The Best SIM and eSIM Cards I’ve Used for Around the World Travel
Staying connected whilst backpacking around the world used to mean hunting down local SIM cards in every country, dealing with language barriers, and wrestling with tiny SIM card ejectors in hostel dorm rooms. Thankfully, eSIM technology has transformed how long-term travellers stay online, making it easier than ever to maintain consistent mobile data across multiple countries without the hassle of physical SIM cards.
If you are planning an extended backpacking trip or round the world adventure, choosing the right eSIM provider can save you money, time, and plenty of stress. This guide reviews four popular eSIM providers specifically for young travellers and backpackers who need reliable connectivity across multiple destinations.
What is an eSIM and Why Should Backpackers Care?
An eSIM (embedded SIM) is a digital SIM card built into your smartphone that allows you to activate a mobile plan without needing a physical SIM card. For backpackers, this technology is brilliant because you can purchase and activate data plans instantly through an app, switch between providers without swapping SIM cards, and maintain multiple plans simultaneously if needed.
Most smartphones released after 2018 support eSIM technology, including recent iPhones, Samsung Galaxy models, and Google Pixel devices. Before committing to an eSIM provider, check your phone’s compatibility.
Key Factors for Choosing a Backpacker eSIM
When selecting an eSIM for long-term travel, consider coverage across your planned destinations, overall cost for multi-country plans, data speeds and reliability, ease of purchase and top-up, and customer support availability. Unlike short holidays where you might prioritise speed, backpackers often need to balance performance with budget across dozens of countries.
Airalo: The Backpacker’s Best Bet
Best for: Overall value, extensive coverage, and reliable performance across multiple countries
Airalo has established itself as the go-to eSIM provider for backpackers and long-term travellers, and for good reason. The platform offers exceptional value and flexibility that aligns perfectly with the unpredictable nature of backpacking adventures.
Coverage and Flexibility
What sets Airalo apart is its comprehensive coverage spanning over 200 countries and regions. The platform offers both individual country plans and regional packages, which is ideal for backpackers moving between neighbouring countries. The regional plans cover areas like Europe, Asia Pacific, and Latin America, allowing you to travel freely without constantly purchasing new plans.
Pricing and Value
Airalo consistently offers competitive pricing that suits backpacker budgets. Their global plans start affordably, and the regional packages provide excellent value when you are spending extended time in one area. The ability to top up data as you go means you only pay for what you need, rather than committing to expensive long-term contracts.
User Experience
The Airalo app is remarkably intuitive, even for first-time eSIM users. Installation takes just minutes, and the interface makes it simple to monitor data usage, purchase additional plans, and switch between packages. This ease of use is invaluable when you are navigating a new country and need connectivity sorted quickly.
Reliability
Airalo partners with established local networks in each country, ensuring dependable service quality. Backpackers consistently report strong network performance across diverse destinations, from bustling Asian cities to remote South American towns. The stability of connection means you can rely on it for essential tasks like booking accommodation, navigation, and staying in touch with family.
Customer Support
The 24/7 customer support via the app provides peace of mind when travelling across time zones. If issues arise, the support team responds promptly and resolves problems efficiently, which is crucial when you are far from home.
Saily: The Nord Security Entry
Best for: Security-conscious travellers who want integrated VPN protection
Saily is a relatively new player in the eSIM market, launched by Nord Security (the company behind NordVPN). As an emerging service, it brings some fresh features but lacks the track record of more established providers.
Coverage and Offerings
Saily covers over 150 countries with a straightforward approach to data plans. They offer both country-specific and regional packages, with a clean app interface that makes purchasing relatively simple.
Pricing Structure
The pricing sits in the middle range, neither the cheapest nor most expensive option. Whilst not prohibitive, the rates do not offer compelling advantages over more established competitors for backpackers watching every pound.
Network Quality
Being newer to the market, Saily’s network partnerships are still developing. Some backpackers report inconsistent performance, particularly in less touristy destinations. The service works reliably in major cities and popular travel hubs but can be less dependable in rural or remote areas where backpackers often venture.
VPN Integration
One unique feature is the integrated VPN service, leveraging Nord Security’s expertise. This adds a layer of security when using public WiFi in hostels or cafes. However, most backpackers can achieve similar protection through standalone VPN apps without tying it to their mobile data provider.
Verdict
Saily shows promise but needs more time to mature. The limited track record and occasional reliability issues make it a riskier choice for extended travel where consistent connectivity is essential.
Yesim: The Budget Alternative
Best for: Ultra-budget travellers staying in well-covered Southeast Asian or South American regions
Yesim positions itself as an affordable eSIM option, which naturally attracts budget backpackers. However, lower prices come with notable trade-offs.
Pricing Approach
Yesim offers some of the cheapest data rates amongst eSIM providers, particularly for popular backpacker destinations in Southeast Asia, South America, and Eastern Europe. For short stays in these regions, the savings can be substantial.
Coverage Limitations
The coverage network is smaller than competitors, spanning around 120 countries. This limited reach becomes problematic on around the world trips where you might visit more off-the-beaten-path destinations. You could find yourself unable to get service in certain countries, forcing you to seek alternative solutions mid-trip.
Service Reliability
User experiences with Yesim vary considerably. Some backpackers report satisfactory service in major destinations, whilst others encounter frequent disconnections, slow speeds, and difficulty accessing customer support. The inconsistency creates uncertainty, which is frustrating when you depend on connectivity for essential travel tasks.
Customer Support Challenges
The customer support infrastructure appears underdeveloped compared to larger competitors. Response times can be slow, and resolution of technical issues often requires persistent follow-up. When you are navigating a new country and need immediate assistance, inadequate support becomes a significant liability.
When It Might Work
Yesim could suffice for backpackers staying primarily in well-covered regions where budget is the absolute top priority. If you are spending several months in Southeast Asia or South America and can tolerate occasional service hiccups, the cost savings might outweigh the drawbacks.
Drimsim: The Automatic Option
Best for: Travellers who prioritise convenience and move frequently between countries
Drimsim takes a different approach by offering a single plan that automatically works in over 190 countries. This hands-off solution appeals to travellers who want simplicity above all else.
How It Works
Drimsim operates on a pay-as-you-go model where you load credit onto your account and data is automatically deducted as you use it. The service automatically connects to local networks when you arrive in a new country, eliminating the need to purchase separate plans for each destination.
Pros and Cons
The main advantage is the set-and-forget convenience. You never need to think about buying new plans or switching packages. However, this convenience comes at a cost. Drimsim’s per-megabyte pricing tends to be higher than competitors, especially in popular backpacker destinations. For budget-conscious travellers spending months on the road, these costs accumulate significantly.
The lack of fixed data packages also makes budgeting more difficult. Without knowing exactly how much data will cost in your next destination, it is harder to plan expenses accurately.
Best For
Drimsim suits travellers who move frequently between countries and prioritise convenience over cost savings. If you are on a whirlwind trip hitting numerous countries in quick succession and budget is less of a concern, the automatic connectivity might justify the premium pricing.
Making Your Choice
For most backpackers embarking on extended around the world travel, Airalo emerges as the clear frontrunner. The combination of extensive coverage, competitive pricing, reliable performance, and excellent user experience addresses the core needs of long-term travellers. The flexibility to choose between country, regional, and global plans allows you to optimise costs throughout your journey.
Travel Packing List: What To Take Backpacking Around The World
Drimsim works for specific travel styles where convenience trumps cost, particularly for fast-paced trips through many countries. Saily needs more development before it can compete seriously with established providers. Yesim might appeal to ultra-budget travellers in limited regions, but the reliability concerns and coverage gaps make it risky for comprehensive backpacking trips.
Practical Tips for Using eSIMs Whilst Backpacking
Regardless of which provider you choose, keep these tips in mind. Check your phone’s eSIM compatibility before leaving home and test your eSIM installation before departure to ensure you understand the process. Download offline maps for your destinations in case of connectivity issues. Monitor your data usage regularly through the provider’s app to avoid unexpected charges. Keep some emergency credit on your account for unplanned top-ups. Save customer support contact details offline so you can access them if needed.
Travel Planning and Preparation: Things To Do Before Travelling
Many travellers use a dual SIM setup, keeping their home SIM card for important banking notifications whilst using an eSIM for data. This approach provides backup connectivity and maintains access to services requiring your home number.
The Future of Travel Connectivity
eSIM technology continues evolving rapidly, with more providers entering the market and coverage expanding. For backpackers, this competition drives prices down whilst improving service quality. The days of scrambling for WiFi passwords or paying extortionate roaming charges are largely behind us, replaced by affordable, flexible data access in nearly every corner of the globe.
As you plan your backpacking adventure, investing time in choosing the right eSIM provider pays dividends throughout your journey. Reliable connectivity enhances safety, simplifies logistics, and allows you to share your experiences with loved ones back home without breaking your budget.
Whether you are island hopping in Southeast Asia, trekking through South America, or exploring the backstreets of European cities, staying connected should be the least of your worries. With the right eSIM solution, it will be.
