How To Use Regional and Global eSIMs for International Travel

As an international traveler, your adventures take you around the globe. You have an endless list of things to see and do, and your mobile connection shouldn’t hold you back. You need an easy, affordable, and flexible way to stay connected wherever you travel.

That’s where we come in! Airalo gives you access to eSIMs (digital SIMs) for 200+ countries and regions worldwide. Whether you’re off on a USA road trip, African safari, or global adventure, there’s an eSIM to keep you connected during your trip.

In this article, we’ll walk you through the following:

• How to use an eSIM for international travel
• Local vs. regional vs. global eSIM plans
• The best regional eSIM plans
• The best global eSIM plans
• How to install and activate an Airalo eSIM
• Benefits of using an Airalo eSIM for international travel

How To Use an eSIM for International Travel

Using an eSIM is one of the easiest and most affordable ways to stay connected when you travel internationally. You can think of an eSIM as a digital SIM. To get online, you can download an eSIM plan, install it on your device, and instantly connect to a mobile network. There’s no need to contact your carrier, purchase a new SIM card, or juggle physical SIMs.

How does this work for international travel? An eSIM enables you to connect to a mobile network within minutes of arrival. While other travelers queue up to buy a local SIM card, you can bypass the line and kick off your travels. Use your eSIM connection to book a ride to your accommodation, find a place to grab a bite, or navigate to the first stop on your travel itinerary.

You can also say goodbye to surprise roaming charges. Airalo eSIMs are prepaid, meaning you pay for the data you need upfront and can top up your plan as you travel. There are no hidden fees, and you won’t rack up international roaming charges from your provider. Instead, you can rest easy knowing you’re connecting like a local.

Local vs. Regional vs. Global eSIMs

With an Airalo eSIM, you don’t have to stick to one destination. You can choose from local, regional, and global eSIMs to keep you connected when you travel. Here’s a closer look at each type:

• A local eSIM plan provides coverage within a single country (e.g., Germany).
• A regional eSIM plan covers multiple countries within a specific region (e.g., Europe).
• A global eSIM plan covers several countries worldwide (e.g., Germany, Thailand, Brazil, etc.).

If you’re off on an international adventure, a regional or global eSIM plan is ideal for your trip. These plans will keep you connected across multiple countries, so you don’t need to switch plans as you cross borders. Let’s explore the best eSIM plans for your trip!

The Best Regional eSIM Plans

Regional eSIMs keep you connected across multiple countries in a given area. Airalo has six regional eSIM packages, each with several data and duration options to choose from:

• Hello Africa (Africa)
• Asialink (Asia)
• Island Hopper (Caribbean Islands)
• Eurolink (Europe)
• Menalink (Middle East & North Africa)
• Latamlink (Latin America)

Suppose you’re traveling to Europe. Rather than purchase a local eSIM for each stop on your trip, you can choose a Eurolink package to stay connected across multiple European countries. A Europe eSIM plan gives you the freedom to travel to France, Germany, Spain, Italy, and more without having to switch eSIMs.

The Best Global eSIM Plans

Global eSIMs keep you connected across multiple countries, regions, and continents. Airalo has the following global eSIM plans to choose from:

• 1GB for 7 days
• 3GB for 15 days
• 5GB for 30 days
• 10GB for 60 days
• 20GB for 180 days

Suppose you’re taking a gap year to travel the world. You can purchase a global eSIM package to keep you connected across countries in North and South America, the Caribbean, Europe, Asia, Africa, the Middle East, Australia, and more.

How To Install and Activate an Airalo eSIM

Installing and activating an Airalo eSIM only takes a few minutes! First, you’ll want to ensure your device is carrier-unlocked and eSIM-compatible. If your phone supports eSIM technology and isn’t tied to a contract with a carrier, you’re all set to get started.

Connect to a stable Wi-Fi network and follow these steps to install and activate an eSIM.