Top eSIM services for digital nomads in 2025

Working remotely while exploring new countries is more accessible than ever. But reliable internet is still the backbone of the lifestyle. If you’ve ever landed in a new city, needed to get online fast, and realized you don’t have a SIM card or worse, no coverage you already know the struggle.

That’s where eSIM technology steps in.

What is an eSIM, and why is it perfect for digital nomads?

An eSIM is a virtual SIM card built directly into your device. Instead of swapping plastic chips in every country, you download a data plan and activate it instantly from an app. Most modern smartphones like the iPhone 11+, Pixel series, and Samsung Galaxy S20+ support eSIM.

For full-time travelers and location-independent workers, the benefits are obvious:

• no need to buy physical SIMs in every country
• instant activation from your phone
• flexible plans tailored to regions or global use
• competitive prices for short and long stays

eSIMs eliminate one of the biggest digital nomad headaches: inconsistent internet access. But with so many providers, which one should you trust?

Top eSIM providers for digital nomads in 2025

Here’s a closer look at the most reliable eSIM services for remote workers this year, ranked by real-world performance, price, and coverage.

Airalo

Overview
Airalo remains the most recognized eSIM service for travelers, offering regional and global plans via a user-friendly mobile app.

Why nomads use it
It’s ideal for short stays or quick setups in unfamiliar countries. Regional bundles (like Asia or Europe) make it easy to hop borders without switching providers.

Pros

• global coverage in 190+ countries
• intuitive app
• low-cost short-term plans
• easy regional switching

Cons

• no unlimited data plans
• speeds vary in remote areas

Best for:
Nomads just starting out or moving frequently between countries. If you’re planning fast-paced travel, this list of must-have tools and gadgets will pair perfectly with a service like Airalo.

Holafly

Overview
Holafly focuses on unlimited data plans in over 100 countries, with particularly strong performance in Europe and Asia.

Why nomads use it
It’s one of the few providers offering truly unlimited data a game-changer for remote workers doing video calls, uploads, or streaming.

Pros

• unlimited data in key destinations
• 24/7 support
• ideal for Zoom, large files, and YouTube

Cons

• higher price points
• possible speed caps after heavy use

Best for:
Digital nomads who rely on consistent, high-volume data. For those doing intensive work while traveling, Notion can help you organize your life and projects on the go.

Nomad eSIM (by Truphone)

Overview
Nomad is gaining traction with budget-conscious travelers who need flexibility and good coverage.

Why nomads use it
It offers excellent rates on short-term and regional plans and is generally cheaper than most competitors.

Pros

• pay-as-you-go options
• frequent discounts
• reliable coverage in major cities

Cons

• less polished app interface
• fewer options for niche countries

Best for:
Backpackers and budget travelers who switch countries often. You might also want to explore the top remote jobs requiring no experience to fuel your journey while staying flexible.

Ubigi

Overview
Ubigi is known for fast speeds and strong support for devices beyond phones like tablets or laptops with built-in eSIM support.

Why nomads use it
It’s a favorite among digital workers who use multiple devices and value stable, high-speed connections.

Pros

• quick activation
• fast speeds in urban hubs
• ideal for tech setups beyond mobile

Cons

• slightly more complex configuration
• regional plans not as extensive

Best for:
Tech-savvy nomads who work from coworking spaces or cafes. Discover how Sarah built her remote lifestyle to learn how digital tools and reliable internet access shaped her path.

Other options worth exploring

A few more names deserve mention:

• GigSky – decent global reach, but often pricier than the top providers
• Flexiroam – hybrid model with both eSIM and physical SIM; a good fallback
• Maya Mobile – newer to the game, but offering unlimited plans with good reviews

Comparison table: which eSIM suits you best?

Provider	Unlimited?	Ease of Use	Coverage	Price Range	Affiliate?
Airalo	❌ No	✅ Very Easy	🌍 190+	💰 Low	✅ Yes
Holafly	✅ Yes	✅ Easy	🌍 100+	💰💰 Mid-High	✅ Yes
Nomad	❌ No	✅ Easy	🌍 100+	💰 Low	✅ Yes
Ubigi	❌ No	⚠️ Moderate	🌍 100+	💰💰 Mid	✅ Yes

How to choose your ideal eSIM provider

Here’s a quick way to narrow it down:

• Traveling on a budget? Start with Nomad or Airalo
• Need unlimited streaming or video calls? Holafly is your best option
• Using a laptop or tablet for work? Go with Ubigi

Many digital nomads rotate between multiple providers based on destination and usage. For example, some use Airalo for flexible short stays and switch to Holafly when staying longer in one country.

Stay connected, stay productive

Being a digital nomad means freedom but it also means taking responsibility for your own tools. A good eSIM setup ensures you’re always just a few taps away from being online.

To build a well-rounded remote lifestyle, check out what every digital nomad needs to thrive from connectivity to mindset.