Best eSIMs for Europe

If you’ve travelled before, you’ll know that organising a SIM card and mobile data can sometimes be a hassle. Before you plan your next trip, here’s why you should consider these Best eSIMs for Europe.

Planning a Europe itinerary is hard enough, and adding the logistics can sometimes take the fun out of it. But that’s where eSIMs come in. Opting for an eSIM can kick the stress out of your Europe trip so that you can focus on the best tapas in Madrid or the myriad day trips from Santorini. Having lived in Europe for over six years, I’ve narrowed down the best eSIMs for Europe.

Alongside the best travel apps for Europe, an eSIM is a must-have. So, let’s not waste any more time. Here’s everything you need to know.

How do eSIMs Work

eSIMs are a new version of the standard SIM card, which is typically embedded into a device that connects to a cellular network.

eSIM technology boasts many benefits for travellers, and over the past few years, its popularity has soared. They are a safe and reliable option while abroad.

eSIMs were developed by the GMSA (Global System for Mobile Communications Association). An eSIM allows you to switch between different mobile network operators or plans.

It’s exactly the same as a SIM card, except you don’t have to physically change it. eSIMs generally offer more flexibility and convenience, especially for travellers.

How to Choose an eSIM

When planning a trip, there are many decisions to make. Thankfully, there are only two main categories when it comes to eSIMs: local regions eSIMs and global eSIMs. Here’s a quick breakdown of the differences:

Local Region eSIM

These are usually tied to a specific country or region and are ideal if you plan to spend most of your time in that area. Local region eSIMs are an ideal choice if you’re travelling to only one country in Europe, like Spain or Portugal.

Global eSIM

These offer coverage across multiple countries and regions. If you’re travelling between different countries, you can access mobile networks at competitive rates. Global eSIMs offer affordable prices for data, voice and messaging services, making it a cost-effective option. For example, if you’re planning a month-long trip to France, Italy, Greece and Croatia, a global eSIM would be the best, budget-saving choice.

Why You Should Consider eSIMs for Europe

Here are some reasons why eSIMs for travel are a crowd-favourite:

International: The availability of eSIMs varies across the world, but it’s a popular choice for those travelling in Europe.
Convenience: Using an eSim offers a stress-free experience while abroad. You can stay connected and enjoy the cost-effectiveness. The process of setting up an eSIM is simple and there are many options to choose from.
Saves space: eSims free up space that would normally be taken up by a physical SIM card. Plus, there’s no chance of you losing damaging or breaking it.
Security: Similar to the classic SIM card, eSIMs offer user data and identity protection. If you lose your phone while travelling, you can block it on your old device and reload it on a new one.

How to Start Using eSIMs in Europe

Before you jet-set off abroad, follow these top tips.

Step 1: Make sure your phone supports an eSIM

It’s important to check that your device is carrier-unlocked and compatible with eSIMs. Here’s a quick breakdown:

iPhone series: iPhone XS and iPhone models XS, XS Max, XR, 11, 11 Pro, 11 Pro Max, 12, 12 Mini, 12 Pro, 12 Pro Max
Google Pixel series: Pixel 2 and Pixel models 2, 2 XL, 3, 3 XL, 3a, 3a XL, 4, 4 XL, 4a, 4a 5G, 5
Samsung Galaxy series: Galaxy S20, many newer Galaxy models S20, S20+, S20 Ultra, Note20, Note20 Ultra, S21, S21+, S21 Ultra

Step 2: Find a provider and purchase an eSIM

Airlo is one of the most popular eSIMs in Europe. But you can also an eSIM profile from most providers on their website. Simple!

Step 3: Activate your eSIM

Follow these steps to set up your eSIM. Go to the settings and click on "Mobile Data", then, select "Add Cellular Plan". Follow the instructions to add the profile (usually it involves scanning a QR code or something like that).

I’ve used various eSIMs while travelling to top destinations like Morocco, London and Melbourne. Having dabbled in a fair few providers, it’s easy to find the best eSIMs for Europe with Airlo. Simply download the app, choose your destination and select a package that’s right for you.

Airlo is an easy-to-use platform that offers a wide range of local region and global eSIMs. So whether you’re planning a 10 days in the Greek Islands or a 1-month Europe trip, there’s plenty to choose from.

As an avid traveller, I can honestly say that Airlo offers some of the best eSIMs for international travel. You can find plans starting from just $4.50, with both regional and global options across 190 countries.

Here are some other popular eSIM providers for Europe:

Holafly: covers 130 countries
Drimsim: covers 200 countries
Nomad: covers 110 countries
Simify: covers 190 countries

Considering eSIMs for Travel?

Ditch the stress, time and money that often comes with organising a physical SIM card for travel. Opt for one of the best eSIMs for Europe with Airlo and get ready to jet-set off on your next adventure!

FAQs

Is an eSIM suitable for international travel?

eSIMs are great for international roaming, if not better. Instead of buying a local SIM card, you can activate an eSIM profile and access data services while travelling abroad.

Can I have multiple eSIMs on one device?

Yes, but the quantity depends on each device. On an iPhone, you can use up to eight eSIMs. Whether you’ve got an iPhone 13 or an Android device, you can enjoy the convenience of multiple eSIMs.

How do eSIMs work on iPhones?

eSIMs allow you to activate a mobile plan without using a physical SIM. You can install up to 8 or more eSIMs on an iPhone device. Plus, you can use 2 mobile phone numbers at the same time.

How do eSIMs work on Android?

Setting up your eSIM on Android is simple and time-effective. Go to Settings > Connections, and then tap on SIM card manager. Add a mobile plan by selecting the other ways to add plans. Then, tap on Add using QR code.