Nomad eSIM review

Heading out for a trip and looking for a way to stay connected while travelling? An eSIM can help you cut down on expensive roaming charges when travelling outside the UK.

That's why we've created a Nomad eSIM review for 2024, including all the important details you might need. This includes how to activate the eSIM, what plans are available and how it works. We'll also highlight some key pros and cons of Nomad eSIMs.

And if you need a cost-effective way to handle your finances across borders, check out the Wise international debit card. It lets you spend and withdraw cash like a local in 150+ countries - and all for low fees* and at the mid-market exchange rate.

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What is an eSIM?¹

An embedded eSIM or eSIM for short is a virtual SIM card. Depending on the plan, it has most or all features a traditional SIM card would usually have. It can help you avoid roaming fees while travelling outside the UK, without replacing your current phone plan.

If a trip abroad suddenly comes up, an eSIM is one of the most convenient options. You won’t have to remove or replace your physical SIM card and you’ll get instant data access.

How does Nomad eSIM work?¹

Nomad is an eSIM provider offering data-only plans to help you stay connected while travelling. Their plans are designed to be used in over 190 countries and they even have plans you can use in multiple countries.

You can get their eSIM in just a few minutes, with a simple one-tap installation or QR code scanning. Nomad eSIMs support tethering, so you can use your data on multiple devices.

If you’re not sure which plan you should get, Nomad has a helpful data calculator available. After answering some simple questions, such as what apps you most frequently use and where you’re travelling to, you’ll get a plan recommendation.²

Nomad eSIM installation³

The first step in installing a Nomad eSIM is downloading the Nomad app and choosing a package that’s right for you. Once you purchase the plan, you can install it automatically or manually.

These are the steps for automatic installation:

1. Tap Manage eSIM
2. Select the eSIM you wish to install
3. Tap Installation instructions
4. Tap Add automatically and then Install eSIM now
5. Follow the instructions

If you’re unable to install your eSIM automatically, you can do so manually via QR code or manual input.

Here are the steps for the first option if you have an iPhone:

1. Open Settings
2. Tap Cellular and then Add cellular plan
3. Scan the QR code you received via email or in-app

Finally, manual input is available on all iOS devices and some Androids. Follow these instructions:

1. Go to Settings
2. Tap Cellular and Add cellular plan
3. Choose Enter details manually
4. Enter the information your received via email or app

Please note that your device needs to be unlocked and compatible with eSIM technology. The list of supported devices includes iOS and Android phones, tablets and laptops.⁴

How to activate Nomad eSIM?³

Some Nomad eSIMs require manual activation, while others are activated automatically once you reach your destination. You can check this in the Nomad app by looking for the manual activation button. If you don’t see it, no further action is needed.

When you arrive at your destination, make sure that data roaming is enabled for your Nomad eSIM.

Nomad eSIM plans and prices

Nomad has single-country and regional eSIM options, one of them being the global plan. Prices depend on the amount of data, duration, and the destination you're travelling to, starting at less than a pound.⁵

Here are a few examples of Nomad eSIM plans and prices to consider, varying by destination, duration and data amount:

Nomad eSIM: Pros and Cons

Here’s a quick look at some of the pros and cons of the Nomad eSIM:

Pros:

• Variety of package durations and data amounts
• Secure and reliable internet connection
• Wi-Fi hotspot option

Cons:

• Suitable for data roaming only - not for calls or SMS
• Your device must be compatible with Nomad eSIMs
• Variable fees depending on the specific package

Nomad eSIM FAQs

Here are some common questions about Nomad eSIMs:

Can I use WhatsApp with Nomad eSIM?

Since Nomad offers data-only plans, you can use WhatsApp with your primary phone number.

Does Nomad eSIM give you a phone number?

No, Nomad eSIMs don’t come with a local phone number.

Is Nomad eSIM data only?

Yes, Nomad offers data plans only.

Can you text on Nomad eSIM?

No, you can’t text with a Nomad eSIM since it doesn’t come with a phone number.

Does Nomad eSIM work in the UK?

Yes, Nomad eSIM offers UK plans.

Going abroad? Get the Wise Card for low-cost international spending

To ensure you have continuous data access while abroad, consider buying an eSIM before your trip. As you can see from our Nomad eSIM review, this will save you time and possibly money you would otherwise pay for UK roaming.

And if you want to spend abroad without worrying about exchange rates and hidden fees, the Wise international debit card might be the ideal travel companion.

You can use your card for international payments in 150+ countries. It automatically converts your pounds to the currency you need in your destination at the mid-market exchange rate with only a small, transparent currency conversion fee*. Open a Wise account online, hold and exchange 40+ currencies and order the Wise card for a one-time fee of £7.

You also get two free ATM withdrawals to the value of 200 GBP each month. After that, there is a charge of 0.5 GBP per withdrawal. There’s also a 1.75% fee on any amount you withdraw above 200 GBP.

Please see the Terms of Use for your region or visit Wise fees & pricing for the most up-to-date information on pricing and fees.

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Sources used:

Sources last checked on date: 20-Nov-2024