Best eSIM for Asia in 2024: Ultimate Guide
Are you planning a trip to Asia and in need of mobile data once you land? Well, an eSIM is your solution, and I can attest to that from personal experience.
Whether you require internet access for a week or a month, there’s an ideal eSIM option for your next Asian adventure. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll introduce you to the finest eSIM choices for Asia!
We’ve also included information on the best regional plans for Asia, just in case your journey spans multiple countries in the region. This guide covers device compatibility, eSIM support, and useful tips for using eSIMs in Asia, so read on to discover the optimal eSIM options for your Asian travels!
Benefits of having an eSIM for Asia
The primary advantage of having an Asia eSIM is easy access to the internet whenever you need it. No more suffering from data roaming charges, which often provide meager data allowances at exorbitant costs.
Moreover, you won’t have to wander around a foreign city hunting for an international SIM card for Asia. Instead, you can conveniently purchase and set up an eSIM online. Additionally, if you acquire an eSIM data plan from a provider that permits data sharing, it’s akin to carrying pocket WiFi. You can connect your other devices and share the internet, which is incredibly convenient.
Best eSIM Providers in Asia
Here are the best 5 eSIM providers in Asia/Pacific region.
1. MTALK eSIM
MTALK eSIM offers an expansive range of eSIMs covering the Asia/Pacific region, including countries such as:
Cambodia, China, Hong Kong, Indonesia, Japan, Laos, Macao, Malaysia, Philippines, Singapore, South Korea, Taiwan, Thailand, and Vietnam.
This wide coverage surpasses many others that focus solely on Southeast Asia.
Pricing:
In my opinion, the 10GB plan is the best value, especially for trips lasting 3 months.
2. Airalo
Airalo is a renowned global eSIM card provider, offering data packages for nearly every corner of the world, typically starting at $4.5. This makes them a favorite among travelers seeking global connectivity.
For Asian countries, Airalo provides affordable data plans, spanning one to two weeks or a month. Monthly plans often offer multiple data allowances, enabling you to access cellular data for less than $10 in most countries. Please note that Airalo eSIM cards do not include a phone number or SMS options.
Airalo also offers a regional data plan for Southeast Asia, encompassing 13 countries.
Pricing for this plan includes:
- 1GB/7 days for $5
- 3GB/30 days for $13
- 5GB/30 days for $20
- 10GB/30 days for $37
Up to 100GB for 6 months at $185 (equivalent to $1.85 per GB), offering exceptional value. However, please be aware that this plan does not cover Central Asian countries, so if you plan to visit Bhutan or Kazakhstan, you’ll need separate eSIMs.
3. Holafly
Holafly is the preferred eSIM provider for travelers seeking unlimited data. They offer unlimited plans starting at $19 in major Asian countries like Malaysia, Indonesia, Vietnam, and Thailand, with options for 5, 10, 15, or 30 days.
Pricing:
- 5 days for $19
- 10 days for $34
- 15 days for $47
- 30 days for $64
4. Nomad
Nomad is another popular global eSIM provider offering budget-friendly and value data plans. Their prices are competitive with Airalo, and they provide excellent coverage and reliable internet connectivity. Nomad covers over 100 countries worldwide and offers multi-country data plans for five regions.
Nomad data plans are particularly affordable in Europe, Asia, and North America. However, keep in mind that packages for South American countries can be pricier. For example, $20 gets you 10GB of internet in Thailand but only 1GB in Honduras.
One notable feature of Nomad is the ability to easily purchase additional data if needed. Furthermore, when you buy a Nomad eSim, you have 30 days to activate it, automatically activating on the 30th day, eliminating the need to purchase the eSIM months in advance.
5. SimOptions
SimOptions offers eSIM cards for 33 countries in Asia and Southeast Asia, as well as distinct regional plans for each area. They often support eSIMs usable in multiple countries, clearly indicated on their website.
SimOptions stands out for offering their own budget-friendly eSim data plan, as well as plans from local providers in Asia. You can compare the various eSIM options on their website to determine the best fit for your needs. SimOptions provides data-only eSIMs with limited data, valid for up to one month.
Tips for using eSim in Asia
If your travels take you to China, be on the lookout for an eSim package that incorporates a VPN service at no extra cost. China often enforces regional restrictions on numerous international websites, necessitating the use of a VPN for access. Fortunately, many eSim providers offer bundled VPN services, making it a more cost-effective choice than purchasing a standalone VPN.
