Airalo eSIMs: The Ultimate Guide for International Travelers

In today's digital age, staying connected is more important than ever, especially when traveling abroad. Airalo, a marketplace that specializes in eSIMs, is making international travel easier and more cost-effective by offering digital SIM cards that eliminate the need for a physical SIM card. In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore what Airalo is, how eSIMs work, and the benefits and drawbacks of using Airalo eSIMs for your next international trip.

What is Airalo?

Airalo is an innovative marketplace that provides eSIMs – digital SIM cards that let users activate a cellular plan without inserting a physical SIM card into their phone. Catering to international travelers, Airalo offers local, regional, and global eSIMs for a seamless and affordable mobile experience while on the go.

What does the "e" in eSIM stand for?

The "e" in eSIM stands for "embedded," signifying that the SIM card is directly embedded into the user's phone, eliminating the need for a separate physical card. This technology simplifies the process of switching between mobile plans when traveling to different countries.

How many types of eSIMs does Airalo offer?

Airalo provides three types of eSIMs to accommodate travelers' diverse needs:

Local eSIMs: Covering one specific country This is an example of an Airalo local plan for Japan: "Moshi Moshi":

Data

20 GB

Validity30 day(s)

🇯🇵 Japan

Data only

Network(s) : KDDI (LTE), Softbank (LTE)

Special Offer: 15% OFF

Airalo - Moshi Moshi - 20 GB

$22.10

$26.00

$1.10/GB

Learn more ›

Regional eSIMs: Covering a specific region of the world, such as Europe or the Caribbean

Here is Airalo's "Eurolink" plan, which, as it may sound, is from Europe.

Data

10 GB

Validity30 day(s)

39 countries

Data only

Special Offer: 15% OFF

Airalo - Eurolink - 10 GB

$31.45

$37.00

$3.15/GB

Learn more ›

Airalo's Global eSIM: Offering coverage in 84 countries around the world

Airalo also offers a plan that they mention as Global, which offers coverage in 128 countries around the world.

Data

20 GB

Validity365 day(s)

123 countries

Data only

Special Offer: 15% OFF

Airalo - Discover+ - 20 GB

$75.65

$89.00

$3.78/GB

Learn more ›

What countries does Airalo cover?

With coverage in 190 countries, Airalo provides connectivity in popular destinations like France, the United States, Spain, China, Italy, Turkey, the United Kingdom, Germany, Mexico, Thailand, Hong Kong, Greece, Canada, South Korea, Japan, Singapore, and Malaysia.

What networks does Airalo use for their eSIMs?

To ensure reliable and efficient connectivity, Airalo collaborates with top cellular networks worldwide, such as AT&T and T-Mobile in the US, and Telefonica O2 in the UK. Depending on the user's location, Airalo eSIMs connect to local networks in the respective country. For more information on networks used in other countries, visit Airalo's website and check the country's eSIM details.

Here are some of Airalo's roaming partner networks in a few touristic countries:

Is my device compatible with Airalo eSIM?

To verify if your phone is eSIM compatible, refer to Airalo's updated list of compatible devices on their website. Additionally, ensure that your device is unlocked by your carrier, as many carriers lock devices on monthly payment plans.

You can also find to our list of compatible devices updated in 2023.

How can I install an Airalo eSIM?

To install and activate an Airalo eSIM, follow these very easy steps:

1. (Compare plans on esims.io)

2. Download the Airalo app from the App Store or Google Play.

3. Purchase the desired eSIM through the app.

4. Navigate to your "My eSIMs" list, where your newly purchased eSIM will appear.

5. Follow the app's step-by-step instructions for installation and activation.

What are the pros and disadvantages of using an eSIM?

Airalo eSIMs offer numerous benefits, such as:

1. Ease of use

2. Cost-efficiency compared to international plans from home carriers

3. Access to the internet without depending on WiFi

4. Affordability, with most local eSIMs starting at just $4.50

5. Elimination of the need for a physical SIM slot, which is especially useful for users with newer devices lacking SIM slots

The Disadvantages of Using Airalo eSIM:

Despite its many advantages, Airalo eSIMs have a few drawbacks:

1. Most eSIMs only support data, not phone calls or text messaging, and do not come with a phone number.

2. However, users can utilize data from Airalo eSIMs to make calls and send texts through apps like WhatsApp or Facebook Messenger.

Conclusion

Airalo eSIMs are revolutionizing international travel by providing seamless connectivity at an affordable price. Despite a few limitations, the benefits of using Airalo eSIMs far outweigh the drawbacks.

By understanding how eSIMs work, their various types, and how to install and activate them, travelers can enjoy a hassle-free and connected experience during their international trips. So, before you embark on your next journey, consider trying Airalo eSIMs for a convenient and cost-effective mobile experience.

All Airalo's esim plans are listed on esims.io:

Bultel - 30 GB

Airalo

$13.60

Galli - 20 GB

Airalo

$10.20

MEO - 30 GB

Airalo

$16.15

Bultel - 15 GB

Airalo

$9.50

Cześć - 20 GB

Airalo

$12.75

Browse more prepaid eSIM plans for this provider

Browse more prepaid eSIM plans for this provider