Top eSIMs for international travel: global data plans
Financial basics · 25 March 2026Lydia Makin · Nuria Macias Castro
Staying connected while travelling abroad shouldn’t mean paying high roaming charges. Travel eSIMs make it easier to get mobile data in different countries without having to swap physical SIM cards.
Whether you're heading to the US for business or backpacking across Southeast Asia, finding the best eSIM for international travel is the key to a stress-free journey. Traditional mobile networks often charge expensive daily rates just to access your home data allowance. Digital alternatives like Revolut, Airalo, and Saily have changed the landscape, though, offering flexible plans that you can activate in minutes.
At Revolut, we design travel to just work. No friction, no hidden fees, no juggling between apps. Our eSIM is built directly into your Revolut experience, so you can get online abroad in seconds and manage your data the same way you manage your money — simply, transparently, and all in one place.
In this guide, we explore the best eSIM options for international travel to help you find the right fit for your next adventure.
This comparison is based on publicly available information published by other providers as of 18 March 2026.
You should visit their websites for confirmation of their most updated costs and charges.
eSIM T&Cs and fees apply.
What is an eSIM and how does it work?
An eSIM (embedded SIM) is a digital SIM built into your device that lets you activate a mobile plan without inserting a physical card.
Instead of swapping SIMs when travelling, you can download a data plan directly to your phone and connect to local networks digitally. Most modern smartphones support multiple eSIM profiles, allowing you to keep your primary number active while using a travel data plan.
Common roaming fees and how to avoid them
Before choosing an international travel eSIM, it’s worth understanding the types of costs you may encounter when using your regular mobile plan abroad. Many traditional mobile networks apply roaming fees when you use data outside your home country, which can vary depending on your provider, destination, and plan. These charges may include daily fees or higher data rates. Sometimes, these charges can add up quickly if you use maps, streaming, or social media while travelling.
In contrast, travel eSIMs are designed around more predictable, upfront pricing. Instead of being charged based on usage after the fact, you typically purchase a fixed data package, such as 1GB, 3GB, or 10GB, valid for a specific period. This means you know exactly how much you'll spend before you travel. Once you run out of data, the service stops without charging you extra money. For many travellers, this pay-as-you-go approach offers more cost control and helps avoid surprises on their mobile bill.
Best eSIM options for international travel compared
Choosing the right provider depends on your destination and how much data you plan to use. Here's how the leading options compare for UK travellers heading abroad.
Provider | Global coverage | Approximate starting price | Main benefit |
Revolut | 100+ countries | £1.50 | All-in-one travel app |
Airalo | 200+ countries | £3.50 | App available in 53 languages with multiple currencies |
Saily | 200+ countries | $2.99 | High level of security (NordVPN) |
Holafly | 270+ countries | £3 | Unlimited data options |
Ubigi | 200+ countries | £4 | Useful for regional plans |
Nomad | 200+ countries | £3 | Flexible short-term plans |
Top eSIM providers for 2026
1. Revolut
Revolut is designed for travellers who want everything in one place. Instead of juggling multiple apps, you can manage your spending, exchange money, and stay connected abroad from a single interface. The eSIM is fully integrated into the Revolut app, making it one of the most seamless options on the market.
- Global coverage: access data in over 100 countries, including the USA, Australia, and most of Europe
- Data plan options: choose from local, regional, or global bundles starting from as little as 1GB
- Network reliability: we partner with top-tier local providers to ensure high-speed 4G and 5G connections where available
- Setup process: one-tap activation in-app with no QR codes required for most devices
- Prices starting from: £1.50/day
With Revolut, you can also get:
- multi-currency accounts to spend like a local in 150+ countries
- competitive exchange rates on global transfers
- smart budgeting tools to track your holiday spending
- access to travel money cards for secure physical payments
- RevPoints on your everyday spending (RevPoints T&Cs apply)
If you're an Ultra customer, you get 3GB of global data every single month, included with your plan.
eSIM T&Cs apply. Ultra benefits are available on our Ultra paid plan only. Subscription fees and Paid Plan Terms apply.
T&Cs apply.
Want to learn more about our eSIMs? Explore our eSIM guide for more information.
2. Airalo
Airalo is one of the most established eSIM marketplaces, offering one of the widest ranges of country-specific plans. It’s particularly useful if you’re travelling to less common destinations or want very detailed control over your data plan.
- Global coverage: coverage in 200+ countries and territories
- Data plan options: local eSIMs for specific countries, regional eSIMs for continents, and a global plan for 166 countries³
- Network reliability: uses a variety of local networks depending on the destination
- Setup process: requires downloading the Airalo app and scanning a QR code, or manual installation
- Prices starting from: around £3.50
3. Saily
Saily positions itself as a privacy-first eSIM provider, built by the team behind NordVPN. It focuses on simplicity, security, and an intuitive experience, making it a strong option for customers who value digital safety while travelling.
- Global coverage: covers over 200 destinations worldwide
- Data plan options: you can choose from tiered options ranging from 1–20GB, or opt for unlimited data for a set duration
- Network reliability: partners with reliable local networks to provide consistent speeds
- Setup process: guided setup within the Saily app, designed for beginners
- Prices starting from: around $2.99
4. Holafly
Holafly is best known for its unlimited data plans, making it a popular choice for heavy data users like remote workers or travellers who stream frequently. Instead of worrying about usage limits, you pay for a fixed duration of unlimited access.
- Global coverage: available in 270+ countries
- Data plan options: you can choose country coverage, regional, or global
- Network reliability: generally connects to the strongest local network available, whether 4G, LTE, or 5G
- Setup process: purchase on their website and receive a QR code via email for activation
- Prices starting from: around £3/day
5. Ubigi
Ubigi offers a mix of flexibility and strong global infrastructure. It’s particularly useful for frequent travellers who move across regions, thanks to its wide selection of regional and global plans and growing 5G support.
- Global coverage: more than 200 destinations
- Data plan options: local, regional, and global data plans starting from 1GB
- Network reliability: provides fast internet connection with 4G and 5G networks
- Setup process: app-based installation or QR code
- Prices starting from: around £4
6. Nomad
Nomad focuses on clear pricing and flexibility. It’s a strong option for short trips or travellers who want to carefully control how much they spend on data, with upfront pricing and plan structures.
- Global coverage: more than 200 countries
- Data plan options: competitive short-term plans for 3, 5, or 7 days with local, regional, and global coverage
- Network reliability: displays the specific network provider you'll be connected to before you purchase, and offers 4G or 5G in nearly 200 countries
- Setup process: straightforward, app-based activation
- Prices starting from: around £3
How to check if your phone is compatible with an eSIM
Before looking for an eSIM for travel abroad, you'll need to check that your phone supports the technology. Most smartphones from major brands released since 2018 are compatible.
Checking compatibility on an iPhone
To check your iPhone, go to Settings > Mobile Service (or Cellular). If you see an option that says Add eSIM, your phone is ready.
You'll also be able to check by dialling *#06# in your phone app. If you see an 'EID' number listed among the barcodes, your device works with digital SIMs. According to Apple's official eSIM set-up guide, most models from the iPhone 11 onwards have this feature.
Checking compatibility on Android
For Android devices, the steps are slightly different depending on the brand:
- Samsung: go to Settings > Connections > SIM Manager. If you see Add eSIM, you're ready to go.
- Google Pixel: go to Settings > Network & internet > SIMs. Tap the + symbol to see if you'll be able to download a SIM.
How to start using a Revolut eSIM for your next trip
We've made the process of getting online as simple as possible. You can set everything up before you leave the UK, so you're connected from the moment you arrive at your destination. Here's how it works:
- Download the app: if you're not a customer yet, download Revolut from the App Store or Google Play Store.
- Verify your mobile: follow the prompts to verify your phone number.
- Secure your account: set up your passcode and biometric security.
- Fill in your details: provide the basic information required to open your account.
- Verify your identity: upload a photo of your ID for a quick check.
- Get your eSIM: from your home screen, tap More below your balance, then Add products & accounts. Head to the Lifestyle section and tap eSIMs. Follow the on-screen prompts to select your destination and data bundle.
- Install and activate: follow the instructions to install your eSIM profile. When you arrive abroad, make sure Data Roaming is turned on for your Revolut eSIM in your phone settings.
Frequently asked questions
Can I keep my UK number for WhatsApp while using a travel eSIM?
Yes. WhatsApp is linked to your account, not specifically the SIM card providing the data. You can use your travel eSIM for the internet connection while keeping your WhatsApp conversations and UK number active.
Do I need an internet connection to install the eSIM?
Yes. You'll need a stable WiFi or mobile data connection to download the eSIM profile to your device. We recommend setting this up while you're still at home or using airport WiFi before you head through immigration.
Sources
- Holafly - https://esim.holafly.com/
- Airalo - https://www.airalo.com/
- Airalo Global Data Plan - https://www.airalo.com/discover-esim
- Saily - https://saily.com/
- Ubigi - https://cellulardata.ubigi.com/
- Nomad - https://www.nomadesim.com/
Disclaimer:
This comparison is based on publicly available information published by other providers as of 18 March 2026.
You should visit their websites for confirmation of their most updated costs and charges.
Please note that actual charges and services offered may change and vary depending on individual circumstances. For the most accurate and up-to-date information, we recommend visiting each provider’s official website.
This article and the information provided here are not intended to constitute legal, regulatory advice.
eSIM T&Cs and fees apply.