In an era where staying connected is as essential as packing a passport, eSIM technology has transformed how travelers access mobile data abroad. Gone are the days of scrambling to find a local SIM card at the airport or enduring exorbitant roaming charges. An eSIM, or embedded SIM, is a digital SIM card built into your device, allowing you to activate a cellular plan without the hassle of physical cards. With the ability to store multiple profiles and switch networks seamlessly, eSIMs are a game-changer for international travelers in 2025. Whether you’re a digital nomad, a frequent business traveler, or a vacationer exploring new horizons, choosing the right eSIM provider can make or break your connectivity experience. This article explores the top eSIM options for international travel in 2025, evaluating their coverage, pricing, usability, and unique features to help you stay connected affordably and reliably.
Why Choose an eSIM for International Travel?
Before diving into the top providers, let’s understand why eSIMs are the preferred choice for travelers. Unlike traditional SIM cards, eSIMs are activated digitally via a QR code or app, eliminating the need to swap physical cards or visit a store. This convenience is particularly valuable for frequent travelers who hop between countries, as eSIMs support regional and global plans that work across multiple destinations. They also allow you to keep your home number active for calls and texts while using a separate data plan abroad, ensuring seamless communication. Additionally, eSIMs are eco-friendly, reducing the need for plastic SIM cards, and they’re compatible with most modern smartphones, including iPhones (XS and newer), Google Pixel 4+, and Samsung Galaxy S20+ models.
However, not all eSIMs are created equal. Factors like coverage, data allowances, pricing, ease of use, and additional features (such as VPNs or hotspot capabilities) vary widely. With dozens of providers on the market, selecting the right one depends on your travel itinerary, data needs, and budget. Below, we review the top eSIM providers for 2025, based on their performance, user reviews, and suitability for different types of travelers.
- Saily – Best Overall for Affordability and Features
Overview: Launched in 2024 by Nord Security (the company behind NordVPN), Saily has quickly risen to prominence as a top eSIM provider for international travelers. Its combination of affordability, extensive coverage, and value-added features makes it an excellent all-rounder.
Coverage: Saily offers data plans in over 150 countries, including popular destinations like Europe, the USA, and Japan. Its global plans cover up to 113 countries, making it ideal for multi-country trips. Saily also supports 5G connectivity in select regions, ensuring fast speeds for data-heavy tasks like video streaming or remote work.
Pricing: Saily’s plans are budget-friendly, with 1GB plans starting at $3.99 for short-term trips in countries like Turkey and the UK. Its Saily Ultra plan, designed for frequent travelers, offers unlimited data in 113 countries with a monthly subscription model. Pricing varies by destination, but Saily’s transparency ensures no hidden fees.
Features:
Built-in VPN and Ad Blocker: Saily stands out with its integrated VPN, ad blocker, and web protection, enhancing security on public Wi-Fi networks and bypassing local censorship. This is particularly useful for travelers in countries with restricted internet access.
User-Friendly App: The Saily app’s minimalistic design and intuitive interface make purchasing, installing, and topping up plans a breeze, even for first-time eSIM users.
Automatic Activation: Plans activate automatically upon arrival, simplifying the setup process.
Business Solution: Saily offers a tailored plan for business travelers, ensuring constant connectivity for remote work with one-tap installation.
Pros:
Affordable pricing for short-term and long-term plans.
Comprehensive security features (VPN, ad blocker).
Excellent customer support with 24/7 live chat.
Supports hotspot functionality in most plans.
Cons:
Coverage in less-developed regions can be spotty.
No voice or SMS options in most plans.
Best For: Budget-conscious travelers, digital nomads, and those prioritizing security features.
- Airalo – Best for Extensive Global Coverage
Overview: Airalo is one of the most well-known eSIM providers, offering flexible and affordable plans across over 200 countries. Its user-friendly app and loyalty program make it a favorite among frequent travelers.
Coverage: Airalo’s extensive network spans North America, Europe, Asia, Africa, and beyond, with local, regional, and global plans. For example, a single regional plan can cover 34 European countries, perfect for multi-destination trips.
Pricing: Plans start at $5 for 1GB (valid for 7 days), with larger packages like a 20GB global plan costing $69 for 365 days. Airalo’s Airmoney loyalty program offers 5-10% credits on every purchase, which can offset costs for frequent users.
Features:
Flexible Plans: Choose from local, regional, or global plans, with durations ranging from 1 to 365 days.
User-Friendly App: The Airalo app simplifies purchasing, activation, and data monitoring.
Reliable Customer Support: 24/7 support via live chat and email, with quick response times.
Hotspot Support: Most plans allow tethering, ideal for sharing data with devices or companions.
Pros:
Extensive coverage in 200+ countries.
Competitive pricing with loyalty rewards.
Easy setup via QR code or app.
Reliable 4G/5G speeds in major destinations.
Cons:
No voice or SMS options in most plans.
Some users report inconsistent performance in remote areas.
Slightly pricier than competitors like Ubigi for certain destinations.
Best For: Travelers visiting multiple countries or those seeking a reliable, widely-used provider.
- Holafly – Best for Unlimited Data Plans
Overview: Holafly is the go-to choice for data-hungry travelers, offering unlimited data plans in over 160 destinations. Its focus on simplicity and reliability makes it ideal for those who stream, work, or share data extensively.
Coverage: Holafly covers Europe, North America, South America, Asia, and more, with unlimited data plans in countries like Mexico, Japan, and China. Its regional plans are perfect for continent-hopping travelers.
Pricing: Plans start at $29 for unlimited data for 5 days in Europe, with longer-term options up to 90 days. While pricier than limited-data plans, the unlimited model eliminates the need for top-ups.
Features:
Unlimited Data: Ideal for heavy users who stream videos or work remotely.
VoIP Support: Keep your existing number for calls via WhatsApp or other apps.
Flexible Refund Policy: Full refunds are available within 6 months if the eSIM is incompatible or unused.
24/7 Support: Responsive customer service via chat and email.
Pros:
Unlimited data eliminates usage worries.
Wide coverage in 160+ destinations.
Easy setup with QR code or app.
Strong customer support and refund policy.
Cons:
Higher cost compared to limited-data plans.
Hotspot functionality not available in many plans.
No standard voice or SMS options.
Best For: Heavy data users, remote workers, and those prioritizing unlimited connectivity.
- Ubigi – Best for Flexible Plans and Hotspot Support
Overview: Owned by NTT Docomo, Ubigi offers a robust eSIM service with plans ranging from 500MB to unlimited, covering 200+ destinations. Its flexibility and hotspot support make it a top choice for digital nomads.
Coverage: Ubigi supports single-country, regional, and global plans, with 5G available in 40 countries. Its plans are ideal for travelers who need consistent connectivity across multiple devices.
Pricing: Plans start at $2.90 for 500MB (1-day validity), with unlimited and annual options available. A 3GB plan for the USA costs $2.99, making it one of the best-value options.
Features:
Hotspot Support: Unlimited tethering in most plans, perfect for sharing data.
Flexible Durations: Plans range from 1 day to 365 days, with monthly renewals.
Automatic Activation: Plans activate upon arrival, with biometric login for secure access.
Discounts: Students can get up to 20% off, and first-time users can use code FN10 for 10% off.
Pros:
Affordable and flexible plans.
Excellent hotspot support for multi-device use.
5G connectivity in select regions.
User-friendly app with biometric login.
Cons:
No voice or SMS in most plans.
Customer support lacks live chat in some cases.
Best For: Digital nomads and travelers needing hotspot functionality.
- Roamless – Best for Pay-As-You-Go Flexibility
Overview: Roamless offers a unique pay-as-you-go model, where data never expires, making it ideal for irregular travelers who want to avoid fixed plans.
Coverage: Roamless covers 194 destinations, with global data plans that work seamlessly across countries. It also offers in-app calling for an additional cost.
Pricing: Pay-as-you-go plans start at competitive rates, with a 3GB plan for the USA costing $6.70. Data credits can be used anytime, anywhere, without expiration.
Features:
Non-Expiring Data: Use data across multiple trips without waste.
In-App Calling: Optional calling feature for added convenience.
Simple Setup: One-time installation with top-ups via the app.
Global Plans: Single plan works in 194 countries.
Pros:
Pay-as-you-go model eliminates data waste.
Competitive pricing for global coverage.
Easy top-up process without Wi-Fi.
Cons:
Limited customer support (email only, with up to 24-hour response times).
No unlimited data options.
Best For: Infrequent travelers or those who prefer flexible, non-expiring plans.
- Jetpac – Best for Unique Travel Perks
Overview: Backed by Circles.Life, Jetpac combines eSIM services with travel perks like free lounge access for flight delays. Its coverage is slightly limited but growing.
Coverage: Jetpac covers 100+ countries, with strong networks in the USA, Europe, and Japan via partners like KDDI and Verizon.
Pricing: Plans start at $10, with a 10GB plan for Europe costing $16 for 30 days. Use code FRN10 for 10% off purchases over $10.
Features:
Travel Perks: Free lounge access for flight delays over 2 hours and emergency hotlines.
Reusable eSIM: One-time installation with unlimited top-ups.
High-Speed Data: 4G/5G speeds in major destinations.
User-Friendly App: Easy setup and data management.
Pros:
Unique travel perks like lounge access.
Competitive pricing for regional plans.
Reusable eSIM reduces setup hassle.
Cons:
Limited coverage (100+ countries vs. competitors’ 200+).
Mixed reviews on lounge access reliability.
Best For: Travelers seeking added perks and visiting major destinations.
Choosing the Right eSIM for Your Needs
When selecting an eSIM, consider the following factors:
Destination: Ensure the provider covers your travel destinations. Airalo and Ubigi excel for global coverage, while Saily and Jetpac are better for specific regions like Europe or the USA.
Data Needs: Heavy users should opt for Holafly’s unlimited plans, while light users can save with Saily or Airalo’s smaller packages.
Trip Duration: Short-term travelers benefit from Saily or Nomad’s daily plans, while long-term travelers should consider Ubigi’s annual plans or Roamless’ pay-as-you-go model.
Hotspot Needs: Ubigi and Airalo support tethering, while Holafly often restricts it.
Budget: Saily and Roamless offer the most affordable options, while Holafly’s unlimited plans are pricier but hassle-free.
Additional Features: Saily’s VPN and Jetpac’s lounge access cater to specific needs like security or travel perks.
Tips for Using eSIMs Abroad
Check Device Compatibility: Dial *#06# to confirm your phone supports eSIMs (look for an EID number). Most modern iPhones, Pixels, and Galaxy devices are compatible.
Install Before Travel: Set up your eSIM using Wi-Fi before departure to avoid activation issues.
Monitor Data Usage: Use provider apps to track data and top up if needed.
Use VoIP for Calls: Most eSIMs are data-only, so rely on apps like WhatsApp or Telegram for communication.
Compare Plans: Use sites like eSIMDB.com to compare providers and find the best deal for your destination.
Conclusion
In 2025, eSIMs are the smartest way to stay connected while traveling internationally. Saily leads as the best overall option for its affordability and security features, while Airalo excels in global coverage, Holafly caters to heavy data users, Ubigi offers flexibility, Roamless provides pay-as-you-go convenience, and Jetpac adds unique travel perks. By assessing your destination, data needs, and budget, you can choose the provider that best suits your travel style. With eSIMs, you can skip the hassle of physical SIMs, avoid roaming charges, and enjoy seamless connectivity wherever your journey takes you.
