Airalo Review: A Reliable Travel eSIM Card for Europe 2025
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The eSIM industry has transformed the way we are able to stay connected, anywhere in the world. But it hasn’t always been a no-brainer, and in the beginning, we approached the concept cautiously because honestly, it sounded too good to be true!
Fast forward to now, we’ve embraced the eSIM as an essential travel tool. In fact, we never recommend a Europe trip without the mention of an eSIM opposed to a traditional physical SIM card.
After testing different eSIM providers that are valid in Europe, we’ve landed on our favorite: Airalo. This review is based on our own experiences and the product’s performance, specifically for European travel.
In this review, we cover the reasons why you should be using an Airalo eSIM, what to expect, and how to use it.
The Benefits of Using an eSIM for Travel
The key factor for the growing appeal of the eSIM product boils down to the fact that you do not need to purchase a physical and local SIM card while traveling.
The eSIM falls into our modern world’s trend of being able to purchase and set up everything directly from your phone. These are the reasons why you should consider opting for an Airalo eSIM while traveling to Europe.
Better Connectivity With a Local Provider
Although purchasing an international package with your home cell phone carrier is convenient, the connectivity is often poor or limited.
eSIM cards like Airalo utilize local networks, which means that you will receive reception and service just as good as the people who live there do.
Cheaper Pricing Compared to International Data Packages
eSIM data packages are a fraction of the cost that you would pay your home cell phone company for an international package. These are often very limited in options and cost around $30 for just 5GB – 10GB of data.
Start reviewing Airalo prices for your Europe trip here. You’ll quickly see how much more affordable they are than your home network’s “international package.”
There’s No Need to Switch Out a Physical Sim Card
If you are used to purchasing a physical SIM card when traveling, the eSIM eliminates the need to hunt down a SIM card kiosk. You don’t have to deal with making sure the new SIM card works to begin with or losing your old SIM card in the process.
Have a Connection Immediately Upon Landing or Entering Your Destination
With an eSIM card, you simply turn it on through your phone’s settings, and you are ready to go. Eliminate that interim period of panic where you are in a new country and do not have data or a connection to the internet and your information.
Easy Access to Airalo Customer Support
Being a tech company, their service is accessible online in the case of any issues or troubleshooting. Opposed to dealing with your home carrier while overseas or having to go into a storefront of a local phone company, Airalo customer service is at your fingertips.
😊 Overall, the many benefits of using an eSIM can be wrapped up in one word: convenience.
Reviewing the Best eSIM for Europe Travel
There are features to look out for in the phone data market that will help determine which is the best eSIM card for travel to Europe. While reviewing Airalo, these are the offers that stood out to us about their service.
Airalo Hotspot Capability
This is particularly convenient to have if you’re traveling to the countryside of Europe or anywhere off the grid. Although it sounds like a given, not every hotel or Airbnb will have Wi-Fi.
Or, the Wi-Fi can be ridiculously slow while cell data works well. If you have the ability to hotspot, you can stay connected on other devices like a laptop.
Utilizing cell data to create a personal hotspot has allowed us to work from some incredible places and not just an office.
Large Number of Data Packages
Customers can choose a data package for the particular country(s) they are travelling to or they can select a regional package for Europe. The latter consists of access to data without any changes throughout the 39 countries.
This is absolutely ideal for people travelling to multiple countries within Europe during one trip.
Airalo packages also vary in length for your trip, which means you can pay only for what you truly need. Furthermore, Airalo offers flexibility with global coverage that can also include texting and a new temporary phone number.
⭐️ Already know which countries you’re traveling to? Start reviewing your destination’s data plans on Airalo’s site.
The Ability To Top Up Your Credit
Even after you may use up all of your data that was originally included in a purchased package, you can buy more with Airalo to hold you over.
For example, after you exceed the 10GB you purchased, you can buy a smaller package for 2GB to last until your trip is over. This is not something that’s standard with all companies.
Data-Only or With SMS and Calling
You can choose between data-only packages opposed to SIM cards that come with a phone number by default. Using a SIM card for travel to Europe that only affects your data plan helps avoid any issues with your device’s confusion about your “real” phone number.
We have personally had problems in the past when it came to apps like WhatsApp or an iCloud account. Airalo does offer complete packages that are inclusive of data, SMS, and calling (more on this below) but depending on your trip, you may not need all of this.
A Sweet and Short Referral Program
Anytime you refer with Airalo, they reward you with a credit which can be used on future eSIM packages. This is an easy way to save a few dollars if you’re traveling with family or a group of friends.
OK But… Is Airalo Legit?
Yes! Airalo is a relatively new company, but their stats, service, and over 5 million users speak for themselves.
We will admit, the thought of using an eSIM was a skeptical idea, but as all avid travelers do, we’ve adapted to not only accept the new norm but really love it. Airalo will not leave you in a situation where you purchase something blindly online and not have a product delivered in return, we promise!
It’s straightforward – Airalo provides a functioning product and service.
⚠️ We would not review Airalo unless we truly believed in it. While Airalo does work, other eSIM companies fall short. One of the first times we tried an eSIM service was with Holafly and we never came back after a horrific experience. Not only did the service plainly not work, the customer service didn’t offer any solution or compensation.
Which European Countries Does Airalo Work In?
Airalo operates in 39 European countries, which includes tiny microstates like Liechtenstein and Monaco. All major Western, Eastern, and Central European countries are covered by Airalo.
The coverage also extends to European islands like Cyprus and through the far east of the Balkans Peninsula (Montenegro, North Macedonia, Albania, and more).
The regional packages that Airalo offers are excellent for travelers looking to make multiple stops during one trip. By purchasing the regional eSIM for Europe, you gain access to data regardless of which European country you are in.
No additional activation is required as you move from one state to another.
What Are the Airalo Prices for Data in Europe?
The prices for various Airalo packages depend on the market or, in other words, the country. Although there is a pretty standard pattern, the pricing tiers are dependent on your destination in addition to the duration of validity (how many days) and amount of data you want to purchase.
Most European countries will offer six different Airalo data packages.
On average, you’ll always be able to find a minimum data package of 1 GB that is usually valid for seven days. The average price for this data package across popular countries in Europe will cost around $5 or less.
The data packages only increase from this point but will range from 1 GB to 20 or 30GB. Most commonly, data packages for various European countries will offer a seven-day, 15-day, and 30-day validity duration.
As an example, we’ll review the price of a 10GB package that’s valid for 30 days. We found that prices start as little as $18 in Spain but can be as much as $23 in France, Italy, and the UK.
One of the best deals we came across for an eSIM in Europe is $16 for 30GB and 30 days, valid in the country of Bulgaria.
The Europe regional eSIM package is more expensive but seamlessly covers most of the continent. For example, a 10GB (for 30 days) regional package costs $37 while the largest option costs $185 for 100GB (and 180 days).
💰 Airalo Review Tip: If you know for certain that you will remain in one or two countries while visiting Europe, choosing an Airalo package specific to that country is a much better value.
How the Airalo eSIM Works
The magic of an eSIM would be useless if it weren’t for the revolution of eSIM-compatible devices. This is the first step to being able to utilize Airalo – you must have an eSIM-compatible mobile phone.
For iPhone users, it’s safe to assume that any iPhone from 2018 and later is compatible with eSIM cards. Android and other mobile device users can refer here to learn how to check if your phone is compatible or not.
Equally as important, you must operate Airalo on an unlocked device. This means that your phone is not under contract with one exclusive network, and you can freely switch out SIM cards or providers as you will.
Despite popular belief, the “e” in eSIM card doesn’t stand for electronic. It stands for embedded. The reason why services like Airalo can work like magic is because an eSIM compatible device has an embedded SIM (or chip) built into your phone, which can be managed digitally.
Companies like Airalo are able to offer customers data from various networks because of their partnerships with telecommunications companies all over the world.
Purchasing a data package with Airalo means you are able to allow your phone’s eSIM to be programmed for access to data with a specific network provider. eSIM compatible phones can support and store multiple eSIMs.
A bit mind boggling? Don’t worry – all that you need to know as a consumer is straightforward.
How To Activate the Airalo eSIM
Step 1
Download the Airalo app to browse, shop, and select the data package you want to purchase. You can also purchase a package on the desktop version of Airalo’s website. Your purchases will show up in the app once you sign in.
In the Airalo app, you’ll see your eSIMs and the option to “Install / Access Data” as the first step.
Step 2
The Airalo app will then prompt you to begin adding the eSIM to your device, which is ultimately what will allow you to use the eSIM.
The Airalo app is not what manages your eSIM’s functionality, this is your phone’s job. You must follow the configuration steps according to Airalo’s instructions. This includes adding Airalo as a data plan, renaming it, and setting it as the default mobile line.
Step 3
Only upon arriving at your destination in Europe will you go into your phone’s mobile data settings to turn on the Airalo data plan and select your network. At this time, you’ll make sure that your home network is turned off so you avoid any roaming charges.
By turning on the Airalo data plan on your phone, you’ll be able to start using the local network in the European country you’re in. That’s it!
A huge part of why Airalo is positively reviewed is the clear instructions, easy setup, and tons of installation/troubleshooting resources they offer to new customers. Check out their library of materials here!
FAQs for Using Airalo
Do You Need WiFi To Use Airalo?
To initially install Airalo, you need to be connected to the internet, which can be done through cellular data or Wi-Fi. You do not exclusively need Wi-Fi to complete the registration and setup.
Once Airalo is installed and turned on, you do not need Wi-Fi for Airalo to work. You will have access through Airalo (ie the local cell data providers).
We recommend utilizing Airalo while you’re out and about or in areas with no Wi-Fi. To efficiently retain as much Airalo data as possible, turn off cellular data in places where you can use Wi-Fi (hotel, restaurant, etc.).
Does the eSIM Need To Be Activated Before Arriving at Your Destination?
Nobody wants to waste time setting up their cellular data during a vacation or trip. Therefore, it’s highly recommended to get Airalo situated before you arrive at your destination.
This means you should install and activate your Airalo eSIM before getting on the plane. Then, you must wait to actually turn on the eSIM and select a network until after landing at your destination. So, the Airalo eSIM will be ready in your phone but will not be used until you’re in Europe.
If you do not install the Airalo eSIM before arriving in Europe, you will have to find a Wi-Fi connection at the airport to do so. This doesn’t take a lot of time, but being prepared with an internet connection as soon as you land is a much better feeling.
With Airalo, Do You Keep Your Original Number?
Unless you choose the Discover+ data package, you’re likely purchasing a data-only plan. This means that a phone number is not associated with the eSIM card you are installing.
Your “home” phone number will remain as is, you’re simply replacing the data (internet connection) aspect of using your phone abroad.
Throughout the Airalo setup procedure, your phone will ask you if you want to keep your original phone number active for things like iMessage or your data line. By doing so, you can simultaneously receive text messages to your “home” phone number while using the Airalo eSIM for data.
Follow the recommendations of which selections to make from the Airalo setup guide and video for the most optimal experience.
Does Airalo Offer SMS Texting and Calling?
Global options are available with Airalo that do include texting, calling, and data. This product is relatively new and called Discover+, but it’s only available for global data packages and not with country-specific plans.
The Discover+ data packages are valid in 130 countries and range from a duration of just seven days to one year. None of these plans are unlimited, which means there is a certain amount of minutes allowed for calls and number of texts you can send, depending on the tier you choose.
Is Whatsapp Usable With Airalo?
Of course! WhatsApp is the best messenger app and tool to have downloaded while traveling. Although it’s not super popular in the U.S., WhatsApp is extremely common throughout Europe and is the easiest way to communicate with businesses, your Airbnb, and hotels while abroad.
WhatsApp will work seamlessly while using your activated Airalo eSIM in Europe because the app is dependent on an internet connection, regardless of whether it’s data or Wi-Fi.
The only thing to be mindful of is to keep your old phone number associated with your WhatsApp account. Upon opening the WhatsApp account after installing Airalo, it may ask you if you want to switch phone numbers or keep your old one.
Always choose “keep my number” to avoid disruptions to your WhatsApp account.
Airalo Alternatives: Other eSIM Providers
Orange
Orange is a French company, so understandably, they have many connections with providers throughout the European continent.
Unlike Airalo, Orange is a massive telecommunications and digital service provider that has been in business since the ’70s. In other words, they have a ton of experience to back their entrance into the eSIM industry, specifically within Europe.
Holafly
One of Airalo’s most direct competitor is Holafly, another well-known eSIM provider that’s frequently used among avid travelers. Their biggest advantage over Airalo is unlimited data. Nearly all of Holafly’s data packages in Europe include unlimited data for a certain validation period (5 days – 90 days).
However, their prices are therefore much higher, and if you really don’t need unlimited data, you’ll end up overpaying.
Nomad
Nomad’s pricing for country-specific data plans is on par, if not slightly higher than those you’ll find on Airalo. On the other hand, the pricing for their Europe regional package is very competitive.
If you’re lucky to take advantage of their sales, you can buy a 20GB package for only $22.
Not sure how much data you’ll need? Nomad’s website also has a really neat data calculator which recommends what data package is best suited for you based on your destination, length of visit, and what you’ll primarily be using your phone for.
Honest Review of Our Airalo Experience
This Airalo eSIM review for Europe travel is based on our own genuine experiences, which we can confidently say have been positive. Particularly after trying other eSIM services, Airalo effortlessly tops the list, and we’ll continue to use it during our travels.
Airalo is accurately advertised, offers a range of options, works in almost every corner of the world, and delivers on promises. In addition to their satisfying level of support and customer service, Airalo is the must-use travel tool we’d recommend to anyone embarking on a Europe trip.
There are very few perfect products in this world, so naturally, there is one or two downsides to using Airalo. These are the pros and cons from our Airalo review.
Pros of Using Airalo in Europe
- Wide range of options help users avoid overpaying for what you don’t need.
- Data connection is available instantly upon arrival in Europe.
- Flash deals (up to 50% off) in popular countries create opportunities to score amazing deals on data packages.
- The Europe regional package is excellent for a multi-stop European vacation.
- Ability to easily monitor data usage in the Airalo app and top up if needed.
Cons of Using Airalo in Europe
- It is more expensive than purchasing a physical SIM card locally. Airalo isn’t the most economical choice for budget travellers.
- Lack of unlimited data packages for Europe.
- Installation and setup can be challenging for people who aren’t used to tech.
