Last Updated on July 11, 2024 by Talita

Exploring new destinations is fantastic, but who enjoys spending time in lines to acquire a local SIM card? Fortunately, there is a contemporary solution that will transform your travels: eSIMs. Let’s delve deeper into this digital realm and comprehend why having an eSIM can be the differentiator you need to maximize your journeys.

Picture a mobile phone chip (the SIM card), now eliminate the physical component. This is an eSIM. It’s a digital iteration, seamlessly integrated into your device, rendering traditional chips obsolete. It’s akin to possessing an invisible yet highly functional SIM card within your cellphone.

Towards the conclusion of this article, we’ve compiled an exhaustive list comparing the top and most cost-effective eSIM alternatives available in the market. Contrast and unearth which option perfectly suits your travel needs! 🌐✨  

 

What is eSIM?

eSIM, or “built-in SIM card,” is a technology that eradicates the need for a traditional physical SIM card in devices like 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 advancement introduces versatility, enabling you to switch between operators without the necessity of changing your card. It proves to be an especially advantageous feature for frequent travelers, allowing the utilization of local operators in various regions.

Moreover, eSIM finds extensive application in IoT devices, linking machines to the network without requiring a physical SIM card, easing integration into compact and water-resistant devices. This represents yet another progression that simplifies our interconnected lives!✨📲 

 

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

Yes, it is possible to buy a local SIM card in the USA as a tourist. Generally, there are several options available for purchasing SIM cards from local carriers for temporary use during your stay in the United States. Here is some basic information on how it works:

1. Choosing the Carrier: The main operators in the USA are: AT&T, Verizon, T-Mobile, Sprint and Mint, the cheapest operator in the country. Each of them offers different plans and coverage. Before buying a SIM card, it is advisable to research and decide which carrier best meets your coverage and plan needs.

2. Retail Stores: You need to buy carrier SIM cards in person at retail stores, such as carrier stores, electronics stores, supermarkets, and even kiosks located in airports.

3. Required Documentation: Usually, you will need a valid identification document, such as your passport, to buy a local SIM card. Some stores may also ask for a U.S. address, but this varies from carrier to carrier.

4. Plan Selection: Carriers offer a variety of plans, from prepaid to monthly contracts. As a tourist, you may prefer a prepaid plan, which typically offers flexibility and does not require a long-term contract.

5. Activation: After purchasing the SIM card and choosing a plan, you will need to activate it. This can usually be done online, over the phone, or in the store where you bought the SIM card.

Remember that the quality of coverage can vary depending on the area you are in the United States, so consider this. Also, check if your phone is compatible with the networks used by carriers in the USA.

When considering the purchase of a local SIM card in the United States as a tourist, it is crucial to be aware of some potential limitations. Firstly, the compatibility of your phone with local SIM cards may vary, requiring verification of whether the device is compatible with American carrier networks, as standards may differ in different regions of the world.

 

 

Additionally, it is important to note that the costs associated with phone plans in the USA can be relatively high, and some countries may have restrictions on selling SIM cards to tourists.

Therefore, the best alternative is still the use of eSIM. You can easily connect to local carriers without the need for a physical SIM card, providing greater flexibility and 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 advisable to verify with the manufacturer whether your device is eSIM-capable. This also hinges on factors such as the model, manufacturing origin, and the carrier utilized on the Android device.

Another method to confirm is to navigate to Settings > Network & Internet and select “eSIM Cards.” If you encounter the option “Download a SIM instead?”, your device is eSIM-ready.

You can also confirm if your phone possesses an EID (Embedded Identity Document Number), which serves as the serial number linked to 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 view the EID number.

Several well-known Android phones supporting 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. Simplified Installation:

Bid farewell to the inconvenience of hunting for local stores. With eSIMs, installation is swift and online, right from the comfort of your own device. Activating an eSIM is simpler than you might think. Once you’ve selected your preferred carrier, access your device settings, locate the eSIM option, and follow the carrier’s instructions to establish the connection. No need to switch physical cards!

 

   2. Forward-Looking Updates:

Stay ahead in the era of connectivity. Freed from the spatial constraints of physical cards, your phone can be slimmer or boast a larger battery. Say goodbye to unutilized space! eSIMs harbor the potential to embrace new technologies and services, keeping you abreast of the latest trends and innovations in the realm of communication.

 

   3. Sustainable Practices in Motion:

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

 

   4. Ubiquitous 5G Connectivity:

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

 

   5. Cost Savings:

Beyond mere convenience, eSIMs also translate into financial savings. Bypass 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 restrict yourself to smartphones alone. eSIMs seamlessly integrate with a variety of smart devices, spanning from watches like the Apple Watch to tablets and beyond! Expand your connectivity beyond the confines of your phone.

 

   7. Virtual Points of Purchase:

Steer clear of queues and inflated prices at airport stores globally! By procuring 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 Effortlessly:

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

 

 

• Prioritize Safety:

Misplaced your phone? No need to fret 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 9 Best and Most Affordable eSIM Options for Mobile Phones Abroad

Select from a range of plan alternatives, spanning from daily packages to more extensive data plans. This empowers you to manage your expenditures and the quantity of data that genuinely suits your requirements! Moreover, here you have the opportunity to assess the advantages and disadvantages of each company, allowing you to determine the one that aligns most effectively with your needs!

 

   1. Airalo 

Being one of the trailblazing operators in the eSIM arena, Airalo is renowned for providing a dependable experience and competitive pricing. Particularly well-suited for European travel, Airalo has solidified its position as a reliable option for individuals seeking global connectivity without the complexities of 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

With a presence in the market since 2015, Maya Mobile distinguishes itself as a global choice, headquartered in the USA. Alongside competitive pricing, its user-friendly web interface and support for APPLE Pay contribute to its appeal.

Offering unlimited plans and features like auto-recharge and activation scheduling, Maya Mobile emerges as a preferred choice 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. Global Yo

Global YO is the perfect choice for anyone looking for a hassle-free travel experience, providing reliable connectivity and a host of additional benefits. With coverage in more than 190 countries, Global YO stands out for its innovative features and competitive prices, ensuring that you are always connected, wherever you are.

Pros:

• Available in more than 190 countries, ensuring access anywhere;
  It has data packages that can be customized;
• Includes AI-generated city guides with celebrity insights, access to 500+ independent films, personalized travel tips, and unlimited rewards.

Cons:

• Most packages do not include voice minutes.
• May be more expensive in some regions.

 

 

   4. AloSIM

AloSIM is an online marketplace providing data plans in 169 countries through eSIM technology. This operator allows users to acquire local or regional eSIMs and offers a diverse array of short-term plans.

Established in 2022, AloSIM has rapidly gained popularity as one of the most sought-after eSIM providers, attributed to its cost-effective 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;

 

 

   5. Breeze

Introducing a streamlined solution, Breeze eSIM provides top-notch mobile connectivity in over 150 countries. This allows you to recharge as necessary and retain complete control over your expenditures, preventing unwelcome surprises on your account upon your return.

With plans beginning from 7 days and 1GB of data, Breeze eSIM offers immediate convenience for your connectivity needs during your global adventures.

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;

 

 

   6. Nomad

Apart from catering to individual eSIM users, Nomad distinguishes itself by presenting a solution designed for employees embarking on international business trips.

Through Nomad, you can promptly distribute eSIMs among your employees, oversee real-time data usage, and streamline coordination by effortlessly 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;

 

 

  7. Holafly

Holafly assures to deliver tranquility and worldwide connectivity, enabling travelers to procure data plans for any destination directly from their home countries.

With 24/7 global assistance and a straightforward eSIM activation process, the company upholds its dedication 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;

 

 

   8. Esimatic

Esimatic is an economical and convenient option for those who want to stay connected when traveling to the United States, avoiding high roaming costs. The company offers a variety of eSIM packages, providing global coverage without the need to swap physical SIM cards.

Pros:

– Coverage in several countries and regions, such as Europe, Asia, the Middle East, Africa, Oceania and the Americas;
– Flexible and affordable plans for different needs;
– Quick and simple activation via QR code;
– 24-hour customer support.

Cons:

– Some packages may be expensive in certain countries;
– Most plans do not include voice minutes.

 

   9. Jetpac

Jetpac is an innovator in the eSIM market, offering global connectivity in the United States without the need for physical SIM cards. With an emphasis on convenience and savings, Jetpac stands out as an excellent choice for frequent travelers looking for a practical and efficient solution to stay connected.

Pros:

– Large global coverage;
– Flexible and customizable plans for different customer profiles;
– Competitive and affordable prices;
– Quick and easy activation via the online application.

Cons:

– Some plans do not include voice minutes;
– It may be more expensive in specific regions such as Africa.

 

Bonus Option

Airhub

Airhub is an eSIM platform providing global connectivity in more than 190 countries. Serving as an online marketplace for eSIMs, Airhub pledges to streamline the connectivity experience while on the go.

With an array of local, regional, and global plans, Airhub distinguishes itself through flexibility, competitive pricing, and dependable performance. The company also boasts responsive customer service via live chat, rendering Airhub an appealing choice for travelers seeking accessible 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 differ across companies, featuring distinct package sizes and prices, it is essential to explore the options to determine which aligns best with your travel requirements. Additionally, scrutinize every detail of the chosen plan to ensure it suits your needs.

To facilitate your decision-making process, presented below are two comparative tables displaying the prices of the primary eSIM packages for some of the most frequently visited countries and by regions if your journey encompasses 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 you aim to acquire a dedicated eSIM plan providing coverage for an entire continent, the mentioned companies also offer suitable options. In the table below, we have curated 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 travels with eSIMs is akin to possessing a digital passport for global connectivity! Should you have any queries, feel free to leave them in the comments below, and we’ll respond promptly!

Farewell to the never-ending queues for purchasing local chips, and greetings to freedom and convenience. Now, you’re all set to explore the world without the concerns 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.