Last Updated on January 28, 2024 by Rodrigo @ OutofYourComfortZone

Exploring new destinations is amazing, but who likes wasting time in queues to purchase a local SIM card? Fortunately, there is a modern solution that will revolutionize your travels: eSIMs. Let’s delve deeper into this digital universe and understand why having an eSIM can be the difference you need to make the most of your journeys.

Imagine a cell phone chip (the SIM card), now remove the physical part. This is an eSIM. It is a digital version, already incorporated into your device, making traditional chips a thing of the past. It’s like having an invisible but very useful SIM card inside your cell phone.

At the end of this article, we have prepared a detailed list comparing the best and most affordable eSIM options available on the market. Compare and discover which is the perfect choice for your trips! 🌐✨  

 

What is eSIM?

eSIM, or “embedded SIM card”, is a technology that eliminates the use of a traditional physical SIM card in devices such as smartphones and smartwatches. Instead of physically changing the SIM card, users can activate their carrier plan directly in the device’s settings, making the process simpler.

This innovation brings flexibility, allowing you to change between operators without having to change your card. It is an especially useful facility for those who travel a lot, enabling the use of local operators in different regions.

Furthermore, eSIM is widely used in IoT devices, connecting machines to the network without the need for a physical SIM card, facilitating integration into compact and waterproof devices. This is yet another evolution that simplifies our connected lives! ✨📲 

 

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

If your phone was manufactured after 2018, there’s a good chance it’s eSIM compatible!

If you have an iPhone, go to Settings > General > About and check for the “No SIM Restrictions” option.

If you have an Android phone model, go to Settings > Network & Internet > eSIM.

If everything goes well, you can use an eSIM with ease!

The iPhones XS, XS Max, and XR are among the first eSIM-compatible iPhones released in 2018.

These are the most recent models that support 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 is best to check with the manufacturer whether your device is eSIM compatible. This also depends on the model, manufacturing location and carrier used on the Android device.

Another way to check is to go to Settings > Network & Internet and tap “eSIM Cards”. If you see the option “Download a SIM instead?”, your device is eSIM compatible.

You can also check if your phone has an EID (Embedded Identity Document Number), which is the serial number corresponding to the eSIM embedded in your device.

Dial *#06# and press call. If your device supports eSIM, you can view the EID number.

Some popular 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. Easy 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 think. After choosing your preferred carrier, access your device settings, find the eSIM option, and follow the carrier’s instructions to set up the connection. No need to swap physical cards!

 

2. Future Updates:

Be prepared for the future of connectivity. Without the space constraints of physical cards, your phone can be thinner or have a larger battery. Say goodbye to wasted space! eSIMs have the potential to support new technologies and services, keeping you updated on the latest trends and innovations in the world of communication.

 

3. Sustainability in Action:

Contribute to a greener planet. With eSIMs, there’s no need to mass-produce plastic cards that are discarded after short-term use, contributing to environmental conservation!

 

4. 5G Connectivity Everywhere:

eSIMs have the potential to transform the connectivity world, enabling even glasses or fitness devices to connect to 5G network technology.

 

5. Savings:

In addition to convenience, eSIMs also represent financial savings. Avoid international roaming fees and have the ability to choose more affordable plans that fit your travel budget. A smart alternative for those seeking efficiency and savings.

 

6. Compatibility with Smart Devices:

Don’t limit yourself to smartphones. eSIMs are compatible with a variety of smart devices, from watches like the Apple Watch to tablets and more! Expand your connectivity beyond your phone.

 

7. Online Points of Sale:

Skip the lines and inflated prices at airport stores worldwide! By acquiring your eSIM online, you can make the process much simpler and convenient. Moreover, some countries don’t sell SIM cards to foreigners (must be a citizen or resident), making life even more complicated for tourists. So having an eSIM ensures internet connection wherever you go!

 

Why Use eSIMs Instead of a Physical SIM?

 

• Switch Carriers with Ease:

Especially if you travel frequently or embark on a long journey across multiple countries, being able to change carriers without physically swapping the chip is a super pro! With eSIMs, this becomes a convenient reality.

 

• Safety First:

Lost your phone? Don’t worry about losing your chip and number. eSIMs, being integrated into the device, offer an additional layer of security. They are hardly lost or removed without authorization, providing peace of mind, especially in situations of loss or theft.

 

• Activate When Needed, Without Expensive Roaming:

You can store up to eight eSIMs on your phone and activate them as needed, without paying exorbitant roaming fees. Perfect for frequent travelers!

 

• Potential Drawbacks:

Let’s be transparent about potential drawbacks. Some devices may have compatibility limitations, and certain carriers may not offer full support. So, also inquire about the limitations of the carrier you choose to make informed decisions.

 

The 7 Best and Most Affordable eSIM Options for Mobile Phones Abroad

Choose from a variety of plan options, from daily packages to larger data plans. This way, you control your expenses and the amount of data you truly need! Additionally, here you can compare the pros and cons of each company and choose which one works best for you! 

 

   1. Airalo 
As one of the pioneering operators in the eSIM scene, Airalo is known for offering a reliable experience and competitive prices. Especially suitable for traveling around Europe, Airalo has established itself as a solid choice for those looking for global connectivity without the hassle 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

Having been active in the market since 2015, Maya Mobile stands out as a global option, based in the USA. In addition to competitive pricing, its clean web interface and APPLE Pay support make it an attractive choice.

With unlimited plans and features such as auto recharge and activation scheduling, Maya Mobile is a recommended option for travelers looking for practicality 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 online store that offers data plans in 169 countries using eSIM. With this operator, it is possible to purchase local or regional eSIMs. You can also find a wide variety of short-term plans.

Founded in 2022, AloSIM has quickly become one of the most popular eSIM providers thanks to its affordable 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

Featuring a simplified solution, Breeze eSIM offers high-quality mobile connectivity in over 150 countries. This way you can top up as needed and maintain full control over your expenses, avoiding unpleasant surprises on your account when you return.

With packages starting from 7 days and 1GB of data, the Breeze eSIM provides instant convenience for your connectivity demands during your adventures around the world.

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 eSIMs for individuals, Nomad stands out for introducing a solution for employees during their international business trips.

With Nomad, you can instantly distribute eSIMs among employees, manage data usage in real-time, and simplify coordination by easily downloading invoices to 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 promises to provide peace of mind and global connectivity by allowing travelers to purchase data plans for any destination directly from their home countries.

The company has 24/7 global assistance and simplicity in activating the eSIM and defends its commitment to the Environment.

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 that offers global connectivity in over 190 countries. Functioning as an online store for eSIMs, Airhub promises to simplify the connection experience while traveling.

With a variety of local, regional and global plans, Airhub stands out for its flexibility, competitive pricing and reliable performance. The company also has responsive customer service through live chat, making Airhub an attractive option for travelers looking for accessibility 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 depending on the company, with very different package sizes and prices, you need to check the options to decide which best fits your travel needs. Also see every detail of the contracted plan to make sure it is right for you.

To help you with your selection, below are two comparative tables with the prices of the main eSIM packages for some of the most visited countries and by regions if your trip includes several 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 want to purchase a specific eSIM plan that covers the entire continent, the companies mentioned also have options. In the table below, we have selected some so you can 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

Traveling with eSIMs is like having a digital passport to global connectivity! If you have any questions, leave them in the comments below and we will get back to you as quickly as possible!

Goodbye, endless queues to buy local chips, hello, freedom and practicality. Now, you’re ready to explore the world without worrying about telecommunications bureaucracy.

 

Planning your next trip?

Already reserved your hotel or hostel? If not, we recommend Booking.com. They have a huge selection of hotels and hostels all over the world. Plus, in most cases, you can cancel your reservation without any costs up to a few days before the check-in date! 

 

Still haven’t booked your plane ticket and want to save big? Take a look at Momondo. It’s a flight aggregator that combines several other ticket search websites to make it easier for you to compare prices and make sure you are getting the best deal. 

 

And finally, will you need to rent a car during your trip? Then check out Rentalcar.com to search and compare car rental companies from all over the world in a single website. Then, you can find the cheapest price for the best car!

 

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.