Are you currently searching for a review of Airalo’s eSIM Cards and wondering if they are legitimate? Do you find yourself in need of data immediately upon arriving at your destination?
We’ve used these cards for a while, so let us answer all your questions.
Let’s keep it simple: Yes, the eSIM Cards by Airalo.com are fantastic and budget-friendly. Their website is legitimate – we’ve also used it ourselves.
For a more detailed response, this honest review of Airalo will cover all the pros and cons of their eSIM Card service. We actually tested the app and service on our trip through Sweden and Norway in Europe, and here’s what we have to say about it. After that, we have tried them again as an eSim Card for Istanbul. On our latest trip to Zanzibar, we did not use their service.
In a hurry right now? Here’s the gist of it.
Airalo.com is safe to use, and you can buy eSim Cards through it. After your purchase, you’ll receive your data pretty much immediately.
How it works – a step-by-step guide:
- Visit Airalo.com or download their App
- Choose your destination country (the one you’re traveling to)
- Compare available packages:
- Consider how much data in GB you’ll need (below, we give some tips on how to estimate your consumption)
- Consider how long your eSim Card should be valid for.
- Install and Activate your eSIM
If you’ve somehow ended up here without knowing what Airalo.com is, it’s basically a budget-friendly solution to staying connected while exploring the world. Their service provides an easy way to get online when traveling internationally.
Airalo makes the process simple AND offers competitive pricing, which is why we originally decided to test it. While it might not be the cheapest option available, it comes close to being the most affordable and reliable in many countries.
Using their services also comes with a vast array of advantages, so here are the details. Obviously, nothing is perfect, so we’ll also go into cons as well as other alternatives you could use.
- What is Airalo.com?
- What is an eSIM card? How does it work with Airalo?
- What Package to Choose?
- Amount of Data
- Validity
- Prices
- How to use Airalo? Step-by-Step
- What countries do they provide an eSim Card for?
- What SmartPhones are compatible with Airalo?
- Creating a Personal Hotspot with Airalo
- Payment options accepted by Airalo.com
- Is it worth trying Airalo.com? Other Alternatives
- Is Airalo.com reliable and legit?
- Airalo.com Discount Code
- FAQ
- How long does it take for the eSIM card to be activated after purchase?
- Are Airalo eSIM cards compatible with all mobile networks?
- If traveling as a couple, do you need to purchase an eSim for each phone?
- Does Airalo offer any customer support or assistance?
- Can I use Airalo eSIM cards for voice calls and SMS messaging?
- What is the Refund or Cancellation policy for Airalo?
- Can I use Airalo eSIM cards for international roaming?
- Are there any limitations or restrictions when using Airalo eSIM cards?
- How does Airalo and eSim work? A Video
- Summary
Other important travel websites you need to know
Here are useful travel tools and websites we think you could benefit from:
- Skyscanner.com – one of our favorite sites to find cheaper flights
- Onward Ticket – what is this, and how to get it? Our Step-by-Step Guide
- iVisa.com – how to get your Visa to any country easy
- Hostelworld – the best way to book hostels?
- Tiqets.com – a reliable tool for booking sightseeing tickets.
Smart Traveler Tip: To enter many countries, you need a valid visa AND a so-called onward ticket. This proves you are leaving the country again at a certain point and won’t abuse your visa days. This ticket is often required when entering a country.
Important: We did not get paid to write this review. It is first-hand, genuine, and no BS. After using them, we decided to team up with them. This means for every purchase you make through our affiliate links; we will receive a small commission – at NO EXTRA cost for you!
1. What is Airalo.com?
Airalo.com is an innovative online platform that provides eSIM cards for travelers seeking seamless connectivity.
As someone who travels frequently, I have used Airalo.com to make my life easier when it comes to staying connected to the rest of the world. It is a reliable and convenient service that allows users to purchase and activate eSIM cards directly from their website, eliminating the need to visit physical stores or deal with traditional SIM cards.
Airalo is the world’s first eSIM store that solves the pain of high roaming bills by giving you access to 200+ eSIMs (digital SIM cards) globally at affordable prices.
– Quote directly from Airalo itself
A few shortfacts for you:
| 🌍 Global coverage: | 200+ countries connected |
| 💰 Budget-friendly: | Affordable connectivity options |
| 🌐 Convenient online platform: | Easy eSIM card access |
| 📱 Reliable data connectivity: | Seamless and dependable |
| ❌ No physical SIM required: | Hassle-free digital solution |
| 🌟 Vast array of advantages: | Comprehensive benefits offered |
| ⚡️ Reliable Connectivity: | Dependable data connection |
| 👍 Top Choice for: | Frequent Travelers, Digital Nomads and Budget-Conscious Travelers |
2. What is an eSIM card? How does it work with Airalo?
An eSIM card, or embedded SIM card, is a digital SIM card that is embedded directly into a device.
So basically: you “download” and install an eSim Card instead of manually inserting a physical Sim Card into your phone. An eSIM is a digital SIM that allows you to use a cellular plan from your carrier without using a physical nano-SIM.
Unlike physical SIM cards, it does not require an insertion or removal.
Good to know: I will keep mentioning eSim Card, although technically, it is only an eSIM…not a card anymore…
With Airalo.com, the eSIM card works seamlessly with compatible smartphones and devices. Once purchased and activated, the eSIM card connects to the supported mobile network, providing reliable data connectivity without the need for a physical SIM card.
3. What Package to Choose?
Are you in search of the perfect package on Airalo.com to keep you connected during your travels?
We’re here to simplify the decision-making process for you. After choosing your destination, there are just two essential factors that you should think about to be able to choose the right package for you:
- The amount of data in Gigabytes that you’ll need
- The validity: how long you’ll need your data for
1. Amount of Data:
Calculate your data usage requirements based on the activities you plan to engage in while traveling. Whether it’s browsing the web, sharing photos and videos on Instagram and TikTok, or staying connected through messaging and video calls, consider how much data you typically consume.
Airalo.com provides a range of data allowances, allowing you to choose a package that aligns with your data needs. Opt for a smaller data package if your usage is minimal, or go for a larger data allowance if you rely heavily on data-intensive tasks. By selecting the right data package, you can stay connected and enjoy a seamless online experience throughout your journey.
| Online Activity | Approximate Data Usage per Activity |
|---|---|
| TikTok (1 minute) | 15-30 MB (0.015-0.03 GB) |
| Instagram (1 post) | 2-5 MB (0.002-0.005 GB) |
| Browsing (1 hour) | 20-100 MB (0.02-0.1 GB) |
| Checking Emails | 0.5-1 MB (0.0005-0.001 GB) |
| WhatsApp Messaging | 0.01 MB per message (0.00001 GB) |
| Facebook (1 hour) | 50-200 MB (0.05-0.2 GB) |
| Twitter (1 hour) | 5-20 MB (0.005-0.02 GB) |
| Snapchat (10 minutes) | 10-30 MB (0.01-0.03 GB) |
| Video Call (1 hour) | 200-500 MB (0.2-0.5 GB) |
| Audio Streaming (1 hour) | 50-100 MB (0.05-0.1 GB) |
| Podcast Streaming (1 hour) | 30-70 MB (0.03-0.07 GB) |
| Online Gaming (1 hour) | 20-200 MB (0.02-0.2 GB) |
| GPS Navigation (1 hour) | 5-10 MB (0.005-0.01 GB) |
| YouTube (1 hour) | 250 MB – 2 GB (0.25-2 GB) |
| Netflix (1 hour) | 300 MB – 3 GB (0.3-3 GB) |
Based on this, you should be able to estimate your data consumption.
Good to know: With an iPhone, you can turn off the data usage for specific apps. This will help you to reduce unwanted data usage, such as background updates or podcast downloads. Leave these heavy downloads to your hostel wifi…
If you want to know how to activate this restriction on data usage, please let me know in the comments. I am happy to go into detail, too.
Read: the coolest travel apps in 2024 no one talks about
2. Validity:
Okay, this one is much easier.
Consider the duration of your trip and select a package with a validity period that matches or exceeds your stay.
It’s important to have uninterrupted connectivity throughout your journey, so choosing a package with an appropriate validity period ensures you stay connected without any interruptions. Whether you’re embarking on a short weekend getaway or a long-term adventure, Airalo.com offers packages with varying validity periods to cater to your specific travel needs.
The packages usually start from a few days up to 30 days.
With these two key considerations in mind, you can confidently choose the ideal package on Airalo.com that perfectly matches your travel duration and data requirements.
Say goodbye to connectivity worries and embrace a hassle-free, reliable, and budget-friendly solution for staying connected during your adventures. Airalo.com has got you covered with its wide range of packages, ensuring you can explore the world while staying seamlessly connected.
Question: What happens when you run out of data? Can you upgrade?
Yes, easily.
If you run out of data on your Airalo eSIM card, you have the option to upgrade and add more data to your package easily. Airalo.com provides a convenient top-up feature that allows you to increase your data allowance and extend your connectivity.
Once the top-up process is complete, your eSIM card will be updated with the new data allowance, providing you with extended connectivity. You can continue using your Airalo eSIM card without interruption.
It’s important to note that the availability of top-up options and the specific steps may vary depending on the eSIM card and country you are in. Airalo.com’s website provides detailed information and instructions for top-up procedures, ensuring a smooth and straightforward process.
In the cons of Airalo, I talk about that you only receive an email when you run low on data. They do not give you a push notification on the phone. I hope this can be fixed.
Prices
Airalo.com offers a range of data plans with varying prices to cater to different needs and duration of travel.
The prices can vary based on factors such as the country or region you’re traveling to and the amount of data included in the plan. Typically, the prices for data plans on Airalo.com can start as low as a few dollars for smaller data allowances and shorter duration and increase to higher amounts for larger data allowances and longer duration.
It’s worth noting that prices may also depend on the specific mobile network operators and their pricing structures in each country. To get accurate and up-to-date information on prices, it is recommended to visit the Airalo.com website and explore the available data plans for your desired destination.
| Country | Data Plans & Prices (USD) |
|---|---|
| France | 7 days – 1GB – $4.50 |
| 30 days – 3GB – $10 | |
| 30 days – 10GB – $23 | |
| Italy | 7 days – 1GB – $4.50 |
| 30 days – 3GB – $10 | |
| 30 days – 10GB – $24 | |
| Greece | 7 days – 1GB – $5 |
| 30 days – 3GB – $9 | |
| 30 days – 10GB – $25 | |
| Spain | 7 days – 1GB – $5.50 |
| 30 days – 3GB – $11.50 | |
| 30 days – 10GB – $26.50 | |
| Indonesia | 7 days – 1GB – $5.50 |
| 30 days – 3GB – $11 | |
| 30 days – 10GB – $24.75 | |
| Mexico | 7 days – 1GB – $8 |
| 30 days – 3GB – $21 | |
| 30 days – 5GB – $32.50 | |
| United States | 7 days – 1GB – $4.50 |
| 30 days – 3GB – $11 | |
| 30 days – 10GB – $26 | |
| Colombia | 7 days – 1GB – $8 |
| 30 days – 3GB – $21 | |
| 30 days – 5GB – $32.50 |
4. How to use Airalo? Step-by-Step
Purchasing an eSIM card from Airalo.com is incredibly simple.
With my own smartphone, I accessed their website and browsed through the available eSIM card options. Yes, I used their website, not the app. However, you can use the App.
The website provides detailed descriptions of each eSIM card, including data plans, coverage, and prices. Once I found the eSIM card that suited my needs, I added it to my cart and proceeded to the checkout. Well, this is a super typical online purchase, really.
The payment process was secure and hassle-free, accepting various payment options. After completing the purchase, I received the necessary activation details and instructions via email.
Oh, and this is also when I installed their App.
Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to use Airalo:
Step 1: Visit Airalo.com or download their App
Go to the Airalo website by typing “airalo.com” in your web browser.
As an alternative, you can also download their app. Both work, but I personally enjoy doing these types of things on my laptop.
Step 2: Browse Available eSIM Cards
Explore the available eSIM cards by selecting the “eSIM Cards” or “Browse eSIMs” section on the Airalo website. You can use filters to narrow down your options based on destination, data plans, or other preferences.
Step 3: Select an eSIM Card
Choose the eSIM card that suits your needs by clicking on it to view more details. Check the coverage, data allowance, validity period, and any other relevant information.
Step 4: Add to Cart and Checkout
Once you’ve chosen your desired eSIM card, click on the “Add to Cart” button. Review your selection and proceed to the checkout page. Here, you’ll need to provide your email address, billing details and select a payment method.
Step 5: Complete the Purchase
Follow the instructions to complete the payment for your selected eSIM card. Airalo accepts various payment options, including major credit cards and PayPal. Ensure that your payment details are accurate, and then proceed to confirm your purchase.
Step 6: Receive Activation Details
After your purchase is complete, you will receive an email containing the activation details for your eSIM card. These details typically include the QR code, ICCID, and other necessary information for activation.
Step 7: Activate the eSIM Card
On your compatible device, go to the settings menu and find the “Cellular” or “Mobile Data” section. Look for the option to add a new cellular plan or add an eSIM. Follow the on-screen instructions to scan the QR code or manually enter the activation details provided by Airalo.
Step 8: Confirm Activation and Usage
Once the eSIM card is successfully activated on your device, you should see the new cellular plan listed. Confirm that the Airalo eSIM card is selected as your active plan. You can now use the data and connectivity provided by Airalo for your travel needs.
Step 9: Manage and Top Up (if needed)
If you need to manage or top up your Airalo eSIM card during your travels, you can do so through the Airalo website or by using the provided mobile app. You can check your data usage, purchase additional data if needed, and make any necessary adjustments to your plan.
Remember to check the specific instructions and details provided by Airalo for your eSIM card activation and management. Airalo’s customer support is available to assist you if you encounter any issues or have questions.
Please note: The exact steps may vary slightly depending on your device and operating system. It’s always advisable to refer to your device’s user manual or contact Airalo’s support if you need assistance specific to your situation.
5. What countries does Airalo.com provide an eSim Card for?
Airalo.com offers coverage in numerous countries around the world. Personally, I have used Airalo eSIM cards in Sweden and Norway.
Airalo offers eSim Cards for popular travel destinations such as Spain, France, Thailand, Bali (Indonesia…), Australia, and Colombia.
Here is the entire list:
| Country | Country | Country | Country |
|---|---|---|---|
| Afghanistan | Albania | Algeria | Andorra |
| Anguilla | Antigua And Barbuda | Antilles | Argentina |
| Armenia | Aruba | Australia | Austria |
| Azerbaijan | Azores | Bahamas | Bahrain |
| Bangladesh | Barbados | Belarus | Belgium |
| Belize | Benin | Bermuda | Bhutan |
| Bolivia | Bonaire | Bosnia and Herzegovina | Botswana |
| Brazil | British Virgin Islands | Brunei | Bulgaria |
| Burkina Faso | Cambodia | Cameroon | Canada |
| Canary Islands | Cape Verde | Cayman Islands | Chad |
| Chile | China | Colombia | Costa Rica |
| Côte d’Ivoire | Croatia | Curaçao | Cyprus |
| Czech Republic | Democratic Republic Of The Congo | Denmark | Dominica |
| Dominican Republic | Ecuador | Egypt | El Salvador |
| Estonia | Eswatini | Faroe Islands | Fiji |
| Finland | France | French Guiana | French Polynesia |
| Gabon | Gambia | Georgia | Germany |
| Ghana | Gibraltar | Greece | Greenland |
| Grenada | Guadeloupe | Guam | Guatemala |
| Guinea | Guinea-Bissau | Guyana | Haiti |
| Honduras | Hong Kong | Hungary | Iceland |
| India | Indonesia | Iran (Islamic Republic of) | Iraq |
| Ireland | Isle of Man | Israel | Italy |
| Jamaica | Japan | Jersey | Jordan |
| Kazakhstan | Kenya | Kosovo | Kuwait |
| Kyrgyzstan | Laos | Latvia | Lesotho |
| Liberia | Liechtenstein | Lithuania | Luxembourg |
| Macao | Madagascar | Madeira | Malawi |
| Malaysia | Maldives | Mali | Malta |
| Marie-Galante | Martinique | Mauritius | Mexico |
| Moldova | Mongolia | Montenegro | Montserrat |
| Morocco | Mozambique | Namibia | Nauru |
| Nepal | Netherlands | New Zealand | Nicaragua |
| Niger | Nigeria | North Macedonia | Norway |
| Oman | Pakistan | Palestine, State of | Panama |
| Papua New Guinea | Paraguay | Peru | Philippines |
| Poland | Portugal | Puerto Rico | Qatar |
| Republic of the Congo | Réunion | Romania | Rwanda |
| Saint Barthélemy | Saint Kitts and Nevis | Saint Lucia | Saint Martin (French Part) |
| Saint Vincent and the Grenadines | Samoa | Saudi Arabia | Scotland |
| Senegal | Serbia | Seychelles | Sierra Leone |
| Singapore | Sint Maarten (Dutch Part) | Slovakia | Slovenia |
| South Africa | South Korea | Spain | Sri Lanka |
| Suriname | Sweden | Switzerland | Taiwan |
| Tajikistan | Tanzania | Thailand | Timor – Leste |
| Togo | Tonga | Trinidad and Tobago | Tunisia |
| Turkey | Turks and Caicos Islands | Uganda | Ukraine |
| United Arab Emirates | United Kingdom | United States | Uruguay |
| Uzbekistan | Vatican City | Venezuela | Vietnam |
| Zambia | Zimbabwe |
Airalo.com continues to expand its coverage and partners with leading mobile network operators to ensure reliable connectivity in a wide range of countries.
6. What Phones are compatible with Airalo?
Airalo eSIM cards are compatible with a wide range of smartphones that support eSIM functionality. Here are some examples of smartphone brands and models that are commonly compatible with Airalo eSIM cards:
- Apple iPhones: iPhone XS, iPhone XS Max, iPhone XR, iPhone 11, iPhone 11 Pro, iPhone 11 Pro Max, iPhone SE (2nd generation), iPhone 12, iPhone 12 mini, iPhone 12 Pro, iPhone 12 Pro Max, and newer models.
- Google Pixel: Pixel 3, Pixel 3 XL, Pixel 3a, Pixel 3a XL, Pixel 4, Pixel 4 XL, Pixel 4a, Pixel 4a (5G), Pixel 5, and newer models.
- Samsung Galaxy: Galaxy S20, Galaxy S20+, Galaxy S20 Ultra, Galaxy Note 20, Galaxy Note 20 Ultra, Galaxy Z Fold 2, Galaxy S21, Galaxy S21+, Galaxy S21 Ultra, and newer models.
- OnePlus: OnePlus 7 Pro, OnePlus 7T, OnePlus 7T Pro, OnePlus 8, OnePlus 8 Pro, OnePlus 9, OnePlus 9 Pro, and newer models.
- Motorola: Motorola razr (2019), Motorola Edge, Motorola Edge+, Motorola One Fusion+, Motorola One 5G Ace, and newer models.
- Xiaomi: Xiaomi Mi 9, Xiaomi Mi 9T, Xiaomi Mi 10, Xiaomi Mi 10T, Xiaomi Mi 10T Pro, Xiaomi Mi 11, and newer models.
This is not an exhaustive list; compatibility may vary depending on specific models and regions. It’s always recommended to check your smartphone’s specifications or contact Airalo’s customer support for the most accurate information regarding compatibility with their eSIM cards.
All that being said, I personally use the Apple iPhone 13 Pro Max. It works perfectly with Airalo, with no issues.
7. Creating a Personal Hotspot with Airalo
Yes, you can do so-called tethering. This basically means that you can share internet access between different devices. You might call it creating your own Wi-Fi or a hotspot.
How do you set up your Personal Hotspot?
It is the same process as with any other sim card.
From the Home screen,
- head to Settings on your device.
- Go to Network & Internet.
- Tap “Hotspot & tethering.”
- Tap “Wi-Fi hotspot”
- and turn on “Wi-Fi hotspot.”
Turn on WiFi on your other device. Under WiFi, your other device should now be able to find the new hotspot you have just created. Remember, you should set up a password so not everybody in the area can connect to your hotspot. It can be a simple one like “hostelgeeks helped me out”.
Oh, and good to know: We use a super cool program that allows you to restrict data usage on your laptop for every app. If this is interesting to you, let me know in the comments. Happy to share more details on this app.
8. What are the payment options accepted by Airalo.com?
Airalo accepts various payment options.
During my purchase, I found that Airalo.com accepted major credit cards, such as
- Visa
- Mastercard
- American Express (Amex)
- CUP
- PayPal
- AliPay
Additionally, they offered alternative payment methods such as PayPal, making it convenient for customers with different preferences and payment options.
9. Is it worth trying Airalo.com? What are Some other Alternatives
If you’re traveling and want to stay connected without the hassle of figuring out where to get a sim card at and whether or not you’re being scammed by tourist-trap prices, Airalo.com is definitely worth trying.
However, exploring alternative options and comparing them to make an informed decision is always a good idea.
Here are a few other alternatives you can consider:
9.1 Airalo vs. Holafly Comparison
When comparing Airalo and Holafly, two popular providers of eSIM cards for travelers, there are several factors to consider. Personally, I have used both services.
We have used Holafly in Japan and France. We have also used Airalo in Sweden and Norway. I am trying to highlight the pros and cons that I noticed over my first-hand experience. Oh, and please note that I am being really picky here.
Here are some pros and cons of each service:
Pros of Airalo
Wide Coverage:
Airalo offers global coverage, allowing travelers to stay connected in numerous countries around the world.
Convenience:
The entire process of purchasing and activating an Airalo eSIM card is done online, providing a hassle-free experience without the need to visit physical stores.
Competitive Pricing:
Airalo offers competitive pricing for its eSIM cards, providing cost-effective options for travelers.
Flexibility:
Airalo offers a range of data plans with different allowances and validity periods, allowing users to choose the plan that best suits their needs.
Instant Activation:
Airalo eSIM cards can be activated almost instantly after purchase, providing immediate connectivity for travelers. (you have to be in the country of the esim card you purchased!!!)
Cons of Airalo
You cannot activate the eSim Card BEFORE you arrive:
As you know, we have actually tested this service personally, several times. The biggest surprise was that I could not activate the esim card outside my travel destination.
As an example: I was in Cyprus, heading to Turkey. I bought my Airalo eSim in Cyprus and wanted to activate it. This was not possible.
ONLY when you are in the destination, you can activate it. This is annoying, honestly.
You need WiFi to activate your eSim:
Some airports do not offer safe (or free) WiFi. And you need to have a solid WiFi connection to activate your eSim Card. That was disappointing…
There I was at Istanbul Airport and could not use my new sim card…
When Data runs low, you get an email (instead of a notification)
This is a bit silly and I hope they fix this soon. Instead of having push notification saying you run low on data, you get an email…this makes no sense to me…
Limited Voice Call and SMS Support:
Airalo eSIM cards primarily focus on data connectivity and support for voice calls and SMS messaging may be limited or unavailable on certain eSIM card packages.
No Number Porting:
Airalo does not currently support number porting, which means you cannot keep your existing phone number when using their eSIM cards.
Not an actual Phone Number
For most Airalo eSIMs, you will not be able to make phone calls or send SMS text messages, as their eSIM packs provide data only. Telephony services like Texts /SMS and calls are not possible using a Data-only eSIM. However, you can use internet-based calls and messages.
Alternatively, you can switch back to your own sim card and phone number at any point if you need to make a quick call (using your own service with its own fees) or receive a text message. You won’t have access to the data provided by the Airalo eSim card while doing this, but you can obviously switch back to their data whenever you are done.
Pros of Holafly
Comprehensive Packages:
Holafly offers comprehensive travel packages that include eSIM cards and additional travel essentials such as travel insurance and travel adapters.
Voice Call and SMS Support:
Holafly eSIM cards often include support for voice calls and SMS messaging, providing a more comprehensive communication solution.
Simplicity:
Holafly packages are designed to provide all-in-one solutions, making it easy for travelers to get everything they need in a single purchase.
Multi-Country Coverage:
Holafly offers packages that cover multiple countries or regions, making them suitable for travelers with extensive itineraries.
Cons of Holafly
Limited Coverage:
While Holafly covers many popular travel destinations, their coverage may not be as extensive as Airalo in terms of the number of countries supported.
Higher Pricing:
Holafly packages tend to be priced higher compared to Airalo, particularly when considering additional travel essentials included in the packages. However, as you can imagine, these deals always change. So it might be unfair from my end to include this as a con. Always compare!
Summary: Airalo vs. Holafly Compared
| Airalo | Holafly | |
|---|---|---|
| Pros | – Wide coverage in multiple countries | – Comprehensive travel packages |
| – Convenient online purchase and activation | – Voice call and SMS support in some eSIM cards | |
| – Competitive Pricing | – Simplicity with all-in-one solutions | |
| – Flexible data plans | – Multi-country coverage | |
| – Instant eSIM card activation | ||
| Cons | – Limited voice call and SMS support | – Limited coverage compared to Airalo |
| – No number porting support | – Slightly higher pricing compared to Airalo |
Please note: these pros and cons mentioned above are general observations and may vary based on individual experiences and specific requirements. When choosing between Airalo and Holafly, I advise to consider factors such as the countries you plan to visit, your communication needs, your budget, and the specific offerings of each provider.
All that being said, I have personally used BOTH services. And I enjoyed BOTH!
9.2 Airalo vs. Local Sim Card Provider
Purchasing a local SIM card from a mobile network operator in your destination country can often provide cost-effective and reliable connectivity. This option allows you to enjoy local rates and coverage, which can be advantageous in terms of data allowances and call rates. However, finding and purchasing a local SIM card may require much more effort, especially if language barriers or unfamiliarity with the local market exist.
I bought local Sim Cards in different places like Bali, Vietnam, and Thailand, and always ended up needing help. And do not even get me started on topping up. Of course, I always managed, but it took time to find a store like 7/11 (okay…they are everywhere), purchase the package, and then go through it.
Local Sim Cards might be cheaper, but they also require more work and time to set up. And for me time is more valuable.
As an example, Japain Airlo eSim costs $8.50 for 3GB and a 30 days validity. In a local store, I paid 8$…I saved a wopping 50 cents…that metro ride cost me more…
9.3 International Roaming
If your current mobile network provider offers international roaming services, it may be convenient to continue using your existing SIM card while traveling. However, international roaming can be expensive, and data allowances may be limited or subject to high charges. It’s essential to check the roaming rates and packages offered by your provider and be aware of potential cost implications.
I once got a “surprise” from my Sim Card provider Simyo…the bill was 120€ for excessive roaming around Europe.
10. Is Airalo.com reliable and legit?
Yes, Airalo.com is a reliable and legitimate service for obtaining eSIM cards.
Airalo.com has established a solid reputation as a trusted provider of eSIM cards for travelers. They have partnerships with leading mobile network operators worldwide, ensuring reliable network coverage. Airalo.com operates a user-friendly website that offers a seamless purchasing and activation process for eSIM cards.
They have received positive reviews from customers who have successfully used their services to stay connected during their travels – including myself obviously. It’s always a good practice to review the terms and conditions, as well as customer feedback, before making a purchase.
All that being said, this is exactly the reason why you are reading this first-hand review of Airalo.com and not the other made-up ones….right?!
11. Airalo.com Discount Code 10%
We got a Promo Code for Airalo.com for you. It is a sweet 10% off your first purchase. Go ahead, enjoy it!
10€ discount for Airalo (only for our readers)
The coupon code is
HOSTELGEEKS10
The code is valid until 31st of December, 2023.
How to apply?
- Sign up at Airalo.com
- choose your package
- apply the discount by copy-paste
This guide is always up to date. As soon as a promo code is available, we will publish it here. You can bookmark this page and join our newsletter to stay up to date.
In our newsletter, we share all new discount codes with all kinds of travel companies, from sightseeing to flight deals. At this article you can find more promo codes for Airalo.com
12. FAQ
Can Airalo be trusted?
Yes, Airalo is a trusted platform for obtaining eSim cards. It collaborates with reliable mobile network operators worldwide, offering quality coverage and data services. Airalo has positive user reviews and a track record of providing reliable connectivity to travelers around the globe.
Does Airalo work with WhatsApp?
Yes, Airalo works seamlessly with popular messaging apps like WhatsApp. Once you have an active Airalo eSim card with a data plan, you can use it for messaging and other data-based applications, including WhatsApp.
Does Airalo work in Europe?
Yes, Airalo works in Europe. It offers eSim cards with coverage in various European countries, allowing you to stay connected while traveling within the continent.
Does Airalo use my phone number?
No, Airalo uses eSim technology, which does not require your physical SIM card or phone number. It provides a separate digital SIM card that can be activated on your eSim-compatible device.
12.1. How long does it take for the eSIM card to be activated after purchase?
The activation process for Airalo eSIM cards is impressively fast.
Once I completed my purchase and received the activation details, I followed the provided instructions to activate the eSIM card. Within minutes, my eSIM card was activated and ready to use. This quick activation allowed me to start utilizing the data immediately without any unnecessary delays.
It is worth it to mention that you should turn off and turn on your data again if you experience any issues. I once had to shut down and turn on my iPhone; then the eSim Card was fully installed. I am not sure if this is the case with all phones.
Long story short: once purchased, the eSim will be active within 5 minutes.
12.2. Are Airalo eSIM cards compatible with all mobile networks?
This is nothing that you as a traveler have to worry about. The short answer is: no worries, you will have a good connection, same as with any other internet/data provider.
The longer answer is this: Airalo.com collaborates with leading mobile network operators worldwide to ensure extensive network compatibility. This compatibility allows Airalo eSIM cards to connect to reliable networks in the countries where coverage is provided.
During my travels, I experienced seamless connectivity on compatible networks, ensuring that I stayed connected without any major issues. That being said when I was in the middle of nowhere in Sweden, sometimes I only had two out of 4 bars of 4G internet. However, this was not due to Airalo itself. It was simply the coverage in the countryside that was not as good.
12.3 If traveling as a couple, do you need to purchase an eSim for each phone?
You could purchase just one eSim and share your data via a personal hotspot with the second phone. However, usually, the second phone disconnects once the phone is not in use.
Personally, we recommend getting an eSim for each phone if you’re okay with it budget-wise. It is simply easier.
However, if you don’t feel like you’d use a lot of data, or you would only need one phone for basic things, sharing the data is certainly an option.
12.4. Does Airalo offer any customer support or assistance?
Yes, Airalo.com provides customer support to assist users with any inquiries or issues they may have.
They also offer a comprehensive Help Center on their website, featuring frequently asked questions and useful resources for self-assistance.
12.5. Can I use Airalo eSIM cards for voice calls and SMS messaging?
Airalo eSIM cards primarily focus on providing data connectivity, making them ideal for internet-based communication, such as messaging apps and internet calls.
However, traditional voice calls and SMS messaging may not be supported on all Airalo eSIM cards. It’s important to review the specific details of each eSIM card to determine its supported functionalities. In my experience, I primarily used Airalo eSIM cards for data connectivity and relied on internet-based communication methods for staying in touch.
Find more info about creating personal hotspots here.
12.6. Refund or Cancellation policy for Airalo
Airalo.com has a refund and cancellation policy in place, allowing users to request a refund or cancellation under certain circumstances.
The specific details of the policy may vary, so it’s important to review the terms and conditions provided on the Airalo.com website. During my experiences, I found that Airalo.com had reasonable refund and cancellation provisions, ensuring customer satisfaction and flexibility.
12.7. Can I use Airalo eSIM cards for international roaming?
Yes, Airalo eSIM cards are an excellent alternative to traditional international roaming services.
As a frequent traveler, I found that Airalo.com’s eSIM cards provided me with reliable connectivity in various countries without the need for separate SIM cards or high roaming charges. The global coverage offered by Airalo.com allowed me to stay connected during my travels without the hassle of changing SIM cards or dealing with expensive roaming fees.
12.8. Are there any limitations or restrictions when using Airalo eSIM cards?
While Airalo eSIM cards provide excellent connectivity options, it’s important to be aware of certain limitations or restrictions. These may include specific network coverage areas, data usage policies, or limitations on voice calls and SMS messaging. It’s good to review the details of each eSIM card before purchase to understand any limitations or restrictions that may apply.
As mentioned before, you will not be able to call or send Text messages. You will only purchase data. But you can still call via Skype, WhatsApp, and anything internet based.
12.9. How does Airalo eSims work? A Video
Watch this amazing video explaining all steps and infos. This video will walk you through the entire process of pre-purchasing & installing a Europe regional eSim on Airalo.
13. Summary
In conclusion, Airalo.com has undoubtedly fulfilled my exact expectations. Their eSIM card service offers the perfect solution for travelers seeking hassle-free connectivity.
With its convenient online platform (both website and app), instant activation, global coverage, cost-effectiveness, user-friendly interface, and responsive customer support, Airalo.com has become my go-to choice for staying connected during my travels. I highly recommend Airalo.com to fellow globetrotters looking to enhance their travel experience.
Over to you
Have you tried Airalo.com? Which country did you use it with, and what was your experience with it? Is there anything you want to know? Then please, hit the comment section. We would love to hear from you. Your comments, your feedback, and your questions will make this article and guide even more useful for all fellow travelers.
Safe Travels!
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