7 BEST International eSIMs for Data Abroad
Roaming fees? Hard pass! I want data the second the plane door opens, my number intact for codes and emergencies, and setup that takes less time than ordering an airport coffee.
This guide is the fast lane to figuring it all out and without spending a suprise amount of money when you get back home!
Here are the 6 eSIMs I actually use, what each one is best for, and the quickest way to get online right now. These eSIMs are THE way to get data abroad so you can stay connected anywhere you roam.
Just a little PS before we start, when I first started traveling I didn’t even have data on my phone! I just used my phone on Wi-Fi networks when I could connect to one.
I even used paper maps to get around instead of Google Maps. I’m showing my age but hey, this was traveling back then!
So yeah, we’ve come a long way with international eSIMs and easy ways to get data while on the go, that’s for sure.
Anyway, let’s get on with it…
1. Holafly
Best for: Travelers who want true set-and-forget connectivity with unlimited data and super simple setup across tons of destinations.
👉 Check Holafly’s plans — use code NINA5 for 5% off
Why it’s great:
- Fast QR install that gets you online in minutes without hunting for a store.
- Wide destination list with regional options for multi-country trips.
- Keeps WhatsApp active so you can message and call over data without a local number.
- Hotspot/tethering now included on many plans (typically ~500MB–1GB/day in most places), with beefier monthly options rolling out for digital nomads and students who share data.
Heads-up: “Unlimited” plans can use fair-use policies that slow speeds if you stream a lot. Most plans are data-only, so voice/SMS are via apps.
My take: The easiest option when you don’t want to micromanage gigabytes and just need reliable data everywhere.
2. Nomad
Best for: Short trips and multi-stop itineraries where you only want to pay for what you’ll actually use.
👉 Check Nomad’s plans — use code NOMADNINA3
Why it’s great:
- Competitive pricing with country, regional, and time-based packs.
- Clear in-app balance tracking so you can see exactly what’s left.
- Easy top-ups if your plans change mid-trip.
Heads-up: Mostly data-only. Use WhatsApp/Telegram/Messenger for calls and texts.
My take: Great value + clean app experience. It’s the one I reach for when I want control without the fuss.
3. aloSIM
Best for: First-timers and anyone who prefers an ultra-simple setup with dependable coverage in popular destinations.
👉 Check aloSIM’s plans — use code NINA5 for 5% off
Why it’s great:
- Fast install and a very beginner-friendly interface.
- Solid regional options that make planning easy.
- Frequent promos that can shave a few bucks off your trip data.
Heads-up: Data-only. Keep background data in check so small plans don’t vanish.
My take: No-drama, easy choice if you want something that “just works” without a learning curve.
4. GigSky
Best for: Travelers bouncing across regions and cruisers who want connectivity at sea and in port under one brand.
👉 Check GigSky’s plans
Why it’s great:
- Offers cruise-specific plans (on many major ships) in addition to land coverage.
- Broad global footprint and simple top-ups inside the app.
- One account you can reuse trip after trip.
Heads-up: Pricing can be higher than super-local eSIMs, and speeds at sea depend on the ship’s network.
My take: If you’re cruising, this is one of the few eSIM options that actually has a plan built for it.
5. Ubigi eSIM
Best for: Travelers who want one eSIM they can reuse in the USA and on future trips to 200+ destinations, with solid speeds and easy top-ups.
👉 Check Ubigi’s plans — use code NINA10 for 10% off
Why it’s great:
- One eSIM profile you can reuse across loads of countries, including dedicated USA plans.
- Plans only start when you actually connect in the destination, so you can buy ahead without wasting days.
- 5G where available plus hotspot/tethering allowed, so you can share data with your laptop or travel buddy.
- Handy app for buying new plans or topping up on the go, even if you’ve run out of data.
Heads-up: Most plans are data-only, so you’ll use apps like WhatsApp or Messenger for calls and texts. Home IP features and certain extras may only be available for specific countries.
My take: A great “install once and reuse everywhere” eSIM, especially if you bounce between the US and other countries regularly.
6. Saily
Best for: Value-focused travelers who want straightforward plans and an easy install, with solid performance in popular destinations.
👉 Check Saily’s plans — use code NINA5 for 5% off
Why it’s great:
- Quick QR setup with intuitive plan choices.
- Wallet-friendly data bundles that are easy to top up.
- Worked smoothly for me on my Thailand trip (details in my Thailand eSIM guide).
Heads-up: Data-only. Double-check your destination list if you’ll be crossing borders frequently.
My take: A solid budget-friendly pick that doesn’t feel “bare-bones.”
7. Airalo
Best for: People who want virtually every country in one app, plus frequent deals and region/global packs for easy border-hopping.
👉 Check Airalo’s plans
Why it’s great:
- Huge marketplace of country, regional, and global plans.
- Fast QR setup and simple management inside the app.
- Often has promos and bundles that make multi-country trips cheaper.
Heads-up: Data-only. Like any eSIM, speeds/coverage depend on local partners.
My take: Hard to beat for availability and convenience; it’s the “always have it installed” app.
Do You Still Need a Phone Number?
Short answer: yes.
You’ll want a stable number for bank codes, two-factor logins, and the random “please call us back” moments.
I keep mine with Google Fi. It holds my long-time US number, texts work anywhere, and I have a working US number when I’m back for a visit. It’s my “anchor” while eSIMs handle the cheap data.
Reality check on eSIMs:
Most are data-only. Some providers let you add a local number as an upgrade, but it’s not standard. If you truly need to make/receive regular phone calls on a local number (hotels, delivery drivers, appointment confirmations), consider that add-on or see the next section.
Workarounds: for calling and texting, I use WhatsApp and Messenger over data/Wi-Fi. They’re free, reliable, and what most of the world uses anyway.
When a Local SIM Makes Sense
If you’re staying a while in one country, a local SIM/eSIM is often the cheapest data and comes with a local number by default. Perfect for long stays, apartments, deliveries, and local services.
But if you’re country-hopping, buying a new SIM in every destination gets old fast—more shops, more top-ups, more admin. In that case, stick to the data eSIMs in this guide and keep your US number via your main carrier.
Quick Wrap-Up
- Call/text over data with WhatsApp or Messenger to skip voice/SMS charges.
- Keep a permanent number (I use Google Fi) for 2FA and emergencies.
- Use data eSIMs for affordable, instant connectivity in each place.
- Need a local number? Check if your eSIM offers it as an upgrade or get a local SIM for long stays.
There are many options to stay connected while you’re traveling! I hope this helped you narrow it down which eSIM to get!
