Best eSIM Providers for Belize in 2024
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Learn moreAs a Cybernews travel expert, I've geared up with our research team to investigate the best eSIM options for travelers to Belize. Recently, eSIM tech has gained popularity in beautiful destinations like Belize because the technology is such a breath of fresh air for travelers.
An eSIM is an embedded SIM permanently installed in a modern smartphone’s hardware. This technology has existed since roughly 2010, with wider consumer adoption beginning in 2016 and 2017.
This relatively new technology takes the circuitry of a plastic SIM card and embeds it into your smartphone's internal chip, making it reprogrammable.
Most major smartphones made post-2016 (depending on region) allow you to activate an eSIM plan. In fact, iPhones sold in the U.S. no longer have physical SIM card slots.
With an eSIM, you no longer need to fiddle with physical SIM cards, and switching between carriers and plans is quick and hassle-free. You can even have multiple eSIM phone numbers if you wish. This tech is especially useful for frequent travelers.
Now, I'll discuss and review the top eSIM providers specifically for Belize. We've put a ton of effort into research and critical thinking to give you all you need to know to find the right plan for your upcoming trip!
Top 5 eSIMs For Belize – shortlist
- Saily – Best overall eSIM for the price
- Airalo – Budget-friendly eSIM provider
- aloSIM – Reliable eSIM provider
- Ubigi – Best for wide network coverage
- Yesim – Best for global data
What to consider before buying an eSIM for Belize
I've narrowed down some quick tips to help you out when buying an eSIM for Belize:
- Data allowance. Take this into account so that the different plans' data caps correspond to your needs. Think about whether you use data mostly for simple tasks — just checking emails and browsing — or if you are into streaming videos and using heavy apps.
- Coverage. Check the provider's network coverage, especially if you plan to visit Belize's rural or less populated areas. You definitely wouldn’t want to find yourself in a place with no signal at all. Good coverage would keep you connected wherever you go.
- Contract Terms. These vary from plan to plan. Some have no long-term commitments, which is perfect if you're visiting for a short period or looking to use the service for an unknown amount of time. Others require a contract, which could work well if you stay longer or want ongoing service.
- Budget. Remember to compare plan prices, including all monthly fees and those extra charges that might slip past you. Setting a budget is smart so that you can pick a plan that your wallet can absorb without you having to cut corners on the features you need.
- Network speed. Compare speeds across eSIM providers, whether it be 4G or 5G. Faster speeds make huge differences, especially when using apps that suck up loads of data or if you want things to load fast.
The best eSIMs for Belize travel – my detailed list
I've put substantial effort into deconstructing each of these eSIMs for Belize for you.
1. Saily – ideal for first-time users with user-friendly features
Supported Networks: | 3G, 4G, LTE, 5G |
Country coverage: | 150+ countries |
Starting price: | $8.99 for 1 GB |
With its user-friendly approach, I found that Saily is a no-brainer when visiting Belize.
Plan Options: Saily has one plan available for Belize. It's a data-only plan with no SMS or calls. If you consume all of the data within seven days, you can top-up via the Saily app.
Belize plans pricing: $8.99 for 1 GB for seven days.
Network coverage: Saily covers 150+ countries with speeds ranging from 3G to 5G and says you will be disconnected unless a local network error occurs.
Activation process: Activating Saily is easy. Download the app and activate your plan before your trip. Saily doesn't usually require an eKYC check (electronic Know Your Customer identity verification).
Customer support: You get 24/7 customer support via live chat and email.
Advanced features: Saily was developed by the team behind NordVPN, a well-known name in digital security.
For even more details on Saily’s global offering, visit our in-depth Saily review article.
2. Airalo – a popular choice for globetrotters
Supported Networks: | 3G, 4G, LTE, 5G |
Country coverage: | 200+ countries |
Starting price: | $9.50 for 1 GB |
I liked Airalo's perks and other distinguishing features.
Plan options: One plan available for Belize. No SMS or calls with this plan, just data. Top-up options are available.
Belize plans pricing: Airalo offers just the $9.50 plan for 1 GB for 7 days. No other alternative.
Network coverage: Airalo spans 200+ countries with speeds between 3G to 5G. Airalo will connect to the local BTL network in Belize at 4G speeds.
Activation process: Download the app, choose your package, install your eSIM via the QR code on the website, and activate your eSIM. Or, use the app. Airalo does require an eKYC check for some of its eSIMs.
Customer support: Customers like Airalo and its 24/7 support, which is available across all time zones.
Advanced features: Airalo includes a program that rewards you for every eSIM purchase. The highest level offers a 10% reward for every purchase.
3. aloSIM – smart eSIM solution for the budget-conscious
Supported Networks: | 3G, 4G, LTE, 5G |
Country coverage: | 175+ countries |
Starting price: | $9.50 for 1 GB |
I liked that aloSIM has a rewards program and that this provider allows calling and texting. However, I was disappointed by some other factors. Read on!
Plan options: aloSIM offers just one plan for Belize at $9.50 for 1 GB for seven days. No direct calls or SMS, but each plan comes with a free international phone number via the "Hushed" app, allowing you to receive calls and SMS.
Belize plans pricing: aloSIM offers 1 GB of data to Belize travelers for 7 days at $9.50. This is a basic plan designed for short-term use by frugal travelers.
Network coverage: aloSIM covers 170+ countries generally preferring high-speed networks like 5G and LTE. But, in Belize, you will get 3G speeds via DigiCell. This is enough for general browsing, emailing, and limited social media activities.
Activation process: Like the others, activation is by app or QR code via email. No physical SIM card or identity verification is required.
Customer support: 24/7 customer support is available via live chat and email, plus a comprehensive knowledge base on the aloSIM website.
Advanced features: This is where aloSIM shines, in my opinion. You get the "Hushed" app and the aloCASH Rewards Program, where you earn credits with each purchase.
4. Ubigi – best eSIM for flexibility
Supported Networks: | 3G, 4G, LTE, 5G |
Country coverage: | 190+ countries |
Starting price: | $14 for 1 GB |
I found that Ubigi has positive comments from customers across the board.
Plan options: Ubigi has "BEST LATAM" and "AMERICAS" data-only plans that encompass Belize.
Belize plans pricing: It's $14 for 1 GB for 30 days or 3 GB for 30 days at $38.
Network coverage: Ubigi spans 190+ countries with speeds between 3G to 5G. In Belize, you get up to 4G via DigiCell.
Activation process: After purchase, you'll get a QR code in an email. Scan it before your trip and install it to activate your data plan. You can also download the app to top up or check your data usage. Ubigi does not usually require an eKYC check.
Customer support: Available via email and the website knowledge base. The company doesn't indicate when they will get back to you if you contact them via the website.
Advanced features: Hotspot (data sharing) functionality and eSIMs for smart cars are Ubigi's interesting advanced features.
If you’re looking for even more information on Ubigi, check out our full Ubigi review.
5. Yesim – best for seamless connections in Belize
Supported Networks: | 3G, 4G, LTE, 5G |
Country coverage: | 200+ countries |
Starting price: | $40.70 for 3 GB |
Yesim seems like a premium option with these prices, but is it worth it?
Plan options: There are a couple of data-only options for Belize travelers. These are prepaid and do not include calls or SMS.
Belize plans pricing: Belize travelers can expect to pay $40.70 for 3 GB, $67.10 for 5 GB, and $82.50 for 10 GB.
Network coverage: Yesim spans about 135 countries with speeds between 3G to 5G. In Belize, you will connect to the DigiCell network.
Activation process: With Yesim, you'll also receive a QR code via email, or you can go through the app. The process doesn't usually require any identity verification.
Customer support: There's customer support via email and live chat, though live chat isn't available 24/7.
Advanced features: Yesim offers quite a few advanced features—namely, support for virtual phone numbers, which allow you to receive calls and SMS messages. Also, there's a "Ycoins" reward program where you earn credits for purchases and referrals, redeemable for discounts in the future.
Comparison of the best eSIM providers for Belize
Brand | Plan duration | Data sharing | Unlimited data | Calls | GB per plan | Support | Price |
Saily | 7 days | Yes | No | No | 1 GB | 24/7 chat/email | $8.99 (1 GB) |
Airalo | 7 days | Yes | No | No | 1 GB | 24/7 chat/email | $9.50 (1 GB) |
aloSIM | 7 days | Yes | No | Via separate app | 1 GB | 24/7 chat/email | $9.50 (1 GB) |
Ubigi | 30 days | Yes | No | No | 1 GB, 3 GB | $14 (1 GB), $38 (3 GB) | |
Yesim | 7, 15, 30 days | Yes | No | Via separate app | 3 GB, 5 GB, 10 GB | Email/live chat | $40.70 (3 GB) – $82.50 (10 GB) |
How I tested and ranked these eSIMs for Belize
Together with our researchers, I prepared a detailed evaluation of the questions we asked ourselves to test and rank these eSIM providers for Belize.
Next, you'll see how I curated these eSIM selections and why I chose these 5 in particular.
Here's a brief overview table that deconstructs our selection criteria to help you understand everything we considered.
Coverage | Do the providers support regional and local plans? What about global plans? |
Network connection | Does the provider support high-speed 4G and 5G connections? |
Compatibility | Does the eSIM work with iOS and Android and support multiple devices? |
Price | Is the eSIM affordable for the average traveler? |
Additional features | Does the eSIM come with interesting perks and features? |
Customer support | Is the eSIM provider's customer support satisfactory? Is it available 24/7 and via multiple channels? |
Brand reputation | Is the eSIM brand well-known and appreciated by customers? |
Coverage. We looked at whether providers have plans that cover both regional and local areas in Belize. This is critical for ensuring connectivity in less populated or rural areas where you may not get network coverage.
Network connection. We assessed if the eSIMs support 4G and 5G networks and tested the speed and reliability of the connections. A fast and smooth network is paramount for a smooth and reliable online experience.
Compatibility. An eSIM absolutely needs to be compatible with the twin major smartphone platforms, iOS and Android. We also checked if the eSIMs support multiple devices, allowing travelers to use them on a range of smartphones, tablets, and other gadgets.
Price. Affordability is a key consideration. We compared the prices of different plans, including any additional costs or hidden fees. The eSIM needs to offer value without straining your budget.
Additional features. Beyond basic connectivity and compatibility, we also looked for extra features such as data-sharing capabilities, phone numbers, and factors like rewards programs. These features add a lot of value to the eSIM experience.
Customer support. Reliable customer support is critical, especially when you're wandering around unknown territories.
We looked at customer support across different providers and ensured that support exists and is helpful when you need it.
Reputation. We picked out established and legitimate providers and avoided those that have just started out (there are many) or those that don't have an online presence.
How to Use an eSIM in Belize
You can use an eSIM in Belize if you have a modern iPhone or Android device. The process is rather simple, and practically anyone can set up an eSIM for Belize by following these simple instructions.
Device compatibility
First, check your eSIM compatibility. Your device must support eSIM tech in order to continue.
Most current smartphones made after approximately 2016 are compatible, like Apple, Samsung, and Google phones. This can also depend on regional manufacturing differences between models.
On some networks, it is possible to even convert a SIM to an eSIM.
Activation process
Buy a plan from an eSIM provider that covers Belize. When you buy one, they will give you a QR code. Alternatively, you can download the app. Scan the code using your phone’s camera and follow the instructions.
Switching profiles
If you have more than one eSIM profile, switching between them is simple. You just need to go to your device's settings and select the preferred eSIM profile from the cellular or mobile data section.
For more detailed steps on installation and activation, you can also check out our guides on iPhone eSIM setup and Samsung eSIM setup.
Where to get an eSIM for Belize
You can get an eSIM for Belize in several convenient ways:
- Online: The simplest and most convenient route. Purchase eSIM plans straight from the providers' websites. You can instantly activate your account with most providers by reacting to a QR code via email that you can scan to set up your eSIM immediately. Most of the time, you can also do it through providers' apps.
- Retail stores: Some mobile network operators have stores or authorized resellers where you can go personally (physically) to buy an eSIM for activation. This will be most helpful if you want one-on-one human assistance and activation on the spot.
- Travel agencies and airports: Some tourist travel agencies, train stations, and airport kiosks offer eSIM packages. These are quite convenient for visitors, as one gets immediate access upon arrival in Belize, with no delay in getting connected.
My final verdict on Belize eSIMs
An eSIM in Belize is highly beneficial for residents and even tourists, offering easy operation and high flexibility.
The Cybernews research team and I found that eSIMs improve on physical SIMs because they are so convenient when switching carriers and plans without the hassle of using a plastic, physical SIM card.
This technology best fits residents juggling multiple phone lines around, looking for cost-effective plans, and tourists who intend to get an instant, budget-friendly connection upon arrival to Belize.
I recommend you choose the eSIM plan that best suits your data needs, making sure it has the proper coverage and fits your budget.
Plans will differ on the amount of data, coverage, or provider.
I suggest you refer back to this guide periodically to check out the providers' available options as they change.
Enjoy the ease and flexibility that eSIM technology brings to secure a stress-free mobile experience in Belize.
More eSIM guides from Cybernews:
How to know if your phone is compatible with eSIM
Best eSIM providers and plans for Spain in 2024
Best eSIM providers and plans in South Korea 2024
Best eSIM providers in Asia: find the best eSIM for Asia travels
FAQ
Does Belize Support eSIM?
Yes. Most major mobile network providers offer eSIM services to residents and tourists in Belize to help them easily switch carriers and plans without a physical SIM card.
This works on most newer smartphones from Apple, Samsung, Google, and others.
Which is the best eSIM provider in Belize?
My top pick was Saily for its simplicity and fair pricing.
However, your individual needs may differ. Most eSIM providers will get the job done, but if you want perks like a phone number, go with Yesim or aloSIM.
Interested in international eSIMs not mentioned in this review? Check out Holafly, Nomad, and Orange.
Do Belize eSIMs include a local phone number?
Most eSIM plans are data-only and do not include a local phone number. They typically offer roaming internet data only. This is the case for most regions.
However, in this case, I found two providers – Yesim and aloSIM – offering some qualified phone number functionality for calling or texting.
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