Staying connected is key when you're heading to the United Kingdom. This review will help you pick the best eSIM based on factors like data packages, cost, where you can get service, and customer service. I want to make it easy for you to choose so you don't waste time or money.
What Factors Should Be Considered When Choosing a Travel eSIM Brand?
Types of Data Packages
Think about what you need. Do you need just a little bit each day or a bunch for the whole trip? What you pick affects both cost and the ease of your trip.
Cost
Prices can vary. Paying more initially might give you more data, saving you cash later. It's better to compare the cost per GB or per day instead of just the overall price.
Coverage (Operator)
It would help to choose a provider that works with operators with strong coverage all over the UK. You don't want to lose the signal!
Hotspot Share
If you bring more than one gadget or travel with others, sharing a connection can save you some cash. Make sure your eSIM can do this.
Customer Service
Good support is vital. Look for an eSIM provider that's quick to help in different ways, like chatbots or email. This is super helpful if something goes wrong while you're traveling.
Top 3 United Kingdom Travel eSIM Brands Recommended
Airalo
Airalo keeps it simple with straightforward data packages and has good coverage throughout the UK through Uki-mobile. They're all about giving you good service at a fair price.
iRoamly
iRoamly is excellent because it's got a bunch of different plans. They work with big operators like T-Mobile and AT&T, offering everything from daily to unlimited data. This is perfect for all kinds of travelers.
Holafly
Holafly is all about making it easy with only unlimited data plans. They use solid UK operators like Telefonica and Hutchison. The downside? You cannot share your data through hotspots.
United Kingdom Travel eSIM Package Comparisons
Feature | Airalo | iRoamly | Holafly |
Types of Data Packages | Total Type | Unlimited / Daily / Total | Unlimited |
Data Range | 1/2/3/5/10/20 GB | 1/5/10/20/Unlimited GB | Only Unlimited |
Validity Period (days) | 7/15/30 | 1/3/5/7/10/15/20/30 days | 1 to 90 |
Speed | LTE | 4G | 3G/4G/LTE/5G |
Hotspot/Tethering | Yes | Yes | No |
Operator | Uki-mobile | T-Mobile / AT&T | Telefonica/Hutchison/EE Ltd |
Customer Service | Online Chatbot | Chatbot/WhatsApp/Email/INS | Chatbot/WhatsApp |
Airalo / iRoamly / Holafly United Kingdom Travel eSIM Price Comparison
Airalo | iRoamly | Holafly | |
7 Days | Total: 1 GB, $5.00 | Unlimited, $14.00 Total: 5 GB, $5.50 Total: 20 GB, $15.00 Daily: 1GB, $7.00 | Unlimited, $29.00 |
15 Days | Total: 2 GB, $7.50 | Unlimited, $25.00 Total: 5 GB, $6.50 Total: 20 GB, $17.00 Daily: 1GB, $14.00 | Unlimited, $51.00 |
30 Days | Total: 5 GB, $15.00 Total: 10 GB, $22.50 Total: 20 GB, $36.00 | Unlimited, $45.00 Total: 5 GB, $7.00 Total: 10 GB, $10.00 Daily: 1GB, $27.00 | Unlimited, $75.00 |
Summary
If you don't use much data, Airalo's simple plans cover short trips. But it's not so great if you need lots of data.
iRoamly's UK travel eSIM is the best bang for your buck, with tons of plans that fit any need at a lower price than Holafly.
For those of you who always need to be online, Holafly is the way to go, even though it's pricier and you can't share your data.
FAQ
Can I use my eSIM in countries outside of the United Kingdom?
No. The UK eSIM is designed exclusively for use within the United Kingdom. If you're traveling to other places, you might need regional or global eSIM plans.
Is my phone/tablet compatible with an eSIM?
Most new phones and tablets work with eSIMs. There are ways to check it:
search on our eSIM compatible list;
open your device's specs via settings;
or contact the manufacturer to be sure.
Can a travel eSIM make calls or send text messages?
Most of the time, UK travel eSIMs are all about data. You might have to use apps like Skype, Facetime or WhatsApp if you need to call.
How do I determine how many GB packages I should buy?
Use a daily or weekly data calculator to help you figure out how much you usually use and what you'll do online. Pick a plan that fits your needs without going overboard to save some cash.