Best eSIMs for Travel in Europe, Asia & South America
Staying connected while travelling is more important than ever nowadays. Whether you’re navigating unfamiliar streets, booking your next bus, translating a menu or sharing your latest adventures with friends and family, having mobile data is essential for travelling.
But getting internet abroad isn’t always straightforward. Roaming with your regular provider can be expensive and figuring out where to buy a good and inexpensive local SIM card takes time and requires you to leave the airport and head into the city without any data.
That’s where travel eSIMs come in. They allow you to connect to mobile networks abroad instantly without needing to swap your physical SIM card, often making them a convenient option for travellers visiting multiple countries.
But which eSIM should you choose? And is the cheapest option always the best?
In this guide, we’ll explain how travel eSIMs work, what to look for when choosing a provider, and which options are worth comparing for trips to Europe, Asia and South America. We’ll also cover how much data you might need, how to avoid unexpected roaming charges, and how to choose an eSIM that fits your travel style and budget.
Let’s get connected!
1. What Is an eSIM and How Does It Work?
An eSIM is a digital SIM built into your phone. Unlike a traditional SIM card, you don’t need to insert or remove a physical card to use it. Instead, you download an eSIM profile and connect to a supported mobile network.
For travellers, this means you can often purchase a data plan before leaving home and activate it when you arrive at your destination.
Many travel eSIM providers offer plans for individual countries, entire regions or multiple destinations worldwide. For example, you could buy a plan for Thailand alone or choose a regional plan covering several countries in Southeast Asia. The exact destinations included depend on the provider and plan. Airalo explains its country, regional and global plan options here.
Why use an eSIM when travelling?
- Avoid expensive roaming: use a separate travel data plan instead of relying on your regular provider’s international rates.
- Save time: arrange your mobile data before travelling instead of searching for a SIM card shop after landing.
- Stay connected across borders: regional plans can cover multiple countries without requiring you to purchase a new plan at every border.
- Keep your regular SIM: on compatible phones, you can often keep your usual number active for calls, texts and verification messages while using the eSIM for mobile data.
- Manage everything digitally: purchase, install and top up many plans through an app.
However, an eSIM isn’t automatically the cheapest option. A local SIM card can offer better value for longer stays in one country, while your existing mobile plan might already include affordable roaming in some destinations.
The best choice depends on where you’re going, how long you’re staying and how much data you use.
2. What to Look for When Choosing an eSIM
Before comparing providers, it’s worth understanding what makes one travel eSIM better suited to your trip than another.
Price and data allowance
Don’t compare plans based on their advertised starting price alone. A plan offering 1 GB of data might look cheap, but it may not be good value if you need 10 GB for a two-week trip.
Instead, compare the total price, data allowance and validity period together.
Country coverage
This is particularly important if you’re backpacking through multiple countries.
A plan advertised as covering Europe, Asia or Latin America might not include every country you intend to visit. For example, European plans can differ in whether they include Switzerland, the United Kingdom and countries in the Balkans.
Always check the exact country list before purchasing.
Validity period
Most travel eSIMs have a set validity period, such as 7, 15 or 30 days. Check when the countdown begins: depending on the plan, validity may start when the eSIM connects to a supported network or at another specified point.
Choose a plan that covers your trip without paying for substantially more days than you need.
Network quality
An eSIM provider doesn’t necessarily operate its own mobile network. It may connect you through local network partners, and the available networks can differ between countries and plans.
Check which networks are used at your destination if possible. Coverage and speed can vary between cities, rural areas and remote hiking destinations.
Fixed data or unlimited data?
Fixed-data plans give you a set allowance, such as 5 GB or 20 GB. They’re often worth comparing if you mainly use maps, messaging and occasional browsing.
Unlimited-data plans can be convenient for heavier users, but unlimited doesn’t always mean unlimited high-speed data. Some plans have fair-use conditions, speed restrictions or limits on hotspot sharing.
Calls and text messages
Many travel eSIMs are data-only. That means you can use internet-based services such as WhatsApp, but you won’t necessarily receive a new local phone number or be able to make conventional calls and send SMS messages through the plan.
If you need those features, check the specific plan details before purchasing.
3. Best eSIMs for Europe
Europe is a convenient region for travel eSIMs because many itineraries involve crossing several borders. And in countries from the EU, it is standard for European providers to offer free roaming across all the countries. However, coverage varies between providers, so don’t assume every European plan includes every destination.
Here are four providers worth comparing.
Airalo, Best for flexible country and regional plans
Airalo offers country-specific, regional and global eSIM packages, with different data allowances and validity periods. This makes it a useful starting point if you want to compare a plan for one destination against a plan covering several countries.
Best for: travellers who want flexibility and prefer managing their plans through an app.
What to check: the countries included, available data allowances, top-up options and whether the plan includes calls or texts.
Nomad, Best for comparing fixed-data packages
Nomad offers regional plans with different data allowances and validity periods. Its Europe options are worth comparing if you want a set amount of data rather than paying for an unlimited-data package.
Best for: budget-conscious travellers who want to compare the price of different data allowances.
What to check: the exact country list, validity period, network partners and current price. Some plans and promotions may differ by destination.
Holafly, Best for travellers who prefer unlimited-data plans
Holafly focuses on travel data plans advertised as unlimited, which can appeal to people who don’t want to monitor their data allowance constantly.
Best for: travellers who use a lot of mobile data and value convenience over finding the lowest possible price per GB.
What to check: fair-use conditions, hotspot allowances, network restrictions and the total cost for your trip. These details matter even when a plan is advertised as unlimited.
Saily, Best for travellers interested in additional privacy features
Saily offers travel eSIM plans and additional digital privacy features through its app. It is another option worth comparing when choosing a European data plan.
Best for: travellers who want a straightforward eSIM experience and are interested in additional online security features.
What to check: the available plan for your destination, data allowance, validity period and which features are included in your chosen plan.
Which eSIM should you choose for Europe?
If you’re visiting one country, compare a country-specific plan with local SIM options. If you’re visiting several countries, start with regional plans from Airalo and Nomad, then compare the total price with alternatives such as Saily and Holafly.
If your trip includes Switzerland, the UK or the Balkans, double-check coverage rather than assuming every European plan includes them.
4. Best eSIMs for Asia
Asia is a particularly useful region for travel eSIMs because backpacking itineraries often cross several borders. You might spend a few weeks in Thailand before travelling through Vietnam, Cambodia and Malaysia, for example.
Buying a separate SIM card in every country can work well, but a regional eSIM can make the process simpler.
Airalo, Best for multi-country travel
Explore Airalo’s Asia eSIM options
Airalo offers regional plans as well as country-specific options. This can be useful if your itinerary includes several destinations and you want to manage your mobile data through one provider.
Best for: backpackers travelling through multiple Asian countries.
What to check: whether every country on your itinerary is included and whether the data allowance will last for your whole trip.
Nomad, Best for comparing regional data plans
Explore Nomad’s regional plans
Nomad offers regional packages, including plans for parts of Asia and the Asia-Pacific region. The exact destinations vary by plan, so compare the coverage list against your itinerary.
Best for: travellers who want to compare fixed-data packages for a multi-country trip.
What to check: the countries covered, network partners, hotspot support and the price per GB.
Holafly, Best for travellers who use a lot of data
Explore Holafly’s regional eSIMs
Holafly is worth considering if you prefer an unlimited-data plan and don’t want to think too much about how much data you’re using.
Best for: travellers who frequently browse, stream or use data-heavy apps.
What to check: the conditions attached to unlimited data, especially hotspot sharing and any fair-use restrictions.
Saily, Another option for regional travel
Saily offers travel eSIM plans for different destinations, including regional options where available. It’s worth comparing against other providers if you want an app-based service with additional privacy features.
Best for: travellers who want another straightforward option to compare on price and plan features.
What to check: regional availability, data allowances and the local networks used in each country.
What about local SIM cards in Asia?
Local SIM cards can be excellent value, especially if you’re spending a month or longer in one country. In some destinations, a local plan may offer more data for less money than a regional travel eSIM.
On the other hand, a regional eSIM can save time if you’re moving frequently between countries.
For a short trip through Thailand, Cambodia and Vietnam, for example, compare the cost of one regional eSIM with the combined cost of three local plans. Don’t forget to consider the convenience of not having to arrange a new connection every time you cross a border.
Our advice: choose a regional eSIM for convenience, but check local SIM prices if your priority is getting the most data for your money.
5. Best eSIMs for South America
South America presents a slightly different challenge. Distances between destinations can be enormous, and many travellers visit several countries over a longer trip.
A regional eSIM can simplify connectivity, but it’s especially important to check coverage if you’re planning to explore remote areas, travel through the Andes or spend time in national parks.
Airalo, Best for flexible regional and country plans
Airalo is worth comparing for both single-country trips and itineraries that cross multiple borders.
Best for: travellers who want to compare local and regional packages before committing to a plan.
What to check: the countries covered by the specific regional plan, particularly if you’re visiting less frequently included destinations.
Nomad, Best for comparing fixed-data options
Nomad offers regional and global eSIM options, with coverage and pricing varying by package.
Best for: travellers who prefer a defined data allowance and want to compare the cost of different packages.
What to check: whether your complete itinerary is covered, along with the validity period and data allowance.
Holafly, Best for travellers who prefer unlimited-data plans
Holafly is another option to compare if you want a plan advertised as unlimited rather than tracking a fixed allowance.
Best for: travellers who use a lot of mobile data and prefer a simpler allowance structure.
What to check: fair-use terms, hotspot restrictions, country coverage and the cost for the full trip.
Saily, Worth comparing for regional travel
Saily offers travel data plans for supported destinations and is another provider to consider when comparing features and prices.
Best for: travellers who value an app-based setup and additional privacy features.
What to check: whether a suitable regional plan is available for your destinations and how its price compares with alternatives.
Is a regional eSIM enough for South America?
It depends on your route.
If you’re visiting major cities in Brazil, Argentina, Chile, Peru and Colombia, a regional plan may be convenient if it covers all of them. But if your itinerary includes remote hiking areas or long journeys through rural regions, don’t assume the eSIM will provide reliable signal everywhere.
Before buying, check the local network partners and look for coverage information relevant to the places you’re visiting.
For longer stays in one country, compare the regional eSIM with a local SIM or local eSIM. The savings can be worthwhile if you need a large amount of data over several weeks.
6. Compare the Best eSIM Providers at a Glance
If you don’t want to read through every regional recommendation, use this table as a starting point.
| Provider | Worth comparing for | Main consideration |
|---|---|---|
| Airalo | Country, regional and global plans | Check exact coverage and plan terms |
| Nomad | Fixed-data packages and regional plans | Compare data allowance and validity |
| Holafly | Plans advertised as unlimited data | Check fair-use and hotspot restrictions |
| Saily | Travel data and additional privacy features | Compare regional availability and included features |
There isn’t one provider that is automatically best for every trip. Prices, data allowances, available countries and network partners change, so the best choice is the plan that matches your itinerary and data needs at the time of booking.
Before making a purchase, compare the providers’ current offers directly.
7. Regional eSIM vs Global eSIM vs Local SIM
Travel eSIMs generally fall into three useful categories. Understanding the differences can help you avoid spending more than necessary.
Regional eSIM
A regional eSIM covers several countries within a particular region.
For example, a Southeast Asia plan might cover several countries you intend to visit on a backpacking trip. You can use one plan across the included destinations instead of buying a separate plan for each country.
Advantages:
- Convenient for multi-country trips.
- Less time spent arranging connectivity at borders.
- One plan can cover several stops on your itinerary.
Disadvantages:
- The included countries vary.
- Regional plans aren’t always the cheapest option.
- Network quality can differ between destinations.
Global eSIM
A global eSIM is designed to cover destinations across multiple regions, although the exact countries included depend on the plan.
This can be useful if you’re travelling from Europe to Asia and then South America, particularly if you want to manage connectivity through one provider.
Advantages:
- Convenient for trips spanning multiple regions.
- Potentially fewer separate plans to manage.
- Useful for travellers who move between continents frequently.
Disadvantages:
- May cost more than a regional plan.
- Country coverage and data allowances can be limited.
- Not every global plan includes every destination.
Local SIM or local eSIM
A local SIM or locally sold eSIM is designed for use in a particular country.
This can be a good choice if you’re staying in one destination for an extended period and want a larger data allowance for your money.
Advantages:
- Can offer better value for longer stays.
- May provide access to local packages with larger data allowances.
- Can be useful if you need a local number, depending on the plan.
Disadvantages:
- You may need to arrange a new plan when crossing borders.
- Registration requirements can vary by country.
- Finding and setting up a local plan takes time.
Which option is best for you?
As a general rule, start with a regional eSIM if you’re visiting several countries within one region, compare global plans if your trip crosses continents, and look at local plans if you’re staying in one country for a long time.
Always compare the total cost for your actual itinerary rather than choosing based on the plan’s headline price.
8. How Much Mobile Data Do You Actually Need?
One of the easiest ways to overspend on an eSIM is to buy far more data than you need. On the other hand, buying too little can leave you searching for Wi-Fi when you need directions or transport information.
Your ideal allowance depends on how you use your phone.
| Travel style | Rough daily data estimate |
|---|---|
| Maps, messaging and occasional browsing | 0.3–1 GB |
| Social media, photos and regular browsing | 1–3 GB |
| Frequent video streaming, uploads or hotspot use | 3–5+ GB |
These are planning estimates rather than guaranteed usage figures. Video quality, automatic photo backups, app updates and hotspot use can make a substantial difference.
Tips for using less data while travelling
Download offline maps. Google Maps and other navigation apps can let you download maps in advance for supported areas.
Download entertainment before travelling. Save music, podcasts and films over Wi-Fi rather than streaming them on mobile data.
Turn off automatic backups over mobile data. Photos and videos can consume large amounts of data, particularly if you’re filming in high resolution.
Use Wi-Fi for large uploads. If you create travel content, wait until you have a reliable Wi-Fi connection before uploading long videos or backing up large files whenever possible.
Monitor your usage. Check your phone’s mobile-data settings and your eSIM provider’s app to see how quickly you’re using your allowance.
What if you create travel content?
If you’re filming your trip, uploading TikToks or backing up footage, your data needs may be much higher than those of an average traveller.
Don’t assume that an unlimited-data plan will let you share unlimited high-speed data with a laptop or another device. Check the plan’s hotspot allowance and any fair-use conditions first.
For many creators, using an eSIM for navigation and everyday connectivity while uploading large files over Wi-Fi is a sensible way to keep costs down.
9. How to Set Up an eSIM Before Your Trip
Setting up an eSIM is generally straightforward, but it’s best to do it before you leave home rather than trying to troubleshoot it at the airport.
Step 1: Check your phone
Make sure your phone supports eSIMs and isn’t locked to a mobile carrier that prevents you from using another provider. Some device models, especially regional variants, may not support eSIMs.
Check your manufacturer’s compatibility information before purchasing.
Step 2: Choose the right plan
Select your destination or region, then compare the data allowance, validity period, country coverage and price.
If you’re visiting multiple countries, check that every destination on your itinerary is included.
Step 3: Install the eSIM
Follow the provider’s instructions to install the eSIM profile. This may involve scanning a QR code or completing the setup through an app.
You’ll generally need a reliable internet connection during installation, so it’s sensible to do this while you’re still at home or connected to Wi-Fi. Airalo’s setup guide explains the general process.
Step 4: Check when the plan activates
Some plans start their validity period when they connect to a supported network, while others may have different activation rules.
Read the instructions carefully so you don’t accidentally use up your plan before your trip begins.
Step 5: Set your mobile-data preferences
When you arrive, select the travel eSIM for mobile data if that’s how you intend to use it. Keep your regular SIM active only if you need it, and check your home provider’s roaming terms to avoid unexpected charges.
Some eSIMs require data roaming to be enabled on the eSIM line itself. Follow your provider’s instructions rather than switching settings blindly.
Step 6: Test your connection
Once you’ve arrived, check that the eSIM connects to a supported network and that mobile data works.
If it doesn’t, check that the eSIM is enabled, the correct data line is selected and any required roaming settings are configured. Use the provider’s troubleshooting instructions before deleting or reinstalling the eSIM.
10. Common eSIM Mistakes to Avoid
A little preparation can save you money and frustration on the road.
1. Buying a plan that doesn’t cover your entire itinerary.
Check the included countries individually, particularly if you’re visiting destinations outside the EU or travelling through the Balkans.
2. Choosing a plan based only on its starting price.
Compare the total cost, data allowance and validity period. A cheap plan may offer very little data.
3. Assuming unlimited means unlimited high-speed data.
Read the fair-use conditions and check for speed restrictions or hotspot limits.
4. Forgetting to check hotspot support.
If you need to connect a laptop or share data with your travel partner, make sure your chosen plan allows it.
5. Accidentally using your regular SIM for roaming data.
Check your mobile-data settings and your home provider’s roaming terms before travelling.
6. Activating a plan too early.
Understand when validity begins so you don’t lose days before reaching your destination.
7. Expecting coverage everywhere.
An eSIM can only connect where its partner networks provide service. Remote mountains, national parks and rural areas may have limited or no signal.
8. Deleting your eSIM while troubleshooting.
Some eSIM profiles cannot simply be reinstalled after deletion. Check the provider’s instructions or contact support before removing the profile.
11. Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best eSIM for travelling in Europe?
There isn’t one best option for every trip. Airalo, Nomad, Holafly and Saily are all worth comparing. Consider a regional plan if you’re visiting multiple countries, and check whether it includes destinations such as Switzerland and the UK if they’re part of your itinerary.
What is the best eSIM for Southeast Asia?
For a multi-country backpacking trip, compare regional plans from providers such as Airalo and Nomad, alongside alternatives from Holafly and Saily. Check that every country on your route is covered and compare the total cost against local SIM cards.
What is the best eSIM for South America?
Start by comparing regional plans that cover your intended destinations. Airalo, Nomad, Holafly and Saily are options to investigate, but availability varies. If you’re travelling through remote regions or staying in one country for several weeks, pay particular attention to local coverage and alternatives.
Is Airalo better than Holafly?
It depends on your priorities. Airalo offers country, regional and global packages with different data allowances, while Holafly focuses on plans advertised as unlimited. Compare the actual cost, high-speed data conditions, hotspot restrictions and destination coverage before deciding.
Is a regional eSIM cheaper than buying local SIM cards?
Not always. Regional eSIMs can be convenient for short trips across several countries, but local SIM cards may offer better value for longer stays in one destination. Compare the total cost for your trip.
Can I use WhatsApp with an eSIM?
Yes, provided your eSIM has a working internet connection. WhatsApp can continue using your existing account and number, so you generally don’t need a new WhatsApp account just because you’re using a travel eSIM.
Can I keep my regular phone number?
On compatible dual-SIM devices, you can often keep your regular SIM active while using a travel eSIM for mobile data. However, calls, texts and roaming charges depend on your home provider and phone settings. Check those details before travelling.
Can I use an eSIM in multiple countries?
Yes, if the plan specifically includes those countries. Regional and global plans are designed for multi-country travel, but the coverage list varies between providers and packages.
Do eSIMs work in remote areas?
They work where their partner networks provide coverage. In remote areas, signal may be weak or unavailable regardless of which eSIM provider you choose. Download offline maps and important travel information before heading into areas with limited connectivity.
Is an eSIM worth it for a one-week trip?
It can be, especially if you want internet access immediately after landing or need data in several countries. For a short trip to one destination, compare the eSIM price with your existing roaming package and local SIM options.
12. Conclusion: Which eSIM Should You Choose?
The best travel eSIM isn’t necessarily the cheapest one or the one advertising the most data. It’s the one that gives you the right coverage, enough data for your travel style and good value for the entire trip.
Here’s our simple recommendation:
- Travelling around one country? Compare a country-specific eSIM with local SIM options.
- Backpacking through several countries? Start with regional eSIM plans.
- Travelling across multiple continents? Compare global plans against separate regional packages.
- Using lots of data? Look closely at high-speed allowances, hotspot restrictions and fair-use terms.
- Trying to keep costs as low as possible? Estimate your data usage and compare the total price rather than choosing an unlimited plan automatically.
Whichever provider you choose, check the current coverage and terms before purchasing, and set up your eSIM before departure whenever possible.
At Peaks & Polders, we believe travelling on a budget is about making smart choices that leave you with more money for the experiences that matter. Staying connected is one of those decisions: choose the right plan, avoid unnecessary roaming costs and spend more of your travel budget exploring the world.
Happy travels!
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