If you’re a frequent traveler looking for top global prepaid SIM and eSIM plans, here’s a curated overview of the best options for 2025—covering both physical prepaid SIMs and modern eSIM plans tailored for global flexibility, affordability, and ease of use:
Global eSIM Providers (Top Picks for 2025)
1. Saily
- Best overall eSIM: Offers coverage in 200+ countries, 5G support, and plans starting from around $1.89 for 1 GB/7 days.
- Unlimited data available: Saily Ultra offers plans such as $33.24 for 10 days unlimited.
- Security edge: Developed by NordVPN, it adds enhanced privacy features.
- User experience: Highly praised for its simple app and fast setup.
2. Nomad
- Flexible plans across 200+ countries, starting at $4 for 1 GB/7 days.
- Offers local, regional, and global passes with seamless network switching.
- Great app, easy activation, and 24/7 support.
3. Airalo
- Covers 200+ countries, with plans from about $4.50 for 1 GB/7 days.
- Offers regional and global packages and a user-friendly app for quick activation.
4. Holafly
- Ideal for heavy data users with unlimited data in 160+ countries, starting at $6.90 for one day.
- Known for excellent customer support and generous refund policies.
- Note: Subject to fair-use policies—after a cap (e.g., 1 GB/day), speeds may throttle.
5. Ubigi
- Wide coverage (190–200+ countries), 5G-enabled, with both short-term and long-term options.
- Competitive pricing, starting from as low as $2–$2.90 for short-term plans.
- Business-friendly features and reliable app.
6. Jetpac
- Super-affordable: $1 for 1 GB/4 days globally.
- Offers perks like lounge access when flights are delayed and free VPN.
7. aloSIM
- Covers over 175 countries, with plans starting at $4.50, and includes a free secondary phone number via Hushed.
8. GigSky
- Strong for cruise and in-flight use; compatible with Apple ecosystem and offers a free 100 MB trial in 120+ countries.
9. Free Trial Providers
- Nomad: 1 GB free for 3 days across 200+ destinations.
- GigSky: 100 MB free for new users.
- Others offering trial options include Sim Local and Yoho Mobile.
10. Fonus Mobile
- Offers unlimited data, calls & texts via eSIM or physical SIM in 100+ countries, typically starting at $19.99/month, with no time limits on roaming.
11. Orange Travel (eSIM)
- A reliable European telecom offering eSIM plans in 200+ destinations with up to 90% roaming cost savings and full data + call/SMS service.
12. Sim Local
- eSIM provider in 150+ countries, available via airport kiosks and seamless QR code activation.
Physical Prepaid SIM Cards
- Lyca Mobile offers a physical prepaid SIM covering around 100 countries, with up to 50 GB data, EU roaming, and no contract binding—starting from around €7.
Quick Comparison Table
| Scenario | Recommended Option |
|---|---|
| Best overall eSIM | Saily – global coverage, 5G, unlimited options, strong security features |
| Budget-friendly, flexible | Airalo, Nomad, Jetpac – great per-GB or pay-as-you-go plans |
| Heavy data needs | Holafly – unlimited plans (with fair-use throttling) |
| Convenience + phone number | aloSIM, Fonus, Orange Travel – include calls or secondary numbers |
| Trial before committing | Nomad, GigSky, Sim Local, Yoho Mobile |
| Physical SIM option | Lyca Mobile – good for regions where eSIM may face compatibility issues |
Tips for Choosing the Right Plan
- Match plan type to usage: Light traveler? Go with pay-as-you-go. Heavy streamer? Consider unlimited options.
- Check device compatibility: Ensure your phone is eSIM-capable and unlocked.
- Activate before landing: Load the eSIM over Wi-Fi to avoid roaming mishaps.
- Watch for hidden throttling: Many “unlimited” plans have daily caps followed by speed throttling
