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Airalo eSIM Review (2025): Affordable Global Data for Travelers

Airalo offers affordable eSIMs in 200+ countries for travelers who want instant connectivity without physical SIM swaps. Read our 2025 review covering pricing, setup, and top alternatives.

4.5

/5 | 41 reviews ⭐️

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🗺 HQ :United States

📆 Last Update :

10/2025

📊 Key Takeaways

Airalo has established itself as the leading eSIM solution for travelers, offering instant connectivity in over 200 countries.

using an Airalo e-sim

What is an Airalo eSIM?

An eSIM (embedded SIM) is a digital SIM card integrated into your device. Airalo, the world's first eSIM provider, lets you purchase and install local, regional, or global data plans via an app or website.

How does it work?

  • Download the Airalo app (iOS/Android)
  • Choose a plan
  • Install the eSIM (via QR code, direct method, or manual installation)
  • Activate it upon arrival (connects automatically)

Understanding Airalo eSIM Technology

eSIM pricing for popular countries

An eSIM (digital SIM card) is a SIM card integrated directly into your phone's hardware. Unlike traditional physical SIM cards, it operates 100% digitally and allows you to instantly activate a mobile plan without physical handling.

Key Airalo Features

📱 Airalo's Key Features (2025) — Travel eSIM, Discover+, Airmoney
📱 Feature 🌟 Advantage 💰 Benefit
Country-specific plans – Optimized local connection – Rates close to local pricing
Regional plans – Multi-country coverage (e.g., Europe, Asia) – Simplicity: one eSIM for the entire itinerary
Global plans (Discover+) – Single eSIM usable in 130+ destinations
– International number included (USA) depending on plan [details]
– Data + calls/SMS possible depending on offer
– Ideal for multi-continent travel
Airmoney (loyalty program) – 5–10% cashback on purchases [see] – Immediate discount on future plans
Hotspot sharing – Tethering allowed if network & device compatible [help] – Share data with laptop/tablet
Mobile app & management – Purchase, QR installation, usage tracking in app – 1-click top-ups, no physical store needed
Multi-eSIM & compatibility – Store multiple eSIMs on phone (5–10 on iPhone depending on model) [info] – Switch between plans by country
Global coverage – 200+ countries and regions [source] – Connection upon landing, no roaming
Support & assistance – 24/7 help via app/help center – Quick resolution on the go
5G (depending on country/operator) – 5G access available on some global/regional plans – Higher speeds when 5G is offered
Airalo ratings

Airalo Pros and Cons

🌍 Airalo — Pros, cons and recommended profiles (2025)
Pros ✅ Cons ⚠️ Ideal for 👥
– No roaming fees: you only pay for purchased data
– Global coverage (200+ countries/regions) with local, regional and global plans
– Simple installation via app (QR code / direct installation)
– Hotspot sharing generally allowed depending on plan
– Airmoney loyalty program to reduce cost of future plans
– Capped data: no true unlimited
– Little to no traditional calls/SMS (data-only); use VoIP/messaging apps
– eSIM compatibility required (recent smartphone)
– Rates sometimes higher than local SIM on site
– Customer support mainly in English (multilingual support varies)
– Frequent travelers and digital nomads
– Short-stay tourists wanting to avoid roaming
– Professionals traveling to multiple countries
– Users comfortable with apps and QR codes

What types of devices are compatible with Airalo eSIMs?

Airalo mobile interface

Airalo requires an unlocked and eSIM-compatible device:

  • iPhone: XS and newer (up to 8 eSIMs stored, 2 active)
  • Android: Google Pixel 3+, Samsung Galaxy S20+, etc. (check manufacturer specs)
  • Others: Some iPads, smartwatches and PCs with eSIM (list on airalo.com)

Warning: Older models or those locked by a carrier won't work.

Plans and pricing

Airalo offers a wide range of eSIM plans to meet travelers' specific needs, whether for short stays in one or multiple countries:

💳 Airalo — eSIM Pricing (2025 update)
Plan type 📦 Data 📶 Validity ⏳ Price 💶 Description 📝
Country-specific plans 1 GB 7 days from $4.50 USD – Ideal if staying in a single country
– Variable rates by destination (local plans 200+ countries)
Regional plans 3 GB 30 days $13.00 USD – Designed for traveling in multiple countries in the same region (e.g., Europe)
– Smooth transition without changing eSIM
Global plans 1 GB 7 days $15.00 USD – Covers many countries with a single global eSIM
– Practical option for multi-continent itineraries

What are the benefits of using Airalo for international travel?

Countries covered by Airalo
  • No roaming fees: Pay only for purchased data (often much cheaper than carrier roaming plans)
  • Global coverage: 200+ countries and regions with local plans
  • Simplicity: Installation in just a few clicks
  • Hotspot included: Share your data with other devices
  • Airmoney: Earn credits on each purchase, reusable on future plans (e.g., 10 GB, 1 GB, etc.)

Installation and activation guide

Airalo on App Store

For iPhone

  1. Go to Settings > Cellular > Add Cellular Plan
  2. Scan the QR code provided by Airalo
  3. Select your plan and activate it
airalo mobile application on Google Play Store

For Android

  1. Go to Settings > Connections > SIM Card Manager
  2. Tap "Add Mobile Plan"
  3. Scan the Airalo QR code

Airalo compared to its alternatives

🌐 Travel eSIM (2025) — Airalo vs Holafly vs Nomad vs Ubigi
Provider 🏷️ Specialty 🎯 Strengths ✅ Limitations ⚠️ Rating ⭐
Airalo International mobile data plans – Extensive coverage (200+ countries/regions)
– Local, regional, global plans
– Simple app (QR code / direct installation)
– Some "Discover+" eSIMs include international calls/SMS (depending on destination)
– Majority of plans "data-only" (no voice/SMS)
– Speed & price vary by country/operator
★★★★☆ 4.3/5
Holafly Unlimited plans for frequent travelers – Monthly unlimited data options
– Hotspot/tethering available on some plans
– 24/7 multilingual support
– Higher prices than local plans
– "Unlimited" often subject to usage policies (throttling)
★★★★☆ 4.6/5
Nomad Affordable multi-country plans – Competitive rates (local/regional/global plans)
– Clear app, fast activation
– Coverage 200+ destinations
– Data-only for most plans
– Variable network quality by country
★★★★☆ 4.4/5
Ubigi High-speed global plans – Coverage 190–200+ destinations
– Good operator agreements (wide 4G/LTE, 5G rollout)
– Quick setup
– No true unlimited data
– Support sometimes less responsive per feedback
★★★★☆ 4.5/5

What to do in case of technical or service issues with Airalo?

Airalo customer support

Issues happen, but here's how to resolve them:

  • No connection: Toggle airplane mode on/off or manually select a network in Settings > Network
  • Slow data: Check partner network (e.g., 4G vs 5G) under "Additional Info" in the app
  • Support: Contact customer service via the app (Response usually within 24h, though sometimes judged slow by users)
  • Solution: Test the eSIM before leaving your country to anticipate issues

Conclusion

Airalo simplifies your travels with reliable and affordable connectivity in over 200 countries, without the hassle of physical SIM cards.

Its advantages — no roaming fees, fast activation, hotspot — appeal to digital nomads and frequent travelers, despite limitations like uneven 5G coverage or occasionally slow support.

arrow CTA right

What is Airalo?

Airalo has been revolutionizing mobile connectivity for international travelers since 2019. Ahmet Bahadir Özdemir and Abraham Burak created this innovative platform that offers eSIMs (embedded SIMs) to globetrotters.

How does Airalo work? The application allows you to connect to local mobile networks without the need for physical SIM cards. With just a few clicks, you can get internet access in over 190 countries.

Airalo ratings

Airalo stands out for its speed and flexibility:

  • Buy a data plan in under 5 minutes
  • Use it on any eSIM-enabled smartphone

The popularity of Airalo is constantly growing. In 2023, more than 500,000 people around the world adopted this solution to stay connected while traveling.

Why such a success? Airalo seduces travelers by:

  • Its ease of use
  • Its competitive rates
  • The wide variety of countries covered

By simplifying access to mobile connectivity abroad, Airalo is transforming the experience of international travelers. No more hassles with local SIM cards or exorbitant roaming fees!

Airalo features

1. Extensive international coverage

Airalo connects you in more than 190 countries thanks to its eSIM data plans. Activate your connection instantly and stay online almost anywhere in the world. This solution is particularly practical for globetrotters.

Countries covered by Airalo

Critical review: Although broad international coverage is a major asset, the quality of the network may vary depending on the country and the local operator.

2. Adaptable data plans

Choose from a diverse range of Airalo packages. Whether you need a few hundred megabytes or several gigabytes, you'll find an offer that's right for you. Validity periods range from a few days to several months.

  • Short-term packages for getaways
  • Long-lasting options for big trips

Critical review: This flexibility makes it possible to meet the specific needs of users. However, in some countries, the rates may be higher than the local offers.

3. User friendly mobile application

Manage your eSIMs easily with the Airalo application, available on iOS and Android. Its intuitive interface makes it easy to buy, activate and manage your packages.

airalo mobile application on Google Play Store

Critical review: The app offers a smooth user experience, but a few occasional bugs and compatibility issues have been reported by some users.

4. Fast activation

Say goodbye to long waits! Activate your Airalo eSIM in a few minutes. This feature is valuable for travelers who need a connection as soon as they arrive in a new country.

Airalo's mobile interface

Critical review: While quick activation is a major advantage, some users have encountered technical difficulties requiring customer support intervention.

5. Ongoing customer support

Airalo takes care of you 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Access customer support via the app, email, or live chat. Whatever your question or problem, help is always at your fingertips.

Airalo customer support

Critical review: This continuous service is particularly appreciated by travelers crossing different time zones. However, longer response times were noted during busy periods.

6. Use on multiple devices

Connect with Airalo on a variety of devices: smartphones, tablets, and even some laptops. This versatility allows you to stay online on all of your screens.

Critical review: While cross-device compatibility is a big advantage, it's crucial to check the compatibility of your devices before buying an eSIM, as not all of them support this technology.

Airalo rates

Airalo adapts its rates according to the regions and the amount of data you need. Discover an overview of the available offers:

Regional packages

Airalo regional package pricing

Travel across an entire continent with a single package. Airalo offers options adapted to the major regions of the world.

In Asia, connect from $5:

  • 1 GB of data
  • Valid for 7 days

For Europe, take advantage of a more extensive offer starting at $10:

  • 3 GB of data
  • Can be used over 30 days

Travelers in North America benefit from a generous package at $15:

  • 5 GB of data
  • Valid for 30 days

Global packages

AIralo global package pricing

Travel the world without worrying about borders thanks to Airalo's global packages.

The package Global accompanies you for one month for $20:

  • 5 GB of data
  • Valid in many countries

For frequent travelers, the package Global Plus offers a long term solution:

  • 20 GB of data
  • Can be used for 180 days
  • Starting at $50

Country-specific packages

Airalo rates for France

Do you need a connection for a particular country? Airalo offers tailor-made packages.

En France, stay connected from $4:

  • 1 GB of data
  • Valid for 7 days

For the u.s., opt for a larger offer at $9:

  • 3 GB of data
  • Can be used over 30 days

En australia, Airalo offers you an intermediate package at $8:

  • 2 GB of data
  • Valid for 30 days

These varied rates allow everyone to find a solution adapted to their needs, whether for a short stay or a long trip across several countries.

Alternatives to Airalo

1. AirHub E-SIM

Airhub homepage

AIRHUB E-SIM connects users to the Internet in over 200 countries and regions. Simply download and install a digital data plan. AIRHUB is distinguished by its ease of use and its speed of activation.

Let's compare AIRHUB E-SIM to Airalo:

Coverage: AIRHUB covers slightly more countries than Airalo with its 200+ destinations.

Flexible packages:

  • AIRHUB offers a variety of data plans
  • Airalo offers a wider range in terms of volume and duration

Both applications are intuitive and allow quick activation of eSIMs. Regarding prices, AIRHUB remains competitive, but like Airalo, costs vary according to destinations.

Critical review: AIRHUB E-SIM is perfect for those looking for extensive global coverage and fast activation. However, for very specific data plans or less common destinations, Airalo can offer more flexibility.

2. Yesim

Yesim homepage

Yesim offers an eSIM solution for a mobile internet connection in more than 126 countries. No more roaming fees and changing SIM cards! The Yesim app works with eSIM compatible devices and offers instant connectivity.

Let's compare Yesim to Airalo:

Coverage: Yesim covers 126+ countries, slightly less than Airalo and its 190+ destinations. Despite this, Yesim is still a solid choice for most trips.

Flexibility:

  • Yesim offers various data plans
  • Airalo offers greater variety in terms of volume and duration

The Yesim interface appeals to many users for its usability. In terms of prices, Yesim is competitive, but prices vary depending on the destination.

Critical review: Yesim is perfect for frequent travelers visiting its 126+ countries covered. For rarer destinations, Airalo keeps the advantage with its wider coverage.

3. esims.io

esims.io homepage

esims.io stands out by aggregating more than 4000 data plans in more than 200 countries. This platform allows users to compare and choose the best eSIM offers available, thus meeting very specific needs.

Let's compare esims.io to Airalo:

Coverage: With over 200 countries, esims.io competes with Airalo.

Flexible packages:

  • esims.io offers exceptional flexibility thanks to its 4000+ packages
  • Users can find very specific plans

The esims.io interface, available on web and mobile, allows you to compare offers. However, it may lack the simplicity of a dedicated application like Airalo's.

In terms of prices, esims.io often makes it possible to find more advantageous offers by comparing multiple suppliers.

Critical review: esims.io will appeal to users who like to compare offers to find the best value for money. However, the platform may confuse those who prefer a turnkey solution like Airalo.

Conclusion

Airalo is revolutionizing connectivity for international travelers. With a coverage in over 190 countries, this eSIM platform offers a practical and flexible solution to stay connected abroad.

Airalo highlights include:

  • Flexible packages adapted to different needs
  • One intuitive mobile app
  • One 24/7 customer support

However, a few challenges remain:

  • La Network quality may vary depending on the country
  • Of occasional technical problems upon activation
  • Of rates sometimes higher Only local offers

Despite these drawbacks, Airalo remains a attractive choice for frequent travelers. It eliminates the need to juggle different SIM cards and greatly simplifies the management of connectivity abroad.

Before using Airalo, be sure to check the compatibility of your device And of compare costs with local offers. With these precautions, Airalo can dramatically improve your connectivity experience when traveling internationally.

sign-up page Airalo
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