Staying connected while abroad has never been more importantโor easier. Whether you’re hopping between countries, working remotely from a beach town, or settling into life in a new country, mobile data is essential. But swapping out physical SIM cards can be a hassle.
Thatโs where eSIMs come in. But what is an eSIM, exactly? Theyโre digital, flexible, and built for modern travelers. In this guide, youโll learn what an eSIM is, how it works, what makes it so useful, and which eSIM providers are best depending on your travel style. Whether youโre a curious first-timer or a seasoned globetrotter, this guide will help you stay connected wherever you go.
What Is an eSIM?
An eSIM is essentially just a digital version of a traditional SIM card. Instead of popping a tiny plastic card into your phone, an eSIM is embedded in your device and activated with a simple download or QR code. It stores the same information as a physical SIM but lets you switch carriers, plans, or phone numbers without physically changing anything.
Think of it as a digital SIM card that lives inside your phone. You just install it once, and youโre good to go.
eSIM vs Physical SIM
- eSIMs are built into your device, while physical SIMs require a slot.
- No need to swap cards when changing plans or traveling.
- Store multiple eSIM profiles on one device and switch between them easily.
- Smaller risk of damage or loss. No more tiny cards falling behind the hotel nightstand.
If youโve ever tried to get a paperclip into that tiny hole that pops the SIM tray out, youโll appreciate just how great eSIMs are.
How eSIMs Work
eSIMs are designed to make your mobile life easier. Hereโs how they work from setup to switching.
Setting Up An eSIM
Setting up an eSIM is fast and straightforward. Here’s how it usually works:
- Choose a provider โ Buy an eSIM plan online through a providerโs website or app.
- Receive a QR code or activation code โ Most providers will send a QR code by email.
- Activate your eSIM โ Go into your phoneโs settings, scan the QR code, and activate it. Thatโs it!
The process takes just a few minutes. No visits to a mobile store, no paperwork, no SIM trays.
Device Compatibility
Most modern phones, tablets, and even smartwatches support eSIMs. Some popular eSIM-compatible devices include:
- iPhone XR and newer (including SE models)
- Google Pixel 3 and newer
- Samsung Galaxy S20 and newer
- iPads with cellular support (iPad Pro, Air, Mini)
- Some Lenovo and Windows laptops
Go to your deviceโs settings and search for โeSIMโ or โCellular Plansโ to see if itโs supported.
Switching Between Networks & Plans
One of the biggest perks of eSIMs is flexibility. You can:
- Store multiple eSIMs on one device (great if you travel a lot)
- Switch between profiles with a tap in your settings
- Use one plan for data and another for calls
- Turn one line off temporarily without deleting it
This makes it easy to travel, compare local providers, or keep your home number active while using local data abroad. Once you get the hang of how eSIMs work, you’ll wonder how you ever traveled without one.
Best eSIM Providers for Travelers
Travelers need flexibility, convenience, and data that works right out of the gate. eSIMs are perfect because they skip the airport SIM kiosk and let you land connected.
Factors To Consider
Before choosing a provider, think about:
- Where are you going? Make sure the provider covers your destination.
- How long will you stay? Some eSIMs are better for short trips, while others offer longer validity.
- How much data do you need? Light users might only need 1โ3GB, but streamers or remote workers might need 10GB+.
- Do you need a local number? Most eSIMs offer data only โ but some offer airtime/SMSes, too.
Recommended eSIM Providers for Travelers
Let’s look at the top eSIM providers for travelers
Airalo
Airalo is great for travelers on a budget. Offers regional and global eSIMs with low prices and decent speeds. Plus, their app is super easy to use, and they offer you a free eSIM to get started!
Holafly
Holafly offers unlimited data plans in 100+ countries. Perfect for travelers who stream, work remotely, or just donโt want to track their usage.
GigSky
GigSky has really good international coverage and flexible pricing. Great if youโre visiting multiple countries in one trip.
Best eSIM Providers for Digital Nomads
Digital nomads often travel to multiple countries in a single year โ and they need internet that moves with them.
(Psst. If you’re looking for tips on nomad travel, check out our guide to digital nomad visas)
What Nomads Need
Unlike travelers, digital nomads need eSIMs with a bit more “oomph”.
- Longer validity periods (15โ90 days or more)
- Global or regional coverage
- Hotspot support so they can connect their laptop
- Consistent speeds across countries
- Recharge options or subscriptions
Recommended eSIMs for Nomads
Let’s look at the top eSIMs for digital nomads.
Ubigi
Ubigi offers good global packages with hotspot support. They’ve also partnered with major carriers for stable connections.
Flexiroam
Flexiroam is ideal for global travel for digital nomads. Long validity (up to a year), and you can top up from anywhere.
Nomad
Like the name says, Nomad is great for nomads! Offers multi-country regional plans and a smooth user experience.
Best eSIM Providers for Expats
If youโre living abroad long-term, youโll want an affordable, reliable plan that feels like a local one.
Key Features
- Monthly or annual plans
- Good local data speeds
- Voice/SMS support if needed
- Customer service in your preferred language
- Coverage in your neighborhood (not just city centers)
Top Picks for Expats
Let’s look at the top eSIMs for expats.
Sim Local
Sim Local‘s eSIM services are available in over 150 countries through partnerships with local mobile network operators. They have standalone retail stores in major international airports and offer an online platform for eSIM purchases
Saily
Saily offers affordable and flexible eSIM plans with coverage in over 150 countries. Their user-friendly app allows for easy plan management and activation.
BNESIM
BNESIM offers global coverage, customizable data plans and additional services like international phone numbers, catering to the needs of frequent travelers and expatriates.
About the Air Doctor App
With the Air Doctor app in your pocket, you can easily access medical care anywhere else you travel.
Air Doctor offers a wide range of benefits, including:
- A global network of over 20,000 multi-lingual doctors and specialists
- Choice of clinic, at-home (hotel), and video consultations
- Active in 90+ countries
- 24/7 multi-lingual support
- Most common medical specialties, including pediatricians and dentists
If youโre looking for reliable, accessible, and global medical assistance, the Air Doctor app is perfect for you. Download the app before your next trip to ensure peace of mind and access to quality healthcare, wherever your travels take you.
FAQs
Some devices donโt support them. Transferring an eSIM between phones is sometimes trickier than moving a physical SIM.
Yes, if your carrier supports number porting or if youโre using your main carrierโs eSIM. Many eSIM plans for travel are data-only, so you may not get a number unless specified.
Absolutely! Many phones support Dual SIM, letting you keep your home SIM while using a local eSIM for data.
