If you only need data abroad, don’t pay carrier roaming. Buy a travel eSIM before you fly, turn it on when you land, and make calls over apps (WhatsApp, FaceTime Audio, Google Voice). You’ll save a lot and you’ll be online in minutes.
When to pick an eSIM vs a local SIM
- eSIM: best for fast setup, short trips, and multi‑country hops. No store visits, no ID lineups at the kiosk.
• Local SIM: still worth it for long stays in one country or if you need a local number and heavy calling.
• UK Three SIM is the hybrid: a normal phone line with wide roaming for a daily fee and a fair‑use cap; handy if you need native voice/SMS everywhere.
My short list (why travelers like these)
| Provider | Coverage / notable plans | Why people like it | Heads‑up |
| Airalo | Global and regional eSIMs (incl. Discover+ with data, calls, and texts in many countries) | Huge catalog; easy top‑ups and install in app | Data‑only unless you choose a plan that includes calls/texts |
| Nomad | 200+ destinations; Global and Global‑EX long‑duration plans | Simple prices; good regional bundles; long‑duration options | Check country list on Global‑EX (fewer countries than standard Global) |
| Holafly | Unlimited‑style data plans in 160+ destinations | “Unlimited” is simple for heavy users | Subject to fair‑use throttling; speeds can slow if you push it |
| aloSIM | 200+ countries; regional packs (e.g., Western Europe) | Low entry price; frequent promos | Data‑only; confirm device support |
| Ubigi | Global and country packs; month‑to‑month options | Solid app; easy renewals; works on phones, tablets, and laptops | Prices vary by region; check hotspot terms |
Set‑up tips that avoid headaches
- Install the eSIM on Wi‑Fi at home. Don’t wait for the airport.
• Leave your US line on but set it to data‑off. That keeps iMessage/2FA working while your eSIM handles data.
• Turn on hotspot only if your plan allows it. Some “unlimited” plans throttle or block tethering.
• Keep a few dollars in Google Voice for the rare number that needs a normal call.
Three UK: when a physical SIM still makes sense
If you need a normal phone number and SMS everywhere, a Three UK SIM (or eSIM) still works well. Their Go Roam lets you use your UK allowances in lots of countries with a daily charge, and there’s a 12GB fair‑use cap when roaming. For many trips, a data eSIM is cheaper—but Three is the easiest path if you want native voice without apps.
Bottom line
Most travelers are happier on a data eSIM + app calling. If you must have native voice/SMS everywhere, take a Three UK SIM. Either way, set it up before you fly and you’ll hit the ground connected.
FAQs
Q1: What’s the best travel eSIM for 2025?
A: Airalo is the top pick overall for 2025 thanks to its wide global coverage, easy top-ups, and clear pricing. It’s ideal for multi-country trips and quick setup before you fly.
Q2: Which eSIM offers unlimited data for travel?
A: Holafly provides “unlimited”-style plans in 160+ destinations, great for heavy data users. Just note fair-use throttling can apply after high-volume usage.
Q3: What’s the most affordable global eSIM?
A: Nomad and aloSIM both offer strong regional and global plans at budget-friendly rates, with flexible durations and frequent promos for travelers.
Q4: When should I still use a physical SIM?
A: A Three UK SIM or eSIM makes sense if you need native voice/SMS everywhere. It supports Go Roam in many countries with a daily fee and 12 GB fair-use cap.
Find your next best card
The Cards Guy helps you pair the right credit card with your lifestyle—saving on travel, bills, and everyday spend. Start earning smarter today.
