Airalo eSIM Review – The international company Airalo was one of the first providers of eSIM data packages for travelers. The company was founded in Singapore in 2019 by Ahmet Bahadir Özdemir and Abraham Burak.
Today, Airalo is one of the most renowned and well-known companies in the eSIM sector, with over 20 million users in more than 200 countries and regions.
The company is headquartered in the US (Delaware), while its team is spread across around 55 countries worldwide. Airalo’s vision, as stated on its website, is to enable travelers worldwide to communicate via mobile data without incurring expensive roaming charges, while also avoiding the hassle of having to purchase physical SIM cards locally.
Its mission (see website) is to “provide global data connectivity to everyone” and solve “what has been broken in mobile communications for years.” Accordingly, Airalo is primarily aimed at tourists, business travelers, and digital nomads who want to get online easily while abroad without paying exorbitant fees.
Why get an eSIM for your trip?
No expensive fees: Probably the most important reason to get an eSIM for travel is the cost. Instead of high roaming fees, you pay a one-time fee for local rates. This means there are no surprises at the end of your vacation and you have full control over your costs.
No card change & instant online access: You save yourself the hassle of changing a physical card and don’t have to go to a store to buy a card after landing. You can install the virtual card before departure and have mobile data available immediately upon arrival.
Security: Virtual cards cannot be lost and often come with additional security features.
More environmentally friendly: There is less plastic waste, no packaging material is used, and you save on transportation.
15% discount on your first eSIM, no discount voucher required. Simply register via our link. Save the link and receive a 10% discount on every future purchase as an existing customer.
Costs & Plans - Airalo eSIM Review
Airalo offers prepaid data packages that vary in price depending on the country or region and data volume. In countries where prices are generally higher, eSIMs are usually also slightly more expensive, while packages in Southeast Asia are usually cheaper. Furthermore, the price per GB becomes cheaper as the size of the data packages increases. With unlimited tariffs, the daily price decreases with the validity period.
The exact prices vary by country: in some cases, such as Thailand, 1 GB is available for as little as €4.00, while in other countries, such as Canada, prices start at around €6.50 per GB. If you book around 10 GB or 20 GB, you pay significantly less per unit than with the smaller packages. Important to note: All Airalo packages are prepaid (no subscription) with no hidden fees, so you don’t have to worry about any additional costs and have full control over your expenses.
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Data packages: Data plans and Volumes
Airalo offers three main types of eSIM plans, which are suitable for different types of travel:
- Local eSIMs: Local eSIMs are only valid for one country. You choose a plan that can only use one network (sometimes more) in the selected country. For other countries, you will need to purchase another eSIM.
- Regional eSIMs: Regional virtual cards are valid for a specific area. Most providers, including Airalo, offer regional eSIMs that cover entire continents (Europe, America, Asia) or parts of them (Southeast Asia, Central America, North America, etc.). Airalo’s Asia eSIM, for example, covers 18 countries.
- Global eSIMs: As the name suggests, this is a tariff that is valid worldwide. The global “Discover” tariff currently covers 137 countries.
Validity periods: The duration of the packages varies depending on their size. Small volumes (1–2 GB) are often valid for 7 to 15 days, while medium and large packages are usually valid for 30 days. There are also long-term packages (90 or 180 days) for very large volumes (50–100 GB). The good thing is that the time only starts running when the eSIM is activated (see Purchase & Activation), which means you can also buy packages in advance without the validity period starting immediately.
How does Airalo work?
Setting up the eSIM is generally very straightforward and takes only a few minutes. The easiest way to install it is using the app available for iOS and Android.
Once you have selected and paid for your data package for your destination, the “Install eSIM” option will be displayed directly in the app. For compatible devices, this basically takes just one click.
Of course, as with many other providers, the eSIM can also be set up using the QR code you receive after purchase. After purchase, Airalo displays a QR code (in the app or by email), which you then scan with the QR reader on your smartphone. On iPhones, for example, go to “Settings > Mobile Network > Add eSIM” and scan the code – the device will then download the eSIM profile. A third option is manual installation. To do this, use the information contained in the email (SM-DP+ server address and activation code) and enter it manually into your cell phone. However, the QR code usually works without any problems, making manual entry irrelevant.
Once your eSIM profile is installed, you still need to activate and configure it: In the settings, it is best to assign a unique name (e.g., “Airalo Internet”) and set the eSIM as the data connection. Please note that roaming must be enabled, as the eSIM is considered a foreign provider from the cell phone’s perspective. On dual SIM devices, select the Airalo eSIM for mobile data and leave the main SIM for calls/text messages (see Dual SIM section).
Overall, our experience with Airalo has been very positive: The Airalo app is clear and allows you to manage multiple eSIMs, view data usage, and purchase additional data if necessary. Setup is simple and hassle-free. However, if you do encounter any problems, there is an extensive help section on the website, or you can contact the knowledgeable customer service team.
You can activate the card before you leave for your destination country so that you have mobile data available as soon as you land.
Overall, Airalo is one of the most user-friendly providers out there. From registration to activation, everything is explained in a very simple and detailed way, so even first-time users with no technical background can use their card without any problems.
Network Coverage and Local Mobile Networks
Airalo offers broad network coverage in over 200 countries and territories. This means you can find a suitable eSIM for anywhere in the world, whether it’s Europe, America, Asia, or Africa.
To make this possible, Airalo cooperates with local mobile network operators in each country. The Airalo eSIM connects to a partner network locally, similar to roaming, but at local data rates.
Which local networks are used depends on the country: In the US, for example, Airalo runs on the AT&T (and partly T-Mobile) networks. In European countries, Vodafone or Telefónica are often used. In Latin America, Claro, Entel, or Movistar are often used. This means that the network quality depends on the network quality of the local network operator. In terms of speed, 4G/LTE is standard almost everywhere, and in some countries, 5G is even supported (depending on the local partner network and the package purchased).
Since Airalo only uses well-developed partner networks, network coverage is usually very good. However, network quality can vary from country to country and network to network. As a rule, you will generally have a stable and fast internet connection in large cities.
In rural areas or more remote regions, the connection or signal strength may be slightly weaker, just like with a local SIM card. Some users report slow connections in certain regions (e.g., in rural areas of Morocco with Airalo/Orange).
In general, however, services such as Google Maps, WhatsApp, email, etc. can be used without any problems in most countries. Airalo’s country coverage includes all European EU countries, virtually all of Asia (including popular destinations such as Japan, Thailand, Indonesia, and the United Arab Emirates), North and South America (including the US, Canada, Mexico, Brazil, and Argentina), Africa (from South Africa to Egypt), and Oceania (Australia, New Zealand, Pacific Islands). You can find a complete list of all available countries in the eSIM store on the website. If a country is not available, this is usually due to regulatory reasons in that country.
Calls and SMS - Airalo eSIM Review + Discount Code
Airalo’s embedded SIMs are usually data-only plans that do not include a calling option or the ability to send/receive text messages. Accordingly, you do not get a local phone number. Calling is only possible via the internet, which means you can use apps such as WhatsApp, Zoom, or Telegram to make calls and send messages.
However, there are exceptions in some countries where phone minutes and SMS are also included. The best-known plan that includes these options is the Airalo Global Plan (“Discover+ Global”). Here, Airalo offers a package that includes a minute and SMS allowance in addition to data. For example, there is a global tariff with 100 minutes & 100 SMS + 10 GB of data. This allows you to make and receive calls and send SMS messages via the eSIM, just as if you had a local prepaid SIM with a number.
However, call minutes and SMS messages are limited (only a few minutes/SMS messages) and are not available in all countries.
Conclusion Review Calls and SMS: Airalo’s eSIMs are generally pure data plans, with call minutes and text messages only available in a few countries and in the global plan. If you don’t want to make calls via the app, you can use your primary regular SIM card for calls.
For extensive phone use (e.g., long voice calls), a local SIM card or corresponding apps would still be the better choice.
Hotspot Usage - Airalo eSIM Review
Compared to some other providers, Airalo allows you to use and share your hotspot easily and without restrictions. This means you can also use your data plans with other devices via the hotspot function.
In other words, you can use the smartphone on which the Airalo eSIM is active as a Wi-Fi hotspot to connect your laptop or tablet, for example. This is particularly useful for travelers who work with multiple devices. According to tests and user reviews, Airalo does not block tethering; the same conditions apply as for a normal data connection. The Airalo app also explicitly states that this is possible.
Setup: To use the hotspot, simply activate the corresponding function on your smartphone (under “Mobile Hotspot” or “Personal Hotspot” in the settings). Other devices can then connect via Wi-Fi and share the Airalo data connection. The speed and stability depend, of course, on network coverage and data volume. Please note that when using the hotspot, the data volume may be used up more quickly, especially if your computer is updating or you are using apps that consume a lot of data. We think it’s great that there are no additional fees for using the hotspot. This means you can also connect your laptop when no Wi-Fi is available or share your data with friends.
Review of Payment Options at Airalo
Payment at Airalo, as with other online shops, can be made using common payment methods such as credit and debit cards (e.g., Visa, Mastercard), PayPal, and mobile payment solutions such as Apple Pay and Google Pay. You can make your payment either in the app or via the website. Payments can be made in all common currencies (EUR, USD, GBP, etc.). You can select the currency in the app or on the website along with the language.
Local methods are also supported for customers in certain regions, e.g., Alipay is offered for the Chinese market. The currency can be selected on the website or in the app (USD, EUR, and others). At checkout, the price is then displayed and billed in the selected currency.
Security: Airalo uses common encrypted payment gateways, which protect your data with a high level of security during payment processing.
Airalo does not charge any additional costs such as transaction fees; however, your credit card provider may charge fees if your card is billed in a currency other than the one you selected.
After purchase, you will immediately receive a confirmation and the QR code for installation will be provided.
Tip: Users can also top up their Airalo credit (Airmoney) in advance and use it to pay (see additional features), which can be handy if you use the service a lot. Overall, Airalo covers all the main payment options with credit cards, PayPal, and mobile payments, so customers worldwide should be able to find a suitable option.
Device compatibility: Is my smartphone eSIM-compatible?
Airalo eSIMs work on all devices that are eSIM-compatible and unlocked. Generally, all modern smartphones are eSIM-compatible.
Here is a list of eSIM-compatible devices:
Apple iPhones: All models from the iPhone XR/XS (2018) onwards offer eSIM technology. This includes the iPhone 11/12/13/14/15 series and newer SE models (SE 2nd gen 2020, SE 3rd gen 2022). Note: iPhone 14/15 sold in the US only have eSIM (no physical SIM slot), but of course work with Airalo. Many iPads (e.g., iPad Pro, iPad Air from 2019 onwards) also have eSIM capability, so Airalo runs on them.
Android smartphones: Numerous high-end and newer mid-range smartphones support eSIM. Examples: Google Pixel (from Pixel 3 onwards), Samsung Galaxy S series (from S20 upwards, some S10 5G models), Galaxy Note 20, Samsung Fold/Flip series, current Huawei and Xiaomi top models (unless they have disabled eSIM through Chinese firmware). Fairphone 4/5, Oppo Find X, and other models also offer eSIM.
A rule of thumb: devices from around 2020 onwards in the upper segment often have eSIM.
Other devices: Some Windows laptops (with LTE module, e.g., Surface Pro X) and wearables (e.g., Apple Watch Cellular, Samsung Galaxy Watch LTE) support eSIM – Airalo could also be used there technically, although it is primarily intended for smartphones.
Even if your smartphone is eSIM-compatible, it is important that the phone is SIM-unlocked (i.e., not tied to a specific provider). On rooted or jailbroken phones, the Airalo app may refuse service (security measure), in which case you would have to make your purchase via the website.
Overall, the rule of thumb is: “Does the device support eSIM? Then Airalo will work on it.” Airalo itself provides a list of compatible devices on its website (in the Help Center). This list is continuously updated. Most current Apple and Android devices are listed there. If you are unsure, you can check your phone settings to see if the “Add Mobile Plan” or “Add eSIM” option is available, as this confirms eSIM capability.
Airalo eSIM Purchase and Activation Process
You can purchase Airalo virtual cards either via the website or, most conveniently, via the Airalo app. First, create an account (email and password, or sign in via Apple/Google) and then select the desired country or region and the corresponding data package in the app’s eSIM shop. Then proceed to checkout, where you can select your preferred payment method (credit card, PayPal, etc.) and confirm your purchase. Immediately after payment, your new eSIM plan will appear in the app. You can now either activate the eSIM directly by clicking on “eSIM” or use the QR code or data received by email for manual entry.
Activation: Once the eSIM is installed on the device, it can be activated. To do this, it is important that “mobile data” and “roaming” are enabled and that Airalo is selected as the active mobile data connection. In iOS, for example, you can specify which SIM is ‘primary’ and which is “secondary,” or activate the Airalo eSIM for mobile data directly. It is important that mobile data and data roaming are enabled for the eSIM so that it can connect to the foreign network. If all criteria are met, your eSIM will automatically connect to the partner network in your destination country. From the moment you first connect to the local network, your plan is considered activated and you can use your mobile data.
Time of activation: You can install the eSIM in advance and before your trip; the validity period usually only starts when you use it, i.e., when you connect to the local network for the first time. So, for example, you can buy an eSIM today for a vacation in two months; as long as you don’t use it, it won’t expire. However, it’s important to note that a few packages activate immediately (Airalo points this out in the package description). Therefore, it’s advisable to download the eSIM profile in advance, but only activate the mobile data connection once you arrive at your destination.
Step-by-step summary:
Select & purchase: Country/region -> Data package -> Proceed to checkout, pay.
Install: By scanning the QR code, clicking on “Install eSIM” in the app, or setting it up manually.
Configure: Name the eSIM in Settings, activate it for mobile data, enable data roaming. If desired, leave the physical SIM as the default for calls.
Activate/use: Switch on mobile data and roaming in the destination country. Activation takes place when you first connect to a local network. You can now use your mobile data to surf the internet.
If your virtual card does not work immediately, you should first restart your cell phone. In rare cases, you may need to install the card manually. Once the eSIM is active, it will run until the data volume or validity period has been used up. It is possible to extend or recharge it (see next section). In general, users describe the purchase and setup process as very easy and convenient. Many appreciate that they have mobile data available immediately after their flight without having to go to a store first.
Customer Service Review: Support Quality and Availability
Airalo customer service is available 24/7. Airalo offers live chat both via the app and on the website. In the app, for example, there is a chat icon that you can use to send a request directly to customer service. The chat is initially bot-driven (FAQ search), but if the problem cannot be solved, you will eventually be forwarded to a customer service representative. Airalo states that it operates globally across different time zones, so requests are answered at any time. Alternatively, you can also open an email ticket (responses may take a little longer) or check the help page, where many questions are answered.
Languages: The Airalo app and website are available in many languages (German, English, French, Spanish, and other languages can be selected). However, your initial inquiry will usually be communicated in English.
Quality of customer service: Most customer experiences are very positive, and the team is described as helpful and solution-oriented. Simple issues (e.g., connection problems due to incorrect settings) are often resolved within minutes in the chat. A few customers report longer waiting times outside regular office hours. In our experience, support is fast and competent. There is no customer service phone number. Communication is exclusively in writing.
According to Airalo, there will be increased investment in improved customer support in 2025 (including faster response times and expansion of the team). One advantage is that support is available around the clock, regardless of your time zone.
Contact: The best way to contact customer service is via chat, as this is the fastest method and response times are very quick. Emails usually take a little longer and are unsuitable for more complex problems and the associated back-and-forth correspondence. Experience shows that simple problems (no network, eSIM not coming online) can often be solved by checking the settings. Support provides standard tips (airplane mode on/off, data roaming on, manually select network operator, etc.). Overall, customer service is described as friendly. We find airalo’s 24/7 customer service commendable.
Airalo eSIM Reviews: Truspilot
If you look at the reviews of Airalo eSIMs on Trustpilot, you can see right away that most customers have had very good experiences with the provider. This is also reflected in the good average rating of 4.0.
Many customers praise the intuitive operation, easy installation, fair prices, and competent customer service.
Airalo’s overall service is often described as excellent, with customers particularly appreciating the clear setup instructions and the app’s user-friendly design. The good selection of packages and the option to top up are also often highlighted as positive features.
Of course, there are also some critical voices. Some recurring disadvantages mentioned by customers include:
Occasional connection problems: In isolated cases, there have been reports of connection problems in some countries, which may of course be due to the local provider and is often likely to be the case. Nevertheless, Airalo is solution-oriented and accommodating in such cases.
Speed/latency: A few users found that the speed was not always optimal, which may again be related to the local network or the region where they are currently located, e.g., in more remote areas.
Data volume used up faster than expected: Some travelers were surprised at how quickly 5 GB can be used up when watching a lot of videos, for example. However, this is not a specific Airalo problem, but rather a general usage behavior. Airalo displays consumption in the app, but those expecting unlimited streaming may be disappointed, as Airalo does not offer “unlimited” plans for all countries. If you are looking for an unlimited plan, you should check out Holafly’s eSIMs.
Customer support availability: A few customers had to wait longer than expected for a response from customer service, but this seems to be the absolute exception.
Trustpilot Teviews:
“I recently used Airalo for my eSIM needs, and I can confidently give it 5 stars! The entire experience was seamless and incredibly convenient. Activating the eSIM was straightforward, and I was connected within minutes, which made travelling stress-free and enjoyable.
The coverage and performance were excellent, and I never ran into issues with speed or reliability. I especially appreciated the ease of managing everything through the Airalo app.
One suggestion for future improvement would be to offer customizable data options instead of only fixed packages. This small change would make an already fantastic service even better!
Highly recommended to anyone looking for a hassle-free way to stay connected while travelling.“
“The Global esim has worked seamlessly over our multiple destinations trip.“
“I have been using this app for years. As a frequent traveler, it’s genuinely so easy to figure out and manage. I personally wouldn’t know what I’d do without it.“
In summary, customers rated the high level of convenience, cost savings, plan selection, ease of use, flexibility, and customer service as very good for the most part. Although a few customers had negative experiences, these seem to be the exception rather than the rule. Airalo has become one of the best eSIM providers worldwide in all areas.
Airalo review Additional Services
In addition to data plans, Airalo offers various additional services and offers, such as a loyalty bonus system (Airmoney), a “refer a friend” program, and an affiliate program.
- Airalo Credits / Airmoney: For example, if you regularly purchase eSIMs from Airalo, you will receive cashback/Airmoney with each purchase. This credit can then be used for future purchases (1 Airmoney dollar equals 1 USD). Please note that if you are already using a discount code, you will not receive Airmoney credit. You can view your Airalo Credits in the app and on the website and use them for your next purchase.
- Referral program (“Refer a Friend”): If you share the “Refer a Friend” link with someone and they sign up using it, you will receive €3 in Airmoney and your “friend” will receive a €3 bonus for their first purchase. For every successfully referred friend (who purchases at least one data package), the Airmoney will be credited. You can repeat the process again and again with a new “friend.” However, please note the exact terms and conditions. The program is officially called “Refer and Earn” and there is currently no limit to the number of people you can refer.
- Global eSIM plans: As already described in the section on data packages, Airalo has a special offer in its portfolio: the Global eSIM, which currently covers 137 countries with a single plan. This is a unique selling point, as it means you only have to set up an eSIM once for a trip around the world or a series of very diverse trips. The global packages are available with data only or with some phone/text messaging included (Discover+ option). This is a convenient solution for frequent travelers who visit 5–10 countries, for example. However, it should be noted that the prices per GB are higher here than for local packages – you pay for the convenience of global coverage. Nevertheless, depending on your itinerary, the global 5 GB plan (~$50) can be cheaper than buying 1 GB in each country individually.
- Unlimited data packages: Similar to Holafly, Airalo also offers unlimited data plans. With these plans, the price depends on the length of validity. The daily price usually decreases with the length of the tariff. Currently, Airalo does not offer unlimited packages for all countries, but it is continuously updating and expanding its range.
Automatic top-up (renewal): You can easily set up automatic top-ups in the app. This means that your data allowance will be automatically topped up when you reach a certain threshold, e.g., when you have 10% of your data left. Of course, the new data will only be activated once the previous package has been used up. With this feature, you don’t have to worry about running out of data at any point.
In addition to the above, Airalo also operates in the B2B sector: Airalo for Business offers solutions for companies (e.g., centrally managed eSIMs for employees on business trips). There is even a white label program that allows partners to distribute Airalo eSIMs under their own branding. These offers are less relevant for end customers, but they show that Airalo is expanding its service ecosystem.
Summary: Airalo offers various deals that customers can benefit from, such as discounts through the refer-a-friend program or the loyalty program, where you can earn Airamoney (credits) and use them to purchase new cards at a lower price. Its global plans and auto-renew feature also make Airalo one of the best providers. In addition, you can get discounts on your first purchase with discount codes.
Pros and Cons of Airalo
✅ Pros
- Global coverage: Airalo offers several eSIM packages for over 200 destinations. There are also global and regional plans.
- Easy installation: Installation is quick and easy, either in the app, via QR code, or manually.
- Flexible rate selection: Local, regional, and global plans are available. You can choose the one that best suits your needs (from a 1 GB short trip to a 100 GB six-month package).
- No expensive roaming charges: You don’t have to pay the expensive charges of your standard provider when abroad, and there are no other hidden costs.
- No SIM card change: Since everything is digital, you don’t have to deal with physical SIM cards and don’t have to occupy a card slot. Perfect for devices like the iPhone 14 (without a physical SIM slot) or for using dual SIM in general.
- Hotspot use allowed: You can also use your data with other devices via a hotspot or share it with friends.
- 24/7 customer service & help center: In case of emergency, a customer service representative is available around the clock via chat/email. You can also find lots of useful information in the help center on the website.
- Credit and bonuses: With Airmoney Cashback and the Refer a Friend program, you can save money on regular purchases.
- No contract commitment: Airalo is a prepaid card with no contract. This means you are not tied to any regular payments.
- Fast availability: The eSIM is ready to use immediately after purchase. Ideal if you arrive spontaneously and need internet access right away (for taxis, maps, etc.). No waiting times.
❌ Cons
- Often only data services: Most eSIMs from airalo do not include calls and text messages. In some countries or in the global Discovery+ package, for example, these are included.
- Limited term options: Most Airalo plans run for a maximum of 30 days. There are 90/180-day packages available, but only for very large data volumes. Short-term travelers (less than 7 days) and long-term users (more than 1 month) will find less choice than with Holafly, for example (which offers many intermediate steps and 60- or 90-day options). So you have to make do with the fixed 7-, 15-, and 30-day intervals.
- Customer support only in English: Live chat and email support are provided almost exclusively in English (at initial contact). Those who do not speak English may find it more difficult to describe a problem (the app can be set to German, but the support team writes in English). Some competitors advertise support in different languages.
- Quality varies by country: Quality and network coverage can vary greatly depending on the country. So you should make sure that a good network is available in your destination country.
- Local SIM cards are often cheaper for long-term use: If you are staying in a country for two months, for example, a local SIM card with a large data package may be cheaper than stringing together Airalo packages. Airalo is more geared towards short stays and frequent travelers. For long-term stays (work and travel, etc.), you should compare costs.
Airalo Discount Code
If you sign up via our link, you don’t need to enter a discount code, but you’ll still receive a 15% discount on your first eSIM. Existing customers can still receive a 10% discount on all future purchases without a discount code. So save our link to receive further discounts in the future.
Final Airalo eSIM Review and Recommendation
Our experience with Airalo eSIMs has been consistently positive, and they are ideal for vacations. You save on high fees, don’t have to change cards, installation is easy, and there are plenty of plans to choose from, so you’re guaranteed to find one that suits your needs. In addition, there are lots of extra features and offers, such as discount codes and other reductions through Airmoney, where you can save real money as a loyal customer.
Airalo is particularly suitable for:
- Short trips and city breaks: Airalo is a good choice for those who are only going on vacation for a few days or weeks. The data packages with low data volumes are very affordable and save you a lot of stress.
- Multi-country trips: If you are visiting several countries (Europe tour, backpacking in Asia, world trip), Airalo saves you from constantly buying new cards for each country. There are packages for Europe, Asia, or America that include several countries.
Business travelers with little time: As a business traveler, you don’t necessarily have a lot of time; often you go quickly from the airport to the hotel and then straight to your first meeting. With an eSIM, you save a lot of time because you don’t have to go to a store; instead, you have mobile data available immediately after landing and can answer emails or book taxis - Digital nomads (with restrictions): Very well suited as a backup or temporary solution, but with unlimited packages, it can also be a permanent solution.
- Tech beginners: Unlike some solutions (e.g., local prepaid SIM cards with complicated registration processes or activating international packages), Airalo is very beginner-friendly. All you need is an eSIM-enabled smartphone. Even without any prior knowledge, you will be guided through the setup process, and if you encounter any problems, customer service is happy to help.
When are there better alternatives? Despite its many advantages, there are scenarios where Airalo is not the best choice:
- Frequent users: If you need a lot of data because you stream or download a lot, Holafly might be a better alternative. Holafly offers only high-quality eSIMs with unlimited data. Its collaboration with many good local mobile networks also guarantees problem-free use.
- Long-term stays in one country: If you are staying in one country for a longer period of time, it is worth buying a local SIM card, as there is an even better selection of tariffs and, in our experience, they are usually a little cheaper.
- Need for a local number/telecommunications: If you need a local number abroad, for example because you want to receive verification codes or because the connection is sometimes better than via WhatsApp, you should also consider getting a local card or using a provider such as alosim, which also offers packages with local phone numbers.
- Specific countries with affordable eSIM offers: It may be worth comparing with other providers. Airalo is a high-quality provider with a good offer, but there are also other providers who may have better offers for certain countries.
- Local free WiFi alternatives: If you can do without the convenience of having internet everywhere you go, you may be satisfied with the option of connecting via public WiFi or WiFi in a hotel.
Recommendation: For most vacationers and travelers, Airalo is one of the best options for using mobile data abroad inexpensively and easily. The combination of a large selection of countries, extensive data plans, and ease of use make Airalo one of the best eSIM providers. Alternative providers such as Holafly, Saily, alosim, and nomad have similar offers in some respects, but differ in certain details (Holafly, for example, only offers unlimited data, which is slightly more expensive, while Ubigi offers a free eSIM profile but then sometimes higher MB prices, etc.). Local SIM cards are still the cheapest option and are particularly suitable if you want to stay in one place for a longer period of time.
FAQs – Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use Airalo multiple times?
Yes, you can top up your eSIM without having to reinstall the card. Topping up is easy via the app.
What is an eSIM and how does it work?
An eSIM (embedded SIM) is permanently installed in a smartphone, so you no longer have to change SIM cards. Instead, you simply download an eSIM profile, e.g., for a specific country with a specific data volume.
Does an Airalo eSIM work on every smartphone?
No, they do not work on all devices. eSIM technology is still relatively new, so older phones are sometimes not compatible. You can check eSIM capability either in your system settings or on the Airalo website.
Can I use multiple eSIMs at the same time?
If your smartphone is dual SIM capable, you can use several at once.
When should I activate my eSIM?
It is best to install your eSIM before you leave. Your mobile data will then be automatically activated upon arrival in your destination country.
Can I make calls and send text messages with an Airalo eSIM?
Airalo offers plans with call minutes and text messages for some countries. You can view these on the website.
Can I share my hotspot?
With most providers, you can share your hotspot without restriction and use it with other devices. Some providers, such as Holafly, have limited usage.
What happens when I use up my data allowance?
That depends on your provider and your chosen plan. You can either buy a new card, top up your current card, or set up auto-renew so that your data is automatically reloaded.
Can I transfer my eSIM to a new phone?
Some providers only allow one activation, so it is advisable to contact customer service beforehand.
Are eSIMs secure?
Yes. eSIMs are even considered more secure than physical SIM cards because they cannot be stolen or removed from the device.
Is there a coupon or discount code for Airalo?
Yes, but if you sign up through one of our links, you will automatically receive a 15% discount and therefore do not need a coupon code.
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