Airalo eSIM review: Is it worth it?

Staying connected while travelling has always been a hassle. Roaming charges are expensive, local SIM cards can be inconvenient, and free WiFi isn’t always reliable or available.

I have personally spent a lot on roaming packages with my network provider, until the first time I was introduced to eSIM services. I have tried multiple, but there is one I keep coming back to.

I have now used Airalo in multiple countries, across 5 continents. It features in my top travel tips whenever I’m talking to people. For me it is absolutely the best eSIM solution.

Here I give you my full Airalo eSIM review, answer some of the most common questions, and everything else you need to know to make your decision.

What is an ESIM?

An eSIM (embedded SIM) is a digital version of a traditional SIM card that is built into your phone. Instead of swapping out a physical SIM, you simply download an eSIM profile and activate it on your device.

This makes it incredibly useful for travellers. You can buy an eSIM for your destination at home, install it before you leave, and activate it the moment you land – I personally find it very satisfying being connected before you have even hit passport control!

Key Benefits of eSIMs

• No need to swap SIM cards – Keep your home SIM in your phone while using an eSIM for data.
• Instant setup – No need to visit a store; just buy and activate online.
• Save money – An eSIM tends to be significantly cheaper than your home network roaming charges.
• Hotspot other devices – with Airalo you can hotspot other people and other devices, something I have found a life saver at times 

Short on time? Here’s a quick pros and cons reviewing Airalo eSIMs

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Is my phone compatible with Airalo eSIMs?

Not all phones support eSIM technology, so before purchasing, you need to check compatibility. Here is the full list of supported devices

Most newer iPhones, Google Pixel devices, and flagship Samsung models support eSIMs. Airalo will also tell you before purchasing if your phone is compatible, as a final check, I really like this level of transparency from them.

How to manually check if your phone supports an eSIM:

1. On iPhone, go to Settings > Mobile Service > SIMs. If you see an option to add an eSIM, your phone is compatible.
2. On Android, go to Settings > Network & Internet > SIMs. If there’s an option to add an eSIM, your phone supports it.

Is Airalo worth it? My experience with their eSIMs

After using Airalo on multiple trips, I can confidently say it is the most convenient travel connectivity option I’ve tried. It has saved me a lot of time and money.

I’ve used single-country Airalo eSIMs in South America, North America, Africa, Europe, and Asia. Here’s how it performed:

• Connection reliability – I never experienced any major issues. Speeds were generally good for browsing, streaming, and using maps.
• Setup process – Quick and easy. The Airalo app is a standout feature. It takes about 5 minutes to install and activate.
• What if I run out of data? – This has happened to me on two occasions and you are able to top up your eSIM instantly.
• Customer service – I haven’t had issues, so have not extensively tested this. The one time I had a question, they responded quickly. They have 24/7 customer support, available every day across all time zones.

What type of eSIMs Airalo offers

How much does Airalo cost?

As you can see from these images, plans are variable. You select the quantity of data you want and how long you need the data to be valid for. 

Once you have activated you plan, you can see in the app how much is left, if you’re running low, you have the option to top up. My key advice here is to get slightly more than you think you need at the beginning, as buying more at the outset is slightly cheaper than topping up.

Discount code for Airalo

Airalo regularly offer discounts to customers, there are two good savings live at the moment:

1. For 10% discount add the code AIRALOESIM10 at checkout
2. New users can get a 15% discount by adding NEWTOAIRALO15

TOP TIP! Are you looking to save money when travelling abroad? Make sure you have the best travel debit card and ensure you avoid hidden currency fees like a pro

How to setup your Airalo eSIM

I recommend getting the Airalo app, as it makes this process even easier, although it can be done without the app. The full installation guide for all device types can be found on their website. Below I run through an example of how to install and activate the SIM on iPhones.

Note, to install you need a WiFi connection, which is why I always install the eSIM before I leave home, then activate when I land

How to install the eSIM on iPhone – Do this at home before you leave

1. OPEN the Airalo app.
2. TAP My eSIMs.
3. TAP the eSIM you want to install.
4. TAP View Instructions.
5. TAP Direct.
6. TAP Install eSIM.

1. TAP NEXT to move through the step-by-step guide.
2. TAP Continue twice.
3. WAIT a few minutes for your eSIM to activate.
4. TAP Done.

1. ADD a Cellular/Mobile Plan Label to the newly installed eSIM.
2. TAP Secondary.
3. ENTER Airalo or your preferred label.
4. TAP Done.
5. TAP Continue.

1. SELECT your Primary line for calls and text messages.
2. TAP Continue.
3. SELECT your Primary line for iMessage & FaceTime.
4. TAP Continue.
5. SELECT your Airalo eSIM for Cellular/Mobile Data.
6. ENSURE that Allow Cellular Data Switching is turned off.
7. TAP Continue.

How to activate your international data – Do this once you land at your destination

1. GO to Settings.
2. TAP Cellular or Mobile.

1. TAP your eSIM.
2. ENSURE that the eSIM is enabled. If not, toggle Turn On This Line.
3. CHECK if you need to enable Data Roaming on your device by opening the Airalo app and viewing your eSIM instructions.

1. TOGGLE Data Roaming ON or OFF.
2. GO back to Cellular or Mobile Settings.
3. TAP Cellular or Mobile Data and select your eSIM. Congratulations, you will then be connected

Pros and Cons of eSIMs from Airalo

Pros of Airalo eSIM

1. Global Coverage: Airalo offers eSIMs in over 200 countries, ensuring connectivity almost anywhere you travel.
2. Affordable Data Plans: Airalo’s eSIM plans are generally more cost-effective than traditional international roaming charges
3. Easy Installation and Setup: The Airalo app simplifies the process of purchasing and installing eSIMs, allowing travelers to set up their data plans before departure.
4. Flexible Plan Durations: Airalo offers various plan durations; 7, 15, and 30 days. 
5. Data Sharing Capability: Airalo eSIMs support data sharing, enabling users to create personal hotspots for other devices, something other eSIMs limit.
6. No Physical SIM Required: As an eSIM, there’s no need to find, store, or swap physical SIM cards, reducing the risk of losing or damaging your home SIM.
7. Loyalty Program: Airalo’s Airmoney Rewards Program offers cashback on purchases, providing additional value for frequent users.

Cons of Airalo eSIM

1. Data-Only Plans: Several Airalo eSIMs do not include voice call or SMS capabilities. Check the plan before you buy, if calls are included it looks like the below. No number can be limiting for users who require a local phone number. You still keep your existing phone number for calls and texts at your network providers rate.
2. Only a few Unlimited Data Options: Airalo plans only offer unlimited data in some markets (look for the below). Very heavy data users will likely need another option 
3. Cheaper options for long term travellers: If you are planning to be in a country for several months it is likely a local physical SIM will be better value.
4. Compatibility Issues: Not all devices support eSIM technology, especially older model phones.
5. Customer Support Limitations: Some users have reported that, despite being 24/7 in all time zones, Airalo’s customer support have been slower to respond. This wasn’t my experience but is worth noting.

FAQ’s about Airalo and other eSIM cards

Do I get a new phone number with Airalo?

A standard Airalo eSIM data plan will not assign you a new phone number. This means you won’t receive a local phone number when you purchase a typical Airalo eSIM.

Your existing phone number remains unchanged, you can keep using your primary SIM for calls and texts while the Airalo eSIM handles data . In other words, an Airalo eSIM won’t replace or change your personal number; it simply provides an affordable data connection.

An exception to this, Airalo has recently introduced a special eSIM with calling/texting capabilities. The Discover+ Global eSIM comes with its own international phone number (U.S.-based) that allows for calls and SMS . This is a pricier global plan intended for travelers who need voice and text in addition to data.

What if my phone is locked to a network provider?

You can’t install an eSIM if your device is network or carrier-locked. In the majority of markets globally, if you find your phone to be locked you can contact your network provider and ask them to unlock your phone.

In December 2021 networks were banned from locking devices in the UK. so anything after this date will be unlocked as a default.

Can I top up my esim if I run out of data?

Yes. You can easily top up (recharge) your Airalo eSIM with more data if you run low. Airalo’s eSIM plans are prepaid, and you can purchase additional data packages through the Airalo app or website at any time.

The process is straightforward: log in to your Airalo account, go to “My eSIMs,” select the eSIM in question, and tap the “Top Up” option. From there, choose a top-up data package and purchase it to instantly add data to your existing eSIM profile.

It is slighlty cheaper to purchase in the first place rather than top up, so my advice is get a bit more than you need when you first purchase the eSIM.

Does an esim slow down your phone?

No – using an eSIM will not slow down your phone.

An eSIM functions just like a physical SIM card in terms of network connection, so it has no impact on your device’s performance or internet speed . In fact, the only difference is the SIM’s form factor (digital vs. physical); the quality of service (signal strength, 4G/5G speeds, etc.) remains the same. 

Can people still call or text me when I have an esim?

Yes, you can still receive calls and texts

As long as your original phone number’s SIM is still active (in a dual-SIM setup), you remain reachable on that number for calls and texts even when you’re using an Airalo eSIM for data.