The best eSIMs I use as a full-time traveller (2025)
Not long ago, staying connected while traveling meant purchasing a physical SIM card in every new country. This often required removing a home SIM card, losing access to a primary phone number, and creating challenges for tasks like online banking or receiving verification texts.
Now, with eSIM technology, it's possible to install a digital SIM directly onto a phone while keeping the original SIM active. This allows for simultaneous access to data, calls, and texts — making international travel more seamless than ever.
Travelers can enjoy internet-based apps anywhere, stay in touch with family via messaging platforms like WhatsApp, navigate unfamiliar places with ease, and even use their phones as mobile hotspots to work remotely or stream entertainment on the go.
However, not all eSIMs offer the same level of coverage, pricing, or reliability. That’s why this guide highlights the best eSIM options for travelers — whether exploring a city, embarking on a cruise, or staying connected mid-flight, there's a solution to stay online around the globe.
Important: Not all phones are compatible with eSIMs. Here’s how to check:
-
Check phone settings:
- iPhone: Go to Settings > Cellular (or Mobile Data) > Add eSIM
- Android: Go to Settings > Connections > SIM Manager and look for Add eSIM - Look up your phone model: Search “[Your Phone Model] eSIM support” or visit the manufacturer’s website.
- Check with your mobile carrier: Some carriers offer tools to confirm if your device supports eSIM functionality.
My top picks:
Saily (Best Overall)
Coverage: 190+ countries
Data: 1GB to unlimited, based on destination
eSIM: One eSIM for all plans, option for more
Pros: Fast internet, built-in VPN, ad blocker, and web security.
Saily is my go-to for reliable, high-speed internet on most trips. Created by the NordVPN team, it offers affordable plans from 1GB to unlimited. Its VPN, ad blocker, and web protection ensure secure browsing and access to restricted content, ideal for streaming or remote work.
Get Saily. Use code TRYSAILY5 for 5% off.
Roamless (Best Pay-As-You-Go)
Coverage: 195 destinations
Data: Pay-as-you-go with unlimited hotspot; 30-day plans available
eSIM: Single global eSIM
Pros: Flexible pay-as-you-go and app-based international calls.
Roamless uses a pay-as-you-go model with a global eSIM for 195 destinations. Top up as needed without switching eSIMs, though heavy users may find it pricier. Data never expires, and top-ups are easy via the app. International calls are available at fair rates.
Get Roamless. Use code HELLO20 for 20% off.
GigSky (Best Global Coverage)
Coverage: 200+ countries, 200+ cruise ships, select airlines
Data: 100MB free trial; 500MB to unlimited plans
eSIM: One eSIM for all plans
Pros: Wide coverage, including Cuba, and free trial data.
GigSky connects you in 200+ countries, plus cruise ships and airlines, with unique coverage in Cuba. Plans range from 500MB to unlimited, with 5G/LTE speeds. Unlimited plans slow after 2.5GB daily but stay functional. Try it with a 100MB free trial.
Maya Mobile (Best for Affordability)
Coverage: 200+ countries
Data: 1GB to unlimited, varies by destination
eSIM: New eSIM per plan or destination
Pros: Low-cost plans with up to 180-day validity.
Maya Mobile offers budget-friendly plans with up to 180-day validity, great for long trips with moderate data use. Plans range from 1GB to 40GB, with unlimited options. Their global eSIM covers 119 countries with auto-renewal, ensuring reliable 5G access.
Yesim (Best for Privacy & Global Travel)
Coverage: 200+ destinations
Data: 1GB to unlimited plans
eSIM: New eSIM per plan or destination
Pros: Affordable rates, flexible durations, and multi-device support.
Yesim keeps you connected in 200+ countries with competitive data plans. Choose from 1GB to unlimited data, with options for 7 to 180 days. Enjoy 5G/LTE speeds and easy activation. Perfect for both short trips and extended travel.
Airalo (Best Loyalty Scheme)
Coverage: 200+ countries
Data: 1GB to 20GB
eSIM: New eSIM per plan or destination
Pros: Loyalty rewards and global eSIM plans.
Airalo’s loyalty program offers discounts through points, ideal for frequent travelers. Covering 200+ countries, plans range from 1GB to 20GB for 7 to 30 days, with global eSIMs up to 365 days. Speeds are solid, though initial connections can be tricky.
| Provider | Coverage | Avg. price per 10GB | Plan type | Throttling |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Saily | 190+ countries | $20 (30 days) | Local, regional, & global plans | Only on unlimited plans after 1GB per day |
| Roamless | 194 destinations | $24.50 (no expiry) | Global pay-as-you-go | None |
| GigSky | 200+ countries, plus airlines & cruises | $20.79 (30 days) | Local, regional, cruises, & airlines | Only on unlimited plans after 2.5GB per day |
| Maya Mobile | 200+ countries | $16.19 (up to 180 days) | Long-term local, regional, & global plans | None |
| Yesim | 200+ destinations | $39.90 (monthly subscription) | Unlimited local, regional, & global plans | Throttling depends on the data provider |
| Airalo | 200+ countries | $26 (30 days) | Local, regional, & global plans | Only on some unlimited plans |
| Please note that some eSIM brands advertise the number of destinations they cover rather than countries. So they may offer all the European countries and Europe as a destination. Which makes it sound like they have a larger offering than others. | ||||