eSIM for International Travel

Best eSIM for International Travel

eSIM Guide

Best Europe eSIMs

Europe 40 countries eSIM

Europe 40 Countries eSIM

  • Coverage40 Europe Countries
  • Data0.5GB-5GB/Day or 1-30GB Total
  • Validity1-30 Days
  • Pricefrom AU$0.55
Europe 33 countries eSIM

Europe 33 Countries eSIM

  • Coverage33 Europe Countries
  • Data0.5GB-100GB/Day or 1-50GB Total
  • Validity1-30 Days
  • Pricefrom AU$0.55
Europe 66 countries eSIM

Europe 66 Countries eSIM

  • Coverage66 Europe Countries
  • Data0.5GB-5GB Total
  • Validity1-7 Days
  • Pricefrom AU$1.98

Best Canada/USA eSIMs

USA & Canada eSIM

USA & Canada eSIM

  • CoverageUSA & Canada
  • Data0.5GB-100GB/Day or 1-50GB Total
  • Validity1-30 Days
  • Pricefrom AU$0.71
US & Canada 5G eSIM

US & Canada 5G eSIM

  • CoverageUSA & Canada
  • Data0.5GB-5GB/Day or 1-30GB Total
  • Validity1-30 Days
  • Pricefrom AU$1.64
US/Canada/Mexico 5G eSIM

US/Canada/Mexico 5G eSIM

  • CoverageUSA, Canada, Mexico
  • Data0.5GB-5GB/Day or 1-30GB Total
  • Validity1-30 Days
  • Pricefrom AU$1.91

Best Japan eSIMs

Japan SoftBank Docomo eSIM

Japan SoftBank/Docomo eSIM

  • CoverageJapan
  • Data0.5GB-10GB/Day or 3-50GB Total
  • Validity1-30 Days
  • Pricefrom AU$0.90
Japan KDDI/SOFTBANK 5G/4G eSIM

Japan KDDI/SOFTBANK 5G/4G eSIM

  • CoverageJapan
  • Data0.5GB-100GB/Day or 1-50GB Total
  • Validity1-30 Days
  • Pricefrom AU$0.67
Japan 4G eSIM

Japan 4G eSIM

  • CoverageJapan
  • Data0.5GB-100GB/Day or 3-50GB Total
  • Validity1-30 Days
  • Pricefrom AU$0.80

Best China eSIMs

China eSIM

CMCC China 4/5G eSIM

  • CoverageMainland China
  • Data0.5G-3GB/day or 1-50GB Total
  • Validity1 to 30 Days
  • Pricefrom AU$0.67
China 5G eSIM

China Mobile 5G eSIM

  • CoverageMainland China
  • Data0.5G-3GB/day or 1-50GB Total
  • Validity1 to 30 Days
  • Pricefrom AU$0.67
China/HK/Macau eSIM

China/HK/Macau eSIM

  • CoverageChina(Mainland,HK&Macau)
  • Data3-50GB Total or 0.5-100GB/Day
  • Validity1 to 30 Days
  • Pricefrom AU$0.69

eSIM Handbook for Global Travelers: A Complete Guide about eSIM

Author's Profile Picture

By Zora

eSIM Handbook

What is eSIM? Did you know that mobile phones such as iPhone, Samsung and Google Pixel can already support eSIM? Nowadays, when traveling abroad, unlike before when you had to rent a WiFi device or purchase a physical SIM card, you can simply access the Internet with eSIM. It's super convenient! In this article, we will introduce eSIM to make your international travel more convenient.

Country/Region

eSIM Option

Duration

Price

China

500MB/Day

1 Day

AU$0.61

1GB/Day

10 Days

AU$7.38

Canada & US

1GB/Day

3 Days

AU$5.05

1GB/Day

15 Days

AU$21.78

Japan

500MB/Day

3 Days

AU$1.85

500MB/Day

10 Days

AU$5.46

France, Germany, Italy & UK

1GB/Day

3 Days

AU$4.46

10GB

14 Days

AU$12.10

European 32 countries

500MB/Day

1 Day

AU$0.64

1GB/Day

15 days

AU$1.66

Global Regions

1GB/Day

3 Day

AU$5.78

10GB/Day

15 Days

AU$45.81

Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand

500MB/Day

3 Days

AU$1.68

10GB

15 Days

AU$7.17

Middle East Countries

500MB/Day

1 Day

AU$2.59

1GB/Day

7 Days

AU$3.91

*Price would fluctuate due to different season and activities.

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International eSIMs Explained: What Are They?​​ 

International eSIMs Explained: What Are They?​​

The full name of eSIM is Embedded SIM. It is the digital version of the traditional physical nano SIM card. eSIM is directly embedded in the circuit board of the mobile device, enabling you to install multiple "eSIM card profiles" to operate on the mobile phone. eSIM is like a physical SIM card, each with its own phone number and mobile data plan.

Can you imagine no longer having to go to a physical store to purchase or wait for a physical SIM card to arrive, and being able to switch to different telecommunications service operators at any time? And can the same phone number be used without changing? eSIM technology makes this possible and is easy to operate.

Trip.com Global eSIM Reviews​

Worried that eSIM is not easy to use? Come and take a look at the real user reviews on Trip.com

Global (66 countries) | 5G/4G eSIM | Total Package | 24H Billing | 1-7 days | QR code
Global (66 countries) | 5G/4G eSIM | Total Package | 24H Billing | 1-7 days | QR code
4.5/5
821 reviews
I used it in China and Mongolia. There was no particular problem when using it. We recommend restarting your smartphone when the country changes. Used in China and Mongolia. There were no problems in using it. It is recommended that you reboot your smartphone when you change countries.
Global (72 countries) | 4G/5G eSIM | Total Package | 365-day validity | 24H | QR code
Global (72 countries) | 4G/5G eSIM | Total Package | 365-day validity | 24H | QR code
4.3/5
124 reviews
It's very easy to install, and the internet is super fast. I definitely re purchase it again for sure!
Global 92 Countries 4G/5G eSIM | Day Pass/Total Package | 1-30 Days | QR Code
Global 92 Countries 4G/5G eSIM | Day Pass/Total Package | 1-30 Days | QR Code
4.6/5
63 reviews
It all worked. In Russia and Turkey it worked.

​How Does a Global eSIM Work?

​​How Does a Global eSIM Work?

eSIM works using the software pre-installed on your device and functions the same as a physical SIM card. Once you activate it, you can connect to the mobile network, make calls and use mobile data. Most modern smartphones have built-in eSIM functionality. However, please check whether your phone is compatible with eSIM functionality.

To start using eSIM, simply purchase an eSIM package and complete the quick setup. There is no need to remove the current SIM card - you can leave it where it is, whether you decide to continue using it or not.

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eSIMs, Physical SIMs, or WiFi Routers for Travel?​

eSIMs, Physical SIMs, or WiFi Routers for Travel?​

If you don't know how to choose, the following questions can help you make a decision

  1. ​How many people/devices need connectivity?
    → Solo: ​​eSIM​​ or ​​Physical SIM​
    → Family/group: ​​Pocket WiFi​
  2. ​Are you visiting multiple countries or just one?
    → Multiple countries: ​​eSIM​​ or ​​WiFi Router​
    → Single country: ​​Physical SIM​
  3. ​Do you need calls/texts, or just data?
    → Data only: ​​All options work​​.
    → Calls/texts needed: ​​Physical SIM​​ or ​​eSIM with voice add-on​​.
  4. ​How long is your trip?
    → Short trip (1-2 weeks): ​​eSIM​​ or ​​WiFi Router​
    → Long stay (1+ months): ​​Physical SIM​
  5. ​Is your phone eSIM-compatible?
    → Yes: ​​eSIM​​.
    → No: ​​Physical SIM​​ or ​​WiFi Router​​.

​International eSIMs: Are Voice Calls Included?​

​​International eSIMs: Are Voice Calls Included?​

Most travel eSIMs are data-only (no voice calls), but some premium providers offer voice-enabled plans.​​ Always check plan details before buying!

An eSIM works perfectly as your main data source. If you need voice calling, keep your physical SIM for calls. This way, you avoid swapping SIMs overseas: use the eSIM for data and your SIM for voice!

​Top eSIM Providers for International Travelers​

​Top eSIM Providers for International Travelers​

At Trip.com, we deliver unbeatable eSIM prices for every traveler. Light users get affordable maps/email access, while heavy data users enjoy premium streaming and sharing capabilities – all at our signature competitive rates.

Choose your ideal data plan from our wide range (500MB to Unlimited), perfectly tailored to your trip duration and usage needs. With Trip.com eSIM, flexibility and value are guaranteed.

👉Here are some recommended plans:

Country/Region

eSIM Option

Duration

Price

China

500MB/Day

1 Day

AU$0.61

1GB/Day

10 Days

AU$7.38

Canada & US

1GB/Day

3 Days

AU$5.05

1GB/Day

15 Days

AU$21.78

Japan

500MB/Day

3 Days

AU$1.85

500MB/Day

10 Days

AU$5.46

France, Germany, Italy & UK

1GB/Day

3 Days

AU$4.46

10GB

14 Days

AU$12.10

European 32 countries

500MB/Day

1 Day

AU$0.64

1GB/Day

15 days

AU$1.66

Global Regions

1GB/Day

3 Day

AU$5.78

10GB/Day

15 Days

AU$45.81

Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand

500MB/Day

3 Days

AU$1.68

10GB

15 Days

AU$7.17

Middle East Countries

500MB/Day

1 Day

AU$2.59

1GB/Day

7 Days

AU$3.91

​Activate Your Travel eSIM

How to active eSIM

​Step​

​iOS

​Android​

​1. Obtain QR Code​

Contact your carrier to request an eSIM activation QR code (email or physical).

Contact your carrier to request an eSIM activation QR code (email or physical).

​2. Initiate Setup​

Open the ​​Camera app​

Open ​​Settings​​ → ​​Network & Internet​

​3. Locate eSIM Menu​

Tap ​​Mobile Network​​ → ​​Download SIM​

​ or ​

​eSIM Manager​​ (varies by device).

​4. Scan/Start Installation​

Point the camera at the QR code to auto-scan.

Select ​​Download SIM​​ → ​​Scan QR code from carrier​​ (if required).

​5. Install eSIM​

Follow on-screen prompts.- If "Cellular Plan Ready" appears: Go to ​​Settings​​ → Tap the alert.

Follow on-screen prompts to complete setup.

​6. Confirmation​

"Cellular Plan Ready" disappears after installation.

eSIM appears in ​​Mobile Network​​ settings when active.

Important Notes:

  • ​Shared Requirements:​
    • ✓ ​​Stable Wi-Fi connection​​ required during setup
    • ✓ QR codes are ​​single-use​​ and expire after scanning
    • ✗ Physical SIM ​​removal unnecessary​​ (dual-SIM compatible)
  • ​iOS-Specific:​
    Requires ​​iOS 13+​​ (iPhone XS or newer).
  • ​Android-Specific:​
    Paths vary by brand (e.g., Samsung: Settings > Connections > SIM manager).

​How Much Does an eSIM Cost for International Travel?

The prices of international data cards vary by region. Some popular tourist destinations may offer relatively affordable data packages, while in areas with limited network coverage, less competition from operators or less developed economies, the cost of international data cards may be higher.

In addition, using foreign data cards may involve additional hidden charges, such as roaming fees and additional service charges.

The detailed cost still needs to be determined by the operator in the specific country.

Here is a list of the prices you might be interested in, please click on the button of the place you plan to visit. 👇

Country/Region

eSIM Option

Duration

Price

China

500MB/Day

1 Day

AU$0.61

1GB/Day

10 Days

AU$7.38

Canada & US

1GB/Day

3 Days

AU$5.05

1GB/Day

15 Days

AU$21.78

Japan

500MB/Day

3 Days

AU$1.85

500MB/Day

10 Days

AU$5.46

France, Germany, Italy & UK

1GB/Day

3 Days

AU$4.46

10GB

14 Days

AU$12.10

European 32 countries

500MB/Day

1 Day

AU$0.64

1GB/Day

15 days

AU$1.66

Global Regions

1GB/Day

3 Day

AU$5.78

10GB/Day

15 Days

AU$45.81

Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand

500MB/Day

3 Days

AU$1.68

10GB

15 Days

AU$7.17

Middle East Countries

500MB/Day

1 Day

AU$2.59

1GB/Day

7 Days

AU$3.91

Reasons to Choose an eSIM for International Travel

Reasons to Choose an eSIM for International Travel

​Category​

​Advantage​

​Convenience​

• ​​No physical SIM​​: Instant activation online, no swaps or store visits.

• ​​Multi-device support​​: Use on smartphones, tablets, or wearables (e.g., Apple Watch).

​Travel Flexibility​

• ​​Switch plans remotely​​: Buy country/regional plans before landing.

• ​Multi-country coverage​: Single eSIM for regions (e.g., Europe 39 countries).

​Cost Efficiency​

• ​​Cheaper than roaming​​: Save 50-90% vs. carrier international roaming.

• ​​No contracts​​: Pay-as-you-go plans.

​Dual Connectivity​

• ​​Use eSIM + physical SIM simultaneously​: Keep home number for calls + local data abroad.

​Security​

• ​​Remote deactivation​​: Disable eSIM instantly if device is lost/stolen.

​Eco-Friendly​

• ​​Reduces plastic waste​​: No physical SIM production/shipping.

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​Limitations of eSIM for International Travel

Category​

​Disadvantage​

​Device Compatibility​

• ​​Limited to newer devices​​: Requires iPhone XS+/Google Pixel 4+/Samsung Galaxy S20+ or later.

​Coverage Limitations​

• ​​Spotty rural/infrastructure-poor regions​​: Physical SIMs may work better (e.g., Mongolia, Bolivia).

​Tech Barriers​

• ​​Complex carrier support​​: Some operators lock eSIMs (e.g., AT&T US restrictions).

• ​​No quick device swap​​: Re-downloading profiles needed when changing phones.

​Pricing Transparency​

• ​Hidden fees​​: Some carriers charge "eSIM activation fees".

​Repair Complexity​

• ​​Troubleshooting requires carrier support​​: Cannot self-replace like a physical SIM.

Key Takeaways​:

  1. ​Best for​​:
    • Frequent travelers needing instant connectivity
    • Users prioritizing cost savings & eco-friendliness
    • Multi-device households (phones + smartwatches)
  2. ​Think twice if​​:
    • Traveling to remote/developing regions
    • Using older devices
    • Needing a local phone number long-term

Want to have a fun trip abroad? Trip.com eSIM is a must-have!

​​​Traveling abroad? An eSIM is essential. Stay connected 24/7 to book hotels, navigate maps, and discover local gems. Enjoy a smoother, more rewarding trip with uninterrupted internet access.

Choose Trip.com's eSIM – trusted by travelers worldwide for its ​​reliable service and unbeatable prices​​. Get connected now!

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Questions about eSIM

  • What is an eSIM?

    An eSIM is an industry-standard digital SIM built into your iPhone, eliminating the need for a physical SIM card. This innovative feature enables you to switch between SIMs effortlessly, manage eight or more eSIMs, and activate new plans digitally.
  • Does my phone have an eSIM?

    To determine if your phone has an eSIM, you can check your phone's settings. For iPhones, navigate to Settings > Cellular/Mobile Data, and if you see the option to "Add eSIM," your phone supports eSIM. For Android, go to Settings > Connections/Mobile Network > SIM card manager. If you see an eSIM section or an option to "Add eSIM," your device supports it. You can also check for an EID (Embedded Identity Document) number in your phone's settings, often found under "About phone" or "Status". If the EID is present, your phone is eSIM compatible.
  • Does eSIM give you a phone number?

    An eSIM doesn't automatically come with a phone number. Whether an eSIM provides a phone number depends on the specific eSIM plan and provider. Some eSIMs are data-only, providing internet access without a phone number, while others offer the option to assign a phone number, allowing for calls and texts.
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