7 eSIM Providers for Global Travelers: Flexible Plans, AI Assistants & More

There was a time when, if you went abroad for work or vacation, the only way to stay in contact with friends and loved ones was either through costly landline calls or by sending a postcard that would arrive after you returned home. Obviously, all of that changed when cell phones came along, making it possible to call anyone from anywhere at any time. However, it was still expensive, with high roaming fees that often made it not worthwhile. Enter the eSIM.

Now that eSIM technology is widely available, although not yet truly ubiquitous, it is possible to stay connected overseas at a significantly lower cost than in the past. Most travel eSIMs are data-only, which means traditional calls and SMS aren’t included, but you can use apps like WhatsApp, FaceTime, or Skype to connect with family and friends as if you were at home. With an eSIM, you can download a mobile plan straight onto your device, enjoy fast data, and hop between countries without ever swapping a physical SIM.

However, with numerous eSIM providers available, it can be challenging to determine which one will offer the most value and the least stress when traveling in 2025. That’s why we’ve gathered seven to present to you, from AI-powered companions to flexible pay-as-you-go plans.

1. Maaltalk

Best for: AI-powered travel support and global connectivity in one app

When it comes to combining cutting-edge technology with global coverage, Maaltalk is a newer player to watch. In addition to eSIM, it’s a full-fledged AI travel companion designed to make every trip smoother.

Here’s what makes Maaltalk unique:

• Worldwide reach: Stay connected in over 180 destinations without roaming fees.
• Flexible plan types: Whether you need unlimited data, daily bundles, fixed data, regional passes, or local options, Maaltalk has you covered.
• Recharge on the go: Unlike many eSIMs that expire once you hit your data limit, Maaltalk’s plans are rechargeable. Just top up via the app – no need to reinstall.
• Local partnerships: The brand partners with in-country networks to ensure reliable, high-speed service wherever you land.
• Exclusive perks: Enjoy regular promotions and discounts, including 10% off if you use the AI Product Pick feature in the MaaltalkNow app.
• 24/7 travel support: Need help while you’re abroad? Customer service is on hand.

And then there’s the free MaaltalkNow AI app, which goes beyond connectivity. Travelers get tools like:

• Smart Lens: Point your camera for instant translations and cultural tips.
• Budget Tracker: Stay on top of your travel spending.
• AI Agent: A digital assistant to help plan routes, answer questions, or suggest local experiences.

In short, Maaltalk is ideal for tech-savvy travelers who want their eSIM and their travel planning tools neatly rolled into one. Since it’s still newer and less established than long-running providers, it’s worth testing with a smaller plan first.

2. Airalo

Best for: Affordable prepaid plans in multiple regions

Airalo is one of the most recognized names in the eSIM world, particularly among travelers seeking affordable, no-frills connectivity. With plans available in over 200 countries, it’s perfect for people hopping between destinations.

Why choose Airalo? Its marketplace approach means you can pick and choose from local carriers, giving you flexibility without a hefty price tag. The app is simple to use, and you’ll often find deals on regional bundles (like Europe-wide data packs).

That said, Airalo’s customer support can sometimes be slower compared to some newer players, and you won’t find AI-driven extras. But for budget travelers, it’s a safe and solid choice.

3. Nomad eSIM

Best for: Frequent flyers who need consistent connectivity

Nomad has built its reputation around longer-term plans that cater to frequent travelers and digital nomads. You’ll find competitive prices for multi-country packages, particularly in Asia and Europe.

The platform also makes it easy to track your data usage and extend plans, which is helpful for longer trips. Nomad’s pricing can be slightly higher than that of the very cheapest providers, but the stability and coverage often make it worth the extra few dollars.

If you’re a business traveler who values reliability over flashy extras, Nomad is a strong option.

4. Holafly

Best for: Unlimited data in popular destinations

Holafly has carved out its niche with unlimited data eSIMs, making it a go-to for travelers who stream, upload, or work heavily while abroad. The app is simple to use, and its plans cover around 190 destinations.

The trade-off? Holafly’s unlimited plans come with fair use policies and speed throttling in place after heavy usage. They also typically do not allow for data top-ups – you’ll need to purchase a new plan. Still, if your priority is never running out of data, Holafly is worth a look.

5. Ubigi

Best for: Built-in eSIM connectivity in cars and devices

Ubigi is a little different from the others on this list because it’s part of Transatel, a major telecom player. You’ll find its eSIMs not only for phones, but also for connected cars (including brands like Jaguar and Land Rover).

This makes Ubigi especially attractive for road trippers or people renting vehicles abroad. The app supports flexible global data plans, and Ubigi often integrates directly into devices, making setup seamless.

It’s not the cheapest option compared to providers like Airalo or Nomad, but if you want vehicle connectivity alongside personal data, Ubigi is unmatched.

6. BNESIM

Best for: Customizable voice and data packages

Unlike many competitors, BNESIM offers both data and voice packages, which is handy if you need a traditional phone number while traveling. It also supports conference calls and offers business-friendly features, which make it a standout option for professionals.

The platform allows for custom plan building, so you can tailor coverage and data amounts to fit your exact trip. The downside is that the interface can be more complicated than those of simpler eSIM apps, and its user base is smaller than that of most others on this list. For power users, BNESIM can be helpful, but for casual travelers, it may feel overly complex.

7. GigSky

Best for: Travelers with Apple devices

GigSky has been around for years, and it’s known for being one of the first eSIM providers integrated into Apple’s ecosystem. If you’re an iPhone or iPad user, activating a GigSky plan is a seamless process.

They offer coverage in over 190 countries, and you’ll find a mix of short-term and longer-term plans. The pricing, however, is often higher than Airalo or Nomad, so convenience comes at a premium. For Apple users who value hassle-free setup, GigSky remains a convenient choice.

Featured image by Nong on Unsplash