Airalo eSIM: In-Depth Review for Travelers

Airalo is one of the most talked about eSIMs out there. In the last few years, the US-based company operating in 200+ countries and regions worldwide has built a mixed reputation among international travelers. Some love it, some hate it.

I tested it to see whether it is actually worth it for a totally honest review about this eSIM.

What is Airalo?

Airalo is a U.S.-based eSIM company founded in 2019 as AirGSM Pte. Ltd.that offer local, regional, and global eSIM data plans. Their eSIMs are generally cheaper than roaming and are easier to install than physical SIMs.

Although it's one of the most discussed eSIMs (sometimes not in a good way), Airalo has the merit of having been one of the first eSIMs to appear (and become popular) in the eSIM space.

Is Airalo Legit?

Let's address the elephant in the room. Although you'll find mixed experiences about this eSIM provider online, Airalo eSIM is actually a legit eSIM.

It's used in 200+ countries, with over 20 million active users. So, all these users must mean something, after all, right?

Of course, this doesn't mean that it's perfect. If you rely heavily on consistent service, SMS/voice, or 24/7 support, or you perhaps want to make calls and texts with your eSIM, let me tell you straight, Airalo might not be for you.

If you're instead OK with the occasional hiccup and want to get access to the widest coverage (200+ countries), and very affordable connectivity, this eSIM is difficult to beat.

Which eSIM Plans Does Airalo Offer?

Airalo is an eSIM, which means you don't have to buy a physical SIM or insert anything in your phone. It's essentially a digital version of a SIM that connects your phone to the cellular network.

They offers three eSIM options:

• Local eSIMs
• Regional eSIMs
• Global eSIM

Each plan varies based on your destination and the duration of your data plans.

If you are looking for a specific destination, you can use their local eSIMs which are available in more than 200+ countries and regions.

If your trip includes staying in multiple countries in a region, like Europe or Southeast Asia, for example, you want to use their regional eSIMs.

If you, for any reason, have a more global travel itinerary (maybe you are a digital nomad or a remote worker like me), Airalo even offers global eSIMs to keep you connected almost worldwide.

Airalo Pricing

Airalo's eSIM pricing varies based on several factors, including the destination, data allowance, and other specifics of the package chosen. Here's a rough breakdown of what you can spend based on some destinations I personally visited during my travels:

• Thailand: $18 for 20GB (30-days plan)
• Portugal: $19 for 20GB (30-days plan)
• Canary Islands: $10 for 3GB (30-days plan)
• Georgia: $13.50 for 3GB (30-days plan)

When I compare Airalo’s price tag to that of other eSIM providers, the brand typically falls in the low range. From my experience with many eSIM providers, they are among the cheapest eSIM providers out there.

How to Activate an Airalo eSIM

I've used Airalo on a number of international trips for this review so I'm kinda of a pro in using it. Their setup is overall easy: it's digital, straightforward, and offers a good user-friendly experience compared to many other eSIMs.

TL;DR - in the screenshot below, you can find the process in a nutshell:

Here's a more detailed step-by-step guide:

Step 1: Select eSIM type and destination

You can go either on their website or on their mobile app, which is our personal favorite for installing, purchasing, and monitoring data usage.

Step 2: Choose a data package

Decide on the eSIM type, local, regional, or global. Then, depending on your choice, you can select either the specific country or region you'll be visiting

Step 3: Purchase your chosen plan

You'll need to pick your preferred payment method (Apple Pay is supported!), punch in the details, and you're good to go. You can expect a swift email confirmation once the transaction is approved.

Step 4: Install and activate your data plan:

After buying your chosen plan, you'll need to install it on your phone. I highly recommend installing the eSIM before your trip: this means once you land at your destination, you’ll be able to activate your package on the spot without needing to search for a reliable internet connection.

You can install your eSIM by using the Airalo website or the Airalo app (my favorite method). If you decide to use the Airalo website, you have three options:

• QR Code Method: after buying your plan, you'll receive a QR code. To activate it, go to your phone's settings to add a new cellular plan and scan this code. Your eSIM will start downloading. If you don't know how to do it, they have dedicated tutorials both for iPhone, and Android.
• Manual Installation: I don't recommend it as it's the most complex method, but if you prefer to input details yourself or you face any hiccups with the QR code, you'll have to head to your phone settings, look for the eSIM or cellular plan addition option, and input the details supplied by Airalo. If you have any issues, here's a video for iPhone and one for Android that perfectly explains this process.

eSIM Setup Using the Airalo App

If you decide to use the Airalo mobile app instead, you will still have both the QR code and manual methods at your disposal, just like the website. However, the mobile app offers an additional method, which is the one we always use: the automatic installation. This is the simplest and most streamlined way to get connected if you have iOS 17 or above.

After you've checked out, you'll notice an option for auto eSIM installation. Just tap on it, and the app will handle the rest. Within moments, your eSIM will be installed, activated, and ready to use.

My Experience Using Airalo

I've used their eSIM plans in various countries a bunch of times during my digital nomad travels worldwide, including North America, Europe, and Southeast Asia, so I have plenty of experience with this eSIM.

They offer a ton of countries around the world, their plans are relatively cheap and their app is super intuitive. I personally also use a ton their Airmoney loyalty program on which I saved a ton of money every time I top up or buy a new eSIM.

There are definitely some areas of improvement, though, particularly in terms of reliability, as sometimes their service is honestly not good, especially in remote areas. Sometimes, the eSIM loses the signal for no reason and then it comes back which can be really annoying.

There is also some work to do with their support. They don't have a 24/7 chat and it's simply too slow. I had an issue once with my eSIM in Sri Lanka, and when I reached out to them for an issue, they told us to simply switch my phone and put it in Airplane mode (which of course, it didn't work). As an alternative, they asked me to send them a bunch of technical things.

That day, I absolutely needed a backup and sent all the documents they asked for immediately but unfortunately they did reply after an entire day, of which point I had already both a local eSIM, which was pretty annoying as I had to swap my home SIM to use it (I would have preferred an eSIM in that moment).

And by the way, the solution they proposed, also didn't work. I ended up asking for a refund and in the end they gave me some credit, which was a good outcome anyway for me, so all good. I told myself: "What can you ask for such an affordable eSIM price?"

The Pros and Cons of Using Airalo

After having used Airalo in various parts of the world, we know the ins and outs of this eSIM provider and we've had our fair share of shining experiences and those that had room for improvement. Here are the advantages and disadvantages that we noticed:

Alternatives to Airalo eSIM

While Airalo is a very affordable choice overall, depending on your travel patterns, data requirements, or specific regions you frequent, some other eSIM providers might just hit the sweet spot for you. Here are some eSIM providers I've personally tested and I would recommend checking out:

Holafly

Holafly comes with a steeper price tag than Airalo. But this is because they offer unlimited data plans, which is a very tempting choice for travelers who don't want to worry about running out of data mid-journey.

Yesim

Another great budget-friendly alternative is Yesim, which generally offers better prices in certain regions, like Southeast Asia. One of their most interesting features is their pay-as-you-go global plan, which totally removes the need to commit to a large data package upfront. They also have a referral program that lets you earn credits (called "Ycoins") to put towards future eSIMs just by recommending the service to your friends. I used this a lot.

Nomad eSIM

Although they don’t cover as many countries as Airalo, Nomad offers the option to buy more data, and sometimes also offers unlimited data options. This is a cool feature for those who have hefty data needs like me. Unlike Airalo, Nomad eSIM also offers SMS-only plans and two providers to choose from in the USA.

Airalo eSIM FAQs

Does Airalo allow mobile hotspot?

Yes, most Airalo plans support hotspot/tethering, but it can depend on the local carrier. Make sure to always check the plan details!

Is Airalo data only?

Yes, most Airalo eSIMs are data-only and don’t include calls or SMS, unless you buy a Discover+ plan with phone number support.

Is Airalo reliable?

Generally yes, especially in popular destinations. But the reliability can vary based on the country and the local network.

Does Airalo have a VPN?

No, Airalo doesn’t include a VPN. You’ll need to use a separate VPN app if you need it.

Does Airalo work on a cruise ship?

No, Airalo doesn’t work at sea. It relies on local cellular networks, not satellite connections.

Does Airalo work with Verizon?

Yes, if your Verizon phone is unlocked and eSIM-compatible, Airalo should work fine.

Is Airalo data per day?

No, Airalo plans give you a total data allowance (like 5GB or 10GB) for a set number of days, not per day.

When should I install my Airalo eSIM?

You should always install it while connected to Wi-Fi, ideally before your trip. But only activate it when you’re ready to start using the data!

Will Airalo work on my phone?

If your phone is unlocked and supports eSIM, it should work. You can always check compatibility on Airalo’s website.

Does Airalo have a phone number?

Most plans don’t come with a phone number. Only specific plans like Discover+, include one for calls and SMS.

What is AirMoney Airalo?

AirMoney is basically Airalo’s store credit. You earn it through referrals or promotions and can use it to buy new eSIMs or top up your existing one.

Does Airalo have hotspot?

Yes, hotspot is allowed on most Airalo plans, but check the plan's description to be sure!

Does Airalo have unlimited data?

Some plans are labeled “unlimited,” but they often include a daily data cap after which speeds are reduced.

Does Airalo work with AT&T?

Yes, as long as your AT&T phone is unlocked and eSIM-compatible.

Does Airalo work with locked phones?

No, Airalo won’t work on carrier-locked phones. Your phone must be unlocked to use an Airalo eSIM.

Is Airalo 5G?

Some Airalo plans offer 5G, but most are 4G/LTE, depending on the local carrier and phone compatibility.

Is Airalo safe from hackers?

Airalo itself is secure, but make sure to always use secure networks. You can also consider a VPN when browsing on public Wi-Fi as the safest option.

Do Airalo eSIMs expire?

Yes, they do expire. Each Airalo eSIM has a set validity period (e.g., 7, 15, or 30 days) and expires after that, even if you have data left.

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