Which is the Best eSIM for International Travel in 2025?

Last updated on December 20th, 2024 at 09:34 am

Do eSims leave you scratching your head and wondering what to do for the best?

I know how you feel. I live in France and my iPhone doesn’t have a dual sim option, and as I go to the UK regularly, I needed an option that wouldn’t see me paying ridiculous roaming fees. So, I started looking for the best eSim for international travel.

Ideally, I wanted one I could buy once and simply top up each time I wanted to use it. My French phone had most of the EU covered but trips to Australia, the US, Canada and the UK, weren’t included

So, after doing a ridiculous amount of research, I found five contenders with good reviews. And I’ve personally tested them all.

What is an eSIM, and How Does It Work?

Before you jump straight into buying an eSim, you need to know what it does and how it works. It’s not complicated if I can understand it, so can you.

Unlike the traditional SIM cards, that you pop into your phone, an eSIM is built right into your device. It’s a small chip that acts just like a SIM card, but without you physically needing to put it into your phone.

The eSIM comes pre-installed in your device and can be activated with cellular plans from a wide range of providers, all without needing a physical SIM card. 

Here’s the best bit, you can switch between plans or carriers without needing to get a new SIM card. 

This is done through a simple software setup, which often involves scanning a QR code provided by the eSIM carrier, making it a breeze to get connected.

This means you can choose the best plan for your needs, wherever you are in the world, without visiting a store or fiddling with tiny SIM cards.

I always struggle to open up the SIM card slot on my phone, so it’s the perfect solution for me.

Best eSIM Providers for Globetrotters

Maya Mobile – The Premier Choice for Travelers

I have used Maya Mobile for the last year, and I love it because it is so easy to use and has great coverage.

They cover 194 destinations and often I have 5G coverage, which I’m more than happy with. They include 14 countries in Asia/Pacific, 27 EU countries and 50 US States. 

My daughter uses them when she comes to see me in France, or when she’s going on holiday. She even used them when she went backpacking around Australia.

I have EU coverage with my French phone, so I tend to use it more if I go to the USA or back home to the UK for a visit.

You can choose from 5, 10, 15 or 30-day data passes and, choose from 1 GB to unlimited data.

Set-up isn’t hard, I’ve never had an issue, and activation is pretty much immediate.

📌 eSim Tip:

A quick tip if you’ve never used an eSim before, make sure you purchase your data plan and activate it before you set off. If you don’t, you’ll be stuck without data when you arrive rather than seamlessly switching between your normal SIM and your eSim.

Airalo – Seamless Connectivity Across Borders

Many of my fellow travel bloggers recommend Airalo and have had great experiences using them.

They’ve partnered with major telecom operators (Optus, Bouygues, Orange, Verizon, T-Mobile and others), in over 190 countries, ensuring reliable service whether you’re in the US, UK, Australia, or beyond. 

The process of getting started with Airalo is straightforward and you can purchase and activate eSIM plans through their app or website.

Each plan offers competitive rates starting from as low as $4.50 for local plans. For those seeking broader coverage, Airalo’s global plan includes 84 countries.

They also have an automatic network selection feature which chooses the strongest network to connect to wherever you are.

For me, their one drawback is not offering an unlimited plan like Maya Mobile does.

GigSky – For the Adventurous Traveler

Offering coverage in over 190 countries, GigSky provides a range of data plans that suit both short-term visitors and long-term globetrotters. It’s easy to get started and you can easily purchase and activate an eSIM plan via the GigSky app or website.

They have a competitive pricing structure and their plans are flexible. They allow their users to adjust their data allowance based on their consumption, which the others don’t do. It’s a big advantage if the amount of data you need varies a lot.

aloSim – The Traveler’s Companion

aloSIM is another top player in the field of eSIM providers, offering data in 170+ countries. They also have an App for easy management and flexible data plans.

One advantage they have over the other providers is that they work with a sister app called Hushed, which allows aloSIM users to avoid high roaming fees by providing numbers for calling, which are powered via the data plan from aloSIM. 

I do a similar thing with a platform called Devyce. It allows me to have a UK number but will only work on WiFi. 

It’s brilliant as I can call landlines with it, and as my Mum, who is 86, doesn’t have a mobile, it’s been a Godsend.

Simify – Keeping You Connected, Anywhere

Simify is the king of the physical SIM card rather than the eSIM. However, they do offer eSIMs, which is why I’m mentioning them.

Some people, such as my French teacher Sharon, can’t get their heads around an eSim and would prefer a physical SIM in a dual SIM phone. 

And my neighbour Simon, who lives in Germany but has a holiday home here in France, has a dual SIM phone, so it makes sense for him to do this.

And Simify is the best at this, so well worth a look.

Their range on eSIMs isn’t as good as the others, but like I say, their forte is physical rather than digital SIMs.

Which eSIM card is best for international travel?

My recommendation, through personal experience, is Maya Mobile as they cater specifically to the needs of international travellers

Why Maya Mobile is the Best Choice for International Travel:

• Personalised Plans: Unlike one-size-fits-all solutions, Maya Mobile offers personalised plans that can be tailored to your specific travel needs, ensuring you pay only for what you use. This makes a huge difference for me as sometimes I’m only in the UK for a couple of days.
• High-Quality Coverage: They cover all the countries I need and then some.
• Seamless Activation: Getting started is a breeze, with digital activation that lets you switch to your new eSIM plan without the hassle of physical SIM cards. And it’s pretty much instantaneous.
• Dual SIM Support: If you want to keep your home number active while using data abroad, Maya Mobile’s eSIM works seamlessly alongside a physical SIM, giving you the best of both worlds.

How to Choose the Right eSIM Provider for Your Next Trip

It’s not rocket science, to be honest, and I’ve done the hard work for you by giving you the top five providers. But these steps are still useful, as you’ll need to check a few things first, before getting an eSIM.

Check Device Compatibility: Ensure your smartphone or tablet supports eSIM technology. Most newer models do, but it’s always good to verify.

Identify Your Destination(s): Look for an eSIM provider that offers strong coverage in the countries you plan to visit. Coverage can vary significantly between providers.

Assess Your Data Needs: Estimate how much data you’ll need based on your usage patterns. Consider whether you’ll be streaming, downloading, or primarily browsing and emailing. You don’t want to pay for more than you need as you can always top up later.

Compare Plans and Prices: Look at the available plans from different eSIM providers. Consider both the cost and the data allowances to find the best value for your needs.

Read Reviews: Check out customer reviews like this one to gauge the reliability and customer service of the eSIM provider.

Check for Extras: Some eSIM providers offer additional benefits like free roaming in certain countries, the ability to keep your home number, or special rates for international calls. This can be really handy, especially if you have people who need to get hold of you quickly.

Understand the Activation Process: Choose a provider with a straightforward activation process. Most eSIMs can be activated digitally via a QR code.

Installation and Setup – A Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Check Device Compatibility

Ensure your device supports eSIM technology. This information can usually be found in the device’s settings under “Cellular” or “Mobile Data” options or by consulting the manufacturer’s website.

Step 2: Purchase Your eSIM Plan

Choose an eSIM provider and plan that suits your needs. Complete the purchase process on the provider’s website or app. You will typically receive a QR code or a manual activation code via email.

Access Your Device’s eSIM Settings

• On your device, go to “Settings.”
• Navigate to “Cellular” or “Mobile Data” and select “Add Cellular Plan” or “Add Data Plan.” The exact wording may vary depending on your device.

Step 4: Scan the QR Code

• Use your device’s camera to scan the QR code provided by your eSIM provider. If you were given a manual activation code, you might need to select an option to enter the details manually.
• Follow any additional prompts to complete the setup, which may include setting a label for your new plan or choosing how you want to use the eSIM (e.g., primary or secondary line).

Step 5: Confirm Activation

• After scanning the QR code or entering the details, your device should connect to the network. This may take a few moments.
• Once connected, you should see signal bars and the carrier name of your eSIM provider on the top corner of your screen.

Step 6: Configure Data Roaming (if necessary)

If you’re travelling, ensure that data roaming is enabled for your eSIM to use data services abroad. Go to “Settings” > “Cellular” or “Mobile Data” > select your eSIM plan > and turn on “Data Roaming.”

Step 7: Test Your Connection

Try browsing the internet, sending an email, or using an app that requires data to ensure your eSIM is working correctly.

Troubleshooting Tips

• If you encounter issues, restart your device and check if the problem persists.
• Ensure that your device’s software is up to date.
• Contact your eSIM provider’s customer support for assistance if you’re unable to activate or use your eSIM.

Is Every Device Compatible With eSIMs?

No, every device is not compatible with eSIMS, it largely depends on the manufacturer, model, and sometimes the region or carrier. Here’s a breakdown of devices known for their eSIM compatibility and those with limitations or lack thereof.

Devices Compatible with eSIMs

Apple Devices:

• iPhone: iPhone XS, XS Max, XR, and later models up to the latest iPhone 15 series, including iPhone 15, 15 Plus, 15 Pro, and 15 Pro Max. It’s important to note that not all models support Dual SIM functionality.
• iPad: iPad Pro (3rd generation and later), iPad Air (3rd generation and later), iPad (7th generation and later), and iPad Mini (5th generation and later) with Wi-Fi + Cellular models.
• Apple Watch: Series 3 and later with cellular models.

Samsung Devices:

• Galaxy S20, S20+, S20 Ultra, and later models, including the S21, S22, and S23 series.
• Galaxy Z Flip and Z Fold series.
• Note: Some models, especially those sold in the US or South Korea, may have limitations.

Google Pixel:

• Pixel 2 (limited support) and later models, including the Pixel 3, 4, 5, 6, and the latest Pixel 7 series.

Other Android Devices:

• Motorola Razr 2019 and Razr 5G.
• Huawei P40, P40 Pro, and Mate 40 Pro. Note: The P40 Pro+ does not support eSIM.
• OnePlus 9 and later models.
• OPPO Find X3 Pro and later models.

Microsoft Surface Devices:

• Surface Pro X, Surface Go 2, Surface Pro (5th gen LTE Advanced), Surface Pro 7+ LTE.

Devices Not Supporting eSIM or With Limitations

• Older Models: Devices manufactured before 2018 are less likely to support eSIM technology, including older iPhone models (iPhone X and earlier), Samsung Galaxy S9 and earlier, and Google Pixel 1.
• Certain Regions and Carriers: Some devices, even if they technically support eSIM, may have this functionality locked by the carrier or not enabled in certain regions. For example, iPhones from mainland China, Hong Kong, and Macao (except for the iPhone 13 mini, iPhone 12 mini, iPhone SE 2020, and iPhone XS) do not support eSIM functionality.
• Specific Android Models: Certain Samsung devices, including all S20 FE/S21 FE models and US versions of S20/S21 and Galaxy Z Flip 5G, do not support eSIM. Similarly, Pixel 3 models from Australia, Taiwan, and Japan, and those bought with service from US or Canadian carriers other than Sprint and Google Fi, have limitations.

How to Check eSIM Compatibility

1. Manufacturer’s Website: The most reliable source is to check the specifications listed on the official website of your device’s manufacturer.
2. Carrier Support: Contact your mobile carrier to inquire if they support eSIM on your device model and in your region.
3. Settings Menu: On many Android devices, you can check for eSIM support by navigating to Settings > Network & Internet > Mobile Network > Advanced or SIM Card Manager to see if there is an option to add an eSIM

FAQS: Choosing the Best eSIM for travel in France

Final thoughts: Best eSIM for Europe

As I live in France, and do about six or seven trips back to the UK every year, I’ve done a lot of research to find the best eSIM providers. But whether you’ve booked a holiday with a full Vietnam itinerary or a road trip through France, an eSim is the best way to go as it’s cheaper and won’t leave you with nasty bills after your vacation.

For me, Maya Mobile are excellent as they give me everything I need and are really easy to use.

Plus, they have a data plan for pretty much every type of trip I do, so it’s a win/win for me. It doesn’t matter if I’m going back to the UK to see family or a trip packed with things to do in Dubai.