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Best eSIM For International Travel [2026 GUIDE]

By 7 November 2024 July 30th, 2026 No Comments

Have you ever found yourself fumbling with multiple SIM cards and struggling with data plans just to stay connected while travelling? It used to be a constant struggle for me.

That was until I discovered eSIMs, a true game-changer for my travels.

If you’re gearing up for a trip, you’ve likely encountered various eSIM options and may be eager to know how they stack up against each other.

I’ve put a couple of eSIM cards to the test in destinations like Australia, Europe, and North America.

In this article, we’ll explore the best eSIMs for international travel in 2026, highlighting their features, pros, and cons to help you make an informed decision for your next travel destination.

Imagine arriving in a new country and instantly connecting to a local network without the hassle of finding and inserting a new SIM card. That’s the convenience eSIMs offer – no more waiting in line or deciphering foreign instructions at kiosks.

Plus, with data plans tailored to each destination, I can easily manage my usage and stay within budget.

Did you know that eSIM technology is eco-friendly, reducing plastic waste? Many devices also support dual-SIM functionality, allowing you to keep your home number active while using a local network, which is perfect for staying connected with both work and personal contacts.

If you’re curious about the best eSIM options for your travels in 2026, keep reading. We’ll dive into the details you need to elevate your travel experience.

P.S. Keep reading to snag some sweet exclusive discount codes for BATW readers!

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Featured Image

TLR; My eSIM Recommendation

Best eSIM for 7-day worldwide trip: Ubigi
Best eSIM for 30- day worldwide trip: Holafly
Best eSIM For Asia: Holafly
Best eSIM for North America: SIMOVO
Best eSIM for LATAM: Holafly
Best eSIM For Europe: Ubigi
Best eSIM for Digital nomad: Holafly
Best Overall eSIM for International Travel: Ubigi

eSIM Comparison Table 

ProviderCoveragePlan TypesDurationThrottling / LimitsSpecial featuresLimitation(s)
4S eSIM110–125+ countriesLocal, regional & global fixed-data plans5 days – 365 daysFixed-data only; “unlimited” plans usually follow daily high-speed caps before slowingFlexible bundles, very small data plans available, long-validity options, competitive pricingNo seamless top-up system, too many bundle variations can feel confusing
Jetpac~190+ countriesLocal, regional & fixed-data plans4 days – 365 daysNo true unlimited global plans; fixed-data structureAirport lounge delay perks, free essential apps after data runs out, strong value pricingHeavy users may burn through plans quickly; unlimited plans only available in selected countries
Saily120+ countriesLocal, regional & global fixed-data plans7 days – 365 daysNo true unlimited global planAuto top-ups, built-in ad blocker, tracker protection, virtual location feature, unlimited hotspot sharingMore expensive than budget-focused providers
Ubigi200+ destinations worldwideLocal, regional & global plans (fixed data & “unlimited” fair‑use)One‑off (1–30 days), monthly, annual“Unlimited” plans use a Fair Usage Policy; speeds may be reduced to ~1 Mbps after ~60 GB on 30‑day plans (threshold varies by region).Reusable eSIM, annual options, wide coverage“Unlimited” isn’t truly unlimited at full speed; must activate purchased plan and validity begins immediately.
Holafly160+ destinations (global)Unlimited & fixed plans (data‑only)Daily eSIMs (1–90 days) + monthly/annual subscription optionsUnlimited marketed data usually has fair‑use limits that may slow speeds after heavy usage.Easy install, global coverage, some plans include phone number (new global plan).Cannot top up existing daily plans; new plan must be purchased for extensions.

Best eSIM For Your Destination

girl phone, what to do in helsinki, things to do in helsinki

Helsinki, Finland

For most destinations, you can’t go wrong with any of the aforementioned eSIM brands. But if you are after a more specific destination-based eSIM recommendation, you can jump directly to my thorough guides:

eSIM For North America

Best eSIM for the USA
Best eSIM for Costa Rica

eSIM For Asia

Best eSIM for Philippines
Best eSIM for Thailand
Best eSIM for Malaysia
Best eSIM for Taiwan

eSIM For Oceania

Best eSIM for New Zealand
Best eSIM for Australia

eSIM For South America

Best eSIM for Colombia

Best eSIM For 7 Days Travel

eSIMPlanDataPricePrice per GB
Ubigi (my pick!)Global Plan10 GBUSD 39USD 3.90/GB
4S eSIMGlobal Plan10 GBUSD 45.02USD 4.50/GB
JetpacGlobal Plan10 GBUSD 45USD 4.50/GB
SailyGlobal Plan10 GBUSD 56.99USD 5.70/GB
AiraloGlobal Discover+10 GBUSD 57USD 5.70/GB
HolaflyLight Plan25 GBUSD 45.95/monthUSD 1.84/GB

For shorter international trips, Ubigi is honestly the strongest overall balance.

The pricing is lower than most premium global eSIMs, the connection stability across borders is consistently reliable, and the single reusable eSIM profile becomes extremely convenient once you travel frequently. You install it once and simply load new plans onto the same eSIM instead of juggling multiple QR codes every trip.

What makes Ubigi stand out for 7-day travel specifically is that it feels built for actual movement between countries rather than just staying in one destination. Airport transitions, train crossings, and regional travel feel smoother because the network switching is more stable than many cheaper providers.

Jetpac and 4S are better if your priority is stretching your budget while still getting large data allowances. Between the two, Jetpac feels more polished overall, while 4S gives more flexibility with plan structures and durations.

Saily performs extremely well technically, but for short trips the pricing becomes harder to justify unless you specifically value the automatic top-ups, security tools, and smoother app ecosystem.

Holafly Unlimited makes the most sense if:

  • you stream heavily
  • constantly upload content
  • travel full-time
  • hate monitoring data usage
  • rely heavily on maps and hotspotting daily

The biggest advantage isn’t speed — it’s removing data anxiety completely.

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Get an Ubigi eSIM for your International Travel here   

Best eSIM For 30 Days Travel

eSIMPlanDataPricePrice per GB
HolaflyLight Plan25 GBUSD 45.95/monthUSD 1.84/GB
SailyGlobal Plan20 GBUSD 66.99USD 3.35/GB
AiraloGlobal Discover+20 GBUSD 66USD 3.30/GB
UbigiGlobal Plan20 GBUSD 79USD 3.95/GB
4S eSIMGlobal Plan20 GBUSD 81USD 4.05/GB
JetpacGlobal Plan20 GBUSD 100USD 5.00/GB
Holafly (my pick!)Unlimited PlanUnlimitedUSD 64.90/monthUSD 2.16/ day

Once you travel for a full month, usage behaviour changes completely. Navigation, uploads, video calls, translations, booking apps, hotspotting, and long transit days start consuming far more data than most travellers expect. Fixed-data plans that initially look “large enough” can disappear surprisingly fast.

That’s why Holafly’s biggest strength isn’t raw speed or technical features — it’s consistency.

You stop thinking about:

  • topping up
  • monitoring remaining GB
  • changing regional plans
  • running out during transit days
  • buying new eSIMs mid-trip

That simplicity matters more over longer trips.

The newer Holafly Plans setup also fixes one of Holafly’s older weaknesses by allowing proper unlimited hotspot usage on the Unlimited Plan, which makes it much more practical for:

  • remote work
  • digital nomads
  • laptop tethering
  • creators uploading content regularly

If you still prefer fixed-data plans, Saily is probably the best premium alternative for longer travel. The auto top-up system, smoother roaming transitions, and 365-day validity make it feel more “managed” and less stressful over time.

Ubigi remains one of the strongest technical performers overall, especially for Europe-heavy trips, but it’s slightly harder to justify purely on pricing once you compare it against Saily or Holafly’s newer global plans.

4S is still one of the best budget-focused options for travellers who actively manage their data usage and mainly want coverage flexibility without paying premium-provider pricing.

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Get a Holafly Unlimited plan for your International Travel her 

Best eSIM For Travellers Travelling Around:

Asia

Holafly eSIM speed in China

Holafly eSIM speed in China

For Asia, my pick is Holafly eSIM — not because it’s the most technical or the cheapest per GB, but because it solves the exact problem most travellers actually face here: constant movement across countries with zero desire to manage data, settings, or multiple eSIM profiles.

Asia is a region where travel rarely stays “single-country”.

A typical route might look like Japan → Thailand → Vietnam → Malaysia, and each stop can come with different network behaviours, coverage strengths, and connectivity quirks. In that kind of setup, fixed-data eSIMs like Airalo, Saily, or 4S can work well — but they still require ongoing attention: checking usage, topping up, or switching plans mid-trip if you underestimate consumption.

Holafly is built around a simplicity-first unlimited model. You don’t manage GBs, you don’t monitor usage, and you don’t really think about when the next top-up is needed.

It’s essentially “set once and forget”, which fits how most people actually use their phones while travelling in Asia.

It also connects through local carrier networks in each country, which helps maintain stability across different environments. 

For users who do need consistent laptop tethering, Holafly’s newer Holafly Plans Unlimited subscription removes that limitation. At around USD 64.90/month, it’s designed for light-to-moderate everyday usage without friction — things like Google Maps, Grab or Gojek, messaging, social media, and video calls all run without needing to think about limits.

The trade-off is hotspot control: the standard unlimited plans typically include a capped hotspot allowance (~500MB–1 GB per day depending on destination), which makes it less ideal for heavy laptop tethering or remote-work setups

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Order a Holafly Unlimited plan for Asia here 

North America

For North America, my pick is SIMOVO eSIM because it solves a very specific travel problem here: moving between the United States, Canada, and Mexico without having to manage separate eSIMs or worry about switching plans mid-trip.

Unlike Europe or Asia where you often stay within tighter regional blocks, North America travel is usually spread out — road trips, flights between major cities, or cross-border movement between the US and Canada/Mexico. That’s where SIMOVO’s structure actually makes sense in real use.

SIMOVO runs on major local networks like AT&T, T-Mobile, and Verizon in the US, Rogers and Bell in Canada, and reliable partner networks in Mexico. In practice, this means coverage stays stable even when you’re moving between cities, suburbs, and highway routes — which is important in North America where travel distances are long and network gaps can appear outside urban centres.

What makes SIMOVO more practical is its two-layer usage system: standard plans and unlimited plans with daily high-speed caps.

For unlimited usage, you can choose daily high-speed allocations (1GB, 1.5GB, 2GB, or higher depending on plan). Once you hit your limit, you don’t get cut off — you simply continue at reduced speeds for the rest of the day. That daily reset structure is useful for long travel days where usage spikes unpredictably (navigation, bookings, streaming, hotspotting).

For more controlled usage, SIMOVO’s standard plans are where the pricing becomes very competitive:

  • 1 GB for 7 days – USD 6.90 (USD 6.90/GB)
  • 3 GB for 15 days – USD 14.50 (USD 4.83/GB)
  • 5 GB for 30 days – USD 20.20 (USD 4.04/GB)
  • 10 GB for 30 days – USD 28.80 (USD 2.88/GB)
  • 20 GB for 90 days – USD 47.20 (USD 2.36/GB)
  • 50 GB for 180 days – USD 95.60 (USD 1.91/GB)

For the unlimited option, SIMOVO uses a daily high-speed structure instead of a fixed pool:

  • Unlimited 2 GB/day for 7 days – USD 51.10 (USD 7.30/day)

After the daily high-speed allowance is used, speeds continue at a reduced rate for the rest of the day, with a reset every 24 hours.

This flexibility matters because North America trips vary a lot — short city breaks, long road trips, or extended stays — and SIMOVO lets you scale without overpaying upfront.

Another practical advantage is hotspot support across all plans, which is useful if you’re working remotely or sharing data with a laptop during travel days.

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Order a SIMOVO eSIM for North America here 

LATAM

For Latin America, Holafly is honestly one of the easiest eSIMs to travel with — especially if your trip involves moving between multiple countries instead of staying in one place.

Once you’re travelling through places like Mexico, Peru, Colombia, Argentina, or Guatemala, constantly monitoring your remaining GB becomes frustrating very quickly.

That’s where Holafly works well.

Instead of dealing with fixed-data limits, top-ups, or installing separate country eSIMs every few days, you install one eSIM and just travel normally. The setup feels much more “set-and-forget” compared to most regional eSIMs.

What stood out to me most while travelling through Latin America was how seamless the cross-border experience felt. You can land in Mexico City, continue to Colombia, then head into Peru or Chile without manually changing eSIMs or reinstalling new profiles constantly.

Holafly automatically connects to local partner networks in each country and supports fast 4G LTE and 5G where available, so the connection process feels fairly smooth once you arrive somewhere new.

I also found the unlimited setup more useful in Latin America than in regions like Europe because travel days here are often longer and more unpredictable.

It’s also one of the better options if you’re not particularly technical. Installation is straightforward, activation happens automatically once you arrive, and you don’t need to manually configure networks country-by-country.

The newer Holafly Plans setup also improves one of Holafly’s older limitations.

Previously, hotspot usage was fairly restricted. But with the newer Unlimited Plan subscription, hotspot sharing becomes fully unlimited, which makes it far more practical for:

  • remote work
  • laptop tethering
  • digital nomad setups
  • longer backpacking trips

For heavier travellers, Holafly Plans Unlimited is: Unlimited monthly plan – USD 64.90/month

What makes Holafly stand out in Latin America isn’t necessarily that it’s the cheapest option — because it isn’t. It stands out because it removes operational friction better than most competitors.

You’re paying more for:

  • unlimited usage
  • smoother border transitions
  • easier setup
  • less data anxiety
  • less plan management
  • stronger long-term travel convenience

That trade-off honestly makes sense in Latin America more than almost anywhere else.

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Order a Holafly eSIM for LATAM here 

Europe

Ubigi is my pick for Europe because it’s the only one I’ve used where the connection stays stable even when your trip stops feeling like “one country” and starts feeling like constant movement: trains, borders, airports, and weak rural coverage all in one route.

After weeks of regular use — Google Maps in cities like Barcelona, hotspotting my laptop on trains through Germany, uploading content in Switzerland, and doing video calls in Slovenia — it didn’t degrade or randomly drop. It just stayed consistent in the background, which is exactly what you want in Europe where connectivity changes constantly between regions.

Ubigi also gives you a virtual IP option for your home country, which is more useful than it sounds. It lets you access apps, banking services, and streaming platforms that normally get restricted when you’re abroad. I didn’t need to constantly switch networks or use extra tools just to access basic services, which made everything feel more seamless when working on the move.

Where it really stands out for Europe specifically is cross-border travel. You can land in one country and move through multiple others without touching settings or reinstalling anything. It’s one eSIM, one setup, and you just keep adding data when needed.

There’s also some flexibility in how you structure usage depending on trip style — short city breaks, longer regional travel, or even repeat trips across the year.

And if something doesn’t work as expected, there’s a 14-day refund window for technical issues, which adds a layer of safety when buying ahead of time.

Ubigi Europe Plans:

  • 1 GB for 7 days – USD 4 (USD 4.00/GB)
  • 3 GB for 15 days – USD 6 (USD 2.00/GB)
  • 3 GB for 30 days – USD 7 (USD 2.33/GB)
  • 10 GB for 7 days – USD 12 (USD 1.20/GB)
  • 10 GB for 30 days – USD 14 (USD 1.40/GB)
  • 25 GB for 30 days – USD 32 (USD 1.28/GB)
  • 50 GB for 30 days – USD 39 (USD 0.78/GB)

Limitations:

  • Not the cheapest per GB in Europe
  • Unlimited plans still operate under fair usage policies
  • More value-focused on stability than budget-heavy usage

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Order a Ubigi eSIM for Europe here 

Best eSIM For Digital Nomads

If you’re travelling full-time, working remotely, hotspotting daily, and moving between countries for months at a time, the “best” eSIM changes completely.

After testing multiple providers while travelling across Asia, Europe, Australia, and North America, these are the ones that realistically make the most sense for digital nomads.

Holafly Unlimited – Best Unlimited Setup For Remote Work

For digital nomads specifically, Holafly’s Unlimited Plan is honestly one of the easiest setups to live with long-term.

The biggest reason is simple: you stop managing data entirely.

The newer Unlimited Plan also fixes one of Holafly’s older weaknesses by allowing proper hotspot usage, which makes a huge difference for remote work setups.

Holafly Unlimited Plan:

  • Unlimited data — USD 64.90/month
  • Global coverage
  • Automatic network switching
  • One reusable eSIM setup

What stands out is how stable the experience feels across multiple countries. Instead of manually switching networks or reinstalling new regional eSIMs constantly, the connection automatically attaches to stronger local carriers as you move.

For slower travel, remote work, or long-term backpacking, that “set-and-forget” experience genuinely becomes valuable.

The trade-off is price. It’s more expensive than fixed-data providers, but if you hotspot daily or work online full-time, the convenience starts justifying itself pretty quickly.

Saily – Best Managed Experience For Long-Term Travel

If you don’t need unlimited data but still want something polished for long-term travel, Saily is probably the best-balanced option overall.

What makes Saily work particularly well for digital nomads is how smooth the overall ecosystem feels:

  • automatic top-ups
  • long validity plans
  • stable roaming transitions
  • unrestricted hotspotting
  • built-in privacy tools
  • easy plan management

The long-duration plans are especially practical for people moving between countries over several months:

  • 10 GB for 180 days — USD 56.99
  • 20 GB for 365 days — USD 66.99
  • 50 GB for 365 days — USD 129.99

That 365-day validity matters more than people think once you travel continuously. You can keep the same setup active across multiple trips instead of reinstalling completely new systems constantly.

I also found Saily’s hotspot performance more transparent than many providers. Some eSIMs technically “allow” tethering but quietly throttle speeds once you connect a laptop. Saily handled cafés, airports, trains, and hotel tethering reliably during remote work sessions.

The built-in ad blocker and tracker protection also helped reduce unnecessary background usage while travelling.

Ubigi – Best Technical Reliability Across Borders

Ubigi feels the most engineered for frequent international movement.

The biggest advantage is the reusable eSIM profile system. You install Ubigi once, then simply load different plans onto the same eSIM for future trips.

That sounds minor initially, but after months of travel, it becomes significantly cleaner than juggling dozens of QR codes and profiles.

Ubigi also performs extremely well during cross-border travel:

  • airport transitions
  • train routes between countries
  • road trips
  • regional movement across Europe and Asia

The network handovers feel smoother than many cheaper providers.

For digital nomads, these are probably the strongest plans:

  • 20 GB/month Unlimited Europe — USD 13/month
  • Annual 24 GB — USD 24/year
  • Unlimited 30 days — USD 69

Ubigi also supports unrestricted hotspotting, which makes it practical for remote work.

One underrated feature is the virtual IP option, which lets you appear to browse from your home country. That ended up being surprisingly useful for banking apps, region-locked services, and account security systems while abroad.

Which One Is Actually Best?

If I had to simplify it:

  • Holafly Unlimited → best for full-time remote workers who hotspot heavily and don’t want to think about data at all
  • Saily → best balance between long-term management, stability, hotspotting, and practical pricing
  • Ubigi → best technical cross-border reliability for frequent international movement

For most digital nomads travelling several months to a year, Saily probably hits the best overall middle ground.

But if your laptop is connected to your hotspot almost every day, Holafly Unlimited becomes much easier to justify.

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Get a Holafly Unlimited plan for your International Travel here 

Best Overall eSIM Brand For International Travel

#1 Ubigi eSIM For International Travel

ubigi esim plans, best esim for international travel

As a frequent traveller hopping between continents, one of the biggest hassles used to be constantly buying and installing local eSIMs for every trip. That changed when I started using Ubigi — an eSIM that genuinely works everywhere I go.

What sets Ubigi apart is its global reach and flexibility.

It offers data plans that work in 200+ countries and regions, spanning Europe, Asia, the Americas, Africa, and Oceania, so you don’t need to keep swapping out eSIM profiles every time you land — a huge time‑saver when you’re travelling back‑to‑back destinations.

With Ubigi, you get several plan options tailored to your trip:

  • Regional plans (e.g., Europe, Asia‑Pacific, USA/Canada) that cover multiple countries in one purchase — perfect if you’re doing multi‑stop trips in one part of the world.
  • Global plans that work across its entire coverage footprint, ideal for wide‑ranging itineraries without the stress of local data hunts in each place.
  • Flexible durations from a few days to monthly or even annual plans, so you’re not locked into anything you don’t need.

The Ubigi app even lets you manage multiple eSIM profiles if you want to keep backups or plans for different regions on the same device.

One of the best parts for frequent travellers is the hop‑on, hop‑off simplicity: you buy data once and use it in dozens of countries without constantly hunting for local SIMs or juggling carrier setups.

Whether you’re exploring Southeast Asia, road‑tripping through Europe, or working remotely from multiple continents, Ubigi covers you with minimal fuss.

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With many eSIM brands out there, it can be hard to differentiate the use and functionality of one from another, apart from their price points and coverage, so I wanted to deep dive into Ubigi and why it stands out from the rest.

Ubigi offers flexible plans tailored to various travel needs. You can choose between 1-day, 3-day, 7-day, 15-day and 30-day plans, which is great if you’re looking for short-term or extended coverage.

Ubigi’s eSIMs support data sharing, allowing you to use your device as a hotspot. This is great for sharing your connection with other devices, such as a tablet or laptop.

The Ubigi app is a standout feature. It simplifies the process of managing your eSIM, allowing you to activate your plan, monitor your data usage, and top up if necessary – all from one convenient place.

What I Like About Ubigi eSIM

One of the standout features is its international coverage and strong local performance. Ubigi has a solid network infrastructure across several continents, so you can stay connected almost anywhere.

Ubigi also has unlimited data plans in many destinations, including Japan, Korea, USA, UK and France.

Ubigi does offer low latency and high bandwidth, which supports international business needs and employee mobility. It also provides secure cellular connectivity to protect confidential company data from general internet traffic.

If you’re curious about how Ubigi stacks up against other options or want to dive deeper into its features and limitations, read on to get a fuller picture.

One eSIM for 200+ Destinations

ubigi 200 destinations, best esim for international travel

With Ubigi, you only need to scan a QR code to get started. This means that once you’ve installed it, you can use it in nearly 200 destinations without the hassle of swapping SIM cards. It made staying connected across different countries a breeze for me!

Personally, that’s a win for me. I’ve experienced cases in other eSIM companies (i.e. Holafly) where I’d have multiple QR codes for the different countries that I was visiting at the same time (this is often the case when you’re country hopping in a region like Europe) that I had to scan and install. That made things really confusing because I wouldn’t know which mobile plan I had to deactivate (when I was done with a destination) and which I had to activate.

Plan Duration

The plan durations range from 1 day, 3 days, 7 days, 15 days, 30 days, and even up to a year. I’ve found this variety super handy since my trips don’t always fit into neat timeframes. Whether it’s a quick weekend getaway or a longer adventure, there’s always a plan that works.

For example, I often go for the 7-day option for week-long trips, but if I’m travelling for a month, the 30-day plan gives me plenty of coverage without feeling restricted.

Solid 5G Coverage

In the destinations which I’ve used Ubigi in, I enjoyed good 5G coverage and never once experienced connectivity issues. This was a game-changer for sharing my travel moments in real-time without interruptions.

Tethering

Tethering is allowed without restrictions, which means I could share my connection with friends or with other devices of my own when needed. It’s so convenient for emergency connectivity instances!

Flexible Plans

Flexible Plans, Ubigi eSIM

Ubigi offers competitive pricing and a range of bundle choices. I loved the local rates in popular spots and had the flexibility to choose from one-off or recurring packages, ranging from 500MB to unlimited data plans in countries like the US, UK, France, and Japan.

Reliable Connectivity

Reliable Connectivity, Ubigi eSIM

Being a Full MVNO (“Mobile Virtual Network Operator”) means that Ubigi doesn’t rely on just one mobile network. They have partnerships with different providers across various countries. This allows them to offer better coverage and minimise dead zones because they can tap into multiple networks in each area.

So, when you’re travelling and using Ubigi, you’re less likely to lose signal since your device can switch to the strongest network available. It’s like having a backup plan wherever you go, which is a huge plus for staying connected, especially in remote or tricky locations.

Use promo code BEL10 to get 10% off on your first purchase! 

What I Don’t Like About Ubigi eSIM

Data-Only Service

Like most eSIMs, one of the main drawbacks of using eSIMs is that it’s strictly for data only. No phone calls or text messages are included.

While it’s great for staying online, if I’m staying in a place longer and need to communicate with local numbers, it may be a bit inconvenient if you need to make calls or send texts directly.

App Design

ubigi app dashboard, best esim for international travel

One minor drawback is that the app design isn’t as visually appealing as some of its competitors. However, it still functions well and gets the job done without any issues.

The interface might not be the flashiest, but it’s straightforward and reliable, which is what really matters when you’re travelling and need seamless connectivity.

Ready To Test Ubigi eSIM Out?

1. Get a plan on the Ubigi website.
2. Download the Ubigi app.
3. Create and Log into your Ubigi account from mobile (and then ideally set up biometric login in the app for easy sign-in).
4. Activate your plan from the app.

There are clear instructions every step of the way so you won’t be confused along the way.

Get 10% OFF with code: BEL10

Get an Ubigi eSIM for your International Travel here  

#2 Jetpac eSIM For International eSIM

What I Like About Jetpac eSIM

Ease of use

All it took was receiving an email, scanning the QR code, installing the eSIM, downloading the Jetpac global app, and as soon as I landed, I was seamlessly connected to reliable 4G/5G networks in most places.

Value-for-money

What I absolutely love about Jetpac’s eSIM is its high data value packs.

But that’s not all. Jetpac offers these high data packs at incredibly low prices, making it even more appealing for avid travellers like me.

Plus, they throw in some fantastic perks like free lounge access, because who doesn’t want to relax and unwind in style while waiting for a flight?

Prompt customer service

One thing that sets Jetpac apart is their commitment to customer satisfaction. To make things even more convenient, they offer customer support right in the mobile app.

Jetpac also understands the importance of your phone’s security. So if you ever lost your phone, simply report the loss via our website or via the Jetpac Global app if you still have access to it. They’ll take immediate action by terminating the old eSIM to prevent any misuse.

What I Don’t Like About Jetpac eSIM

Limited Device Compatibility

Jetpac eSIM has limited device compatibility, which can be a downside for some users.

Not all smartphones are equipped to handle eSIM technology, and even among those that are, certain models or carriers might not support Jetpac’s eSIM.

For instance, some versions of Huawei and Google Pixel devices have reported issues with Jetpac compatibility. Users might also face restrictions depending on their carrier settings or the region they’re in.

This can make the setup process more complex, especially for travellers who rely on quick, easy eSIM installation while abroad.

It’s always a good idea to check the specific compatibility of your device before purchasing.

Data Packages

The data packages offered by Jetpac can sometimes be less flexible compared to other providers.

Users have reported that the options for customisation or the ability to easily adjust data limits may be limited, which can be inconvenient if your data needs fluctuate during your trip.

Get a Jetpac eSIM for your International Travel here 

#3 Saily eSIM For International Travel

What I Like About Saily eSIM

Global Plans For Long-Term Travel

What makes Saily different from many travel eSIMs is how practical the global plans are if you’re travelling across multiple countries over a longer period of time.

Most “global” eSIMs either expire too quickly or become expensive once you need higher data amounts. Saily’s structure feels much more suited for actual international travel — especially slower trips where you’re moving between countries over weeks or months rather than one short holiday.

  • 5 GB for 60 days – USD 33.99
  • 10 GB for 180 days – USD 56.99
  • 20 GB for 365 days – USD 66.99
  • 50 GB for 365 days – USD 129.99

That 365-day validity is what really stands out. You can buy one plan and continue using it across different trips throughout the year instead of constantly reinstalling new eSIMs every time you land somewhere new.

Stable Across Multiple Countries

I found Saily performs more consistently than many cheaper regional eSIMs when moving between countries.

Instead of constantly reconnecting or struggling during border crossings, the transition between networks felt relatively seamless in places like Japan, the UK, Australia, and Southeast Asia. It connects through local carriers in each destination automatically, so I rarely had to manually switch networks myself.

That matters more than people think once you start travelling through multiple countries back-to-back.

Auto Top-Ups

This ended up being one of my favourite features once I started relying on Saily for longer trips.

When your data runs low, the next package activates automatically instead of forcing you to manually purchase another plan while already disconnected.

I’ve had situations with other eSIMs where my data died right before boarding passes needed loading, while ordering an Uber after landing, or while navigating train stations overseas. With Saily’s auto top-up system, that problem basically disappears.

For remote work or long travel days, that reliability becomes genuinely valuable.

Unlimited Hotspot Sharing

Saily allows unrestricted hotspot sharing, and this is something I tested heavily while working remotely.

I tethered my laptop in cafés, airports, hotels, and even during long train rides, and I never ran into hotspot blocks or artificial tethering restrictions that some providers quietly impose.

A lot of “unlimited” or budget eSIMs technically allow hotspotting but throttle speeds aggressively once they detect tethering. Saily felt much more transparent about it.

Built-In Privacy & Security Features

Saily also includes a few features most travel eSIMs completely ignore:

  • Ad blocker
  • Virtual location feature
  • Malicious website protection
  • Tracker blocking

Normally these are features you’d only get through separate apps or VPN subscriptions. I noticed the ad blocking especially helped reduce unnecessary background data usage while travelling.

Easy Setup Before Landing

The setup process is one of the smoother ones I’ve tested.

You receive the QR code instantly, install it before departure, and the eSIM activates automatically once you arrive and enable roaming. No airport SIM kiosks, no passport registration, and no physical SIM swapping.

3% Cashback Credits

Saily also gives 3% back in Saily credits on every purchase.

It’s not massive, but if you travel regularly and keep reusing the platform, the credits do build up over time.

Get 10% OFF with code: belaroundtheworld10 

What I Don’t Like About Saily eSIM

No Calls Or SMS

Saily is still fully data-only.

Apps like WhatsApp, FaceTime, Signal, Telegram, and Messenger work perfectly, but if you need traditional SMS verification or a local phone number, you’ll need a separate solution.

More Expensive Than Budget eSIMs

Compared to ultra-budget providers like 4S eSIM or MicroEsim, Saily is usually more expensive upfront.

You’re paying more for convenience, smoother plan management, automatic top-ups, and the added security features rather than the absolute cheapest price per GB.

Coverage Still Depends On Local Carriers

Even though Saily works in 120+ countries, performance still depends on the local partner network in each destination.

In major cities, speeds were consistently strong. But in very remote areas, speeds can still slow down depending on the country and local infrastructure.

No Unlimited Global Plan

Saily currently focuses on fixed-data global plans rather than true unlimited international packages.

For most travellers, the 20 GB or 50 GB yearly plans are realistically enough, but very heavy users may still prefer unlimited-focused providers. 

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Get a Saily eSIM for your International Travel here 

#4 4S eSIM For International Travel

What I Like About 4S eSIM

Flexibility

What makes 4S different from most international eSIM providers is how customisable the plans are.

Most global eSIMs push you into fixed structures — usually expensive unlimited plans or large bundles you may not even fully use. 4S takes the opposite approach. It’s built more around short-term flexibility and controlled spending.

That becomes genuinely useful once you start travelling across multiple countries with very different usage patterns.

For example, not every stop on a trip needs 20GB. If I’m only spending a few days in one city, relying mostly on hotel WiFi, or using data mainly for maps and transport apps, being able to grab a smaller plan makes far more sense financially.

4S offers global and regional bundles across 110–125+ countries with a huge range of durations:

  • 1 GB for 5–30 days from ~USD 6–7
  • 3 GB for 30 days from ~USD 15
  • 5 GB for 30 days from ~USD 24
  • 10 GB for 30 days from ~USD 45
  • 20 GB for 30–90 days from ~USD 81–89

There are even 365-day validity options, which is surprisingly rare at this price point.

Good For Multi-Country Trips

One thing I noticed using 4S internationally is that it performs better once you’re moving around frequently instead of staying in a single country.

Because it routes through multiple local carrier partnerships depending on the destination, I found transitions between countries relatively smooth across Europe and parts of Asia. I didn’t constantly need to manually install new country-specific eSIMs every few days.

That makes it useful for trips where you’re crossing borders often — especially in Europe where you may visit several countries within one trip.

I mainly used it for practical day-to-day travel use:

  • Google Maps
  • train bookings
  • Uber/Grab/Bolt
  • boarding passes
  • translations
  • social media uploads
  • hotspotting occasionally for laptop work

And for that type of usage, it handled things reliably most of the time.

Good Pricing Structure

A lot of cheaper international eSIMs look affordable initially, but once you move into larger data plans, pricing jumps aggressively.

4S stays relatively competitive even at higher tiers, especially compared to bigger global providers charging premium pricing simply for convenience branding.

The smaller plans also make sense for realistic travel scenarios.

  • landing in transit for a few days
  • backup data for emergencies
  • secondary eSIM alongside a local SIM
  • short stopovers between countries
  • slower travel where you mostly use WiFi

Most providers don’t really accommodate those situations well.

Long Validity Options

The 90-day and 365-day options are underrated.

If you travel frequently throughout the year, you can keep the same international eSIM setup active instead of reinstalling completely new systems every trip. That reduces a lot of unnecessary setup friction long-term.

Good Balance Between Coverage & Cost

Compared to many ultra-budget eSIMs, 4S generally maintains a decent balance between coverage quality and affordability.

It’s not trying to be the most premium provider — but it also doesn’t feel unreliable or unstable for normal travel use.

For international trips where you mainly need dependable everyday connectivity without overspending, it hits a fairly practical middle ground.

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What I Don’t Like About 4S eSIM

No Proper Top-Up System

The biggest weakness with 4S is plan management.

Once your data runs out, you generally need to purchase another package manually rather than simply topping up your current plan. During long trips, that can become slightly annoying compared to providers with automatic renewals or seamless top-up systems.

You need to monitor your usage more actively.

Too Many Variations

4S offers so many country combinations, durations, and bundles that choosing the “best” plan sometimes becomes confusing.

There are separate 110-country, 118-country, and 125-country bundles with slightly different pricing structures, which takes more effort to compare properly.

It’s flexible — but not always streamlined.

Coverage Quality Still Depends On Local Partners

Like most international eSIMs, actual performance still depends heavily on the local carrier in each country.

In major cities and tourist-heavy areas, speeds were generally strong enough for navigation, uploads, hotspotting, and streaming. But in remote regions or during cross-country transit, speeds can still fluctuate depending on the local infrastructure.

That’s normal for international eSIMs, but 4S isn’t immune to it.

Heavy Users May Prefer Unlimited Providers

4S works best for travellers who manage their data somewhat intentionally.

If you’re constantly uploading large video files, streaming heavily, or hotspotting multiple devices all day, fixed-data plans can disappear faster than expected. In those situations, unlimited-focused providers may feel less restrictive overall.

Support & Ecosystem Feel More Basic

Compared to providers like Saily or Airalo, the overall ecosystem feels simpler and less polished.

You don’t really get built-in security tools, cashback systems, advanced app management, or integrated extras. 4S focuses more on straightforward connectivity and pricing rather than premium features. 

Get 15% OFF with code: BAW15

Get a 4S eSIM for International Travel here!

$5 Holafly eSIM For International Travel

What I Like About Holafly eSIM

Easy Activation

Holafly esim, best esim for costa rica

Holafly eSIM is known for its straightforward activation process. You can set up your eSIM in just a few steps, which makes it convenient for travellers who want to avoid complicated configurations.

24/7 Customer Support

Holafly offers 24/7 customer support, which is a big plus if you run into issues while travelling. Having access to immediate assistance can be a lifesaver when you’re abroad and need help with connectivity problems.

Coverage In Over 160 Countries

Holafly covers over 160 countries, making it a versatile option for international travellers. You can rely on their service across a wide range of destinations, which adds to its convenience for multi-country trips.

Truly Built Around Unlimited Travel

What makes Holafly different from most international eSIM providers is that the entire system is designed around unlimited usage rather than fixed-data management.

A lot of “global” eSIMs still require you to constantly monitor usage, top up manually, or ration hotspotting once you start travelling heavily between countries. Holafly removes most of that friction completely.

Their new Holafly Plans is essentially built for travellers who move around constantly and don’t want to think about data anymore.

Unlimited Plan – USD 64.90/month

  • Unlimited global data
  • Unlimited hotspot sharing
  • One eSIM for worldwide travel
  • Monthly billing system
  • Coverage across multiple countries globally

For longer international trips, digital nomad setups, or multi-country travel, that simplicity genuinely becomes valuable. 

Get 5% OFF with code: BELATWHOLA5

What I Don’t Like About Holafly eSIM

Unable To Hotspot

Most Holafly plans don’t allow you to share your data with other devices or people, which means you can’t buy an unlimited plan and share it with friends or your laptop.

That said, some regional plans, such as the Europe Regional Plan, let you share a certain amount of data each day. I found this worked well for me because I could easily connect my laptop whenever I needed to get some work done. It was a nice little feature that added some flexibility to my travel routine!

No Option To Top Up Data

Unlike other eSIM providers, Holafly doesn’t offer the ability to top up data. Once your fixed data plan is used up, you’ll need to purchase a new plan, which may be inconvenient if you run out of data mid-trip.

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Get a Holafly Unlimited plan for your International Travel here

#6 Airalo eSIM For International eSIM

What I Like About Airalo eSIM

Wide Coverage

Airalo is a popular eSIM provider for travellers, offering coverage in over 200 countries and regions. Their eSIMs are easy to purchase and activate, making them a convenient choice for staying connected while on the move.

With such broad coverage, Airalo ensures reliable service in many locations, from major cities to more remote areas. While it may not always be the cheapest option, its extensive network makes it a solid choice for travellers who prioritise staying connected worldwide.

Customisable Data Plans

airalo esim for international travel

Airalo offers data plans from 1 GB to 20 GB. Their validity is 7 to 30 days, with some plans valid for up to a year. This variety lets you pick the perfect plan based on your data requirements and the length of your trip.

Loyalty Program

Airalo’s loyalty program lets you earn credits with each purchase. A portion of what you spend is returned to you as credits, which can be applied toward future eSIM purchases. Over time, this helps you save more and get added value from your travel budget.

Data-Focused Plans

Airalo sells data-only eSIMs. They’re great for travellers who use apps like WhatsApp, Messenger, and email to stay in touch.
For voice minutes, use certain local eSIMs or the Discover+ Global eSIM. They provide voice options.

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What I Don’t Like About Airalo eSIM

Pricing Structure

The pricing structure can be confusing for potential users. While some data plans are competitively priced, others may seem high for the amount of data provided. It’s crucial to evaluate different plans carefully to ensure you’re selecting the best value based on your travel itinerary.

Limited Customer Support

One of the main drawbacks I encountered was the limited customer support options. While they have a help centre, I found it challenging to get immediate assistance when I needed it. Response times can be slow, especially if you’re dealing with issues while travelling.

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GET 10% OFF for existing users with code: BATW10. 

Get an Airalo eSIM for your International Travel here 

More eSIMs Worth Trying On Your Next Trip

working on phone, tablet, planning a multi-destination travel

If my top picks don’t quite fit your travel needs, maybe you’re on a super tight budget, crossing a handful of specific countries, or after something with better value and perks — here are a few other eSIM providers I’ve explored (and other travellers have used) on international trips.

None made the “best overall” list, but each one shines in certain scenarios — and they’re all worth a look before you buy.

#7 Orbit Mobile eSIM

I’ve used Orbit Mobile on a couple of short trips when I wanted very cheap data across multiple countries — and one thing that stood out was how simple and transparent its pricing is.

Orbit Mobile doesn’t always have the ultra‑wide footprint of some big global eSIM brands, but for parts of Europe, Asia, and multi‑country travel, the price per GB can be significantly lower than many alternatives.

Here’s a snapshot of what this provider is like for international travel:

Pros / What I LikeCons / Limitations
Simple pricing: Plans are straightforward and easy to understand.Average coverage: Not as extensive as some global eSIMs (coverage varies by region).
Good value on short data plans: Especially for 1–10 GB plans in Europe and Asia.Support varies: Some travellers report slow customer support responses.
Multi‑country plans available: Useful when travelling across nearby countries.Mixed reliability: A few users mention delays in data activation or spotty connections in certain areas.
Quick activation: QR code activation usually works without hassle.Not best for heavy users: Not ideal if you need consistent high‑speed data every day.

What to Expect:

  • Pricing: In regions like Southeast Asia, South Asia, and some European routes, you’ll commonly see plans priced around USD 1 – USD 8.50 per GB depending on the destination and plan size. This can be significantly cheaper than many “global” eSIM providers, especially for travellers who don’t need huge data buckets.
  • Activation & coverage: Using the QR code sent after purchase generally gets you connected fast, and basic coverage is reliable in major cities. That said, coverage quality depends on local network partnerships — in some rural or less connected areas, you might see slower speeds or dropped connections.
  • Customer support: While many travellers experience smooth service, there are mixed reviews online about support responsiveness and occasional delays in data starting, so it’s worth being aware of that if you prefer hands‑on backing.

Overall, Orbit Mobile is a good budget‑friendly option for short trips or light data needs, particularly if you’re travelling across a couple of countries and want straightforward pricing with minimal fuss.

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Get Orbit Mobile for Your International Travel here

#8 Simify eSIM

Simify eSIM for New Zealand

Simify is a great eSIM for travellers who want broad international coverage without constantly switching SIMs.

Their global plans cover over 111 countries, while regional plans — such as Europe, Asia-Pacific, or the USA/Canada — let you stay connected across multiple countries on a single eSIM. This makes it ideal for multi-stop trips or extended travel, saving the hassle of buying new eSIMs every time you cross a border.

Many of Simify’s plans offer unlimited data for up to 90 days, which works well for heavy users, whether you’re exploring cities, working remotely from cafés, or streaming shows at night.

Hotspot and tethering are supported, so you can share your data with a laptop or other devices while on the go.

The main limitation is that some plans cannot be recharged or topped up, so you need to pick the right duration from the start.

Speeds may also slow under fair-use policies if you consume very large amounts of data quickly, but for most of us, everyday browsing, social media, navigation, and work tasks are covered without issue.

Overall, Simify is a solid choice for international travel, especially if you want one eSIM to cover multiple countries with minimal setup and maximum convenience.

15% off is applied automatically when you click through, or enter code BEL20 at checkout for 20% off on plans 17 days or longer (exclusive to BATW readers, minimum AUD 80 (USD 53) spend).

Get a Simify eSIM for your International Travel here

#9 SIMOVO

simovo unlimited, best esim for the usa

SIMOVO isn’t as flashy as some big brands, but I’ve found their fixed-data plans extremely competitive, especially in North America, where 20 GB for about USD 23 feels genuinely great value compared with many mainstream eSIMs.

Best for: Travellers going to the US, Canada, or Canada + US together — especially if you want to hotspot your laptop or keep costs down for remote work.

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Get a SIMOVO eSIM for your International Travel here

#10 Vuoly

Vuoly is one I turned to when I wanted good 4G/5G performance across large countries like the USA — it taps into major local networks, which means smoother coverage if you’re road-tripping or in areas where one carrier might drop signal.

Best for: Trips where roaming visitors often experience a weak signal (e.g. parts of North America).

Check out how Vuoly compares with the rest of the eSIM brands for USA.

Get 10% OFF Vuoly with code BATW10 here

Get a Vuoly eSIM for your International Travel here

After my travels through Europe with eSIMs, I’ve found that while there are some areas for improvement, the overall experience was quite positive.

What I loved most was being able to have my connectivity sorted out before I even landed, which made everything feel smoother. If you can navigate a few customer service hiccups and get used to the app, the benefits of seamless data access and a range of plans definitely make it worth considering.

If you’re after a hassle-free internet and a variety of data options for your next trip, trying out an eSIM could really enhance your travel experience. Give it a go – you might find it keeps you connected wherever your adventures take you.

Isabel Leong

Isabel Leong

Full-time travel blogger at Bel Around The World and SEO coach roaming the world at a whim, Isabel helps aspiring content creators and brands get the most out of their online presence by attracting organic leads/traffic and achieving financial freedom with her Skyrocket With SEO course. She's closely involved in and has been featured as a speaker in other travel & digital nomad networks & podcasts such as Traverse, Travel Massive, The Nomadic Network and Location Indie.