Airalo eSIM review (2024)

In this Airalo¹ eSIM review for 2024, we explore what it is, how it works, how to activate it and the different Airalo eSIM plans available. We’ll also touch briefly on another smart way to make your trip overseas easier - and often, cheaper.

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What is an eSIM?

An eSIM is a handy travel tool - more or less anywhere in the world - a digital SIM which you can use overseas if you have a compatible device. It avoids the need to switch out and look after your physical SIM card if you want to access low-cost international roaming with a local SIM when you travel.

You might find you have a different number when using an eSIM. Services like WhatsApp will still work as usual, but do check your package details to check if you need to give the eSIM number to people who want to connect with you while you’re away.

How does Airalo eSIM work?

You can buy an Airalo eSIM online or in the Airalo app. First you’ll need to check your device is compatible - Airalo has full lists of the Android³ and iOS phones⁴ which usually have eSIM capabilities. Then, once you’ve bought your preferred plan or package you can install it and activate it, to start using roaming data with your new eSIM.

Buy your eSIM online or in the Airalo app by looking for the country you’re going to and reviewing the available packages⁵. Pick the one you prefer, and tap to buy - pay with a card or an alternative like PayPal, and you’re done.

We’ll look at how to install an Airalo eSIM, and how to activate an Airalo eSIM, next.

Airalo eSIM installation

Before you can use your new eSIM, you’ll need to install and activate it. The process may be slightly different depending on the model and type of phone you have. As an example, we'll work through the steps for typical Apple phones - you can get more information for other phone models on the Airalo website, or you can ask your own phone’s service desk for help if you’re unsure about your device’s eSIM capability.

Here’s how you’ll install an Airalo eSIM on an iOS phone. First you need more information about your eSIM plan⁶:

1. Login to your Airalo account and go to My eSIMs.
2. Select your eSIM and tap the Details button.
3. Tap Install eSIM/Access Data, the tap Manual
4. You’ll be shown the SM-DP + Address & Activation code
5. Take note of this code as you’ll need the details later

Once you have your code, it’s time to install:

1. Go to Settings on your phone and tap Mobile.
2. Tap Add Mobile Data Plan and then select Enter Details Manually
3. Follow the prompts to enter SM-DP+ Address, Activation Code and Confirmation Code from your Airalo Account
4. Go to the Default Line tab and set your eSIM for cellular data only
5. You should see your new eSIM under your Mobile Data Plans

How to activate Airalo eSIM?

Now you’ve installed your eSIM, you need to activate it. Here’s how to activate an Airalo eSIM, again on an Apple phone:

1. Go to Settings on your phone and tap Mobile
2. Find your newly installed eSIM plan and toggle the option to turn on the line
3. Tap Mobile Data Network, and follow the prompt to enter your eSIM APN code - this is available in your Airalo account
4. Go back to Settings on your phone and tap Mobile
5. Select your eSIM for Mobile Data
6. Turn off "Allow Cellular Data Switching" to avoid charges on your normal UK SIM
7. Go to your eSIM settings and select the network you want to connect to

Airalo eSIM plans and prices

You can buy Airalo eSIMs on a single country, regional or global basis. Prices are quoted in currencies including USD and AUD - but not GBP. For this pricing example we’ve used the USD prices, but you can check out all your package options online or in the app.

Here are some example Airalo eSIM plans and prices to consider, looking at local, regional and global 7 day plans. Plans are also available for up to 30 days, or to include a larger amount of data and call times:

Airalo eSIM: Pros and Cons

Here’s a quick look at a few of the pros and cons of the Airalo eSIM:

Pros:

• Low costs and flexible packages
• No need to buy a physical SIM on arrival at your destination
• Choose data only or buy call time and SMS if you need to

Cons:

• You need a compatible device
• Variable fees depending on the specific package
• Only select mobile networks supported

Airalo eSIM FAQs

1. How to use Airalo eSIM on iPhone

Check you have a compatible iPhone, and select and buy an Airalao eSIM package from their website or app. You’ll now need to install and activate your eSIM - there’s an outline of the process in this guide, and Airalo agents can help you if you’re stuck.

2. Does Airalo eSIM give you a phone number?

You may get a new phone number with your Airalo eSIM. This depends on the plan you pick and the capabilities of your phone. Airalo states you can use your dual SIM function if available, to continue using your UK number alongside your eSIM if you would like to.

3. Can I use WhatsApp on Airalo?

Yes, WhatsApp will continue to work just as normal with your eSIM once it’s been installed and activated.

4. Can I send text messages with Airalo?

Some Airalo packages include SMS messages - this depends on the specific plan you choose. Look out for plans marked Data/Calls/Texts to get SMS included.

5. Can I make phone calls on Airalo?

Some Airalo eSIM packages allow for phone calls - usually there will be a specific number of minutes within the package. Look out for plans marked Data/Calls/Texts and pick the call duration you need.

Travelling abroad? Use the Wise Card for low-cost international spending

An eSIM is a good way to make sure you have uninterrupted access to data and calls when you’re away from home - making your holiday much easier and, possibly, cheaper compared to using your UK roaming.

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Sources used:

Sources last checked on date: 24-July-2024