Deep Review: Top 3 eSIMs for Europe Travel - 30+ Countries

When you're traveling through Europe, staying connected is a big deal. You want to post pics, check maps, and chat just like you do at home. 

But finding an ideal and reliable travel eSIM is not easy. That's why I'm here to break down the best eSIM options for you—Airalo, iRoamly, and Holafly. We'll look at their data plans, prices, and more, so you can pick the best one without any fuss.

What Factors Should Be Looked At When Choosing a Travel eSIM Brand?

Types of Data Packages

Different eSIM providers have different plans like total, daily, or unlimited. As you pick an eSIM for travel, reflect on your itinerary to determine the appropriate plan. For example, you might want a plan that offers daily flexibility or unlimited data for heavy Internet access. Or just a fixed number of GB to satisfy the estimated connectivity needs.

Cost

The prices for eSIMs can be all over the place—some charge per GB or per day. Select a plan that suits your budget and data usage, and go for a higher data allowance to prevent costly charges from exceeding your limit.

Coverage (Operator)

Good coverage is a must, especially when you're hopping from one European country to another.  Therefore, an eSIM supported by carriers with strong networks across the continent is a good choice. Providers usually list their network partners on the product page, and check before purchasing to ensure a stable connection.

Hotspot Share

Traveling with more than one gadget or with friends? Sharing your connection can save you a lot of hassle and money. The eSIM plan being considered should support this capability, though it's essential to be aware of any sharing restrictions, such as a daily limit of 500MB.

Customer Service

Good help is hard to find, right? Make sure your eSIM provider is easy to reach—whether through chatbots, WhatsApp, or email. It will make your travel easier if something goes wrong.

Top 3 Europe Travel eSIM Brands Recommended

Airalo

Airalo offers total data packages, which are perfect for those with a clear understanding of their data needs and budget. With a network of local operators in each country and readily available online chat support, it ensures you're well-connected throughout your journey. 

iRoamly

iRoamly distinguishes itself with an array of plans, providing unparalleled flexibility that caters to any traveler's needs. With plans ranging from daily, total to unlimited, they compete with Airalo's total packages and Holafly's unlimited options. 

Moreover, its daily GB plans offer a unique advantage, appealing to those who prefer to manage their daily data expenses, especially since such options are not commonly available from other providers. iRoamly also boosts the service with dedicated support accessible through chat, WhatsApp, and email, ensuring that travelers receive help whenever required.

Holafly

Holafly is all about unlimited data plans. They're perfect if you don’t want to worry about running out of data. However, they do limit how much hotspot data you can use each day, so keep that in mind when choosing the eSIM plan for your multiple devices.

Europe Travel eSIM Package Comparisons

Airalo / iRoamly / Holafly Europe Travel eSIM Price Comparison

Summary

If you don't use much data, Airalo provides smaller plans like the 1GB option for 7 days, which is perfect for a short trip. However, keep an eye on your usage, as you may consume your data quicker than expected.

For those of you who chew through a lot of data, iRoamly’s Euro travel eSIM is the way to go. They've got plans for everyone, from 1GB daily plans, fixed data allowance, to totally unlimited access. For example, you can grab 10GB-7 days, 20GB-15 days, and daily 1GB or even go for the unlimited plan. They're ideal for anyone who needs non-stop internet. Plus, they've got great customer support to help you out.

Holafly is suitable for a long-term European trip, like over 60 days. The unlimited data means you won't have to worry about running out, but keep in mind that their hotspot option has limits and can get pricey.

FAQ

Can I use my eSIM in countries outside of Europe?

Regional plans work only for specific areas. Traveling through several neighboring countries? You might want to choose another regional, like an Asian eSIM plan, or global plan that provides worldwide coverage.

Is my phone/tablet compatible with an eSIM?

Most smartphones and tablets are compatible with eSIMs. To verify, you can consult your device's specifications or inquire with the manufacturer, or better yet, search through our comprehensive eSIM-compatible devices list to confirm your device's compatibility.

Can travel eSIM make calls or send text messages?

No. All the three eSIM brands we introduced here are about data and do not include calls or texts. If you need to make calls, be sure to check the terms of service first; if it doesn't support them, consider using alternative apps like WhatsApp for calling and messaging.

How do I figure out how many GB packages I should buy?

Use the iRoamly data calculator to assess your regular online behavior, such as app usage, web surfing, downloads, and more. It can help estimate how much data you need for one day, a week, or a month so you can choose a plan that will meet your data needs without a shortfall.

Who are the top SIM Card & Mobile Network Providers in Europe?

Here are some of Europe's top operators, each known for their extensive coverage in specific countries:

• Vodafone: Pervasive coverage in Germany, Italy, and the UK.

• Orange: Prominent in France and Spain, offering reliable service.

• Deutsche Telekom: Distinguished for its solid network in Germany.

• Telefonica: The preferred choice in Spain for excellent connectivity.

To explore all your options, check the complete list of operators from your eSIM provider.