As someone who lives overseas and travels frequently, having an instantly available data connection for my devices makes life much easier. Whether I’m in an unfamiliar destination, visiting friends and family, or on a layover somewhere, Airalo’s eSIM provides the perfect solution.
How Does Airalo Work?
Airalo is a global mobile network provider that uses eSIM (embedded SIM) technology, enabling you to access mobile data in over 200 countries without needing a physical SIM card.
To get started with Airalo, you must first ensure that your smartphone is eSIM-compatible (a quick search should confirm this). Once confirmed, simply download the Airalo app from the App Store or Google Play, browse the available data plans for the country or region you’re visiting, and purchase one directly through the app.
After paying for a plan, you must activate it on your device, and you’re good to go. Airalo offers data packages for various destinations, including regional and global plans that cover multiple countries. These plans range in data size, duration, and pricing, so you’ll find one that best suits your needs. For my recent trip to the UK, I chose a 20GB, 30-day plan, which cost $36.
The Benefits of Using Airalo While Traveling
Whether you are a frequent traveler or planning a yearly vacation, Airalo’s convenience and impressive functionality should appeal to you. Here are some of my favorite features.
Connectivity and Variety of Plans
Airalo’s extensive options and global coverage are its biggest benefits. For example, I used the single Asialink regional eSIM while traveling in Cambodia, Thailand, Laos, and Vietnam, and I experienced few connectivity issues. As Airalo is a Singaporean company, I expected it to work well in Asia, but was nonetheless amazed.
Instant Activation
After purchasing a plan on Airalo, activation typically takes just a few minutes. I often use free airport Wi-Fi to connect the app, and by the time my luggage arrives at the carousel, I’ll already be connected and ready to roll.
No Need for Local SIM Cards
One of the most significant advantages of Airalo is that you can avoid buying a local SIM card. Doing that often means dealing with language barriers, long lines, or searching for a local store. I’m often anxious to get to my destination, and I love being connected immediately.
No SIM Swapping
One of my pet peeves is having to swap SIM cards between countries. This is a fiddly process, and I worry that a card might get lost in transit. Using an eSIM, I can maintain my primary number and access local data simultaneously, so I’m always connected without juggling physical SIM cards.
24/7 Customer Support
Airalo offers round-the-clock customer support, which is crucial when facing technical issues in various time zones. I’ve never had to use it, but it’s encouraging to know that Airalo’s support team is available should I need it.
Possible Drawbacks to Choosing Airalo
While Airalo has undoubtedly benefitted my travels on many levels, it does come with a few limitations. Here’s where I’ve found the service falls short.
Limited to Mobile Data
Airalo primarily offers data plans, and while I usually use data for calling and messaging via apps like WhatsApp, the service doesn’t support traditional voice calls or SMS. If you need to make regular phone calls or receive text messages abroad, you can buy a Global eSIM from Airalo, although these are significantly more expensive.
Cost-Effectiveness
While I would argue it’s well worth paying for the added convenience, Airalo’s pricing is often considerably higher than that of local data providers. That said, the service is significantly cheaper than the international roaming rates offered by my home service provider.
Sporadic Connectivity
Airalo is a global service that relies on the efficacy of local networks in specific regions. While I have never experienced a terrible connection beyond what I would expect in sparsely populated areas, some folks have reported issues. While this is hardly Airalo’s fault, service quality may be a lottery depending on the country or territory you visit.
My Experience Using Airalo
The first time I used Airolo while visiting Vietnam, I didn’t know what to expect, so I opted for the cheapest plan. I was pleasantly surprised when it functioned well, even near the Chinese border in the remote highlands. I found the regional plans to be beneficial as I continued my Asian tour, using one eSIM for multiple countries, which saved both time and money.
As I write, I am using Airolo on my trip to the UK, which has so far included trips to London, the Southwest, and an all-too-brief long weekend in Scotland. Coverage has been excellent throughout, and service is via Uki Mobile, which uses the four major networks in the UK to cover England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland. After the trip, switching back to my regular service provider is quick and easy.
It’s not hyperbole to suggest that the Airalo eSIM has revolutionized my travels. It has not only provided a solution to connectivity abroad, but also has saved me considerable time, expense, and effort with a straightforward interface that makes activation easy. Despite a few minor drawbacks, the overall value and ease of use make Airalo an indispensable tool for modern travelers.
