Best eSIMs for Digital Nomads

Working remotely while travelling gives you the freedom to explore new destinations without putting your career on hold. You could spend a month working from a café in Portugal, take video calls from an apartment in South America, or move between countries while running your own online business. However, there is one thing you need wherever you go: a reliable internet connection.

This is where an eSIM can make travelling as a digital nomad much easier.

Instead of searching for a local SIM card every time you arrive in a new country, you can purchase a mobile data plan online and install it directly on a compatible smartphone. Depending on the provider and plan, you can connect to a local mobile network shortly after arriving at your destination.

But with so many eSIM providers available, how do you know which one is right for you?

In this guide, we compare some of the best eSIMs for digital nomads, including Airalo, Saily, Nomad and Ubigi. We will look at what each provider offers, who it may suit best, and what to consider before choosing a plan for your next trip.

What Is an eSIM and Why Do Digital Nomads Need One?

An eSIM is a digital SIM built into a compatible device. Unlike a traditional SIM card, which you physically insert into your phone, an eSIM allows you to download a mobile network profile and activate a supported plan electronically. For digital nomads, this can be a convenient way to stay connected when moving between destinations.

Imagine arriving in a new country after a long flight. You need directions to your accommodation, want to contact your host, and have an online meeting scheduled for the following morning. Having a travel eSIM ready can make it easier to get connected without first finding a mobile shop.

Some of the main eSIM benefits include:

• Convenience: Purchase and install a plan online before travelling.
• Flexible data plans: Choose a package based on your destination, trip length and expected usage.
• Less dependence on public Wi-Fi: Use mobile data when you need to work outside your accommodation.
• Multiple destinations: Regional and global plans can cover several countries, depending on the package.
• Dual-SIM functionality: Many compatible phones let you keep your usual SIM active while using an eSIM for mobile data.

An eSIM is not a replacement for every internet solution. Mobile coverage varies by destination, and some plans do not include a local phone number or allow unrestricted hotspot use. If your income depends on working online, it is worth checking these details before purchasing.

Best eSIMs for Digital Nomads Compared

The best eSIM for you depends on how you travel and work. Someone taking a short holiday may only need a small data package, while a remote worker or digital nomad spending several weeks abroad may need a larger plan or an option with generous data allowances.

Here is a quick comparison of eSIM providers worth considering:

eSIM provider	Best suited for	What to look for
Airalo eSIM	Flexible travel plans	Country-specific, regional and global packages
Saily eSIM	Travellers who want a straightforward app-based service	Country and regional plans, plus available security features
Nomad eSIM	Digital nomads comparing data allowances and prices	Destination-specific packages and regional options
Ubigi eSIM	Frequent travellers and connected devices	Travel data plans and supported device options

These are practical starting points rather than a universal ranking. Coverage, pricing, data allowances and hotspot limits differ between destinations and plans, so compare the options available for your actual trip.

1. Airalo eSIM:

Best for Flexible Travel Plans

Airalo is a popular option for travellers who want to buy mobile data without sourcing a physical SIM card in every destination. Its eSIM store offers plans for individual countries, regions and international travel. According to its website, Airalo covers more than 200 locations and provides different package options, including selected unlimited-data plans.

Why digital nomads might choose Airalo

One of Airalo’s main advantages is its range of destination options. If you plan to spend a few weeks in one country, you can look for a country-specific plan. If your itinerary includes several countries within the same region, a regional package may be more convenient. For example, someone travelling between Spain, Portugal and Italy could compare the cost of separate country plans against a European regional plan.

Airalo may be worth considering if you:

• Travel between countries regularly.
• Want to compare different data allowances.
• Prefer buying and managing plans through an app.
• Need a plan for a specific destination rather than a long-term mobile contract.

What to consider

Not every plan includes unlimited data, and the amount of data available, validity period and supported networks vary. You should also check whether your chosen package permits hotspot use if you plan to connect a laptop. If you are interested in Airalo, compare the available packages for your destination before deciding.

2. Saily eSIM:

Best for a Straightforward Travel eSIM

Saily is another provider to compare if you want to purchase and manage travel data digitally. It offers destination-based plans and additional security-related features in its app. For digital nomads who spend time working from cafés, coworking spaces, airports and accommodation, it is useful to consider both connectivity and the tools available to help manage your online experience.

Why digital nomads might choose Saily

Saily is worth exploring if you prefer managing your travel connectivity through an app and want to compare available data packages for different destinations. Its additional security features may also appeal to people who work while travelling. However, remember that mobile data and online security are separate considerations. An eSIM does not automatically make every online activity secure.

Saily may be a good option to investigate if you:

• Want to compare country-specific and regional plans.
• Prefer managing your travel data through an app.
• Are interested in additional security-related features.
• Want to compare data allowances and prices before committing.

What to consider

Check whether the plan you choose covers all your destinations and offers enough data for your work routine. Features and availability can vary, so confirm what is included in the package rather than assuming every plan offers the same benefits.

3. Nomad eSIM:

Best for Comparing Data Packages

Nomad is a travel eSIM provider offering data plans for individual destinations and selected regions. It is another option for digital nomads who want to compare package sizes and validity periods before travelling. Choosing a data package that matches your actual usage can help you avoid paying for more data than you need or running out halfway through a working week.

Why digital nomads might choose Nomad

If you are staying in one country for several weeks, you can compare the available plans by data allowance and validity. If you are visiting multiple destinations, check whether a regional option would be more practical.

Nomad may suit you if you:

• Want to compare different data allowances.
• Prefer choosing a plan for a particular trip.
• Need mobile data for navigation, messaging and everyday work tasks.
• Want to compare the cost of local and regional coverage options.

What to consider

A cheaper package is not necessarily the best value if it expires before your stay ends or does not provide enough data for your workload. Check the supported networks, coverage, activation conditions and top-up options. If you plan to work remotely for a month or longer, calculate the likely total cost rather than looking only at the initial purchase price.

4. Ubigi eSIM:

Best for Frequent Travellers and Compatible Devices

Ubigi offers mobile data plans for international travel and supports a range of compatible devices. It is worth comparing if you frequently travel between destinations or want to investigate connectivity options beyond your primary smartphone.

Why digital nomads might choose Ubigi

Digital nomads sometimes use more than one connected device while working. You might have a smartphone, tablet or laptop that supports eSIM technology, depending on the model. Ubigi provides an option to investigate if you want to compare travel data plans for supported devices and destinations.

It may suit you if you:

• Travel internationally throughout the year.
• Want to compare plans for different destinations.
• Use a compatible connected device for work.
• Prefer checking available packages before each trip.

What to consider

Device compatibility is particularly important. An eSIM service that works on your phone may not offer the same options for your tablet or laptop. Check whether your device is supported, which networks are available at your destination and whether your selected plan allows the type of usage you need.

How to Choose the Best eSIM for Your Remote Work Lifestyle

Comparing providers is only the first step. Before purchasing an eSIM, think about how you work, where you are travelling and how much you depend on mobile data.

Here are the main factors to consider:

1. Check Coverage in Your Destination

Not every eSIM works in every country, and coverage can vary even within the same country. Before buying, confirm that your provider supports your destination and identify the local mobile networks used by the plan where this information is available. If you are travelling through several countries, check whether a regional or global package covers every stop on your itinerary. Remember that coverage in a city centre may be very different from coverage in a rural area, on an island or in a remote mountain town.

2. Estimate How Much Data You Need

Your data needs depend on what you do online. Someone who mainly checks emails and sends messages will generally use less data than someone who spends hours on video calls or uploads large files.

As a starting point, think about your typical workday:

• Light use: Emails, messaging, maps and occasional browsing.
• Moderate use: Regular browsing, cloud applications, social media and some video meetings.
• Heavy use: Frequent video calls, large uploads, streaming and connecting other devices through a hotspot.

These categories are only a guide. Actual usage depends on meeting quality, application settings, background activity and how much time you spend connected to Wi-Fi. If you work online every day, check your current phone’s data usage before travelling. It can provide a more useful estimate than guessing.

3. Check Hotspot and Tethering Limits

This is especially important for remote workers. A mobile hotspot allows you to share your phone’s internet connection with another device, such as your laptop. This can be helpful when your accommodation’s Wi-Fi is unreliable or you need to work from somewhere without a suitable internet connection. However, not every travel eSIM offers the same hotspot allowance. Some plans restrict tethering or limit how much data you can share.

Before purchasing, confirm:

• Whether hotspot use is permitted.
• Whether there is a daily or total tethering limit.
• Whether your laptop can connect using the plan.
• Whether the provider applies speed restrictions.

If you regularly work from your laptop, these details may matter more than the advertised starting price.

4. Compare the Total Cost

The cheapest eSIM is not always the most economical choice. A small data package might seem affordable, but you may need several top-ups if you use mobile data throughout the day. A larger package could offer better value if you know you will use the data.

Compare plans using the same criteria:

• Total price.
• Data allowance.
• Number of days the plan remains valid.
• Included destinations.
• Hotspot restrictions.
• Top-up availability.

If you travel frequently, it is also worth comparing regional plans with separate country-specific packages.

5. Consider How Long You Will Stay

A short city break and a three-month digital nomad stay require different approaches. For a weekend away, a small package may be sufficient. For a month-long stay, you may prefer a larger allowance or a plan with an easy top-up option. If you regularly move between countries, check whether your eSIM can remain installed and be used with compatible plans in your next destination. You should not assume that an existing data package will automatically work across borders.

6. Check Device Compatibility Before Buying

Your phone must support eSIM technology, and it may also need to be unlocked to use a travel provider’s plan. Compatibility depends on the device model, regional version and mobile carrier restrictions.

Before purchasing, confirm that:

• Your smartphone supports eSIM.
• Your device is not locked to a carrier that prevents use of another provider.
• The eSIM supports your destination.
• You have a reliable internet connection available for installation.

It is generally sensible to install your eSIM before departure when possible, while following the provider’s activation instructions. Some plans start their validity period at installation, while others start when the eSIM connects to a supported network.

Is an eSIM Enough for Working Remotely?

An eSIM can be a useful part of your remote work setup, but it should not be your only consideration if you rely on a stable internet connection to earn a living. Mobile data is excellent for staying connected while moving around, but it does not guarantee that you will always have enough speed or coverage for an important video call.

A more dependable approach is to have a primary connection and a backup option.

For example, you could use your accommodation’s Wi-Fi for most of your workday and keep mobile data available as a backup. If the Wi-Fi stops working, you may be able to connect your laptop to your phone, provided your plan permits hotspot use.

For more advice on choosing a suitable connection when working abroad, we cover tips on finding a reliable internet connection while travelling.

You should also consider the type of work you do. Someone who writes articles or manages social media may be able to work comfortably with a modest connection, while a person who attends multiple video meetings or transfers large files may need a stronger backup solution.

If you are staying somewhere for several weeks, test the internet connection before committing to the accommodation for a longer period.

Tips for Using an eSIM While Travelling as a Digital Nomad

Once you have chosen a provider, a little preparation can make your travels easier.

Install Your eSIM Before You Leave

Where the provider allows it, install the eSIM while you still have access to a reliable Wi-Fi connection. Read the activation instructions carefully and avoid deleting the eSIM if you encounter a connection issue, as some plans may not allow you to reinstall it easily.

Keep Your Main Number Available

Many compatible phones support dual-SIM functionality, allowing you to retain your usual number while using a travel eSIM for data. This can be useful if you need to receive calls or verification messages on your regular number. Check your phone settings and your home carrier’s roaming charges before travelling. Set the travel eSIM as your mobile data line where appropriate, and review the settings that control data roaming for each SIM.

Monitor Your Data Usage

If your plan has a fixed allowance, check your usage regularly. Video meetings, cloud backups and automatic photo uploads can consume more data than expected. You can reduce unnecessary usage by downloading large files over Wi-Fi, limiting background updates and adjusting video quality when possible.

Download Important Information Offline

Before travelling between destinations, download maps, accommodation details, travel documents and any files you might need when your connection is unavailable. This will help you continue with essential tasks even if you temporarily lose mobile coverage.

Have a Backup Connection

If missing a meeting could affect your work, do not rely entirely on a single connection. Depending on your circumstances, a backup could include accommodation Wi-Fi, a second mobile provider, a local SIM or access to a coworking space with reliable internet. The best choice will depend on your destination, budget and the consequences of losing connectivity.

Choosing the best eSIM for digital nomads comes down to finding a plan that suits your destinations, data usage and working routine.

Airalo, Saily, Nomad and Ubigi are all worth comparing, but there is no single provider that will be the best choice for every traveller. A small data package might be enough for a short trip, while someone working online every day may benefit from a larger allowance or an unlimited-data option with suitable hotspot conditions.

Before purchasing, check network coverage, data limits, plan validity, device compatibility and the total cost. Most importantly, remember that an eSIM is only one part of a reliable remote work setup.

With the right connectivity plan and a sensible backup, you can spend less time worrying about internet access and more time enjoying the flexibility of working from anywhere.

FAQ

1. What is the best eSIM for digital nomads?

The best eSIM depends on your destination, budget and data requirements. Airalo is worth comparing for flexible destination plans, Nomad and Ubigi for their available travel packages. Compare the actual plans for your trip before choosing.

2. Can I use an eSIM in multiple countries?

Yes, some eSIM providers offer regional or global plans that cover multiple countries. However, not every eSIM includes international coverage, so check the supported destinations before travelling.

3. Can I use an eSIM for remote work?

Yes. An eSIM can provide mobile internet for emails, online research, messaging and other remote work tasks. If you need to connect your laptop, check whether the plan supports hotspot use and offers enough data for your workload.

4. Are eSIMs better than physical SIM cards for digital nomads?

An eSIM can be more convenient because you can purchase and install a plan digitally without inserting a physical card. However, physical SIM cards may offer better value in some destinations or for longer stays. Compare local options with travel eSIM plans before deciding.

5. Do eSIMs provide unlimited internet?

Some providers offer plans advertised as unlimited, but conditions vary. Speed restrictions, fair-use policies or hotspot limits may apply. Read the details of the specific plan rather than assuming all usage is unrestricted.

6. Can I keep my WhatsApp number when using a travel eSIM?

In most cases, yes. WhatsApp is linked to the phone number registered with your account, rather than requiring that number’s SIM to provide your mobile data connection continuously. You can generally keep using your existing WhatsApp account with a travel eSIM, provided your phone has internet access and you do not change your registered number unnecessarily.