Nomad eSIM: Is It the Best eSIM for International Travel in 2025?

Nomad eSIM is a top contender for international travelers in 2025. It offers global coverage in 170+ countries, affordable data plans, and an easy 5-minute setup process through an app or QR code. With prices starting at $1.50/GB and features like mobile hotspot support and automatic network switching, it’s designed for convenience and cost savings.

Key Highlights:

• Coverage: 170+ countries with reliable 4G/5G speeds.
• Pricing:
  • Regional Plans: $15 for 10GB in the U.S. (30 days).
  • Global Plans: From $7.20/GB.
• Setup: Quick activation via app or QR code.
• User Ratings: 4.8/5 on App Store, 4.5/5 on TrustPilot.

Quick Comparison:

1. Nomad eSIM Features

For digital nomads, staying connected globally and getting set up quickly is crucial. Nomad eSIM makes this easy with wide coverage, affordable plans, and a setup process that takes just 5 minutes.

Global Coverage and Network Performance

Nomad works in over 170 countries by partnering with local networks. Here’s how its download speeds stack up in different locations:

Along with reliable speeds, Nomad offers data plans that fit various budgets.

Data Plan Pricing

Nomad provides both regional and global data plans with flexible options:

These plans are designed to meet the needs of frequent travelers while staying cost-effective.

Setup and Activation Process

Getting started with Nomad is quick and easy. The setup process includes:

• Installing the Nomad app
• Scanning a QR code
• Configuring settings manually (if needed)

The entire process takes just about 5 minutes.

Key Features

Nomad eSIM comes with several useful features:

• Data-only service
• Mobile hotspot support
• Automatic network switching
• Add-on data packages
• Pre-installation without immediate activation [3]

Pro Tip: Make sure your device is unlocked, eSIM-compatible, and that data roaming is enabled at your destination.

2. Airalo eSIM Details

Airalo is making travel connectivity simpler with its wide coverage and affordable data plans.

Network Coverage and Performance

Airalo works with leading carriers in 199 countries [5]. In the U.S., it connects through AT&T and T-Mobile, while in the U.K., it uses Telefonica O2 [4]. With over 10 million users globally [6], the network’s performance depends on the location - some areas provide 5G speeds, while others may only support 3G [5]. Be sure to check the available speeds for your destination before committing to a plan.

Data Plan Pricing

Airalo’s plans cater to a variety of travel needs:

For example, a traveler in Ireland used a $15 Airalo plan for a week - saving significantly compared to a $35 carrier charge for less than 500 MB of daily high-speed data [7]. Plus, the setup process is designed to be quick and hassle-free.

Setup Process

Airalo makes installation simple with three methods:

• Direct Installation
  Install through the Airalo app (requires Wi-Fi). Note that this option isn’t available for all eSIMs.

• Manual Setup
  Follow device-specific instructions for manual configuration.

• QR Code Installation
  Scan a QR code and follow the steps. Check the activation policy for your eSIM beforehand [8].

“Airalo has been, by far, the easiest, most useful, and most cost-effective option for traveling abroad that I have found.” – BCGregory [6]

Pro Tip: Ensure your device is carrier-unlocked and made after 2018, as most flagship models from that year onward support eSIM technology [8].

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3. Holafly eSIM Overview

Holafly stands out with its unlimited data plans and easy activation process. Since 2017, it has served over 1 million customers and offers coverage in more than 160 countries [9].

Network Coverage and Performance

Holafly partners with local carriers to provide reliable 3G/4G LTE service, with 5G available in many areas. Their service quality is backed by a 4.7-star rating from around 35,000 Trustpilot reviews [9].

Data Plan Pricing

Holafly’s pricing aligns with its broad global coverage. For example, in the US, a 5-day plan costs $19, a 15-day plan is $47, and a 60-day plan is $87. Similar pricing tiers apply for countries like the UK and Japan [9].

Pro Tip: While Holafly’s upfront costs might seem higher, you get truly unlimited data with no hidden caps [9].

Setup Process and Usage

Activating a Holafly eSIM is simple: scan the QR code sent to your email. If you encounter issues, detailed device-specific guides are provided.

“The instructions were super easy to follow and I had no problems with the service for the whole 20 days that I used it. It was nice not to worry about how much my phone company was going to charge me for service abroad.”
– Karen Christensen, Verified buyer [10]

However, there are some limitations to keep in mind. Hotspotting and tethering may not work in many countries, fair usage policies could affect speeds, and activation should be done only after arriving at your destination.

In July 2024, traveler Milet Miranda highlighted Holafly’s dependability by maintaining steady 4G connectivity in remote areas of Finnish Lapland and Iceland, even when users of other services faced signal issues [10].

Key Differences Between Providers

Tests show noticeable performance differences between Nomad and Airalo. For example, Nomad achieved speeds of 155 Mbps in the United Kingdom and 49.2 Mbps in Malaysia. Meanwhile, Airalo recorded speeds of 181 Mbps in Dubai and 112 Mbps in Vietnam[1]. These results provide a clear basis for comparing their network performance, pricing, and standout features.

Network Performance and Coverage

Pricing Structure and Value

Nomad generally offers better pricing for larger data bundles. For example, a 10GB plan for Japan costs $17 with Nomad, compared to $18 with Airalo[11]. While Airalo is competitive for smaller data packages, Nomad provides more savings for higher-volume plans. Here’s a comparison of 5GB plan pricing across a few destinations:

Unique Features

• Nomad: Offers multi-network access, allowing smooth carrier switching and reliable connectivity[11].
• Airalo: Stands out with its extensive global reach, user-friendly app, and a loyalty rewards program offering up to 10% credits.

Final Verdict

Nomad eSIM has proven to be a dependable option for international travelers, backed by feedback from 2025 users and a solid 4.7/5.0 average rating from over 12,000 reviews [12]. With coverage spanning more than 170 countries, it offers reliable connectivity that meets the needs of modern travelers. Let’s break down its pricing and technical performance.

Nomad stands out for its cost-effective options, especially for extended trips and larger data plans. Regional plans start at $1.44/GB, while global plans are priced at $7.20/GB [14]. Current deals, like a 30-day global plan with 3GB for $26, make it even more appealing.

From a technical perspective, Nomad is both reliable and easy to use. An expert review highlighted its strengths:

“One of, if not the best travel eSIM provider available right now. We have been impressed with Nomad’s signal strength, pricing and ease of use.” [1]

However, no product is without its drawbacks. While the app is visually appealing, its navigation can feel slower compared to other options. Additionally, global plans cover 106–113 countries [13], which may require users to purchase regional plans for complete worldwide coverage.

For digital nomads and frequent travelers, Nomad eSIM offers a strong combination of dependable connectivity, competitive pricing, and a user-friendly interface. Its flexible data options and multi-network support make it a practical solution for staying connected on the go.