Staying connected to the internet while traveling to another country used to be expensive and hard. Travelers had to pay high roaming fees to their home phone company or wait in long airport lines to buy tiny plastic SIM cards. Today, digital SIM technology makes getting mobile internet fast, cheap, and simple.
According to Juniper Research, travel eSIMs save users about 35% per gigabyte compared to regular international roaming, reducing the average cost from $8.57 to $5.50 per gigabyte. Furthermore, Kaleido Intelligence reports that global traveler spending on travel eSIMs reached $3.3 billion after growing by 165%, yet the typical traveler spends less than $15 per trip on mobile data. This guide reviews the ten best eSIM providers for international travel in 2027, helping you compare eSIMs for international travel and stay connected anywhere.
Comparison of Top eSIMs for International Travel
| eSIM Provider | Coverage | Plan Types | Starting Price | Calls and Texts | Hotspot Support | Standout Feature |
| Airalo | 200+ destinations | Fixed and unlimited | $4.00 | Select global plans | Yes | Airmoney cashback rewards |
| Holafly | 200+ destinations | Unlimited data only | $9.50 | Data only | 500 MB to 1 GB daily | Custom 1 to 90 day plans |
| Saily | 200+ destinations | Fixed and unlimited | $3.99 | Data only | Yes, full | Built in ad blocker and security |
| Nomad | 200+ destinations | Fixed and day plans | $1.00 | Data only | Yes, full | Low rates on big data packs |
| Ubigi | 200+ destinations | One off and monthly | $2.00 | Data only | Yes, full | Offline top up without WiFi |
| Jetpac | 200+ destinations | Fixed and unlimited | $10.00 | Outgoing app calls | Yes, full | Free lounge pass on flight delay |
| aloSIM | 200+ destinations | Fixed data plans | $3.50 | Free Hushed number | Yes, full | Free call and text credits |
| GigSky | 200+ countries, 290 ships | Land, cruise, flight | $2.99 | Data only | Yes, full | Works on cruise ships and planes |
| Maya Mobile | 165+ countries | Fixed and unlimited | $14.99 | Data only | Yes, full | 180 day money back guarantee |
| Roamless | 200+ destinations | Pay as you go, fixed | $5.00 | In app voice calls | Yes, full | Wallet funds never expire |
List of Top 10 eSIMs for International Travel
1. Airalo
- Website: http://airalo.com/
Airalo is the biggest and most popular digital SIM store in the world, serving more than 30 million travelers across over 200 countries and regions. You can buy local plans for one country, regional plans for a whole continent, or global plans that work almost everywhere. Most packages give you mobile data only, while select global plans also include voice calls and text messages. Its simple mobile app makes buying and adding extra data very easy.
Key Features:
- Local, regional, and global plans across more than 200 destinations.
- Airmoney cashback rewards on every purchase for future discounts.
- One click automatic install on modern iPhones and Android phones.
- Voice calls and SMS texts included on Discover+ global packages.
Pros:
- Huge range of country and regional plans for any trip.
- Simple app design that is very easy for beginners.
- Fast data top ups without installing a second eSIM.
Cons:
- Price per gigabyte is higher than some smaller rivals.
- Most country plans do not include a phone number.
- Live chat support can be slow during busy holidays.
Why Choose:
- You want the most trusted travel eSIM app used by millions.
- You want one regional plan covering up to 41 European countries.
Best For:
- First time eSIM buyers wanting an easy setup process.
- Multi country travelers needing regional or global coverage.
2. Holafly
- Website: http://esim.holafly.com/
Holafly is a top travel eSIM company known for offering unlimited mobile data plans in more than 200 destinations around the world. It is a convenient option for eSIMs for international travel, allowing users to pick the exact number of days they need, from one day up to 90 days, instead of counting gigabytes. This makes it a stress-free choice for heavy internet users who watch videos, make video calls, and use map apps all day. It also provides fast 24-hour live chat customer support.
Key Features:
- Unlimited mobile data included on every travel plan sold.
- Custom plan lengths from 1 day up to 90 days.
- 24 hour live human chat support in many languages.
- Fast 4G and 5G connections in over 200 destinations.
Pros:
- Total peace of mind because your data never runs out.
- Custom day picker lets you pay only for exact trip days.
- Helpful customer support team available day and night.
Cons:
- Higher upfront cost than small fixed data bundles.
- Daily mobile hotspot sharing is capped at 500 MB to 1 GB.
- Travel plans do not include phone calls or SMS texts.
Why Choose:
- You hate counting gigabytes and want unlimited daily internet.
- You want a plan matching an exact 9 day or 16 day trip.
Best For:
- Video streamers and social media creators using heavy data.
- Business travelers needing worry free internet without top ups.
3. Saily
- Website: http://saily.com/
Saily is a secure and low cost travel eSIM service created by Nord Security, the team behind NordVPN. It works in over 200 destinations and only needs a single digital SIM install for all your future trips. What makes Saily special is its built in safety tools, including an ad blocker, web protection against bad websites, and a virtual location changer. These tools keep your phone safe on public networks while saving your mobile data.
Key Features:
- Built in ad blocker saves nearly 28% more mobile data.
- Virtual location switcher across dozens of global country servers.
- Single reusable eSIM profile works across 200+ destinations.
- Unlimited plans offer 5 GB of full speed data daily.
Pros:
- Built in privacy tools block dangerous links and heavy ads.
- Cheap starter plans begin at just $3.99 for 1 GB.
- One time eSIM install works for all future trips.
Cons:
- Needs a stable WiFi connection to complete initial setup.
- Country plans do not include regular voice calling minutes.
- Fewer mid size packages in smaller island destinations.
Why Choose:
- You want online safety tools built by the makers of NordVPN.
- You want an ad blocker that makes your gigabytes last longer.
Best For:
- Privacy minded travelers checking bank accounts and work emails.
- Budget tourists looking for cheap 1 GB to 20 GB plans.
4. Nomad
- Website: http://getnomad.app/
Nomad is a great-value travel eSIM app operated by LotusFlare that covers more than 200 countries and regions, making it a popular choice for eSIMs for international travel. It is famous for offering some of the lowest prices per gigabyte on medium and large fixed data bundles, such as 10GB and 50GB plans. Travelers can also choose daily unlimited passes in popular countries. The app is clean, easy to understand, and allows full mobile hotspot sharing across all your connected devices.
Key Features:
- Very low cost per gigabyte on 10 GB to 50 GB bundles.
- Free trial data plan available for first time app users.
- Connects to multiple local mobile networks in each country.
- Unrestricted hotspot sharing allowed on all fixed data plans.
Pros:
- Lowest fixed data prices across Europe, Asia, and North America.
- Clean smartphone app with clear data usage tracking bars.
- No daily caps when sharing fixed data over hotspot.
Cons:
- Most fixed data packages expire after 30 days.
- Cannot be bought after arriving inside countries like India.
- Does not include a phone number for regular calls.
Why Choose:
- You want to pay around $2.00 per gigabyte on bigger bundles.
- You need to share phone internet with a laptop without limits.
Best For:
- Bargain hunters wanting low rates on medium data packs.
- Two week vacationers needing 10 GB to 20 GB of data.
Suggested Read:
5. Ubigi
- Website: http://cellulardata.ubigi.com/
Ubigi is a trusted global mobile data service backed by NTT Group, a huge telecom company with strong carrier partnerships in over 200 destinations. Unlike smaller resellers, Ubigi uses its own direct network links to deliver fast 5G speeds and low delay in places like Japan, Europe, and the United States. You install one reusable eSIM profile once, and you can top up your account inside the app even when your data reaches zero.
Key Features:
- Allows data top ups inside the app without WiFi or data.
- Includes fast 5G network access in major countries for free.
- Offers one off packs plus monthly and yearly plans.
- Works on phones, iPads, Windows laptops, and select cars.
Pros:
- Zero data top up feature stops you from getting stranded offline.
- Direct telecom links give fast and stable 5G internet speeds.
- Reusable eSIM stays on your phone for all future trips.
Cons:
- App interface looks older than newer competitor apps.
- Does not include built in ad blockers or privacy tools.
- Data only plans with no phone calls or SMS texts.
Why Choose:
- You want strong 5G speeds backed by a major telecom group.
- You want to top up your plan even without an internet connection.
Best For:
- Travelers visiting Japan, Europe, or the United States.
- Frequent flyers wanting one permanent eSIM on their devices.
6. Jetpac
- Website: http://jetpacglobal.com/
Jetpac is a smart travel eSIM provider covering more than 200 destinations with one reusable digital SIM card. It stands out from the crowd by giving travelers extra airport perks and helpful safety nets. Even if your bought data runs out, Jetpac keeps essential apps like WhatsApp chat, Google Maps, and Uber working for free. Furthermore, if your registered flight is delayed, Jetpac gives you free airport lounge access for a comfortable wait.
Key Features:
- Keeps WhatsApp chat, Google Maps, and Uber working at zero data.
- SmartDelay perk gives free airport lounge access on delayed flights.
- In app voice calling reaches phones in over 50 countries.
- Connects to multiple local networks for better signal coverage.
Pros:
- Free access to maps and ride apps after data runs out.
- New user starter plans often begin at just $1.00.
- Full 100% money back guarantee if the eSIM fails.
Cons:
- Lounge perk requires registering your flight before departure.
- In app calling supports outgoing phone calls only.
- Large bundles can cost slightly more than Nomad.
Why Choose:
- You want backup access to maps and Uber if data hits zero.
- You love getting free airport lounge passes when flights delay.
Best For:
- Solo travelers who never want to lose access to maps.
- Frequent flyers wanting extra airport perks with their data.
7. aloSIM
- Website: http://alosim.com/
aloSIM is a beginner-friendly travel eSIM app built by the Canadian company AffinityClick, covering over 200 countries worldwide. Among the convenient eSIMs for international travel, aloSIM stands out by including a free international phone number through its sister app Hushed with your data purchase. This lets you make real phone calls and send text messages while abroad. The app also features a helpful data calculator so you never buy more gigabytes than you need.
Key Features:
- Includes a free phone number and call credits via Hushed.
- Built in data calculator estimates your exact gigabyte needs.
- Quick 90 second setup with simple step by step guides.
- Earns aloCASH reward points on purchases for future trips.
Pros:
- Gives you a working phone number for real calls and texts.
- Clear setup instructions written for non technical users.
- Unrestricted mobile hotspot sharing on every data plan.
Cons:
- Using the phone number requires installing the Hushed app.
- Fewer large 50 GB bundles than Nomad or Airalo.
- Medium Europe packs cost slightly more than budget rivals.
Why Choose:
- You need to call hotels, tour guides, or local numbers abroad.
- You want an easy calculator tool to pick the right data size.
Best For:
- Travelers needing both mobile data and a working phone number.
- Beginners wanting simple guides and 24 hour live support.
8. GigSky
- Website: http://gigsky.com/
GigSky is a veteran mobile network operator that offers travel eSIM plans across more than 200 countries, over 290 cruise ships, and select commercial airplanes. Most normal eSIMs stop working the moment your ship leaves port, but GigSky keeps you connected at sea and on land with one combined plan. In addition, GigSky offers a free 100 megabyte starter plan with no credit card required, plus special free data benefits for eligible Visa cardholders.
Key Features:
- Cruise + Land plans work across 290+ major ocean cruise ships.
- Inflight mobile data plans work on supported airlines.
- Free 100 MB trial plan in 125 destinations without a card.
- Eligible Visa cardholders get free complimentary data plans.
Pros:
- Much cheaper than buying cruise line satellite WiFi packages.
- Switches automatically between ship networks and port towers.
- Free 100 MB trial lets you test service before paying.
Cons:
- Cruise and plane data costs more per gigabyte than land plans.
- Sea internet speeds are slower than city 5G networks.
- Land only bundles cost more than Saily or Nomad.
Why Choose:
- You are taking a cruise and need sea and port coverage.
- You have an eligible Visa card that unlocks free travel data.
Best For:
- Cruise travelers sailing the Caribbean, Europe, or Alaska.
- Visa cardholders and flyers wanting land, sea, and air data.
9. Maya Mobile
- Website: http://maya.net/
Maya Mobile is a reliable US based travel eSIM provider offering fast 4G and 5G internet in more than 165 countries. It is a top pick for digital nomads and remote workers because its fixed and unlimited data plans allow open WiFi hotspot sharing for laptops and tablets. You can schedule your plan to activate on your exact travel date, and every purchase is protected by a generous 180 day money back guarantee.
Key Features:
- Full WiFi hotspot support for laptops on fixed and unlimited plans.
- Delayed activation lets you pick your exact future start date.
- Protected by an industry leading 180 day refund guarantee.
- Optional monthly auto renewal for trips lasting up to 180 days.
Pros:
- Great hotspot sharing for remote workers using laptops abroad.
- 180 day money back policy gives full buying confidence.
- Fast 24 hour human support over live chat and email.
Cons:
- Covers 165+ countries, which is fewer than 200+ rivals.
- Manages plans mostly through its web portal instead of an app.
- Data only service with no voice calls or SMS texts.
Why Choose:
- You work remotely on a laptop and need daily hotspot sharing.
- You book early and want a 180 day refund safety policy.
Best For:
- Digital nomads tethering laptops from hotels and cafes.
- Long stay travelers spending several months abroad.
10. Roamless
- Website: http://roamless.com/
Roamless is a flexible travel eSIM service that uses a single global wallet across more than 200 destinations worldwide, making it a convenient option for eSIMs for international travel. Unlike normal data bundles that expire after 7 or 30 days, Roamless pay-as-you-go wallet credits never expire. You install one global eSIM once, add money to your balance, and pay only for the exact megabytes you use in each country. You can also buy fixed plans or make affordable international voice calls.
Key Features:
- Pay as you go wallet balance has no expiration date.
- Single global eSIM works across 200+ countries automatically.
- Built in app voice calling starts at pennies per minute.
- Free trial data given to new users to test connectivity.
Pros:
- Zero wasted money because unused balance stays valid forever.
- Cross country borders without buying new country packages.
- Make cheap international phone calls right inside the app.
Cons:
- Pay as you go rates in remote nations cost more than bundles.
- Streaming high definition video can drain wallet funds fast.
- Incoming phone number feature costs an extra monthly fee.
Why Choose:
- You hate losing leftover gigabytes when 30 day plans expire.
- You take short trips or layovers across several countries.
Best For:
- Flight crews, business flyers, and multi border travelers.
- Light data users wanting a permanent backup travel eSIM.
How to Choose the Right Travel eSIM for Your Trip
Picking the right digital SIM card before your flight saves you money and prevents weak signal problems abroad. Every traveler uses their phone in a different way, so a package that works for a weekend tourist may not work for a remote worker. Before you pay for any plan, you need to look at where you are going, how long you will stay, and which apps you open every day. Checking these simple travel details helps you match your trip with the best mobile data provider.
- Single country vs regional plans: Buy a single country plan for one destination, or pick a regional pack if you are visiting several neighbors on one trip.
- Fixed data vs unlimited data: Choose fixed gigabytes for light map and message use, or pick unlimited data if you watch videos every day.
- Hotspot sharing rules: Check if the provider allows free WiFi hotspot sharing when you need to connect a laptop or a second phone.
- Voice call needs: Decide if data apps like WhatsApp are enough, or if you need a real phone number for local voice calls.
Step by Step Guide to Installing and Activating Your Travel eSIM
Setting up a digital SIM card on your phone takes less than five minutes when you follow the right steps. You do not need any tiny metal tools or plastic cards because everything downloads straight to your phone through the internet. It is always smart to buy and install your plan at home on the day before your flight so you can use strong home WiFi. Once the profile is saved on your phone, you simply switch it on when your airplane lands at your destination.
- Check phone unlock status: Open your phone settings before buying to make sure your device is unlocked and supports digital SIM cards.
- Install on home WiFi: Use the provider app for one click install or scan the QR code while connected to stable home internet.
- Label your new line: Name your new line as Travel Data inside your phone settings so you do not mix up your two numbers.
- Switch lines upon landing: Turn off data roaming on your home SIM and turn on data roaming for your travel eSIM when you arrive.
Simple Tips to Save Mobile Data While Traveling Abroad
Making your mobile data last longer on vacation helps you avoid buying extra top ups before your trip ends. Modern smartphones run many hidden tasks in the background that quietly eat up gigabytes without you noticing. Photo backups, automatic app updates, and high definition video streams can drain a small data package in just a few days. By changing a few simple settings on your phone before you leave home, you can cut wasted data in half and save your gigabytes for important travel tasks.
- Turn on Low Data Mode: Enable Low Data Mode on iPhone or Data Saver on Android to stop apps from using internet in the background.
- Download offline maps early: Save your city maps on Google Maps over hotel WiFi so daily street navigation uses almost zero mobile data.
- Pause cloud photo backups: Set iCloud Photos or Google Photos to back up pictures and videos only when connected to WiFi networks.
- Lower video streaming quality: Change video settings on YouTube, Netflix, and social media apps to standard quality instead of high definition.
Conclusion
Picking the best eSIMs for international travel in 2027 comes down to how you use your phone on vacation. If you want a huge selection of plans and a trusted name, Airalo is a great starting point.
If you want unlimited data without counting gigabytes, choose Holafly. Travelers who care about online security will love Saily, while bargain hunters needing big data packs should pick Nomad. For cruises, pick GigSky, and for never expiring wallet funds, go with Roamless. Always install your eSIM at home on WiFi before your flight.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How Do I Know If My Phone Works With An eSIM?
Most iPhones made since 2018 and modern Samsung and Google Pixel phones support eSIM. Your phone must also be carrier unlocked. Dial *#06# on your keypad; if an EID number appears, your phone supports eSIM.
2. When Should I Install My Travel eSIM?
Install your travel eSIM at home a day before your flight while connected to home WiFi. Keep the travel eSIM line turned off until your plane lands so your plan days do not start early.
3. Can I Keep My WhatsApp Number While Using A Travel eSIM?
Yes, your WhatsApp account stays linked to your regular home phone number. You do not need to change any settings. All chats, contacts, and calls work normally over your travel eSIM internet.
4. Will My Home Mobile Carrier Still Charge Me Roaming Fees?
No, as long as you turn off Data Roaming on your primary home SIM line in your phone settings before departure and set your travel eSIM as the default mobile data line.
5. Can I Share My Travel eSIM Internet Using Mobile Hotspot?
Yes, providers like Airalo, Nomad, Saily, Ubigi, Jetpac, aloSIM, Maya Mobile, and Roamless allow full hotspot sharing on fixed plans. Unlimited plans like Holafly cap hotspot sharing at 500 MB to 1 GB daily.
6. How Many Gigabytes Of Data Do I Need For A Two Week Trip?
Most travelers use 5 GB to 10 GB during a two week trip for maps, messages, web browsing, and social media. If you stream daily videos or work remotely, pick 20 GB or unlimited data.
7. Can I Use My Regular SIM Card And A Travel eSIM At The Same Time?
Yes, modern phones support Dual SIM mode. You can keep your home SIM active to receive urgent texts or bank verification codes while using your travel eSIM for cheap mobile internet.