Last Updated on April 24, 2024 by Lohanna Reis

Exploring novel destinations is incredible, but who relishes spending time in queues to obtain a local SIM card? Fortunately, there exists a cutting-edge solution that will revolutionize your travels: eSIMs. Let’s delve further into this digital domain and understand why possessing an eSIM can be the distinguishing factor to optimize your journeys.

Envision a mobile phone chip (the SIM card), now eliminate the tangible component. Enter the eSIM—a digital rendition seamlessly integrated into your device, rendering traditional chips obsolete. It’s akin to having an imperceptible yet highly functional SIM card embedded in your cellphone.

As we approach the end of this piece, we’ve assembled a comprehensive list comparing the top and most budget-friendly eSIM alternatives in the market. Contrast and discover which option aligns perfectly with your travel requirements! 🌐✨  

What is eSIM?

eSIM, also known as an “integrated SIM card,” is a technology that eliminates the requirement for a conventional physical SIM card in gadgets such as smartphones and smartwatches. Instead of physically swapping the SIM card, users can activate their carrier plan directly within the device’s settings, streamlining the process.

This innovation brings about flexibility, enabling you to switch between operators without the need to change your card physically. It proves to be a particularly beneficial feature for frequent travelers, facilitating the use of local operators in various regions.

Furthermore, eSIM finds widespread application in IoT devices, connecting machines to the network without the need for a physical SIM card, simplifying integration into compact and water-resistant devices. This represents yet another advancement that simplifies our interconnected lives! ✨📲 

 

Is it possible to buy a SIM card in Europe as a tourist?

Yes, it is possible to buy a cell phone chip in Europe as a tourist. Each country has its own mobile phone operators, and chip availability may vary. However, in general, it is easy to find prepaid chips on several operators.

Some of the major countries in Europe and their mobile phone operators include:

   1. France:
-Orange
– SFR
– Bouygues Telecom

   2. Spain:
– Movistar
– Vodafone
-Orange

   3. Italy:
– TIM
– Vodafone
– Wind Tre

   4. Germany:
– Deutsche Telekom (T-Mobile)
– Vodafone
– O2

   5. United Kingdom:
– AND IS
– Vodafone
– O2
-Three

When arriving in a European country, you may find operator kiosks, electronics stores, or even supermarkets that sell prepaid chips. Make sure you have an unlocked phone so you can use any SIM card from any carrier.

Prepaid SIM cards typically include an initial amount of credit for calls, texts and data. Remember to check the available plan options to choose the one that best meets your needs during your stay in Europe.

Keep in mind that the quality of coverage may vary depending on where you are in Europe, so consider this. Also, check if your phone is compatible with the networks used by operators in Europe,

When considering purchasing a local SIM card in Europe as a tourist, it is crucial to be aware of some possible limitations. Firstly, your phone’s compatibility with local chips may vary, so you need to check whether your device is compatible with European carrier networks, as standards may vary in different regions of the world.

Furthermore, it is important to note that the costs associated with telephone plans in Europe can be relatively high, and some countries may have restrictions on the sale of SIM cards to tourists.

Therefore, the best alternative is still to use eSIM. You can easily connect to local operators without the need to purchase a physical chip, with greater flexibility, avoiding concerns about device compatibility.

 

How do you know if your cell phone is compatible with eSIM?

If your smartphone was produced post-2018, there’s a high likelihood that it supports eSIM!

For iPhone users, navigate to Settings > General > About and verify the presence of the “No SIM Restrictions” option.

For users with Android phones, access Settings > Network & Internet > eSIM.

If all checks out, you can seamlessly employ an eSIM!

The iPhones XS, XS Max, and XR stand as pioneers among the eSIM-compatible iPhones, launched in 2018.

Here are the latest models currently supporting eSIM:

– iPhone 12
– iPhone 12 Pro
– iPhone 12 Mini
– iPhone 12 Pro Max
– iPhone 13
– iPhone 13 Pro
– iPhone 13 Mini
– iPhone 13 Pro Max
– iPhone SE 3 (2022)
– iPhone 14
– 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 generation (2022)
– iPad Mini (model A2124 onwards)

For Android devices, it’s recommended to check with the manufacturer to determine whether your device supports eSIM. This is contingent on factors such as the model, manufacturing origin, and the carrier used on the Android device.

An alternative method to verify is to go to Settings > Network & Internet and choose “eSIM Cards.” If you see the option “Download a SIM instead?” it indicates that your device is eSIM-ready.

You can also ascertain if your phone has an EID (Embedded Identity Document Number), which functions as the serial number associated with the eSIM integrated into your device.

Dial *#06# and press the call button. If your device is compatible with eSIM, you’ll be able to see the EID number.

Several renowned 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 is not a complete list, it is just an indicative list of the most popular smartphones that support eSIMs. If you don’t see your phone’s year listed, check with your phone’s manufacturer.

 

7 Benefits That Make eSIMs Essential for Travel

 

   1. Streamlined Installation:

Say goodbye to the hassle of searching for local stores. With eSIMs, installation is quick and online, right from the convenience of your own device. Activating an eSIM is easier than you might imagine. After selecting your preferred carrier, access your device settings, find the eSIM option, and follow the carrier’s instructions to establish the connection. No need to switch physical cards!

 

   2. Future-Focused Updates:

Stay ahead in the era of connectivity. Liberated from the spatial constraints of physical cards, your phone can be sleeker or feature a larger battery. Bid farewell to unused space! eSIMs have the potential to embrace new technologies and services, keeping you informed about the latest trends and innovations in the communication realm.

 

   3. Sustainable Practices in Action:

Contribute to a more environmentally friendly planet. With eSIMs, there’s no need to mass-produce plastic cards that end up being discarded after short-term usage, promoting environmental conservation!

 

   4. Universal 5G Connectivity:

eSIMs have the potential to revolutionize the connectivity landscape, enabling even glasses or fitness devices to tap into 5G network technology.

   

   5. Financial Savings:

Beyond mere convenience, eSIMs also result in cost savings. Avoid international roaming charges and gain the flexibility to choose more economical plans that align with your travel budget. A savvy choice for those prioritizing efficiency and savings.

 

   6. Compatibility with Intelligent Devices:

Don’t confine yourself to smartphones alone. eSIMs seamlessly integrate with a variety of smart devices, ranging from watches like the Apple Watch to tablets and beyond! Expand your connectivity beyond the limits of your phone.

 

   7. Virtual Points of Purchase:

Steer clear of queues and inflated prices at airport stores worldwide! By obtaining your eSIM online, you can simplify and expedite the process. Additionally, in some countries, SIM cards are not available to non-residents (must be a citizen or resident), further complicating matters for tourists. Hence, having an eSIM ensures internet connectivity wherever your travels take you!

 

 

Why Use eSIMs Instead of a Physical SIM?

 

• Switch Carriers Seamlessly:

Especially if you are a frequent traveler or embarking on an extensive journey across multiple countries, the capability to change carriers without physically swapping the chip is a significant advantage! With eSIMs, this becomes a convenient reality.

 

• Prioritize Security:

Misplaced your phone? No need to worry about losing your chip and number. eSIMs, seamlessly integrated into the device, provide an additional layer of security. They are rarely lost or removed without authorization, offering peace of mind, especially in instances of loss or theft.

 

• Activate as Needed, Avoiding Costly Roaming Charges:

You can store up to eight eSIMs on your phone and activate them as necessary, without incurring exorbitant roaming fees. Ideal for those who travel frequently!

 

• Potential Limitations:

Let’s be transparent about possible drawbacks. Some devices might have compatibility restrictions, and specific carriers may not offer complete support. Therefore, inquire about the limitations of the chosen carrier to make well-informed decisions.

 

The 7 Best and Cheaper eSIM Options for Mobile Phones Abroad

Choose from a variety of plan alternatives, ranging from daily packages to more extensive data plans. This empowers you to manage your expenditures and the amount of data that genuinely suits your requirements! Moreover, here you have the opportunity to evaluate the pros and cons of each company, allowing you to determine the one that aligns most effectively with your needs! 

 

   1. Airalo 

As a pioneering player in the eSIM landscape, Airalo is well-known for delivering a reliable experience and competitive pricing. Especially tailored for European travel, Airalo has established itself as a dependable choice for individuals in search of global connectivity without the intricacies associated with physical SIM cards.

Get US$3 off your first purchase with the discount coupom code RODRIG1231

Pros:

• Wide coverage in approximately 200 countries;
• Flexible and customizable plans for all users;
• Affordable cost;

 

Cons:

• Most packages do not include voice minutes;
• A little expensive in Africa;

 

 

 

   2. Maya Mobile

Established in the market since 2015, Maya Mobile sets itself apart as a worldwide option, based in the USA. Alongside competitive pricing, its easy-to-use web interface and compatibility with APPLE Pay add to its attractiveness.

Providing unlimited plans and features such as auto-recharge and activation scheduling, Maya Mobile stands out as a preferred option for travelers seeking convenience and flexibility.

Pros:

• It has coverage in more than 100 countries;
• It has prepaid plans and unlimited plans with a fixed monthly price;
• Instant activation;

Cons:

• It does not have coverage in many African and Middle Eastern countries;
• No live customer support;

 

 

   3. AloSIM

AloSIM is an internet-based marketplace offering data plans in 169 countries using eSIM technology. This service enables users to obtain local or regional eSIMs and provides a varied selection of short-term plans.

Founded in 2022, AloSIM has quickly become a popular choice among eSIM providers, recognized for its budget-friendly plans.

Pros:

• Supports data sharing;
• Useful data calculator;
• Reliable and transparent local network service;

Cons:

• No phone plan or SMS;
• There is no plan with an unlimited period;

 

 

 

   4. Breeze

Presenting an efficient solution, Zephyr eSIM delivers high-quality mobile connectivity in more than 150 countries. This enables you to recharge as required and maintain full control over your expenses, avoiding unexpected surprises on your account upon your return.

Commencing with plans starting from 7 days and 1GB of data, Zephyr eSIM provides instant convenience for your connectivity requirements during your global escapades.

Pros:

• Multi-network coverage in many countries, ensuring constant connectivity wherever there is a signal;
• Multilingual support;
• You can reuse the eSIM up to 12 months after the last use;

Cons:

• It is not very popular on the market, lacking reviews;

 

 

   5. Nomad

In addition to serving individual eSIM users, Nomad sets itself apart by offering a solution specifically crafted for employees undertaking international business trips.

With Nomad, you can efficiently distribute eSIMs among your employees, monitor real-time data usage, and enhance coordination by easily downloading invoices for your finance department.

Pros:

• Easy app for beginners;
• The best configuration and installation process;
• No hidden costs;

Cons:

• No live chat support;

 

 

 6. Holafly

Holafly guarantees to provide peace of mind and global connectivity, allowing travelers to purchase data plans for any destination directly from their home countries.

With round-the-clock global assistance and a simple eSIM activation process, the company reaffirms its commitment to environmental responsibility.

Pros:

• Payment can be made in Euros, US dollars or Mexican pesos;
• Most eSIMs offer unlimited data;
• Useful features such as in-app expiration tracking;

Cons:

• Does not support data sharing;
• One of the most expensive options on the market;

 

 

eSIM Bonus Option for You to Compare

 

• Airhub
  

Airhub is an eSIM platform offering worldwide connectivity in over 190 countries. Serving as a virtual marketplace for eSIMs, Airhub commits to simplifying the connectivity experience for travelers on the move.

Featuring a variety of local, regional, and global plans, Airhub stands out for its flexibility, competitive pricing, and reliable performance. The company also prides itself on responsive customer service through live chat, making Airhub an attractive option for travelers in search of convenient solutions to meet their needs.

Pros:

• Clean and easy to use application and website;
• Great speed in most countries;
• Plans include data, voice minutes and SMS;

Cons:

• Payment service fees charged at the time of payment;
• Doesn’t offer many regional plans except for Europe;

 

 

Comparison Table of eSIMs with Data Bundle Prices for Different Regions and Countries

As plans vary among providers, showcasing different package sizes and prices, it’s crucial to examine the options to identify the one that best fits your travel requirements. Moreover, carefully scrutinize every detail of the selected plan to ensure it aligns with your needs.

To assist in your decision-making process, the following are two comparative tables illustrating the costs of the main eSIM packages for some of the frequently visited countries and regions, especially if your journey spans multiple countries.

	Airalo	Maya Mobile	AloSIM	Breeze	Nomad	Holafly	Airhub
USA	1 GB: U$ 4.5 3 GB: U$ 11 10 GB: U$ 13	3 GB: R$ 49 10 GB: R$ 89 unlimited: R$ 99	1 GB: U$ 4.5 5 GB: U$ 16 20 GB: U$ 42	1 GB: U$ 6 5 GB: U$ 19 20 GB: U$ 49	1 GB: U$ 7 10 GB: U$ 24 20 GB: U$ 32	5 Days: U$ 19 30 Days: U$ 64 90 Days: U$ 99	20 GB: U$ 38 25 GB: U$ 42 unlimited: U$ 45
Canada	1 GB: U$ 6 3 GB: U$ 15 10 GB: U$ 18	1 GB: R$ 39 5 GB: R$ 119 unlimited: R$ 149	1 GB: U$ 6 5 GB: U$ 18 10 GB: U$ 35	1 GB: U$ 7 5 GB: U$ 31 20 GB: U$ 79	1 GB: U$ 7 5 GB: U$ 18 10 GB: U$ 32	5 Days: U$ 27 10 Days: U$ 37 20 Days: U$ 54	20 GB: U$ 38 25 GB: U$ 42 unlimited: U$ 41
Austrália	1 GB: U$ 4.5 3 GB: U$ 9 10 GB: U$ 20	3 GB: R$ 49 10 GB: R$ 99 unlimited: R$ 99	1 GB: U$ 4.5 5 GB: U$ 13.5 20 GB: U$ 40	1 GB: U$ 5 5 GB: U$ 19 20 GB: U$ 49	1 GB: U$ 6 20 GB: U$ 30 50 GB: U$ 125	5 Days: U$ 19 10 Days: U$ 34 20 Days: U$ 54	20 GB: U$ 38 25 GB: U$ 42 unlimited: U$ 65
França	1 GB: U$ 4.5 3 GB: U$ 10 10 GB: U$ 23	3 GB: R$ 39 10 GB: R$ 59 unlimited: R$ 99	1 GB: U$ 4.5 5 GB: U$ 14 20 GB: U$ 36	1 GB: U$ 5 5 GB: U$ 19 20 GB: U$ 43	1 GB: U$ 6 10 GB: U$ 19 20 GB: U$ 33	5 Days: U$ 19 30 Days: U$ 64 90 Days: U$ 99	14 GB: U$ 19.5 25 GB: U$ 42 unlimited: U$ 30
South Africa	1 GB: U$ 4.5 3 GB: U$ 11 10 GB: U$ 26	3 GB: R$ 59 10 GB: R$ 119 unlimited: R$ 149	1 GB: U$ 4.5 5 GB: U$ 15.5 20 GB: U$ 48	1 GB: U$ 11 5 GB: U$ 43 20 GB: U$ 121	1 GB: U$ 11 5 GB: U$ 28 10 GB: U$ 45	5 Days: U$ 29 10 Days: U$ 44 30 Days: U$ 79	5 GB: U$ 33 10 GB: U$ 66 25 GB: U$ 42
Egypt	1 GB: U$ 7 3 GB: U$ 17.5 5 GB: U$ 26.5	1 GB: R$ 69 5 GB: R$ 249 10 GB: R$ 359	1 GB: U$ 7 3 GB: U$ 17.5 5 GB: U$ 26.5	1 GB: U$ 11 5 GB: U$ 43 20 GB: U$ 121	1 GB: U$ 9 5 GB: U$ 34 10 GB: U$ 65	5 Days: U$ 27 10 Days: U$ 37 20 Days: U$ 54	3 GB: U$ 14.5 10 GB: U$ 38.5 20 GB: U$ 73.5
Italy	1 GB: U$ 4.5 3 GB: U$ 10 10 GB: U$ 24	3 GB: R$ 39 10 GB: R$ 59 unlimited: R$ 99	1 GB: U$ 4.5 5 GB: U$ 14.5 20 GB: U$ 33	1 GB: U$ 5 5 GB: U$ 19 20 GB: U$ 43	1 GB: U$ 6 10 GB: U$ 19 20 GB: U$ 33	5 Days: U$ 19 30 Days: U$ 64 90 Days: U$ 99	15 GB: U$ 17 30 GB: U$ 38.5 50 GB: U$ 49.99
Spain	1 GB: U$ 4.5 3 GB: U$ 8.5 10 GB: U$ 18	3 GB: R$ 39 10 GB: R$ 59 unlimited: R$ 99	1 GB: U$ 4.5 5 GB: U$ 11.5 20 GB: U$ 26	1 GB: U$ 5 5 GB: U$ 19 20 GB: U$ 43	1 GB: U$ 6 10 GB: U$ 19 20 GB: U$ 33	5 Days: U$ 19 30 Days: U$ 64 90 Days: U$ 99	15 GB: U$ 17 20 GB: U$ 25 50 GB: U$ 49.99
Japan	1 GB: U$ 4.5 3 GB: U$ 8.5 10 GB: U$ 18	3 GB: R$ 79 10 GB: R$ 179 unlimited: R$ 149	1 GB: U$ 4.5 5 GB: U$ 13.5 20 GB: U$ 32.5	1 GB: U$ 9 5 GB: U$ 37 20 GB: U$ 91	1 GB: U$ 6 20 GB: U$ 34 50 GB: U$ 125	5 Days: U$ 19 30 Days: U$ 64 90 Days: U$ 99	3 GB: U$ 8 20 GB: U$ 32 50 GB: U$ 72
South Korea	10 Days: U$ 32 30 Days: U$ 62	3 GB: R$ 49 10 GB: R$ 99 unlimited: R$ 149	1 GB: U$ 5 3 GB: U$ 15 10 GB: U$ 27	1 GB: U$ 5 5 GB: U$ 25 20 GB: U$ 67	1 GB: U$ 6 10 GB: U$ 20 20 GB: U$ 30	5 Days: U$ 19 10 Days: U$ 34 20 Days: U$ 54	3 GB: U$ 9 5 GB: U$ 13 10 GB: U$ 18

 

Now, if your goal is to obtain a dedicated eSIM plan offering coverage for an entire continent, the mentioned companies also provide suitable options. In the table below, we have compiled a selection for you to compare.

 

	Europe	South America	Africa	Asia
Airalo	1 GB: U$ 5 5 GB: U$ 20 50 GB: U$ 100	1 GB: U$ 15 3 GB: U$ 39 5 GB: U$ 60	1 GB: U$ 27 3 GB: U$ 59	1 GB: U$ 5 5 GB: U$ 20 50 GB: U$ 100
Maya Mobile	3 GB: R$ 39 10 GB: R$ 89 unlimited: R$ 99	1 GB: R$ 49 5 GB: R$ 139 unlimited: R$ 289	Does not have a specific regional eSIM for Africa	3 GB: R$ 49 10 GB: R$ 89 unlimited: R$ 179
AloSIM	1 GB: U$ 5 3 GB: U$ 13 10 GB: U$ 37	1 GB: U$ 20 3 GB: U$ 41 5 GB: U$ 64	Does not have a specific regional eSIM for Africa	1 GB: U$ 5 5 GB: U$ 20 50 GB: U$ 100
Breeze	1 GB: U$ 5 5 GB: U$ 25 20 GB: U$ 49	1 GB: U$ 14 5 GB: U$ 49 10 GB: U$ 85	1 GB: U$ 11 5 GB: U$ 43 20 GB: U$ 121	1 GB: U$ 7 5 GB: U$ 25 20 GB: U$ 61
Nomad	1 GB: U$ 5 10 GB: U$ 22 20 GB: U$ 35	Does not have a specific regional eSIM for South America	1 GB: U$ 11 5 GB: U$ 28 10 GB: U$ 45	1 GB: U$ 8 10 GB: U$ 28 30 GB: U$ 65
Holafly	5 Days: U$ 19 20 Days: U$ 54 90 Days: U$ 99	5 Days: U$ 27 20 Days: U$ 64 90 Days: U$ 214	Does not have a specific regional eSIM for Africa	5 Days: U$ 27 10 Days: U$ 37 30 Days: U$ 79
Airhub	15 GB: U$ 17 20 GB: U$ 30 50 GB: U$ 49.99	200 GB: U$ 70 750 GB: U$ 90 unlimited: U$ 149	3 GB: U$ 25	5 GB: U$ 15 10 GB: U$ 18 1 GB/day: U$ 17.50

These values are valid for 01/8/2024 and may change without prior notice. Check directly with eSIM companies to see the most up-to-date values.

With these tables, you’ll be ready to explore the world of eSIMs and make the most of your next adventure! 🌍✈️

 

Conclusion

Embarking on journeys with eSIMs is like having a digital passport for global connectivity! If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to leave them in the comments below, and we’ll respond promptly!

Say goodbye to the endless queues for buying local chips, and welcome to freedom and convenience. Now, you’re ready to explore the world without the worries of telecommunications bureaucracy.

 

Planning your next trip?

Then don’t forget travel insurance! You don’t want to get stuck paying a ton of money and ruining your trip if you get sick or have an accident without travel insurance. Our page with The 3 Best and Cheapest Travel Insurance on the Market can help you choose the right plan and will give you some discount coupons for the biggest insurance companies!

 

 Already reserved your hotel or hostel? If not, our article with The 6 Best and Cheapest Websites to Find & Reserve Accommodation can help you out. You’ll also find some promotions and discount codes.

 

 Still haven’t booked your plane ticket and want to save big? Take a look at our page with 16 Tips to Save on Flights where you’ll also find the 4 best websites to buy your plane tickets. 

 

And finally, will you need to rent a car during your trip? Then surely our page with The 5 Best and Cheapest Websites to Compare and Rent Cars Around the World will help you choose the best rental car and find a good deal.