Best eSIM Providers for International Travel

For UK travellers, eSIMs simplify staying connected abroad. No more searching for local SIMs or paying high roaming fees. With eSIMs, you can download a plan online, activate it instantly, and enjoy affordable data across multiple destinations. They work on modern smartphones and allow you to keep your UK number active while using local data.

Here’s a quick look at the top three eSIM providers:

• ZIM Connections: Covers 200+ destinations. Offers voice and data plans, including local numbers and unlimited data options.
• Airalo: Affordable data-only plans in 200+ countries. Best for budget-conscious users.
• Nomad: Reliable service with multi-network coverage in 100+ countries. Offers both fixed-data and day-based plans.

Each provider caters to different needs, whether you prioritise voice services, cost savings, or reliable connectivity.

BEST 2025 International eSIMs Compared (5 Continents, 21 Months)

1. ZIM Connections

ZIM Connections is a digital eSIM solution designed to provide international travellers with reliable connectivity without the burden of traditional roaming fees. With instant activation and flexible plans tailored to various destinations, it’s a convenient option for staying connected on the go. Let’s explore its key features.

Global Coverage

ZIM Connections offers extensive coverage, connecting users in over 200 destinations worldwide. It provides three types of plans to suit different travel needs:

• Local plans: Ideal for single-country visits.
• Regional plans: Cover multiple countries within zones like Europe.
• Global plans: Include a mix of destinations across North America, South America, Europe, and Asia.

This flexibility makes ZIM Connections a great choice for trips ranging from a quick getaway in Europe to an extended, multi-continent adventure. The regional plans are particularly useful for European travellers, enabling seamless movement between countries without the hassle of changing plans or juggling multiple data packages.

Pricing

ZIM Connections is budget-friendly, with plans starting at just $1 USD (around £0.80). This pricing structure eliminates the unpredictability and high costs associated with traditional roaming fees. For UK travellers, it’s an affordable alternative that can make a significant difference to travel budgets.

Device Compatibility

ZIM Connections supports a wide range of modern devices, ensuring most UK travellers can use the service with their existing smartphones. Supported devices include:

• iPhones: Models from the iPhone XR onwards, covering the XS series and all devices in the iPhone 11 through 16 series.
• Samsung Galaxy: Compatibility includes the S20 through S25 series, Note 20 series, Fold and Z Flip series, and select A-series models like the A54, A55, and A35.
• Google Pixel: Supported from the Pixel 2 through Pixel 8 series, including the Pixel Fold.

Additionally, ZIM Connections works with other popular brands such as Huawei (P40, P40 Pro, Mate 40 Pro, Pura 70 Pro), Oppo, Sony, Xiaomi, Motorola, and Honor. However, it’s important to ensure your phone is carrier-unlocked and supports eSIM functionality, as some regional models may not be compatible.

Customer Support

Travellers can rely on ZIM Connections’ live customer support for help with setup, troubleshooting, and plan management. This real-time assistance is especially helpful for resolving connectivity issues while abroad or activating plans across different time zones. The ZIM@SBB app further enhances the user experience by providing low-cost internet access worldwide, as well as tools to manage connectivity and access support resources directly from your device.

2. Airalo

After ZIM Connections’ strong global presence, Airalo emerges as another excellent option, offering well-organised regional plans and clear pricing. With over 20 million users worldwide, Airalo provides a range of eSIM plans – local, regional, and global – that cater to UK travellers looking for dependable mobile data while abroad.

Global Coverage

Airalo’s reach spans more than 200 countries and regions, with three plan categories tailored to different travel needs. Their regional packages cover Europe, Africa, Asia, the Caribbean, Latin America, and the Middle East, while their global plan extends across 136 countries. This wide coverage is paired with flexible pricing options designed to suit varying data requirements.

Pricing

Airalo is upfront about its charges, offering prepaid plans with no hidden fees. Prices vary depending on the destination and data package. For popular destinations, here are a few examples:

• France: 1GB for 7 days at £3.60, 3GB for 30 days at £8, and 10GB for 30 days at £18.40.
• United States: 1GB for 7 days at £3.60, 3GB for 30 days at £8.80, and 10GB for 30 days at £20.80.

Regional and global plans are priced higher, with global options ranging from £7.20 for 1GB over 7 days to £47.20 for 10GB over 60 days. While these prices might exceed those of local physical SIM cards, the convenience of Airalo’s service often makes up for it. However, it’s worth noting that unlimited data plans are not available.

Device Compatibility

Airalo supports a broad range of modern devices, but there are a few requirements. Your device must be eSIM-compatible, unlocked from carrier restrictions, and free from modifications like jailbreaking (iOS) or rooting (Android).

Compatible devices include:

• Apple: iPhone XS and newer, plus current iPad models.
• Samsung: S20 series and later, including Note and Fold lines.
• Google: Pixel 2 and newer, including Pixel Fold.
• Other major brands like Honor, Huawei, Motorola, Nokia, OnePlus, Oppo, Sony, and Xiaomi are also supported.

iPhone users can confirm eSIM support by going to Settings > General > About and checking for "No SIM restrictions" and a 15-digit IMEI number. Android users can consult their device manufacturer or dial *#06# to check for an EID number, which indicates eSIM compatibility.

Customer Support

Airalo’s customer support receives mixed reviews. While the app is generally well-rated (4.3 stars on iOS, 4.0 on Android), some users report slower speeds in rural areas and challenges with refunding unused data.

"Affordable and Transparent – No hidden fees and entirely prepaid"

• David Schouten

Since Airalo’s plans are data-only, traditional calling and texting aren’t included. However, this trade-off helps keep costs lower than international roaming options from major carriers.

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3. Nomad

Nomad rounds out our comparison with its flexible pricing plans and extensive global reach, offering both fixed-data and day-based plans across more than 200 destinations.

Global Coverage

Nomad provides coverage options tailored to local, regional, or global needs. Its Global and Global-EX plans span over 100 destinations, while the Global eSIM ensures consistent 4G/5G connectivity, from bustling cities to more remote areas. The service uses a multi-network setup, connecting to multiple carriers at once. This means if one network fails, there’s a reliable backup. However, some overseas territories might not be included, so it’s wise to double-check coverage details with their customer support before committing. This dependable connectivity is paired with transparent regional pricing.

Pricing

Nomad’s pricing is split into two main categories: fixed-data plans and "day" plans, which provide daily high-speed data allowances. Costs differ depending on the destination:

• United States: Fixed-data plans range from US$5 (£3.95) for 1GB/7 days to US$49 (£38.70) for 50GB/30 days. Day plans start at US$4 (£3.15) for 1 day and go up to US$22 (£17.40) for 10 days.
• Italy: Fixed-data plans begin at US$4.50 (£3.55) for 1GB/7 days and extend to US$45 (£35.55) for 50GB/30 days. Day plans range from US$4 (£3.15) for 1 day to US$13 (£10.25) for 10 days.
• Europe: Regional plans covering 35 countries start at US$5.50 (£4.35) for 1GB/7 days and go up to US$48 (£37.90) for 50GB/30 days.
• Global: A 106-country plan starts at US$12 (£9.50) for 1GB/7 days and reaches US$36 (£28.45) for 5GB/30 days.

Nomad’s "unlimited" day plans provide between 500MB and 3GB of high-speed data daily. Once the high-speed limit is reached, speeds drop to 512 Kbps until the next day. All plans are prepaid, with taxes included upfront, so you won’t face surprise roaming fees. Additionally, data overages can be managed with add-ons.

Device Compatibility

Nomad supports a wide range of modern, carrier-unlocked smartphones and WiFi+Cellular tablets. Compatibility depends on the device’s origin and unlocked status. For instance, iPhones purchased in China or Hong Kong are often not eSIM-compatible. iOS users can check compatibility by navigating to Settings > Mobile Data and looking for "Add eSIM", while Android users can go to Settings > Connections > SIM Card Manager. Nomad also provides a detailed list of supported devices on its website, and their customer support can assist with any questions.

Customer Support

Adding to its technical features, Nomad ensures accessible customer support through various channels. Their team can clarify network availability, provide guidance on coverage, and assist with device compatibility or plan details. If you have specific concerns, such as coverage in particular areas, it’s a good idea to reach out to their support team before making a purchase.

Advantages and Disadvantages

Here’s a quick breakdown of the strengths and weaknesses of each provider, based on our in-depth review, to help UK travellers make an informed choice tailored to their needs.

Taking a closer look, ZIM Connections shines when it comes to travellers needing both voice and data services across an impressive 200+ destinations. This makes it a great choice for those who value local calling functionality alongside data connectivity.

For budget-conscious travellers, Airalo stands out with its affordable pricing and straightforward setup. BCGregory shared their thoughts, saying:

"Airalo has been, by far, the easiest, most useful, and most cost-effective option for travelling abroad that I have found."

Meanwhile, Nomad is celebrated for its reliable service and overall user satisfaction, backed by a 4.4/5 Trustpilot rating from over 17,000 reviews. Its multi-network system ensures a dependable connection. In a June 2025 review, Desmo Travel praised Nomad for its:

"global coverage in over 200 countries and 10 regions, affordable data plans, and fast setup via QR code".

While all three options cater to eSIM-compatible, carrier-unlocked devices, it’s worth noting that performance may dip in more remote areas. Use the table above as a handy reference to weigh up the pros and cons of each provider.

Final Recommendations

The best eSIM provider for you will depend on what matters most during your travels.

If you’re after extensive voice and data coverage, ZIM Connections is a standout choice. Covering over 200 destinations, it offers voice calling, data services, local phone numbers, and hotspot sharing. This makes it an excellent pick for business travellers or anyone needing to make local calls while abroad.

For those prioritising affordability, there are great options available. Budget-savvy travellers will appreciate the competitive pricing from Airalo and Nomad. Airalo provides 1GB of data for 7 days at just £4.00, while Nomad offers 3GB for 30 days for only £6.40. With Airalo’s coverage spanning around 200 countries, it’s a fantastic option for multi-country trips.

Nomad also shines when it comes to reliable connectivity. Meanwhile, travellers focused on UK-specific needs should ensure their devices are eSIM-compatible and carrier-unlocked. It’s also worth checking network coverage for your destinations, especially if you plan to visit remote areas.

For most UK travellers, ZIM Connections delivers the best all-round package if you need voice services. On the other hand, Airalo is ideal for affordable, data-only plans, and Nomad is a dependable choice for consistent connectivity. Your decision should hinge on whether you need local calls, want to save money, or require steady and reliable data access.

FAQs

What are the main benefits of using an eSIM for international travel instead of a traditional SIM card?

Using an eSIM for international travel brings several clear advantages compared to traditional SIM cards. One major benefit is improved security – since the eSIM is embedded in your device, it cannot be physically removed if your phone is lost or stolen. This adds an extra layer of protection to your mobile connection.

Another big plus is its convenience. With an eSIM, you can switch carriers or activate new plans remotely, eliminating the need to physically replace SIM cards. This is especially handy for travellers visiting multiple countries, allowing you to stay connected without any fuss. It’s a simple way to make your journey more seamless and adaptable.

How can I check if my device supports eSIM before travelling?

To determine if your device supports eSIM before heading abroad, start by checking your settings. On an iPhone, navigate to Settings > General > About. For Android devices, head to Settings > Connections > SIM Manager. Another quick method is to dial #06# – if an EID number appears, your device is eSIM-compatible.

If you’re still uncertain, refer to your device’s manual or visit the manufacturer’s website for detailed information. Confirming this ahead of time ensures you can stay connected without any hiccups during your travels.

What should I look for when choosing an eSIM plan for travel to multiple countries?

When choosing an eSIM plan for travelling across multiple countries, start by looking at the coverage. Make sure the plan includes all the destinations on your itinerary. Plans offering regional or global coverage often simplify things and can save you money in the long run.

You’ll also want to weigh up the data allowance and the validity period to ensure they suit your needs. Some plans let you switch between regions or add extra data, which can be a lifesaver if your usage changes. Double-check that the eSIM is compatible with your device and comes with an easy-to-navigate platform for managing your plan. And don’t overlook customer support – having reliable assistance can make all the difference when you’re far from home.

Picking a provider that specialises in international travel plans can help you stay connected effortlessly, avoiding unnecessary complications or costs as you move between countries.

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