The Best eSIMs for International Travel (2025 Guide)

Never pay hefty roaming fees again.

Whether you're a solo traveler, a digital nomad, or a family heading abroad — eSIMs are your best travel buddy.

What is an eSIM?

An eSIM (Embedded SIM) is a digital SIM built into your phone. You can switch networks, get data plans abroad, and avoid physical SIM swapping — directly from your device.

No need to find a local SIM
Activate before or after arrival
Manage multiple countries from one app

Top eSIM Providers for International Travel (2025)

Let’s break down the top-rated eSIMs trusted by travelers worldwide.

1. Airalo

Best for: Budget travelers & first-timers
Coverage: 200+ countries
App rating: ⭐ 4.7 (iOS) / ⭐ 4.6 (Android)

Plans start at $4.50 (1 GB for 7 days)
Local, regional (Asia, Europe), and global eSIMs

Easy-to-use app & instant activation

Pros:

Super cheap starter plans
Excellent coverage
24/7 customer support

Cons:

No voice calls/SMS (data-only)

2. Holafly

Best for: Unlimited data lovers
Coverage: 160+ countries
App rating: ⭐ 4.7 (iOS) / ⭐ 4.5 (Android)

Unlimited data plans (from $19 for 5 days in Europe)
QR code or in-app installation

24/7 WhatsApp support

Pros:

Unlimited data (no cap!)
Great for streamers & remote workers

Cons:

No tethering/hotspot in some countries
Pricier than others

3. Nomad

Best for: Frequent flyers & region-hoppers
Coverage: 165+ countries
App rating: ⭐ 4.6 (iOS) / ⭐ 4.4 (Android)

Regional eSIMs (Asia, Europe, North America)
Plans from $6.50 for 1 GB

Discounts on bundles

Pros:

Competitive pricing
Great for Asia & US
Supports 5G in select countries

Cons:

Slightly complex UI for new users

4. Ubigi

Best for: Business travelers & long-term stays
Coverage: 190+ countries
App rating: ⭐ 4.5 (iOS) / ⭐ 4.2 (Android)

Monthly plans with rollover
Global plans from $9 for 500 MB

Offers voice & SMS in some plans

Pros:

Business-ready
Can be used in vehicles (cars with eSIM)
Good for IoT travelers

Cons:

Smaller data packs are expensive

5. BNESIM

Best for: Customization & long-term travelers
Coverage: 200+ countries
App rating: ⭐ 4.3 (iOS) / ⭐ 4.1 (Android)

Flexible pay-as-you-go
Voice & SMS supported

eSIM + travel services (VPN, translator)

Pros:

Great flexibility
Includes travel tools
Voice, data & virtual number available

Cons:

UI isn’t the most modern
Confusing pricing tiers

Quick Comparison Chart

eSIM	Best For	Data Type	Voice/SMS	Starts At	Regions
Airalo	Budget travel	Data-only	❌	$4.50	200+ countries
Holafly	Unlimited usage	Unlimited data	❌	$19	160+ countries
Nomad	Multi-region trips	Data-only	❌	$6.50	165+ countries
Ubigi	Business trips	Data + voice	✅	$9	190+ countries
BNESIM	Custom usage	Data + voice	✅	Varies	200+ countries

Things to Check Before Buying

eSIM Compatibility: Check if your phone supports eSIM (iPhone XS or newer, Samsung Galaxy S20+, Pixel 4+).
Local Laws: Some countries (e.g., China) restrict eSIM usage.
Hotspot Feature: Some plans don’t allow data sharing.
Download Before You Fly: You’ll need internet to activate — do it before takeoff!