Ratgeber
Internet abroad without roaming
So you can surf cheaply and securely - anywhere in the world.
Roaming charges can quickly become expensive - especially outside the EU. With a eSIM, you'll be online as soon as you land, without having to change SIM cards and without any nasty surprises on your cell phone bill. Find out how it works here.
The problem: Expensive roaming costs abroad
We've all been there: you land in your vacation destination, switch on your cell phone and suddenly you're paying €10 for a few megabytes of data. Roaming is free within the EU, but as soon as you leave the EU - for example in the USA, Thailand or Dubai - the costs can quickly explode.
Many travelers therefore opt for Wi-Fi hotspots in hotels and cafés. The problem: you are not mobile, the connections are often slow and unreliable. Navigation, translation apps and WhatsApp don't work on the move.
The classic alternative - buying a local SIM card at the airport - is cumbersome, time-consuming and often overpriced. This is exactly where eSIM comes into play.
The solution: eSIM for mobile Internet without roaming
A eSIM is a digital SIM card that you load onto your smartphone before or during your trip using an app or QR-Code. No card changes, no stress - just activate and surf away.
Can be activated immediately
Set up via QR-Code or app in under 5 minutes. Ready for take-off even before departure.
No SIM change
Your normal SIM remains in the device. The eSIM is used as an additional data plan.
Cheaper than roaming
Local data tariffs from €4. Save up to 90% on roaming charges.
Usable worldwide
eSIM tariffs for 200+ countries - from the USA to Thailand and Japan.
Best eSIM providers
Our top recommendations at a glance.
Airalo
Worldwide eSIM with over 200 countries, fast activation and flexible data packages.
- 200+ countries covered
- Top-rated app
- Fast activation
Nomad
Inexpensive eSIM with stable performance for budget travelers.
- Low rates from € 5
- 100+ countries
- Simple setup
Holafly
eSIM with unlimited data volume for stress-free travel.
- Real unlimited data
- Ideal for longer trips
- No data limit
Direct comparison
| Airalo | Nomad | Holafly | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Price starting at | €4 | 5 € | 19 € |
| Countries | 200+ | 100+ | 60+ |
| Unlimited | No | No | Yes |
| App rating | 4.6 ★ | 4.3 ★ | 4.4 ★ |
| Best use | Flexible | Budget | Unlimited |
| Rating | 4.8 / 5 | 4.5 / 5 | 4.6 / 5 |
Important details
How does a eSIM work?
A eSIM (embedded SIM) is a chip in your smartphone onto which digital mobile phone profiles are loaded. After purchase, you will receive a QR-Code or app access. You scan this with your device and the eSIM is set up automatically. Activate it as a data plan in the settings - done. Your normal SIM card remains active so that you can still be reached on your number.
How do I install a eSIM?
Installation usually takes less than 5 minutes. With most providers, you download an app (e.g. Airalo, Holafly), purchase your tariff and follow the instructions on the screen. Alternatively, you can scan a QR-Code, which you will receive by e-mail. Important: The eSIM should ideally be installed before your trip - activation will then only take place at your destination.
What does a eSIM cost compared to roaming?
A eSIM is significantly cheaper than roaming. Example USA: 1 GB roaming with German providers often costs €10-20. A eSIM with 5 GB for USA is available from Airalo for as little as €4.50. At Holafly you can even get unlimited data volume for 7 days for around €19. The savings are typically 80-90% compared to classic roaming.
eSIM vs. SIM card vs. roaming
Roaming is the simplest but most expensive option - your home tariff is billed abroad. Local SIM cards are cheaper, but require a physical card change and are not always easy to find. The eSIM combines the best of both worlds: cheap local tariffs, digital activation, no card change and full flexibility.
Which smartphones support eSIM?
Most modern smartphones support eSIM: iPhone from XS (2018), Samsung Galaxy from S20, Google Pixel from Pixel 3, Huawei P40 and newer, as well as many other manufacturers. If in doubt, check in your device settings under 'Mobile network' or 'SIM cards' whether the option 'Add eSIM' is available.
Which trip needs what?
Vacation
You are going on vacation for 1-2 weeks and need Internet for navigation, WhatsApp and social media. A eSIM with 3-5 GB is completely sufficient and only costs €4-8.
Recommendation: Airalo or Nomad with a small data package.
Business travel
You need reliable Internet for emails, video calls and cloud work. Here, stability counts more than price - Unlimited tariffs are ideal.
Recommendation: Holafly Unlimited for stress-free working.
Backpacking
You travel through several countries over several weeks. Regional eSIM tariffs (e.g. Asia, Europe) save you switching between individual country tariffs.
Recommendation: Airalo with regional eSIM for maximum flexibility.
Short trip / weekend trip
You only need a few days of mobile Internet for a short city trip. Small packages with 1-3 GB are perfect and extremely cheap.
Recommendation: Nomad with mini package from €3 for short trips.
Frequently asked questions
Is eSIM better than roaming?
In most cases, yes. eSIM is significantly cheaper (up to 90 % savings), more flexible and easier to activate than roaming - especially outside the EU.
Does eSIM work everywhere in the world?
Almost. The major providers such as Airalo cover 200+ countries. There are always suitable rates for the most popular destinations (USA, Europe, Thailand, Japan, etc.).
Can I keep my normal SIM card?
Yes, you use the eSIM as an additional data tariff in parallel to your normal SIM. Your phone number and SMS remain active.
How fast is the Internet with eSIM?
Most eSIM tariffs use 4G/LTE networks, some even offer 5G. The speed is comparable to a local mobile phone contract in the country of travel.
Is there eSIM with unlimited data volume?
Yes. Holafly offers real unlimited tariffs for many countries. Ideal for streaming, video calls and intensive surfing.
What happens after my eSIM tariff expires?
The tariff simply expires. There is no automatic renewal or hidden costs. You can buy a new package at any time.
Do I need WLAN for the installation?
Yes, the initial installation of the eSIM requires an Internet connection (WLAN). After that, the eSIM works independently via mobile radio.
Can I also use the eSIM for Hotspot?
Yes with some providers and tariffs. Ubigi supports hotspot/tethering most reliably. Check the tariff details before purchasing.
Internet abroad doesn't have to be expensive
With a eSIM, you can get online quickly, easily and cheaply when traveling - without roaming costs and without changing SIM cards. Compare the best providers now and find the right tariff for your next travel destination.
Compare the best eSIM providers