Best eSIM For Philippines [2026 GUIDE]

Planning a trip to the Philippines and trying to figure out how to stay connected without the hassle of swapping SIM cards? I’ve been there.

Having travelled there multiple times, I’ve had my fair share of frustrating moments dealing with eSIMs. The Philippines has some stunning remote spots, but getting a reliable signal isn’t always easy. Trust me, choosing the right eSIM provider can either make or break your experience.

When it comes to eSIMs, I mostly opt for unlimited data plans because, let’s face it, I was posting a lot of content for my blog and socials. While I got the freedom to surf as much as I wanted, I ran into a huge problem – it didn’t support hotspot sharing. As a digital nomad, I need the ability to tether my laptop, and that just wasn’t an option.

Each eSIM provider I’ve tried has had its ups and downs, and after going through the trial and error, I’ve picked up some key things you should look out for when choosing your eSIM, especially how much data you need.

In this guide, I’ll break down everything you need to know about Philippines in 2026. From picking the right option for your budget to figuring out which provider has the best data plans and coverage, I’ll cover it all.

Let’s make sure your Philippine adventure kicks off with reliable connectivity.

My Recommendation For The Best eSIM To Use In The Philippines

Before I tell you my recommendation of eSIM to use in the Philippines, let me share something personal – choosing the right eSIM can make or break a trip.

Imagine you’re exploring beautiful places like the Chocolate Hills in Bohol, and you’re itching to share the moment with your friends or followers. But your data cuts out. Or navigating Manila, hunting down that hidden café everyone’s raving about, only for your GPS to give up. I’ve been there, and it can get frustrating.

During my travels across the Philippines, I tested several eSIMs to see which ones could actually keep up — not just in major cities like Manila and Cebu City, but also in more remote and unpredictable spots like Siargao, Coron, and the rural areas of Bohol.

After all that testing, one provider consistently delivered the most reliable experience: Orbit Mobile.

Orbit Mobile runs on local Filipino networks, offering fast and steady 4G and 5G coverage across cities, small towns, coastal villages, and even some of the harder-to-reach island destinations.

What makes it stand out even more is how practical it is for travellers.

Their data packages are flexible, activation is quick and seamless, hotspot support works well, and network uptime was solid wherever I went. And if something doesn’t work, their money-back guarantee is genuinely reassuring — something not many budget eSIM providers offer.

While Orbit Mobile doesn’t offer unlimited daily data refreshes, it still manages to be one of the most affordable, reliable, and traveller-friendly eSIM options for exploring the Philippines.

Use code BATW10 to get 10% off your Orbit Mobile purchase.

Order an Orbit Mobile eSIM for Philippines here!

Why eSIMs Are Perfect For Philippines Travel

During my trips to the Philippines, I quickly learned that eSIMs are a game-changer for modern travellers.

In contrast to real SIM cards, you won’t have to wait in line at the airport, struggle with little SIM ejector tools, or be concerned about misplacing your home SIM. You can activate your data plan with an eSIM even before you travel to the Philippines. All you have to do is scan a QR code.

Whether you’re a light data user or someone who needs constant connectivity, read on as I’ll be sharing practical tips on where to buy, how to activate your eSIM, and why it might be a better choice than local prepaid SIM cards.

Summary Of The Best eSIMs In Philippines

eSIM	Data Coverage	Coverage Duration	Price Range
Jetpac	1GB, 3GB, 5GB, 10GB, 15GB, 20GB, 30GB, 40GB, 50GB	4 days, 7 days, 30 days	USD 1 – USD 25
Maaltalk	1GB, 2GB	Customisable	USD 1.84 – USD 51.29
Orbit Mobile	1GB, 3GB, 5GB, 10GB, 20 GB	30 days	USD 3 – USD 27
Saily	1 GB, 3 GB, 7 GB, 15 GB, 20 GB	7 days, 30 days	USD 3.99 – USD 23.99
Airalo	1 GB, 2 GB, 3 GB, 5 GB, 10 GB, 20 GB	7 days, 15 days, 30 days	USD 4.50 – USD 32
Holafly	Unlimited	Customisable	Starting from USD 6.90

 7-Day eSIM Comparison in Philippines

Let’s say you’re heading on a one week trip to the Philippines. Here’s what the main eSIM options look like:

eSIM	Plan	Price	Data	Price per GB
Maaltalk	7 days	USD 13.98	2 GB/ day	USD 1.9/ day
Saily	30 days	USD 15.99	10 GB	USD 1.5/ GB
Airalo	7 days	USD 18	10 GB	USD 1.80/ GB
Orbit Mobile	30 days	USD 18.50	10 GB	USD 1.85/ GB
Jetpac	30 days	USD 29.99	10 GB	USD 3/ GB
Holafly	7 days	USD 29.90	Unlimited	USD 4.27/ day

Maaltalk – I chose this one for my own week in the Philippines because 2GB/day gives you a nice sweet spot — you can navigate with Google Maps, upload Stories, reply on WhatsApp, check restaurant reviews, and still have enough left for a bit of scrolling before bed.

And compared to providers that give you one lump sum of 5GB or 7GB, MaalTalk’s daily allowance feels a lot less stressful. You start fresh at midnight, so even if you accidentally binge TikTok one night in Boracay (guilty), you get full speed again the next day.

If you want the most affordable yet genuinely reliable option for a short trip to the Philippines, MaalTalk’s 7-day plan is honestly hard to beat. 

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Saily – One of the most cheapest option, Saily works well in major urban areas like Makati, Ortigas, and Cebu City.

Saily is data-only, so calls and texts run through apps like WhatsApp, Signal, or Viber, which is already how most travellers communicate. You can also share hotspot data freely, which came in handy when working remotely or travelling with someone who needed quick access.

Another reason I like Saily for longer stays in the Philippines is the easy top-up system. If you start running low, you can add more data directly in the app, and the new plan automatically kicks in once your current one ends. 

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Airalo – At USD 18 for 10 GB (USD 1.80 per GB), Airalo is a dependable option for travellers who want a fuss-free eSIM with good coverage across major Philippine cities.

I’ve relied on Airalo many times in Manila, Cebu, and Davao, and it consistently performs well for everyday use like maps, messaging, and social media. I’ve used Airalo many times, and it’s super reliable. However, it can add up quickly if you’re a heavy data user. Still, it’s a solid choice for short stays.

Orbit Mobile – For 30 days, Orbit Mobile gives you 10 GB for USD 18.50, which comes to USD 1.85 per GB, extremely competitive for the Philippines.

I tested Orbit Mobile across Manila, Bohol, Cebu, and Siargao, and what stood out was how steady the signal stayed even when hopping between islands. 

If you’re looking for an affordable, reliable option that performs consistently in both cities and tourist-heavy coastal areas, Orbit Mobile is one of the best-balanced picks. 

Use code BATW10 to get 10% off your Orbit Mobile purchase. 

Jetpac – Jetpac’s 30-day plan costs USD 29.99 for 10 GB, which works out to USD 3 per GB — noticeably higher than the other providers. That said, Jetpac remains a decent option if you prefer a straightforward setup and occasional use.

During my testing, it performed well for daily essentials like WhatsApp, checking ferry schedules, and browsing restaurant reviews. It’s reliable, but given the price per GB, it’s better suited for lighter users rather than heavy streamers or digital nomads. 

Holafly – If you’re someone who loves streaming or constantly staying connected, Holafly is hard to beat. For USD 29.90, you get unlimited data for 7 days, and that’s a relief when you don’t have to worry about data limits.

I’ve used Holafly during my travels, and it was great for checking emails, maps, and video calls.

The downside? It’s on the pricier side, but if you’re planning to work or stream while on the go, it’s worth the investment. Also, keep in mind, you can’t hotspot your laptop, which could be a dealbreaker for some.

30-Day eSIM Comparison in Philippines

If you’re spending 30 days exploring the Philippines, whether you’re working from a café in Makati or exploring Cebu, not to mention Cebu also got lots of great places to stay, you’ll need an eSIM plan that keeps you connected without running out of data. Here’s the breakdown:

eSIM	Plan	Price	Data	Price per GB
Saily	30 days	USD 23.99	20 GB	USD 2.40/ GB
Orbit Mobile	30 days	USD 27	20 GB	USD 1.35/ GB
Airalo	30 days	USD 30	20 GB	USD 1.50/ GB
Maaltalk	30 days	USD 51.29	2 GB/ day	USD 1.7/ day
Jetpac	30 days	USD 55	20 GB	USD 2.75/ GB
Holafly	30 days	USD 74.90	Unlimited	USD 2.50/ day

Saily – Their 20 GB plan at USD 23.99 works out to USD 1.20 per GB, making it one of the best-value options for a full month on the road.

I used Saily while moving between Manila, Cebu, Siargao, and Palawan, and what I appreciated most was how hands-off it felt. Once the eSIM was set up, it activated automatically on arrival and stayed connected without me needing to touch any settings. Data speeds were consistently good for navigation, booking transport, messaging, and uploading photos and short videos — even when bouncing between islands.

The hotspot feature was a big plus. I regularly shared data with my laptop to plan ferries, update bookings, and work remotely from cafés and guesthouses where Wi-Fi was either slow or unreliable.

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Orbit Mobile – For this one, Orbit Mobile is my top recommendation. Their 20 GB plan at USD 27 works out to just USD 1.35 per GB, making it both affordable and reliable.

I used it extensively while exploring Manila, hopping between the beaches of Cebu, and even exploring more remote destinations like Siargao, Coron, and Bohol’s countryside. The connection stayed solid for maps, social media, messaging, and even uploading photos and videos from stunning locations like the Chocolate Hills and Kawasan Falls.

The plan also supports hotspot use, which came in handy when I needed to share data with my laptop while planning inter-island travel.

For travellers who want a cost-effective, dependable eSIM that works across both bustling cities and harder-to-reach islands, Orbit Mobile strikes the perfect balance between convenience, affordability, and coverage.

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Jetpac – I tried it out on a shorter trip, and I was impressed with the value. It’s one of the cheaper options if you’re using moderate data, like checking maps, browsing, and sending some emails. If you need a bit more data flexibility without breaking the bank, Jetpac is a solid choice.

Airalo – I’ve used Airalo on multiple long trips, and the data is always reliable. The coverage is good, and the app makes managing the plan hassle-free. It’s not the cheapest, but for the price, it’s totally worth it for consistent service and easy top-ups. Perfect for those who want a no-fuss option with solid support.

Maaltalk – For USD 51.29, you get 2GB of high-speed data every single day, which is more than enough for travellers who rely on Maps, WhatsApp, emails, hotspotting for quick work tasks, and the occasional social uploads. Since the data resets daily, you never have to ration your usage or worry about burning through your entire allowance too fast.

Maaltalk runs on 5G roaming networks in the Philippines with speeds of up to 200Mbps, so whether you’re exploring Manila, hopping between Cebu cafes, or island-hopping around Palawan, you’re covered with stable connectivity.

Hotspotting works well too, making it ideal for digital nomads or travellers who need reliability on the go.

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Holafly provides unlimited data for USD 74.90. It sounds like a dream if you’re constantly on the move or working remotely, but it’s definitely on the pricier side. I’ve tried it when I was in the Philippines, and I loved not having to worry about running out of data. However, keep in mind you can’t hotspot with it, so if you need that feature for your laptop, it might not be the best fit. For those who just need data and don’t mind the price, it’s a good choice.

eSIM I Recommend For Philippines

For staying connected while travelling in the Philippines, I found Orbit Mobile to be a solid choice.

During a 30-day trip, I opted for their 20 GB plan at USD 27, which works out to around USD 1.35 per GB—affordable enough without feeling like you’re skimping on connectivity.

I used Orbit Mobile across several destinations, from the bustling streets of Manila to the quiet beaches of Siargao, the turquoise waters of Coron, and even the countryside around Bohol. Setup was simple: I purchased the plan online, scanned the QR code, and I was online within minutes. No complicated instructions, no waiting at a store—just immediate connection.

The coverage held up surprisingly well in both cities and more remote areas. I could video call friends while wandering through Intramuros, navigate the backstreets of Cebu City to find a local café, and even stream short videos from the ferry to Malapascua without any hiccups. Hotspotting my laptop worked reliably too, which made planning inter-island trips and checking ferry schedules much easier.

One moment that stood out was when I was hiking to the top of Osmeña Peak in Cebu. Even up in the hills, Orbit Mobile kept me connected enough to check Google Maps and share a few photos. Another highlight was while snorkelling in Coron – being able to quickly upload shots of the coral reefs without worrying about running out of data was a huge convenience.

They also offer a money-back guarantee, which is reassuring if the eSIM fails to activate or coverage isn’t stable. While Orbit Mobile doesn’t provide unlimited daily refreshes like some other providers, the combination of affordability, solid coverage, and flexibility makes it a reliable choice for travellers who want to stay connected without fuss.

For me, it was a quiet but dependable companion throughout the trip, keeping everything from navigation to sharing travel moments simple and stress-free.

Use code BATW10 to get 10% off your Orbit Mobile purchase.

Order an Orbit Mobile eSIM for Philippines here!

eSIM I Don’t Recommend For Philippines

I don’t think Holafly is a bad eSIM — it does what it promises — but based on my experience, it’s just not the best value for the Philippines.

Holafly’s biggest downside is its pricing. For example, their 30-day plan costs around USD 74.90  — which is more than double what other providers like Airalo or Jetpac charge. And unlike most eSIMs, Holafly’s data is unlimited but not shareable, meaning you can’t use it as a personal hotspot. That was a dealbreaker for me when I needed to tether my laptop for work or upload videos on the go.

On the bright side, the setup is easy — their QR code activation works smoothly, and customer support responds fairly quickly. However, I noticed that the connection speed can dip once you move outside major cities like Manila or Cebu. Since Holafly partners with the Globe network, coverage is fine in urban areas but patchy on smaller islands or remote towns.

So while Holafly is convenient and beginner-friendly, it’s simply not the most cost-effective choice for travellers in the Philippines. 

Order a Holafly eSIM for the Philippines here

Detailed Comparisons Of eSIMs For Philippines

#1 Orbit Mobile For Philippines

During my trips across the Philippines, from exploring Manila to island-hopping in Palawan, surfing in Siargao, and exploring the countryside of Bohol, I found Orbit Mobile to be one of the most reliable and budget-friendly eSIMs for staying connected.

What makes Orbit Mobile stand out is its global coverage in 190+ countries, rates that are 50–70% cheaper than traditional roaming, and the convenience of using a single eSIM for multiple trips. Activation is instant—just scan the QR code after purchase, and you’re online within two minutes.

Coverage in the Philippines is solid across major cities, popular tourist spots, and even some remote islands.

During my trip, it worked seamlessly while walking through Intramuros in Manila, navigating Cebu City’s backstreets, uploading snorkeling clips from Coron, sharing surfing videos from Cloud 9 in Siargao, and checking maps in Bohol’s countryside.

While 5G is limited, the 4G/LTE speeds were more than enough for navigation, messaging, social media, and light video streaming.

Here’s a quick look at Orbit Mobile’s eSIM plans for the Philippines:

• 1 GB for 30 days: USD 3.00 (USD 3.00/GB)
• 3 GB for 30 days: USD 7.00 (USD 2.33/GB)
• 5 GB for 30 days: USD 10.00 (USD 2.00/GB)
• 10 GB for 30 days: USD 18.50 (USD 1.85/GB)
• 20 GB for 30 days: USD 27.00 (USD 1.35/GB)

For shorter trips or light usage, the 3 GB plan for USD 7 worked perfectly for me – covering navigation, messaging, and social media without any hiccups.

For longer trips or heavier usage, including uploading content and sharing hotspots, the 20 GB plan at USD 27 was excellent value and kept me connected across multiple islands without worrying about running out of data.

Orbit Mobile eSIMs are data-only, so you won’t get a local phone number, but that didn’t affect me since I rely on WhatsApp, iMessage, and other messaging apps.

One thing I liked is their money-back guarantee, which is rare among budget eSIM providers. If the eSIM fails to activate or the connection isn’t reliable, you can get a full refund – giving peace of mind when travelling to new or remote locations.

Whether you’re island-hopping, exploring cities, or venturing into quieter rural areas, Orbit Mobile is affordable, flexible, and reliable, making it my top recommendation for staying connected in the Philippines. 

Use code BATW10 to get 10% off your Orbit Mobile purchase.

Order an Orbit Mobile eSIM for Philippines here! 

#2 Saily eSIM for the Philippines

If you’re looking for the cheapest eSIM that still delivers reliable performance in the Philippines, Saily earns a strong second spot on my list. It’s not just affordable on paper, it’s one of the few budget-friendly eSIMs that actually holds up in real travel conditions.

Saily is developed by the team behind NordVPN, and that background shows in how polished the experience feels.

Setup is simple, activation is automatic when you arrive, and once it’s enabled, you can forget about it and focus on travelling — which is exactly what you want when you’re juggling ferries, flights, and island-hopping schedules.

I activated Saily right after landing in Manila, and within minutes I was online booking transport, navigating the city, and checking accommodation details. It continued to perform well in popular destinations like Boracay and other tourist-heavy areas where reliable data actually matters.

What really makes Saily stand out, and why I rank it #2 – is its price-to-reliability ratio.

Across the plans, Saily offers some of the lowest cost per GB available, yet the connection remained stable enough for maps, messaging apps, social media, Grab, and light content uploads.

While speeds weren’t the fastest I’ve experienced in more remote areas, the consistency in cities and well-travelled destinations was solid.

Saily eSIM Plans for the Philippines:

• 1 GB for 7 days – USD 3.99 (USD 3.99/GB)
• 3 GB for 30 days – USD 7.99 (USD 2.66/GB)
• 5 GB for 30 days – USD 11.99 (USD 2.40/GB)
• 10 GB for 30 days – USD 15.19 (USD 1.52/GB)
• 20 GB for 30 days – USD 23.99 (USD 1.20/GB)

Another big plus is how easy it is to manage data inside the app. You can top up instantly if you’re running low, and your new plan activates automatically once the current one finishes. There’s also an auto top-up option if you want everything handled in the background.

Saily is data-only, so calls and texts run through apps like WhatsApp, Telegram, and Signal, which is how most travellers communicate anyway. On top of that, features like built-in ad blocking and web protection add a nice extra layer of security when you’re connecting from cafes, hostels, or public Wi-Fi.

Customer support was another reason I felt comfortable ranking Saily highly. Their 24/7 live chat responded quickly when I had a question, which is reassuring when your internet connection is your lifeline on the road.

If your priority is keeping costs low while still staying reliably connected across the Philippines, Saily easily earns its spot as one of the best-value eSIMs available right now.

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Order a Saily eSIM for Philippines here!

#3 Jetpac eSIM For Philippines

If you’re on the lookout for an eSIM provider that offers a solid balance between affordability and reliable data, Jetpac is definitely worth considering.

While it doesn’t offer unlimited data plans, I found that the pricing is really competitive, especially if you’re watching your budget. I’ve tested it out for my recent travels in the Philippines, and I’ve got all the details to share with you.

• 1 GB data for 4 days = USD 1
• 3 GB data for 7 days = USD 11
• 5 GB data for 30 days = USD 12
• 10 GB data for 30 days = USD 22
• 15 GB data for 30 days = USD 25
• 20 GB data for 30 days = USD 28
• 30 GB data for 30 days = USD 45
• 40 GB data for 30 days = USD 60

During my last visit, I opted for the 5 GB plan, and it lasted me pretty comfortably throughout my stay, although I did have to manage my usage a bit.

Jetpac is known for providing eSIMs across Southeast Asia, and its coverage in the Philippines is impressive. I was connected through 4G or LTE with ease, and the network reliability was solid, even when I ventured out of the major cities.

It works with local carriers, and I didn’t experience any issues in tourist spots or more remote areas like Boracay or Palawan. In fact, I appreciated how smooth my connection was when exploring these areas, where sometimes other eSIMs can struggle to maintain a decent signal.

One thing to note is that Jetpac’s eSIMs are data-only. So, if you’re someone who likes to use their phone for calls or SMS, this may not be ideal. I personally rely on WhatsApp and other messaging apps, so it didn’t bother me much, but it’s something to keep in mind.

Jetpac’s eSIMs are also 5G-ready, so if you’re in a location that offers 5G, you’ll notice much faster speeds, which is a bonus for anyone who does a lot of uploading or streaming.

The downside, however, is that while the network coverage is solid, there’s also a Fair Usage Policy (FUP) that comes into play after you’ve used a certain amount of data. It wasn’t a huge deal, but it’s something to consider if you plan on using the eSIM extensively every day.

One of the coolest features that Jetpac offers is free lounge access if your flight is delayed – something I didn’t personally need but could be a lifesaver if you find yourself stuck at the airport.

They also offer a free VPN service, which is perfect for anyone concerned about online security while travelling. It’s a nice bonus, and definitely something I appreciated having during my travels.

If you’re curious about Jetpac eSIMs and how they stack up for travel, I’ve got you covered! I’ve tested it firsthand and shared all the details in my Jetpac eSIM review.

For those of us who mainly use data for messaging apps and internet browsing, Jetpac definitely gets the job done – just be mindful of the data limits and slower speeds once you hit the fair use threshold.

Order a Jetpac eSIM for the Philippines here! 

#4 Maaltalk eSIM For The Philippines

If you’re planning a trip to the Philippines and want an eSIM that keeps you connected without the usual SIM card hassle, Maaltalk’s Philippines eSIM is a convenient option.

Whether you’re navigating the streets of Manila, catching a Grab ride in Cebu City, or sharing sunset photos from Boracay or El Nido, it provides fast, reliable data and a stress-free setup.

The eSIM runs on Globe/Smart 5G roaming networks, 2 of the country’s largest carriers, so coverage is generally solid in major cities and popular tourist destinations.

During my trip moving between Manila, Cebu, and Palawan, I could easily use Google Maps, coordinate rides, and upload photos.

That said, in more remote islands or less-developed areas, speeds sometimes dropped to LTE — not a deal-breaker, but something to keep in mind if you rely on streaming or heavy tethering.

Here’s how the plans are priced:

1GB/day Plan

• USD 1.84 for 1 day (USD 1.84/day)
• USD 32.68 for 30 days (USD 1.09/day)

Ideal for short-term travellers, weekend trips, or those who mainly use messaging apps, maps, and social media.

Perfect for travellers staying in one city or splitting their time between 2 destinations.

2GB/day Plan

• USD 2.87 for 1 day (USD 2.87/day)
• USD 51.29 for 30 days (USD 1.71/day)

Best for travellers who post photos and short videos, make calls via WhatsApp or Zoom, or need more daily data.

Suitable for longer stays, multi-city itineraries, or remote work on the go.

Another reason I stuck with Maaltalk is how simple it is to get online. You pick your activation date, at least a day before travel, enter your device info, and you’re ready to go.

Even better, if you run out of data mid-trip, you can recharge directly through the app without reinstalling anything. That might sound small, but trust me, when you’re on the go in a place like Palawan or Cebu, not having to redo a complicated setup is a huge relief.

Maaltalk also has a few thoughtful extras that stood out to me.

Source

The app tracks your usage and speed, so you know how much data you’ve consumed in real time. There’s even a feature that suggests the best plan for your trip based on your needs, and using it gives you a small discount automatically. It’s not gimmicky; it genuinely makes planning and saving a bit easier.

A few minor downsides: the app’s advanced features need an internet connection, so offline access isn’t possible, and hotspot support isn’t available on all plans. Also, if it’s your first time picking a plan, the variety can feel a little overwhelming, though the app’s AI suggestion tool makes that much easier.

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Order a Maaltalk eSIM for Philippines here

#5 Airalo eSIM For Philippines

What stands out most about Airalo is the ease of use. Whether you’re flying into Manila or heading to a quieter destination like Siargao, having your eSIM set up and ready to go the moment you arrive is a total game-changer.

But of course, like with anything, there are a few things to keep in mind.

You can check out our detailed review on Airalo here.

While Airalo’s coverage is impressive in most places like Cebu, Davao, and Boracay, I did notice slower speeds when I ventured into more rural spots, like parts of Palawan. In the cities, though? A smooth, uninterrupted connection.

Here’s a quick look at Airalo’s eSIM plans for the Philippines:

• 1 GB for 7 days: USD 4.50
• 2 GB for 15 days: USD 7
• 3 GB for 30 days: USD 9.50
• 5 GB for 30 days: USD 13
• 10 GB for 30 days: USD 21
• 20 GB for 30 days: USD 32

For a short trip, I love the 10 GB for 30 days plan, which cost me just USD 21. It provided enough data for my navigation and even streaming some content in the evenings.

If you’re staying longer or need more data, the 20 GB for 30 days plan at USD 32 is also great value, especially if you are a heavier user of data for online browsing..

Plus, with Airalo’s coverage on Globe’s 4G/LTE network, I found the speeds to be pretty solid in most places, so this plan is a good bet for digital nomads or anyone who needs to stay connected without worrying about running out of data.

One thing to note: Airalo’s eSIMs for the Philippines are data-only. This means no calls or SMS, which wasn’t a big deal for me since I usually use messaging apps like WhatsApp to stay in touch.

The eSIM activation works within a month of purchase, and it kicks off as soon as you connect to a supported network. It’s also super easy to extend if you need to top up or get a new plan. Though I’ve had a couple of instances where it wasn’t as seamless as I’d hoped, but buying a new plan through the Airalo app is still quick.

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Order Airalo eSIM for Philippines here

#6 Holafly eSIM For Philippines

Holafly is another popular eSIM provider that, unlike others, offers unlimited data eSIMs. While it sounds great on the surface, there’s a catch: they have a Fair Use Policy (FUP), which means your data speeds could be slowed down if you use too much data within a certain time frame.

Personally, I’ve had mixed experiences with this eSIM, so I wanted to share a bit about what I found, the good and the bad, so you can decide if it’s the right fit for your Philippines trip.

First, let’s talk about the plans. Holafly offers a range of options, which is a significant advantage over many other eSIM providers that limit you to only a few options like 7, 10, or 30 days. This means you can tailor your duration to your needs, avoid wasting data or spending more than you need.

Here are the Holafly unlimited data eSIM plans for Philippines:

• 1 day ‘unlimited’ data = USD 6
• 2 days ‘unlimited’ data = USD 10
• 3 days ‘unlimited’ data = USD 13
• 4 days ‘unlimited’ data = USD 16
• 5 days ‘unlimited’ data = USD 21
• 6 days ‘unlimited’ data = USD 25
• 7 days ‘unlimited’ data = USD 29
• 8 days ‘unlimited’ data = USD 31
• 9 days ‘unlimited’ data = USD 35
• 10 days ‘unlimited’ data = USD 37
• 11 days ‘unlimited’ data = USD 40
• 14 days ‘unlimited’ data = USD 48
• 20 days ‘unlimited’ data = USD 64
• 30 days ‘unlimited’ data = USD 75

The Holafly eSIMs work on the 4G/LTE/5G networks of Smart and Globe, which are the two major mobile networks in the Philippines. So theoretically, you should get solid coverage in most urban and tourist areas.

I definitely had no issues with coverage in places like Manila and Boracay, but here’s where the FUP came into play: once I used a fair bit of data, my speeds were noticeably slower.

This is what I found frustrating. The data would slow down for an entire day, even when I hadn’t really done anything extreme. I understand that there are limits to “unlimited” data, but it felt unpredictable and could throw a wrench in plans when you really need reliable internet.

Another downside, at least for me, was the data-only limitation. You can’t make calls or send SMS messages with Holafly, and there’s no phone number associated with the eSIM. I’ve gotten used to using data for most of my communication via apps like WhatsApp or Skype, so this wasn’t a huge deal, but it’s still something to be mindful of if you plan to use your phone for regular calls or texts.

Additionally, Holafly allows mobile hotspot usage, but it’s capped at 500 MB per day. While that’s more than enough for casual browsing or social media, it’s not enough for me to use the hotspot for my heavy work and multiple devices.

If you’re mainly staying in well-connected tourist areas and don’t mind the chance of slower speeds after using a certain amount of data, it could be a solid choice for you.

Order a Holafly eSIM for the Philippines here!

Choosing The Best eSIM For Philippines

What Is The Cheapest eSIM For The Philippines?

If you’re comparing eSIMs purely on price, Saily currently offers the cheapest option for the Philippines that still makes sense for real travel use.

The biggest reason is cost per GB.

On longer plans, especially the 20 GB for 30 days option, Saily drops to around USD 1.20 per GB, which is among the lowest rates available for the Philippines. This makes a noticeable difference if you’re staying a few weeks, working remotely, or moving between islands where Wi-Fi isn’t always dependable.

Another factor is where the data actually works well. Saily performs best in major cities and popular tourist destinations, exactly where most travellers spend their time. In places like Manila, Cebu, and Boracay, the connection is stable enough for maps, ride-hailing apps, online payments, messaging, and social media without constantly worrying about signal loss.

Saily also keeps costs down by being data-only, which suits modern travel habits.

Most travellers already rely on WhatsApp, Telegram, or iMessage, so you’re not paying extra for features you won’t use. On top of that, the ability to top up directly in the app means you don’t have to overbuy data upfront “just in case.”

If your goal is to spend as little as possible while still staying reliably connected across the Philippines, Saily offers the best balance of affordability, coverage, and ease of use, making it the cheapest eSIM that still feels practical for everyday travel.

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Order a Saily eSIM for Philippines here! 

Most Reliable eSIM for Remote Areas in Philippines

If you’re planning to explore the more remote parts of the Philippines, like Siargao, Palawan, or the countryside of Bohol, Orbit Mobile is the reliable eSIM I can vouch for.

Strong Network Coverage

Orbit Mobile leverages major local providers, including Globe and Smart, which together cover most of the Philippines. While 5G is mostly limited to urban areas, the 4G LTE coverage is impressive even on smaller islands. During my travels, it worked seamlessly for navigation, messaging, checking emails, and staying active on social media.

Works in Rural Areas

During trips to El Nido, Coron, and even the more remote parts of Siargao, Orbit Mobile kept me connected when Wi-Fi was sparse or nonexistent. While extremely remote locations may see slightly weaker signal, it was always reliable enough to check Google Maps, confirm ferry schedules, and look up local attractions.

Data-Only Focus

Orbit Mobile is a data-only service, which is ideal if you use apps like WhatsApp, Messenger, or iMessage for communication. I relied on it for booking tours, coordinating with local guides, and even sharing surfing clips from Cloud 9 without needing a traditional phone number.

Personal Experience

One moment that stood out was during a trip to Palawan, where I needed to quickly find directions to a hidden waterfall. Orbit Mobile’s connection never let me down, even in areas with minimal coverage. It wasn’t always lightning-fast in the most isolated spots, but it reliably got the job done when I needed it most.

For travellers venturing off the beaten path in the Philippines, Orbit Mobile offers a cost-effective, reliable, and flexible solution. Its combination of local network partnerships, solid 4G coverage, and easy setup makes it my top recommendation for staying connected in rural and remote areas without overpaying.

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Order an Orbit Mobile eSIM for Philippines here!  

How To Get An eSIM For Philippines

Not to be biased, but purchasing an eSIM online is what I always do. Aside from it being the most hassle-free way to stay connected, it also lets you secure your mobile data before even setting foot in the country.

I’ve used providers like Airalo and Holafly while travelling in the Philippines, and each has its own set of benefits and offerings. Here’s how I usually go about getting an eSIM for my trips there:

1. Choose Your Provider: When selecting a provider, I recommend comparing options like Airalo, Nomad, and Holafly based on your travel needs. If you’re staying in major cities or tourist areas, coverage is generally great, but if you’re heading to more remote destinations, you’ll want to check coverage maps and reviews to make sure your provider has strong service. 
2. Select Your Plan: Once you’ve chosen a provider, it’s time to pick a data plan. Most platforms have detailed descriptions of each plan, so you can pick one based on how long you’ll be in the Philippines and how much data you typically use. On my last trip, I went with Nomad’s 5 GB for 30 days at $10, which worked perfectly for my usual needs – checking emails, mapping out places to visit, and using apps like Grab and Google Maps. The plans vary in size, ranging from 1 GB for 7 days to 50 GB for 30 days.
3. Make Your Purchase: After choosing the right plan, you can easily buy it through the provider’s app or website. I’ve found that the process is very straightforward. Whether you’re using Airalo or Nomad, it’s as simple as selecting your plan, entering payment details, and confirming your order.
4. Receive Your eSIM: After the purchase, you’ll receive a QR code or activation link via email or directly through the app. This is one of the main reasons I love eSIMs – they’re instant. You don’t have to wait around for delivery, and you can get everything sorted before even boarding your flight.
5. Activate Your eSIM: Once you’ve received the QR code or link, follow the provider’s easy step-by-step instructions to install the eSIM on your phone. This part is usually quick and seamless. As soon as your phone connects to the local network (which often happens as soon as you land), your data starts working. No more worrying about SIM cards or roaming charges.

Key Advantages: One of the best things about eSIMs is that you’re fully connected from the moment you arrive in the Philippines. Whether you need to order a Grab ride from the airport, look up local recommendations, or check the route to your accommodation, you’ll have mobile data in seconds. It’s also great for sharing your arrival with family or friends, as you’re never left without a way to communicate.

In terms of data options, Holafly offers unlimited data plans, which are a great choice if you expect to use a lot of data for video streaming or heavy social media use.

FAQs About eSIMs In The Philippines