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The best eSIMs for international travel tested for you

Having a stable and fast internet connection while traveling is essential. It helps us use digital maps, apps, real-time translations, and find unique places to visit. Staying connected also allows us to text or call home easily. As avid travelers, we’ve tested various connection services and here is a list of the best eSims to use in Europe and why we chose them.

How it works and where to buy it

An eSIM (embedded SIM) is a virtual profile installed directly in your smartphone or tablet. Simply buy a plan online, download the profile via QR code or app, and activate it without needing to replace anything. Once activated, it automatically connects you to local networks, avoiding high roaming charges. To purchase it, you can turn to international providers before departure, such as Airalo, Maya Mobile, Nomad and Holafly, which offer plans to cover Italy and Europe. The advantage? You arrive with active connectivity and can manage everything via app, even additional top-ups remotely .

Airalo, one of the most reliable

Why we like it: Airalo is probably the best-known eSIM provider. We tested it during a trip to South America and can confirm that it performs very well. It offers an easy installation process, is secure, and provides excellent 24/7 customer support. One of the significant advantages is the ability to configure the SIM card before your departure, ensuring that you have connectivity from the very first moment of your trip. Additionally, you can surf the internet in over 200 countries by customizing your choice of data packages. Lastly, it is helpful that Airalo keeps track of your data usage.
In a word: safe.

Maya Mobile: intuitive and easy to use

Why we like it: what impressed us most about Maya Mobile is how clearly and easily everything is explained right from the start. The choice of plans, the installation process, and the support all work seamlessly. We tested it in Albania and Montenegro and can confirm its reliability. Additionally, there is the option to customize navigation packages, a useful hotspot function, and an excellent connection speed.
In a word: easy.

Sunrise in Cappadocia, Turkey: dozens of colorful hot air balloons fly over Göreme Valley and fairy chimneys, filmed by a tourist with smartphone

Nomad, to monitor the data consumption

Why we like it: Nomad offers an eSIM that works in many countries around the world, providing competitive prices and reliable connectivity. We used it in Turkey and Canada and found its features particularly beneficial. One standout aspect was the ability to monitor our data consumption precisely, allowing us to adjust our browsing habits to avoid running out of data. Additionally, it made it easy to consider switching to a different tariff plan when necessary.
In a word: functional.

Holafly, great to be used in multiple countries

Holafly is an excellent option for travelers visiting multiple countries. We used the Holafly eSIM while traveling between Vietnam and Cambodia and really appreciated the convenience of keeping the same card throughout our time in Asia. It’s a great solution for anyone planning to visit several countries on the same trip, and the prices are also reasonable. Just be aware that this eSIM relies solely on data traffic for communication, so it’s important to use apps like WhatsApp or Skype for calls instead of traditional phone networks.
In a word: versatile.

Saily, global coverage and lots of security

Why we like it: although we haven’t personally tested this eSim, it comes highly recommended by several trusted travelers, which gives us confidence in its reliability. The key benefits include ease of use, excellent coverage, and competitive pricing, making it an appealing choice for many travelers.
In a word: recommended.

Phone box, the SIM choice for Canada and the U.S.

Why We Like It: Phone Box offers an excellent solution for anyone traveling in Canada and the United States, even for long-term stays. Their eSIM is easy to install and provides secure browsing. Additionally, they have a great customer service center. Overall, we had a fantastic experience with Phone Box!
In a word: serious.


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