Best eSIM providers and plans in Asia 2024

eSIMs have quickly become the perfect way to stay connected while traveling abroad. A flexible, convenient, and cost-effective way to receive mobile data and contact your friends, loved ones or colleagues during a trip - eSIMs will help you to stay on the grid even when you’re hopping through different Asia countries.

Whether it’s a short stay in Japan, or a long journey all across Southeast Asia, purchasing an eSIM will cater to your mobile data and mobility needs. This is the easiest way to not only escape costly roaming charges in Asia but also avoid having to worry about purchasing and exchanging physical SIM cards while you travel.

However, there are various Asia eSIM choices. Which providers are the best and offer the finest services for a reasonable price?

We did the work to select the top 5 eSIM cards in Asia for a worry-free trip. Keep on reading to find the perfect eSIM solution for your journey.

Best 5 eSIM providers for Asia - our shortlist

1. Saily – top overall eSIM for traveling to Asia
2. Airalo – best easy-to-use Asia eSIM
3. Nomad – top Asia eSIM with SMS option
4. Jetpac – affordable eSIM for Asia travelers
5. aloSIM – best Asia eSIM for easy activation

What to consider when choosing an Asia eSIM card for travel?

Choosing from numerous Asia eSIM cards may cause a headache if you’re not concentrating on the main criteria. Check out these key factors for picking the best option:

• Coverage. First, make sure that the eSIM provider covers all of your destinations in Asia. Research the eSIM and pick the ones that offer a wide network coverage not only in bustling cities of Asia but also in more rural towns if you plan on staying in remote areas. Keep an eye on the most popular network providers, such as, True in Thailand, NTT Docomo in Japan, CTM in China, and others.
• Data plans. Nobody wants to run out of data in the middle of their trip to Asia. Thus, keep in mind to carefully evaluate how much data you will need. To ensure a smooth travel experience, you should think about choosing a data plan with more mobile data.
• Cost. Always compare the eSIM providers and their pricings to find the most suitable option. Search for regional bundles that align with the countries you’re going to visit in Asia or, the opposite, don’t choose a regional plan if you’re visiting one or two countries. If you put in some work in research, it’s easy to find the best price-to-value option.
• Compatibility. Make sure to check if your smartphone is compatible with an eSIM of your choice. Nowadays, most of the newest phone models are compatible with an eSIM card.
• Activation process. It’s also important to look for an eSIM provider that offers a seamless activation process, saving you precious time.
• Validity period. Don’t forget to evaluate the length of your trip and choose an eSIM data plan that will work during your whole trip to Asia.

The best eSIMs for Asia travel – our detailed list

We did the heavy work and scrupulously researched the best Asia eSIM options. From coverage, ease of use, and plans, to pricing, as well as many more criteria - we checked each provider to make a list of top 5 eSIM cards for Asia. Check them out below.

1. Saily - best all-round Asia eSIM

Supports 5G networks:	Yes
Starting price:	$1.99
Countries and regions:	150+

Visit Saily

Developed by the creators of NordVPN, Saily is a top eSIM choice for your trip to Asia. Saily matches and even edges the highest eSIM standards in the market, offering convenient, flexible, and affordable eSIM plans all over Asia - from India to UAE, China to Japan.

Coverage. Saily guarantees quick and reliable access to 3G, 4G, and 5G networks in most of Asia’s countries. It also offers an Asia regional plan, ensuring smooth access to the internet no matter the size of the city.

Usage. Saily eSIM is very simple to use and activate. The latter can be done in minutes through the comfortable app. The minimalistic and user-friendly design guarantees an effortless experience even for fresh tech users.

Customer support. From a detailed FAQ section to 24/7 live chat, Saily’s professional customer support will guide you through any issues encountered on your Asia travels.

Pricing and plans. With plans ranging from 7 to 30 days, as well as different data amount choices scaling up to 20 GB, you’re sure to find a well-rounded choice with this eSIM. The prices vary based on the country you’re traveling to, with the cheapest options starting at $1.99 - one of the cheapest options on the market for your Asia travels.

2. Airalo - top eSIM for smooth use in Asia

Supports 5G networks:	Yes
Starting price:	$4.50
Countries and regions:	200+ countries, regional, and global plans

Visit Airalo

Airalo is a reliable and easy-to-use eSIM for your travels in Asia. With many price-to-value plans in different countries, regional, and global options, this is one of the top choices for your holiday or work-related travel to Asia.

Coverage. Data plans are available in more than 200+ countries, plus regional and global choices are offered by Airalo, as well as access to 5G, 4G, 3G, and LTE networks. With such a wide range of options, make sure to plan ahead and check out their regional Asia plan, which covers 18 Asia countries, such as Indonesia, Japan, South Korea, and other most popular travel destinations. If you have connecting flights outside of Asia, you might even think about the global plan.

Usage. A user-friendly app with an accessible design and other features will ensure a rapid activation of the Airalo eSIM, as well as a smooth user experience.

Customer support. Airalo also offers rapid and reliable customer support 24/7. From chat to help center, email to FAQ - you’ll be able to look for help through various channels.

Pricing and plans. Plans for a single country in Asia start at $4.50 (1GB for 7 days). Like everywhere, the pricing and the data plans differ based on the country. The regional card for Asia (18 countries) begins at $5.00 if you get an eSIM for 7 days with 1 GB, and goes all the way up to 100 GB for 180 days. The global plan pricing starts at $9.00 (1GB for 7 days).

3. Nomad - reliable Asia eSIM + SMS option

Supports 5G networks:	Yes
Starting price:	$4.00
Countries and regions:	165+ countries, regional plans

Visit Nomad

Competitive pricing, hassle-free user experience, and an SMS feature - Nomad is one of the best choices for your short or long trip to Asia.

Coverage. Supporting 5G, 4G, 3G, and LTE networks, as well as covering more than 165 countries, including most of Asia, Nomad will cover your traveling needs. Their APAC (Asia + Pacific) plan includes up to 21 countries, with most of them being in Asia, this could be the best option for the most adventurous travelers. Don’t forget to check out their smaller regional plans, such as Southeast Asia or bundles of specific Asia countries.

Usage. Setting up your Nomad eSIM will be as easy as ABC - you won’t break a sweat while using the app because of the straightforward design and clear instructions.

Customer support. While Nomad doesn’t offer live 24/7 customer support, you can reach out for help with the app, email, or look for answers in their help center.

Pricing and plans. A wide selection of plans are available for Nomad eSIM users. For 1 GB for 7 days, prices start at $4.00, even though you can find plans with even shorter duration, as well as lower prices. Regional plans are more expensive, with the main one - APAC - costing $7.00 (1 GB for 7 days).

4. Jetpac - budget eSIM for Asia travelers

Supports 5G networks:	No
Starting price:	$1.00 (1GB for 4 days)
Countries and regions:	100+ countries, regional plans

Visit Jetpac

Jetpac is a comfortable eSIM that could be the best option for travelers on a tight budget. With prices starting at $1.00, you are bound to save money if you’re ready to sacrifice some quality.

Coverage. Jetpac is flexible enough to keep your internet connection covered all over Asia - from rural towns to large cities. However keep in mind that this eSIM will only connect to 3G and 4G networks, and it does have the least total countries available from all the providers on this list (100+).

Usage. Similar to other eSIM cards on this list, Jetpac offers a straightforward and quick activation process. You’ll find it easy to navigate in the app because of its simple, clear, and attractive design.

Customer support. From troubleshooting guides, and an extensive FAQ section, to a dedicated, 24/7 available customer support team that can be reached by email - there are many ways to find the help you need.

Pricing and plans. Jetpac’s plans for Asia start at just $1.00 for 1 GB for 4 days - it is one of the cheapest eSIMs on the market. There are two regional Asia plans - Southeast and APAC - as well as a global plan for the ones that will be traveling all over the continent. Of course, prices vary based on the duration, the amount of mobile data, and more.

5. aloSIM - top Asia eSIM for simple activation

Supports 5G networks:	Yes
Starting price:	$4.50
Countries and regions:	170+ countries, regional plans

Visit aloSIM

aloSIM is a comfortable and hassle-free eSIM that holds up to the highest standards. It’s very easy to use and understand and will surely provide you with the mobile data needed for your trip to Asia.

Coverage. With both local and regional plans, aloSIM is more than enough to satisfy your mobile data needs in Asia. Whether it’s China or Japan, Indonesia or Thailand, their 5G, 4G, and LTE networks should keep you covered.

Usage. Like other eSIM cards we’ve covered, aloSIM stays on track with a minimalistic, simple design that makes it easy to use and activate.

Customer support. An extensive FAQ, a 24/7 live chat or help through email - aloSIM has it all to provide rapid responses to solve your issues.

Pricing and plans. Starting at $4.50 (1GB for 7 days), aloSIM is not the cheapest eSIM provider but does hold its ground compared to others. As with other providers, you can choose from various plans, differing in duration and the amount of data. Both the 5-pack of the most popular Asia destinations and the wider regional plan that covers 13 countries cost $5.00 (1 GB for 7 days) and offer a great deal for those who will be exploring more than one country.

Comparison of the best eSIM providers for Asia

How do the top 5 eSIM providers in Asia look compared to each other? Let’s take a look at their different features and what they offer in two of the most popular travel destinations, Thailand and Japan, as well as their regional plans. You’ll only find the vital information here:

Thailand plans

Brand	Plan duration	Data sharing	Unlimited data	Calls	GB per plan	Support	Price
Saily	7 and 30 days	No	No	No	1GB, 3GB, 5GB, 10GB, 20GB	In English, via live chat, email	$2.99 – $17.99
Airalo	10 days and 15 days	Yes	Yes	Yes	50GB, Unlimited	In English, via bot, email	$9.90 – $19.95
Nomad	7 days, 10 days, 30 days, 45 days	Yes	No	No	1GB, 3GB, 5GB, 10GB, 15GB, 20GB, 30GB, 40GB, 50GB	In English, via app, email	$4 – $125
Jetpac	4 days, 7 days, 10 days, 30 days	No	No	No	1GB, 3GB, 5GB, 10GB, 15GB, 20GB, 30GB, 40GB, 50GB	In English, via email	$1 – $25
Alosim	7 days, 15 days, and 30 days	Yes	No	Yes (via sister app Hushed)	1GB, 2GB, 3GB, 5GB, 10GB, 20GB	In English, via live chat, email	$5 – $45

Japan plans

Brand	Plan duration	Data sharing	Unlimited data	Calls	GB per plan	Support	Price
Saily	7 and 30 days	No	No	No	1GB, 3GB, 5GB, 10GB, 20GB	In English, via live chat, email	$3.99 – $22.99
Airalo	7 days, 15 days, and 30 days	Yes	Yes	Yes	1GB, 2GB, 3GB, 5GB, 10GB, 20GB	In English, via bot, email	$4.50 – $26
Nomad	1 – 7 days	Yes	No	No	500MB, 1GB, 2GB, 3GB	In English, via app, email	$2,5 – $63
Jetpac	4 days, 7 days, 10 days, 30 days	No	No	No	1GB, 3GB, 5GB, 10GB, 15GB, 20GB, 30GB, 40GB, 50GB	In English, via email	$1 – $25
Alosim	7 days, 15 days, and 30 days	Yes	No	Yes (via sister app Hushed)	1GB, 2GB, 3GB, 5GB, 10GB, 20GB	In English, via live chat, email	$4.50 – $26

Regional Asia plans

Brand	Countries	Plan duration	Data sharing	Unlimited data	Calls	GB per plan	Support	Price
Saily	19	7 days, 30 days, 90 days, 180 days	Yes	Yes	No	1GB, 3GB, 5GB, 10GB, 50GB, 100GB	In English, via app, email	$5 – $180
Airalo	18	7 days, 30 days, 90 days, 180 days	Yes	Yes	Yes	1GB, 2GB, 3GB, 5GB, 10GB, 20GB	In English, via bot, email	$5 – $185
Nomad	20	7 days, 30 days, 45 days, 60 days	Yes	No	No	1GB, 3GB, 5GB, 10GB, 20GB, 30GB	In English, via app, email	$5 – $65
Jetpac	15	4 days, 7 days, 30 days	No	No	No	1GB, 3GB, 5GB, 10GB, 15GB, 20GB, 30GB, 40GB	In English, via email	$1 – $60
Alosim	13	7 days, 15 days, 30 days, 90 days, 180 days	Yes	No	Yes (via sister app Hushed)	1GB, 2GB, 3GB, 5GB, 10GB, 50GB, 100GB	In English, via live chat, email	$5 – $185

How we tested and ranked these eSIMs for Asia?

Carefully assessing different factors and doing a lot of research before making the decision - we put in heaps of effort to evaluate every eSIM provider, before finalizing every list.

This one was not an exclusion, with us concentrating on such eSIM aspects as coverage, pricing, compatibility, network connection, and more.

• Coverage. It was important for us to take a thorough look at every provider's coverage. In how many countries of Asia do they offer mobile data plans? Are they only local, do they have regional, or even global plans? Do the plans cover different kinds of durations, what is the variety of data amounts you can choose from? All these questions were answered before placing an eSIM provider in a specific spot.
• Network connection. Nobody wants to lose their network connection while traveling in Asia. Therefore, we found it vital to check if the eSIM provider supports 4G and 5G networks in Asia, or is it, for example, only 3G and LTE? Also, is the connection to the network seamless not only in large cities but also in more remote areas, such as smaller towns and even villages? An eSIM’s working with the best network providers in Asia played a key part in our decision to rank it higher or lower.
• Compatibility. It would cause a huge headache to find out your smartphone is not compatible with a specific eSIM. Thus, we checked if all of the providers on the 5 best Asia eSIM list are compatible with both iOS, and Android, and as many different phone models. It was also important to see whether the eSIM can support multiple devices, that is, are you allowed to activate a mobile hotspot? It’s a neat extra benefit that comes in handy while traveling with your friends or family.
• Price. Another key aspect while evaluating eSIM cards was their price-to-value ratio. No one wishes to overpay for a product, so we looked carefully to make sure the eSIMs are as affordable as possible and would make it worthwhile using them.

Benefits of using travel eSIM for Southeast Asia travel

Using an eSIM in Asia has several benefits that can ensure your trip is hassle-free. The main advantages are listed here below:

• Convenience. It’s no secret that switching physical eSIMs while you travel can cause problems, such as losing your tiny card while exchanging them, or finding a physical spot to purchase them. With eSIMs, you don’t have to worry about any of this. Simply purchase and configure one before you arrive in Asia, and activate it once you’ve landed. This helps you save time, and avoid any miscommunication with local vendors.
• Flexibility. eSIMs have almost become the synonym for flexibility, offering the ability to adapt under different circumstances. Allowing to easily switch between different providers, and choose from various data plans and durations, the versatility of eSIMs while traveling in Asia is unmatched.
• Security. Not only do all trustworthy eSIMs provide private and secure mobile data, equal to that of a cellular network but also they reduce the risk of losing your physical eSIM card or having it stolen once you’re in Asia.
• eSIM pricing vs Roaming pricing. One of the main benefits of using an eSIM is getting rid of the bothersome roaming fees. Forget what it’s like to worry about racking up giant roaming bills. With an eSIM, your trip to Asia will become more economical.

How to set up Asia eSIM

Enormous flexibility, the ability to pick the most fitting provider, and not having to worry about roaming fees or losing your physical SIM card – eSIMs are making life easy for travelers.

You can easily purchase an Asia eSIM for your trip by choosing one of many eSIM providers, installing their app on your smartphone, deciding on a data plan, local or regional, and paying for it.

Once you’ve done that, follow the instructions of the provider to set up your eSIM in minutes. If you have any trouble, simply contact their customer support. Their team should help you rapidly.

Things to know about using an eSIM card for Asia

What are some helpful tips you should know while using an eSIM in Asia?

Check compatibility. Start by making sure your phone supports an eSIM. Every newer model with an iOS or Android should be compatible with an eSIM.

Save mobile data. Even if you have purchased a plan with heaps of mobile data, remember to cherish it. Turn on your Airplane mode so that your apps don’t use data in the background, or download offline maps at home - such and similar actions will help your data last longer.

Use Wi-Fi. Having mobile data might tempt you to use it all the time, but don’t forget to postpone larger downloads, social media time, or streaming for when you have a Wi-FI connection available.

Final thoughts on eSIMs for Asia

eSIMs provide an easy way out of unwanted travel hassle, and roaming fees, ensuring you stay connected during your trip to Asia. Price-to-value offers, enormous flexibility, and the ability to forget the tiresome swapping of physical SIM cards are just the tip of the iceberg when talking about the benefits of eSIMs.

At first glance, choosing an eSIM from many different providers for your trip to Asia might look like a chore. But just remember to keep an eye on the most important aspects and this decision will be a piece of cake.

Make sure to check if the eSIM will cover all of your travel destinations, as well as the strength of the network connection. Don’t forget to compare different plans, focusing on price, duration, and the amount of mobile data. Then pick the one that suits your needs best.

If you still have trouble deciding, choose one of the 5 best Asia eSIMs we’ve looked at in this review - Saily, Airalo, Nomad, Jetpac, and aloSIM.

---

More about eSIM you may like:

---

FAQ