Going to Europe? The Right eSIM for Travel Keeps You Connected Instantly
If you’re flying from Pakistan, India, UAE or anywhere else to Europe for study, work or tourism, one thing you should arrange before departure is an eSIM for travel. Without it, roaming costs can be very high, and searching for local SIM cards after landing wastes time and money.
A Europe eSIM lets you activate mobile data in minutes, often covering multiple EU countries in a single plan.
Best eSIM for Travel in Europe: Top Providers
Here are some trusted options travelers commonly use:
- Saily – Affordable and reliable with fast speeds and simple activation
- Airalo – Popular global provider; its Europe plan covers 42 countries with flexible data sizes
- Holafly – Ideal for heavy users thanks to unlimited data plans (hotspot sharing may be restricted)
- Orange Travel – Includes a European phone number for calls and texts, not just data
- MobiMatter – Compares multiple providers and often offers the lowest per GB prices
Europe eSIM Pricing Comparison
As of today, 23rd Feb 2026, the price plans offered by the top eSim providers are:
| Provider | 1 GB (7 days) | 5 GB (30 days) | 10 GB (30 days) | Unlimited Data |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MobiMatter | ~$3.49 | ~$11.00 | ~$14.49 | N/A |
| Saily | $4.99 | $19.49 | $35.99 | $71.99 / 30 days |
| Airalo | $4.50 | $17.00 | $31.00 | $31.50 / 10 days |
| Holafly | N/A | N/A | N/A | $27.30 / 7 days |
Budget focused marketplaces sometimes offer 15GB for around $14.49, while unlimited plans cost more depending on duration.
Plans that include calling and SMS, like Orange Travel, are usually priced higher.
Why Use an eSIM for Travel in Europe
- Works across borders
Most Europe eSIMs automatically connect when moving between EU countries. - Instant setup
You receive a QR code by email and can activate it before landing. - Keep your home SIM active
Continue using your Pakistan or India number for WhatsApp or calls while the eSIM handles cheap data.
Before Buying an eSIM for Travel
Check these first:
- Your phone must support eSIM (iPhone XS/XR or newer, most flagship Android models from 2019+)
- The device must be carrier-unlocked
- Install the eSIM while connected to stable Wi-Fi before departure
Why This Matters for South Asian Travelers
Thousands of travelers from Pakistan and India visit Europe every year for:
- University admissions and student visas
- Seasonal or skilled jobs
- Tourism and family visits
Using an eSIM for travel means:
- No airport SIM queues
- No language barriers at local shops
- Immediate internet access for maps, taxis, and immigration updates
Smart Money Tip
If your trip focuses mainly on one country like France or Italy, choose a single country eSIM. These can be 20 to 40% cheaper than full Europe regional plans.
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J. Maham is a specialized travel and immigration analyst with a focus on European work permits and South Asian’s mobility. With over 5 years of experience tracking global visa policy shifts, Maham provides verified, actionable insights for professionals seeking legal pathways to the EU and beyond.