The Cheapest eSIMs for Travelers (2026 Guide)

Intro: Why I Even Started This Research

We’ve used so many eSIMs while bouncing around the world since 2023 when we first noticed that eSIMs are a thing.

Airalo. Yesim. Holafly. Basically the whole TikTok digital nomad starter pack.

At first, I genuinely liked them. But then… the cracks started to show.

One time with Airalo in Armenia, I couldn’t use data at all except for one random day. No explanation. Customer support acted as if it was my fault for...existing?

Meanwhile, every influencer on TikTok and Instagram constantly screams:

“Use my link for 10% off!!! Best eSIM ever!!!”

No.

They hype them because they get paid. And it feels a little deceptive.

Then something unexpected happened: We were in China, desperately searching for data.

And I discovered that Trip.com sells eSIMs.

They were so cheap I assumed it was a scam.

But I bought one anyway.

It worked. And then I bought another. And another. And now… I’ve used Trip.com eSIMs in 5 countries/regions and counting.

The Moment Everything Changed: Discovering Trip.com eSIMs

Trip.com's eSIM interface isn’t admittedly as sexy as some of the other companies that solely focus on eSIM sales.

But the price? A fraction of Airalo or Yesim. And the reliability has been just as good for me or better.

Upsides:

• Stupid cheap, see below for cost comparisons
• Reliable (5+ installs, zero problems)
• Flexible plans: easily choose the number of days and amount of data you need, and mix or match them to fit your trip
• If you run out of data, just renew it or buy another one. No drama.
• You earn Trip Coins every time you buy an eSIM on Trip.com, which you can use for discounts on future purchases.
• After leaving a review, you’ll also get a small bonus (about $0.60) in Trip Coins for your next order.

Downsides:

• The interface is not designed specifically for eSIMs (Trip.com is great for flights and hotels, too)
• Not many unlimited plans

Does the interface look like it was designed by an accountant? Maybe. Will it save you hundreds? Absolutely.

eSIM Cost Comparisons

Here are five real-world examples from my travels where Trip.com consistently offered the cheapest eSIM option. In each case, I personally used Trip.com's eSIMs and compared their prices and features as closely as possible to other major providers:

🇻🇳 VIETNAM: 30 days/20GB

🇹🇼 TAIWAN: 30 days/20GB

🇮🇹 ITALY: 30 days, 20–30GB

🇪🇺 EUROPE: 40+ countries, 30 days

🌍 GLOBAL: 100+ countries, 30 days

Cost Conclusions

• Trip.com wins in every category...lowest cost/GB and cost/day.
• Airalo and Yesim cost 2–6× more per GB than Trip.com.
• For Europe and Global plans, Trip.com is dramatically cheaper than Airalo (although they don't tend to cover as many countries)

Cheapest eSIMs by Region & Country

Looking for the best eSIM deals for your next trip? Below, you'll find my curated list of the cheapest eSIMs by region and country, all rated 4.5 stars or higher (out of 5) on Trip.com based on user reviews. If you don't see your destination listed, simply search for your country and "eSIM" on Trip.com using this link to find the latest offers and options.

Trip.com eSIM Logistics

Before you buy, here’s what you need to know about using Trip.com eSIMs, from compatibility to renewals and alternatives.

Is Your Phone Compatible?

Not all phones support eSIMs. Most recent iPhones (XS and newer), Google Pixels, and many Samsung Galaxy models do, but it’s always best to double-check. Search for "iPhone eSIM compatibility" or look up your specific phone model on the manufacturer’s website to confirm.

How to Buy and Install a Trip.com eSIM

Buying an eSIM on Trip.com is straightforward:

• Purchase: Find your desired eSIM plan, pick your day and data amount combination, complete the purchase.
• Access: Go to “All Bookings” in your Trip.com account to view your eSIM details (you should also receive an email).
• Install: After purchase, you'll see a Confirmation page with an "Install" button, plus a QR code and a manual code/link. To install your eSIM, either:
  • Tap the "Install" button and follow the on-screen instructions, or
  • Scan the QR code with your phone's camera, or
  • Enter the code/link manually in your phone's eSIM settings if scanning isn't possible.
  • Remember to always

Note: If your eSIM status says “Not Activated,” don’t worry. This usually means you haven’t arrived in the destination country yet. Once you land and turn on your eSIM, it should activate automatically. Remember to always turn on 'Data Roaming' in your settings.

How to Renew or Top-Up Your eSIM

If you run out of data or your plan expires:

• Go to “All Bookings” (including previous bookings).
• Tap the eSIM you want to renew and select “Request Renewal.”
• Renewals are typically available by the day. If you want a larger data package, you’ll need to purchase a new eSIM.

Tip: If you try to renew before your current plan expires (i.e. the data is done but the days you purchased it for haven't expired) and the new data doesn’t start automatically, contact Trip.com customer support directly in the app. They’re responsive and can help manually adjust your renewal. I've done this twice, and it was superfast.

Cheapest Alternative: Local SIM Cards

While Trip.com eSIMs are among the cheapest international options, local SIM cards are often even more affordable, especially for stays of a month or longer. If you’re looking to maximize savings and don’t mind a quick trip to a local shop, consider picking up a physical SIM card at your destination.

Final Thoughts

Trip.com is not the sexiest app for eSIM purchases.

But if saving money is sexy... Then yeah. It’s very sexy.

I’ve saved hundreds of dollars by switching from Airalo/Yesim to Trip.com.

Use the links, so I can keep doing research and make sure you save money while traveling, too!