Best eSIMs for the UK in 2026
Our in-house expert researchers and journalists conduct independent, unbiased testing of eSIM services, assessing their real-life effectiveness and usability.
By staying current with industry developments and openly sharing our transparent testing methodologies, we ensure readers receive accurate, up-to-date insights so they can make informed choices about eSIM solutions.
Learn more
When traveling in the UK, you no longer have to look for kiosks or other places to buy local SIM cards. You can get an instant connection upon your arrival with an eSIM. However, there are so many eSIMs to choose from that it might get overwhelming.
To help you pick the most suitable eSIM for your UK trip, I tested the most popular providers. I evaluated their performance on the busy streets of London, driving alongside the Welsh coast, and even in the remote trails in the Highlands.
If you want to have access to maps and messages while you’re travelling across the UK and forget about high fees and unstable internet connection, keep reading. In this article, I share the 8 best eSIMs for the UK in 2026 based on data plans, pricing, and reliability.
Top 5 eSIMs for the UK travel – my recommendation
- Saily – best overall eSIM for the UK in 2026
- Airalo – best eSIM for traveling across the UK
- Jetpac – best budget eSIM for UK trips
- aloSIM – best UK eSIM for instant, easy setup
- Nomad – best UK eSIM for seamless connectivity
Our team of researchers thoroughly tests eSIM services using a clear and consistent process. We combine first-hand experience with expert analysis to evaluate features, performance, coverage, and pricing - so you can make confident decisions before your trip. Learn how we test eSIMs.
Things to consider before choosing an eSIM for traveling in the United Kingdom
Here are a few things to consider when choosing an eSIM for traveling in the United Kingdom:
- Destination coverage. Check if the eSIM service has coverage across the UK or only parts of the country. If you’re traveling across the region, confirm that the eSIM has coverage in neighboring European countries.
- Communication needs. Decide if you require only data or want to make calls and send messages with your eSIM. Some eSIM providers offer phone numbers for calls and SMS, while others may only allow you to receive calls and texts.
- Data plans. Consider the amount of data you'll need during your trip and decide if you’d like a fixed plan or a pay-as-you-go package. If you’re getting a fixed plan, ensure you can top up your data if necessary.
- Price. Compare pricing between providers to find a plan that fits your budget. Remember that the cheapest option isn’t always the best – look for a balance between cost, coverage, and reliability. Some eSIMs offer regional bundles that include the UK and nearby countries, which can be more cost-effective if you travel beyond the UK.
- Validity period. Check the eSIM’s validity period. This indicates how many days you can use it once it is activated. Ensure the validity period aligns with the duration of your trip.
- Tethering support. Check if the eSIM provider allows tethering. This feature allows you to share your device's data connection as a mobile hotspot, which can be beneficial for connecting multiple devices during your travels.
Best eSIMs for the UK in 2026 – my detailed list
I’ve done the work to find the best eSIMs for UK travel so you don’t have to. After testing the top providers, I narrowed it down to the ones that actually deliver reliable coverage across the United Kingdom, offer flexible data plans, fair pricing, and great overall value.
1. Saily – best all-around eSIM for the UK in 2026
| Rating: | |
| Countries and regions: | Over 200 destinations |
| Phone calls/SMS: | No |
| Customer support: | 24/7 live chat, help center, email, and FAQ |
| Starting price: | $4.27 (7 days, 1GB) |
Saily makes staying connected while traveling easy, offering quick eSIM setup and activation. Backed by Nord Security, it also includes built-in features like virtual location, ad blocker, and web protection, keeping your browsing private and safe on the go.
Data plans and pricing. Saily covers the UK for any type of traveler with three simple plan options: local, regional, and global. Local UK plans start small with 1GB and go up to 20GB for 30 days, plus there’s an unlimited option that runs from 10 to 30 days.
If you’re traveling further, Europe-wide plans last up to 90 days, while global plans stretch as far as 365 days and include up to 100GB of data. For frequent travelers who value security, there’s also the Ultra Plan at $59.99/month, which adds unlimited data and the whole Nord Security suite.
I compiled a list of Saily’s UK plans and their prices in the table below.
| Data plan | Price |
| 1GB for 7 days | $4.27 |
| 3GB for 30 days | $8.54 |
| 5GB for 30 days | $12.34 |
| 10GB for 30 days | $18.99 |
| 20GB for 30 days | $30.39 |
| Unlimited GB for 15 days | $46.54 |
Coverage. In the UK, Saily doesn’t name its network partners, but it promises reliable 3G/4G/LTE/5G coverage on top providers. During my trip, I was connected to 5G most of the time and even in more remote areas it maintained a 4G speeds. The eSIM works with any eSIM-compatible smartphone, supports unrestricted hotspot sharing, and includes unique security tools like an ad blocker, web protection, and a virtual location feature, which, for me, was an advantage when connected to public Wi-Fi. The only drawback is that the Unlimited plan is throttled after 5GB per day, dropping to 1Mbps speeds.
My experience with Saily. Activating my eSIM before the trip was super easy. I just downloaded the app, signed up with my Apple ID, picked the UK as my destination and chose a data plan. I then completed the purchase and installed the eSIM right from the app.
After that, I went into my phone’s settings, enabled the Saily eSIM, and switched on data roaming. As soon as I landed in the UK, it activated automatically, and I was online in no time.
However, it's worth noting that the eSIM's validity period begins upon activation, so it's best to activate it once you reach your destination.
Customer support. Saily’s 24/7 live chat support was a pleasant surprise. When I tested it, an agent replied within minutes with quick, personal answers that didn’t feel copy-pasted (apart from the standard greeting and farewell). The speed and responsiveness were genuinely reassuring, especially when you’re in a new place and might need help fast.
2. Airalo – top UK eSIM for traveling throughout the country
| Rating: | |
| Countries and regions: | Over 200 destinations |
| Phone calls/SMS: | Yes, on Uki Mobile+ plans |
| Customer support: | 24/7/365 live chat, email, social media, help center, and FAQ |
| Starting price: | $4.00 (3 days, 1GB) |
Airalo has eSIM plans for every traveler, whether you’re visiting the UK for a few days or you’re on a month-long trip across Europe. This eSIM maintained a reliable network coverage in the UK throughout the duration of my trip and it offers competitive prices.
Data plans and pricing. Airalo offers local, regional, and global eSIM plans for the UK. There is also a European regional plan, Eurolink, which covers 42 countries, including the United Kingdom. It’s perfect for travelers visiting multiple destinations in Europe. Airalo supports calling and texting on its Uki Mobile+ plans.
Local UK plans run 7-30 days with up to 50GB of data, and the Mobile+ option adds calls and texts. In Europe, Eurolink lasts up to 180 days, starting at $5.00 for 1GB. For global travel, Discover covers 137 countries for up to a year, with plans from $9.00 for 1GB.
| Data plan | Price |
| 1GB for 7 days | $4.50 |
| 3GB for 30 days | $9.00 |
| 5GB for 30 days | $13.00 |
| 10GB for 30 days | $19.50 |
| 20GB for 30 days | $32.00 |
Coverage. Airalo partners with O2 and Three in the UK, ensuring reliable coverage with LTE connectivity.
My experience with Airalo. Installation was smooth: I made sure I was on Wi-Fi, installed an app, bought and enabled the UK plan, and turned on data roaming without a hitch.
Once I activated the eSIM, the connection kicked in quickly with no noticeable lag. Browsing and maps loaded smoothly, and I didn’t run into any buffering when streaming music or videos.
Customer support. From what I saw when testing Airalo, live-chat is its go-to support method: you can chat 24/7 through the app or site, or even hit them up via WhatsApp, which is super handy when you're traveling in a different time zone and stuck at odd hours. Plus, there’s always email support in case you need it.
3. Jetpac – most affordable eSIM for UK trips
| Rating: | |
| Countries and regions: | Over 200 destinations |
| Phone calls/SMS: | No |
| Customer support: | Live chat, email, WhatsApp, help center, and FAQ |
| Starting price: | $1.00 (4 days, 1GB) |
Traveling in the UK is stress-free with Jetpac’s fantastic eSIM deals. This eSIM doesn’t just give you access to the internet but also cuts expensive roaming costs. Besides, it’s designed specifically for frequent travelers and anyone who values convenience – no SIM swaps and no roaming surprises.
Data plans and pricing. JetPac has 7 different limited GB local eSIM plans for the UK – you can get from 3GB to 40GB of data, plus it offers a variety of unlimited GB plans. The validity of these plans ranges from 3 to 30 days. However, there is also a great deal for new users – 1GB for $1.00 for 4 days. Jetpac also has data plans for Europe that cover the UK. Its regional plans have the same allocated data and validity periods as its UK local plans.
Jetpac’s eSIM plans for the UK start at $1.00 for a 1GB, 4-day plan. If you’re traveling to the UK for longer, you can opt for its 40GB, 30-day plan, which costs only $29.99.
Here’s an overview of Jetpac’s local plans for the UK.
| Data plan | Price |
| 1GB for 4 days | $1.00 |
| 3GB for 7 days | $9.00 |
| 5GB for 30 days | $12.00 |
| 10GB for 30 days | $16.00 |
| 15GB for 30 days | $19.99 |
| 20GB for 30 days | $35.00 |
| 30GB for 30 days | $25.00 |
| 40GB for 30 days | $29.99 |
| Unlimited for 3-30 days | From $12.99 |
Coverage. Jetpac works with some of the biggest UK network carriers, including Everything Everywhere (EE), Three, and Vodafone (UK). It offers 3G, 4G, LTE, or 5G connectivity in the country.
My experience with Jetpac. Setup took me around two minutes. I scanned the QR code Jetpac sent, let the eSIM install, turned on data roaming, and ran a quick test while I was still in the UK. In general, barely any effort to get online, and the speeds were more than good enough for streaming and real-time map use. Jetpac made my trip hassle-free and I was able to enjoy an equally stable connection between the cities and in nature.
Customer support. I used Jetpac’s WhatsApp support, got answers quickly (first response in around 5 minutes). And if chat isn’t your thing, you’ve got email and detailed support articles to fall back on.
4. aloSIM – top UK eSIM for quick and easy setup
| Rating: | |
| Countries and regions: | Over 200 destinations |
| Phone calls/SMS: | Yes |
| Customer support: | 24/7 live chat, email, help center, and FAQ |
| Starting price: | $5.00 (7 days, 1GB) |
aloSIM provides eSIM solutions designed for frequent travelers. Its eSIMs ensure uninterrupted mobile connectivity in the UK and Ireland. Plus, you get a phone number for calls and texts.
Data plans and pricing. aloSIM offers several local plans for the United Kingdom, ranging from 1GB to unlimited data. Another option is the British Isles plan that, in addition to the UK, includes the Republic of Ireland. It also has regional plans for Europe, covering the UK. aloSIM supports calling and texting on all its plans, but you need to download its sister app, Hushed, to access these services.
aloSIM has 7 local UK plans, ranging from $5.00 (7 days, 1GB) to $35.00 (10 days, unlimited GB). The British Isles plan varies from $4.50 (7 days, 1GB) to $20.00 (30 days, 10GB). Its European regional plans start at $5.00 (7 days, 1GB) and go as far as $185.00 (180 days, 100GB).
Here’s a breakdown of all aloSIM’s local plans for the UK.
| Data plan | Price |
| 1GB for 7 days | $5.00 |
| 2GB for 15 days | $7.50 |
| 3GB for 30 days | $10.00 |
| 5GB for 30 days | $15.00 |
| 10GB for 30 days | $22.50 |
| Unlimited data for 10 days | $35.00 |
| 20GB for 30 days | $36.00 |
Coverage. aloSIM partners with EE, Vodafone, and Hutchison 3 UK in the UK, ensuring reliable data coverage. Its internet connectivity options include 5G and LTE, and offers unlimited hotspotting, depending on your plan. One downside is that its unlimited data plan slows down to 512Kbps after the first 1.5GB is reached.
My experience with aloSIM. I found the installation of aloSIM no different than using any other eSIM. I opened the app, scanned the QR code it sent, let the eSIM install, switched my phone to use the aloSIM for data and turned off mobile data on my regular SIM so I wouldn’t get billed. After that, I could immediately use data to check the maps and get to my destination without any problems.
For an additional test, I sent a handful of photos on WhatsApp, pulled up train times, and watched a short YouTube clip – everything loaded straight away.
Customer support. I checked out aloSIM’s support while setting things up, and it was pretty standard. Its FAQ section covered most of the basics I needed, and when I had a question that wasn’t there, I just opened the live chat on its website and got a quick reply. It also offers email support if you’d rather go that route.
5. Nomad – top UK eSIM for uninterrupted connection
| Rating: | |
| Countries and regions: | Over 200 destinations |
| Phone calls/SMS: | No |
| Customer support: | In-app and website chat, help center, and FAQ |
| Starting price: | $4.50 (7 days, 1GB) |
Nomad provides eSIM solutions tailored for travelers seeking seamless connectivity. It's particularly beneficial for those who need flexible data options while exploring the UK and beyond. Nomad has both regional and local coverage. Unfortunately, it offers data-only plans.
Data plans and pricing. Nomad has 10 local plans for the UK, and it’s also included in the global, and 2 regional data plans for Europe, covering the UK. You also get to choose between Regular and Day plans, which is a handy option for quick trips.
Nomad’s local eSIM plans for the UK range from $4.50 (7 days, 1GB) to $45.00 (30 days, 50GB), plus Unlimited GB tier, while its regional plans for Europe range from $5.50 (7 days, 1 GB) to $29.00 (30 days, 50GB).
Here’s a quick rundown of Nomad’s local plans for the UK.
| Data plan | Price |
| 1GB for 7 days | $4.50 |
| 3GB for 30 days | $9.00 |
| 5GB for 30 days | $12.50 |
| 10GB for 30 days | $16.00 |
| 20GB for 30 days | $20.00 |
| 50GB for 30 days | $45.00 |
| Unlimited GB for 3-10days | $11.00-31.00 |
Coverage. Nomad partners with 3, O2 UK, Vodafone, and EE to provide reliable coverage in the UK. This eSIM supports different internet connectivity options, including 5G, 4G, and LTE. It supports internet hotspotting, but similarly to aloSIM, unlimited GB plans only give 2GB per day at 4G/5G speeds before throttling speed to 1Mbps.
My experience with Nomad. I grabbed Nomad eSIM for the UK and got a QR code in my email. The setup was pretty standard: I just scanned it, let the eSIM install, and switched over to it for data.
During UK Nomad eSIM testing, the connection stayed steady: maps worked just fine, and I streamed a couple of episodes on the go. The app kept me posted on data use, so there were no surprises.
Customer support. With Nomad, customer support is mostly handled through the app or website chat, plus the help center. When I reached out, the process started with a chatbot that filtered my question before passing me to a real agent. It only took a few quick exchanges to get through, and once I was connected to a person, I got the info I needed without trouble.
6. GigSky – best eSIM for unlimited data in the UK
| Rating: | |
| Countries and regions: | Over 200 destinations |
| Phone calls/SMS: | No |
| Customer support: | Email, help center, and FAQ |
| Starting price: | $5.99 (7 days, 1GB) |
GigSky is a versatile eSIM with plans for more than 200 locations. It has Inflight and OffShore plans (including plans for cruises) as well as fixed and unlimited data plans. If you’re engaged in data-intensive activities like streaming, GigSky is the perfect eSIM to choose for your trip to the UK.
Data plans and pricing. GigSky has local, regional, and global plans covering the UK. There are even plans for travelers on cruises that have stops in the UK. GigSky offers 500MB for free to new users, allowing you to test the service before purchasing a plan. Its data plans come with 1GB to 100GB of data and are valid for 7 to 180 days. You can also get unlimited data for various time periods, starting at $4.24 per day.
Another great thing is that GigSky allows you to compare the local UK plan against its other plans covering UK – Europe, World Plan, Cruise + Europe, and Cruise + World – right on the same page.
GigSky’s plans for the UK start at $5.99 for 1GB of data, valid for 7 days. Here’s a rundown of all GigSky’s local plans for the UK.
| Data plan | Price |
| 500MB for 7 days (for first-time users) | $0.00 |
| 1GB for 7 days | $5.99 |
| 3GB for 15 days | $9.34 |
| 5GB for 30 days | $15.29 |
| 10GB for 30 days | $21.99 |
| 50GB for 90 days | $56.24 |
| 100GB for 180 days | $84.37 |
| Unlimited data for 1-30 days | $4.24-56.24 |
Coverage. Like Saily, GigSky doesn’t disclose which local carriers it works with in the UK. However, it claims to connect users to a super-fast network. This eSIM provider supports 3G, LTE, 4G, and 5G in different locations. Its unlimited plan also includes a daily cap of 2.5GB data, after which speeds are reduced until the next day, though they don’t disclose how slow it gets.
My experience with GigSky. I got a GigSky eSIM for the UK, and setting it up was just as simple as the ones above in the list. After purchasing, I just scanned the QR code GigSky sent me, and it was ready to go in a few minutes.
When testing GigSky for the UK, I could easily check my remaining data and plan expiry in the app. Streaming a video, checking maps, and sending photos all worked without any issues. The app does its job, though I personally find Saily and Airalo a bit easier to navigate day to day.
Customer support. For GigSky, I found the fastest way to reach support is via email (one for service issues and another for security requests). The downside is that when I tried to get help through the app, I was pushed to a request form instead of a real chat, which makes urgent problems harder to sort out quickly.
7. Instabridge – UK eSIM with pay-as-you-go plans
| Rating: | |
| Countries and regions: | Over 190 destinations |
| Phone calls/SMS: | No |
| Customer support: | In-app customer support, email, help center, knowledge base, and FAQ |
| Starting price: | $2.00 (7 days, 1GB) |
Instabridge is one of the few eSIMs that offer pay-as-you-go data plans. It also has regular local, regional, and global plans.
Data plans and pricing. Instabridge offers local UK eSIM plans and comprehensive Europe plans covering 34 countries. It also has pay-as-you-go plans for the UK.
If you opt for Instabridge's UK local plan, you have 4 options, along with its pay-as-you-go offer.
| Data plan | Price |
| 1GB for 7 days | $2.00 |
| 3GB for 15 days | $4.50 |
| 10GB for 30 days | $12.00 |
| 20GB for 7 days | $16.00 |
| Pay-as-you-go plan | $2.00 per GB |
Coverage. Instabridge offers extensive coverage in the UK thanks to its partnership with various local carriers, including EE UK, H3G UK, Manx Telecom, O2 UK, Sure Guernsey Limited, and Vodafone UK.
My experience with Instabridge. Similarly to other providers, activating Instabridge was easy. I bought the plan in the app, tapped Activate, and a few seconds later it was ready.
It’s data-only, so I couldn’t make calls, but for browsing, navigation, and streaming a short clip here and there, it did everything I needed. I tested it by loading maps while wandering around London and checked a few local train schedules, and it worked as expected.
Customer support. For support, I think it could improve since when I tried Instabridge live chat and asked for a human, the bot told me to wait up to 24 hours (no, thank you). On the other hand, you can also reach them via email, and their troubleshooting guide covers the most common issues if you want to try fixing things yourself.
8. Holafly – fast and user-friendly eSIM for the UK
| Rating: | |
| Countries and regions: | Over 250 destinations |
| Phone calls/SMS: | No |
| Customer support: | 24/7 live chat, email, WhatsApp, and FAQ |
| Starting price: | From $3.90 (1 day, unlimited data) |
Holafly is a reliable eSIM provider with unlimited data plans and coverage in 250+ destinations, including the UK. You can find local and regional plans for the UK with stellar internet speeds. On top of that, there is even a separate plan for London.
Data plans and pricing. In terms of the eSIM plans for the UK, Holafly offers unique options. There are local and regional plans, but you can also get a separate eSIM only for London. The best part is that all plans have unlimited data and last up to 90 days.
The starting price of this UK eSIM is $3.90. Here’s a snippet of Holafly’s plans:
| Data plan | Price |
| Unlimited data for 1 day | $3.90 |
| Unlimited data for 7 days | $27.30 |
| Unlimited data for 15 days | $50.90 |
| Unlimited data for 30 days | $74.90 |
| Unlimited data for 60 days | $106.90 |
| Unlimited data for 90 days | $139.90 |
Coverage. Holafly works with a few UK network carriers, including Virgin Media O2, Vodafone United Kingdom, and 3 United Kingdom. You can expect blazing internet speeds, except for occasional slowdowns in remote areas. This eSIM supports 3G, 4G, LTE, and 5G speeds. One downside is that Holafly only allows 500MB/day of hotspotting.
My experience with Holafly. I set up Holafly using the QR code it sent. The app itself is simple and easy to navigate, letting me activate the eSIM and keep an eye on data usage while moving between cities.
Similarly to other providers, I didn’t have any issues when trying to stream or accessing basics like Google maps. However, one thing to be aware of is that some data might route through networks outside the country, so privacy-conscious users might want to keep that in mind. For general browsing and travel use, though, it handled everything smoothly.
Customer support. Holafly’s customer support is easy to use. I submitted a ticket through the app, and the team got back to me quickly with clear, helpful answers. It also offers 24/7 live chat and has a solid troubleshooting guide and FAQ, so you can often find what you need without waiting for a reply.
Comparison of the best eSIM providers for the UK
Choosing the best eSIM for UK travel in 2026 gives you reliable coverage, fair pricing, and easy setup. Whether you’re in London or Cardiff, the right eSIM keeps you connected with ease. Here’s a side-by-side comparison of the best eSIMs for the UK.
| eSIM provider | Rating | Starting price | Countries and regions | Local plan options | Compatibility | Networks | Calls and texts | Customer support |
| Saily | $4.27 | 200+ | 7, 15, and 30 days | All iPhone and Android devices that support eSIM | 3G, 4G, LTE, and 5G | ❌ No | 24/7 live chat, help center, email, and FAQ | |
| Airalo | $4.00 | 200+ | 1, 7, 15, and 30 days | All iPhone and Android devices that support eSIM | 3G, 4G, LTE, and 5G | ✅ Yes, only on UniMobile+ plans | 24/7/365 live chat, email, social media, help center, and FAQ | |
| Jetpac | $1.00 | 200+ | 4, 7, 15, and 30 days | All iPhone and Android devices that support eSIM | 3G, 4G, LTE, and 5G | ❌ No | Live chat, email, WhatsApp, help center, and FAQ | |
| aloSIM | $5.00 | 200+ | 7, 10, 15, and 30 days | All iPhone and Android devices that support eSIM | LTE and 4G | ✅ Yes, but via a sister app | 24/7 live chat, email, help center, and FAQ | |
| Nomad | $4.50 | 200+ | 7 and 30 days | All iPhone and Android devices that support eSIM | 3G, 4G, LTE, and 5G | ❌ No | In-app and website chat, help center, and FAQ | |
| GigSky | $5.99 | 200+ | 7, 15, 30, and 90 days | All iPhone and Android devices that support eSIM | 3G, 4G, LTE, and 5G | ❌ No | Email, help center, and FAQ | |
| Instabridge | $2.00 | 190+ | 7, 15, and 30 days + pay-as-you-go plan | All iPhone and Android devices that support eSIM | 3G, 4G, LTE, and 5G | ❌ No | In-app customer support, email, help center, knowledge base, and FAQ | |
| Holafly | $3.90 | 250+ | 1, 7, 15, 30, 60, and 90 days | All iPhone and Android devices that support eSIM | 3G, 4G, LTE, and 5G | ❌ No | 24/7 live chat, email, WhatsApp, and FAQ |
How we tested the best eSIMs for UK travel
Does my phone support eSIM?
Before getting an eSIM, you need to check your phone’s compatibility. Your phone's eSIM compatibility largely depends on the brand and model. Fortunately, most new smartphones support eSIMs. Some don’t even have physical SIM card holders anymore. Here’s how to check if your phone supports eSIM.
Many modern Android phones support eSIM. To verify your phone’s compatibility, go to Settings > Connection > SIM card manager. If there’s an Add eSIM option, it means your device supports this technology.
iPhone XR and later models support the eSIM feature. To check compatibility, you can refer to Apple’s official list of supported devices or go to Settings > General > About on your iPhone. If you see the Available SIM option and a 15-digit IMEI number, your phone supports eSIMs.
If your phone is carrier-locked, you may be unable to use an eSIM. You need to contact your operator and confirm if your phone is locked and if it’s possible to unlock it.
How to activate the eSIM data plan for the UK on your phone
The activation process for an eSIM data plan may vary slightly, depending on the provider and the model of your phone. However, there are three main ways to activate an eSIM.
This is one of the simplest ways to activate an eSIM. Here’s how to do it:
- Sign up and choose a data plan from your eSIM provider
- Download and install the provider’s app on your device
- Open the app and tap the Activate button
The eSIM will begin installing automatically. If necessary, follow any prompts to adjust your device settings to finish activation.
QR-based installation is another easy way to activate your eSIM. Here’s how it works:
- Choose and purchase a data plan from your eSIM provider – you’ll receive a QR code via email after checkout
- Open your phone’s settings and select Add eSIM or Use QR code
- Scan the QR code to start the installation
- Follow the on-screen instructions – set the eSIM as your primary data SIM and turn on roaming if needed
Manual eSIM installation is a bit more technical but still doable. Here’s how to set it up:
- Buy a data plan directly from your eSIM provider – you'll receive an activation code, SM-DP+ address, and other setup details
- On iOS, go to Settings > Mobile Data > Add eSIM and choose Enter Details Manually. On Android, go to Settings > Network & Internet > SIMs and select Add eSIM manually
- Enter the provided eSIM information to complete the setup
I recommend closely following your chosen provider’s instructions. They often include screenshots or device-specific steps.
You can start activating an eSIM before your trip, but in some cases, the activation may only be completed once you arrive at your destination – only then will you be able to access the internet, make calls, and send texts.
Benefits of using an eSIM in the United Kingdom
There are several reasons you should consider using an eSIM in the United Kingdom, including:
- Instant data access. You can activate your eSIM upon arrival and get instant access to data services without having to wait until you get a physical SIM card.
- Convenience. You don’t have to deal with the hassle of visiting a store to get a SIM card, saving you valuable time.
- Retaining your number. You can keep using your domestic phone number while reserving the eSIM for internet access.
- No physical SIM is required. You don’t have to remove your physical SIM card to use an eSIM, streamlining the process of getting connected.
- Cheaper costs and faster speeds. Say goodbye to expensive and slow roaming speeds. eSIMs offer competitive rates and faster connectivity options.
- Easy data top-up. You can easily top up your eSIM data as needed, ensuring you stay connected without interruptions.
Things to know about using an eSIM in the UK
Here are a few things to keep in mind about using an eSIM in the UK:
- Ensure your phone is unlocked. Locked phones are tied to a specific mobile service provider, restricting your ability to connect them to eSIM cards.
- Check phone compatibility. Not all mobile phones support eSIM cards, so verify that your device is compatible with them before purchasing a data plan.
- Calling and phone number. Not all eSIMs come with a phone number or calling support. Some eSIMs may only allow you to receive calls and SMS.
- Activation timing. Note that the validity period of some eSIM cards starts counting after installation, while others begin upon connecting to a supported network for the first time. Also, some eSIM cards must be activated before the trip commences. Avoid activating the eSIM card too early to maximize its validity period.
- Activation process. eSIMs have different activation methods, such as app-based, QR-based, or manual activation. Choose the method that suits your preferences and follow the instructions provided by your eSIM provider.
- Expiration period. There may be a time limit for activating the eSIM card, typically within 1-3 months of purchase. After this period, the eSIM may expire. It's essential to activate it within the specified timeframe to avoid any issues.
How to make calls with eSIM
If you are planning to make calls with your eSIM, here are the options available to you:
- Choose an eSIM provider that supports calling. Some eSIM providers offer phone numbers for making calls.
- Use your domestic SIM card. While eSIMs primarily offer data plans, you can use a physical SIM card from your home country to make international calls. This way, you reserve your existing phone number for calls while using your eSIM for data services.
- Use VoIP apps. Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) apps such as WhatsApp, FaceTime, or Google Voice are an alternative option for making online calls. These apps use your data connection to make calls, bypassing traditional cellular voice networks and offering cost-effective communication solutions.
Best eSIM for the UK: final thoughts
Staying online while abroad is essential to any traveller. I can’t imagine having to navigate busy London’s streets without the help of maps that depend on a stable internet connection. That’s why on all my travels, including the UK, I rely on eSIMs. They also let me forget about roaming fees and SIM card swaps. eSIMs make my travel much more convenient.
While testing eSIM providers in London, I focused on three things that really matter: reliable coverage, affordability, and security. Saily ticked all the boxes, making it my top pick for the UK eSIM in 2026. It’s simple to set up, maintained great connection across the UK, and kept my connection secure at all times.
More eSIM guides from Cybernews:
Best eSIM providers: Discover the top eSIM providers
Best eSIM providers in Europe: Find the best eSIM for European travels
Best eSIM providers in Japan: Pick the top eSIM when traveling to Japan
Best eSIM providers in the US: Choose an eSIM provider fit for US traveling
FAQ
What is the cheapest eSIM card for the United Kingdom?
Jetpac offers the cheapest eSIM for UK travelers. For $1.00, you get 1GB of data for 4 days. However, Saily offers one of the best long-term plans — for $30.39, you get 20GB of data for 30 days.
Which eSIM is best for the United Kingdom?
Saily is the best eSIM to use in the UK. This provider offers 24/7 support, a wide array of local plans, budget-friendly prices, and strong security features to keep your connection safe.
Should I get an eSIM for the UK?
Yes, getting an eSIM for the UK is a smart move, especially if you want to avoid expensive roaming charges. Many eSIM providers offer affordable data plans perfect for both short visits and longer stays.
Can I make calls with an eSIM card in the United Kingdom?
Most eSIM providers offer data-only plans in the UK, which means you cannot make phone calls or send text messages. However, you can use your primary phone number to make calls. On my list, only Airalo and aloSIM support calling and texting. Alternatively, you can make free calls using apps like WhatsApp or FaceTime.
