This guide is about AirAlo being the best eSIM provider for Europe.
Logistically, traveling now is easier than it’s ever been. You can book flights and hotels online and always have a map in your pocket. Need to find a restaurant? Just ask Google Maps. Need a taxi to get there? Pop open one of the endless ride-share and taxi apps available at your destination.
But one thing has just recently been modernized: buying mobile data abroad. And that’s a big deal, especially considering you need an internet connection for all the modern travel conveniences mentioned. It’s easier than ever to get a cheap internet connection abroad, thanks to eSIMs.
eSIMs are virtual SIM cards you can download to compatible phones, like most recent iPhones and premium Samsung devices. These let you connect to a local phone network abroad, often paying a lower price than roaming through your mobile carrier at home.
You can use a handful of services to purchase eSIM cards, but my favorite is AirAlo. It’s one of the first eSIM marketplaces, and it supports over 200 countries and regions around the world. The app is easy to use, has a built-in loyalty program, and has saved me time and money over the past three years of travel adventures.
Exploring Europe with AirAlo eSIM
So, are you ready to embark on a European adventure filled with breathtaking landscapes, cultural treasures, and unforgettable moments? Well, buckle up because I’m about to share a game-changer that will make your travel experience even more seamless and stress-free.
Say “bonjour,” “hola,” and “ciao” to the AirAlo eSIM Europe—a digital travel companion that will keep you connected wherever you go, allowing you to navigate the streets of Europe with ease.
Remember when we had to search for local SIM cards upon arrival in every European country? Well, bid farewell to those days because the AirAlo eSIM is here to revolutionize the way we stay connected while traveling.
This innovative technology lets you activate and manage your mobile data plan directly on your smartphone, eliminating the need for physical SIM cards and saving you precious time and energy.
And, the best part?
AirAlo offers a regional eSIM plan for Europe, so you only need a single eSIM for the entire region–enjoy staying connected at full 4G/LTE speed in 39 European countries!
Easy activation and global coverage
One of the biggest advantages of using AirAlo eSIM is its simplicity.
Gone are the days of hunting down a mobile store to purchase and activate a SIM card. With AirAlo, all you need is a compatible device (check the compatible device list) and an internet connection to get started.
Simply download the AirAlo app, choose your destination, select a data plan that suits your needs, install and activate your European eSIM, and voilà! You’re ready to explore Europe with a fully functional eSIM that covers multiple countries.
Seamless data plans for European adventures
I’ve been bouncing around Europe for the last three years and could stay connected in multiple European countries thanks to AirAlo.
AirAlo offers a range of flexible and affordable data eSIM plans designed specifically for travelers in Europe. Whether you’re hopping between countries or embarking on an epic Italian road trip, AirAlo has got you covered.
From short-term plans in a single country to extended plans for long-term exploration all over Europe, you can easily select the plan that aligns with your travel duration and data requirements. It’s like having a personal hotspot in your pocket, ready to connect you to the world wherever your journey takes you.
Uninterrupted connectivity for digital nomads
For digital nomads and remote workers, reliable and fast internet is non-negotiable.
AirAlo understands the needs of modern travelers and ensures that you’re always connected, enabling you to work remotely, stay in touch with loved ones, and navigate unfamiliar territories effortlessly.
You can bid adieu to intermittent WiFi signals and embrace the freedom of staying online wherever you are, from the bustling streets of Paris to the tranquil shores of the Amalfi Coast.
User-friendly experience and cost-efficiency
AirAlo has prioritized user experience, making it incredibly simple and intuitive to manage your eSIM on the go. The AirAlo app allows you to track your data usage, and top-up your plan.
Additionally, AirAlo offers cost-effective options compared to traditional roaming charges, saving you money while providing reliable coverage across Europe.
AirAlo – the best eSim for Europe
As a travel blogger constantly on the move, I can’t stress enough the importance of staying connected while exploring the world.
The AirAlo eSIM has transformed how I navigate Europe, providing hassle-free connectivity and ensuring I can share my adventures with all of you in real-time.
Say goodbye to the days of SIM card hunting and welcome the future of travel communication with open arms. With AirAlo, your European escapades will be more convenient, connected, and memorable than ever before!
Things I like about AirAlo
It’s easy to buy an eSIM
One of the best things about AirAlo is the ease of buying an eSIM card through its app. First, select the country or region where you’d like to purchase an eSIM. You can choose from country-specific eSIMs or buy a regional or global eSIM if you plan to travel to multiple countries or want a long-term plan.
Then, you can pay with a credit card or PayPal and go to the “My eSIMs” tab to see your new eSIM. Tap on it and then follow the installation instructions. The app will then walk you through the setup process, which takes just a few minutes to complete.
And that’s all there is to it. If your phone supports multiple eSIMs, you can keep your home plan active in the background for calls and texts. This is helpful if your carrier provides free international texts so you can still receive things like two-factor authentication notifications and messages from friends.
Note you can also purchase AirAlo eSIM cards online and scan a QR code to add it to your smartphone. Overall, both options are easy for travelers to figure out before they hit the road.
Mobile data prices are very reasonable
The price you’ll pay for data plans with AirAlo depends on the country and region you’re visiting, often depending on how much mobile data actually costs in the country you’re visiting. You’ll usually pay a premium to purchase a regional eSIM, but it can be worthwhile if you have a multi-country itinerary planned out.
You purchase data by the gigabyte, and each AirAlo plan has a different validity. You can top up existing eSIM cards if you’re running low on data, saving you from installing a new eSIM.
Travel tip: You’ll often get a better deal by buying more data upfront versus reloading as you go.
Speeds are great
AirAlo partners with many different phone networks around the world.
In the US, the carrier runs on Verizon and T-Mobile’s 5G networks. Meanwhile, in the UK, it runs on O2 and Three; in Japan, it runs on KDDI and SoftBank.
These are all trusted and reliable phone carriers, so your speeds and coverage should be similar to if you purchased a SIM or eSIM directly from the carrier at a store.
I’ve had great success with fast internet speeds on my travels thanks to the quality of network partnerships largely available.
Plans support mobile hotspot
Many international roaming plans offered by phone carriers only let you use mobile hotspots if you pay extra.
Thankfully, this doesn’t apply to AirAlo, so you can use the data you purchase over a mobile hotspot if your smartphone supports the function.
This is immensely helpful when working remotely abroad as you don’t have to rely on hotel or cafe internet to get work done.
Save even more with AirAlo’s loyalty program
Airalo has a loyalty program called Airmoney. It’s similar to a travel rewards program — you’ll earn rewards for buying your data plans with AirAlo. More specifically, you’ll earn Airmoney whenever you purchase an eSIM or top-up with AirAlo, with the exact amount varying based on the data package you are buying. You’ll also earn Airmoney when you refer friends.
You can use Airmoney to cover any portion of a future eSIM when redeeming your rewards. Ultimately, it’s an excellent way to save on your data when you travel.
I’ve been using AirAlo for the last three years in all my travels and have reached a Platinum Traveler level with 10% cashback for every purchase.
AirAlo - the best eSIM for Europe
AirAlo is an excellent way to buy mobile data abroad. If you have an unlocked phone, you can purchase mobile data in almost any country around the world. This will often save you money over purchasing an international roaming plan from your carrier, and it will save you time over buying a local SIM at a phone store when you arrive in a new country. It’s more expensive than the latter, but the time savings make it worthwhile on short trips.
Consider trying the AirAlo app the next time you travel abroad. If you have a long trip with multiple destinations, purchasing a regional or global plan that covers all of your intended destinations might be worth buying.
Are you planning a trip to Europe? Check out more articles on the best eSIM providers for international travel.
Frequently asked questions about AirAlo eSIMs
Is AirAlo eSIM legit?
Yes! Airalo is a legit, affordable, and safe-to-use app that can provide an eSIM for your next trip to Europe. I’ve used AirAlo for the last three years and have had no issues; just make sure your device is unlocked before purchasing.
What are the benefits of AirAlo eSIM data plans
Below are some of the many benefits of using an eSIM data plan while traveling.
No searching for SIM cards
The biggest benefit of AirAlo eSIM is not having to track down a physical SIM card store. All you have to do is install the AirAlo app and complete the steps to activate the service.
Instant delivery
Since eSIM cards are all digital, you don’t have to pay shipping fees to pre-purchase a European data plan before arriving in Europe. For example, you can buy a plan from AirAlo, simply download the app, and install the purchased eSIM.
Dual SIM card phones allow you to use two data plans at once
Another significant eSIM benefit is that you can seamlessly switch between your domestic plan (via the physical SIM) and the travel plan (via your eSIM). In fact, some phones let you have up to 5 eSIM data plans on a single phone—which is overkill for most people, but it’s still an option.
Another huge benefit to having dual SIM cards is that many services will send you texts for things like two-factor identification, or your bank might text you with fraud alerts, and these won’t come through if you don’t have your home plan’s physical SIM card installed.
No need to remove your primary SIM card
Removing the physical SIM card is a hassle. First, you need the little tool to pop the SIM out of the phone (which is easy to lose). Then you also have to remove your phone case. You also have to keep track of your original SIM card so you don’t lose or damage it (you’ll need to reinstall it to get your service back).
Easier to top up your account
With AirAlo, you can easily top up your current data plan and stay connected through the app.
You need an unlocked phone
You need to make sure your phone is unlocked before you can install both a SIM card or eSIM—many mobile carriers use software to “lock” their smartphones to their network, so the phone won’t work if you install a SIM card from another company.
However, you can unlock your phone by calling your mobile carrier and asking them to unlock it because you’re going to travel abroad (you might need to visit a store to get it unlocked). Or you can buy unlocked phones.
Is there a downside to using AirAlo eSIM?
The main disadvantage to AirAlo is that most of their eSIMs only support data without phone calls or texts. You can use WhatsApp as an alternative.
The new Discover+ eSIM also includes calling & texts for 130 countries.
Can I use WhatsApp with AirAlo?
Yes! Since most AirAlo eSIMs don’t include phone minutes, using WhatsApp is one of the best ways to make calls or send texts with the mobile data provided by AirAlo.
Does eSIM drain the battery?
Nope! In fact, eSIMs are more battery-efficient than regular SIM cards, so an AirAlo eSIM can actually save you some battery juice!
Does Airalo use my phone number?
An AirAlo data plan is completely separate from whatever mobile plan you have at home, so you can continue using your home phone number for calls and texts (as long as you have roaming with your regular carrier) while also using an AirAlo eSIM data plan.
Do you get a phone number with AirAlo eSIM purchase
Most AirAlo data plans do not include a local number, but some, like the AirAlo Czech Republic eSIM, include a local number and phone minutes.
The Discover+ eSIM also provides a number. Each eSIM will specify whether they include a number under “Additional Information.”
Should I install the eSIM before or after travel?
You can install your AirAlo eSIM before or after you arrive at your destination. I recommend installing the eSIM before your trip and activating it after arrival.
Does AirAlo need WiFi?
You’ll need a stable WiFi connection to purchase, install, and activate your AirAlo eSIM. After it’s activated, as long as there is service for the eSIM provider, you can browse the internet, update social media, and make calls/texts on apps like WhatsApp without WiFi.
How much mobile data do you need when traveling Europe?
Studies show that the average person uses about 5-7GB of mobile data weekly, but your rate will vary.
You can easily hit 15GB/week if you’re a heavy user, but it’s relatively easy to keep your mobile data usage under 2-3GB/week if you stick to basic web browsing, limit your social media use, and keep app usage to a minimum (or save your heavy usage for when you’re on WiFi).
