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eSIMs have completely changed the game for international travel. Gone are the days of hunting for WiFi hotspots, swapping traditional physical SIM cards, or dealing with sticker SIMs. With eSIM technology, your smartphone can be set up in minutes with a digital SIM card, giving you mobile data and internet access anywhere without the usual hassle.
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Whether you’re using an iPhone, Samsung, Google Pixel, or Android tablet, eSIMs offer the flexibility to have dual SIMs, manage multiple eSIM profiles, and enjoy convenience while traveling across the USA, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Mexico, or Japan.
We’ve compared some popular global 10GB plans, as well as country-specific options for Japan, to help digital nomads and international travelers find the best eSIM plan.
Here’s what you need to know about each provider, from setup instructions to compatibility, carriers, and mobile data limits.
What You’ll Get Out Of This Article
This epic guide has everything you need to know about eSIMs and how to find the best one for your travels. It includes:
- Compare 10 of the best eSIM providers for international travel, including global and country-specific options.
- You’ll see a breakdown of pricing, data limits, and plan duration to help you pick the right eSIM for your trip.
- We highlight which eSIMs work best in the USA, Japan, Canada, Australia, and more.
- Investigate the pros and cons of each provider, including speed, reliability, and customer support.
- Learn how to set up an eSIM and use it alongside your physical SIM for hassle-free mobile data while traveling.
- Whether you’re a digital nomad or planning a short vacation, you’ll know which eSIMs give the best value, flexibility, and convenience.
The Best eSIMs For Hassle-Free Travel
Image via Flickr by Sajjan singChoosing the right eSIM can make all the difference for your international roaming experience. With so many providers offering global and country-specific plans, it’s important to consider factors like compatibility with your smartphone, data limits, network carriers, and the convenience of activating your digital SIM card.
Here’s a breakdown of the top eSIM providers to help you find the best eSIM plan for your next trip.
TOP TRAVEL TIPS
- Where to stay – We use Booking.com for all of our stays and use the Genius discount to get great deals on our hotel bookings. Alternatively, you can always see if hotel corporate codes might work for you.
- Car rentals – Often having a rental car always makes life easier and allows you to travel at your own pace. Make sure you know about ways to save money with car rental coupon codes and always start your search with Discover Cars and RentalCars so you know what the best deals are.
- Flights – Use the Skyscanner “Everywhere” feature to find the best deals to your destination from your local airport. Check how much it would be for you to get to your next vacation!
- Insurance – Not always required but always recommended! Make sure you’re covered with the best travel insurance. Our go-to is always HeyMondo for good all-around coverage at reasonable prices, also if you use our link, you automatically get 5% discount.
- Hottest deals – Never be without our frequently updated travel deals page.
eSIM Pricing: What You Need To Know
When it comes to choosing the best eSIM plan, price is just one factor – but it’s an important one. We compared a variety of global 10GB packages to see which providers offer the most value.
From affordable options for short-term travel to longer-term data roaming solutions, these eSIMs provide flexibility, convenience, and hassle-free mobile data without the need for a traditional physical SIM card.
Here’s a breakdown of what each provider charges:
- Airalo: Global – 10GB: $57 – 20GB: $66
- Alosim: No global option, Europe 10GB – $37
- Amigo SIM: Global – 10GB for 30 days – $35 (best in class)
- Eskimo: Global – 10GB – $39
- eSIMX: No global option, Europe 12GB – $19.80
- Flexiroam: Global – 10GB – $108
- Gigsky: Global – 10GB – $109.99
- Holafly: Tailored unlimited packages only
- KnowRoaming: Global – 20GB – $60
- Ubigi: Global – 10GB – $79
The table below is a compilation of the top eSIM companies that we’re tracking. While they don’t cover every single region, destination, and data package, it gives you a really good indication of who has the best price.
Note that all prices below are in $USD. Also, the default for global plans is 180 days and country/region plans are 30 days unless otherwise indicated.
TIP: Click on the headers to sort the table although we have to admit that it’s not perfect.
Exploring Your eSIM Options
Not all eSIMs are created equal, plans vary by data allowance, duration, coverage, and compatibility with different smartphones and tablets. Whether you’re looking for a global plan, a regional option, or a country-specific package, we have a quick breakdown of the top eSIM providers and what they offer:
1. Airalo
Airalo is one of the most popular eSIM providers for international travel. Compatible with iPhone, Android, and dual SIM devices, it allows you to activate your eSIM profile hassle-free. Their app and support team make setup simple, and it’s ideal for digital nomads looking for reliable mobile data without swapping physical SIM cards.
- Pricing:
- Global: 10GB – $57
- Europe: 10GB – $37
- Asia: 10GB – $37
- USA: 10GB – $23
- Japan: 10GB – $18
- Spain: 10GB – $15.50
- France: 10GB – $16
- Australia: 10GB – $18
- Pros: Reliable service, intuitive app, excellent customer support.
- Cons: Slightly pricier than some competitors, mostly 4G/LTE.
- How to save with Airalo: Use code WILLIA9500 for $3 credit on your first purchase.
2. AloSim
AloSIM is a simple option for travelers, compatible with most smartphones and tablets, it can sometimes offer 5G depending on the network. Activation via eSIM QR code is straightforward.
- Pricing:
- Global: None
- Europe: 10GB – $37
- Asia: 10GB – $37
- USA: 10GB – $26
- Japan: 10GB – $18
- Spain: 10GB – $18
- France: 10GB – $23
- Australia: 10GB – $20
- Pros: Affordable, sometimes supports 5G depending on network.
- Cons: No global plans, speed may vary.
- How to save with AloSim: Use code GOINGAWESOMEPLACES for 15% off your first order.
3. Amigo SIM
We hadn’t heard about Amigo SIM before our research but turns out they have some really good prices, especially if you use our discount code.
We found that they have access to unique plans with calling because for some countries, they partner with Three in the UK. The downfall is that this gives you a UK number, but you’ll be able to call and text.
- Pricing:
- Global: 10GB for 30 days – $35 (best in class)
- Europe: 12GB – $20
- Asia: 10GB – $37
- USA: 12GB – $20
- Japan: 10GB – $28
- Spain: 12GB – $20
- France: 12GB – $20
- Australia: 12GB – $20
- Pros: They are one of the few eSIM companies that also provide calling as well in some cases and they have access to 5G.
- Cons: Any eSIMs that use the Three UK network, you’ll get a UK number.
- How to save with Amigo SIM: Use code GOINGAWESOMEPLACES for 25% off your first order.
4. Eskimo
Eskimo offers long-duration plans that make it perfect for digital nomads or extended trips. Ideal for Apple, Samsung, and Google Pixel users who want a single phone number active while traveling.
- Pricing:
- Global: 10GB – $39
- Europe: 10GB – $39
- Asia: 10GB – $39
- USA: 10GB – $24
- Japan: 10GB – $25
- Spain: 10GB – $39
- France: 10GB – $35
- Australia: 10GB – $18
- Pros: Very long validity, affordable, compatible with most devices.
- Cons: Speeds limited to 4G/LTE; setup instructions may be less detailed.
5. eSIMX
eSIMX provides flexible international roaming options with a user-friendly interface. The discount code ESIMX10 gives 10% off all plans, making their already cheap plans even better. This is a great budget-friendly choice for frequent travelers.
- Pricing:
- Global: None
- Europe: 12GB – $19.80
- Asia: Only offers 5GB – $18.80
- USA: 10GB – $8.80
- Japan: 10GB – $9
- Spain: 10GB – $8.80
- France: 10GB – $8.80
- Australia: 10GB – $9.80
- Pros: Solid all-around service, 10% off with code ESIMX10.
- Cons: Mostly 4G/LTE and limited global data options.
6. Flexiroam
Flexiroam is great for travelers seeking a hassle-free digital SIM card with coverage across many countries. Compatible with iPhone, Android, and tablets, it ensures uninterrupted mobile data for international travel.
What they might be best known for is their partnership with Mastercard. Similar to what Gigsky and KnowRoaming does with Visa, if you have an eligible Mastercard (normally a premium card), you’ll get permanent 20% off and complimentary 3 x 1GB Global Data Plan Valid for 5 Days eSIMs.
- Pricing:
- Global: 10GB – $108
- Europe: 10GB for 3 days – $16.99
- Asia: 10GB for 180 days – $94
- USA: 10GB for 3 days – $12.49
- Japan: 10GB for 3 days – $12.49
- Spain: 10GB for 3 days – $12.49
- France: 10GB for 3 days – $12.49
- Australia: 10GB for 3 days – $12.49
- Pros: Mid-range pricing, decent coverage.
- Cons: 4G/LTE only, app can be slightly clunky.
- How to save with Flexiroam: Use code FLEX20 to save 20% off of your first plan.
7. Gigsky
They’ve taken the industry by storm with their Visa partnership. I originally signed up because I wanted to take advantage of the Visa Benefits. It’s different between different regions and the type of premium Visa card you have but the best part is that you get a complimentary eSIM several times a year.
Make sure to check the Canada Program, USA Program, Caribbean Program and Latin America Program.
- Pricing:
- Global: 10GB – $109.99
- Europe: 10GB – $35.99
- Asia: 10GB – $35.99
- USA: 10GB – $28.99
- Japan: 10GB – $28.99
- Spain: 10GB – $19.99
- France: 10GB – $26.49
- Australia: 10GB – $27.49
- Pros: Their Visa program is a standout especially because for some programs the eSIMs refresh every 6 months. The 20% discount we have also puts their prices closer to par with the competitors.
- Cons: Not necessarily the cheapest in price.
- How to save with Gigsky: Use code GOINGAWESOME to save 20% off of all eSIM orders. Also use TANG149 to get $3 USD when you first sign up.
8. Holafly
We’d be remiss to not mention Holafly. What’s unique about them is that they actually don’t offer any data packages. Instead, they are exclusively unlimited plans and so you essentially choose the destination/region you’re interested in and the number of days you’d like it for.
That’s why we weren’t able to fill out any data for them in this case.
- Pros: Great prices on unlimited data eSIM packages.
- Cons: Some travelers have had bad experiences with them, particularly around getting refunds and the countries that are covered in their regional packages.
- How to save with Holafly: Use code GOINGAWESOMEPLACES to save 5% off of all eSIM orders.
9. KnowRoaming
Known for reusable discount codes and easy setup, KnowRoaming is perfect for travelers who move between countries frequently. Supports dual SIM phones, making it convenient to keep your home number active while using mobile data abroad.
- Pricing:
- Global: 20GB for 60 days – $60
- Europe: 10GB – $35.50
- Asia: 10GB – $37
- USA: 10GB – $22.89
- Japan: 10GB – $17.89
- Spain: 10GB – $15.89
- France: 10GB – $15.50
- Australia: 10GB – $17.89
- Pros: Offers reusable discount code GAP10 and easy activation.
- Cons: 4G/LTE only.
- How to save with KnowRoaming: Use code GAP10 to save 10% off of all eSIM orders.
10. Ubigi
Ubigi stands out with 5G speeds on compatible smartphones like Google Pixel, Samsung, and iPhone. Its plans are ideal for travelers needing fast internet for Google Maps, video calls, or work on the go. Setup is straightforward via the app and eSIM QR code.
- Pricing:
- Global: 10GB for 30 days – $79
- Europe: 10GB – $16
- Asia: 10GB – $44
- USA: 10GB – $14
- Japan: 10GB – $17
- Spain: 10GB – $12
- France: 10GB – $9
- Australia: 10GB – $26
- Pros: One of the few eSIM providers that offer 5G speeds although that is starting to change.
- Cons: Something we experienced in Japan is that our Ubigi SIM seemed to constantly switch between 5G and LTE which led to more of an unstable experience. Their global plans are also crazy expensive.
- How to save with Ubigi: Use code AWESOME10 to save 10% on your first order.
Additional Option
As an Asia-based activity platform, Klook isn’t just for tours and activities – they also offer reliable eSIMs for travelers. With a range of regional and country-specific data plans, Klook makes it easy to stay connected without hunting down a local SIM card. You can purchase and activate directly through the Klook app, compare plans by coverage and duration, and have your eSIM ready before you even land. It’s a hassle-free option that pairs perfectly with booking your activities in the same place and has extremely competitive prices.
Want to see the full breakdown of plans and pricing? Get access to our eSIM Comparison Spreadsheet! It’s the easiest way to compare providers side by side and find the best deal for your trip.
What Should You Look Out For When Choosing An eSIM Company?
When deciding which eSIM to get before your upcoming trip, we have a checklist of things that you should think about.
- Price – This fluctuates a ton in the market so it is worth your time to do your research.
- Number of days – This isn’t consistent either. In most cases it’s 30 days but there are some products that work for fewer number of days. Pay attention to this so there aren’t any surprises.
- Coupon codes – Pretty much every single company will offer discount codes and special codes like the ones that we have. This is money left on the table if you don’t use it.
- Free eSIMs – Many companies including Flexiroam and Gigsky are offering free eSIMs if you have a premium Visa or Mastercard. You might be able to survive a trip or two on these alone.
- Unlimited data – If you’d much rather buy a package that offers unlimited usage for a specified number of days, many offer this including Holafly.
- Brand and reputation – This still counts for something so make sure to search reviews to see if the people have had good or bad experiences with a provider.
So Which eSIM Is The Best?
Image via Flickr by Alpha PhotoWhen examining the table that we’ve provided, you’ll see that there’s really no one easy answer to “who is the best eSIM company”.
When sorting through the different regions and countries, there are a couple of companies that usually come out on top but we also haven’t applied any of the discounts that are offered.
From the eye-test and speaking to travellers, when it comes to the overall experience, including price, reliability, and ease of use, we’ve had the best results with Airalo. Their app is intuitive, their customer support is responsive, and activating an eSIM is straightforward. That said, there is a bit of bias here because they were one of the first players in the market so people are just used to them and they’ve had the longest to refine their experience.
If you’re looking for 5G, Ubigi stands out as one of the few providers consistently offering 5G coverage. AloSim can sometimes reach 5G depending on the network, while all other providers operate on reliable 4G/LTE.
While Ubigi’s 5G is tempting, we didn’t notice a significant performance boost in practice, and the frequent network switching made it slightly less reliable.
Next to those two would be KnowRoaming and eSIMX, which both stand out where their base plan prices are very competitive. And on top, KnowRoaming has a re-useable GAP10 code, and eSIMX with ESIMX10.
Conclusion on best price: Once you actually dive into the data, you realize that Airalo isn’t necessarily the cheapest. Do your research ahead of time and don’t be afraid to try different companies.
To get access to more detailed data, we’re offering access to the full data sheet. All you have to do is sign up to become an Insider.
If Japan is your destination, Klook offers unbeatable value for country-specific plans—just be sure to select their in-house eSIM rather than a reseller’s.
If you are looking for speed Ubigi is the only one that is consistent with offering 5G speeds. AloSim can sometimes be 5G depending on the network it connects with. All others are 4G/LTE.
eSIM Tips For Travellers
Image via Flickr by Ann WoodTo make the most of your eSIM while abroad, here are some essential tips to follow.
- Global and regional plans are always going to be more expensive. Individual countries are going to be better but you may need a regional one if you’re hopping around.
- Make sure to activate your eSIM when you have access to wifi and not when you just land, make use of airport free wifi if you can.
- Unlimited eSIM plans are a bit too good to be true. They aren’t upfront about this but they will slow your speed past a certain amount of daily data usage.
- Look for deals! Airalo had a killer deal on Japan earlier in the year so I banked a bunch for a future trip. You can do this!
Which eSIMs Have Discounts?
The below are a list of all of the eSIM companies that we have a relationship with. These cusotm codes offer you additional discounts.
Pay attention to all plans as these are the codes that can be used multiple times whereas some providers have opted to only allow for discounts on the first order.
- Airalo: Use code WILLIA9500 to get $3 credit for your first purchase.
- KnowRoaming: Use code GAP10 to save 10% on all plans.
- AloSIM: Use code GOINGAWESOMEPLACES to save 15% off your first order.
- Ubigi: Use code AWESOME10 to save 10% on your first order.
- eSIMX: Use code ESIMX10 for 10% off on all plans.
- GigSky: Use code GOINGAWESOME to save 20% on all plans.
- Flexiroam: Use code FLEX20 to save 20% on your first order.
- Holafly: Use code GOINGAWESOMEPLACES to save 5% on all plans.
No matter where your travels take you, choosing the right eSIM can make staying connected hassle-free, so you can focus on exploring instead of worrying about mobile data.
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the best eSIM provider?
While it depends on your needs and destination, Airalo is often the top choice for most travelers thanks to its reliable app, good customer support, and wide range of global and country-specific eSIMs. Ubigi is a strong option if you want consistent 5G speeds, while KnowRoaming and eSIMX offer useful discount codes. For travel to Japan specifically, Klook has unbeatable prices on in-country eSIMs.
What’s the best eSIM for the USA?
For travel to the USA, Airalo is a reliable choice with flexible plans and good customer support. Ubigi is another option if you want 5G speeds on your smartphone. KnowRoaming and eSIMX are also worth considering for their reusable discount codes, while MobiMatter can help you compare multiple providers to find the best plan for your needs.
Which is the best eSIM to use internationally?
For international travel, Airalo stands out thanks to its wide coverage, user-friendly app, and reliable customer support. Ubigi is great if you want consistent 5G speeds across multiple countries. KnowRoaming, eSIMX, and MobiMatter are also excellent options, especially if you’re hopping between regions and want flexibility with mobile data and eSIM profiles.
What is the disadvantage of eSIM?
While eSIMs are convenient and hassle-free, they do have a few drawbacks. Some older smartphones and tablets may not be compatible, meaning you’ll still need a traditional physical SIM card. Switching carriers or devices can be less straightforward than swapping a physical SIM. Additionally, not all countries and carriers support eSIM technology yet, and some unlimited data plans may throttle speeds after a daily limit. Finally, setup requires following instructions carefully, including scanning the eSIM QR code or activating the digital SIM card via your device’s settings.
What is the best eSIM for Japan?
For travel to Japan, several eSIM providers offer affordable and reliable options. Klook is often the cheapest for a Japan-specific plan, offering 10GB for around $11.05 for 30 days. Airalo, eSIMX, and KnowRoaming also provide solid Japan plans, typically 10GB for 30 days, with easy setup and good customer support. When choosing an eSIM for Japan, make sure to check that it’s an official in-country plan and not a reseller, and activate it while you have WiFi access to ensure hassle-free mobile data and smooth access to maps, travel apps, and SMS messages.
Travel Resources For Your Next Trip
If you’re in the process of planning your trip and putting together your itinerary, these are genuinely the best resources that the Going Awesome Places team stands by 100%.
Credit Cards
Don’t get burned by hidden fees on top of terrible exchange rates. When we travel now, we use the Wise Card. Simply load it with the currency you need before you go and use it as a regular VISA or their digital wallet card. Use their free app to track how much you have and top up when you need to.
Flights
In our opinion, of all the booking search engines, Skyscanner is the most helpful and easy to use thanks to their Everywhere feature. Kayak is also another that’s we will often check.
Rideshare
You probably already have accounts but if you don’t, for new Lyft users, use code WILLIAM4825 to get 50% off your first 2 rides (max $10 USD per ride). Offer valid for 14 days after you take your first ride. For new Uber users, use code psuqbjg4d7rn for the same offer except it’s valid for 30 days.
eSIM
eSIM: Lately, we’ve really loved using eSIMs. We’ve tested several over the years and we have access to a few special promotions.
- AmigoSIM – Use GOINGAWESOMEPLACES to save 25% off. Code is re-useable.
- Gigsky – Use TANG149 to get $3 USD when you sign up, then use code GOINGAWESOME to save 20% on all eSIM orders.
- Airalo – Use referral code WILLIA9500 to get $3 USD credit on your first purchase.
- KnowRoaming – Use code GAP10 to save 10%.
- AloSIM – Use code GOINGAWESOMEPLACES to save 15%.
- Ubigi – AWESOME10 to save 10% on your first order.
- Holafly – Use code GOINGAWESOMEPLACES to save 5%.
Wifi Hotspot
We’ve been a huge fan of wifi hotspot devices such as PokeFi (use code GAP24300) because their rates are are hard to beat and it works globally. Solis is another that we recommend. Pros are that you can share the wifi with your whole group but cons are that you have to invest in a device and you have to charge it every night.
Hotels
Our go-to is Booking.com because they have the best inventory of properties including hotels and B&Bs plus they have their Genius tier discounts. Expedia is also worth using especially with their One Key rewards program which is basically like cash. The exception is Asia where Agoda always has the best prices. Always do a quick check on TripAdvisor as well.
Tours and Activities
When planning our trips, we always check both Viator and GetYourGuide to at least see what’s out there in the destination that we’re going to. They often have different offerings and prices so check both.
Travel Insurance
Learn how to buy the best travel insurance for you. This isn’t something you want to travel without.
- HeyMondo – Popular insurance provider for frequent travelers and comes with great coverage and special perks. By booking through our link to get a 5% discount!
- RATESDOTCA – Search engine Canadians looking for the cheapest insurance including multi-trip annual policies.
- SafetyWing – A perfect fit for long-term nomads.
- Medjet – Global air medical transportation.
- InsureMyTrip – Best for seniors, families, and those with pre-existing conditions.
Check Out Our Toolbox
If you need more help planning your trip, make sure to check out our Travel Toolbox where we highlight all of the gear, resources, and tools we use when traveling.
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