthly subscriptions. Some of these plans also include unlimited voice minutes and SMS - you truly get the best deal here. 

The majority of plans that you will find on the website are prepaid, with a few postpaid plans and a postpaid monthly subscription in a few countries, the most important one being the United States. However, it doesn't have strong coverage in Latin America. For example, I found them offering only a single plan in countries like Brazil, Argentina, and Mexico. Moreover, there are no plans for countries like Cuba, Chile, Paraguay, Uruguay, and Ecuador. 

The regional plans offer an attractive price proposition as well, with options available in APAC, Africa, North America, the Middle East, and Europe. We highly recommend the Europe plan if you're about to go on a Europe tour. Airhub covers up to 49 countries in the plans, with the plans starting at just $11 for a month with a 3GB data limit. We could also spot a few 1-year plans in Europe ranging from 10GB to 100GB for the year.  

When you open the Airhub app, there's not a lot going on like most other eSIM apps — the interface is clean and intuitive. After logging in, you will find a page that lets you select the country, with three tabs differentiating local eSIMs, regional eSIMs, and Monthly plans (note that the global package is included in the regional eSIM category). 

Concluding, Airhub stands out with its great plans, minimalist apps, and websites and ticks all the boxes of travelers and remote workers looking for an affordable and effective eSIM. 

Best eSIM for customizable plans

Airalo is easily one of the best eSIM providers for travelers looking for an affordable and reliable SIM card, which plans in more than 200 countries. The stand-out thing about Airalo is its great collaborations with local telco companies all over the world which makes it the cost leader that it is today. 

Keep in mind that this also means the cost of Airalo depends on the place you're traveling to, and the cost of data there — validity and data limit being the other two factors that affect its price.

It also offers 7 regional plans, including Latin America and Caribbean Islands — regions that aren’t well catered by other eSIM providers.

It also has a specific global plan that provides access to around 84 countries worldwide — perfect for international travelers. You can choose between 1GB to 20GB of data spread across 7 days to 180 days validity. 

To buy the eSIM, you simply have to go to the app, create an account, choose the place you are traveling to, the package of your choice, and then install the eSIM. After that, you’ll need to follow a simple eSIM activation procedure, and that’s it. The payment can be made through a credit card or Apple Pay. 

One major thing to look out for getting an Airalo eSIM is that most of them don't offer voice minutes — there's only a data plan. So if you're someone who makes a lot of voice calls throughout the day, you might want to look out for an alternative here. That said, you can always communicate via Internet calls when needed. 

Airalo has a loyalty feature where you get credit every time you purchase data from the service provider. Initially, you get a 5% Airalo credit for every purchase, which keeps increasing as you collect more and more credit. So, initially, if you spend $20 on a package, you get a $1 credit that you can use for future purchases. 

Best eSIM for easy installation

AloSIM is a Canada-based tech company that offers great prepaid data SIMs at affordable prices. One innovative feature of the app is its AloSIM data calculator that helps you find the estimated data that you will require depending on the things you use your internet for on a daily, weekly, and monthly basis. Once you have decided on the amount of data you need, you can head over to the eSIM area and select a plan to your liking.

The reason why this is so great is because it bears testimony to the brand's transparency and genuineness. Being able to calculate your daily requirements won't let you overspend on something you don't need. 

Another thing I love about AloSIM is that you get to see which partnering networks you're gonna be connected with before you purchase any package so that you can assure that you are connected to a reliable network. You can also check the speed availability in the region (3G, 4G, 5G, or LTE). This is something most eSIM providers do not offer.

Installing the eSIM is also easy with AloSIM. There are three ways in which you can do that:

1. Automatic installation — if you want to start using your plan straight away, you should go with this option. 

2. Scanning QR code — this option is available in almost all eSIM providers — you just have to scan the QR code to activate your network. 

3. Manual installation — You will have to go through a step-by-step instruction manual to adjust your settings and activate your eSIM. 

The prices at AloSIM are among the most reasonable I’ve seen. You can get the 5 GB for 30 days plan for as low as $16 in the US. That's a lot of difference compared to the plan your home SIM can provide you. Plus, data sharing is supported, so you can use your personal hotspot to connect to other devices or let a friend free ride with you. AloSIM also offers as many as 11 regional plans — one of the highest on our list. 

However, I couldn’t spot a regional plan for Africa or an extensive Asian plan. The Asian regional plan covers just five countries in Southeast Asia. Thus, it isn’t a great option if you’re traveling East.

Just like every data-only eSIM, you will not get a phone number with AloSIM. Also, there's no unlimited plan for you to rely on if you're a data junkie. Overall, AloSIM stands out with its transparency, auto-installation feature, and affordable price. 

Best eSIM for value for money

Nomad eSIM is a great option if you’re on short trips and need a travel eSIM that doesn't cost you a fortune. It is well-known for its short-duration plans of 7 and 15 days. Its offerings are divided into regional plans and individual country plans. 

You can also purchase an unlimited data plan in selected individual countries, such as the UK, something that isn’t available with regional plans. With Nomad, you can purchase one GB of data for as low as $1.30 (in Asia and the Americas).

It has an incredible value proposition in North America, Asia, and Europe. However, when it comes to Latin America, you can definitely find cheaper options. For example, 1GB of data with a 7-day validity costs $9 on Nomad. However, the same plan is available at $6.5 on Airalo, with both of them covering the same three counties —Canada, USA, and Mexico,

What we love about this provider is that it doesn't charge you any one-time connection fee or even a fee for the SIM card itself. There's no hidden cost, and you don't have to worry about enormous roaming costs as well. Just pay for the upfront amount of the package, and you’re good to go.

There are eight regional plans - APAC, Nordic, Europe, SEA - Oceania, Global, North America, Africa, and Middle East. Regional plans allow you to buy the plan once and use it in a specific group of countries - no need to buy a new eSIM for every country you travel to. For example, if you’re visiting France, Germany, and Italy, simply get the Europe regional plan. You’ll not need to buy a separate eSIM in each country.

The global plan is decent, with an option to purchase a global e-Sim for either 110 countries or 140 countries. The 110-country plan starts at $25/GB (validity of 7 days), while the 140-country plan starts at $19/GB for the same validity period.

Recently, Nomad added an SMS plan available in selected countries like Canada, the United States, and the UK. I found the plan to be pretty reasonable, too, starting at 100 texts for $4. 

What's more, Nomad has one of the most user-friendly apps. You can easily find all the plans, and the interface is very clean. You can also track your data usage on the go and add more data if you seem to be outrunning your current limit. 

If you're not an expert at understanding chunky instructions, you'll love its setup process that takes you through the app step by step and even includes pictures to clearly illustrate what you need to do. 

If there's still something you need help understanding, there's built-in 24/7 message support, and the response time is quick and reliable. It doesn't have a live chat feature like most of the peers.

Concluding, Nomad is a solid option for frequent travelers with its short-term packages at affordable prices and easy-to-set-up interface. With the commendable user-friendliness of this provider’s app and reliable customer support, it’s one of the best travel eSIMs. 

Best eSIM for security

5. Instabridge

Instabridge has been around for a while, and its eSIM services are truly one to consider if you are looking for a safe and seamless internet connection. This is especially recommended if you're going to stay in one place for a long time — you can find plans that last up to a year.

It is the #1 app on iPhone for global internet access, and with access to more than 190 countries and over 200 million app downloads, you can guess that it's a hot pick among travelers.  However, you do not get any call minutes or SMS facility with Instabridge’s eSIM. Thus, you’ve to rely on Internet-based voice calls and texts — certainly not a deal-breaker.

If you are tight on budget but want to purchase a plan, you can score mobile data packages by watching ads on the app. The collection won't be too grand, of course, but it'll get you a decent data pack if you spend your free time on the app. 

The app in itself is pretty modern and intuitive. You can simply select the country you’re traveling to and choose the amount of data you need. Next, select the duration — one-time, monthly, or yearly. You’re done — simply make the payment and enjoy your internet.

Note that the website on the desktop version doesn't show all the local plans, so it's important to check the plans on the app if you don't find a suitable plan for you. You can pick between subscriptions and one-off plans depending on your needs. The website typically doesn’t show data plans for more than 30 days.

Customer support isn't always the fastest — it can take a few hours to get a reply if you're stuck in the middle of something. But you can look out for the FAQs and manuals to help you out, and the app is easy to use, too. So there are chances that you might not even need customer support.  

You can purchase multiple plans with the same eSIM, so there's no need to collect a hefty number of eSIMs if you're traveling to multiple places. For example, if you're going to visit USA, Germany, and France over the holidays, you can just purchase a plan for each of these places and track the data usage of each of these packages through the app. 

Instabridge has a strong commitment to bringing the internet to everyone. For the same, it has decided to give away 1GB of data to someone in a developing nation for every 1 GB of data you purchase.

Concluding, Instabridge is a solid provider of data-only plans, a must-have for users who value security over anything.

Best eSIM for network coverage

BNESIM offers mobile data contracts in over 170 countries —greater than most providers in our list, like Nomad. You can rest assured that no matter which country you are traveling to, you will definitely find a plan or more with BNESIM. 

Where this provider wins against the competition is its “pay-as-you-go” plans. These are plans with no expiration date. For example, if you purchase the 1GB USA data plan for $6.73, you can use the plan as long as you do not exhaust the entire data without any time restriction. This is particularly helpful for users that use minimal data and end up wasting their data by the end of the plan. 

What I like about BNESIM is its diverse regional plans. It currently offers Regional plans in Asia, Europe, North America, South America, Oceania, Middle East, and Africa. Apart from this, there are two unlimited data regional plans - something other providers don’t offer. 

1. BNESIM Infinity Europe

2. BNESIM Infinity Asia

For example, the Infinity Aisa plan covers 28 countries with options to purchase one-time, daily, and monthly plans. I found the “Daily Plan’ really useful in the modern data usage context. It offers a certain data limit for each day of the plan. For example, the 1GB daily data Asia plan costs just $8.85 — a steal, in my opinion.

I also found an extensive “Support” section on its website with guides on installing eSIMs on various devices, such as iPhone, iPad, and Android phones. Each of these guides includes pictures that make your job easier. Just like Airalo, BNESIM also partners with local networks to provide reliable bandwidth, which makes the network stronger in some areas.

However, if you’re looking for a longer-duration plan, BNESIM doesn’t get the job done. With a maximum validity of 30 days, their plans primarily focus on short-duration plans. Another weird thing about BNESIM is its “auto-renewal” feature — your plan will be auto-renewed at the end of the term. You’ll have to cancel the plan manually on its website or app.

All in all, BNESIM is an ideal choice for travelers looking for a flexible and cost-effective global roaming solution for frequent travel. 

Best eSIM for unlimited data

Holafly eSIM cards are among the few options offering unlimited data plans — you can send as many videos and photos with your family without worrying about the data limit. In the few countries that it doesn't give unlimited data, it offers higher data limits than most other providers. 

In terms of duration, too, there's great flexibility. You can get plans that last 5, 10, 15, 20, 60, and 90 days. In short, there will always be a plan close to the number of days you're traveling for in about 160 countries that Holafly caters to.

On the price front, Holafly is a little high-end, but it's worth the unlimited data and stress-free traveling it offers. For example, its 5-day unlimited data plan for the USA costs $19. It also offers regional plans. However, I found it tough to locate these plans on its website, as there’s no dedicated “Regional Plans” section as in some other websites like Nomad and Airhub.

Brands like Airalo are significantly cheaper than Holafly, but you will have to get top-up plans if you exhaust your data mid-journey, which can be troublesome if you travel alone and don't have anyone to provide you hotspot in the meanwhile. 

Installing the eSIM is also a breeze with Holafly. Simply scan the QR code you receive after purchasing a plan and follow the prompts. You will be guided through each step of the process, and the payment can be made through various portals like a credit card, debit card, PayPal, Google Pay, or Apple Pay. You can also use a code for manual installation if you don't want to scan the QR code. 

Holafly‘s customer support is one of the best in the market. You can expect a reply from them within less than a minute of entering your query. With language support in English, German, French, Italian, Japanese, and Spanish, you can easily access the 24/7 support via WhatsApp or chat. On top of that, there's a frequently asked questions section that will solve most of your queries regarding the installation of the eSIM. 

However, if you plan to buy a single Holafly eSIM for your family, thinking that the unlimited data plan will do the trick, beware. Holafly eSIM doesn't allow data sharing with other devices as of now. 

While Holafly has great data plans, it doesn't include calls with all plans or SMS service. Currently, you can make calls up to 60 minutes and receive calls for up to 60 minutes in Europe, Spain, France, Italy, and Germany. However, I didn’t find this off-putting due to the sheer non-functionality of SMS and calls these days. You can always make calls or send texts through Holafly’s unlimited Internet (WhatsApp, Skype, or other apps).   Use code TECHRADAR to get 5% off.

Best eSIM for global plans

8. GlobaleSIM

GlobaleSIM provides global and local data plans for travelers and tourists in more than 150 countries, and you get extendable coverage with over 400 network carriers. It was among the first providers of eSIM when it first launched in 2016.

There are four broad plans that GlobaleSIM offers:

1. Most Popular Plan - available in 63 countries

2. Most Popular+ Plan - available in 93 countries

3. Special Plan - available in 115 countries

4. Special + Plan - available in 143 countries

For example, its “Most Popular Plan” starts at $3.00 for 500MB of data for 5 days. You also get the option of adding call minutes to your plan and selecting either a US, a UK, or a Canadian number. As there are several countries being covered under a single plan, you obviously cannot expect to get a local number to the place you're visiting, and since there's no roaming charge, a US, UK, or Canadian number isn't that bad, too, after all.

Many eSIM providers ask you to create an account before purchasing, but this one doesn't. You just have to fill out the required information, like your name, surname, and email address, and you're done. You can complete your payment via either PayPal or a credit card.  

However, I couldn’t find many single-country plans on GlobaleSIM. Even for a popular destination like the US, you’ll have to get a bundled plan which includes both the US and Canada. Moreover, despite being in the market for so long, it's a little disappointing that the provider doesn't have an application of its own, so you'll have to purchase the eSIM directly from the website. 

Unlike most other providers in the market, GlobaleSIM doesn't have chat support, the only way that you can connect to them is through emails, and the response time isn't as fast as chat support either. 

At first, you won't even find customer service or a way to get in touch with them on the front page of the website or while skimming through plans. You will have to go all the way down the page to find it. Simply put, the customer support is disappointing. 

All in all, GlobaleSIM is a great eSIM to consider if you're looking for a global plan that's easy to set up and purchase.  

Best eSIM for Europe

9. Holiday eSIM

Holiday eSIM is the best-prepaid service provider if you're traveling to Europe, with robust connections in every European country for high-speed data.  

What I like the most about this provider is that, unlike others, you get a French number with the eSIM. Its most popular plan includes unlimited calls and texts in Europe, 120 minutes of worldwide calling, and 1,000 texts. That's more than enough proposition for whatever your needs are. But of course, if all you are looking for is a data eSIM, you can also purchase the data-only packages it offers. 

The Orange holiday app is user-friendly and doesn't require any registration prior to installing the eSIM. All you have to do is install the eSIM, and the provider will automatically connect to the strongest local European mobile network provider in that area.  

Costing around $44.10 for 10GB of data with a validity of 14 days, you might argue that this isn't a cheap option. However, if you're looking to have amazing internet no matter which European street you are wandering on, this is worth the penny it costs.

Besides the European plan, there's also a competent data-only global plan with 6GB of data with a 15-day validity. What’s more — you can share your data as a hotspot, so if you want to work on your laptop while away, it won't be a problem. 

However, it doesn’t offer a lot of plan options. Thus, you do not have much flexibility, either in terms of the validity period or data limits. Moreover, I did not like the website interface as much as some other providers on our list. Finding your destination country is difficult — you’ll have to choose from a long list of options. Even when you do, you’ll find “Regional” and “Global” plans in every country. This essentially means that Holiday eSIM does not offer as many individual country plans. 

In conclusion, if you value your network connection more than your product's budget-friendliness, you should consider this for your European trip. While we're not trying to take away that this provider's plans will cost you more than the local plan you can buy from a local provider, there are also a few cheaper options that might work for you if your internet usage isn't a lot. 

Best eSIM for data-only plans

10. Flexiroam

eSIMs are an important part of Flexiroam's wide line of products, and it's one of the best data-only eSIM lines out there. You get access to more than 500 mobile networks worldwide through its partnership with Jersey Telecom, with multiple networks in a single place, meaning you are never limited to just one network with this one. 

When traveling, the eSIM automatically connects itself to the strongest network connection in that area for reliable and strong coverage no matter where you go.  If you still don't feel content with the connected network, you can manually switch to the provider of your choice and use it if you find that more comfortable. 

Most providers like Airalo and BNESIM work with one single provider in one area, and it’s possible that the local provider might not be the best for the area you're visiting. This is never the issue with Flexiroam.

There are more than 700 eSIM plans to choose from. However, these plans aren’t as neatly categorized as some other providers. You’ll have to select from a long drop-down list when looking for individual country plans. Its regional plans are a mixed bag of chocolates. While there are two unique regional plans - Greater Europe and Greater China, I couldn’t find a regional plan for Asia that is offered by almost every other competitor. If you’re on an Asian trip, you’ll want to look at some other eSIMs on our list.

Having said that, Flexiroam is among the few providers that include plans for less than 7 days, and unlike Holafly, it allows data sharing through both tethering and Hotspot. So if you're traveling in a group, you can just buy a single pack and share it with your entire group.

Being a data-only eSIM, you don't get a phone number to call in case there's a network coverage issue and your internet stops working. This can usually be a problem if you're traveling to remote places.

Concluding, Flexiroam is definitely worth your bucks if you are looking for a data-only eSIM for its affordability and wider network coverage.  

Best eSIMs for international travel FAQs

How to choose the best esim for international travel .

While all the providers have something or the other to offer,  it's important to know the factors that make an eSIM the best among them. 

1. The place that you are traveling to 

It's important to check the network coverage of an eSIM in the place you're visiting. eSIM providers often offer amazing coverage in particular countries but mediocre performance in others. This is because eSIMs collaborate or partner with local service providers in different countries to enhance network coverage. So make sure that you check the service of the local provider that's accessible to you and select the eSIM provider that has coverage to the place you're traveling to. 

Depending on the number of places you are going to visit, you can select local, regional, and global eSIMs. Here's how they differ:

• Local eSIM — you should go for this eSIM if you're traveling to just one country. For example, if you're traveling to Paris, you can get a local France eSIM. 
• Regional eSIM — This is a perfect option if you're going to travel to a couple of countries within the same region. Let’s say you're planning a Europe trip; in that case, instead of buying a local SIM for each country, it’s a lot more convenient to get a regional eSIM that will work on all the countries in Europe you're visiting. 
• Global eSIM — global eSIM allows you to connect several countries all over the world, which is perfect if you're going to travel worldwide or counties that are in different regions.  

2. How much data will you need?

If your data requirements are ambitious, you should preferably look for a cheap eSIM or one that provides unlimited data. On the other hand, if your data needs aren't too demanding, but you need internet in remote places, you might have to shell out a bit more for quality internet. To get an idea of how much data different apps use up, have a look at this: 

• Google Maps: 5MB per hour
• Social Media: 50MB per hour
• Internet Browsing: 50MB per hour
• Online Gaming: 70+MB per hour
• Streaming Music: 100MB per hour
• SD Video: 1GB per hour
• HD Video: 4GB per hour
• 4K Video: 7GB per hour

3. How long will you be abroad?

All eSIM providers have different validity options — you can choose between 7, 10, 15, 30, 60, 90 days plans, and so on. Find a plan with a validity period that outlines how long you're going to be using the eSIM. 

Some eSIM providers provide plans shorter than 7 days; look out for them if you're going to be away for the weekend. On the other hand, if your data usage is moderate, but you are traveling for longer periods, an unlimited plan might be the best for you. 

How do eSIM work?  

An eSIM card or embedded SIM card is a chip in your phone that lets you connect to a network by simply downloading an eSIM profile and activating it without having to swap the SIM card physically. 

eSIMs function similarly to physical cards — the only difference is that the card, instead of being inserted into the devices, can now be downloaded through an app and activated by scanning a QR code or following the steps provided in the manual. 

It is very easy to install an eSIM into the devices that are compatible with it. You can use multiple operators simultaneously and add several data plans according to your needs, as there's no physical space required to limit the number. 

You just have to change the profile to switch between one eSIM to another. This way, you can find the network in another eSIM if one SIM doesn't have a network. You can even have one SIM each for business and personal purposes.  

Since eSIMs can be updated electronically, providers in the US and UK are using eSIMs for the Internet of Things, adding a mobile network to almost anything that could use one, like cars and traffic lights.

While all the latest Apple devices are eSIM-compatible, most Android devices are also catching up. For example, the new Motorola Razr doesn't have a physical SIM card slot and only supports eSIM. Google Pixel phones and other Android devices, including laptops and tablets, have started providing eSIMs too. 

If you have already set up eSIM Carrier Activation, follow these steps to activate your SIM:

• On turning on your phone, you will find a notification appearing that says "Carrier Cellular Plan Ready to Be Installed", tap on it.
• If it doesn't pop up right away, In the Settings app, tap Carrier Cellular Plan Ready to Be Installed.
• You will find a "Continue" at the bottom of the screen. After that, the plan must have been activated. 
• Make a call on your iPhone to check its cellular connectivity. 
• If you're unable to make the call, contact your carrier. If the plan you activated replaces the plan on your physical SIM, your eSIM has been activated. Now remove your physical SIM. Then restart your iPhone.

After this, your eSIM will actively run on your phone, and you can use it along with your physical SIM cards too. This will especially be appreciated by those who don't like to give away their phone numbers when traveling abroad. 

Can I use more than one eSIM provider when traveling abroad? 

Yes, you can use more than one eSIM, depending on whether you use Android or iOS. When traveling, you’d want to use at least two SIMs simultaneously so that you don't lose touch with the older SIM contact when using the new local SIM. 

iPhones can store up to 5-10 eSIMs on the device, depending on the exact model. For example, the iPhone 13 Pro Max, iPhone 13 Pro, iPhone 13, and iPhone 13 Mini allow you to use two eSIMs simultaneously. On the flip side, you can use only one eSIM with iPhone 12 models, iPhone 11 models, iPhone XS, iPhone XS Max, and iPhone XR.

Similarly, Androids can also store 5-7 eSIMs on the device. However, you can only activate and use one eSIM at a time. 

This makes your work a lot easier. Suppose you’re traveling to Asia and Europe within a short span of time; you can purchase two eSIMs on your device. Simply activate the eSIM once you transition from one destination to another. This is more convenient compared to traditional SIMs, where you would have had to physically purchase a SIM at every destination you visit.

Traditional phones generally feature a maximum of 2 SIM cards in devices with dual SIM slots. In devices like iPhones that usually don't have a dual SIM feature, you will have to get a student device if you wish to use more than one SIM at once. 

How to set up and activate an eSIM on iOS

Devices like iPhone XS, iPhone XS Max, iPhone XR, or later support eSIM. And recently, it completely ditched the physical SIM card slot in all the US models of iPhone 14. While other countries still have the SIM card slot, Apple has made it clear that it will soon completely get rid of the physical SIM card.  

Note that Apple’s eSIM feature is not yet available in mainland China and a few parts of Hong Kong and Macao. These countries are still fully dependent on physical SIMs.  

Setting up and activating an eSIM is super easy if you follow the instructions below:

• On your iOS device, follow Settings > Cellular > Add Cellular Plan. If this doesn't work, try Settings > Mobile Data > Add eSIM.
• Click on the “Transfer from Nearby iPhone” option. At this point, remember that both iPhones have to be on iOS 16 for this to work.
• You will find instructions on the old model to help you through the process. Either tap the transfer button or enter the verification code on the older phone, which will be sent to the new iPhone. 
• Once you transfer the eSIM to the newer iPhone, it is deactivated from your old device, and your carrier will send you a notification to complete the setup on your new iPhone.

QR code support:

• If your carrier has issued you a QR code, you can simply select “Use QR Code” while setting up the new iPhone.
• You can find the “Use QR Code” option under Settings > Mobile Data > Add eSIM. 

Are eSIM better than physical SIM cards?  

eSIM card is a recently developed digital version of a physical SIM card that solves most problems faced while using a physical SIM card. While the functionality of both the SIMs has no difference, eSIM has an almost negligible chance of getting damaged, and since they cannot be physically detached from the device, it is impossible to lose them. 

If your device gets stolen, the thief will first throw out your SIM card because the device can be easily tracked through its SIM card. With eSIMs, this option just isn't there, so you can easily locate your device if it's ever stolen or lost. 

Also, eSIM frees up the space that a SIM card blocks. This space can be used to better optimize the device and leave less room for dust to enter. It also makes it better for devices like smartwatches to have an eSIM. 

On the other hand, eSIMs aren't as widely recognized yet, and physical SIM cards are supported on all devices. If your device doesn't support it, you'll have to get another one to switch to eSIMs.  

Plus, if you want to change your device, it is a lot more convenient to just place your SIM card in a different device, and just the day started. The same thing goes for a situation when you want to transfer contacts that are saved in your SIM card. 

eSIMs store data on the cloud. You can simply download it when needed. This way, your data remains safe and doesn't use up any storage on your device. 

Finally, both eSIMs and physical SIM cards have benefits of their own, and the better option definitely depends on personal preference, but objectively, eSIM is definitely the better option.  

Final verdict 

eSIMs have, undoubtedly, made traveling much easier. With affordable plans, excellent connections, and various validity options to choose from, eSIMs are the future of telecommunication. 

The only question is — which eSIM should you purchase? If you do not require voice call minutes (which I believe most wouldn’t), Airalo is your best bet. It has a lot of plan options to choose from, with validities as long as 180 days. It offers affordable local plans in as many as 200 countries, besides 7 regional plans and a value-for-money global plan. And since it partners with local network providers, you can rest assured of seamless connectivity as well. 

If you do want to make voice calls and send text messages, Airhub should be your go-to option. It offers plans in more than 190 countries, with more than 15 plans to select from in most countries. Like Airalo, it is also a value-for-money proposition and wouldn’t cost you a fortune. 

Are you a pro? Subscribe to our newsletter

Sign up to the TechRadar Pro newsletter to get all the top news, opinion, features and guidance your business needs to succeed!

Krishi covers buying guides and how-to's related to software, online tools, and tech products here at TechRadar. Over at Tom's Guide, he writes exclusively on VPN services. You can also find his work on Techopedia and The Tech Report. As a tech fanatic, Krishi also loves writing about the latest happenings in the world of cybersecurity, AI, and software.

OVHcloud is open sourcing its data center watercooler tech

More and more businesses now have CISOs - but they're increasingly taking the blame for attacks

AMD’s next-gen CPUs set to be Ryzen 9000 – and here’s another clue that Zen 5 launch could be imminent

Most Popular

• 2 New Google Pixel 9 photos leak – and so does the price of the Pixel 8a
• 3 Looking for a cheap OLED display? LG's highly-rated C2 OLED TV is on sale for $839
• 4 Amazon Prime Video's disappearing act could point to a future without the service
• 5 Discord's updated Terms of Service are exactly the wrong response to its recent data breaches
• 2 'It’s nothing to do with photography' – Sony World Photography Award winners tell us their mixed feelings about AI
• 3 Sony dropped OLED for its flagship 2024 TV – here's why
• 4 Meta rolls out new Meta AI website, and it might just bury Microsoft and Google's AI dreams
• 5 Bosses are becoming increasingly scared of AI because it might actually adversely affect their jobs too

Travel Europe on a Budget

The Savvy Backpacker

City Guides .\33 a132798-3f3b-4585-954d-7e70cf863447{fill:#231f20}

Best esim for europe travel | everything you need to know about european prepaid esim data plans.

A guide to everything you need to know about using eSIM data plans while traveling through Europe.

phones and technology

When most people want high-speed mobile data for their phone while traveling to Europe they’ve traditionally bought a physical SIM card. However, many newer phones have an embedded electronic SIM (i.e. eSIM) that allows you to connect to European mobile carriers without needing to install a physical SIM card. These new eSIM data plans offer travelers a ton of convenience but there are a few quirks as well. That’s why in this article I’m going to cover everything you need to know about eSIM data plans in Europe—including tips for finding the best eSIM for Europe travel.

What You’ll See In This eSIM Guide

• Do I Even Need Mobile Data In Europe?
• Can I Just Use My Mobile Plan’s Internation Data Plan?
• What Is an eSIM?

The Benefits of eSIM Mobile Data Plans

What iphones use esim cards, what android phones use esim cards, the best esim data plans for europe, how to activate an esim data plan, how much mobile data do you need when traveling europe, buying an esim in europe, more tips for using an esim data plan in europe, do you need mobile data in europe.

Honestly, yes, you need mobile data on your phone when traveling to Europe. Sure, you can sometimes find free wifi hotspots but that’s way more difficult than you’d think (I know from experience).

And so much of modern European life requires high-speed mobile data—train tickets are digital, Google Maps needs reliable data, sporting event tickets are digital, restaurant menus are accessed via QR codes, Uber/rideshare apps require data, some restaurants now want you to pay via your phone, accessing real-time public transportation info relies on mobile data, and the list goes on.

Can You Use Your Mobile Provider’s International Data Plan?

US/Canadian/Australian domestic mobile providers often offer an international data plan (either free or for an extra charge) but they all come with a few major drawbacks:

• They’re expensive: Expect to pay $10-$20/day
• Slow speeds : You’re often downgraded to 2G/3G speeds so even opening basic webpages could take forever to load (if it even loads). Many apps won’t function. Google Maps won’t work. Forget about social media.
• Data caps: These plans might start you off with standard 4G/LTE speeds but once you hit 1-2GB of data you’ll be downgraded to nearly-unusable 3G/2G speeds.
• Auto Enrollment: Some plans automatically enroll you in their international data plan the moment your phone tries to access data—which is just about every phone since smartphone apps are constantly running in the background.

For example, the  AT&T International Day Pass  costs $10/day. They also have their AT&T Passport plan, a monthly plan that’s either $70/month for 2 GB of data or $140/month for 6 GB. Then they charge an insane overage of $30 per GB.  Verizon  also has a $10/day pass but they knock you down to 3G speeds after 2GB each day.

And many  T-Mobile  customers get free “unlimited” international data but you’re only guaranteed 2g data speeds after you hit a total usage of 5GB of data… which will struggle to load Google Maps or even email. T-Mobile gives you the option to pay more to get 5GB at better speeds but then you’ll be charged a premium.

These “international data plans” are 5X as expensive as buying a prepaid eSIM data plan from a third-party provider—for example, eSIM data plans from  Orange  or  Holafly  will cost you around $2-$4/day.

So do yourself a favor and buy a European mobile data plan.

What Is An eSIM?

In short, an eSIM is an embedded/digital version of the traditional physical SIM card. So instead of installing a physical SIM card to change your mobile provider, you simply connect to a new mobile data service provider using an app.

This is great for international travel because you no longer have to hunt down a new SIM card when you change countries. You simply activate the eSIM service and you’re online in seconds.

Many new phones are dual SIM so you can still use your physical domestic SIM card while also using the eSIM so you can switch back and forth between your mobile data providers.

Some phones are also moving to eSIM only—the USA versions of the iPhone 14 and iPhone 15 (and future generations) no longer feature a SIM card slot but do support dual eSIM.

Below are some of the many benefits of using an eSIM data plan while traveling.

No Searching For SIM Cards

The biggest benefit of an eSIM is not having to track down a physical SIM card. All you have to do is install the mobile provider’s app to activate the eSIM data service. This means you can order your eSIM, and download the app before you leave. and then activate the service when you arrive at your destination.

Instant Delivery (No Shipping Fees)

Since eSIM cards are all digital you don’t have to pay shipping fees if you want to pre-purchase a European data plan before arriving in Europe.

For example, you can buy a plan from SimOptions or Holafly and they’ll email you a QR code or link to activate the service.

Dual eSIMs Allow You To Use Two Data Plans At Once

Another big benefit to using an eSIM is that you can seamlessly switch between your domestic plan (via the physical SIM) and the travel plan (via your eSIM). In fact, some phones let you have up to 5 eSIM data plans on a single phone—which is overkill for most people but it’s still an option.

Another huge benefit to having dual SIM cards is that many services will send you texts for things like two-factor identification or your bank might text you with fraud alerts and these won’t come through if you don’t have your home plan’s physical SIM card installed.

No Need to Remove Your Current SIM Card

Removing the physical SIM card is a hassle. First, you need the little tool to pop the SIM out of the phone (which is easy to lose). Then you also have to remove your phone case. You also have to keep track of your original SIM card so you don’t lose or damage it (you’ll need to reinstall it to get your service back).

Easier To Add Credit To Your Account

All eSIM data plans require you to download the service provider’s app to activate the service and most allow you to easily add credit to your account via the app.

Not all iPhones have built-in eSIM compatibility but essentially all iPhones made since 2019 should be eSIM compatible—i.e. they’re Dual SIM so they have both a physical SIM and an eSIM.

UPDATE: All iPhone 14 (and newer) sold in the UNITED STATES are eSIM-only so there isn’t a physical SIM Card slot anymore. However, all iPhones sold outside the US have dual SIM with physical SIM and eSIM.

eSIM Compatible Phones:

• (The base iPhone X and anything older is not eSIM compatible)
• iPhone 11, 11 Pro, and 11 Pro Max
• iPhone 12, 12 Pro, 12 Pro Max, 12 Mini & iPhone SE 2020
• iPhone 13, 13 Pro, 13 Mini
• iPhone 14 Pro, iPhone 14 Pro Max, iPhone 14, iPhone 14 Plus, iPhone SE, etc.
• iPhone 15 Pro, iPhone 15 Pro Max, iPhone 15, and iPhone 15 Plus

Again, just about every Android sold since 2020 is eSIM compatible.

• Samsung Galaxy Fold & Galaxy Fold 2 / Galaxy Z Flip & Z Flip 5G
• Samsung Galaxy S20, S20+, S20 Ultra / Galaxy Note 20
• Samsung Galaxy S21 5G, S21+ 5G, S21 Ultra 5G
• Google Pixel 3, Pixel 3XL, Pixel 4, Pixel 4XL, Pixel 4a (4G), Pixel 5 (5G), Pixel 6, Pixel 7
• Huawei P40 and P40 Pro & Mate 40 Pro

A great thing about traveling to Europe is that the EU outlawed mobile data roaming fees so any EU data plan will work anywhere within the UE—i.e. you can buy a French eSIM and use it in Italy, Germany, Poland, etc.

That said, I recommend sticking with the major European carriers since they’ll have the most comprehensive networks and the fastest mobile data speeds.

NOTE: The UK and Switzerland aren’t in the EU so not all plans will work there (but many still do)—check each plan to see if they cover these countries.

Orange Holiday Europe eSIM 50GB: $59.90

• Price:  $59.90 (Check  SimOptions  for details)
• Data:  50GB
• Service Speed:  4G/LTE
• Calls:  Unlimited within Europe and 120 min outside of Europe.
• Texts/SMS:  Unlimited within Europe and 1000 outside of Europe.
• Credit validity:  28 day
• Data Tethering:  Allowed
• Usable on any device (phones, tablets, hotspots…)
• This eSIM plan comes with a French phone number that can still be used anywhere in Europe
• Service works everywhere in the EU

Need tons of data? Consider the newly released  Orange Holiday Europe 50GB eSIM data plan which is a beefed-up version of the Orange Holiday Europe eSIM. It has 50GB of data and it’s valid for 28 days (compared to 14 days with the Orange Holiday Europe plan). This eSIM also comes with many features you don’t find with other plans—including international voice calling and texts (it gives you an actual French phone number that works anywhere in Europe).

The Orange Holiday Europe eSIM plan also allows you to use your phone as a mobile hotspot so you can put that extra data allowance to good use. Orange is also one of the largest mobile companies in Europe so you’ll always get great coverage and high data speeds.

Holafly Europe eSIM with Unlimited Data: Starting at $19.00

Holafly is a new Europe-based eSIM provider that I used in Italy—the service was great and I got very fast data speeds (read my Holafly eSIM Review to learn more). They sell both country-specific and Europe-wide data plans.

Unlike other mobile data companies, Holafly gives you unlimited data and a local phone number with 60 minutes of credit for making/receiving calls from European numbers (with a few exceptions). I also like how Holafly’s plans come in durations from 5 to 90 days—so you don’t have to over/underbuy for your particular trip.

• 5 Days: $19
• 10 Days: $34
• 15 Days: $47
• 20 Days: $54
• 30 Days: $64
• 60 Days: $84
• 90 Days: $99
• Service Speed: 5G/4G/LTE
• Call Coverage:  60 minutes of credit to make calls from all of Europe—except Iceland, Norway, United Kingdom, Switzerland, Ukraine, and Turkey. Comes with an Austrian phone number.
• Texts/SMS: None
• Tethering: No

Bouygues My European eSIM: $44.90

Bouygues is a major French telecommunications company and they’ve recently released their own prepaid eSIM data plan to compete with the popular Orange Holiday Europe eSIM plan. I used a prepaid Bouygues SIM card on a previous trip to Europe so I’m glad they’re finally offering an eSIM.

There’s a lot to like about the Bouygues My European eSIM plan —especially since it comes standard with 30GB of data and unlimited calls within Europe. I also like how this Bouygues eSIM plan is valid for 30 days so it’s a great option for longer trips.

• Price: $44.90 (Check SimOptions for details)
• Data Tethering: Allowed
• Service Speed: 4G/LTE
• Calls: Unlimited within Europe
• Credit validity: 30 day
• Phone Number: This eSIM card comes with a French phone number
• Coverage : Anywhere within the European Union (except Switzerland)

Check out my Bouygues European eSIM review for more information about this plan.

Orange Holiday Europe eSIM 30GB: $49.90

• Price: $49.90 (Check SimOptions for details)
• Calls: Unlimited within Europe and 120 min outside of Europe.
• Texts/SMS: Unlimited within Europe and 1000 outside of Europe.
• Credit validity: 14 day
• Data tethering allowed
• This eSIM card comes with a French phone number

The  Orange Holiday Europe eSIM data plan is another excellent eSIM plan because it comes with 30GB of data and many features you don’t find with other plans—including international voice calling and texts (it gives you an actual French phone number that will work anywhere in Europe). The Orange Holiday Europe eSIM plan also allows you to use your phone as a mobile hotspot.

Orange is also one of the largest mobile companies in Europe so you’ll always get great coverage and high data speeds.

The potential downside to the Orange Holiday Europe eSIM is that it’s only valid for 14 days once activated so it’s not great for longer visits (but you can always buy a second plan).

Orange Holiday Zen eSIM: $29.90

• Price: $29.90 (Check SimOptions for details)
• Data: 15GB (recently upgraded from 8GB)
• Calls: Unlimited within Europe and 30 min outside of Europe.
• Texts/SMS: Unlimited within Europe and 200 outside of Europe.

The Orange Holiday Zen plan is a top pick for travelers for a few different reasons.

First, Orange is one of the largest mobile networks in Europe so they have great coverage basically everywhere in Europe and you won’t have to worry about slow speeds.

Second, Orange Holiday eSIM data plan gives you unlimited calls and texts within Europe and limited (yet still ample) credit for calls/texts outside the EU. A majority of eSIM plans from other providers don’t give you any (or very limited) credit for calls or texts.

This plan comes with 15GB of mobile data which should suffice for most travelers who aren’t heavy data users.

Smart Comfort X eSIM: $17.90

• Price: $17.90 (Check SimOptions for details)
• Calls: None

The Smart Comfort X eSIM is a budget data-only eSIM plan option that gives you 5GB of data but no calls or texts (you can still send iMessage if you’re sending messages between iPhones and make calls/texts via WhatsApp, etc.).

Smart Comfort X eSIM is also what’s considered an “international eSIM” so it’s not backed by a specific data provider (i.e. Orange, O2, etc.). That means it will connect to a specific partner provider in each country—for example, France (Bouygues), Germany (O2), Italy (WIND), Spain (Telefonica), etc.

Because of its limited data limits, the Smart Comfort X eSIM plan is best for light data users.

Do European eSIM Plans Come With A European Phone Number?

Some European prepaid eSIM plans come with a European phone number but many prepaid eSIM plans are data only. You probably don’t need a European phone number but it can come in handy for calling restaurants, hotels, or Airbnb hosts (many use WhatsApp—which only requires a data connection).

Recommended Prepaid eSim Plans with A European Phone Number:

• Bouygues My European eSIM : This eSIM plan comes with unlimited calling in Europe.
• Holafly Europe eSIM : Holafly eSIM plans include 60 minutes of calling in Europe.
• Orange Holiday Europe eSIM and Orange Holiday Zen eSIM : Orange comes with international and Europe calling.

Studies show that the average American uses about 5-7GB of mobile data every week but your rate will vary.

You can easily hit 15GB/week if you’re a heavy user but it’s fairly easy to keep your mobile data usage under 2-3GB/week if you stick to basic web browsing, limit your social media use, and keep app usage to a minimum (or save your heavy usage for when you’re on wifi).

Activating an eSIM is relatively simple.

UPDATE: Apple’s iOS 17.4 update (released late March 2024) now includes an automatic eSIM installation and activation feature—making setting up and managing your eSIM much easier. This is great news!

Step One: Purchase Your Data Plan

I highly recommend purchasing your eSIM before you leave because you’ll need data/wifi to complete the setup.

Step Two: Check Your Email For The QR Code

You’ll get an email from the seller as soon as you make your purchase.

This email will include a QR code that you can scan so you’ll want to be in front of your computer so you can scan the QR code from your screen.

Step Three: Install The Carrier’s eSIM App

The QR code will lead you to download the carrier’s eSIM app. Just follow the directions they send you.

IMPORTANT: Don’t fully activate your eSIM data plan until you’re in Europe. Most data plans only have a validity period of 14-30 days and that countdown begins the second you activate the service. So, for example, if you activate the service a week before your trip then you’ll have lost a full week from your service length (even if you haven’t used any data).

Step Four: Fully Activate Service Once in Europe

Finish the activation process. Your phone should automatically connect to the local data network (it might take a few minutes to get fully activated).

The beauty of eSIM plans is that they’re completely digital so you can buy them online anytime, anywhere (see all the above eSIM options).

Every European country has its own domestic mobile carriers and each is starting to offer its own prepaid eSIM data plans. However, carrier-specific eSIM mobile packages aren’t quite widespread in Europe yet so not every mobile carrier will have options—therefore, not every retailer will have them (or they’ll have a very limited selection).

Furthermore, many European carriers only offer “postpaid” eSIM plans so they’re generally not conducive to short-term visitors and tourists. That’s why I recommend buying one of the eSIM plans I mentioned earlier in this article.

What Countries in Europe Support eSIM?

While not every mobile carrier in Europe has an eSIM mobile plan, there are carriers in every European country that accept eSIM technology—therefore, your phone will automatically connect to a provider (no matter what eSIM plan you’re using).

Simply put: Your eSIM data plan will work anywhere in Europe.

Coverage Note About Switzerland (and Possibly the UK): Switzerland is an outlier because they’re not technically part of the EU so some providers don’t work there. For example, the Orange Holiday plans work in Switzerland but the Smart Comfort X plan won’t work there. There are also rumors that the UK also has (or will have soon) the same issues because of Brexit. Learn more on our Guide on How To Use Data Plans and Smartphone Phones Abroad

Here are a few more tips for getting the most out of using your high-speed eSIM mobile data plan while traveling around Europe. If you want to learn more, check out The Savvy Backpacker’s Guide to How To Use Data Plans and Smartphone Phones Abroad

You Need An Unlocked Phone

You need to make sure your phone is unlocked before you can install both a SIM card or eSIM—many American mobile carriers use software to “lock” their smartphones to their network so the phone won’t work if you install a SIM card from another company.

However, you can unlock your phone by calling your mobile carrier and asking them to unlock it because you’re going to travel abroad (you might need to visit a store to get it unlocked).

BUY A PORTABLE BATTERY CHARGER

Using apps like Google Maps and taking photos kills your phone battery so a portable battery is a must-have. I use  Anker PowerCore 10000  because it’s tiny and affordable but there are multiple options.

Save Heavy Data Usage For When You’re On Wifi

It’s extremely easy to unknowingly burn through a lot of data—especially when you’re using data-hungry apps like Facebook, Instagram, Snapchat, and TikTok. Therefore it’s highly recommended to save your heavy data usage for when you’re connected to wifi.

USE AIRPLANE MODE AND BLOCK DATA TO SPECIFIC APPS

I’ll put my phone in Airplane Mode because that disables all data (but GPS still works in Airplane Mode). You can also go into the settings and disable data access to each individual app.

DOWNLOAD OFFLINE MAPS

Google Maps lets you download entire city maps so they can be used offline. As an added bonus, GPS doesn’t use data so offline Google Maps works fairly well (but not all functionality works). Here is a good  YouTube video  that explains everything.

Download WhatsApp

WhatsApp is an excellent app for free calling and text messages—I’ve found that many Europeans exclusively use WhatsApp to communicate (including many Airbnb hosts).

Get More Europe Travel Tips From The Savvy Backpacker

Are you heading to Europe soon? Here are some more helpful articles I’ve written to help you plan your European travels.

• Backpacking Europe Packing List
• Europe Packing List for Women
• The Best Travel Shoes
• The Best Travel Backpacks  and  The Best Travel Backpacks for Women
• Guide To Buying SIM Cards and Mobile Data Plans in  France
• Guide to Buying SIM Cards and Mobile Data Plans in Germany
• Guide To Buying SIM Cards and Mobile Data Plans in  Italy
• Guide To Buying SIM Cards and Mobile Data Plans in  Spain
• Recent Posts

• Best Prepaid UK eSIM | Data Plan Buyer’s Guide - April 21, 2024
• How to Avoid Pickpockets in Europe — Tips for Outsmarting the Thieves - April 19, 2024
• Best Prepaid eSIM For Italy | Data Plan Buyer’s Guide - April 18, 2024

No Funny Business

The Savvy Backpacker is reader-supported. That means when you buy products/services through links on the site, I may earn an affiliate commission—it doesn’t cost you anything extra and it helps support the site.

Thanks For Reading! — James

Questions? Learn more about our Strict Advertising Policy and How To Support Us .

Related Reads

Best prepaid uk esim | data plan buyer’s guide.

A guide to finding the best prepaid eSIM data plans for visiting the United Kingdom

Best Prepaid eSIM For Italy | Data Plan Buyer’s Guide

A guide to finding the best prepaid eSIM data plans for visiting Italy

phones and technology , Product Reviews

Holafly eSIM Review | Testing The New eSIM Data Plan from Holafly

Testing the unlimited Holafly eSIM data plan to see how it works while traveling in Europe.

Guide To Using Smartphones, SIM Cards, and Data Plans In Europe

What you need to know about using smartphones, high-speed data plans, and SIM cards in Europe — without spending a fortune.

City Guides

Choosing travel insurance, travel packing lists, budget travel newsletter.

The best budget travel tips sent straight to your inbox.

Join My Journey

Europe travel tips, advertising & privacy policies.

TheSavvyBackpacker.com is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.com.

© 2010 - 2024 The Savvy Backpacker

Website Design by FHOKE

What are you looking for?

5 best esims for europe travel [unbiased 2024 guide].

I’ve been using eSIMS while traveling since 2021, and more recently I’ve started using them on my trips to Europe. 

Since Brexit, data restrictions have affected my current network of O2, which means I’m now capped at 25GB on my current plan when traveling around Europe ( where I used to get unlimited data included! ).

Now if I only plan to use my phone for a few days then this is fine, however if it’s a longer trip (or if using my phone as a hotspot for a laptop) then this can cause some issues. 

This is why I now use eSims for my travels to Europe, as well as internationally.

If you’re from the USA or any other foreign country, then an eSIM will be the most convenient way for you to access the internet within Europe. 

You won’t need to go through the trouble of searching for a physical sim to put in your phone , or have to pay for expensive roaming charges.

In this guide I’m going to take you through:

• What an eSIM is exactly
• The advantages of eSIMs
• The best eSIMs for Europe travel

Let’s get started…

Travellerspoint

What is an eSIM?

Whilst most of us are used to traditional SIM cards that you insert into a phone or other devices, eSIMs are still lesser-known in comparison. They’re essentially a digital version of a regular SIM, where everything is stored inside your phone (and online). 

The main advantage here is that you no longer need to go hunting around a foreign city for a SIM card, where instead you can easily activate international mobile networks on your phone in just a few clicks. 

You also won’t need to do any fidgety things with your phone, given it’s all sorted internally with no external devices or extra assistance needed.

Given these benefits, they’re certainly becoming more popular nowadays (especially in the Western World), and we personally think they are a must for when traveling around Europe.

What phones are compatible with eSIMs?

• iPhone 13, 13 Mini, 13 Pro, 13 Pro Max
• iPhone 12, 12 Mini, 12 Pro, 12 Pro Max
• iPhone 11, 11 Pro, 11 Pro Max
• iPhone XS, XS Max, XR
• iPhone SE (2020, 2022)
• Apple watch series 3, 4, 5 and 6
• Apple watch SE
• All iPads with 4G connectivity that have come out since 2018 support eSIMs:
• iPad Pro 11″ (model A2068, from 2020)
• iPad Pro 12.9″ (model A2069, from 2020)
• iPad Air (model A2123, from 2019)
• iPad (model A2198, from 2019)
• iPad Mini (model A2124, from 2019)
• Galaxy S22, S22+ 5G, S22 Ultra 5G
• Galaxy S21, S21+ 5G, S21 Ultra 5G
• Galaxy S20, S20+, S20 Ultra
• Galaxy Note 20, 20+, 20 Ultra
• Galaxy Fold, Fold 2, Fold 3
• Galaxy Z Flip, Flip 3
• Samsung Watch (through Samsung wearable application)
• The Samsung Galaxy S20 FE 4G or 5G is not compatible with eSIMs
• Google Pixel 2 (only phones bought with Google Fi service), 2 XL
• Google Pixel 3 (not including phones bought in Australia, Taiwan or Japan. Phones bought with US or Canadian carriers other than Spring and Google Fi don't work with eSIM), 3a (not including phones bought in Japan or with Verizon sersvice), 3a XL, 3 XL
• Google Pixel 
• Google Pixel 4, 4a, 4 XL 
• Google Pixel 5, 51
• Google Pixel 6, 6 plus

Other ESIM Compatible Devices

• Huawei P40, Huawei P40 Pro, Huawei Mate 40 Pro (The Huawei P40+ is not compatible with an eSIM)
• Oppo Find X5, X5 Pro, X3 Pro
• Oppo Reno 5A, Reno 6 Pro 5G
• Sony Xperia 10 IV, 10 III Lite
• Honor Magic 4 Pro
• Fairphone 4
• Motorola Razr 2019
• Nuu Mobile X5
• Rakuten Mini
• Microsoft Surface Duo

Basically, if you’ve got a new phone, then an eSIM will work (probably even with multiple eSIMS). But if your phone isn’t on the above list, or is older than the list, then the chances are it will not be compatible with an eSIM.

Can I use my current mobile provider's international data plan? 

Whilst this was the only other option a few decades ago (aside from buying new local SIMs), nowadays it’s one of the least popular ways of connecting yourself abroad. 

Firstly the costs tend to rack up quickly, and if you’re not careful you may find yourself with a massive bill once you get back home (they can cost anywhere up to $10-15 a day!). 

As well as this, the connection quality isn’t that great either , where you’ll have less data available as well as a cap on how fast the internet is (you’re often downgraded to 2G/3G speeds - especially in the more remote regions). For example with 02, I am capped at 25GB where they can also throttle my speed if I use too much data.

Advantages of eSIMs when traveling Europe

• More Affordable - Of course using roaming data is known to be expensive, however using eSIMs can also be cheaper than using traditional SIMs bought abroad. This is because you have to first buy the physical SIM card first, before then purchasing a data plan (not to mention if you get any signal issues which means you’ll have to pay extra to change again!). eSIMs are overall cheaper, especially if you travel frequently to different countries.
• Very Flexible - eSIMs are also extremely flexible too. As everything is stored digitally inside the phone, you can easily swap between networks as needed without having to change or buy new SIMs. It also means you can instantly switch back to your home network when abroad to catch up with friends and family whenever you feel like it.
• Quick and Convenient - One of the best things about having an eSIM is that you can arrive in a new country and immediately connect to the internet using local networks . No longer do you have to scour a new city for a local SIM provider, given you can just click a few buttons and be connected as if you were back home!
• You can keep your own number (so no need to learn a new one!) - This is really useful, since you won’t need to copy numbers over from SIMs or let everyone know your new number again. It’s pretty much the same as WhatsApp, so as you connect abroad you can continue as if nothing has changed.
• Full Continent Cover - The eSIMS we are recommending for European travel include Europe as a whole , so you won’t ever need to switch to another eSIM to cover another country within Europe. This again is really practical and helps save you both money and time.
• No Physical SIM Cards - As we’ve already mentioned, you won’t have to waste time looking for a new SIM card every time you visit a new country. It also means you won’t have to worry about losing them too, given everything is stored electronically which gives you that extra piece of mind.

BEST eSIMs for Europe travel 

1. sim local - best overall esim for europe.

Sim Local is your go-to eSIM for hassle-free connectivity wherever your European adventures take you! They specialize in providing convenient eSIM solutions, meaning no more bulky physical SIM cards or complicated roaming plans. With Sim Local, you can easily stay connected to high-speed data networks across Europe right from your device.

Whether you're exploring the cobblestone streets of Paris or savoring gelato in Rome, they've got you covered.

With a range of country specific Europe deals starting at £3 for 1GB of data in France, Spain and Portugal (to name just a few), to Europe region specific eSIMs starting at just £17.50 for 12GB AND it comes with a French mobile number so you can make calls...this is a fantastic deal!

The Europe plan comes in 12GB, a whopping 30GB, or 50GB (both the 30 and 50 actually include a set numeber of minutes and texts!)

The European plans also cover 36 countries: 

• Czech Republic
• Faroe Islands (this is good, a LOT of Europe eSIM plans, don't actually include this, I know this from using eSIMS in Faroe)
• Liechtenstein
• Netherlands
• Switzerland,
• United Kingdom

Advantages of Sim Local eSIM for Europe

• Get calls, texts and data when traveling abroad.
• Data tethering allowed (you can hot spot, AN ESSENTIAL FOR ME!)
• No usage limitation
• 30+ countries
• Excellent network connectivity

Disadvantages of Sim Local eSIM for Europe

• No unlimited data plans

2. BNESIM - Best all-in-one eSIM

BNESIM is an eSIM provider that truly has it all.

Not only can you get excellent value data only plans for over 200 countries, but they also offer international phone number plans starting at 2 Euro a month!

If you prefer having a physical hot spot device with you on your travels, then they even cover that too. This works particularly well if you're planning on doing some work on the road!

AND they even offer a VPN at a great price.

So you can truly get everything you need to be connected on your travels throughout Europe and ensure you're staying safe too!

In terms of being a fantastic eSIM for Europe, BNESIM offer an all-in-one Europe eSIM plan with a few unique perks.

Their one eSIM covers all of Europe, and you can opt to use it in two different ways. Either as a PAYG option, or a monthly subscription option which is perfect if you know you will be travelling around Europe for a few months.

For their Pay-As-You-Go option, you can get 1GB for as little as £3.17, all the way up to 20GB for less than £56. AND, the data NEVER expires, so if you've popped into Europe for a city break, but didn't use all your data, then no worries, you can use the rest of it on your next trip out there!

For their monthly subscriptions you can get 1GB for less than 80p (that's excellent value!!), all the way up to unlimited data & calls plans for less than £56 a month.

I think BNESIM offers a wide range of eSIM options for a fantastic price.

And if you're only going to one specific country in Europe, you can opt for a single country with the same PAYG and subscription options.

I'll be testing this eSIM in Romania in the next few weeks, so I will be sure to update this post with my thoughts on my return! 

And if you're wondering, YES you can hot spot all the data from BNESIM and there are no restrictions...which you know I LOVE, being the digital nomad I am!

Countries that BNESIM are present in include:

• Aland islands
• Balearic islands
• Canary islands
• The Cyclades
• Faroe islands
• Isle of Man
• Switzerland

Advantages of BNESIM for Europe: 

• No expiration on data with PAYG plans
• Full all-in-one Europe Plan
• No hot spot restrictions

Disadvantages of BNESIM for Europe: 

• No unlimited data option on PAYG

3. Maya Mobile - Best eSim for Europe with Unlimited Data

Out of all the top eSIM providers you can choose from in Europe, Maya still remains my favorite on the market today. 

Not only are the prices great, it’s quick and easy to use and I’ve never had any issues with coverage. 

They’re one of the biggest brands around, present in over 190 countries across the globe.

This means that within Europe you can use their eSIM in virtually all countries, and below we have listed where they are currently present. 

We’ve used Maya a lot on our recent trip to Latin America, and can only say good things (we paid £104 for a month of unlimited data - which although sounds pricey, it ended up being the most cost effective option of them all).

Another advantage of using Maya Mobile is the sheer amount of plans they offer for travelers heading around Europe . Plans begin from just £5, which includes 3GB of data that lasts for up to 5 days (whilst it sounds a lot - remember that you can travel through different countries with the same SIM). 

Those who work as digital nomads and need lots of data for working and using it as a hotspot can also find great value plans too. For £49 you can have unlimited data for 30 days, which again is ideal for those who have internet-heavy jobs (as well as those who plan to move quickly through different countries).

Internet connection with Maya is already really solid too, with all plans offering at least a guaranteed 4G connection (whilst other companies and regions around the world are still using the slower 3G connection). Some plans even offer you 5G, which is a major step-up in terms of both ultra high speed connection as well as reliability too.

Countries that Maya Mobile are present in include:

Advantages of maya mobile for europe: .

• Unlimited hot spots
• Unlimited data packages at a great price

Disadvantages of Maya Mobile for Europe: 

• Device Compatibility
• Limited Customer Support

‍ 4. Eskimo - Best eSIM App for Europe (Get 1GB FREE WITH OUR LINK !)

Offering coverage in over 80 countries worldwide (including many European countries listed below), Eskimo is a unique eSIM app that gives you global data at one flat local rate to roam worldwide. 

This is a perfect solution for those who travel frequently, and often visit different parts of the world on both short and longer trips. 

It also means you won’t have to worry about spending more in certain countries, given local SIM expenses can sometimes catch us off guard (or even worse when you find out how much your roaming costs were when you get back home!).

Eskimo are also unique in that they offer much longer-term eSIMs, with the longest period of up to 2 years! This is perfect for travelers on long trips, or those who work as digital nomads and don’t know when they will next be moving around. 

Even if you’re only heading out for a few months, it will still be valid come the next year when you decide to travel again. 

They also have an intuitive app too, which allows you to transfer data over to family and friends whenever you feel like it.

Countries that Eskimo are present in include:

• Czech Republic 
• Isle of Man 
• United Kingdom 

Advantages of Eskimo for Europe: 

• Data Transfer
• Long-Term eSIMs of up to 2 years

Disadvantages of Eskimo for Europe: 

• No Unlimited Data Plans

5. Holafly - Best eSIM for Europe travel with Calls!

Next we move onto Holafly , one of the best eSIM providers in Europe for those who are focusing more on the travel aspect rather than working or living a digital nomad lifestyle.

One of their biggest perks is that they allow 60 minutes of calling , meaning you can easily get in touch with local numbers when traveling (great for things such as ordering local food and contacting tour companies where you are). 

Holafly’s eSIM is also compatible with all smartphones that have an eSIM capability.

Their cheapest plan begins at $19 for 5 days, whilst those who are traveling longer in Europe can select their 90 day plan which costs $99.

Whilst they’re not the cheapest provider on our list, the flexibility in plan lengths is great if you know more or less how long you will be traveling for.

As mentioned, we recommend Holafly more for those who travel rather than work, given they do not allow hotspotting. However if only using their eSIM for personal use, then we think they’re a perfect option when traveling through Europe.

Countries that Holafly are present in include:

Advantages of holafly for europe: .

• Ability to make Calls
• Perfect for those who don’t plan to work as heavy when traveling 

Disadvantages of Holafly for Europe: 

• They don’t allow Hotspotting

What Europe eSIM will you go for?

And that’s all for our guide on the best eSIMS to use when traveling to and around Europe.

Nowadays using regular SIM cards can be a hassle, especially as you have to find a new one in every country you visit. Even more problematic is using data roaming when abroad, given costs can quickly add-up. 

A much better solution is using an eSIM card, which is both more flexible and in some cases even cheaper than the other options listed above.

In this guide we’ve covered why using an eSIM is advantageous over the other traditional options, as well as 5 of the best eSIM companies you can use when in Europe.

Which do you think is the best European eSIM? Will you get it for your next trip? 

Do you have a particular brand that we haven’t included?

Comment below and let us know your thoughts!

Looking for more eSIM guides?

• Best eSIMS for South East Asia
• Best eSIMS for USA Travel
• Best eSIMS for Mexico

Leave a comment

Let us know what you think.

5 million people can't be wrong

Nomadic Matt's Travel Site

Travel Better, Cheaper, Longer

The Best eSIM for Traveling Europe

If I had to confine my travels to one region of the world for the rest of my life, it would probably be Europe . From the iconic views of Paris to the amazing cuisine of Italy to the lively nightlife of places like Barcelona and Budapest, Europe has it all. It’s a region you can explore on a budget or a place to splash out on luxury hotels and charming river cruises. It’s perfect for weekend getaways or month-long adventures.

I’ve been visiting Europe for over 15 years. And while each trip is different, there’s one thing I always do when I go: I buy an eSIM.

SIM cards are what allow you to make calls and access mobile data from your smartphone. In the past, this meant buying and installing physical SIM cards and swapping them in and out from country to country. While this was cheaper than paying roaming charges from my provider back home, it was a hassle.

Fortunately, there is an easier (and cheaper) way to access mobile data in Europe during your next trip: an eSIM.

eSIMs are virtual SIM cards that provide mobile data without the need to buy a physical SIM card. They’re easy to install, affordable, and work just as well as regular SIM cards.

And the best eSIM for travelers in Europe? Holafly .  

What is Holafly?

Holafly provides international eSIMs to travelers so they can stay connected as they explore the world. They provide coverage in over 170 countries, including all around Europe. Instead of buying a physical SIM card when you visit a destination, with Holafly, you can use a digital SIM card instead.

To get an eSIM, you’ll first want to browse their plans to see which duration is best for you. They have plans from 5-90 days, costing 19-99 EUR. All of their plans have unlimited data (which is a must in my opinion).

Once you choose your plan, you can make a purchase, either via their website or via their app. Here’s a quick look at the steps involved:

From here, you’ll get additional instructions emailed to you that walk you through the process of setting it up. Set up is via QR code or manually, and if you’re on iOS 17.4, there’s also an option to enable automatic installation and activation with just one tap. All options are super straightforward, but if you run into trouble they have 24/7 support to help you with any issues.

With a Holafly eSIM for Europe , you’ll enjoy unlimited data and even keep your Whatsapp number (which you should download if you don’t use it already, as everyone in Europe uses it, including businesses).

If you’re heading to multiple countries in Europe, having a single eSIM will save you a ton of hassle over buying new physical SIM cards while you travel. And since you can top up your eSIM online, you’ll save a bunch of time too since you never need to find a store to visit to get a SIM or load more data.

(As I mentioned above, Holafly has unlimited data plans for Europe in case you’re worried about data limits.)  

Why Use Holafly in Europe?

While there is plenty of free Wi-Fi around Europe, it’s not available everywhere. And since connections can be slow (or unsafe), having your own mobile data is always recommended. I always make sure I have my own data when I travel around Europe because it’s just so helpful when it comes to booking activities, getting a taxi or Uber, and looking up things like directions of translations.

Holafly is available in 32 countries in Europe, providing fast and stable connections everywhere you go. They’re much, much cheaper than roaming charges, and if you’re visiting multiple countries, having an eSIM is far less of a hassle than trying to buy new physical SIM cards in each new country you visit.

In short, if you’re heading to Europe and want to stay connected, a Holafly eSIM is a must.

Here’s a look at what’s included at a glance:

• Unlimited data
• Plans starting at $19 USD
• Available in 32 countries in Europe
• Easy installation process (automatic on iOS 17.4)
• 24/7 customer support

For me, the unlimited data is the big highlight here. That means you’ll never run out of mobile data for things like Google Maps, Google translate, or looking up things to do.

And since you’ll be keeping your physical SIM card in your phone, you can still take calls to your regular phone number if you need to.

The only downside is that there is no data sharing on their Europe plans (i.e. hot spotting), but with plans so cheap you likely won’t need to share with a friend or family because they can just purchase their own eSIM.

Europe is an amazing region to explore. I never get tired of wandering the continent and always encourage people to visit. Regardless of your interests or budget, there is something here for you. And with a Holafly eSIM you’ll be able to make the most of your trip, save money, and stay safe as you enjoy everything the continent has to offer!

You can download the Holafly app in the App Store or Play store .

Book Your Trip to Europe: Logistical Tips and Tricks

Book Your Flight Use Skyscanner to find a cheap flight. They are my favorite search engine because they search websites and airlines around the globe so you always know no stone is left unturned!

Book Your Accommodation You can book your hostel with Hostelworld as they have the biggest inventory and best deals. If you want to stay somewhere other than a hostel, use Booking.com as they consistently return the cheapest rates for guesthouses and cheap hotels.

For suggestions on where to stay during your trip, here are my favorite hostels in Europe !

Don’t Forget Travel Insurance Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. My favorite companies that offer the best service and value are:

• Safety Wing (best for everyone)
• Insure My Trip (for those over 70)
• Medjet (for additional evacuation coverage)

Looking for the Best Companies to Save Money With? Check out my resource page for the best companies to use when you travel. I list all the ones I use to save money when I’m on the road. They will save you money when you travel too.

Want More Information on Europe? Be sure to visit our robust destination guide to Europe for even more planning tips!

Got a comment on this article? Join the conversation on Facebook , Instagram , or Twitter and share your thoughts!

Disclosure: Please note that some of the links above may be affiliate links, and at no additional cost to you, I earn a commission if you make a purchase. I recommend only products and companies I use and the income goes to keeping the site community supported and ad free.

Related Posts

Get my best stuff sent straight to you!

Pin it on pinterest.

• Ultimate Guide to the Best eSIM for European Travel
• Travel Resources

Phone plans can be one of the trickiest parts of traveling. This is especially true if your trip involves multiple countries, like when traveling through Europe.

Take it from me; I’ve been navigating international phone plans for five years. While staying in touch with loved ones at home is a top priority, it can be challenging to understand the ins and outs of SIM cards to use while abroad. Enter eSIMs – a foolproof solution for staying connected during your European travels. Furthermore, eSIMs are rapidly emerging as the most cost-effective solution for mobile plans while traveling.

There are many eSIM plans to help you transcend country boundaries and keep you covered while traveling through Europe. No more hunting down physical SIM cards in each new destination and paying a tourist premium.

As someone who lives in Europe for six months out of the year, I can’t emphasize the ingenuity of eSIMs enough. Instead of constantly swapping out my physical SIM card, I never have to worry about phone coverage, even when crossing country borders.  

In this extensive guide, I cover the benefits of eSIMs, compatible phones, buying considerations, and the best eSIM plans for European travel . Keep reading to learn everything you need to know about phone coverage for your upcoming Euro trip.

Table of Contents

Quick Answer: What is the best eSIM plan for Europe?

What is an esim.

An eSIM is a special SIM card that’s digitally embedded into a device through a smartphone application. Unlike traditional phone plans, eSIMs eliminate the need for physical SIM cards, which makes it much easier to stay connected while traveling abroad.  

The main benefit of using an eSIM is that you don’t need to locate and purchase a physical SIM card in each country you travel to. This is especially handy while traveling in Europe because eSIMs often work throughout the geographic continent or countries belonging to the EU. This differs from some physical SIM cards, which are country-specific.

With a European eSIM, you can stay connected while exploring the continent without the hassle of changing phone plans for each leg of your trip. In the next section, we will explore the benefits of using eSIMs in more detail.

Benefits of Using eSIM Cards for European Travel

There are five main benefits of using an eSIM for European travel:

• Eliminating the need for physical SIM cards
• Instant delivery
• Dual SIM capabilities
• Simple to top up
• Wide compatibility with smartphone models

Let’s delve into these benefits in detail to understand why choosing an eSIM for Europe travel is truly worthwhile.

Eliminates Physical SIM Cards

The biggest draw for eSIMs is it eliminates the need for physical SIM cards. If you’ve ever traveled internationally, you’re aware of the hassle involved in tracking down a store that sells SIM cards and deciphering unfamiliar phone plan options, all while trying to avoid being overcharged in the process.

The reality is that most of the time, travelers get conned by international SIM cards riddled with high fees and bad deals. Especially those who don’t speak the local language or are inexperienced travelers. And the worst part is, if you’re traveling in Europe, you may have to go through this process in each new country you visit because physical SIM cards do not always transcend borders.

Eliminating the need for a physical SIM card is the main benefit of eSIMs . Instead of being caught up in the common tourist trap of purchasing physical SIM cards, eSIMs give you instant access to a phone plan at the click of a button. No human interactions or visiting storefronts are required!

Instant Delivery

Instant delivery is another major benefit of eSIMs. All travelers must do is download an eSIM app like Airalo or SimOptions , choose their desired plan, and the eSIM will automatically be loaded onto the phone. After you land in Europe, simply follow the company’s activation instructions, and the plan will be up and running as soon as you hit the ground. 

In other words, eSIMs allow you to skip the waiting times and shipping fees while giving you an instant mobile connection. This is especially handy if you’d like to pre-purchase a phone plan, which you can do with an eSIM but rarely with a physical SIM card. 

Dual SIM Capabilities

Since an eSIM is run through a mobile application, removing the physical SIM card from your home country is unnecessary. As such, you can still access your regular phone number easily while using your European phone plan.

With dual SIM capabilities, you can toggle between your domestic number and your eSIM for access codes and even for checking iMessages. This is especially handy if you have two-factor authentication on your banking or social media apps.

Easy Credit Top-Up

An eSIM makes the process of topping up your phone plan seamless. If you run out of your data or want to extend your plan, all you have to do is log onto the app or website, select the additional credit you’d like to purchase, and it will be instantly added to your account. This removes the need for finding a physical shop to top up your plan, allowing you to purchase more data with the tap of a button.

Wide Compatibility With Smartphones

Finally, European eSIMs are compatible with most smartphones, making it a simple solution to staying connected abroad.

Compatible Phones for eSIMs

Here’s a quick breakdown of the phones that are compatible with eSIMs. 

Compatible iPhone Models

iPhones compatible with eSIM cards include the iPhone XR and any models released after this phone. This does not include the iPhone X. 

Here’s a complete list of iPhones compatible with European eSIMs:

• iPhone XS and XS Max
• iPhone SE (2nd and 3rd generation)
• iPhone 11, 11 Pro, and 11 Pro Max
• iPhone 12, 12 Mini, 12 Pro, and 12 Pro Max
• iPhone 13, 13 Mini, 13 Pro, and 13 Pro Max
• iPhone 14, 14 Plus, 14 Pro, and 14 Pro Max

Compatible Android Models

If you’re rocking an Android, these are the most common models compatible with European eSIMs:

• Samsung Galaxy A34 5G, A54 5G, S23, S22, S21 5G, S20
• Samsung Galaxy Note20, Note 20 Ultra
• Samsung Galaxy Fold, Z Fold 2, Z Fold 3 5G, Z Fold 4
• Samsung Galaxy Z Flip, Z Flip 3, Z Flip 4
• Google Pixel 4, 4a, 4XL, 5, 6, 6a, 6Pro, 7, 7a, 7 Pro, Fold
• Huawei P40, P40 Pro, Mate 40 Pro
• Nokia G60, X30
• Oppo Find X3, X3 Pro, X5, X5 Pro, N2 Flip, Reno 5 A, A55s
• Xiaomi 12T Pro

Roaming Charges and Their Impact on Travelers

You may wonder why you shouldn’t use your domestic SIM card while traveling in Europe; the answer is roaming charges.

Roaming charges are when a phone provider bills you for using your SIM card outside the specified area – typically, the country where you bought the SIM card. Roaming charges are also significantly more expensive than standard phone use charges and can be activated simply by taking your phone off Airplane mode when you land in a new country. 

While you can certainly get hit with roaming charges from your domestic SIM provider (e.g., if you use your American SIM card in Europe), you may also face steep roaming charges if you use a physical European SIM card outside of the European country you bought it. 

For example, if you buy a physical SIM card in France, you may pay hefty roaming charges if you use it in Spain, Greece, Germany, or anywhere outside your specified coverage area. That said, some physical SIM cards work for the EU or the entirety of Europe.

In summary, choosing the right eSIMs helps avoid roaming charges by providing coverage throughout the entire EU or geographic continent rather than a single country. 

Data Speed and Network Quality

When choosing an eSIM plan, it’s important to take note of the data speed and network quality. Since most of the best European eSIM plans do not include calls or SMS texting, you’ll be relying solely on data to keep in touch. Choose a plan with fast data speeds from a reputable carrier to maximize network quality.

Flexibility and Customization of eSIM Plans

Flexibility is one of the most important benefits of eSims. This is especially true if you’re unsure which plan or how much data you’ll need.

Generally, the best eSIM cards will allow you to add more data as needed. For example, if you have an Airablo eSIM and max out your data, you can choose a new plan to top up with, ranging from 1 GB to 20 GB of data. This ensures you stay connected at affordable rates, giving users plenty of flexibility and customization with their plans.

Multi-Country eSIM Plans for European Travel

While some eSIMs are country-specific, the best eSIM plans for Europe cover multiple countries, making them an ideal choice for travelers moving around. 

There are many advantages to purchasing a multi-country eSIM plan, the biggest being that your phone coverage transcends country borders. This reduces the hassle of changing plans and providers whenever you land in a new place.

You can also purchase multi-country eSIMs at a flat rate. This means you only have to pay for your SIM once rather than several times throughout your trip. Say goodbye to steep roaming fees!

The only major downside is that multi-country eSIMs vary in their coverage. While some multi-country eSIMs only cover 20 countries, others (like SimOptions) can cover up to 50 countries. This is why it’s important to read the country-specific details of your eSIM for Europe to ensure you’ll have coverage everywhere on your itinerary. 

Emergency and Customer Support Services

eSIMs should work flawlessly. But if you do run into any issues, it’s important to choose an eSIM that includes great customer support.

SimOptions, for example, has 24/7 customer service through email or telephone. Airalo has a support contact form and an extensive collection of self-service troubleshooting articles to help you independently work through any quick technical issues.

The last thing you want is to be caught high and dry without cell service, especially in an emergency abroad. This is why it’s essential to choose a reliable eSIM provider that will help solve any problems that may arise.

Using eSIM for Travel Outside of Europe

If you’re searching for an eSIM that works beyond European borders, there are many international eSIM options or country-specific eSIMs for destinations worldwide.

Airalo offers local eSIMs for different countries, regional eSIMs for continental use, and global eSIMs that cover 84 countries worldwide. Airalo’s global eSIM is an innovative, cost-effective way to use an eSIM for travel outside of Europe. 

Best eSIM Providers for European Travel

On the hunt for the best eSIM providers for European travel? Here are our top three providers for cellphone coverage in Europe. 

1. Airalo Eurolink Plans for Europe

Airalo is my favorite provider for an eSIM card while abroad in Europe. The company provides a wide range of eSIM plans for traveling that suit long-term nomads and short-term vacationers.

Airalo’s European eSIMs take the form of ‘Eurolink’ plans , which cover 39 countries throughout the continent. There are six Eurolink plans available, offering different amounts of data and time period validity.

Here’s a quick breakdown of Airalo’s Eurolink plans :

Eurolink Plans Available from Airalo

Airalo has plans suited to a huge range of trip lengths and budgets. If you’re traveling Europe for a month or less, the Eurolink plans offer the most economical options for international phone coverage.

The one downside to Airalo plans is they’re data only, which means you get no calling or SMS. This is fine if you plan on using Whatsapp, but it may deter some users who are looking for more than just mobile data. 

If you run through all of your data, topping up is flexible, as you can choose one of Airalo’s plans to add to your initial choice (e.g., if you only need an additional 1 GB of data, you can top up with the 7-day Eurolink plan). 

2. SimOptions eSIM Plans for Europe

SimOptions does eSIM plans for Europe a little differently than Airalo. Instead of putting together their own plans, SimOptions aggregates different eSIMs from providers across Europe. The result is the best-prepaid deals without having to sift through all the phone companies alone.

European Plans Available from SimOptions

Here’s a quick breakdown of the best European eSIM plans from SimOptions .

The plans offered by SimOptions can cover up to 52 European countries. Many also offer talk and text, a major plus compared to other eSIM providers. 

One drawback is the longest plan only covers 60 days whereas Airalo’s EuroLink, which is valid up to 180 days. That said, SimOption is still a dependable and affordable option for short-term travelers headed to Europe. 

3. Nomad eSIM Plans for Europe

A third option to consider is Nomad . Nomad offers two tiers of European eSIM plans: 30 countries and 35 countries. Like most other eSIMs, you can choose the amount of data and term within these plans. 

The 30-country plan includes locations like Iceland and the United Kingdom, which are not included in the 35-country plan. However, the 35-country plan offers coverage in Gibraltar, Holy See, San Marino, and Sweden, which are not covered under the 30-country plan. It’s essential to view the country lists of each plan to ensure you’ll have coverage in all your trip destinations. 

The 30-country eSIM is powered by multiple providers to ensure you get the best service wherever you are. On the other hand, the 35 country plans are powered by Truphone.

It’s worth noting that regardless of which plan you choose, all of Nomad’s European eSIMs are data only, which means there’s no calling or SMS. 

European Plans Available from Nomad

Here’s a quick look at the Nomad’s European eSIM options. The first table compares the different 30 country plans available. 

And here’s the table for the different 35-country plans available.

As you can see, the 35-country plans are slightly more expensive than the 30-country plans to reflect the additional coverage areas. 

One aspect that puts Nomad on this shortlist is its ease of use. The application’s interface is super intuitive, along with clear instructions. It also makes it easy to track the data usage of your eSIM right from the app. 

Activating and Using an eSIM Data Plan in Europe

The following step-by-step guide will walk you through activating and using eSIMs to stay connected wherever your adventures take you.

Step 1: Purchasing an eSIM Data Plan

The first step to using an eSIM is to purchase a plan. 

At a minimum, you should select an eSIM data plan that lasts the duration of your trip and has enough data to keep in touch while on the go. As someone who has extensively traveled in Europe, I also suggest considering a plan that includes basic SMS and calling functionality. This will enable you to stay connected with anyone you are traveling with.

To do so, visit websites such as Airalo or SimOptions . These platforms offer a wide range of plans, allowing you to browse and find the most suitable option.

When it’s time to purchase an eSIM, it’s as simple as choosing a plan that suits your needs and then filling out personal and payment details. You can expect an email with activation instructions shortly after processing your payment.

Step 2: Checking Email for QR Code

Once you pay for your eSIM plan, you’ll receive an email from the eSIM provider. The email will generally contain a QR code that allows you to access the carrier’s app and activate your eSIM plan. 

If you’ve purchased an eSIM before arriving in Europe, it’s important to save the QR code for future use.

Step 3: Installing the Carrier’s eSIM App

To scan the QR code, pull up the email on your computer or a friend’s phone. Then, scan the code with your phone’s camera. Alternatively, there’s typically a quick link for direct download. Both options will take you to the download page for the carrier’s eSIM app. 

Follow the download instructions to access the app to activate your Europe eSIM.

If you’re downloading the app ahead of your trip, it’s essential to wait until you land in Europe to activate your eSIM.

Step 4: Activating Service in Europe

Once you land in Europe, open the app and activate your eSIM. Most eSIMs have a limited number of days available. So, to avoid losing days on your plan, you should not activate your eSIM before your trip.

For example, if you choose a fourteen-day plan and activate it a week before your trip, you will end up losing an entire week of cell coverage when you land in Europe.

To connect to a mobile network in Europe, all it takes is activating your eSIM. However, you may need to wait a few minutes for the service to take effect. If you have any issues connecting, restart your phone.

How Much Mobile Data Do You Need for European Travel?

According to a study on mobile data traffic , North Americans used, on average, nearly 20 gigabytes (GB) of data monthly in 2022. If you’re going to Europe for two weeks, you should be able to easily make do with 10 to 20 GB of data to last for the duration of the trip. 

However, the more data your eSIM plan contains, the higher the price. Since there’s quite decent WiFi coverage throughout Europe, you can definitely opt for a lower amount of data on your eSIM plan, especially if you keep social media scrolling to a minimum. 

It also helps to download an offline map ahead of time so you can navigate without using data. The same goes for music and movies, especially to get you through long travel days without draining your entire plan.

eSIM Support in European Countries

eSIMs are quickly becoming more prominent in Europe, even among the locals themselves. As such, eSIMs can be used in just about every European country.

Here’s a list of the most common European countries that support eSIM cards in alphabetical order:

• Austria 
• Belarus 
• Belgium 
• Croatia 
• Czech Republic 
• Denmark 
• Estonia 
• Finland 
• France 
• Georgia 
• Germany 
• Greece 
• Hungary 
• Italy 
• Latvia 
• Luxembourg 
• Moldova 
• Montenegro 
• Netherlands 
• Norway 
• Poland 
• Portugal 
• Romania 
• Russia 
• Slovakia 
• Slovenia 
• Spain 
• Sweden 
• Switzerland 
• Ukraine 
• United Kingdom

While all these countries support travel eSIMs, you may experience a slight difference in coverage. Because the eSIM carriers differ from country to country, some may provide better service than others. 

In my experience, the carrier Orange is the most reliable regarding support while traveling around France and Spain. Vodafone is also dependable, especially in the U.K., Italy, Germany, and the Netherlands. 

Additional Tips for Using eSIM in Europe

An unlocked phone is key.

To use the an eSIM, it’s essential that your smartphone is unlocked. Unlocking your smartphone means it is not tied to a specific carrier. This enables you to use both eSIM cards and physical SIM cards.

To check if your phone is unlocked, visit your settings and check carrier options under the cellular or networks menu. 

On an iPhone, the cellular menu will display a ‘Cellular Data’ option, which means the phone is likely unlocked. 

On an Android, visit the Networks menu inside the Connections setting and check the available ‘Network Operators.” If your phone displays multiple available networks, it’s likely the Android is unlocked.

To be sure about the status of any phone, the best way to test it is by inserting a new (activated) SIM card and making a call. If the call goes through with the new SIM card, your phone is unlocked and compatible for an eSIM. 

Use WiFi as Much as Possible

The best way to make your eSIM plan last for your trip is limit your data usage when WiFi is available. WiFi is abundant throughout Europe – you’ll find it at your accommodation, many restaurants, and even on some public transportation. Connect to WiFi as much as possible, ultimately saving your precious (limited) data. 

Manage App-Specific Data Usage

It also helps to manage app-specific data usage. For example, watching short videos like TikToks and Instagram Reels uses more data than visiting simple web pages. It’s best to save social media scrolling for WiFi.

Some apps are also available offline, so you can use them without data. These apps include Google Maps, Spotify, and even Netflix, which allow you to download media on WiFi ahead of time to save your data when you use these apps while out and about. 

Pack a Portable Charger

There is nothing, and I mean nothing, as valuable as a portable charger on trip abroad. Long days exploring or lengthy trips mean dead phone batteries by midday. Keep your devices fully juiced up with a portable charger to make good use of your eSIM while in Europe. 

Download WhatsApp Before Your Trip

Most people in Europe use WhatsApp to communicate, so it’s wise to download it before your trip. It’s also worth downloading WhatsApp if you’ve chosen an eSIM that’s data only. Since WhatsApp allows you to message, call, and even video chat, it’s a smart way to avoid having a phone number while traveling. 

Aside from connecting with fellow travelers, many hotels and tour companies in Europe communicate exclusively through WhatsApp, so it’s worth making a profile ahead of time so that you can contact any of your bookings. 

Final Thoughts on the Best eSIMS for Europe

At the end of the day, an eSIM is truly the easiest, most affordable, and most convenient way to get cell coverage while traveling Europe. Instead of stressing about connecting whenever you arrive at a new destination, the appropriate eSIM will ensure you have coverage across country borders.

For a hassle-free and flawlessly connected journey, eSIMs for Europe travel are the way to go. 

???? Ready to Jet-Set on a Budget? ✈️ Maximize your savings with these travel essentials: ✈️ Sky-high Savings: Book budget-friendly flights with Skyscanner . ???? Rest Easy: Find the perfect accommodation on Booking.com or Hostelworld . ???? Travel Light: Store your luggage securely with Bounce . ???? Stay Connected: Grab affordable eSIMs from Airalo or SimOptions . ???? Unforgettable Adventures: Find tours and experiences with GetYourGuide . ????️ Travel Worry-Free: Stay protected with travel insurance from SafetyWing !

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Jane is a seasoned nomad who has been traveling full-time for 5+ years. She currently splits her time between Paris, New York City, and New Zealand, and is well known for always having a smile on her face.

You can keep up with her travels on Life in the Fast Jane .

Related Articles

18 Best Hotels in Downtown Calgary

Best time to visit Buenos Aires: Tips from a Local

Places to visit in Sri Lanka

Featured Articles

Best of canada, best of england, best of new zealand.

What is the Best eSIM for Europe?

Imagine a whimsical European vacation… bouncing between London and Paris via train, devouring delicious Greek dishes in Athens, reviling in a music festival in Berlin, and taking in more historic sites in Barcelona than you can handle. It’s the stuff dreams are made of.

Except it can turn into a nightmare pretty quickly.

When I embarked on my first big road trip across Europe years ago, I ran into a big problem. Really big.

Everything I planned and booked relied on the Internet – my smartphone was a lifeline to the outside world - navigation map, travel agent, translator, currency converter, and more. But buying a local prepaid SIM card in each country just to obtain a few days of essential mobile Internet was exorbitant not to mention a huge waste of time. My limited hours were so precious, and I didn’t want to spend them in a mobile retailer, trying to work out the frustrating complexities of prepaid plans for each carrier.

And relying on a single SIM with roaming data was simply out of my price range.

So, I did the dumb thing. I said “stuff it” and went with no internet on my phone, instead, relying on public wifi hotspots at each stop. It was cheaper, but I ended up in a world of pain over and over again. The stress was unbearable. Google Maps crashed and lost my route (before offline maps were a thing), I struggled to find last-minute accommodation, I couldn’t track down the nearest petrol station when the tank was almost empty, and reading signs in foreign languages was agonising. 

I almost tore my hair out.

Fortunately, the telecommunications industry has evolved a lot since then and there are exciting, new options available today that will make your trip to Europe smoother and easier than ever before.

The most important development is the international eSIM for travel . Yep, you can use a single affordable data plan to reliably roam across dozens of countries in Europe without the need for physical SIM switching.

Let me explain a bit more.

eSIM vs Physical SIM?

Physical SIM cards have been around since 1991. This increasingly smaller plastic and gold card is inserted into your phone so the carrier knows who you are and can route voice, text, and data to your device. 

eSIM, on the other hand, has only been around since 2017. This is a software-based alternative to supersede the old physical cards. It does the same job, just without a piece of removable plastic. The benefit? Switching between carriers is now as easy as pushing a button or scanning a QR code. Not to mention it’s more environmentally friendly.

Why Buy an eSIM for Europe?

I think you can understand why buying multiple physical SIM cards for each country you visit in Europe is a bad idea. There are now physical SIM card options that roam across multiple regions, however, it can mean removing your “home” SIM card.

A travel-friendly eSIM allows you to keep your “home” SIM active while utilising a second active connection in Europe. This can be useful for receiving phone calls from your regular phone number while using a separate Europe data plan from a different carrier.

It’s important to point out that travellers from outside the European Union may find very high charges for data roaming from your home carrier. An eSIM plan designed for Europe will automatically connect you to the best carriers at a fixed low price. No nasty surprises.

Phones Compatible with a Europe eSIM

The number of handset models that support eSIM is growing each year. Check this page for a complete list of phone, tablet, and laptop models that support eSIMs. 

The first smartphone models that supported eSIM were Google Pixel 2, iPhone XS/XR, and Samsung Galaxy S20. iPhone 13 supports 2 active eSIMs at the same time, whereas most others support just 1.

Almost all of these devices support dual SIM so you can either have multiple physical SIM cards or 1 physical plus at least 1 eSIM. 

Before you switch SIM cards, ensure your device is unlocked . Phones purchased from carriers at a small (or no) upfront cost are often locked to the network to ensure the carrier makes money out of you. To find out if your phone is locked, either try to call your carrier’s helpdesk or borrow a friend’s SIM card if they are on a different network. Here are instructions for alternative methods for checking your phone’s network lock status.

Countries in Europe that Support eSIM

Currently, you can use an eSIM in the following European countries: Armenia, Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Georgia, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Ireland, Italy, Jersey, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, and United Kingdom . 

Double-check your selected eSIM provider as the supported countries will vary slightly. For example, some eSIM providers include micro countries and non-continental regions/territories (such as Martinique), or even the USA – chances are you won’t need that if you’re sticking to continental Europe. But this is when it helps to know your travel plans ahead of time rather than leaving them to the last minute.

Compare the Best eSIM Plans for Europe

Now that you’re ready to buy a prepaid eSIM for your upcoming trip to Europe, which provider should you choose? A number of eSIM providers compete for your business and their prices are very reasonable. I’ve compared the best to save you time – looking through their fine print, crawling over their websites for answers in FAQs, testing their online purchasing flow, and sifting through customer reviews. 

The most important aspect of each eSIM plan is the amount of data available (measured in GB) and the length of validity (in days). But also remember to check the list of compatible devices . Personally, I’m fine with no voice and text service on a relatively short trip (1 month or less) – data does the job in conjunction with WhatsApp or Skype.

Here are the best prepaid Europe eSIM plans and providers:

Recommended:

• New in June 2022:  now supports unlimited data plans & eSIM top-ups (first in the industry!)
• Includes: data only
• Compatible with: iOS and Android
• Hotspot tethering: no for most locations, as of June 2022 due to unlimited plans ( see FAQ )
• European countries: 40

5 days, unlimited: $19

10 days, unlimited: $34

15 days, unlimited: $47

20 days, unlimited: $54

30 days, unlimited: $64

60 days, unlimited: $84

Comment: best balance between worry-free data allowance and low pricing, and the only option for power users with unlimited data usage. No need to keep checking your usage!

Discount:  Save 5% on Holafly's eSIMs with our exclusive code " TRAVELWITHBENDER ".

• Compatible with: iOS, Google Pixel
• Hotspot tethering: supported
• European countries: 37

15 days, 1GB: $8.99

30 days, 5GB: $39.99

Comment: ok for very light data usage, but easy to run out of data and not compatible with all Android devices

• European countries: 39

30 days, 3GB: $25

60 days, 5GB: $40

90 days, 10GB: $80

Comment: ok for ultra-light usage over a longer period

Not Recommended:

Ubigi - unreliable support

How Much Data do I Need in Europe?

Each person is different, and the way you use your phone might vary from the next traveller. I’ve been able to ration my phone’s data usage to as low as 2GB per month when I’m very careful. But it’s not much fun. 6-10GB per month offers a lot more freedom. 

• Light users will just browse social media and post the odd image of munching a croissant in front of the Eiffel Tower. 100-400MB of data per day should suffice.
• Mid-range users might download large app updates, browse lots of high-quality images on social media, and stream travel videos on YouTube, so data usage can add up very quickly. Between 300-500MB of data per day should be enough for most travellers.
• Heavy users may tether a laptop and download large attachments for work, or run offsite backups. That could drive up data usage to 500-800MB per day.

Important Europe eSIM Hacks

Can an eSIM be activated abroad?

Most decent eSIM providers allow you to purchase and activate your plan instantly wherever you are. Even better when it’s via an app or a QR code on a website. But just check the details of the activation process as it might require sending you an SMS, and if you do not have roaming activated from your home SIM (or it’s expensive) then you could get stuck.

Don’t delete eSIM if the data plan expires

Check the provider’s policy on deleting the eSIM. Typically, when your data plan expires your actual eSIM is still valid, at least for a period of time. So don’t delete it in case you want to use it again in the future.

Keep an eye on your data balance

You might be used to a large or an “unlimited” data allowance on your home SIM, so tracking your data usage might feel a bit foreign. It’s a good habit to get into. That way you won’t be stuck on a sightseeing tour without any connection to the outside world. Find out how to track your data usage on iOS or Android .

Check the fine print of your home SIM

No one wants “bill shock”. Get familiar with your phone so you know how to activate a specific SIM/eSIM. If your home SIM provides cheap (or free) call/text roaming then it would be worth keeping that active while also using your Europe eSIM just for data. Follow these steps for configuring multiple SIMs on iOS and Android .

Minimise data usage

There are a few easy ways to cut back on your phone’s data usage: temporarily turn off automatic app updates (or only update over wifi), minimise video chat use, limit YouTube/Netflix use, and cache Google Maps for offline use. Also, try turning on data usage limits to receive a notification when you get close to using up your allowance.

The Bottom Line

A European vacation is the perfect time to relax and unwind while experiencing new cultures and delicious food, not to mention delving into fascinating history.

eSIM technology reduces the hassles of switching SIM cards, and saves time tracking down physical mobile retailers in a foreign country. You’ve probably spent a lot on your upcoming European vacation, so don’t waste a single minute of it. 

Simply choose my go-to eSIM provider, Holafly , and your trip to Europe will be one to remember… in a good way.

If you enjoyed this article, you might also like...

• How to Plan a Trip to Europe in 2024
• 74 Best Suitcase Packing Tips - Master Your Luggage Like A Travel Ninja
• Italy By Train: Easy 21 Day Rail Itinerary For 6 Destinations

More posts from Travel Tips

Best Free eSIM Plan for Travel: Try Before You Buy

I’m always looking for travel hacks to save money and get more bang for my buck. I recently came across an established international eSIM provider that has just started offering a…

11 Best Destinations in Southeast Asia for Digital Nomads

Ah, the digital nomad life! Working from exotic locales, sipping coconuts by day and coding away by night. If you're itching to embark on a Southeast Asian adventure while keeping…

Road Trip Comparison: RV Rental vs Tent Camping vs Hotels

I often get asked… should I rent an RV? Let me start off by saying that there’s no one-size-fits-all solution for every traveller. A lot of it depends on personal preference,…

How to Prevent the 34 Worst Travel Problems

I’m not trying to discourage you from getting on a plane – quite the opposite. I want you to return to your home after the trip with a broader perspective of the world, a more open…

Which Carriers Support eSIM in Germany?

Germany is an exciting destination for any traveller. From bustling Berlin to the quaint charms of Cologne, Germany offers something for everyone. Firstly, you'll need a mobile…

What is the Best eSIM for New York with Unlimited Data

For visitors, New York generously offers a dizzying range of activities. But the first thing you'll need is a prepaid data plan for your smartphone. I've compared dozens of options…

How to Find Cheap Flights with eDreams

Discover the steps I use to find cheap flights on eDreams and the 5 reasons why I choose this online travel agency.

Is eDreams Legit & Reliable?

Have you heard of eDreams, but are not quite sure if it's safe to use? Before you spend your hard-earned money with them, let me take you through the story of eDreams and the…

How To Get a UK eSIM for Travellers

Are you planning a trip to the United Kingdom? If you are, congrats! The Land of the Rose Isle has so much to offer its visitors. But before you start packing your bags, there's…

How to Choose an Australia eSIM for Travel

If you’re visiting Australia from Asia, Europe, or North America, then chances are you'll want to use your fancy new smartphone on vacation. But what if you don’t have a local SIM…

Reader Comments...

Nice blog thank you for sharing this information

Thanks for sharing

Holafly does NOT support hotspot.

HOLAFLY does NOT support roaming.

Write Your Comment

Please DO NOT include links, URLs or HTML in your comments - they will be automated deleted and you will waste your time.

HOT: My top 48 photos of 2022 .

My name is Josh and I'm an Aussie who has been travelling the world non-stop for 11 years , and explored 70+ countries so far. I'll help make your next vacation awesome with first-hand guides and essential travel tips.

(click my smiling face to find out more)

Latest Post

17 Things To Do In Bali For Couples

Bali is a haven for couples of all ages. I recently returned to Bali for my 20th visit, and I was inspired to explore parts of the island I had not seen before, as well as revisit…

Travel Hacks

Atlas & Boots

The UK's most popular outdoor travel blog

What is the best eSIM for travel in Europe?

Now that roaming charges are back for British travellers on the continent, we take a look at the best eSIM for travel in Europe

Since Brexit, roaming chargers have returned for British travellers in Europe. Almost all the major mobile phone companies, including Giffgaff, EE, Sky Mobile, Tesco, Three and Vodafone have made contract changes and reintroduced EU roaming charges for UK customers.

Out of the ‘big four’ networks of EE, O2, Three and Vodafone, only O2 has not reintroduced roaming charges. However, even O2 (who we are with) do not cover all of Europe , especially countries in the Balkans such as Albania, Montenegro and North Macedonia . For travellers from further afield such as in the US, Canada or Australia, international fees for using phones abroad can be astronomical.

As such, when we recently took off on a month-long rail trip around Europe, for the first time in years we had to think about how we were going to connect our phones to the internet. We looked at a number of options from wifi hotspots to a pay-as-you-go SIM card but eventually settled on an eSIM.

• What is an eSIM

Best eSim for travel in Europe

Other options, what is an esim.

The best way to connect when travelling in Europe is to use an eSIM: a virtual SIM card. It is much cheaper than using the data roaming options provided by the major networks, pay-as-you-go physical SIM cards or a wifi hotspot device. An eSIM is also far more convenient than any of these methods.

An eSIM works remotely, meaning you don’t have to remove your current SIM card so there’s no risk of misplacing or damaging it or losing your number. eSIMs are actually pre-installed on the majority of devices now and can be activated just by installing an ‘eSIM profile’ of a new provider.

Once you’ve chosen your package, you’ll be emailed a QR code to scan. All you have to do is activate the pre-installed eSIM profile on your device and you’re good to go. The software connects your smartphone to a local mobile network on the fly, letting you quickly sign up for service without having to track down a store or shop.

An eSIM is essentially an evolution of the physical SIM card. Most modern smartphones, tablets and laptops are already installed with an eSIM card and the list of compatible devices is growing. Eventually, physical SIM cards will probably be phased out completely in favour of eSIMs.

In the US, the three biggest wireless providers – AT&T, T-Mobile, and Verizon – have said that a cardless future is fast approaching. With the latest model of the iPhone, Apple stopped including physical SIM cards in the box. In a similar nod to the future, Motorola’s Razr flip phones don’t support physical SIMs at all.

One thing worth remembering is that as an eSIM is a virtual SIM, it does not provide minutes or calltime. As such, it does not include a phone number to make and receive calls. However, it is still possible to make voice and video calls on an eSIM using apps such as WhatsApp, Skype and iMessage. Additionally, eSIMs do not usually allow data sharing or the creation of a hotspot for other devices to connect to.

There are a number of data providers to choose from but we feel the best eSIM for travel in Europe is Holafly eSIM . We’ve used several providers over the years as well as pay-as-you-go SIM cards and wifi hotspots. Having used them in Europe as well as Mexico and Panama , we have now settled on Holafly which also comes highly rated on Trustpilot .

Holafly covers 165 destinations worldwide and offers several eSIM  data packages for Europe  covering over 32 countries including popular destinations such as France, Germany, Italy, Portugal, Spain, Switzerland and Turkey across a range of networks including 3G, 4G and 5G.

We can offer our readers 5% off on Holafly purchases with this coupon: ATLASANDBOOTS

Packages include:

• Unlimited data, 5 days: €19
• Unlimited data, 7 days: €27
• Unlimited data, 10 days: €34
• Unlimited data, 15 days: €47
• Unlimited data, 20 days: €57
• Unlimited data, 30 days: €69
• Unlimited data, 60 days: €87
• Unlimited data, 90 days: €99

The new Holafly app makes the installation process even smoother, helps users track and make their various data plans and provides the option to top up after your plan expires.

Holafly eSIMS also come with 24-hour support in various languages so if you are experiencing technical issues you can reach them by email, through the app’s chat feature or via WhatsApp.

Holafly’s latest eSIM with unlimited data for Europe has the ability to make calls within Europe for up to 60 minutes and receive calls for up to 60 minutes without receiving roaming charges.

Airalo is the second-best eSIM for travel in Europe. They have a wide range of eSIMs available covering short and long-term plans but do not offer unlimited data plans and are poorly rated on Trustpilot.

Nomad eSIM is the third-best eSIM for travel in Europe. They are competitive on price and well-rated on Trustpilot. However, they only have short-term plans (30-day maximum) and cover fewer countries than the two above.

eSIM.net is part of O2 so enjoys a reliable and fast service across Europe and is well-regarded on Trustpilot . However, they only have 30-day rolling or fixed eSIM plans.

Keepgo traditionally only offered pay-as-you-go physical SIM cards but has recently transitioned to eSIMs. They currently only have a limited range of eSIM data bundles. One advantage is their data is not time-limited meaning it’s valid forever.

Orange Zen provide affordable short-term data bundles for travellers to Europe but only has a 14-day option available making them a bad choice for longer trips.

Below you’ll find answers to the most frequently asked questions when it comes to using eSIMs in Europe.

What phones are compatible with eSIMs?

Nearly all modern phones are compatible with eSIMs including the latest models of iPhone, Google Pixel, Samsung, Huawei and Motorola. Likewise, eSIMs work on iOS or Android mobile operating systems.

Does Google Maps work on an eSIM?

Yes, all apps that only rely on data such as Google Maps, email, social media, hotel booking and streaming apps will still work. However, you should keep an eye on your data usage if you are using your eSIM to stream video.

Can I share data with other devices?

Usually, you cannot share data when using eSIMs which means you cannot use the tethering or hotspot features on your smartphone. Always check the technical specs on the product page to clarify.

Are there any security risks with eSIMs in Europe?

Generally, eSIMs are secure. They provide the same level of security as local SIM cards and all reputable eSIM providers should have encryption on their products.

Do eSIMs have poor network coverage?

As eSIMs connect your smartphone to a local mobile network, you should have the same network quality as if you were using a physical eSIM.

How reliable are European eSIMs?

Europe has some of the world’s most reliable mobile networks and as such, eSIMs are also reliable. Always check coverage maps and read user reviews before you select an eSIM.

Is there a global eSIM?

As eSIMs use local mobile carriers, a global eSIM is not yet available. There are regional plans available for areas such as Europe, Asia, North America, South America and the Caribbean.

Do I have to download any software or apps?

No, you don’t have to download any additional software or apps. Some providers have apps to use to make the installation process easier but most eSIMs can be installed manually as well.

Can I make and receive calls using an eSIM?

A data-only eSIM will not be able to make and receive calls. However, it is still possible to make voice and video calls on an eSIM using apps such as WhatsApp, Skype and iMessage. However, some providers such as Holafly’s Europe eSIM now have the ability to make and receive calls.

Can I send and receive SMS/text messages on an eSIM?

Like calls, a data-only eSIM cannot send and receive text messages. Instead, use apps such as WhatsApp and iMessage.

Which European countries don’t support eSIMs?

Coverage can vary but the best eSIM providers have plans for most countries. Belarus, Kosovo and San Marino are not currently covered by the top eSIM providers. However, an Italian plan will probably work in San Marino.

eSIMs are available in all other European countries including Austria, Belgium, Croatia, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, France, Finland, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Russia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Turkey, Ukraine and the United Kingdom.

Can I buy an international eSIM online?

The only way to buy an eSIM is online so they can be bought from anywhere in the world.

Can I activate an eSIM abroad?

Yes. You can activate an eSIM anywhere but it’s best to wait until you actually land in the country so you get the maximum time out of your package. You can install the eSIM before you leave but don’t activate it until you arrive.

Enjoyed this post? pin it for later…

Lead image: Nopphon_1987/Shutterstock

Search results for

Affiliate links on Android Authority may earn us a commission. Learn more.

Planning a trip? Here are the best eSIMs for international travel

Published on April 24, 2024

Traveling is exciting, but dealing with SIM cards can be a hassle. Thankfully, eSIMs (embedded SIMs) are changing the game. You don’t have to put up with long queues for a new SIM or fumble with tiny plastic cards. You can get a local plan while in your country of origin and enjoy seamless connectivity before getting off the plane.

eSIMs are great, but with so many providers, how do you choose the right one? We’ve researched to find the best eSIM for international travel in 2024, whether you’re heading to Europe, Asia, Africa, or Australia.

What is an eSIM?

An eSIM is a digital SIM card that works with a chip built into your device. With a supported phone, you can get started from anywhere. Switching operators is as simple as getting a new carrier, scanning a code, and installing and activating the eSIM. This is in sharp contrast to the plastic physical SIM you have to get from the carrier and insert in your phone to get connectivity.

While eSIMs have been around for a while, they caught everyone’s attention when Apple made the bold move to go all-in on them, ditching the traditional SIM card slot altogether.

eSIMs aren’t just about convenience; they’re also eco-friendly. By eliminating physical cards, eSIMs reduce the amount of plastic waste the mobile industry generates. Plus, they free up space inside your device that manufacturers can use to fit in larger batteries or make it more sleek.

The real game-changer is how eSIMs enable 5G connectivity in devices that struggle to fit a SIM card, like smart glasses and fitness trackers . Their compact size makes them perfect for the next generation of connected gadgets.

Best eSIMs for international travel

We’ve covered some of the best eSIMs for international travel, whether you’re taking the trip alone or with loved ones.

• Local, regional, and global plans
• Customizable plans
• 150+ countries, seven regions
• Some plans support data sharing
• Unlimited data, SMS, and call options
• Covers all regions
• Expensive in Africa and America

Airhub is a global marketplace with eSIMs available in over 150 countries. Thanks to strategic partnerships with local companies, it offers several plans per destination that you can use to browse and, in some cases, send texts and make calls.

Local eSIMs cover over 150 countries. Regional eSIMs cover Africa, Asia-Pacific, Europe, the Middle East, North America, and South America. The Europe regional eSIM, for example, covers 48 countries, while the South American eSIM covers 18 countries. There are multiple global plans covering countries on all continents.

Airhub shows the network you’ll use at your destination. Plus, you can get unlimited data with SMS and voice minutes in certain countries and regions like Europe, North America, and South America. The Africa, Asia-Pacific, and Eurasian eSIMs only offer capped data volumes without voice credits. Meanwhile, the global plans include data-only options and options with SMS and voice minutes.

Prices vary across regions. European and Eurasian plans are generally cheaper, while North and South American plans are more expensive. African plans are not available at the time of writing.

You can get started with Airhub using the company’s website or mobile application. Choose your destination country and prepaid eSIM data plan, and make payment using your credit card, debit card, or PayPal. You’ll receive a QR code to activate your eSIM.

• Flexible, customizable plans
• 200+ countries, seven regions
• Supports data sharing
• Data validity up to 180 days
• Data-only local and regional plans
• Expensive in Africa
• No unlimited plans

Airalo is regarded as the first-ever eSIM store globally and is a top choice for eSIMs thanks to its budget-friendly options and worldwide availability. It offers local, regional, and global eSIMs, with prices varying by destination and local data rates.

Local eSIMs cover over 200 countries. Local USA plans, for example, range from 1–20GB and are valid for 7–30 days. However, there are no unlimited plans.

Regional eSIMs cover Africa, Asia, the Caribbean Islands, Europe, Latin America, the Middle East, North Africa, and North America. The Eurolink regional eSIM covers 39 European countries and offers as much as 100GB of data for 180 days, while the Island Hopper is good for 24 Caribbean islands.

Prices vary across regions. 1GB of data costs $5 for European and American regional plans, $15 for Caribbean, Latin America, and Middle Eastern regional plans, and $27 for an African regional plan.

The global eSIM plans cover 124 countries simultaneously and are perfect for interregional adventures. Local and regional plans only cover data, while global plans may be data-only or include data, calls, and texts.

To get started with an Airalo eSIM, download the app, create an account, select your destination and package, and install the eSIM. Payment methods include credit and debit cards, Paypal, Apple Pay (in some countries), Google Pay, Alipay (via the app), and Airmoney (Airalo’s reward currency).

• Local and regional plans
• Flexible plans with top-up options
• 175+ countries, 11 regions
• Nifty data calculator
• Free SMS and voice minutes via third-party
• Referral-only loyal points
• No global plans
• No African or Middle Eastern regional plans

aloSIM is a Canadian tech company founded in 2022 that offers low-cost prepaid data eSIMs and a nifty data calculator that estimates data usage based on daily activities. This ensures you only pay for what you need.

aloSIM has local plans covering over 175 countries across all continents. Regional plans cover Europe, America, and some parts of Asia, with unique options for Scandinavia and the Mediterranean. However, regional offers are limited in Africa and the Middle East.

The European regional plan spans 34 countries and lets you buy 1–10GB of data for seven to 30 days, with the option to add more if needed. You can get 5GB of data for around $20. If your journey only takes you to the UK, a cheaper UK-Ireland plan that costs $20 for 10GB of data is available. Prices are more expensive in North and South America, with the same 10GB going for $50 or more.

Like Airalo, aloSIM shows you which networks you’ll be connected to and the speed availability before purchasing a plan. You also can’t get unlimited data. While the eSIMs do not include phone numbers for calling and texting, aloSIM offers free numbers with voice minutes and SMS from its sister app, Hushed.

You can get started with aloSIM on the web or mobile app. There are three installation methods: Automatic, QR code, and manual.

• 170+ countries, 11 regions
• Small regional price disparity
• Prepaid SMS plans
• Some eSIMs support data sharing
• Data-only plans

Nomad was founded in 2020 and has headquarters in Silicon Valley. It has local, regional, and global plans.

Local eSIMs cover 170+ countries across all continents. Regional plans include Asia–Pacific, Africa, Europe, the Middle East, North America, and smaller three-country combinations. The global plan covers 109 countries.

You can see which network you’ll be connected to within your destination country and the speed. You can also top up your data when necessary. Note that there are no unlimited plans or options with voice minutes, but you can get separate SMS plans in the US and Canada at $4 for 100 texts lasting 30 days.

Prices vary by region. The European plan costs $5 for 1GB of data for seven days. Prices are similar for American and Asian plans. The African plans are slightly more expensive, starting at $11 for 1GB of data. But this is still significantly cheaper than Airalo’s $27 for 1GB.

• 170+ countries, seven regions
• Two global coverage plans
• Unlimited global and European plans
• Offers eSIMs and physical SIMs
• Pay-as-you-go option
• Pricier in the Middle East and Africa
• No info on destination networks
• Auto-renewal feature
• No data sharing

BNESIM was founded in 2017 in Sheung Wan, Hong Kong Island. It provides eSIMs and SIM cards in several countries and regions, but we’ll focus on eSIMs.

BNESIM offers local eSIM plans in over 170 countries. Its seven regional plans cover Africa, Asia, Europe, the Middle East, North America, Oceania, and South America. It has a global plan for 102 countries and a mini global plan for 56 countries, mainly consisting of North America, Europe, and some parts of Asia.

Aside from its base plans that renew automatically, BNE offers one-time plans with relatively shorter expiration dates and pay-as-you-go plans that never expire. It also provides unlimited European and global data plans with voice minutes — other plans are data-only.

You can top up your plan anytime using the app. However, you can’t see the network you’ll connect to within your destination country.

Local US plans start at €4.36 for 3GB of data lasting a month. It’s cheaper in European countries, costing about €3.96 for the same 3GB in the UK. Prices are higher in Africa and South America, with a rate of around €18.72/3GB and €15.34/3GB, respectively. Regional plans follow a similar pricing pattern.

• 190+ countries and some regions
• Unlimited data plans in several locations
• Small price disparity across regions

Holafly was founded in 2017 and has offices in Ireland, Columbia, Peru, and Thailand. It offers local and regional eSIMs with unlimited data in several locations.

Holafly eSIMs are available in over 190 destinations worldwide. Coverage includes countries, cities like Barcelona, and regions like Asia and Europe. Plans vary widely, with some places only offering fixed data bundles while others have unlimited volumes.

You can get unlimited data at a rate of €6/day and €19/5 days in Australia, Canada, Japan, the US, the UK, and several other places. Prices are slightly more expensive in countries like Nigeria and South Africa, with five days of unlimited data costing €29. The data volume is capped in several other countries.

Finding regional plans on the website is tricky. However, a quick search on the website brought up plans for Asia, Europe, Latin and North America, and the Caribbean.

The Holafly website highlights several details about your purchase, including the available networks in your destination and places that are likely to have high-speed internet. However, the plans are data-only, so you can’t make phone calls or send text messages, except with the Europe eSIM, which gives you 60 minutes of normal voice calls.

Holiday eSIM

• Regional and global plans
• Great European coverage
• Plans include calls, SMS, and data
• Poor coverage of other regions
• Poor website design

Holiday eSIM is a top choice for travelers heading to Europe. Thanks to robust connections in nearly every European country, you can enjoy high-speed data wherever you are.

Holiday eSIM includes a French number in your plan, a rare find among eSIM providers. Its most popular plan costs £17.50 for 12GB of data in Europe, unlimited calls and texts in Europe, and 30 minutes and 200 SMS from Europe to anywhere in the world. There are other plans as well.

While its major offerings cover Europe, Holiday eSIM has Asia-only plans covering several countries. Aside from these two regions, every other location is part of a global plan that covers parts of Europe and other continents.

Thanks to the user-friendly Orange Holiday app, installing the eSIM is simple. Download the app, install the eSIM, and you’ll automatically connect to the strongest local European mobile network. However, the Holiday eSIM website interface leaves a lot to be desired. Navigating through plans is challenging, especially if it’s your first time.

Should you get an eSIM?

One of the most incredible things about eSIMs is their flexibility — you can store multiple eSIMs on your phone (up to eight or more in some cases) and activate them as needed without worrying about extra roaming charges.

If your current network offers free roaming, you might not need a travel-specific or local SIM. But if not, the hassle of finding a new operator and dealing with language barriers can be a real headache.

Security-wise, eSIMs have a leg up on physical SIMs. Since they’re not removable, they’re practically impossible to lose. And if your phone goes missing, tracking it through the eSIM is much easier than with a physical SIM that the perpetrator can remove.

While international roaming works the same way with physical and eSIMs, the real advantage of eSIMs is their flexibility. You can have multiple eSIMs from different countries saved on your device, making it a breeze to switch between them when you’re hopping from one country to another.

The best part? Switching between eSIMs is as easy as buying and activating a plan online. There is no need to juggle physical SIM cards or worry about losing your old number.

Which phones support eSIMs?

To use an eSIM, your phone must support the technology and be unlocked (not tied to any carrier). We’ll cover a list of phones with built-in eSIM support and how you can check if they’re unlocked.

To see if your iOS device supports eSIMs and is carrier unlocked:

• Go to Settings > General > About .
• Scroll down to Carrier Lock . If the device is unlocked, it will show No SIM restrictions .
• For iOS 15 or higher, scroll down to Available SIM . For earlier versions, look for Digital SIM . If your phone supports eSIMs, it will display a 15-digit IMEI number.

Here are the iPhone models that support eSIMs:

• iPhone XR, XS, and XS Max
• iPhone 11 series
• iPhone 12 series
• iPhone 13 series
• iPhone SE 2 and 3
• iPhone 14 series
• iPhone 15 series

Here are the iPad models that support eSIMs:

• iPad Pro 1st generation and newer
• iPad Air 3rd generation and newer
• iPad 7th generation and newer
• iPad Mini 5th generation and newer

To check if your Android phone supports eSIMs:

• Go to Settings > Network & Internet .
• Tap on eSIM cards .
• Your device is compatible if you see the “Download a SIM instead?” option.

You can also check for an EID (Embedded Identity Document) number by dialing *#06#.

Some popular high-end Android phones that support eSIMs include:

• Samsung Galaxy S20 series and newer
• Samsung Galaxy Note 20 series
• Samsung Galaxy Fold series
• Samsung Galaxy Z Flip series
• Samsung Galaxy A54 5G
• Google Pixel 4 series and newer (and older Google Fi Pixel phones)
• Google Pixel Fold
• Xiaomi 12T Pro and 13 series
• Oppo Find X5 series
• Huawei P40 series

This list is not exhaustive, and compatibility can vary based on where the device was manufactured. Check with your manufacturer to confirm.

Types of eSIMs

There are two main types of eSIMs: data-only and data with SMS and voice credits. Which one should you choose?

• Data-only eSIM: As the name implies, a data-only eSIM only works for browsing. It connects you to major networks in your destination country so you can surf the web and use your favorite apps. While you can’t make phone calls with it, you can leverage apps like WhatsApp to speak with others over the web.
• Voice, SMS, and data eSIM: This option is perfect for those seeking the whole package — calling, texting, and browsing. It usually comes with a separate phone number for this purpose. While most providers give you a fixed number of SMS messages or call minutes, some add this for free. Meanwhile, most unlimited data plans come with unlimited calls and texts.

Two Tickets Anywhere

Digital Nomad Tips, Guides & Resources

5x Best eSIM For Europe Travel In 2024

Category Digital Nomad Updated on February 14, 2024

Traveling to Europe?

Get yourself a Europe eSIM instead of a traditional tourist SIM Card.

Here’s why:

You can buy an eSIM for Europe before you leave your home country and install it as soon as you arrive at the airport. It doesn’t get much more convenient than that!

Plus there are a ton of extra benefits that eSIMs offer, making your travels that much easier.

Over the last 3 years, we’ve used and tested 11 different eSIM providers in Europe…

Spoiler Alert: They aren’t all as good as they claim to be.

The best eSIM for Europe is the Airalo Eurolink eSIM . They have a good range of affordable plans and excellent coverage across Europe.

Want unlimited data for Europe?

Holafly has the best Unlimited data eSIM for Europe. The installation process is easy, you get unlimited data and they have the best 24/7 customer service.

But I know that every person is different:

The right eSIM for you will vary depending on your destination and duration of stay. We’ve reviewed and compared the 5 best eSIMs for Europe travel below to help you get the right one.

I’ve also explained how to instantly check if your phone is eSIM compatible and how to install an eSIM.

Let’s jump in!

5x Best eSIMs For Europe

What is the best eSIM for Europe?

These are the best eSIMs for Europe travel right now:

• Airalo Eurolink – Best eSIM for Europe Overall
• Holafly Europe Unlimited  – Best Unlimited Data eSIM For Europe
• Nomad Europe eSIM – Best Mid-Tier Europe eSIM Prices 
• Airhub Europe 20GB  – Best Range Of Data Plans For European eSIMs
• Ubigi Europe 50GB – Best Europe eSIM For Unique Situations

Here is a quick comparison of each Europe eSIM you can see the difference:

As you can see, the best eSIM for Europe will depend on where you are traveling, how much data you want and your budget.

To help you out, I have broken down each of the best eSIM mobile providers for Europe below to help you decide which one is right for you.

1. Airalo Eurolink Europe eSIM: Starts From $5.00

The Airalo Eurolink is the best eSIM for Europe overall!

It works in 39 countries across Europe and starts at just $5 for 1GB of data.

We use the Airalo Eurolink eSIM most when we visit Europe. It offers great coverage in each country, high-speed data and you can choose from a duration of 7 days all the way to 180 days.

You can also buy as little as 1GB all the way up to 100GB.

This means that their Eurolink eSIM plan will suit almost anyone with a variety of plans, whether you are staying in Europe for a while or just dipping in for a quick holiday.

Here’s a full breakdown of how much the Eurolink data plans cost and what’s included:

Not bad, right?

And remember the data is valid in a massive 39 countries right across Europe! It also makes the Airalo Eurolink eSIM one of the most affordable Europe eSIMs you can get with the best coverage.

Are there any downsides?

The only downside is that Airalo Eurolink doesn’t offer a mid-term European data plan valid for 14 days. It also doesn’t include any phone calls, phone numbers or SMS.

For most people – this won’t matter! But it’s something to keep in mind.

Airalo Eurolink eSIM Features

• Price: $5 to $185 (check price here)
• Data: 1GB to 100GB
• Data Tethering: Allowed
• KYC ID Verification : Not Required
• Service Speed: LTE/5G
• Texts/SMS: No
• Plan validity: 30 day
• Phone Number: None
• Coverage : 39 Countries in Europe
• Phone App: Yes – IOS & Android

Airalo also has the best eSIM app we’ve used. It’s one of the reasons that we use and love them so much while in Europe.

With the Airalo app you can buy an eSIM, top-up your current plan, track data usage and even chat with customer support.

It is the best eSIM app for Europe and allows you to manage everything on the go. There is no need to go through the hassle of pulling out your laptop just to check your data usage!

Airalo Discount Code

Click here to get your Airalo Eurolink eSIM.

For new Airalo customers save 15% using Airalo discount code “TTA15” at checkout.

For existing customers save 10% using Airalo discount code “TTA10” when checking out!

If you want to learn more about Airalo, make sure you read our complete Airalo review .

2. Holafly Europe eSIM Unlimited: Starts From $19.00

Holafly’s Unlimited Europe eSIM is perfect for those data-hungry Europe travelers.

You get unlimited data in 30 European countries starting from just $19.00 for 5 days.

We recently used the Holafly Europe eSIM as we visited Austria, Netherlands, Belgium and France on a 3-week trip. I was really impressed with the fast data speeds and excellent network coverage.

I have an iPhone 14 pro and the 5G network was available in all four countries. Even as we crossed the border from the Netherlands to Belgium on the train, there was no downtime in data as the eSIM automatically changed networks.

This was really impressive!

The other thing I love about the Holafly Europe Unlimited eSIM is that you get an Austrian-based (+43) phone number. That number allows you to make and receive calls in Europe for up to 60 minutes.

This is a unique feature of the Holafly Europe eSIM that most other European eSIMs don’t provide.

How much does it cost?

The price you pay depends on the number of days you need the eSIM. Here’s what’s included and how much you will pay for Holafly’s Unlimited Europe eSIM:

Personally, I think that Holafly offers really good value for money.

The biggest advantage to Holafly (aside from unlimited data) is that the European regional plan includes 30 countries and a 5G network connection in select countries. This is pretty unique!

And the fact that their plans start at $19 makes them affordable for what you get.

Is there any catch?

The only downside to Holafly is that you can’t use the data to tether/hotspot. That means you can’t connect your computer to your phone and hotspot off the data connection.

There is also a fair use policy that comes with the Holafly eSIM Europe plan . That means if you use a lot of data in a short period of time, they might throttle and slow down your internet speed connection. If this does happen, the speed is generally reset at midnight.

We never experienced data throttling and used quite a lot of data!

Like most other European eSIM providers on the list, Holafly has a good phone app where you can buy and manage your eSIM plan. It offers a good user experience in a simple-to-use, minimalist style.

Holafly Unlimited Europe eSIM Features

• Price: $19 to $99 (check price here)
• Data: All Data Plans Are Unlimited
• Data Tethering / Hotspot: NOT Allowed
• Service Spe ed: 4G/LTE/5G
• Calls: Yes, 60 Minutes
• Plan validity: 5, 7, 10, 15, 20, 30, 60, 90 Days
• Phone Number: Yes, Austrian (+43)
• Coverage : 30 Countries in Europe
• Phone App: Yes, IOS & Android

If you consume a lot of data and would benefit from the unlimited, then Holafly is an excellent option. They have great network partners, so you always get the fastest connection wherever you are!

Holafly Discount Code

Get 5% off your Holafly eSIM by clicking here or use Holafly discount code “TWOTICKETSANYWHERE” at checkout.

Want to learn more about Holafly? Read through our complete Holafly eSIM review to see how it performs in a number of different countries.

3. Nomad Europe Data eSIM: Starts From $5.00

Nomad eSIM is another one of our favorite eSIM providers that offers prepaid data plans in over 100+ countries around the world.

If there was a close second to Airalo, it would be Nomad eSIM .

We highly recommend Nomad because of their incredible user experience and the range of plans they offer eSIM users – especially in Europe.

Nomad offers single-country eSIM plans for Europe and also an excellent range of European regional plans to choose from.

Here’s how much you can expect to pay and what’s included in the Nomad European eSIM packages:

What I like about Nomad is that their Europe plans can be broken down into 2 main categories:

• 31 countries
• 35 countries

Both of those plans are provided to Nomad by 2 different partners. The good news is that if the 31-country plan has all the countries you are visiting, you can potentially save yourself some money. For most people, it should be fine!

But if you need those few extra countries or more data, Nomad has you covered!

In my opinion, Nomad also has the best phone app to buy and manage your eSIMs. Their installation is easiest to follow and the app just works well.

I also like the user interface more than other providers.

Nomad has incredible customer service, so if you find yourself in any trouble, you can reach out to their team for help.

Nomad is one of our most used eSIM providers worldwide because of everything they offer. You will get good performance and data speeds relative to if you purchased a physical SIM card from a local data provider.

It’s definitely worth checking out the Nomad Europe regional eSIM plans to see if they will suit your European travel!

Want to learn more about Nomad?

Make sure that you read through our complete Nomad eSIM review to see everything they have to offer.

4. Airhub Europe 20GB: $32.00

Airhub might be the most underrated eSIM provider in the world right now.

Because they have an incredible amount of data, voice and SMS plans in over 200+ countries and regions around the world.

What else could you want, right?

We have tested many of the top eSIM providers and Airhub is consistently up there with the best. I am generally on top of the international travel eSIM market and almost no one is talking about Airhub’s international data plans, which is ludicrous.

Anyway, I digress!

What sets Airhub apart from the rest is the choice of plans they offer. You can buy tons of single-country plans for individual European countries or you can take advantage of their complete Europe regional eSIM.

They are the only company on this list to offer a 1+ year Europe eSIM plan! Some of their European eSIM packages even include texts and calls within the UK. You can see why I love Airhub so much!

Here’s a brief breakdown of what Airhub offers for their European eSIM plans and how much they cost:

Note – This is only a sample of all the Europe eSIM plans that Airhub offers. Airhub actually offers 25 different Europe eSIM plans which would have been too long to list.

Firstly, you can see that the Airhub plans vary a lot in price, data included, countries/regions covered and length. The thing to be most aware of with Airhub is the countries that are included in the plan. Each one is different so you need to double-check before you buy.

If you are staying in Europe for a while, make sure you check out the Aihub eSIM 180-day and 1-year plans! They offer really good value and you can even get a monthly data plan that automatically renews if that suits you better.

Cool, right?

Airhub also has a decent app that you can use to buy and manage your eSIM on. It’s not quite as good as Airalo and Nomad, but it does work really well.

They are seriously an underrated eSIM provider for Europe and the world in general!

Make sure that you use special promo code AHTTA3 to get a 3% discount on your Airhub eSIM order at checkout.

Interested in learning more about Airhub?

Make sure that you read our full Airhub eSIM review to see why we recommend them so much.

5. Ubigi Europe 50GB: $69.00

Ubigi is another popular global eSIM provider that has some really interesting plans.

They have become a big brand in the eSIM space with coverage in 190+ countries worldwide.

Do you remember that person in your class at School who was super smart but did the most unusual things? That’s Ubigi in the eSIM world.

What I love about Ubigi is that they have created a range of plans to really suit any budget.

Here’s what I mean:

One of Ubigi’s plans includes 500MB of data, costs only $2 and is valid for 1 day. Crazy, right?

But this plan is perfect if you literally have a stopover for a few hours in Europe and just want a little bit of data to connect online. See – weird, but smart. It’s these kinds of offers that mean Ubigi makes the list of the best eSIM for Europe.

So what are their other plans?

Like all the other providers, Ubigi offers single-country plans for most countries in Europe. But they also have a couple of great European eSIM plans that cover multiple European countries and are where you will get the most value for money.

Here’s how much the Ubigi European plans are and what you get included in them:

Note – This is also just a sample of the European eSIM plans Ubigi offers. You can check out their full list on the Ubigi website for more info.

If you are just traveling to specific parts of Europe like Scandinavia or Eastern Europe, Ubigi has created plans just for those sub-regions. The benefit of these is that they are often way cheaper, so you only pay for what you need.

That’s ideal!

They even went as far as to create an eSIM plan called “SKI PASS”. It includes 100GB of data for 120 days and costs $99. As for the countries, it’s valid in:

• Switzerland

Again – It’s weird but smart. Truthfully I love the unique offerings and innovation they are bringing to the European eSIM market!

Ubigi also has a good app to manage all of your eSIM needs. It’s relatively easy to navigate and find what you are looking for. If you get stuck, Ubigi has a good reputation for delivering the customer service you would expect!

Make sure you check out the huge range of plans they have to see if they have one that suits your purposes better.

What Is An eSIM?

An eSIM (also known as eSIM cards) stands for Embedded Subscriber Identity Module. It is a digital version of a traditional physical SIM card that is installed directly on your phone using a digital code.

Instead of inserting a physical card into your device, an eSIM allows you to store multiple cellular plans digitally on your phone. This makes switching between carriers or data plans easier and more convenient, especially while traveling internationally.

It also eliminates the hassle of purchasing a local SIM card in each country you visit. Most of the best eSIM providers don’t require you to submit your passport or other sensitive data either. This is a huge benefit!

It’s never a great feeling to give your passport in a foreign country while buying a physical SIM card from some small booth.

The truth is that eSIM technology has changed how we connect online and has added a massive benefit in convenience for travelers.

The best eSIM providers even allow you to buy and install your eSIM for Europe before leaving your home country! Then when you land at the airport, just activate your plan and away you go.

It doesn’t get much better than that!

How To Choose The Best Europe eSIM For Your Trip

When selecting the best Europe eSIM for travel, there are a couple of factors that you need to consider. These are the top ones you need to think about:

Country Coverage: This is the most important factor to consider. Don’t assume because it says “Europe” that it covers all the countries in Europe. Double-check exactly which countries are covered before you buy.

Data Allowance: Assess your data needs based on your usages, such as browsing, social media and streaming. Then you can make a good estimation of the amount of data you will need to buy.

Validity Period: Consider the duration of your trip to select an eSIM plan with a suitable validity period. Plans can range from 1 day to 1 year, depending on the European carrier you are using. Validity is a big factor in price, the more days you have, the more you pay.

Cost: Compare eSIM providers’ pricing to find the best deal for yourself. We have accounts on a ton of different eSIM platforms so that we always get the best deal. In most cases, we can usually find the right plan to meet our needs between Airalo and Holafly .

Data Sharing : Some eSIM prepaid plans don’t support hotspots or data tethering. Double-check the terms and conditions before you buy the eSIM if this is important to you. In most cases, it’s only the unlimited mobile data plans that don’t support it and have “fair use” policies.

The best eSIM for Europe will come down to your own personal needs and travel plans.

Don’t be afraid to shop around a bit and even sign up with multiple eSIM providers so you get what you want!

Pros & Cons Of Europe eSIMs

eSIM plans in Europe have a ton of pros.

But there are some downsides as well. Here’s a list of pros and cons before buying your European eSIM data plan.

Europe eSIM Pros

• No need for a physical SIM card
• No paperwork or passport is required to setup
• Flexible plans for different parts of Europe
• Have multiple eSIMs at once so you can stay connected in different countries without any issues
• Way more cost-efficient compared to roaming charges
• Easy setup and activation process
• Better security and privacy as the data is stored digitally instead of physically

Europe eSIM Cons

• eSIMs cost more than buying a physical European SIM card
• Limited device compatibility can be an issue
• Requires a bit of basic technical knowledge to install

The pros of European eSIMs far outweigh the cons. The flexibility they offer, combined with the fact that you can buy it before your trip, is unbeatable.

The truth is that eSIMs are way more convenient than traditional SIM cards, which makes them a no-brainer for Europe.

Our Favourite eSIM For Europe

Just looking for the best eSIM for Europe?

The best eSIM for Europe is Airalo Eurolink .

Airalo has a wide range of European eSIM plans that will suit almost anyone. You can buy regional European eSIMs or single-country, depending on your needs.

With Airalo, you also get a great phone app that allows you to buy, install and manage your eSIM from almost anywhere. It’s easy to use and means you can manage your eSIM plans on the go!

But one of the other reasons we recommend Airalo is support and customer service! You can contact customer support directly inside the app and in our experience – they are always willing to help.

Airalo has also worked to create partnerships with local companies in tons of countries across Europe which is why they offer such good value for money. Don’t forget to check out our complete Airalo review to learn more.

Ready to get started with Airalo?

Order your Airalo Eurolink eSIM here .

How To Check If Your Phone Is Compatible For With eSIM Technology

There are 2 things you need to check before buying an eSIM:

• Is your phone unlocked?
• Is your phone eSIM compatible?

In the United States, most devices purchased from major internet and phone providers like AT&T and T-Mobile are locked by default. Contact your current data provider to see if your device is unlocked.

iPhone user?

You can see if your iPhone is unlocked right now:

• Click on Settings > General > About
• Now scroll down until you see the “Carrier lock” section
• If it says “NO SIM restrictions,” your phone should be unlocked

If your mobile phone isn’t unlocked, you won’t be able to install an eSIM. So make sure you check first.

Next, you must check if your phone model is an eSIM compatible device.

Here’s a brief list of eSIM-compatible phones:

• iPhone XS & XR or later
• Samsung Galaxy S20 or later
• Samsung Galaxy Fold &Z Fold
• Google Pixel 3 & 3XL or later
• Huawei P40, P40 Pro & P50 Pro

Check our complete eSIM compatible phones list to see if your phone supports eSIM technology.

How To Buy & Instal An eSIM For Europe In Less Than 5 Minutes

Ready to buy your own eSIM?

Here’s how it works:

Choose your favorite provider from the list. We recommend starting with Airalo , but Holafly is also a good option if you want unlimited data for Europe. The setup process is pretty similar.

Look through the list of eSIMs plans Airalo offers for Europe and choose the one that best suits you.

You will now be prompted to sign in or sign up. Sign up for an account on Airalo.

Now choose your preferred payment method and complete the order.

What happens next?

After purchasing the eSIM plan, you’ll receive an email containing the eSIM QR code and instructions on installing it. Keep the QR code handy, as you’ll need it when setting up the eSIM on your device.

You can also download the app and log in to your new account to access the eSIM there.

If you are heading overseas to Europe now, buy your European eSIM before you leave. Then you can activate it when you arrive at the airport in your destination country.

Buy your Airalo eSIM here .

Wrapping It Up

Getting an eSIM for your Europe trip will make your life way easier and more convenient.

They offer the flexibility you need to make your trip more enjoyable. Plus, you can purchase your eSIM for Europe before you leave, so you can have data almost as soon as you land.

When it comes to selecting the best eSIM for your Europe trip, make sure you consider your:

• Duration of your trip
• Countries you plan to visit

This will impact the right eSIM for you!

We recommend buying an eSIM from Airalo because they have a good range of options to suit a wide range of people.

If you need a lot of data, then it’s also worth checking out Holafly’s data packages . They even have unlimited eSIM data plans for most countries in Europe.

The best eSIM for Europe ultimately comes down to what you want and need. The good news is that you have a lot of choices to make sure you get the best deal!

Frequently Asked Questions

Which eSIM Is Best For Europe?

Airalo offers the best eSIM for Europe. They have the best plans for travelers heading to Europe and affordable prices. It takes less than 5 minutes to buy and set up your eSIM correctly and if you run into any issues, Airalo customer support is there to help. Airalo is one of the most trusted eSIM companies in the world, with eSIM plans in over 200+ countries and regions.

Are eSIMs Available In Europe?

Yes, eSIMs are widely available in Europe. Many European countries and mobile network operators support eSIM technology, making it easy for travelers to purchase and use eSIMs during their trips. The best thing to do is buy an eSIM from a trusted company like Airalo or Airhub before traveling to Europe, so you can activate it as you arrive at the airport.

What is the best eSIM card for Europe?

The best eSIM card for Europe is the Airalo Eurolink eSIM . You get can up to 100 GB of data and the eSIM card works in 39 countries across Europe. The best part is that Eurolink eSIM plans start from as little as $5 and are valid from 7 days to 180 days depending on your needs.

Sunday Suitcase Newsletter

A newsletter for digital nomads! Each Sunday you'll receive an email with the latest nomad news, digital nomad lifestyle tips, new destination guides and work online tips to ease you into your week.

You’ll Also Love

How To Get From Lisbon Airport To City Center In 2024

Say hi on instagram.

Follow The Journey In Real-Time @ TwoTicketsAnywhere_

• DIGITAL NOMAD
• WORK ONLINE
• DESTINATIONS

A newsletter for digital nomads! Each Sunday you'll receive an email with the latest nomad news, digital nomad lifestyle updates, new destination guides and work online tips to ease you into your week.

• PRIVACY POLICY

Copyright © 2024 Two Tickets Anywhere

Best eSIM for Europe Travel in 2024 (eSIM Data Plans Guide)

THIS POST MAY CONTAIN COMPENSATED LINKS. FIND MORE INFO IN MY DISCLAIMER.

Home » Best eSIM for Europe Travel in 2024 (eSIM Data Plans Guide)

After the best eSIM for Europe travel in 2024? We got you covered!

Exploring Europe is an incredible experience, with its stunning destinations that span from the breathtaking Mediterranean coastlines of Greece and Italy to the scenic landscapes of Switzerland , Austria , and Poland , to mention a few.

This diverse collection of European countries truly offers a captivating and unforgettable travel opportunity.

One thing that many travelers may not realize is that having an eSIM can be extremely beneficial when planning a trip.

What is an eSIM?

An eSIM (Embedded Subscriber Identity Module) is a portable form of SIM card for mobile devices, such as smartphones and tablets.

It allows you to have access to data plans from different providers in over 180 countries worldwide, including in Europe.

On top of being able to access different carriers, you also have the ability to switch between them without having to swap out your physical SIM card each time – saving you time and money.

🏆 BEST eSIM for Europe

Don’t have time to read the whole article? The best choice for the European eSIM is: Holafly eSIM Europe

The most important aspect of finding the best eSIM provider when traveling in Europe is coverage.

With so many options available it can be hard to know which company is best suited for your needs and what data plan works best for your budget. That’s why we at Wanderlust Storytellers have done all the legwork for you and compiled a list of the best eSIM providers in Europe.

Our reviews provide an unbiased overview of each provider’s coverage, pricing plans, and more so that you can make an informed decision when selecting your eSIM provider.

With our help, you can easily find the perfect eSIM provider for your European travels – giving you all the benefits of an eSIM without any of the hassle.

So let us take you through our recommended eSIM options so that you have the perfect data plan to keep you connected along the way!

Quick Guide: Best eSIM for Europe Travel

After a quick list of the top eSIM for Europe? Here are the best eSIM Europe options:

• Cross-countries unlimited data plans
• Chose from 5 to 90 days of coverage
• 24/7 customer support

• 30 or 35 countries plan options
• 1-20GB plans 7-30 days coverage
• No calls/texts, it is data only eSIM

Bouygues My European eSIM

• Coverage in all 52 countries
• 30GB for 30 Days 4G/LTE
• Unlimited calls/sms within Europe

The 15 Best eSIM for Europe

Here is your guide to the best eSIM for Europe travel for your family. Your only task is to choose one!

1. Holafly eSIM Europe (Unlimited Data Plan)

• User Rating: 4.7 Stars
• Data: Unlimited data
• Valid For : 5-90 Days
• Service Speed: 4G/LTE/5G like a local data line
• Phone Calls: Includes calls within Europe
• SMS Text: Only on WhatsApp or iMessage apps
• Local Phone Number: keep your traditional cards for making or receiving phone calls (we get a pre-paid local card for backup)
• View Plans and Prices on  Holafly

Getting a Holafly eSIM is a breeze! With just a few clicks online, you can snap one up and get it activated in minutes.

It’s a prepaid service, so you can grab your unlimited plan in advance and activate it whenever you reach your destination.

Plus, this nifty eSIM seamlessly switches between network providers as you hop across countries.

And the best part? Holafly’s eSIM service is way more budget-friendly than those pricey international roaming plans.

Keep your WhatsApp number and local SIM card connected to your cell phone hassle-free, so that you can receive calls.

Need a helping hand? Holafly’s got you covered with their super helpful 24-hour customer support via email and even quicker responses on WhatsApp.

When we were traveling in Europe, we used the Holafly 60-day Unlimited Data eSIM package, and we had no issue.

Here is the price list , so that you can choose the best eSIM data pack option for you:

5 Days Unlimited Data – $18.87 10 Days Unlimited Data – $33.77 15 Days Unlimited Data – $46.68 20 Days Unlimited Data – $53.64 30 Days Unlimited Data – $63.57 60 Days Unlimited Data – $83.44 90 Days Unlimited Data – $98.33

Take a note here. You won’t receive a local number as the product is for multi-country travel.

You cannot share data with the product, so you cannot hotspot to another device such as a laptop or a family member’s phone.

The eSIM is a data-only service, so you cannot make local or international calls, but WhatsApp and Facetime calls are possible. For that, you’ll need to use your primary card.

Find out if your smartphone is compatible with the Holafly eSIM here.

Check out our detailed Holafly eSIM for Europe review here.

2. Nomad eSIM

• Rating: 4.4 Star-rating
• Data: 1-20 GB Plans
• Valid For : 7-30 Days options
• Coverage: 30 or 35 different countries plans
• Service Speed: 4G/LTE with possibility of 5G in some spots
• Phone Calls: No calls, data-only plans
• SMS Text: No texts, data only
• View Plans and Prices on : Getnomad.app

Installing and activating the Nomad eSIM on a device is an absolute breeze.

Plus, it seamlessly syncs with a wide range of smart devices, such as tablets, laptops, wearables, and smartphones, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free experience.

Whether you’re on the go or at home, this versatile technology effortlessly integrates into your daily life, making it easier than ever to stay connected and in control.

Nomad’s eSIM marketplace operates globally in over 165 countries. They offer eSIM cards for iOS and Android, available on their online website.

Simply choose the plan for Europe that suits you best and make a purchase, just like we did.

During the one-time registration, the mobile app asks for basic information such as your name, email, and mobile phone number.

Once registered, managing your international data plans becomes effortless from any of your connected devices.

We have also used the Nomad eSIM in Australia. If you are interested, you can check out our detailed Nomad eSIM review here .

CHECK OUT A BONUS SAVING:  Use our referral code ANDR72XE and save $3 off the promo for any data plan.

3. Bouygues My European eSIM

• Rating: 4.2 Star Rating
• Valid For : 30 Days
• Coverage: All Europe (52 different countries)
• Service Speed: 4G/LTE
• Phone Calls and Texts: Unlimited within Europe
• Bonus: 25 Euro credit available for phone calls and texts to international and France overseas numbers are FREE
• Local Phone Number: This eSIM card comes with a French phone number
• View Plans and Prices on:  SimOptions

My European eSIM is the perfect companion for your next trip to Europe.

You get a pretty standard 30GB of high-speed 4G/LTE data.

Stay connected wherever you go, with coverage in 52 awesome countries across the continent. Very cool!

Plus, your My European eSIM also includes unlimited calls and texts within all of Europe, as well as 25 Euro credit for calls and texts to international and France overseas numbers.

With this eSIM card, staying connected while traveling has never been easier!

4. Orange Holiday Europe eSIM 30GB

• Data: 30GB Europe Plan
• Valid For :30 Days
• Coverage: All Europe
• Phone Calls: Unlimited in Europe, 120 Mins from Europe to worldwide
• SMS Text: Unlimited in Europe, 1000 SMS from Europe to worldwide

With this Orange eSIM card, you get a massive 30 GB of data in Europe on 4G/LTE, along with unlimited calls and SMS within Europe.

And wait, there’s more! You also get 120 minutes of international calls to anywhere outside of Europe, plus 1000 SMS messages from Europe to anywhere in the world.

The best part? It comes with a French phone number, so you can enjoy local rates when you make calls.

Just a heads up, after the first 30 days, you’ll need to complete a Know Your Customer (KYC) process as required by French law to keep using the SIM card.

It’s valid for 6 months and can be renewed based on your recharge plan.

But hey, remember, you only get one QR code for this SIM card, so be careful not to delete it, alright?

Oh, and don’t forget to make sure your phone is eSIM compatible before you buy – most modern phones are!

5. Airalo eSIM Europe – Eurolink

• Rating: 3.7 Star Rating
• Data: 10GB of Data Only Plan
• Valid For : 30 days
• Coverage: 39 European Countries
• Service Speed: 5G/LTE
• Local Phone Number: Not available, need a separate SIM for calls
• View Plans and Prices on: Airalo

Airalo’s Eurolink eSIM for Europe is a great choice for travelers who want to stay connected.

This prepaid data-only eSIM comes with a small 10GB of data and can be easily topped up with various plans.

With this eSIM, you’ll enjoy blazing-fast 5G speeds on compatible devices (make sure you have the latest iOS version for optimal 5G performance).

Airalo’s Eurolink covers 39 European countries, and their customer service is pretty good with 24/7 chat support in case you need them.

6. O2 Go Card Prepaid

• Rating: 4.7 Stars
• Data: 10GB Data
• Coverage: 36 Countries
• Service Speed: 4G/5G/LTE
• Phone Calls: Unlimited within Europe
• SMS Text: Not included
• Local Phone Number: This eSIM card comes with a Chech Republic phone number

Planning a to Europe? Say goodbye to roaming worries with O2’s eSIM.

Stay seamlessly connected, effortlessly share your incredible experiences, and keep your loved ones in the loop with 10GB of data.

What’s more, when you top-up for the first time, enjoy an extra US$2 credit.

And if you need to chat with your fellow travelers, take advantage of free calls and texts within the extensive O2 network.

Travel with peace of mind and explore Europe to the fullest! That’s what we all want and the best way to be.

7. Orange Holiday Zen

• Rating: 4.5 Stars
• Data: 12GB Plan
• Valid For : 14 days
• Coverage: 30 EU Countries
• SMS Text: Unlimited within Europe

Orange Holiday Zen eSIM offers a super convenient and budget-friendly way to stay connected while traveling abroad.

This eSIM is great for when you are traveling only for a fortnight.

You get 12GB of high-speed 4G data for 14 days, and you can browse the internet in 30 European countries without worrying about annoying roaming charges.

Plus, with unlimited calls and SMS throughout Europe, and an additional 30 minutes of calls and 200 SMS to anywhere else in the world, this plan is perfect for globetrotters who want to stay connected without breaking the bank.

8. Orange Holiday eSIM 50GB

• Data: 50GB Data Plan
• Coverage: write
• Phone Calls: Unlimited within Europe,
• Local Phone Number: This prepaid eSIM card comes with a French phone number

Planning a European adventure with the fam? Look no further than the Orange Holiday Europe 50GB eSIM!

OK, maybe I got a bit excited, but we do like this one for sure.

This is a decent-size plan eSIM and it’s got you covered with speedy data in 5G/LTE. Might not be 5G everywhere you go though.

Get directions, stream music, watch videos, and use all your fave apps worry-free with the whopping 50GB of data.

You also get unlimited calls and texts within Europe, 120 minutes of calls worldwide, and 1000 SMS worldwide.

No limits on video or other activities, and it works with any device!

Plus, it’s top-up compatible for your convenience.

Just remember, to keep using the SIM after 30 days, complete the Know Your Customer (KYC) process as per French law.

9. Smart Comfort Budget eSIM Europe 5GB

• Rating: 4.6 Stars
• Valid For : 15 days
• Coverage: 30 Countries
• Phone Calls: Not included

The budget option for the eSIM with SimOptions is perfect for those looking to save money while traveling.

Through this service, customers can purchase an eSIM with 5GB of data that is valid for 15 days and can be used in 30 Countries.

Yup, there is no bonus here. This plan does not come with a phone number and does not include any calls or texts.

This makes it ideal for those who need short-term access to the internet while traveling without having to deal with additional costs.

Definitely not the best one for us heavy data users, as it does not have much data, and we spend a tonne of time online.

10. AirHub eSIM for Europe

• Rating: 3.8 Star-rating
• Valid For :30 days
• Coverage: Europe
• Service Speed: 4GLTE
• Phone Calls: Unlimited calls within Europe
• SMS Text: Unlimited texts inbound within Europe
• Local Phone Number: This European eSIM card comes with an optional UK phone number
• View Plans and Prices on:  AIRHUB

AirHub’s eSIM for Europe is like the ultimate hack for travelers wanting to cut down on those annoyingly high roaming bills.

Their eSIMs are super affordable and a breeze to set up, starting at just $11.

You can choose from a bunch of plans and options – unlimited minutes, unlimited data, you name it.

So, you can easily find the perfect plan that suits your needs, no matter how much you rely on your phone while traveling.

And guess what? They’ve got a support team available 24/7 to make sure you’re always happy with your chosen plan.

And if you ever need to switch things up, no worries!

You can do it online or give their customer support staff a call. We like easy, don’t you?

11. SimOptions eSIM Europe 50GB

• Rating: 4.3 Stars
• Valid For : 60 Days
• Local Phone Number: Not available

SimOptions eSIM is great for people who want to chill in one place for a bit without needing calls, texts, or a local number.

You get a whopping 50GB of data that’ll keep you going for a cool 60 days.

So, you’re covered for a good long stretch!

12. Ubigi eSIM for Europe 50GB

• Rating: 4.5-star rating
• Data: 50 GB Data-Only
• Service Speed: 4G/LTE + some 2G and 5G
• View Plans and Prices on :   Ubigi

The Ubigi eSIM for Europe is the perfect solution for staying connected while traveling.

We chose the 50GB plan, as it is a very decent size plan for a 30-day travel in Europe. It’s a bit expensive though.

It offers a one-time data plan that makes it a breeze to top up without Wi-Fi or data credit.

Plus, it provides instant setup in an eSIM-enabled device. If you have any questions or issues during your European travel journey, don’t worry!

English-speaking customer service is available to assist you.

No matter where you go in Europe, Ubigi has got you covered!

You might be swapping from 3G, to 4G and in some countries to 5G as you go.

13. Bouygues Telecom Travel Basic+

• Rating: 4.3 Star Rating
• Data: 15GB Data Plan
• Coverage: 28 Countries

Bouygues Telecom eSIM is an incredibly flexible and cost-effective way to stay connected while traveling in Europe.

With the 15GB data plan, it should last you a little while whilst it’s valid for 15 days.

What we really like about this eSIM, is that it comes with unlimited phone calls and text messages within 38 European countries.

Best of all, this eSIM also includes a French phone number so you can communicate with ease and stay connected to friends, family, or colleagues back home.

So what are you waiting for? Get your eSIM from Bouygues Telecom – it’s the perfect companion for your next adventure in Europe!

14. AloSIM eSIM for Europe

• Data: 1, 2, 3, 5 or 10GB
• Valid For : 7, 15, and 30 days (depending on the plan)
• Coverage: 32 Countries
• Phone Calls: Not applicable
• SMS Text: Not applicable
• View Plans and Prices on:  AloSIM

AloSIM eSIMs offer an ideal solution for travelers exploring Europe and seeking seamless data access.

What we love about the AloSIM, you can choose from flexible data plans ranging from 7 to 30 days, available in 32 European countries.

The AloSIM eSIMs are exclusively focused on data services, without the need for a local phone number, calls, or texts.

Experience the freedom of choice with data plans like 1GB for 7 days, 2GB for 15 days, or 3GB, 5GB, or 10GB for a 30-day adventure.

15. Three (3) PAYG Data Pack

• Rating: 4.8 Stars
• Data: 10GB Data Only
• Coverage: 56 Countries

Yeah, Three (3) SIM Card is not an eSIM but an actual physical SIM card.

But hey, I wanted you to have options, you know?

It’s perfect for those who can’t get an eSIM or simply prefer the good ol’ plastic card.

Just pop it into your device and boom, you’re good to go!

And hey, if you need a physical card for your kid’s iPad or similar, this is a solid choice.

It gives you 10GB of data for 30 days, so no calls or texts, but it’s perfect for their browsing needs.

Oh, and get this – you can use this card in 56 European countries and still get a solid 4G/LTE connection.

Keep in mind, that you can top it up with either a credit card registered to a UK address or THREE UK top-up vouchers.

It may have some limits, but if you want that physical presence and awesome coverage across Europe, this is a stellar choice.

Here are some answers to some of the most commonly asked questions about eSIM for Europe:

An eSIM (embedded SIM) is like a digital SIM card that’s actually in your device. It connects you to a cellular network so you can make calls, send texts, and browse the internet without needing a physical card. Some people also call it an embedded UICC (Universal Integrated Circuit Card), virtual SIM card, or even a downloadable SIM. It’s getting pretty popular in smartphones, but you can also find them in smartwatches, tablets, and other cool gadgets.

When choosing an eSIM for Europe, it can be tough to find the best option. We loved using Holafly eSIM in both Europe and Thailand. Best eSIM plan for sure! We also love and recommend Nomad eSIM services, and our third choice is Bouygues My European eSIM (it comes with a French phone number too). All are easy to install and come with great reviews not only from us.

Choosing the best eSIM provider for Europe can be a challenge. When comparing different providers, it is important to look at the data offered, coverage across the continent, credit validity periods, and of course, price. With a bit of research and comparison between providers in your chosen countries of travel, you can select an eSIM that meets your needs while giving you the best value for money. Additionally, most providers offer customer support so you have help if something goes wrong or if you need additional assistance.

Absolutely! eSIM is a fantastic choice for Europe. We love the fact that it makes accessing multiple networks a breeze, all on a single device. With eSIM, you can keep your mobile network info securely stored right on your device, eliminating the hassle of swapping SIM cards for different countries. In our opinion, it’s the ultimate flexibility for travelers!

We highly recommend the Holafly eSIM. During our recent European trip, we relied on it without any glitches, even when exploring the picturesque Greek islands. It proved to be a seamless and reliable choice and has the best eSIM data plans.

Setting up an eSIM for your iPhone is easier than you think. Open the Settings app, tap Mobile, and then tap Add eSIM. You’ll have two options to get started: use a QR code or enter your details manually. With either method, you should be able to set up your eSIM quickly with no issues.

eSIMs are the perfect technology for travelers who don’t want to worry about carrying physical SIM cards. With an eSIM, you can easily switch between countries and new networks without the hassle of switching out physical cards. Plus, it’s a convenient and inexpensive way to gain access to local data plans while abroad. eSIMs are definitely worth considering for those who frequently travel abroad and need reliable data coverage at all times.

eSIM is 100% better than pocket WiFi if you ask us. The best thing about the eSIM is that it’s cardless and you don’t need to carry anything else apart from your phone. No bulky pocket WiFi, that you need to make sure not to lose.

With an eSIM, you can avoid roaming charges and stay connected during your travels. With a few simple steps, you can install the eSIM and make sure that your phone is set to use only the cellular data on the eSIM instead of roaming. Installing and activating the eSIM is easy – all you have to do is tell the phone to use it on data only.

An eSIM technology is like a digital SIM card that lets you connect to cellular networks without a physical card. Pretty convenient, right? But here’s the catch – each eSIM is tied to one device and can’t be reused. So, if you want to switch devices, you’ll have to get a new eSIM.

Final Thoughts On eSIM for Europe

The eSIM for Europe isn’t just convenient—it’s a money-saver too!

No need to buy SIM cards for each new country you visit, which means big savings when traveling abroad.

Plus, forget about those pesky roaming charges and expensive international calls with an eSIM for Europe.

It’s the perfect solution for globetrotters looking to stay connected across multiple countries, without the hassle of multiple SIM cards.

With just one installation, you’re all set to explore Europe and stay connected, wherever your journey takes you!

Andrzej Ejmont

2024 - Wanderlust Storytellers. All Rights Reserved.

About Us  |  Contact Us  | Work with Us  |  Privacy Policy  |  Disclaimer

* Disclaimer: Wanderluststorytellers.com is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.com and other Amazon sites.

• Travel eSIM
• Install eSIM
• Delivery Options

Loading Cart

The 5 Best eSIMs for Europe in 2024

We know that there may be many reasons why you are looking for the best eSIM for Europe for you – from staying in touch with your loved ones or simply for the joy of sharing your travel experience on social media.

Traveling to Europe is everyone’s dream, especially if you are a fan of European culture and history. There is so much to see and learn in more than 40 countries, that you need to organize your trip to enjoy as much as possible, and also get as many experiences as you can.

Europe is the smallest continent in the world, but it is composed of 44 countries that are waiting for your visit. We all know that something essential while traveling is the availability of being connected all the time.

Using your cell phone during your trip is necessary for many good reasons. To mention some of them: you could continue working far away from home, receiving emails from colleagues, communicating with your friends and family by chat or video, and also using the Google Maps app to find the best places and the best route to get there. How could you do all this without a cell phone?

Now, to be able to use your phone while you are in Europe you will need a SIM card. Of course, you could use the roaming option, but it would be too expensive. Or you could use the free Wi-Fi in some cafés and restaurants, but that would be impractical. So one of the best options is to get a European eSIM , and if your smartphone supports eSIMs , then this article is for you.

Here we will detail the best eSIMs for Europe to use on your next trip:

What Are The Best eSIMs for Europe?

What Is The Best eSIM for Europe?

Orange esim.

Maybe you are not going to be traveling for more than two weeks, or the previous eSIMs are too expensive for your budget. In that case, Orange, which is a French provider, offers two excellent data plans for eSIMs. The two data plans mentioned below include a French phone number with voice-time and SMS.

Let’s see more about these plans:

Holiday Europe eSIM | $ 49.90 - 30GB

• Calls/SMS: Yes
• Credit Validity: 14 days

Holiday Zen eSIM | $ 29.90 - 12GB

Bouygues Telecom

Bouygues Telecom is a prominent telecommunications company based in France. Known for its comprehensive range of services, the company provides mobile, internet, and television services to millions of customers across France.

As part of its cutting-edge technology offerings, Bouygues Telecom is also an active player for eSIM cards within Europe, offering flexible and efficient solutions for individuals. This allows users to enjoy seamless connectivity without the need for physical SIM cards.

Customers have a selection of diverse and competitive plans, catering to various data, call,

Travel Basic+ | $ 23.90 - 15GB

• Calls/SMS: Calls only
• Credit Validity: 15 days

My European eSIM | $ 44.90 - 30GB

• Credit Validity: 30 days

We believe that this eSIM is worth mentioning. The telecommunications provider O2 offers you a “reliable connection to the world and your home”. And when they say to the world, they mean it. The eSIM comes with the features of free roaming in Europe, which means you can use anywhere in Europe, without worrying about paying any additional fee. 

Let’s take a look at the details of this eSIM:

Go Card eSIM | $ 22.90 - 10GB

• Calls/SMS: No

SimOptions has established itself as a leading provider of international SIM card and eSIM solutions in the European market. Offering coverage across a multitude of European countries, SimOptions caters to a diverse range of customers, from frequent travelers to digital nomads.

The company’s eSIM products are valued for their broad device compatibility, easy activation process, and dependable high-speed data services. One of their prominent features is the wide array of tailored data plans, giving customers the flexibility to choose services according to their unique connectivity requirements.

Europe 5GB | $ 14.90 - 5GB

Europe 50gb | $ 69.90 - 50gb.

• Credit Validity: 60 days

Frequently Asked Questions

Do the esims for europe support calls & sms.

A few selected eSIMs for Europe do support calls & SMS and even come with a  phone number (Orange Holiday Europe & O2 Go Card). Other eSIMs from SimOptions are data-only eSIMs. You can choose the right eSIMs for your trip to Europe depending on your personal requirements.

How do I know if my smartphone supports eSIMs?

SimOptions offer and up-to-date list of eSIM-compatible smartphone on the website. You can visit it here and find out if your phone supports eSIMs. Do not forget that it must be carrier-unlocked as well!

How do I activate my eSIM for Europe?

Within seconds of completing the purchase, you will receive an order confirmation with your eSIM details attached as a PDF. It includes the QR code and all relevant details. You can then scan QR with your eSIM-compatible smartphone and start using it immediately. 

Recommended Articles

List of prepaid esim providers.

Published on 16th November 2022

List of eSIM Supported Phones

Published on 23rd January 2022

How To Install an eSIM on iOS

Published on 2nd March 2022

How To Install an eSIM on Android

Best eSim for International Travel: A Detailed Guide

If you travel a lot as I do then you have probably heard of an international eSim card and are wondering whether it is worth getting one.

But, since eSims are relatively new to us all, we don’t know much about them, whether they are useful, and if they are, which of the eSim providers to go with. Let’s work it out.

At A Glance: Our Top 3 eSims for International Travel

• Best Esim Overall Airalo Jump To Review
• BEST Esim FOR EUROPE Holafly Jump To Review
• Two Regional Packages Nomad Jump To Review
• BEST Esim FOR USA Simtex Jump To Review
• Longest Plans For International Flexiroam Jump To Review
• Great Small Plans Know Roaming Jump To Review

In this article, I will run through everything you need to know from what an eSim is to how they work, where they work, what devices they work with, and the top eSim providers to choose from.

By the end, you should know whether an eSim is better for you than using physical sim cards, and the best eSim provider that suits your travel patterns. Let’s dive in!

Top Product Overview

Best esim for international travel.

Airalo is the best global eSim provider and the most popular too.

It offers local, regional, and global plans meaning you can buy an eSim for a specific country, continent, or for the world. Their plans also offer long or short-term contracts, often depending on the size of the data package.

Here are some examples of their Global packages (84 countries):

• $9 – Global – 7 days – 1 Gig
• $24 – Global – 15 days – 3 Gig
• $35 – Global – 30 days – 5 Gig
• $59 – Global – 60 days – 10 Gig
• $89 – Global – 180 days – 20 Gig

So, for me, Airalo is great in terms of flexibility when you travel internationally. They offer local plans for more than 190 countries and their prices are affordable too. Their global plan doesn’t cover all 190 countries but has 84 countries, which is still great.

However, sometimes a local or regional plan is better anyway, as it’s more cost-effective, especially if you are in a specific region for weeks or a month. The only downside is that unlimited data plans are not available.

Buying an eSim is very easy with Airalo. Either on the App on your phone or via their website. You just have to select from local, global, and regional plans on their website or via the App, install your eSim, and activate it. Their customer support is also excellent.

And, one big bonus I have found using them lately is the reminder emails. Some days before expiring, the remind you. Also as your data is getting low (25%).

Airalo 3 days expiry warning

This may not sound like a big deal, but when you are trying to find something on Google Maps and you suddenly find your plan has expired (like I did while trying Nomad this month) then it’s not fun. With Airalo that does not happen.

• Excellent global coverage
• Good customer support
• A range of plans by country, continent, or global
• Short and long-term contracts available
• Easy to set up
• Unlimited data packages are not available

Holafly is another good eSim provider . They offer coverage in over 130 countries and unlimited data packages too which is great, as you can browse all day long without worrying about your data usage. 

But, you can not use the unlimited data packages to a hotspot, which is a shame when you have to head abroad for work.

Setting up Holafly is very easy and fast, and you can choose from local or regional plans but they do not offer global plans. Their plans are affordable, and you can choose between short or long ones.

Customer support can be an issue as their team is small but they will get to you eventually.

Holafly is probably the best eSim for Europe as you can get unlimited data for an affordable price, and the connection is reliable.

• Excellent in Europe
• Quick and easy to set up
• Covers local and regional plans in over 130 countries
• Affordable short and long-term plans.
• Unlimited data plans available
• Unlimited data can not be used with a hotspot
• Not as affordable as Airalo in all destinations
• Global plans are not available
• Speeds vary
• Customer support is inefficient

Nomad is another popular eSim provider and it has solid global coverage which includes 110 countries.

The service is reliable, easy to set up, and generally solid. They offer both global and regional plans. Regional plans include Nordic/Scandanavia , APAC , and Europe but no regional plans in North or South America. Of course, they do have individual countries like the USA , Mexico etc.

The plans are quite affordable but they only allow for short-term plans with a max of 30 days, which isn’t useful for long trips around the world.

Also, no local plans are available for a single country which is just annoying. Plus, the most amount of data you can get on a global plan is 5GB over 30 days which is not enough for most people.

• Coverage in over 100 countries
• You can buy both regional and global plans
• Global plan covers 110 countries
• Quite affordable
• No local plans available
• Maximum plan length is 30 days
• Max data on a global plan is 5GB

BNESIM offers local plans in 170 countries and regional plans for both Europe and Asia. Their service is quick, reliable and they do something other providers don’t.

With BNESIM you can get a monthly contract which brings the price of their nice data packages right down. You can also get unlimited data and even an international phone number.

The only downsides are that they don’t offer global plans or any other regional plans such as Africa or Central America.

READ MORE: Check out our detailed review of BNESIM

• Works in over 170 countries
• Local and regional plans available
• Short and long-term plans
• Monthly subscriptions available with discounts
• Unlimited data packages
• International phone numbers
• Regional plans limited to Europe & Asia
• No global plans

Simtex is a reliable eSim provider that works in over 190 countries. This makes travel abroad a breeze.

You have the option to buy either local plans for an individual country or a regional plan for Europe or Simtex’s Top 40.

Their plans are affordable but not as affordable as other providers. Also, the plans are all short term with a maximum of 30 days available and you can not buy a global plan.

They are great if you are just going on holiday but if you are consistently traveling, you can find better options out there.

Read our detailed review of the Simtex eSim .

• Works in over 190 countries
• Easy to activate
• Offers local and regional plans
• Regional plans limited to Europe and Top 40
• Website is slow and annoying
• Not as affordable as others
• No Global plans
• Short-term plans only

Flexiroam takes a bit of a different approach when it comes to their plans with eSims. They offer coverage in over 200 countries and most of the Global plans allow you to keep your data for very long periods.

So, if you travel often, but don’t need huge data packages, but do move around lots of countries and want your plan to last, then they are the best.

They also offer cheaper and more specific local and global plans as you would expect. The regional plans are great as you have a load of options from Africa to Oceania, Japan/Taiwan/Korea, and even Latin America.

If you travel a lot and don’t need much data, their plans work well across regions but you will probably end up using the data and buying more, which is expensive.

• Long-term plans up to 1 year
• Works in more than 200 countries
• Local, regional, & global plans
• A large set of regional options
• Quite expensive
• Limited data, max 10 GB plan

Sim2Fly is a great choice if you need an eSim for a short period of time for global use, in Asia, or in Thailand.

These are the only plans they offer which are a bit limited but they are affordable and their global plan includes over 120 countries which is pretty solid.

The plans are all short-term also with a max of 16 days, but that is just for Thailand. It is 15 days for the global and just 8 days for their Asia plan.

Their service is quick and reliable, activating the eSim is easy, but their website is a little slow and confusing.

READ MORE: Check out our detailed Sim2Fly review

• Offers global and regional plans
• Global plan includes more than 120 countries
• Affordable data prices
• Local plan for Thailand only
• Regional plan for Asia only
• Plans are very short term, 16 days max
• No unlimited data

Surfroam offers a prepaid eSim or physical sim card that you can use in over 200 countries. Simply buy the sim which comes with the cost amount in credit loaded and travel the world connected.

This system makes life extremely simple as there are no confusing plans, no limits, and all you have to do is top up when your credit runs out.

You can cross borders without any worries about plans and coverage. It is a great design but it comes with one flaw, the prices.

The prices change based on what country you are in and the most affordable option is $10 per GB, which is expensive compared to others.

Read our detailed review of the Surfroam eSim .

• Prepaid eSIM card with credit loaded
• No confusing plans
• Works in over 200 countries
• You can get a physical sim too
• Pay as you go, topping up is easy
• Simple to activate
• Prices vary by country
• Cheapest is $10 per GB - expensive

eSIM.net is a part of 02 and they offer incredibly affordable eSim plans for Europe, the Uk, and the USA too, but that is it.

Their plans are not global and do not work in any other countries.

All their plans are 30 days long and you can buy an unlimited data package for Europe or the USA for just $25 which is an absolute bargain.

eSim.net is another front-runner for the best eSim for Europe. Shame it doesn’t have a truly global reach yet but it probably won’t take long.

Read our detailed review of eSim.net here

• Very affordable
• Great service
• All monthly plans
• Unlimted data
• Limited to Uk, Europe, & USA

SimOptions works more like an eSim comparison website which means it pulls in the best deals across different providers across over 160 countries and more.

You can buy local plans by country or buy regional plans by continent, but global plans are not available.

Setting up your eSim is incredibly easy and you can even opt to get a physical sim card if your phone doesn’t carry an eSim.

The range of plans is extensive and you can easily find unlimited data packages if that is what you are looking for.

Bear in mind, the plans are all short-term with a max of 30 days.

• Prepaid traditional SIM cards and eSIM plans
• Sells eSims across a range of providers
• Lots of plans and great deals to choose from
• Excellent coverage around the world
• No global plans available
• No plans longer than 30 days

Know Roaming

Know Roaming offer a decent starter package for anyone wanting to get an international eSim. Their packages range from 500MB to 5 GB and the prices are competitive.

In terms of countries, they cover the major destinations with 84 countries included in their Global packages.

The prices are as follows:

• 500MB/1 Day – $4
• 1GB/15 Days – $12
• 1.5GB/3 Days – $10
• 5GB/30 Days – $50

The best plan is the 1.5GB for 3 days at $12, but if you don’t use a lot of data each day then the 1GB plan is way better.

READ MORE: Check out our detailed Knowroaming review

• Small global plans at good prices
• Decent list of countries
• Expensive for longer or bigger plans

Benefits of Using eSim for International Travel

There are lots of great things about using an eSim for international travel. The first is that you can simply turn on your phone, open your eSim, buy a plan, and be connected within minutes of landing in a different country.

You don’t have to queue to buy a new sim card or switch out local sim cards, you won’t lose your sim card either, and you can do all of this while keeping your normal phone number.

Topping up your eSim is also very easy. Instead of going to a store and getting a scratch card like in a lot of developing countries, you can just do it in a few seconds on your phone.

This allows those of us who travel often to cross borders into multiple countries and remain connected without having to do anything but push some buttons on our phones.

Another great thing about eSim technology is that if you only buy a data plan, you can still use your normal number for calls and texts, making your phone a dual sim device. This comes in very handy when your bank or Paypal sends you codes via text, as you don’t have to swap anything around.

Downsides of Using eSims

It’s not all sunshine and lollipops either. The biggest two things that annoy me about using an eSim (and I have been using a few for months now) are:

• You cannot share your hotspot with anyone you are traveling with
• You often don’t have telephone or SMS access on your eSim, so calling or messaging is still an issue

How to Choose the Best eSim for International Travel

So, you now know what an eSim is, how it works, and that you have a device that supports an eSim too. Let’s take a look at how to choose the right eSim provider for you.

What Countries Does The eSim provider cover?

Not all eSim providers offer coverage in the same countries. Some, like Vodafone who have a large global network, will cover more countries than other providers that have a smaller global network.

Think about the countries you travel to most and the new countries you would like to go to and choose an eSim provider that covers them all, or at least most of them.

How Much Data Do You Use?

Look at how much data you use when you are home. Your smartphone or your provider should be able to give you a report on this. Then make sure to find an eSim data plan to match.

Not all global data plans have the same amount of data allowance and the last thing you need is to run out of data while you are traveling.

I also find that it is not always a matter of how much data you usually use either. Why? Because when you are on the road your access to data is different.

• You may or may not have data at your accommodation
• You might be working at a cafe or workplace

So, you have to think about what you need the data for, and when you need it.

How Fast Do You Need Your Connection To Be?

eSim providers also have different data roaming speeds which affect how fast you can download and upload data.

These days we don’t have much patience for things to load so choose a data package from a provider with enough speed to keep you happy and working.

We all want to pay affordable prices whenever we can but pricing varies across different providers and different eSim plans. Be sure to do some research into eSim global plans so you can find one that gives you what you need at the right price.

What Is An eSim?

When I first heard of an eSim I assumed it was like an app, an electronic sim card you download to your phone. But, that is not the case. An eSim is an Embedded Subscriber Identity Module which means it is pretty much a built-in sim card inside your phone.

An eSim behaves just like a traditional physical sim card but you can’t remove it, it is as I said, built into your phone. This does make life easy as you don’t have to take out one physical sim card and replace it with another when you get to a new country.

With an eSim card, it will just continue to work, so long as the eSim provider has eSim plans for the particular country you are in.

But, not all countries are supported by all eSim providers, and not all devices have an eSim built inside them, as it is a relatively new technology.

Countries That Support eSim

Not every country in the world supports the use of eSims but the list is growing. Currently, you can use an eSim in around 90 countries and it used to only be 10, so many other countries will soon be added.

To see a full list of the many countries that support eSims, follow this link .

Devices Compatible with eSim

Since an eSim needs to be built into a device, not all devices have an eSim inside them, it is just the newer models of smartphones and tablets that support them. You can find a list of the supported devices below.

Iphone & Ipad

• iPhone: 14, 14 Plus, 14 Pro, 14 Pro Max, 13, 13 Pro, 13 Pro Max, 13 Mini, 12, 12 Mini, 12 Pro, 12 Pro Max, 11, 11 Pro, 11 Pro Max, XS, XS Max, XR, SE (2020), SE (2022).
• iPad Air: (3rd generation), (4th generation)
• iPad Pro 11‑inch: 1st, 2nd, & 3rd generation)
• iPad Pro 12.9‑inch: 3rd, 4th, & 5th generation)
• iPad: 7th, 8th, & 9th generation
• iPad Mini: 5th & 6th generation

Be aware that only iPads that have cellular connectivity work with eSims.

Android Phones

• Samsung Galaxy: S22 Ultra 5G, S22+ 5G, S22 5G, S21 Ultra 5G, S21 5G, S21+ 5G, S20, S20+, Z Flip, Z Flip3 5G, Z Fold3, Z Fold2, Fold, Note 20 Ultra, Note 20+, Note 20

But, US versions of Samsung S20/S21 and Galaxy Z Flip 5G plus USA and Hong Kong versions of the Samsung Note 20 Ultra and Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 2 do not support eSims. Also, most Samsung devices bought in South Korea do not support eSIMs.

• Google Pixel: 3, 3 XL, 3a, 3a XL, 4, 4a, 4 XL, 5, 6, 6 Pro, 6a, 7, 7 Pro

But, Google Pixel 3 phones bought in Australia, Taiwan, and Japan do support eSims. Nor do Pixel 3 models bought with US or Canadian carriers other than Sprint and Google Fi. Also, any Pixel 3a models bought in South East Asia and with Verizon service will not work.

• HAMMER: Explorer PRO, Blade 3, Blade 5G, myPhone NOW eSIM
• Motorola: Razr 2019, Razr 5G
• Huawei: P40, P40 Pro, Mate 40 Pro
• OPPO: Find X3 Pro, Find X5 Pro, Find X5
• Sony Xperia: 10 III Lite, 10 IV, 1 IV

Other Devices That Support eSim

• ACER: Swift 3, Swift 7
• ASUS: Mini Transformer T103HAF, NovaGo TP370QL, Vivobook Flip 14 TP401NA
• Dell Latitude: 9510, 7410, 7310, 9410, 7210 2-in-1
• HP: Elitebook G5, Probook G5, Zbook G5, Spectre Folio 13
• Lenovo: Yoga C630, Miix 630, Yoga 520, Yoga 720 convertible laptops
• Surface: Go 3, Pro X, Duo 2, Duo
• Others: Nuu Mobile X5, Gemini PDA 4G+Wi-Fi, Xiaomi 12T Pro, Windows 10*/ Windows 11

FAQs About Using eSim for International Travel

Is esim better than a physical sim for international travel.

Whther an eSim is better than a physical SIM on what you need. If you are traveling to a new country for a month, a physical SIM is more affordable. Whereas if you are constantly changing countries, then the convenience of an e-Sim is ideal.

Why is eSim not so popular?

There are a few reasons why eSims are not very popular. The first is cost, eSim plans are a lot more expensive than a local sim card. Also, you have to have an expensive phone to even be able to use an eSim. Lastly, you can't remove an eSim which means you can't transfer it as easily to another phone

Another problem with eSims is that you can’t remove them and therefore can never disconnect as such. This means you can be tracked and hacked more easily.

Finally, eSims simply do not work everywhere yet and the global plans are not that good. I’m sure this will change with time but right now the carriers aren’t giving enough support to eSim for it to be worth it in all situations.

Is it possible to activate eSim overseas?

Yes, it is possible to activate an eSim overseas. All you need to do is buy an eSim data plan in the country you have arrived in and activate it on your phone. This is usually done with a simple QR code provided by the eSim company.

• Overview Guide
• 1 Week Itinerary
• Train Journeys
• Epic Drives
• Stunning Lakes
• Historic Castles
• Lauterbrunnen
• Grindelwald
• Chocolate Tours
• Swiss National Park
• Majestic Mountains
• Spectacular Waterfalls
• Famous Things
• Tasty Fondue
• 10 Day Itinerary
• Cherry Blossoms
• Tokyo Shrines
• Dos and Don’ts
• Osaka Guide
• Osaka Itinerary
• Osaka or Kyoto
• Kyoto Day Trips
• Matsumoto Castle
• Tokyo Luxury Hotels
• Island Hopping
• Best Campsites
• Driving Tips
• Beaune, France
• Barcelona Itinerary
• Spain Itinerary
• Greece Itinerary
• Italy Road Trips
• Berlin Day Trips
• Norway Northern Lights
• Netherlands National Parks
• Mostar, Bosnia
• Best Airlines
• Midwest Ski Resorts
• Florida RV Parks
• Washington RV Parks
• Oregon RV Parks
• Utah Camping
• Texas Camping
• Chicago National Parks
• East Coast National Parks
• Colorado National Parks
• Joshua Tree
• Yellowstone
• Alberta Hikes
• Flashlights
• Water Filters
• Sleeping Pads
• Solar Lanterns
• Tent Brands
• 4-Person Tents
• 4 Seasons Tents
• Backpacking Tents
• Beach Tents
• Cabin Tents
• Multi-room Tents
• Pop-up Tents
• Truck Bed Tents
• Underwear (Men)
• Backpacks Under $100
• Microspikes
• Boonie Hats
• In The World
• New Zealand
• Hardisde Luggage
• Lightweight Luggage
• Luggage Sets
• Spinner Luggage
• Durable Suitcases
• Duffel Bags
• Kids Luggage
• Teen Luggage
• Space Saving Luggage
• Business Carry-Ons
• Garment Carry-Ons
• Suitcases Under $50
• Travel Briefcase
• Zipperless Suitcases
• Rolling Briefcase
• Luggage Straps
• Luxury Brands
• American Tourister
• AmazonBasics
• Delsey Chatelet
• Anti-Theft Backpacks
• Backpacks Under $50
• Baby Carrier Backpacks
• Cooler Backpacks
• Backpacking Backpacks
• Climbing Backpacks
• Backpacks for Back Pain
• Beach Backpacks
• Hiking Backpacks
• Business Travel Backpacks
• Laptop Backpacks
• Backpacks for Tablets
• Commuter Backpacks
• Travel Backpacks (Men)
• Travel Backpacks (Women)
• Waterproof Backpacks
• Wheeled Backpacks
• Down Jackets
• Down Parkas
• Fleece Jackets
• Hardshell Jackets
• Rain Jackets
• Softshell Jackets
• Eco Friendly Jackets
• Gore Tex Alternatives
• Heated Jackets
• Lightweight Jackets
• 3-in-1 Waterproof Jackets
• Parajumper Jackets
• Rain Poncho
• Ski Jackets
• Travel Hoodies
• Travel Jackets
• Winter Coats
• Helly Hansen
• Mammut Jackets
• Patagonia Nanopuff
• Survival Jackets
• Flower Captions
• Waterfall Captions
• Tree Captions
• Sunset Captions
• Sunflower Captions
• Rainbow Captions
• Paddle Boarding Captions
• Hot Air Balloon Captions
• Kayaking Captions
• Airplane Captions For Instagram
• Forest Captions

SAVE MONEY ON YOUR NEXT ESIM

Get 5% off unlimted data  , code: "expertworldtravel", new customer 15% off with code: " dec15 ".

What’s the best eSim for Europe in 2024?

By Author Paulina

Posted on Published: December 7, 2022  - Last updated: March 18, 2024

If you’re planning on jetting off to Europe soon, chances are that your phone plan won’t cover the roaming fees that come with using your existing service provider.

That’s why having an eSim for Europe is essential. eSIM Europe and eSIM USA have been game changers since they allow us to stay connected as we travel!

An eSim enables you to access a data network whilst abroad with no physical SIM card, meaning all your important business emails and social media posts can remain uninterrupted even as you explore!

You, dear reader, support this blog. When you purchase through a link, I may earn a small commission. As an Amazon Affiliate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

In this blog post, I’ll be telling you about some of the best eSims for Europe so that you can stay connected throughout your trip.

I’ll also introduce you to Holafly eSim , one of the best eSim for Europe providers.

You can also read my Holafly eSim Review here.

Hey! Don’t forget to grab my free eSim Set-up Checklist below!

Table of Contents

Overview: Top eSim for Europe providers

What is an esim, and why do you need an esim for europe travel.

Let me explain if you’re considering buying an eSim for Europe but are not entirely clued to their benefits.

An eSim will let you keep your original number while using a second connection as you travel in Europe.

You can save money with cheaper roaming data plans and call connections throughout Europe. 

For those who appreciate value for money, eSims are great.

You will undoubtedly slash your phone bill costs as you’re abroad, and you won’t have to use a new number, which can be confusing, mainly if you deal with clients as a business person. 

Which providers offer the best deals for European eSim cards?

eSims are the cheapest and fastest way to stay connected to friends, colleagues, and family as you take a holiday, travel, or visit a European country.

Holafly eSim is the best eSim provider for Europe travel, as you can choose from a range of plans available in European countries.

Once you receive your eSim, it’s very easy to activate, and you’ll be ready to use it immediately.

There’s minimum fuss involved and a win-win scenario for you, the user, who will save money and be able to stay in touch as you travel. 

Unlike other types of sims, everything for an eSim is completed online.

This is so convenient, particularly if you have left it until the last minute to arrange your phone for traveling to Europe.

As mentioned, as soon as you buy your eSim for Europe travel you can activate it immediately. 

WISH SETTING UP AN eSIM WAS EASY?

It can be with your free checklist!

• Exact steps to follow
• Easy instructions
• Have your eSim ready to use in seconds

Check your inbox to download your free eSim checklist! Don’t forget to check your Spam too 🙂

For many people, the fact that you don’t have to physically go and buy an eSim or fill out any papers in a store makes these types of Sims very appealing.

eSims are great if you’re looking for a low-cost way to ensure you can use your phone usually while abroad in Europe.

Whether you’re traveling for one day in Bruges on a business trip or you visit Spain and you want to Google ‘ what is Spain famous for ?’, an eSim will have you covered with data access. 

eSims are great for when you travel Europe as they: 

• Eliminate roaming charges that you would experience with your normal sim plan 
• Provide you with reliable and high-speed internet access in Europe
• Keep you connected to others with voice minutes for use in Europe
• Don’t require any physical filling out of forms 

It is important to remember that eSims will only work on an unlocked mobile phone.

If you have a locked phone to a specific network provider, you cannot use an eSim. 

Step-by-Step Activation Guide for Europe eSIM

Now that I have covered the basics of an eSim and how it can benefit you on a general level, it’s time to examine how the eSims from Holafly work.

There is no physical installation required to get an eSim to function.

As a virtual experience, all you need to do is select one of the amazing deals available based on the destination(s) you are traveling to in Europe. 

Once you have bought your eSim from Holafly eSim , you’ll receive a QR code to help you connect your new eSim. 

eSims are compatible with many types of phones.

Check this page to find a list of eSIM-enabled devices. You can also ask your provider whether your device supports eSims. 

The bundle will start as soon as you choose to activate your eSim.

You can plan and activate your eSim as you travel or the day before you depart; it’s up to you. 

ESims work exactly the same way as a traditional SIM card.

Depending on the package you select, your phone will be allocated a set number of minutes and texts and will have a data allowance based on how much you pay.

The only difference is that the SIM card is not physical. You won’t need to put the sim card into your phone as it is a virtual product. 

All you need to get started with your eSim package is the QR code provided.

Reaching the benefits of using an eSim for European traveling is straightforward. 

Get your eSIM with Unlimited Data in Europe

Tips for using your European eSim card while traveling

• Make sure your device is compatible with eSim technology before purchasing a card.
• Research different providers and compare plans to fit your needs and budget best.
• Activating an eSIM card may require a Wi-Fi connection, so do this before you leave home or find a Wi-Fi spot at your destination.
• Remember that eSim cards may not be supported by all service providers in the countries you visit, so checking the coverage map before you travel is always a good idea.
• If you use your phone for data-intensive activities such as streaming or downloading, consider purchasing a plan with unlimited data.
• Always have a backup plan if your eSim doesn’t work as expected. Keep a traditional SIM card or a local prepaid SIM card as a backup.
• Turn off data roaming on your device to avoid unexpected charges, and turn it on only when you need it.
• If you plan to travel to multiple countries, consider purchasing a European eSim card with a bundle plan covering various countries.
• Keep your eSim card provider’s customer service number handy if you need assistance.

What does an eSim for Europe cost? 

An eSim for European travel typically costs between $10 and $40, depending on what is included in the package. Some people prioritize data over calls, while others may prioritize texting allowances.

Holafly makes it easy to find the right type of eSim for your budget and needs.

Determining how much to spend on an eSim can be difficult, especially if you’re unsure of your data usage.

WiFi availability and security should be considered, especially in countries where WiFi is less accessible.

Fewer data allowances may be sufficient for short trips, but longer trips may require more data.

An eSim is the easiest way to stay connected in Europe while you travel! 

With an eSim from Holafly , you can rest assured knowing that you will have data for roaming (without extra costs), minutes, and access to texting. eSims are highly convenient and great value for money. 

As mentioned, you can benefit from eSim connection as you travel for as little as $10. 

You can also select your preferred language and currency to browse Holafly , making the buying experience far easier.

eSim packages are the easiest way to stay connected in Europe, making them the perfect choice for travelers visiting European countries.

Tips for Data Management

Don’t let unexpected charges ruin your European adventure. Take control of your data usage with these essential tips:

• Stay informed: Keep track of your data usage by regularly checking your device’s settings or using data tracking apps.
• Optimize your settings: Save data by disabling automatic updates and background app refresh when not in use.
• Connect to Wi-Fi: Use Wi-Fi hotspots whenever possible to conserve your eSIM data.

With these simple steps, you can make the most of your data plan and enjoy an easy experience while staying connected in Europe.

What about device compatibility?

To ensure smooth and seamless connectivity during your European travels with eSIM technology, it is important to check compatibility with your iPhone or Android phone first.

Good news: most smartphones are!

Discover if your device is compatible with eSIMs by visiting your manufacturer’s website or checking your settings.

Look for the “eSIM” or “Cellular” section and easily add and manage eSIM profiles.

Plus, eSIM providers often provide compatibility details on their websites or apps.

Check out this article on the best apps for international travel .

How to get a European eSim card?

Holafly offers a wide variety of eSims for European travel, with affordable packages to keep you connected wherever you go.

The website is easy to navigate, and they have a presence in over 100 countries worldwide. You can search for an eSim based on the country you’re traveling to.

An eSim plan allows you to stay connected with friends and family without worrying about disruptions to your data plan.

The eSim connections offered by Holafly are not restricted to any specific destination and provide access to minutes for calls, texts, and data, just like at home.

Discounted packages are also available with a set number of international voice calls.

• Enjoy unlimited data plans for your trip to Europe
• Includes calls to Europe
• Keep in contact with friends and family over WhatsApp
• No registration is required. Easy to set up
• 24/7 customer service in English

More resources on Europe eSIM

If you’re planning to visit just one country in Europe, I recommend getting an eSIM that is specific to that country.

For example if you’re planning to head to France only, in my experience, it’s a better experience to have a dedicated eSIM for France.

Have a look at the other articles I wrote about eSIMs:

• Best eSIM for Europe with unlimited data
• What’s the best eSIM for Spain?
• What is the best eSIM for France?
• best eSIM for UK
• Best eSIM for Italy

Final thoughts on using an eSim card while traveling in Europe

In summary, using an eSim card while traveling in Europe can be a convenient and cost-effective way to stay connected.

It eliminates the need to purchase a new SIM card for each country you visit, and allows you to switch between plans and providers easily.

However, it’s important to research and ensure your device is compatible with eSim technology and check the coverage and plan options different providers offer.

When choosing a plan, it’s also wise to consider your data usage needs, WiFi availability, and security.

Additionally, it’s recommended to have a backup plan in case your eSim doesn’t work as expected.

Overall, with a little bit of planning and research, an eSim card can greatly enhance your travel experience and keep you connected with ease.

FAQs about using eSim cards in Europe

What is an esim card.

An eSIM (embedded SIM) card is a type of SIM card that is embedded directly into a device, rather than being a physical card that can be removed and replaced. It allows users to activate a mobile plan directly on the device without the need for a physical SIM card.

What is the advantage of using an eSIM card in Europe?

The most important benefits of using an eSIM card in Europe are convenience, flexibility, cost-effectiveness, space-saving, multi-device support, and better security.

How do I get an eSIM card?

1. Purchase from a mobile carrier. 2. From the device manufacturer 3. Online retailers like HolidayeSim.com offer eSim cards.

Want to learn more about eSim for Europe? Check out our webstory.

Hola! I’m Paulina, a seasoned travelette who crossed the Atlantic Ocean by Boat HitchHiking. On my blog, find expert insights for an extraordinary holiday through outdoor and sustainable travel like hiking, cycling, and sailing. Let’s embark on unforgettable journeys together! 🌍🚀

Affordable mobile data across Europe and beyond

Stay connected in 45+ countries in Europe with a single eSIM from Vodafone Travel.

Watch 60 second video

What is eSIM?

eSIM is a digital SIM that you can download. No plastic, no shop visits.It’s easier and greener. Install and get online in a matter of minutes!

Stay connected

Use the same eSIM across 45+ European countries and stay connected

Fast and easy

Get your Europe eSIM immediately via email, and connect within seconds

Wi-Fi Hotspot

Share your internet connection with friends, family, and any other devices

Keep your original SIM

Your existing SIM card will continue to operate, while the eSIM provides you data connectivity.

How it works

No more swapping SIM cards when you travel! Buy your eSIM before you go for faster, easier connectivity - wherever you roam.

Before purchasing, make sure that your device is eSIM compatible using our device compatibility tool.

Install your eSIM as soon as possible. You’ll need a stable internet connection. You can use another device to scan your QR code or install your eSIM manually.

Activate when you are ready to use the eSIM. You can do it in flight or upon arrival at your destination (you don’t need an internet connection to activate).

Join 300M+ global customers who choose Vodafone

A reliable, award-winning network. Choose eSIM from Europe’s most trusted Network provider and we’ll keep you connected to the things and people that matter.

Included Locations

Enjoy 4G/LTE and 5G coverage (where available) in the following countries and regions with our Europe eSIM Plan

United Kingdom

Frequently Asked Questions

Get in touch.

Can’t find the answers you’re looking for in our FAQs? Drop us an email and we’ll get back to you promptly.

• Terms & Conditions
• Privacy Policy
• Cookie Policy
• Charges Guide
• Acceptable Usage Policy
• eSIM Installation Guide

Vodafone Roaming Services S.à r.l. is registered in the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg. R.C.S Luxembourg No. B125883. Registered Office: 15 rue Edward Steichen, L-2540 Luxembourg, Grand Duchy of Luxembourg. VAT LU22869756

Complete Guide: Best eSIM For International Travel

by Melissa Giroux | Last updated Jan 24, 2024 | SIM Cards , Travel Tips

eSIMs are becoming more and more popular as people become more and more mobile.

But with so many eSIM providers and apps to choose from, it can be hard to know which one is the best for your needs.

This comparison guide will help you find the best eSIM for international travel .

We’ll look at what to consider when choosing the best eSIM provider, and then we’ll recommend our top picks for international travel.

So, whether you’re looking for the best global eSIM for travel or need a basic plan, we have you covered.

We’ll also feature some of the best eSIM deals available right now with our exclusive promo codes.

Quick Overview Best Travel eSIMs

Looking for a quick answer? Here are the three top eSIM providers for international travel.

• Airalo : Perfect for travelers looking for short-term and long-term options worldwide. (My pick)
• Holafly : Great options with several unlimited plans, especially in the United States.
• Nomad : Offers a variety of country and global plans, as well as unlimited data plans in some destinations.

Before we dive deeper, if you’re new to eSIM, let’s see what an eSIM is.

❓ What Is An eSIM?

eSIM is a type of SIM card that is embedded in your device. You don’t need a physical SIM card, which makes it more convenient for people who travel frequently.

eSIMs are also becoming more common in smartphones, so if you’re looking to buy a new phone, eSIM might be an option for you.

There’s a catch! eSIMs are not yet universally supported. So before you switch to an eSIM, make sure your device is compatible.

Read our guide to learn the main differences between SIM cards and eSIM .

❓Which Devices Are Compatible With eSIM?

eSIM is currently supported on a few devices, including:

• Apple iPhone XS, XS Max, XR, 11, 12, 13, 14, and newer models.
• Google Pixel 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, and newer models.
• Samsung Galaxy S20, S21, S22, and newer models.
• Huawei P40, and newer models.

If you’re considering upgrading your phone soon, read about the best eSIM phones .

To verify if your device is compatible with eSIM , go to Settings and locate your International Mobile Equipment Identity (IMEI). This will tell you if your device supports eSIM.

Here’s how to do it add an eSIM on a Google Pixel device:

• Go to Settings.
• Go to Network and Internet
• Click on Add more
• Choose Download a SIM instead.
• Click on next.
• Scan the QR code.
• Name the eSIM.
• Pick the eSIM to provide data.
• Make sure the roaming is on.

🗒️ How To Choose The Best eSIM Provider For International Travel

Now that we know what an eSIM is, let’s look at how to choose the best travel eSIM provider for you.

There are a few factors to consider when choosing an eSIM provider, including:

• Coverage: Make sure the eSIM provider has good coverage in the countries you travel to. Some eSIM apps have local, regional, and international plans.
• Data: How much data do you need? You’ll need a plan with more data if you’re a heavy user.
• Speed: Not all eSIM providers offer the same speeds. If you need fast speed, make sure to choose a provider that offers them.
• Price: eSIM plans can vary in price, so consider your budget when choosing a provider. Some providers offer great eSIM deals too.

❓ Where To Buy An International eSIM?

International eSIMs for travel can be bought from a variety of places, including:

• eSIM providers: Many eSIM providers sell eSIMs directly from their websites. This is the most convenient option, as you can activate your eSIM immediately. Some of these eSIM apps also allow you to purchase a plan without data or WiFi.
• Carriers: If you’re already using a carrier, you may be able to buy an eSIM from them. It’s worth checking if your current carrier has its own eSIM plans.

So, how do you pick an eSIM provider?

Let us help! We’ll review the best eSIM for international travel below.

Airalo eSIM

Airalo is the most popular eSIM store and offers eSIMs in 200+ countries at affordable prices.

I’ve been using Airalo for a while now, and you can read our complete Airalo review to learn more about this eSIM provider.

Here’s how Airalo works:

• Create an account on Airalo .
• Download the app or use the desktop version.
• Choose your destination and preferred plan.
• Install your eSIM.
• Activate your eSIM.

Go to Airalo

Pros And Cons Of Using Airalo To Buy eSIM

Let’s take a look at the main pros and cons of Airalo.

• Coverage in 200+ countries.
• Short-term and long-term plans are available.
• Affordable prices.
• Offers local, regional, and global plans.
• The customer support is great and fast.
• No unlimited data plans available (a few exceptions)
• I had a few issues in the past, but customer support always fixed the issues quickly.

Airalo Offer

Get 10% off on your first purchase on Airalo by using my referral code: ABB10.

Get A Discount Now

Holafly eSIM

Holafly is an eSIM provider with eSIM plans for more than 170 destinations.

I tried Holafly in the past, so you can read our complete Holafly review to learn more.

Here’s how Holafly works:

• Pick a plan.
• You’ll receive an email with your eSIM.
• Scan the QR code to activate your eSIM.

Go to Holafly

Pros And Cons Of Using Holafly To Buy eSIM

Let’s take a look at the main pros and cons of Holafly.

• eSIMs are delivered via email immediately.
• Plans available for more than 130 countries.
• Supports both short-term and long-term plans.
• Offers lots of options with unlimited data.
• The customer support is fast (they answered me in 19 minutes).
• You get unlimited data plans in several countries and regions, which is excellent if you are a heavy user. However, some users reported that the speed could vary. This could mean you’ll get high speed first, and eventually, you’ll get a slower speed if you use too much data.
• You can’t always set up a hotspot with some plans, but some of them offer it. It’s worth checking out if you’re planning on using a hotspot.

Holafly Offer

Get 5% off your first purchase on Holafly with my referral code ABROKENBACKPACK.

Nomad offers data plans in 140+ countries. Their plans are in the Americas, Europe, and Asia.

They also have regional plans (global, Nordic, APAC, SEA-Oceania, and Europe). Keep reading to learn more.

I’ve tried Nomad, and it worked well.

Although, it’s not my favorite because they only have short-term plans (up to 60 days, but mostly 30 days).

Nomad offers fixed data plans and unlimited data plans, giving you many options to pick from.

Here’s how Nomad works:

• Pick a data plan.
• Install the eSIM by scanning the QR code.
• Activate your plan.

Go to Nomad

Pros And Cons Of Using Nomad To Buy eSIM

Let’s take a look at the main pros and cons of Nomad.

• Plans available in 100+ countries.
• Regional and global plans available.
• The website is very modern.
• Unlimited data plans in some destinations.
• All the reviews on the website are 5-star, which I find hard to believe. Nothing is perfect in this world.
• Short-term plans only (up to 30 days).

Nomad Offer

Get $3 off on your first purchase on Nomad by using my referral code: MELI23HJ.

SimCorner eSIM

SimCorner offers data plans in 80+ countries. They offer both prepaid SIM cards and eSIM plans. You can pick between a local and a regional plan depending on your travel plans.

I’ve tried SimCorner, and it worked great.

However, I needed to wait a few hours to receive my eSIM. If you wish to purchase an eSIM plan on SimCorner, I recommend buying it a few days before your trip. This way, you’ll have it on time for your trip.

Learn more by reading our SimCorner review .

Here’s how SimCorner works:

• Pick a data plan that suits your needs.
• Complete the purchase.
• Install the eSIM by scanning the QR code once you receive the eSIM via email.

Go to SimCorner

Pros And Cons Of Using SimCorner To Buy eSIM

Let’s take a look at the main pros and cons of SimCorner.

• SIM cards and eSIM plans available in 80+ countries.
• Local and regional plans available.
• High data limits for heavy users.
• You may need to wait a few hours to receive your eSIM, so plan ahead of your trip.
• The buying process requires more steps than most providers. Still, you’ll be able to make a purchase in just a few minutes.

SimCorner Offer

Get a 5% discount with our promo code: ABBPTravel.

Maya Mobile eSIM

Maya Mobile is an eSIM store offering plans in 194 countries. They offer a wide range of affordable plans in multiple destinations. Each plan is up to 30 days, but you can opt for an auto-renew if you wish.

Maya Mobile offers data plans and unlimited data plans in some destinations.

I’ve tried Maya Mobile, and it worked fine.

Learn more by reading our Maya Mobile review .

Here’s how Maya Mobile works:

• Select an auto top-up or monthly renewal option if you need.
• Go to Data Plans or check your email to install the eSIM by scanning the QR code.
• Enable roaming on your device.

Go to Maya Mobile

Pros And Cons Of Using Maya Mobile To Buy eSIM

Let’s take a look at the main pros and cons of Maya Mobile.

• eSIM plans available in 194 countries.
• Wide range of plans you can renew every month
• Unlimited data plans in some destinations
• There are no global plans for the time being.

Maya Mobile Offer

Maya Mobile offers our readers a 10% discount. You won’t need to manually insert a coupon code to redeem your discount. Simply use our links to activate your 10% off .

SimOptions eSIM

SimOptions offers prepaid traditional SIM cards, and eSIM plans. They have plans everywhere around the world, including regional plans.

How SimOptions works:

• Purchase a plan.
• Scan the QR code to install your eSIM.

Go to SimsOptions

Pros And Cons Of Using SimOptions To Buy eSIM

Let’s take a look at the main pros and cons of SimOptions.

• Prepaid traditional SIM cards and eSIM plans available.
• Offers eSIM plans from different carriers, so you have more options to choose from.
• The website is a bit more old-school but still very easy to use.

SimsOptions Offer

There are no offers at the moment.

BNESIM eSIM

BNESIM is an eSIM provider that was founded in 2017. They offer plans in 160+ countries. You’ll also find other options like international phone numbers, unlimited data packages, and monthly subscriptions.

To learn more, you can read our complete BNESIM review .

Here’s how BNESIM works:

• Pay for your plan by entering your credit card information and email.
• Install your eSIM by scanning the QR code.
• If you’re using an Android, you’ll need to set up the APN. You’ll get all the information to set it up under the QR code.

Go to BNESIM

Pros And Cons Of Using BNESIM To Buy ESIM

Let’s take a look at the main pros and cons of using BNESIM.

• Plans without expirations are available.
• Discounts on monthly data plans.
• Offers local and regional plans.
• The website is a bit simple, and not the most user-friendly one. For example, it can get overwhelming when looking at the options because of the way plans are presented. Update: they are working on a new version, so we’re looking forward to seeing it!

BNESIM Offer

Get a EUR 4 discount on your first purchase over EUR 10 with my BNESIM promo code: MELISSA4OFF.

Yoho Mobile eSIM

Yoho Mobile is an eSIM provider offering plans in 190+ regions and countries. You’ll also find plans in individual countries, and you’ll find regional plans for Europe and Asia.

To learn more, you can read our complete Yoho Mobile review .

Here’s how Yoho Mobile works:

• Pay for your plan by entering your credit card information, name, address, and email.
• Make sure to enable roaming to access the Internet.

Go to Yoho Mobile

Pros And Cons Of Using Yoho Mobile To Buy ESIM

Let’s take a look at the main pros and cons of using Yoho Mobile to purchase an eSIM.

• Coverage in 190+ countries.
• Many countries and regional plans offer multiple networks, which means you’ll get access to better Internet during your travels.
• The website is relatively new, so we are excited to see how this eSIM provider will evolve in time.

Yoho Mobile Offer

Get a 5% discount on your first purchase with my Yoho Mobile promo code: abrokenbackpack5. To add a coupon code, click on View Cart and paste the coupon code there.

Manet Travel eSIM

Manet Travel is a new eSIM provider offering various local, regional, and global plans in over 200 destinations. It’s a great eSIM provider, especially if you plan to travel to multiple destinations.

Read our Manet Travel eSIM review to learn more about this store.

• Pick a plan and click on the Activate button.
• Go to your emails and scan the QR code to install your eSIM.
• Enable roaming to access the Internet.

Go to Manet Travel

Pros And Cons Of Using Manet Travel To Buy eSIM

Let’s take a look at the main pros and cons of Manet Travel.

• Plans available for more than 140 countries.
• The customer support is extremely fast (they answered me in 5 minutes).
• You can’t top up your plans for the time being, but their team said they are working on offering this feature in the future.

Manet Travel Offer

There are currently no offers available. You’ll have to choose between a credit card or a coupon code/voucher at the moment of the purchase.

AloSIM eSIM

aloSIM is a new eSIM provider offering plans in 130+ regions and countries. You’ll find many affordable local and regional eSIM plans.

To learn more, you can read our complete aloSIM review .

Here’s how aloSIM works:

• Pick a plan on aloSIM.
• Click on the buy button.
• Log in or create an account.
• Choose a payment method. They accept credit cards as well as vouchers.
• Click on eSIM plan.
• Click on the button to install the eSIM.
• Scan the QR code. You’ll also get information below the QR code if you need help.
• Set up an APN as mentioned in the installation guidelines.

Go to aloSIM

Pros And Cons Of Using aloSIM To Buy ESIM

Let’s take a look at the main pros and cons of using aloSIM to purchase an eSIM.

• Coverage in 130+ countries.
• The website is easy to use.
• The support team is extremely fast.
• Offers affordable local and regional plans.
• Some regional plans don’t offer coverage in as many countries as other eSIM providers.

AloSIM Offer

Get a 5% discount on your first purchase with my AloSIM promo code: ABB5. To add a coupon code, you’ll need to enter it as a voucher when choosing a payment method.

GigSky eSIM

GigSky is an eSIM provider offering data plans in over 200 countries around the world. To buy an eSIM, you’ll need to download the app. Then, the app makes the whole process of buying an eSIM easier.

If you wish to learn more, read our complete GigSky review .

Here’s how GigSky works:

• Select your destination and preferred plan on the app. You can swipe to see local, regional, or global plans available in this country.
• Confirm that your device is unlocked and supports eSIM technology. Then, click on the button Buy Plan.
• Finalize your purchase and activate your eSIM. The app does the whole thing for you, which is great if you’re unfamiliar with eSIMs.
• Enable roaming.
• Note that you may need to manually select the network if your Internet doesn’t work. I had to do this to connect to the Internet.

Go to GigSky

Pros And Cons Of Using GigSky To Buy ESIM

Let’s examine the main pros and cons of using GigSky to purchase an eSIM.

• The app helps you install the eSIM, which means buying an eSIM is easier and faster.
• If you prefer to make a purchase on a desktop instead of on your mobile, it won’t be possible for the time being.

GigSky eSIM Offer

There are no offers at the moment. If this changes in the future, we’ll let you know!

Instabridge eSIM

Instabridge is an eSIM store offering plans in over 190 countries. They offer a wide range of affordable plans in multiple destinations. You can opt for a one-off plan or a yearly subscription.

The best thing about Instabridge is its global eSIM plan that works in 112 countries.

I’ve tried Instabridge, and it worked fine. Their app is beautifully designed, and you’ll be able to find more options on there (compared to the desktop version).

Learn more by reading our Instabridge review .

Here’s how Instabridge works:

• Add promotion code ABB10 to get 10% discount on Global packages (it works on 1, 3, and 10 GB).
• Go to your emails to download the app and activate the plan.
• Let the app install and activate the eSIM for you.

Go to Instabridge

Pros And Cons Of Using Instabridge To Buy eSIM

Let’s take a look at the main pros and cons of using Instabridge.

• eSIM plans available in over 190 countries
• Local and global plans available
• Wide range of plans (one-off and yearly subscriptions)
• Global eSIM works in 112 countries
• You need to use the app in order to find all the country plans available

Instabridge Offer

Instabridge offers our readers a 10% discount on global plans (1 GB, 3 GB, and 10 GB). Simply use our coupon code ABB10 to enjoy 10% off.

• Holiday eSIM

Holiday eSIM is an eSIM store offering plans in 200 countries. Holiday eSIM offers flexible prepaid plans, including international data, voice, and minutes, all backed by major mobile networks worldwide.

Holiday eSIM ensures customers receive reliable high-speed Internet with plans that are easy to activate.

Here’s how Holiday eSIM works:

• Pick a plan on Holiday eSIM .
• Click on the Add to Cart button.
• View cart. Add your coupon code if you have one.
• Proceed to checkout
• Log in, create an account, or buy as a guest.

Go to Holiday eSIM

Pros And Cons Of Using Holiday eSIM To Buy ESIM

Let’s take a look at the main pros and cons of using Holiday eSIM to purchase an eSIM.

• Coverage in 200 countries.
• Depending on the destination, prepaid plans can include international data, voice, and SMS.
• Offers plans backed by the best mobile networks.
• The website could be improved to simplify the experience.

Holiday eSIM Offer

There are no offers at the moment. To add a coupon code, you’ll need to click on View Cart. Once the coupon code is added, you can proceed to checkout.

Onesim eSIM

Onesim is a new eSIM provider offering plans in 125+ regions and countries. All their eSIM plans are basically regional or global, which means you’ll get coverage in multiple countries.

To learn more, you can read our complete Onesim review .

Here’s how Onesim works:

• Pay for your plan with a credit card and enter your name, country, phone type, and email address.

Go to Onesim

Pros And Cons Of Using Onesim To Buy ESIM

Let’s take a look at the main pros and cons of using Onesim to purchase an eSIM.

• Coverage in 125+ countries.
• The APN is automatically added to the eSIM, which means it’s easier to install.
• The website is relatively new, so we are looking forward to see how it evolves in the future.

Onesim Offer

Get a 10% discount on your first purchase with my Onesim coupon code: BACKPACK10. To add a coupon code, you’ll see an option that says, “Have a coupon? Click here to enter your code”.

Best Global eSIM Providers

Now that you know some eSIM providers, let’s talk about the best international eSIM plans available.

Having an international eSIM is excellent when you travel a lot!

In my opinion, Airalo is the best travel eSIM for international trips because they offer more plans, but Nomad does provide coverage in more countries.

Let’s take a look at the best eSIM plans for international travel.

Airalo Discover Global eSIM

I love Airalo Discover Global because it covers 130 countries, making my life easier.

Here’s an overview of the plans available:

• 1 GB, valid for 7 days for $9
• 2 GB, valid for 15 days for $17
• 3 GB, valid for 15 days for $24
• 5 GB, valid for 30 days for $35
• 10 GB, valid for 180 days for $59
• 20 GB, valid for 365 days for $69

You’ll also find options with calls and SMS.

Nomad Global eSIM

Nomad also offers a global plan that works in 112 countries.

• 1 GB, valid for 7 days for $20
• 3 GB, valid for 30 days for $48
• 5 GB, valid for 30 days for $54

As you can see, Airalo provides better options if you want a global plan, but Nomad offers coverage in more countries.

Instabridge Global eSIM

Instabridge offers a global plan that works in 112 countries.

• 1 GB, valid for 7 days for $8
• 3 GB, valid for 15 days for $20
• 10 GB, valid for 30 days for $50

Holiday eSIM World

Holiday eSIM offers Orange Holiday World , an eSIM (or SIM) that works in multiple countries around the world.

Here’s an overview of the plan available:

• 10 GB, valid for 14 days for $44.10

Manet Travel Global eSIMs

Manet Travel offers various global eSIMs.

• Global plan valid in 84 countries – from EUR 10
• Global plan valid in 137 countries – from EUR 10
• Global plan valid in 140 countries – from EUR 16.60

Best eSIM Providers For Europe

If you’re traveling to Europe, here are the best eSIMs for Europe .

Note that it might already be included if you choose a global eSIM plan instead.

Airalo Eurolink eSIM

Eurolink offers coverage in 39 countries. I used it this year during my travels in Europe.

• 1 GB, valid for 7 days for 5$
• 3 GB, valid for 30 days for 13$
• 5 GB, valid for 30 days for 20$
• 10 GB, valid for 30 days for 37$
• 50 GB, valid for 90 days for 100$
• 100 GB, valid for 180 days for $185

Holafly Europe eSIM

Holafly has great European plans that work in 32 countries. It’s interesting because they come with unlimited data.

They recently released a new feature – make calls for up to 60 minutes and receive calls for up to 60 minutes

• Unlimited data, valid for 5 days for EUR 19
• Unlimited data, valid for 7 days for EUR 27
• Unlimited data, valid for 10 days for EUR 34
• Unlimited data, valid for 15 days for EUR 47
• Unlimited data, valid for 20 days for EUR 57
• Unlimited data, valid for 30 days for EUR 69
• Unlimited data, valid for 60 days for EUR 87
• Unlimited data, valid for 90 days for EUR 99

Nomad Europe eSIM

Nomad also offers plans in Europe .

• 1 GB, valid for 7 days for 9$
• 3 GB, valid for 30 days for $17
• 5 GB, valid for 30 days for $18
• 10 GB, valid for 30 days for $26

SimCorner Europe eSIM

SimCorner offers both prepaid SIM cards and eSIM plans in Europe.

Here’s an overview of the eSIM plan available :

• 30 GB, valid for 30 days for $49 (including calls and SMS)

Maya Mobile Europe eSIM

Maya Mobile offers an eSIM plan for Europe that works in 40 countries.

Here’s an overview of the plans available :

• 3GB, valid for 30 days for $9
• 5GB, valid for 30 days for $14
• 10GB, valid for 30 days for $23
• 20GB, valid for 30 days for $34
• Unlimited data, valid for 30 days for $59

BNESIM Europe eSIM

BNESIM offers a European plan that includes coverage in 30 European countries.

Here’s an overview of the options available in Europe :

• 1 GB, no expiration for $3.77
• 3 GB, no expiration for $10.98
• 5 GB, no expiration for $17.73
• 10 GB, no expiration for $33.95

Yoho Mobile Europe eSIM

Yoho Mobile offers a European plan that includes coverage in 29 countries.

• 1 GB, valid for 7 days for $4.50
• 3 GB, valid for 10 days for $10.99
• 5 GB, valid for 15 days for $17.50
• 10 GB, valid for 30 days for $33

Manet Travel Europe eSIM

Manet Travel offers various European plans.

Here’s an overview of the options available in Europe:

• European plan valid in 35 countries – from EUR 3.10
• European plan valid in 39 countries – from EUR 5.60

Onesim Europe eSIM

Onesim offers a European plan that includes coverage in 38 countries.

• 1 GB, valid for 7 days for $4.90
• 3 GB, valid for 30 days for $9.90
• 5 GB, valid for 30 days for $15.90
• 10 GB, valid for 30 days for $29.90
• 20 GB, valid for 30 days for $49.90

There’s currently an offer on the European plan.

SimOptions Europe eSIM

SimOptions offers plans from different carriers, including O2 and Orange.

• 5 GB, valid for 30 days for $17.90
• 10 GB, valid for 30 days for $24.90
• 15 GB, valid for 14 days for $29.90
• 30 GB, valid for 14 days for $49.90

AloSIM Europe eSIM

aloSIM offers a few different European plans, which is ideal if you travel in specific areas. Alternatively, they also have a plan that works in 32 countries.

• Eastern Europe
• Western Europe
• Mediterranean
• Scandinavia
• UK and Ireland

Holiday eSIM Europe

Holiday eSIM offers a few plans in Europe, including the Orange Holiday Zen , an eSIM that works in multiple European countries.

• 8 GB, valid for 30 days for $21.25 (including unlimited calls and SMS in Europe)

Best eSIM Providers For North America

If you’re traveling to North America, here are the top options available.

Note that it might already be included if you decide to go for a global plan instead.

That said, if you travel only to one country in North America, you might want to consider a local plan instead.

You’ll find lots of suitable options on Airalo and Holafly.

Holafly North America eSIM

Holafly offers one plan that covers the United States, Canada, and Mexico :

• 6 GB, valid for 15 days for $54

SimCorner USA, Canada, And Mexico

SimCorner offers 2 different plans for the United States, Canada and Mexico:

• 15 GB, valid for 30 days for $47 (including calls and SMS)
• Unlimited data, valid for 30 days for $62 (including calls and SMS)

Manet Travel North America

Manet Travel has a North American plan that works in the US, Canada, and Mexico:

• 1 GB, valid for 7 days for EUR 4.80
• 3 GB, valid for 30 days for EUR 11.40
• 5 GB, valid for 30 days for EUR 18
• 10 GB, valid for 30 days for EUR 31.80
• 20 GB, valid for 30 days for EUR 55.20

Onesim USA And Mexico

Onesim offers plans to facilitate your travels in North America, but only includes the United States and Mexico.

You’ll also get coverage in 46 countries (mainly Europe and Asia). 

• 3 GB, valid for 30 days for $11.90
• 5 GB, valid for 30 days for $18.90
• 10 GB, valid for 30 days for $34.90
• 20 GB, valid for 30 days for $59.90

SimOptions North America eSIM

SimOptions offers two plans to facilitate your travels in North America:

• 6 GB, valid for 10 days for $17.90
• 20 GB, valid for 30 days for $34.90

AloSIM North America eSIM

AloSIM offers 4 different plans in North America:

• 3 GB, valid for 7 days for $21
• 5 GB, valid for 30 days for $32.50

Best eSIM Plans Available In Asia

If you’re traveling to Asia, here are the top options for regional eSIM plans in Asia .

Note that some countries might already be included if you decide to go for a global plan instead.

Airalo Asialink eSIM

Asialink offers coverage in 13 countries. I used it this year during my travels in Asia, and it works fine.

Holafly Asia eSIM

Holafly has great Asia plans that work in 12 countries.

Holafly only offers one plan in Asia for the time being.

• 8 GB, valid for 30 days for $47

Nomad Asia eSIM

Nomad also offers plans in Asia .

• 1 GB, valid for 7 days for 6$
• 3 GB, valid for 30 days for $15
• 5 GB, valid for 30 days for $17

SimCorner Asia eSIM

SimCorner offers one eSIM plan in Asia :

• 6 GB, valid for 15 days for $36

Maya Mobile Asia eSIM

Maya Mobile offers an eSIM plan for Asia and the Pacific region that works in 12 countries.

• 3GB, valid for 30 days for $10
• 10GB, valid for 30 days for $21
• 20GB, valid for 30 days for $38

BNESIM Asia eSIM

BNESIM offers an Asia plan that includes coverage in 28 countries.

Here’s an overview of the options available in Asia :

• 1 GB, valid for 30 days, for $8.22
• 5 GB, valid for 30 days for $38.62
• 10 GB, valid for 30 days for $73.96

Note that BNESIM has a wide range of plans, so you might want to take a look at their website to compare the options available.

Yoho Mobile Asia eSIM

Yoho Mobile offers an Asia plan that includes coverage in 19 countries.

• 1 GB, valid for 7 days for $7.99
• 3 GB, valid for 10 days for $20.50
• 5 GB, valid for 15 days for $32.99
• 10 GB, valid for 30 days for $63.50

Manet Travel offers eSIMs for Asia.

• Asia plan valid in 14 countries – from EUR 5.60
• Asia plan valid in 15 countries – from EUR 3.80

Onesim Asia eSIM

Onesim offers an Asia plan that includes coverage in 32 countries.

At the moment, there’s only one option available in Asia :

• 6 GB, valid for 8 days for $16.90

SimOptions Asia eSIM

SimOptions offers plans from different carriers.

• 6 GB, valid for 12 days for $19.90

AloSIM Asia eSIM

AloSIM offers Asia Five Pack , an eSIM that works in 5 Asian countries.

• 1 GB, valid for 7 days for $5
• 3 GB, valid for 30 days for $10
• 5 GB, valid for 30 days for $15
• 10 GB, valid for 30 days for $27

Benefits Of Using An eSIM For International Travel

eSIMs offer many benefits, which is excellent news if you’re a frequent traveler.

Here are the main reasons why I love using eSIM:

• You get data as soon as you arrive.
• You can activate your eSIM immediately.
• You can keep your usual phone number and use eSIM to get data.
• You don’t need to remove your SIM card or find a store to purchase one during your travels.
• You can top up quickly.

Final Thoughts On The Best eSIM Providers For International Travel

There are many eSIM providers out there, but not all of them offer the same coverage.

I’ve tried the following eSIM companies/eSIM apps:

• Yoho Mobile
• Manet Travel

I can say that they’re all excellent eSIM providers with great eSIM plans.

If you’re looking for the best eSIM provider for international travel, I highly recommend Airalo .

Airalo App offers great regional and global plans at reasonable prices, and their coverage is excellent. In my opinion, they offer the best eSIM data plans overall.

If you’re looking for an eSIM provider with unlimited data, Holafly is a great option (but it depends on the destination).

Want more travel tips? Read one of the following guides:

• Holafly vs Airalo
• Wise vs Revolut
• Revolut travel card
• Safetywing review

MY TOP RECOMMENDATIONS

BOOK HOTEL ON BOOKING.COM

BOOK HOSTEL ON HOSTELWORLD

GET YOUR TRAVEL INSURANCE

LEARN HOW TO START A TRAVEL BLOG

LEARN HOW TO VOLUNTEER ABROAD

20 Best Travel eSIMs For Unlimited International Roaming [ France Paris Olympic 2024 ]

Home » Smartphone » Smartphone Apps

The first thing you do when you’ve reached a new country as a tourist is to find a prepaid sim for travelers, the hassle of waiting, showing your passport and etc is just not worth it. In comes eSIM for travelers, sign up for an eSIM data plan at the comfort of your home before flying. The advantage of an eSIM is there is no physical SIM cards, spotty Wi-Fi, or surprise roaming fees — just easy, affordable, flexible connectivity.

See More ▼ 8 Best Virtual International Credit And Debit Cards For Travellers

Paris Olympic 2024 is right around the corner, and for those looking forward to their holiday in France or Europe, here are some of the best prepaid eSIM plans for your European travel destination. Purchase 1 eSIM and it works across the entire European countries. As the excitement for the Paris Olympics 2024 surges, navigating the bustling streets of Paris and exploring the grandeur of European cultures becomes an adventure waiting to unfold.

1. Bouygues Telecom eSIM

European eSIM / France

Activation from anywhere in Europe, Bouygues Telecom eSIM is a French telecommunication company and they provide one of the best eSIM experience in Europe. It is historically the third of the four French national mobile telephone operators, appearing after Orange and SFR and before Free mobile. With your my European SIM Card you can enjoy unlimited calls in within all Europe (see county coverage in the coverage list). On top we give you a 25 Euro credit for calls to international and France overseas numbers for free.

After being activated in Europe use my European SIM in all of following European countries: Aland Islands, Andorra, Austria, Azores, Balearic Islands, Belgium, Bulgaria, Canary Islands, Corfu, Crete, Croatia, Cyclades, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, England, Estonia, Faroe Islands, Finland, Germany, Gibraltar, Greece, Guernsey, Hungary, Ireland, Jersey, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Madeira, Malta, Man (Isle of), Northern Ireland, Norway, Netherlands, Poland, Portugal, Rhodes Island, Romania, Sardinia, Scotland, Sicily, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Vatican, Wales, Wight (Isle of).

Free 100MB Plan

Now Available! Free 100MB data plans. No credit card required. To almost every global destination. Try GigSky for free. Great solution, fairly priced and works very well. Support is also prompt and professional. Highly recommended! Getting ready to travel? GigSky provides affordable eSIM data plans to over 190 countries and dominates the eSIM USA market, available straight from your iPhone (as a second line) or compatible iPad using its eSIM. Choose from 1-day, 15-day, or 30-day data eSIM plans.

With Holafly’s eSIM, enjoy internet connection on every adventure and forget about expensive roaming bills upon your return. Connect to the internet abroad in minutes with Holafly’s prepaid eSIM for international travel. Keep your local SIM card to receive calls (WhatsApp, iMessage, FaceTime), and don’t rely on expensive roaming fees to stay connected on your travels.

With Holafly, you can travel without worrying about extra expenses during your trips. They have prepaid eSIM cards with unlimited data covering more than 45 countries worldwide. They offer you Internet connection in regions (Europe, Asia, Latin America, North America, and the Caribbean) and countries (USA, Spain, Canada, Japan, China, etc.).

4. KnowRoaming

KnowRoaming eSIM plans keep you and your devices seamlessly connected in 200+ international destinations. Visa card holders can unlock incredible rewards, just verify your account and access your rewards today! KnowRoaming eSIMs deliver fixed-rate data at predictable prices. All the service. No roaming. No surprises.

5. Flexiroam

Flexiroam is a leading global mobile data provider that offers eSIM plans for travelers. They have a wide range of plans to choose from, including global data passes, local data plans, and group plans. Say goodbye to expensive international data roaming costs and hello to hassle free connectivity. With an eSIM, your phone becomes a global adventurer —compact, powerful, and ready for action anywhere. Embrace the future of flexible roaming and stay connected effortlessly, no matter where life takes you.

6. RedteaGO

RedteaGO is your reliable and affordable eSIM data companion for seamless travel. If you are tired of unreliable internet while traveling or the hassle of limited data domestically? RedteaGO is your answer! Their eSIM data plans provide flexible options globally at competitive rates. Stay connected to lightning-fast cellular networks in any country without the need for a physical SIM card. With our revolutionary eSIM technology, enjoy up to 90% savings on roaming mobile data fees.

Their packages include data, SMS, and phone call plans. Enjoy 24/7 connectivity with multiple network coverage and reliable customer service support. Their data plans offer transparent pricing, no hidden fees, and a pay-as-you-go option. With global coverage and seamless connectivity worldwide, you can purchase internet data for individual countries or entire continents, no additional SIM cards required. Switch effortlessly between plans and providers on a single device with our multi-eSIM support. Plus, there are no contracts or long-term commitments – cancel anytime hassle-free.

7. Global YO

Say hello to Global YO, the best eSIM app for people who love to travel. Done with crazy high roaming fees? They offer eSIM data plans and international eSIM packages that keep you online at a low cost. Experience fast mobile data in 200+ countries, low-cost calls, Al-powered celebrity city guides, personalized travel tips, access to 500+ indie films, unlimited rewards & fun, and so much more!

With over 120 Terabytes consumed by our customers in 200+ countries every month, BNESIM is the app that keeps travelers, business people, remote workers, and devices connected. Think of us as your affordable one-stop communications solution – whatever you need, we’ll be there. If you’re here to make and receive calls, participate in a conference call and get mobile data in 200+ countries without roaming fees, you’ve come to the right place.

No matter how far you travel, our call rates are pay-per-minute, and you’ll pay according to the Zone you’re calling, regardless of your location, without roaming charges. Activate the Smart CLI, and your calls will be made using a phone number belonging to the country you’re calling. Invite your contacts to download the BNESIM app so you can call each other and send SMS for free. How cool is that!?

With BNESIM, you can activate multiple landline, mobile, and toll-free numbers from 100+ countries, all together on the same BNESIM account, in seconds. Your incoming calls can be terminated on the BNESIM app, a desktop phone, the voicemail, forwarded to other phone numbers, or even to a conference room.

AirHub eSIM – A mobile App-based Local and International Prepaid eSIM Card for business, leisure travelers and students. AirHub eSIM provides easy access to global text, data, and calling facilities on this eSIM by having commercial tie-ups with leading cellular services connectivity while traveling abroad. AirHub eSIM offers the best and most economical prepaid eSIM plans for 200+ international destinations including the UK, USA, Thailand, Japan, Singapore, Jordan, India, China eSIM 海外 旅行, France, Germany, and many others on your latest smartphones, iPADs, tablets, and laptops.

Need mobile data instantly? With aloSIM, you can load prepaid eSIM data packages onto your phone, tablet, or computer. Stay connected with international mobile data anytime, anywhere with aloSIM — your downloadable eSIM providing prepaid, on-demand local carrier data in 170+ countries. Forget physical SIM cards, in-store visits, or Wi-Fi devices; aloSIM offers seamless, unrestricted premium LTE, 4G, and 5G connectivity.

Whether you’re communicating via email, browsing social media, connecting on FaceTime, browsing the internet, using maps or iMessage, gaming online, or streaming videos and music, aloSIM gives you affordable mobile data without data roaming charges.

• Choose from an extensive list of supported eSIM activations from 200+ international carriers like AT&T, T-Mobile, Vodafone, Orange, Telefonica, Movistar, and many more for an effortless communication experience with 5G networks where available.
• aloSIM is compatible with a vast array of eSIM-supported devices, including but not limited to: iPhone XR through iPhone 14 Pro Max, iPhone SE (2nd & 3rd generation), iPad Air (3rd & 4th generation), iPad Pro 12.9-inch (3rd, 4th, 5th generation), iPad Pro 11-inch (1st, 2nd, 3rd generation), iPad (7th, 8th, 9th generation), and iPad Mini (5th & 6th generation).

11. Nomad eSIM

Travel like a local with Nomad! Get high speed, flexible, no-contract eSIM data and SMS at unbeatable prices. No more switching out SIM cards – get connected in 5 minutes! Install and activate eSIMs in 165+ countries and 8 regions. Get international eSIM data plans from as low as $1.5 / GB across Europe, North America, Asia and many more.

12. Monty eSIM

Monty eSIM provides the best connectivity you can ask for, whether you’re a regular traveler, or just someone enjoying their vacation. You can now download up to 10 eSIM profiles using our app, with any compatible device, wherever you may be around the world.

Monty eSIM Coverage Extends to over 190+ Countries & regions such as United Kingdom, Germany, Turkey, Thailand, Italy, Canada, France, Egypt, Spain, The Gambia, Netherlands, Japan, United States, Portugal, Morocco, Colombia, India, South Africa, Ireland, Mexico, Dominican Republic, Chile and many more.

Stay connected wherever you travel. With an Airalo eSIM (digital SIM), you can connect like a local in 200+ countries and regions worldwide. An Airalo eSIM plan gives you access to mobile data, call, and text services. You can choose a prepaid local, regional, or global eSIM plan to get online in 200+ countries and regions worldwide. Simply download an eSIM, install it on your device, and connect to a mobile network when you arrive at your destination!

Available for 200+ countries and regions, including such as United States, United Kingdom, Turkey, Italy, France, Spain, Japan, Germany, Canada, Thailand, Portugal, Morocco, Colombia, India, South Africa, Ireland, Mexico, Egypt, Dominican Republic, Chile, and etc.

Using eSIM compatible phones, the Yesim travel app lets you connect to the best networks worldwide. Additionally, with our new feature – virtual phone number, you can receive SMS message verifications or other important communications directly in the Yesim app, without needing an eSIM! Yesim eSIM Mobile Data has you covered.

You can use your virtual phone number in any country. As for the numbers themselves (country codes), Yesim offers them for the following countries and regions: Canada, Israel, the Netherlands, and the United States. The list of countries is regularly updated and expanded. Your private virtual phone number provides SMS account verification with the following services: Google (Gmail), Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and Tinder. It also supports such online payment systems as Binance and PayPal.

15. MTX Connect

Unlimited internet all over the world – with a single MTX Connect eSIM. MTX Connect is Europe’s mobile internet carrier, with a fast and secure network worldwide (4G/5G). With an MTX Connect SIM Card or eSIM, you’re always online – without the hassle of roaming charges. Choose one of the fixed tariffs to suit your needs, then play, chat, browse and watch videos across the globe. Whether you’re a globetrotter, a business traveller, or just seeking a reliable connection abroad, MTX Connect ensures you’re always just a tap away from home.

No more searching for local SIMs. Get connected as soon as you land. Enjoy lightning-fast 4G and 5G speeds with transparent pricing, no more hidden fees and roaming charges. Choose from our flexible, affordable plans tailored to your travel needs. Your online safety is our priority. MTX Connect provides a secure connection, safeguarding your data from public Wi-Fi threats. Browse, stream, and work with peace of mind.

DENT offers you mobile internet while you are traveling for pleasure or work. Their Gigabytes are always usable in 80+ countries. No hassle to install an eSIM for each individual country anymore. We love simple.

DENT eSIM mobile data keeps you connected to the fastest 4G/LTE wireless internet. If your local mobile operator charges outrageous roaming fees and provides lackluster service overseas, you’re getting ripped off! Install your eSIM now so you are ready to go when you touch the ground.

17. GoMoWorld

GoMoWorld connects you to a local partner network, so you get all the benefits of roaming without the high charges. Get data when you travel from the moment you arrive with plans. Through one app via eSIM, dodge high roaming charges and the stress of WiFi searching when abroad. No Contracts. No Hidden Costs. Download your travel eSIM with the GoMoWorld App, and dodge high data roaming charges when traveling abroad.

Keepgo is a leading developer of global connectivity solutions for IoT, M2M and broadband devices. Utilizing physical SIM cards and virtual SIM card specifications, Keepgo solutions connect hundreds of thousands of devices on 500 cellular networks in 100+ countries.

We offer a complete, ready-to-go, AI-powered eSIM platform that helps companies to sell eSIM to their customers. Customers get affordable, premium-quality access to 500+ cellular networks in 150+ countries, thanks to our 12-year track record of partnerships and integrations with top MNOs and MVNOs around the world.

Navigate the world of connectivity with Saily — your gateway to seamless e-SIM services. Say goodbye to physical SIM cards and embrace digital convenience wherever you go. With Saily, you can get internet data with a few taps, avoid costly roaming fees, and travel the world connected. Saily is a global eSIM service for travelers who want to stay connected on their trips. It offers hundreds of flexible travel data plans in over 150 countries, quick setup and 24/7 chat support.

Textr eSIM is the perfect travel companion to make your vacation one for the books! Get connected at top speed and experience reliable local networks in over 130 countries. Enjoy your stress-free traveling at an incredible price point.

Textr eSIM is intended for travelers and business persons who often travel to other countries for personal or professional requirements. High-speed and stable internet connections help to connect with local carriers of a country for communications and other purposes. Download the data plan to switch your cellular data pack to Textr line.

Stork Mobile is Europe based and provides affordable esim for international travel. Stork Mobile re-invents how to stay connected, all the time. With Stork Mobile, you can enjoy low-cost mobile internet when traveling internationally. No longer a need to swap SIM cards or to risk losing one. Works in Europe, North America, Oceania, and Asia.

Recommended for you:

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

• International
• Politics & Society
• Photo Report
• Relationships
• Learn Dutch
• Attractions
• Restaurants
• Scheveningen
• International Travel
• Bank for Internationals
• Dutch Language School
• International School
• Recruitment Agency
• Relocation Service
• Real Estate Agencies
• Tax Accountant
• Mortgage Advisor
• Psychologist
• DutchReview Team
• Privacy Policy
• Take Down and Notice
• Advertise with DutchReview
• Submit an article
• Editorial Internships

🚀 New feature alert! Find the best businesses for internationals on  DutchReview's Business Directory

eSIMs in the Netherlands: The ultimate 2024 guide + the best options

Easy, hassle-free connectivity? Check! ✅

Choosing an eSIM offers the best of both worlds: you get all the perks of a regular SIM card, plus the freedom of data roaming — without breaking the bank! 🤳🏼✨

In this guide, we’ve tested the best eSIM providers and discovered exactly what makes them great — or not — options for you.

TIP: In a hurry? These are our top picks for an eSIM in the Netherlands. 👇

💸 All-round cheapest eSIM: Airalo ☎️ Best eSIM for calling and texting: Simyo 🗺️ Best eSIM for travellers: Holafly 📲 Best eSIM for a mobile number: Odido

This post might have affiliate links that help us write the articles you love, at no extra cost to you. Read our statement .

What is an eSIM?

Also known as an ‘embedded SIM’, an eSIM is a virtual SIM card that you can purchase and install on your devices.

Because eSIMs operate digitally (as opposed to physical SIM cards), they can be used in mobile phones, tablets, and even in smart watches.

This functionality makes them ideal for globetrotters: you can buy a SIM card for your travels from home — and instantly access mobile data and calling/texting capabilities when you arrive.

Best eSIM plans in the Netherlands

If you’re on the hunt for the best eSIM plans to cover your trip to the Netherlands (or abroad), we’ve ranked providers by price, value, coverage, and ease of access.

Here are the best of the best! 🙌

Simyo: Best eSIM for new residents in the Netherlands

In contrast to many local eSIM providers that only provide mobile data plans, Simyo offers inexpensive eSIM packages for calling and texting.

You can even choose between a flexible prepaid subscription or a committed SIM-only plan. The only downside? Most contracts last one to two years.

Airalo: Best eSIM for tourists on a budget

With a starting price of just €4.15, Airalo is as easy on your wallet as it is effortless to install — providing you access to affordable eSIM plans for the Netherlands.

But here’s the catch: Airalo only offers short-term packages, ranging from 7 to 30 days.

Holafly: Best unlimited data eSIM for travellers

Jam-packed with features like unlimited data, automatic connectivity the minute your plane touches down, and a choice of the best data providers in each region, Holafly eSIMs are a premium choice for travel lovers.

However, do take note: While they offer unlimited data, Holafly’s plans tend to be pricier than many other options on this list.

KPN: Best local eSIM for excellent coverage

KPN consistently ranks as one of the best Dutch mobile data providers, thanks to its blazing fast upload/download speeds.

The cherry on top? You’ll also get access to some of the most expansive coverage in the Netherlands. The downside? It comes at a heftier price.

Vodafone: Best local eSIM for unlimited data

Offering unlimited data and unlimited calling/messaging capabilities, Vodafone’s Red Unlimited eSIM packages are geared towards heavy data-users.

Plus, with a whopping 40GB of data to use within Europe, you won’t be running out anytime soon — even if you’ve hopped over the Dutch border.

Odido: Best local eSIM for a mobile number

Unlike many eSIM packages that only offer you a bundle of mobile data, Odido’s eSIMs come with a mobile number.

This is a stellar option if you’d like the calling and texting functionality of a regular SIM — but don’t want the hassle of applying for one.

Nomad: Best wallet-friendly eSIM for European travel

If you’re planning a jaunt around Europe, Nomad’s regional plans are some of the handiest and most affordable options on this list.

You can choose between a comprehensive eSIM package covering all European countries — or a more localised (and wallet-friendly) eSIM package for the Netherlands.

3 things you need to know about Dutch eSIMs

Are you champing at the bit to purchase your own eSIM, but have some lingering questions you’d like answered before biting the bullet?

Here are three important things you need to know about eSIMs before you purchase one! 👇

1. An eSIM can save you money on data roaming costs

If you’re planning on travelling through Europe, then a regional (i.e. Europe-specific) eSIM is generally far cheaper overall than activating roaming on your phone.

And, depending on your eSIM of choice, this option can also be more affordable than buying a local SIM at the destination you’re travelling to.

READ MORE | Unlimited data SIM cards in the Netherlands: the ultimate guide

Good to know: If you already have a mobile data subscription from an EU country, you can use your provider’s Roam Like at Home feature instead.

This enables you to use your existing subscription wherever in the EU you travel — though unlimited data users may notice that their plan is capped at a lower number of GBs per month.

2. You can use multiple eSIMs on the same device

One of the key benefits of using an eSIM is the ability to utilise several SIM cards on the same device.

This enables you to keep your home mobile number if you’re travelling through Europe, for example — even if you’ve bought a separate SIM card to cover your stay in the Netherlands.

3. Not all devices are compatible with eSIMs

Unfortunately, if your device is an older model, it’ll likely be incompatible with most eSIMs on the Dutch market.

However, if you have an iPhone XS or newer, you’re in luck! For Samsung, anything newer than a Galaxy S21 will generally also work.

In very rare cases, certain regions may even be blacklisted by some eSIM companies.

Have you used an eSIM in the Netherlands before? Tell us all about your experience in the comments!

You might also be interested in:

• Mobile phones and SIM cards in the Netherlands: ultimate 2024 guide
• The best SIM-only plans in the Netherlands: the ultimate guide
• The best credit cards for expats in the Netherlands
• Utilities in the Netherlands: the ultimate guide to gas, electricity, and water
• The best banks in the Netherlands for internationals in 2024

eSIMs in the Netherlands: Frequently asked questions

What’s the best esim in the netherlands.

Choosing the best eSIM will largely be a subjective choice, as some users may prioritise price or being able to order a new mobile number over other factors.

In general, however, the best eSIMs in the Netherlands are those offered by Airalo , Holafly , and Simyo — as well as plans from Dutch mobile data providers KPN , Odido , and Vodafone .

Are eSIMs available in the Netherlands?

Yes, several international eSIM companies offer plans that cover the Netherlands — in addition to the several Dutch mobile data providers that also sell eSIMs.

Which Dutch data providers offer eSIMs?

KPN , Odido , Vodafone , and Simyo are several of the Dutch mobile data providers that also offer eSIM packages.

Is my phone compatible with a Dutch eSIM?

Provided that your phone is a relatively recent model (typically from 2018 or 2019 onwards), there’s a high chance that it’ll be compatible with a Dutch eSIM.

Can I use both an eSIM and a physical SIM in the Netherlands?

As eSIMs can be activated whenever they are needed, users can load both their physical SIM and an eSIM on the same mobile device.

Liked it? Try these on for size:

Is smoking weed in amsterdam legal (+ 7 best coffeeshops), 3 things we don’t like about the aftermath of king’s day festivities, 5 things to do on king’s day to celebrate the dutch way, what do you think, leave a reply cancel reply.

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

The latest Dutch news. In your inbox.

Woah, you look pretty good here.

We're constantly hunting for the latest, greatest, and most Dutch spots for our readers. Want your business to reach an unrivalled expat and international audience?

We like you - a lot

© 2023 All Rights Reserved. All material on this website (DutchReview) is strictly copyright and all rights reserved. If you are dissatisfied with the website or any content or materials on it, your sole exclusive remedy is to discontinue your use of the website. The website may provide links to other websites on the Internet, the content of which is not in our control. Whilst every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, the publisher cannot accept responsibility for omissions and errors. If you have found material on this website which is copyrighted by others, please contact the webmaster on this matter in order to have it removed.

eSIM Research

The Best eSIM for Europe Travel in 2024

Are you planning a trip to Europe in 2024 and wondering what the best option is for mobile data? These days, many travelers are opting for the convenience of an eSIM data plan instead of dealing with the hassle of physical SIM cards. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about finding the  best eSIM for Europe  travel, including top providers, pricing, data allowances, coverage, and more.

What is an eSIM?

First, let’s clarify what an eSIM is. An  eSIM  (embedded SIM) is a digital SIM that allows you to activate a mobile data plan from your device, without having to use a physical SIM card. Many new smartphones, including iPhones and Google Pixels, have eSIM functionality in addition to a traditional SIM card slot.

The main advantage of an eSIM for travelers is that it’s quick and easy to activate a prepaid data plan upon arrival in a new country, without having to locate a store and purchase a physical SIM card. You can often buy and set up an eSIM before you even leave home. An eSIM also allows you to keep your primary SIM active for calls and texts on your regular number.

Advantages of an eSIM for Europe Travel

Here are some of the key benefits of using an eSIM on your trip to Europe:

• Convenience – Set up your data plan before you travel or upon arrival in seconds
• Dual SIM functionality – Use an eSIM for data while keeping your primary SIM active
• Competitive pricing – Plans are often cheaper than roaming with your home carrier
• Wide coverage – Europe-wide plans cover you across multiple countries
• High speeds – Access local 4G/5G networks for fast data speeds

Key Considerations When Choosing an eSIM

When comparing different  eSIM  options for your Europe trip, here are the main factors to consider:

• Pricing – How much does the plan cost for the duration of your trip?
• Data allowance – Will you have enough data, based on your expected usage?
• Coverage – Which countries are included, and will you have coverage everywhere you plan to go?
• Setup – How easy is it to purchase and activate? Can it be done in advance?
• Validity – How long will the plan last once activated?
• Speed – Will you get access to fast, reliable 4G/5G networks?

With these factors in mind, let’s take a look at some of the best eSIM providers and plans for Europe travel in 2024.

Orange Holiday Europe eSIM

Orange is one of Europe’s largest mobile carriers and they offer convenient prepaid eSIM plans geared specifically toward travelers under their Orange Holiday brand.

Key details:

• Pricing: Plans start at €14.99 for 8GB
• Data: 8GB, 15GB, 30GB, or 50GB options
• Coverage: 30 European countries
• Calls/texts: 8GB plan is data-only, other plans include some call and text allowances
• Validity: 14 days for 8GB and 15GB plans, 28 days for 30GB and 50GB plans
• Extras: Free mobile hotspot usage

The Orange Holiday Europe eSIM offers generous data packages at competitive rates. The inclusion of calls, texts, and mobile hotspot data on the higher-tier plans offers nice added value for travelers who need those features.

The main limitation is the 14/28 day validity, so you’ll need to purchase multiple plans for longer trips. But overall, the Orange Holiday Europe eSIM is an excellent choice, especially given Orange’s extensive European network coverage.

Holafly Europe eSIM

Holafly is a newer player in the eSIM market but they’ve quickly established themselves as a top option for travelers.

• Pricing: Plans start at $19 for unlimited data
• Data: Unlimited
• Coverage: 32 European countries
• Calls/texts: Voice calls excluded, texts excluded
• Validity: 5 to 90 days
• Extras: N/A

Holafly’s standout feature is their unlimited data offering. While “unlimited” plans often come with an asterisk, in this case there doesn’t appear to be any major catches – you get uncapped, unthrottled data for the duration of your plan. Just keep in mind it’s data-only, no calls or texts.

The range of plan lengths, from 5 to 90 days, is also a strong selling point, as it offers more flexibility than plans from providers like Orange.

Airalo eSIMs

Airalo is a well-established eSIM store that offers a variety of regional eSIM plans, including several good options for Europe.

• Pricing: Plans start at $9 for 1GB
• Data: 1GB to 10GB
• Coverage: 39 European countries
• Calls/texts: Data-only
• Validity: 7 to 30 days

The main advantage of Airalo is the number of country-specific plans they offer, allowing you to mix and match different eSIMs as you travel across Europe. This can be a good option if you’re visiting countries with varying prices and coverage.

The downside is that most Airalo plans are relatively small in terms of data. They offer a 10GB Europe-wide plan valid for 30 days, but it’s one of the pricier options at $27. A few countries also have 5GB/30 day plans for around $13.

Airalo eSIMs are a solid choice for lighter data users and shorter trips, but if you need a lot of data across multiple countries, one of the larger Europe-wide plans from Orange or Holafly will likely be a better value.

Nomad Europe eSIM

Nomad is a global eSIM provider that offers regional plans for Europe, North America, and other areas.

• Pricing: $26 for 10GB
• Validity: 30 days

Nomad’s Europe eSIM stacks up pretty closely to the 30-day plans offered by Airalo, with 10GB of data valid for 30 days. The main advantage of Nomad is the wider coverage, with a reported 30 European countries included versus Airalo’s 15-20 for most plans.

If your European adventure includes less-visited countries like Albania or Bosnia, Nomad may be the better choice. But the plans are data-only and on the pricier end at $26 for 10GB.

Local Carrier eSIMs

Another option is to purchase an eSIM data plan directly from a local carrier in the first European country you visit. Most major European carriers, like Vodafone, Deutsche Telekom/T-Mobile, and Telefónica offer prepaid eSIM plans.

The advantage of this approach is that you may get cheaper rates than a regional/global eSIM provider, and you’ll have access to that carrier’s full local network and coverage. The downside is that you’ll need to purchase a new eSIM each time you change countries, which can be a hassle if you’re on a multi-country trip.

If you’re making a single-country visit, it’s worth checking to see if a local carrier eSIM might be your best bet. But for most travelers visiting multiple European countries, a regional eSIM plan will likely be more convenient and cost-effective.

Which eSIM Plan is Right For You?

With all these  eSIM  options to choose from, which is the best one for your Europe trip? Here are some suggestions based on common travel scenarios:

• Backpacking trip : Orange Holiday Europe eSIM. Backpackers tend to use a lot of data for maps, photos, and staying connected. Go with the 15GB plan if your trip is under 14 days or the 30GB plan for longer journeys.
• Two-week vacation : Holafly 10-day or 15-day plan. If you’re taking a short trip and just need reliable data access, Holafly’s generous data limits and reasonable prices make them a good pick.
• Month-long stay : Airalo 30-day regional plan. Airalo’s 10GB Europe-wide plan for $27 offers solid value and coverage for a month-long trip. You may need to keep data usage in check or add another plan at the end if you’re a heavy user.
• Multi-month study abroad/work trip : Orange Holiday Europe eSIM 50GB plan. For longer stays, the Orange Holiday Europe 50GB plan offers the best combination of ample data, broad coverage, and 28-day validity. You’ll likely still need to re-up once or twice, but this is the most cost-effective option for heavy data users.

Tips for Using an eSIM in Europe

Once you’ve got your  eSIM for Europe  set up, here are a few tips to keep in mind:

• Download the provider’s app before you go. This will make it easy to activate your plan, track usage, and top up if needed.
• Bring a paper clip or eSIM tool in case you need to switch back to a physical SIM at any point.
• Keep an eye on your data usage, especially if you have a plan with a limit. Most provider apps have usage tracking features.
• If you’re using an iPhone, you can set your eSIM as your default data line in your cellular settings. This way your data usage will automatically draw from your eSIM.
• Consider turning off data roaming for your primary SIM line so you don’t accidentally incur charges from your home carrier.
• If you’re traveling to non-EU countries like Switzerland, the UK, or Turkey, double check that your eSIM plan includes coverage there.

With a little planning and the right  eSIM card for Europe , staying connected abroad is easier than ever. Whether you go with an established player like Orange or a newer provider like Holafly, you’ll enjoy convenient, reliable data access everywhere your European travels take you.

Final Thoughts on eSIMs for European Travel

The rise of eSIM technology has been a game-changer for international travelers, especially in well-connected regions like Europe. Gone are the days of hunting down local SIM cards or racking up massive roaming charges from your home carrier.

An eSIM data plan is affordable, easy to set up, and can offer a seamless connectivity experience across multiple countries. You’ll have plenty of options to choose from, whether you just need a few gigs for a quick city break or unlimited data for an extended odyssey.

As eSIM support becomes standard on more devices and more carriers expand their eSIM offerings, the options for staying connected abroad will only continue to grow. So on your next trip to Europe, consider giving an eSIM a try and enjoy the freedom of reliable data at your fingertips wherever you roam. After all, in this digital age, there’s no better way to make the most of your travel adventures than with the  best eSIM for Europe  in your pocket.

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.