eSIM & Mobile Data
Airalo Review 2026
Travel eSIM marketplace with local, regional, and global plans in 200+ countries and regions.
8.9
/ 10
★★★★★★★★☆
Very Good
Travel eSIM marketplace with local, regional, and global plans in 200+ countries and regions.
Airalo is a travel eSIM marketplace that lets you buy mobile data plans for more than 200 countries and regions before or during a trip. Instead of visiting a SIM shop after landing, you install an eSIM on a compatible device and activate a plan digitally. Airalo offers local, regional, and global options, which makes it useful for both single-country trips and multi-stop journeys.
One important detail is that most Airalo plans are data-only. Some products, such as selected Discover+ plans, also include calls and texts, but you should always check the exact pack before you buy.
Getting started with Airalo takes only a few minutes. You download the Airalo app or visit the website, search for your destination, and choose a plan that fits your data needs and trip length. After purchasing, you receive a QR code or can install the eSIM directly through the app.
To install, you go into your phone's mobile data settings, select "Add eSIM," and either scan the QR code or use the direct app installation. The process typically takes under five minutes and the eSIM is ready to activate when you land. There is no need to visit a local shop or swap a physical SIM card.
Once activated, you use the Airalo eSIM as your data connection. Your home SIM stays in the phone and can still receive calls and texts — the eSIM just handles the data in your destination country.
Pricing depends on destination, data allowance, and validity period. Airalo offers a wide range of plan sizes, so it works well for light users who only need maps and messaging as well as travellers who need a larger data package for streaming or video calls.
As a general guide, short-trip local plans for popular destinations tend to start from a few dollars for 1GB with 7-day validity. Regional plans covering multiple countries cost more but offer better value for multi-country itineraries. Global Discover+ plans with calls and texts are priced at a premium but eliminate the need for a separate roaming plan.
Because prices vary by country, it is always better to search your specific destination on the Airalo app or website to get accurate current pricing before you travel.
| Coverage | 200+ countries and regions |
| Plan types | Local, regional, global |
| Calls & texts | Available on selected Discover+ plans only |
| Default plan type | Data-only |
| Physical SIM needed | No |
| Compatible devices | eSIM-capable phones (iPhone XS+, many Android) |
| Score | 8.9 / 10 |
Airalo is one of the safest eSIM recommendations for travellers who want wide destination coverage and a straightforward setup process. It is especially strong for people visiting several countries on one trip. The app is easy to use, installation is quick, and the range of plan options is hard to beat. Just confirm whether the plan you are buying is data-only or includes calls and texts before you purchase.
Get Airalo →Looking for more options? You can also read our Yesim review — the best eSIM with a built-in VPN and Wi-Fi calling — or our Saily review for the best price-per-GB option.
Yes. Airalo is a practical choice for travellers who want a quick eSIM setup before departure and broad destination coverage across 200+ countries.
Airalo offers local, regional, and global plans covering 200+ countries and regions. Pricing, network partners, and plan value vary by destination.
Most Airalo plans are data-only. However, selected Discover+ global plans do include calls and texts. Always check the individual plan details before purchasing.
After purchasing, Airalo provides a QR code or direct installation through their app. You scan the QR code in your phone settings or use the app — no physical SIM swap required. The process typically takes under five minutes.
Yes. Airalo works with eSIM-capable iPhones (iPhone XS and later) as well as many Android devices. Check your specific phone model supports eSIM before purchasing.
Top-up availability depends on the specific plan and destination. Some plans allow additional data top-ups, while others require buying a new plan when your data runs out. Check the plan page before buying.
⚡ Affiliate disclosure: This page contains affiliate links. We may earn a commission if you click through and make a purchase, at no extra cost to you.