The Travel Companion You Don’t Leave Without – Airalo eSIM Review

Are you tired of juggling SIM cards and confusing data plans to stay connected while travelling? I used to be in the same boat. I would swap SIM cards at airports or search for the best local deals upon arrival.

That was until I stumbled upon eSIM, a game-changer for my travels. This digital SIM technology lets you download a SIM profile to your device. It eliminates the need for a physical card. It’s a hassle-free solution. It lets you switch networks and data plans with a few taps on your phone.

Imagine arriving in a new country and instantly connecting to a local network without fumbling around for a new SIM card.

That’s the convenience eSIMs have brought to my trips. No more waiting in long lines or deciphering foreign instructions at kiosks. Also, with destination-specific data plans, I can manage my usage and stay on budget.

Did you know that eSIM technology is eco-friendly? It saves on plastic waste. It also supports dual-SIM functionality in many devices. This lets you keep your home number active while using a local network. It’s perfect for staying connected to both work and personal contacts.

Here’s everything you need to know about eSIMs and how Airalo can make a difference for your travel experience.

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Should I Be Using An eSIM For My Travels?

When I first heard about eSIMs, I brushed them off as just another tech trend. But after using one on a few trips, I realised they’re more than a gimmick, they’re a travel lifesaver. So much so that I’ve written and compared all about the best eSIMs for different countries: 

North America & Central America

• Best eSIM for the USA
• Best eSIM for Costa Rica

Europe

• Best eSIM for Europe

Asia

• Best eSIM for Japan
• Best eSIM for Malaysia
• Best eSIM for Indonesia
• Best eSIM for Taiwan
• Best eSIM for Thailand
• Best eSIM for Philippines

Oceania

• Best eSIM for New Zealand
• Best eSIM for Australia

South America

• Best eSIM for Colombia

eSIMs Vs Normal SIMs

Switching from normal SIM cards to eSIMs was a game-changer for me. I’m a frequent traveller. Let me share my experience and the key differences between the two.

With normal SIM cards, I always found myself juggling multiple cards for different countries.

Upon landing at a new destination, I’d search for a local SIM card vendor. I’d swap out my existing card and then worry about keeping the tiny SIM safe. It was a hassle, not to mention the constant fear of losing my original SIM or damaging my phone’s SIM slot.

Then I discovered Airalo eSIM, and everything changed.

Unlike traditional SIM cards, an eSIM is built into your phone, allowing you to download mobile plans directly to your device. This means no more fiddling with tiny cards or hunting down local vendors.

On a recent trip, I was able to switch to a local data plan before I even stepped off the plane, all through an app. Having instant connectivity was a huge relief. It helped with navigating a new city.

Here are the benefits I’ve found with eSIMs and normal SIM cards. You can decide which is better.

Benefits Of eSIMs

Instant Setup

One of the best perks of using eSIMs is how quickly you can get connected. On my last trip, I was able to switch to a local data plan even before touching down, all through a simple app. No more scrambling to find a local SIM vendor or fiddling with setup – it was all done in minutes.

5G is Standard

In 2026, a good internet is not just about ‘connection‘ — we are talking about 5G. Airalo now hooks you up to the fastest local 5G networks in most major hubs, so your work stream doesn’t get interrupted by a weak signal.

Multiple Numbers, One Device

With eSIMs, I can keep multiple numbers active on the same device, which is a total game-changer for staying connected. I kept my home number running for important calls while using a local number for data and local contacts. It’s incredibly convenient, especially when you want to stay in touch with family and friends back home.

Plus, I can work from anywhere with my laptop, thanks to the reliable connection, making it perfect for remote work on the go.

No More Physical SIM Cards

Gone are the days of dealing with those tiny, easy-to-lose SIM cards. eSIMs are embedded in your device. So, you can’t lose or damage anything. It’s all digital, making it more secure and hassle-free. 

Why Airalo eSIM

Airalo isn’t the cheapest option on every route, and it’s not always the fastest. But it’s the one I keep coming back to — and there’s a practical reason for that.

As the first and largest eSIM marketplace in the world, Airalo covers 200+ countries and regions. That matters when your itinerary isn’t neat. Europe to Southeast Asia to a last-minute detour — one app handles all of it. You’re not hunting for a different provider every trip or maintaining accounts across five platforms.

The experience is genuinely smooth. Installation is a few taps in the app, and I’ve been online before leaving the arrivals hall more times than I can count. No roaming settings to dig through, no SIM card to lose at the bottom of a bag.

I’ve partnered with Airalo to share the same service I genuinely use on the road. If you want to try it yourself:

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I’ve used it personally across Europe, South Asia, and Southeast Asia, and it’s become one of those tools I don’t think about anymore – which is exactly the point.

The app also lets you manage everything in one place: top up, check usage, install a new plan for your next destination before you’ve even left your current one.

One thing worth noting: Airalo is actively expanding its unlimited data plans, so if that’s been a gap in the past, it’s closing.

It’s not perfect for every use case — I’ll get into where it shines and where it falls short later on. 

But for coverage, ease of use, and reliability across a wide range of destinations, it’s the benchmark I measure other eSIMs against. 

Which Airalo Plan Should I Choose?

Airalo provides a variety of eSIM options tailored to different travel needs. Here’s a breakdown of what you can choose from based on your destination and usage:

Local eSIMs

If your trip is centred around one country (or you’re not hopping borders every few days), Airalo’s local eSIMs are usually the smartest and cheapest option. You get local coverage exactly where you need it, with packages starting from just USD 4, which is hard to beat.

I’ve found local eSIMs work best when I’m staying put for a while — no overpaying for regional coverage I don’t need, and speeds are often more consistent since you’re connecting to local networks.

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Get an Airalo eSIM for your local travels here

Japan

When I used Airalo in Japan — from Tokyo’s neon rush to Kyoto’s quieter streets — it mostly did what I needed: maps loaded, bookings updated, messages sent.

Japan’s major networks are strong, and Airalo taps into them, so in urban areas you’ll generally get a stable connection for everyday browsing and apps.

Airalo Japan plans:

• 1 GB for 3 days – USD 4.00 (USD 4.00/GB)
• 3 GB for 7 days – USD 8.00 (USD 2.67/GB)
• 10 GB for 15 days – USD 17.50 (USD 1.75/GB)
• 20 GB for 30 days – USD 25.00 (USD 1.25/GB)

In Japan, many report occasional dropouts or slower speeds in pockets – especially if you don’t activate before arrival or are in less central zones. Still, many find it good enough for maps and messaging; just don’t rely on it as your only safety net in very remote areas.

See Airalo's Japan plans here

Thailand

Thailand tends to be one of the smoother countries for mobile data, and in places like Bangkok, Chiang Mai, and even many islands, Airalo generally holds a connection that’s good enough for navigation, social apps, and Google searches.

Airalo Thailand plans:

• 1 GB for 3 days – USD 4.00 (USD 4.00/GB)
• 5 GB for 7 days – USD 7.00 (USD 1.40/GB)
• 10 GB for 15 days – USD 10.50 (USD 1.05/GB)
• 20 GB for 30 days – USD 18.00 (USD 0.90/GB)
• 50 GB for 30 days – USD 27.50 (USD 0.55/GB)

Anecdotally, some find data consumption faster than expected or occasional reconnection issues, so topping up on Wi-Fi or planning light use before bigger days can save stress.

See Airalo's Thailand plans here

South Korea

South Korea feels almost wired for connectivity — so much so that even an eSIM is usually enough for everyday travel tasks.

In cities like Seoul and Busan, speeds can handle navigation, ride apps, and social posting without much fuss. Some users online have recommended simple network adjustments (like manual network selection) to smooth out connection quirks.

• 1 GB for 3 days – USD 4.00 (USD 4.00/GB)
• 5 GB for 7 days – USD 10.00 (USD 2.00/GB)
• 10 GB for 15 days – USD 19.50 (USD 1.95/GB)
• 20 GB for 30 days – USD 32.00 (USD 1.60/GB)

While many users get by with basic data needs, if you’re a heavy streamer or need constant high-bandwidth performance, it’s worth checking signal strength in advance or pairing with a backup local SIM.

See Airalo's South Korea plans here

United States

Travelling through the US with Airalo means being on major partner networks – especially in cities and suburbs. Note that coverage is generally solid in urban zones, but like with most global eSIMs, rural stretches can be patchier.

US plans:

• 1 GB for 3 days – USD 4.00 (USD 4.00/GB)
• 5 GB for 7 days – USD 13.00 (USD 2.60/GB)
• 10 GB for 15 days – USD 22.50 (USD 2.25/GB)
• 20 GB for 30 days – USD 37.00 (USD 1.85/GB)

It’s worth noting that Airalo’s eSIMs are data-only, so you won’t get a local number for calls/SMS.

United Kingdom

In the UK, Airalo taps into networks like EE, and you’ll find that basic tasks like maps, messaging, and browsing work well across most towns and cities. Users often mention that speeds are steady for everyday usage, though peak-time slowdowns in busy areas aren’t unusual.

Here’s what plans look like:

• 1 GB for 3 days – USD 4.00 (USD 4.00/GB)
• 5 GB for 7 days – USD 12.00 (USD 2.40/GB)
• 10 GB for 15 days – USD 19.00 (USD 1.90/GB)
• 20 GB for 30 days – USD 32.00 (USD 1.60/GB)

Some travellers share that activation or support can be trickier than expected, especially if you run into network config issues, so it’s helpful to double-check settings before stepping off the Wi-Fi at the airport.

See Airalo's USA plans here

Countries Covered

One of the reasons I keep coming back to Airalo is just how wide their local eSIM coverage is. If your trip is centred around one country, or you’re slow-travelling and staying put for a while, local eSIMs are usually the most cost-effective option.

You get local network access, straightforward pricing, and no need to pay extra for regions you’re not visiting. Packages start from around USD 4, which is honestly hard to beat compared to roaming or airport SIM cards.

Here are examples of countries where Airalo offers local eSIMs:

• Japan – from USD 4.00
• Thailand – from USD 4.00
• South Korea – from USD 4.00
• United States – from USD 4.00
• United Kingdom – from USD 4.00
• France – from USD 4.00
• Germany – from USD 4.00
• Italy – from USD 4.00
• Spain – from USD 4.00
• Portugal – from USD 4.00
• Australia – from USD 4.00
• New Zealand – from USD 4.00
• Indonesia – from USD 4.50
• Vietnam – from USD 4.00
• Malaysia – from USD 4.00
• Singapore – from USD 4.00
• India – from USD 4.00
• Turkey – from USD 4.00
• Mexico – from USD 4.00
• Brazil – from USD 4.00
• Argentina – from USD 5.00
• Peru – from USD 4.50
• South Africa – from USD 4.00
• Morocco – from USD 6.50
• Egypt – from USD 5.50

And that’s just a snapshot. Airalo currently supports 190+ countries and territories, including many places where finding a physical SIM can be surprisingly annoying or expensive (small islands, less touristy countries, or places with strict SIM registration rules).

Regional eSIMs

Regional eSIMs are one of those things you don’t realise you need… until you’ve crossed your third border in a week and your data just keeps working.

Instead of juggling multiple local SIMs, Airalo lets you stay connected across entire regions with a single eSIM. You install it once, and it automatically connects as you move between countries.

I’ve relied on regional eSIMs during fast-paced trips where plans changed constantly — and honestly, they remove a lot of mental load.

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Get an Airalo eSIM for your regional travels here 

Packages start from the shown prices below, and you can top up anytime if you’re running low:

Asia

Asia is where regional eSIMs shine the most. Hopping from Japan to South Korea, down to Thailand or Vietnam, often happens within days — and swapping SIMs every time gets old fast.

I’ve used Airalo’s Asia eSIM while moving through multiple countries in Southeast and East Asia, and the biggest win was consistency.

• 1 GB for 3 days – USD 4.00 (USD 4.00/GB)
• 5 GB for 7 days – USD 14.00 (USD 2.80/GB)
• 10 GB for 30 days – USD 25.00 (USD 2.50/GB)
• 50 GB for 90 days – USD 69.00 (USD 1.38/GB)
• 100 GB for 180 days – USD 89.00 (USD 0.89/GB)

This is a solid option if you’re doing a longer Asia trip or mixing work and travel — especially when itineraries change last minute.

See Airalo's Asia plans here

Europe

Europe is probably where regional eSIMs feel the most “effortless.” One train ride and you’re in a new country — often without even realising it.

I’ve used Airalo’s Europe eSIM while bouncing between Portugal, Spain, France, Germany, and Italy, and I didn’t once have to think about connectivity. Maps loaded instantly, bookings were accessible on the go, and border crossings were a non-event.

• 1 GB for 3 days – USD 5.00 (USD 5.00/GB)
• 5 GB for 7 days – USD 18.50 (USD 3.70/GB)
• 10 GB for 15 days – USD 35.50 (USD 3.55/GB)
• 20 GB for 30 days – USD 49.00 (USD 2.45/GB)
• 50 GB for 90 days – USD 100.00 (USD 2.00/GB)

If you’re doing a multi-country Europe trip, this easily beats buying separate local SIMs in each destination.

See Airalo's Europe plans here

North America

North America covers the US, Canada, and Mexico, which is surprisingly useful if your trip includes road travel or quick hops across borders.

I’ve found this especially handy when flying into the US, then heading north or south shortly after. You stay connected across all three countries without worrying about plan compatibility or roaming quirks.

• 1 GB for 3 days – USD 6.50 (USD 6.50/GB)
• 5 GB for 7 days – USD 23.50 (USD 4.70/GB)
• 10 GB for 30 days – USD 46.00 (USD 4.60/GB)

See Airalo's North America plans here

Other Regions Available

Airalo also offers regional eSIMs for:

• Africa – from USD 6.00
• Latin America – from USD 8.50
• Middle East & North Africa – from USD 7.50
• Caribbean Islands – from USD 8.00
• Oceania – from USD 4.50
• European Union & UK – from USD 4.00

These are especially useful in regions where physical SIM availability varies wildly between countries, or if you’re:

• crossing borders frequently
• unsure exactly how long you’ll stay in each country
• travelling overland, by train, or on multi-stop itineraries
• working remotely and can’t afford downtime

…regional eSIMs remove a lot of friction.

They’re not always the cheapest on paper, but in real travel terms — time saved, fewer headaches, and uninterrupted connectivity — they often end up being the most practical choice.

Global eSIM

Airalo’s Discover Global eSIM covers 138 countries — built for trips where you’re crossing regions rather than staying in one place.

It’s what I use when my itinerary spans multiple countries and I don’t want to rethink connectivity at every border. Land, switch on, connected. No buying a new plan mid-trip.

It’s not the best fit if you’re staying in one country for weeks — a local plan will be better value.

And it doesn’t cover every country, so checking the coverage list before buying matters.
For multi-destination trips or anyone stitching together continents in one go, it’s the practical choice.

• 7 days: 1 GB – USD 8.50
• 15 days: 2 GB – USD 16.50
• 30 days: 3 GB – USD 24.00
• 60 days: 5 GB – USD 35.00
• 180 days: 10 GB – USD 57.00
• 365 days: 20 GB – USD 66.00

Get your Airalo Discover Global eSIM here

Unlimited Plan

If your days are unpredictable — heavy navigation, remote work, constant hotspot, uploading on the go — unlimited removes the mental load entirely. No tracking gigabytes, no “Data Low” alerts at the worst moment.

That said, unlimited with Airalo doesn’t mean full-speed all day. Most plans follow a Fair Usage Policy: around 3 GB of high-speed data per day, after which speeds drop to around 1 Mbps. It’s not a hard cutoff — maps, messaging, and light browsing still work fine at reduced speeds.

Heavy uploads and video calls become frustrating. Speeds reset automatically at midnight, no action needed.

Hotspot is generally allowed, but all usage counts toward the same daily limit — so if your laptop is running in the background, you’ll hit the cap faster than expected.

For slower trips with reliable hotel Wi-Fi, a fixed data plan is usually better value. But if your phone is doing the heavy lifting all day, unlimited is worth the premium.

Think of it less as “do I need unlimited?” and more as “do I want to think about data at all on this trip?”

Get your Airalo unlimited plan for your travels here

Features Of Airalo eSIMs

After using Airalo across multiple continents, what stands out isn’t just the coverage — it’s how little effort it takes to stay connected while moving around. These are the features that have genuinely made a difference for me on the road.

Flexible Coverage

Airalo offers eSIMs for 200+ countries and regions, including local, regional, and global plans. That flexibility matters more than it sounds.

If I’m staying put in one country, I’ll use a local plan. If I’m bouncing between neighbouring countries, a regional plan saves me from reinstalling eSIMs every few days. And for longer, unpredictable trips across continents, the global plan means I don’t have to think about connectivity at all — it just works when I land.

Instead of forcing you into one “one-size-fits-all” option, Airalo mirrors how people actually travel.

Easy App-Based eSIM Installation

This is where Airalo really separates itself.

Everything happens inside the app — no QR codes, no emails, no manual APN tweaking. You choose a plan, tap “Install eSIM”, and the app handles the setup automatically. On iOS and Android, it’s consistently smooth.

I’ve installed Airalo eSIMs:

• at airport gates
• in taxis
• minutes before boarding flights

and it’s worked every time. Many travellers I’ve spoken to say the same thing — it’s one of the few eSIM apps where installation doesn’t feel stressful or technical.

Plans That Match Real Usage

Airalo’s data plans range from small, short-term packages to long-duration plans that last up to a year, plus Unlimited options in many regions.

What I like is that the choices feel realistic:

• short trips → smaller data, shorter validity
• longer stays → better value per GB
• heavy-use days → unlimited plans with clear fair-usage rules

You’re not forced to overbuy “just in case,” and you’re not stuck with tiny plans that run out after two days of normal use.

Easy App-Based Management

The Airalo app isn’t just for buying eSIMs — it’s genuinely useful while travelling.

You can:

• see real-time data usage
• get alerts before data runs low
• top up instantly without reinstalling anything

I’ve topped up plans while on trains, ferries, and buses — no dropped connection, no waiting for confirmation emails. Everything stays in one place, which is surprisingly rare with eSIM providers.

Loyalty Credits

Airalo’s loyalty program quietly becomes valuable if you travel often.

Every purchase earns credits that automatically apply to future eSIMs. It’s not flashy, but after months of travel, I’ve noticed I’m regularly paying less for plans simply because I’ve been using Airalo consistently.

It’s especially useful if you travel regionally or take multiple short trips throughout the year.

Data-First By Design

Most Airalo eSIMs are data-only, which suits how many of us communicate now — WhatsApp, Messenger, FaceTime, email, and work apps.

For travellers who still need calls or SMS, Airalo also offers:

• select local eSIMs with voice
• Discover+ Global plans that include calls and texts

The choice is there, without forcing voice minutes on people who don’t need them.

Support When You Actually Need It

Customer support is built directly into the app, which matters when you’re mid-trip.

I’ve contacted support a couple of times — mostly for quick clarifications — and responses were fast and clear. You’re not digging through help centres or waiting days for email replies when something time-sensitive comes up.

Easy Top-Ups

Running low on data doesn’t mean starting over.

Airalo sends reminders before plans expire and lets you top up instantly, keeping the same eSIM active. No reinstallation, no settings changes, no downtime. It’s one of those small things that becomes very noticeable once you’ve dealt with providers that don’t offer this.

What Is Airalo Loyalty Program

One of the things I love about using Airalo is their loyalty program, which helps me save on future eSIM purchases. Here’s the scoop:

When you start with Airalo, you earn 5% to 10% back with Airmoney in credits for every eSIM you buy, depending on your loyalty.

So, if you spend USD 20 on an eSIM, you get USD 1 towards your next one. It’s a simple way to get a bit of a return on your investment in staying connected.

Just remember, Airmoney stays active as long as you make one purchase a year!

But it gets even better. As you buy more eSIM packages, the amount of credit you earn increases. It’s a reward for being a frequent user.

The credit percentage rises as you use Airalo more. This system has been a game-changer. It lets me build credits for future travels. This makes it easier to manage my travel budget.

Here’s how it breaks down:

• Traveller: New users get 5% back in credits.
• Silver Traveler: After spending USD 20, you earn 6% back.
• Gold Traveler: Spend USD 70, and your reward bumps up to 7%.
• Platinum Traveller: Once you spend USD 200, you get 10% back.

If, like me, you love staying connected on a budget, try Airalo’s loyalty program. It’s a great way to save while you travel.

What I Like About Airalo eSims

After using Airalo across long stays, short hops, and work-heavy trips, what stands out isn’t the idea of an eSIM — it’s how predictable the experience is once you’re already on the road.

Simple Buy and Setup

Airalo simplifies the process of buying and activating eSIMs. You can handle everything online or through their app with just a few clicks. The setup is simple: follow the provided instructions. You’ll be up and running in no time.

If you hit any snags, their in-app customer support is quick to help.

Hotspot Usage

Airalo allows hotspot/tethering on most data-only plans, and this is something I’ve actively used — not just tested once.

In practical terms:

• I’ve shared data from my phone to a laptop while uploading blog drafts from cafés in Canggu,
• Used hotspot to back up photos while staying in smaller guesthouses in Kyoto,
• And connected a second phone while navigating rural areas where public Wi-Fi wasn’t reliable.

There’s no separate hotspot cap — usage simply counts toward your total data allowance. On unlimited plans, hotspot traffic is included under the same daily fair usage threshold (typically ~3GB/day of high-speed data), so speeds may slow after that, but the connection doesn’t cut off.

This makes hotspot reliable for:

• Emails, CMS access, Google Docs
• Light image uploads
• Messaging and calls

It’s not designed for heavy cloud syncing all day, but for normal travel + work use, it holds up.

Customer Support

Airalo’s support is in-app chat, available 24/7. No phone calls, no email chains.

Where it’s been genuinely helpful for me:

• Activation issues when connecting to a weak airport network
• Clarifying which network the eSIM had latched onto
• Resetting APN settings when data connected but didn’t load

Response times have usually been within minutes, not hours. More importantly, replies are specific — they’ll walk you through toggling network selection, resetting cellular settings, or reinstalling the eSIM if needed.

This matters when:

• You’re already abroad
• You don’t have another SIM to fall back on
• You need data now, not tomorrow

Data Plans That Match How You Travel

What I appreciate isn’t the number of plans — it’s how clearly segmented they are. For example:

• Short city breaks → 3–5GB over 7 days
• One-country stays → 10–20GB over 30 days
• Multi-country travel → regional plans without reinstalling anything

I’ve stayed in one country for weeks without touching my settings, and on other trips crossed borders with the same eSIM active. That consistency removes decision fatigue — you choose once, then move on.

eSIM Stability

Once installed, the eSIM doesn’t degrade, expire silently, or “forget” itself.

I’ve:

• Reused previously installed eSIMs by topping them up
• Switched them off when leaving a country and back on weeks later
• Kept multiple eSIMs stored on my phone without issues

This is underrated but important if you travel often — it turns connectivity into something passive rather than something you constantly manage.

Loyalty Credits

Airalo’s Airmoney credits aren’t dramatic, but for frequent travellers they add up quietly.

Because credits apply automatically at checkout:

• You don’t have to remember codes
• There’s no expiry stress
• Discounts stack naturally over time

For someone buying multiple eSIMs a year, this has reduced the effective cost of later trips without changing how I purchase plans. 

What I Don’t Like About Airalo eSIMs

Even though Airalo works well for how I travel, it’s not perfect. These aren’t deal-breakers, but they’re things you should know so you’re not caught off guard mid-trip.

You Still Need Internet to Get Started

The simplest way to avoid any arrival friction: install the eSIM at home before you leave.

You’ll need a stable connection to download and install it anyway, so do it on your own Wi-Fi, not airport Wi-Fi in an unfamiliar country.

Once that’s done, all you need to do when you land is toggle the eSIM line on. No scanning QR codes at baggage claim, no waiting for activation to load on spotty terminal Wi-Fi. Your connection kicks in automatically as soon as your phone picks up a local network.

I’ve made the mistake of leaving it to the last minute — fumbling with settings after a long flight isn’t fun. Install it the night before, confirm it’s sitting in your phone ready to go, and by the time you clear immigration you’re already online.

It’s Not Always the Cheapest Option

In many countries, a local physical SIM can be cheaper, especially if you’re staying longer.

The trade-off comes down to priorities:

• Local SIM → cheaper, but you may need to hunt for a shop, show ID, queue, and swap SIMs
• Airalo → costs a bit more, but you’re online immediately without touching your physical SIM

I’ve skipped local SIMs on trips where:

• I landed late at night
• SIM counters were closed
• I didn’t want to risk accidental roaming charges from my home carrier

If you do have time and don’t mind being offline for a while, a local SIM can save money. If not, Airalo buys convenience.

No Local Phone Number

Like most eSIM providers, Airalo plans are data-only — no local number, SMS, or voice calls. In practice this rarely matters since WhatsApp, FaceTime, and similar apps cover most communication needs over data.

That said, Airalo does offer some plans that include call minutes and SMS if you need a local number for a specific destination. Worth checking availability for your country before you buy.

This hasn’t affected me day-to-day since I use WhatsApp, Telegram, and email — but there are moments where it matters:

• Booking restaurants that only accept local calls
• Receiving SMS-based 2FA codes
• Signing up for local delivery or transport apps

There are specific plans (like Discover+ Global) that include calls and texts, but they’re not the default. If a local number is essential for your trip, this is something to plan around.

Setup Isn’t Always One-Tap

On iPhones, setup is usually smooth. On some Android devices, I’ve seen:

• Manual APN configuration
• Network selection that doesn’t auto-connect
• A need to restart the phone once or twice

It’s fixable, and Airalo’s support is responsive when it happens – but it’s not always instant. The easiest way to avoid it entirely is to install before you fly. Land, toggle on, done.

Performance Can Dip Outside Cities

In major cities, performance is generally solid. In more remote areas — countryside, mountains, smaller islands — speeds can drop or fluctuate.

I’ve noticed this most when:

• Driving through rural regions
• Staying in less-developed coastal areas
• Moving between towers quickly (trains, long drives)

This isn’t unique to Airalo — it’s tied to local infrastructure — but expectations matter. Navigation and messaging still work; heavy uploads and streaming can struggle. 

No Free Trial

Airalo doesn’t offer a built-in free trial. Once you buy a plan, it’s generally final unless support approves a refund.

If you like testing before committing, some other providers do offer free data:

Eskimo eSIM sometimes offers a free 1GB trial, which can be useful just to check coverage or speeds in a country before buying a larger plan

Personally, I’m fine without a free trial because I already know what to expect — but first-time users may want that reassurance.

So, Is This a Deal-Breaker?

For me, no — but it depends on how you travel.

If you:

• Want the absolute cheapest option
• Need a local phone number everywhere

Airalo may not be the best fit.

If you:

• Value instant connectivity
• Move frequently between destinations
• Work online or rely on maps and messaging

Then these downsides are manageable — and often worth the trade-off. 

GET 15% OFF Airalo plans for new users with code BATW15,

GET 10% OFF for existing users with code BATW10! 

Get an Airalo eSIM for your travels here

How To Activate And Use The Airalo eSIM

Activating and using an Airalo eSIM is straightforward and hassle-free. Here’s a step-by-step guide based on my experience:

Activating and using an Airalo eSIM is straightforward and hassle-free. Here’s a step-by-step guide based on my experience:

1. Find Airalo App

First, go to the App Store or Google Play, search for “Airalo,” and download it. Here you go!

2. Finding Plan

You can decide the eSIM plan that best fits your travel needs. Whether you’re looking for a local, regional, or global eSIM, Airalo’s website or app lets you choose from a variety of options.

Once you’ve picked the right plan, purchase it directly through the app or website (doing it on phone is easier to set up)

Don’t forget to apply the discount code:

GET 15% OFF Airalo plans for new users with code BATW15,

GET 10% OFF for existing users with code BATW10!

3. Direct Install the eSIM

After deciding on your plan, you can proceed with the payment:

• Open the Airalo App: You can pay with major credit and debit cards, including other digital wallets.
• After payment, navigate to My eSIM and select the option to direct-install my eSIM.
• Whatever you do, don’t close the app! Let it finish its thing, or you’ll break the connection.
• After installation, customize your eSIM label

4. Configure Your eSIM

Once the eSIM is installed, you’ll need to configure it:

• Go to Settings: On your phone, head to the settings menu.
• Select Cellular/Mobile Data: Choose the option to manage your cellular or mobile data settings.
• Activate the eSIM: Ensure that the new eSIM is activated and set as your default data line. You can also adjust settings for data usage and network preferences here.
• Make sure Data Roaming is turned ON for the Airalo line, otherwise it won’t connect when you land!
• Turn OFF “Allow Cellular Data Switching” in your settings. This ensures your phone only uses Airalo for data and doesn’t accidentally switch back to your expensive home carrier!

5. Start Using Your eSIM

That’s it! You’re ready to share your beach club reels or join that important Zoom call without a second thought. Welcome to the future of travel!

You’ll also be able to track your data usage and manage your plan directly through the Airalo app.

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If you’re gearing up for a trip and want to ditch the hassle of juggling SIM cards and data plans, give Airalo a shot. From my own travels, I can say it’s a game-changer. The ease of activating an eSIM and the flexibility of their plans have made staying connected a breeze for me.

So, if you’re ready to travel without data headaches, Airalo is worth a try. Trust me, you won’t be disappointed!