Best eSIM Providers for Travellers

Regular SIM cards are pretty straightforward to use. You simply insert them into your phone to connect to a mobile network. If you want to switch to a new phone, you’ll take out the card and place it in the new device. Then your number and plan move along with it. But when you’re traveling or frequently switching networks, embedded SIMs are far more convenient. 

The chip is already in your phone when you buy it, and is built directly into the phone’s hardware. There’s no need to insert anything later. When you want to activate it, you just download your carrier’s information over Wi-Fi or through an app, and the eSIM gets set up digitally. Unless your phone is stolen, the SIM itself is hard to lose. If you’re considering getting one, here are the best providers to help you transition smoothly.

Note: Some of the SIM providers mentioned offer data-only plans. You won’t be able to make calls or send text messages. However, you can still do all those things through apps like WhatsApp, as long as you have an active mobile data connection from your eSIM.

KnowRoaming

KnowRoaming covers a range of countries across all continents, the United States, Canada, Mexico, Greece, Switzerland, Portugal, and more. Once you choose a data package, complete the purchase and you’ll get a QR code. Scan the code with your smartphone or tablet, and the eSIM is installed on your device. 

When you arrive at your destination, the eSIM automatically connects to the local network, allowing you to use data, make calls, and send texts. KnowRoaming’s plans start around $2 for Singapore and some other countries. Popular destinations like the USA, UK, Canada, France, and Japan start around $4 to $9.

More remote places, like Papua New Guinea, cost about $38, while places like Tonga are around $23. Global plans begin at $9, which is fair if you’re traveling to multiple countries.

Jetpac

Jetpac eSIM is a good choice if you need short-term data and 5G support in many countries. They don’t support phone calls or text messages, so you’ll rely on data connection.

Jetpac also offers extra perks, including airport lounge access if your flight is delayed and a free 30-day ExpressVPN trial to protect your connection while you wait and browse. You can monitor your data usage, top up, or change plans on their mobile app. It’s affordable, with options like 10GB of data going for $35 for 30 days or a 30GB plan for $60.

Nomad

Nomad’s pricing is cheaper than Jetpac, starting at around $1 per Gigabyte in some regions. They also offer plans for short stays spanning 7-15 days or longer, and there are no hidden fees or activation costs. Plus, in some countries, they provide unlimited data options for heavy users.

You’ll receive a notification when you’re running low or when your plan is about to expire. You have the choice of buying an add-on from Nomad’s store to add more data to your current plan. The new data will be added to your existing plan, not as a separate one.

Yesim

Yesim services are quite expensive, but they have coverage in over 200 countries. Prices start at around $1.40 per Gigabyte in many locations and they have a loyalty program where you can earn credits for future purchases or referrals.

You can check if your device is compatible on their website. Yesim will even give you a local phone number for calls and texts. However, after using a certain amount of data, your speeds might slow down, especially on unlimited plans.

Ubigi

Ubigi is a data-only eSIM provider. But they’re also a full Mobile Virtual Network Operator (MVNO), which means they have their own complete network, not just borrowing from other companies. They have control over pricing, which is pretty competitive. 

Tethering is another thing to expect, as Ubigi allows you to share your mobile data with anyone else you’re traveling with.  Plus, Ubigi supports 5G, so you’ll get fast and reliable internet speeds while you’re on the move.

Vegolink

Vegolink gives you a UK number, and focuses primarily on data services. Your balance doesn’t expire as long as you reload or use it periodically, which is an added bonus if you travel infrequently.

Like Jetpac, they offer data-only services starting at $10. The eSIM is preloaded with data and sets itself up automatically after you install it. Once you buy it, you’ll get a QR code by email within 24 hours. Scan it on your phone to activate the eSIM.

You can check your data balance or add more if needed. If you don’t use the eSIM for a year, or if your balance stays at zero for over a year, it may be deactivated. Vegolink also offers a 30-day money-back guarantee if you decide to leave.

Flexiroam

eSIM providers can be expensive because their pricing often includes convenience and international roaming charges rather than just the cost of data. This means you might end up paying for ease of use and access to global networks, which can add up even if your trip is short or budget-friendly. It’s why you need an affordable provider on your side. 

Flexiroam’s voice and data plans offer a pay-as-you-go structure where you only pay for what you use. Also, one person can buy a single data plan and share it across multiple devices, rather than everyone needing their own data plan. 

Stay connected around the world

When you’ve gotten your SIM, you’ll want to be careful how you use your data to avoid unnecessary costs. One way to save on your trip is to use Public Wi-Fi. With the right precautions, it can be a handy tool for stretching your data plan. Connect to trusted networks in hotels, cafes, or airports and use a VPN.

You can also make small adjustments like disabling auto-updates, downloading content beforehand, and using airplane mode when not needed. Every megabyte counts in a foreign place, so careful planning will help you avoid overspending.