Staying connected abroad is easier than ever—no more hunting for Wi-Fi or overpaying for data roaming. Thanks to eSIMs, you can get online the moment you land, without swapping SIM cards or making a detour to a telecom shop. Just download an app, pick a plan, and boom—you’re ready to go.

We’ve tested a bunch of eSIMs over the years, and these are the ones we keep going back to. Each one has its own perks, so here’s a breakdown of what’s worked best for us (and might work for you too).

Why Use an eSIM?

Sure, local SIM cards can sometimes be cheaper—but they’re not always convenient. You might need to visit a specific telecom store and show your passport. Airport SIM stalls? Often overpriced and you have to wait in long queues. And if you’re trying to get to your hotel with no internet? Not ideal.

eSIMs are the modern traveler’s solution. They’re quick to set up, definitely more affordable than roaming, and you can sort everything out even before your trip starts.

Top eSIM Apps We Recommend

Lyntel

Lyntel offers eSIM coverage in over 150 countries, and while the app isn’t the most user-friendly (a little buggy at times), it gets the job done. You only need one eSIM to switch between destinations—no need to reinstall every time. Prices are competitive, and they’re even expanding into unlimited data plans. It also supports Wi-Fi hotspot sharing, which is super handy when you’re traveling with multiple devices.

Good for: budget-friendly travel, wide coverage, and flexibility
Heads-up: the app could be a bit of problem, but it works

Jetpac

Jetpac makes things really convenient—once you install their eSIM, you keep it forever. Just activate new plans when you need them, no reinstallation necessary. Their plans are well-priced (5GB for $8 or 10GB for $13 for USA), and they throw in cool perks like lounge access if your flight is delayed and free VPN trials.

Good for: frequent travelers, extra perks, set-it-and-forget-it vibes
Cool bonus: free airport lounge access on flight delays

Airalo

Airalo is one of the originals in the eSIM game. They offer data in over 200 countries, and their app is one of the easiest to use. Plans start from just $4.50, and you can choose between local, regional, and global eSIMs. Perfect for those who want a smooth, no-fuss setup.

Good for: first-timers, budget travelers, global explorers
Note: some basic plans are data-only—check before you buy

Holafly

You’ve probably seen Holafly ads at airports—and they’re all about unlimited data. It’s a great option if you don’t want to worry about running out of data. But fair warning: their plans are pricier, and we’ve found the service can be a bit messy in some countries. Still, if you need a lot of data fast, it’s a solid pick.

Good for: unlimited data fans, short trips with heavy usage
Heads-up: pricier, and some users report inconsistent connectivity

Each eSIM app offers something a little different—whether it’s price, coverage, or bonus features—so it’s all about finding what works for your travel style. We use all of these depending on the trip, and honestly, they’ve saved us from a lot of hassle (and high roaming bills).

So before your next trip, grab your eSIM, get online in seconds, and enjoy exploring—without losing connection.