Get connected anywhere: A comprehensive guide to Airalo's global eSIM data plans
Are you tired of being hit with massive roaming fees when you travel abroad? Then you should look no further than Airalo, the virtual mobile network operator that has recently hit the milestone of over one million travellers using their eSIMs!
As the travel connectivity industry, particularly the eSIM market, continues to grow rapidly, Airalo stands out as a cost-effective and convenient solution for staying connected on the go.
In this guide, we'll take you through everything you need to know about Airalo. From the key benefits of using their service, to a step-by-step guide on how to purchase and activate a plan, to information on compatible devices and coverage availability.
We'll also cover customer service and support options and answer some frequently asked questions.
To jump to key information in the guide, use the quick links below:
So, whether you're planning your next business trip or embarking on a long-awaited vacation, let Airalo make your travels worry-free. With Airalo, you can keep in touch with family and friends, stay connected for work, and share your experiences on social media without breaking the bank.
Ready to get started? Let's dive in!
Introduction to Airalo
With Airalo, you can say goodbye to the hassle and expense of traditional roaming. With just a few taps on your mobile device, you can purchase and activate an eSIM data plan that will give you local data at an affordable price.
Whether you're a frequent traveller or just planning a one-time trip, Airalo is the perfect solution for staying connected on-the-go.
Airalo's eSIM plans are compatible with a wide range of devices and offer coverage in a variety of countries, making it easy to find a plan that's right for you. Plus, Airalo's user-friendly interface and support resources make the activation and management process a breeze.
The benefits of using an eSIM are numerous, like cost savings, convenience and flexibility, and with Airalo, you can start enjoying them right away.
If you’re not familiar with eSIMs and how they work, and you have the funds, we recommend buying a local eSIM for your country before you depart, just to practice with installation and troubleshooting, all to make sure you’re not going to have any issues once you’re already abroad.
Benefits of using Airalo
When it comes to staying connected while traveling, we think Airalo is an absolute game-changer.
Using Airalo means that you'll never have to worry about huge data roaming fees again. Airalo's virtual mobile network allows you to purchase and use local mobile data plans from countries around the world, so you can stay connected without breaking the bank.
Oh, if only Airalo was available when we first travelling overseas many years ago…
But the benefits don't stop there. With Airalo, installation is a breeze, taking just a couple of minutes, which is just what you need when you’ve arrived in a new country and temporarily need to use expensive roaming, or slow airport Wi-Fi.
And, if you need to top-up your data, you can do so easily, wherever you are. You'll be able to keep your existing number while traveling so you won't have to worry about missing important calls or texts from back home.
Airalo's service provides you with the convenience, flexibility, and cost savings you need to make the most of your travels.
How to purchase an Airalo eSIM
Here's how you can purchase an Airalo eSIM:
First, get started with Airalo by downloading the app on your compatible device from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store.
Next, search and select the eSIM for your desired destination. Airalo's eSIM coverage is constantly expanding, so if the country you’re looking for isn’t available, you should check back the next time you travel.
Once you've chosen a plan, purchase and install your eSIM. There are three options for installation - directly, using a QR code or manual install.
Once your eSIM is installed and activated, you can start to enjoy seamless data connectivity throughout your journey.
Compatible devices
Airalo's eSIM plans can be used with a wide range of devices including smartphones, tablets and other mobile devices.
For a device to be compatible with Airalo's eSIM it must be eSIM-compatible and carrier-unlocked. It's also worth noting that country and carrier-specific restrictions may apply.
We recommend checking the unlock status of your phone before you depart.
A constantly updated list of eSIM-compatible devices can be found on Airalo's website. Devices from major manufacturers such as Apple, Samsung, Google, and others are supported, and the list is constantly expanding as more eSIM-compatible devices are released.
If you frequently travel overseas and plan to use Airalo’s service, be sure to check Airalo’s device list before you purchase your next device.
Coverage and availability
Airalo offers eSIM coverage in over 190+ countries and regions worldwide, making it a highly accessible option for travellers.
They have three types of eSIMs: Local, Regional, and Global.
Local eSIMs allow users to get coverage in one of the 190+ countries that Airalo covers. This is a good choice if you're only visiting one country on your trip.
Regional eSIMs give coverage for entire regions and continents. For example, the Eurolink regional eSIM covers 39 countries in Europe, and The Island Hopper regional eSIM covers 24 Caribbean islands. There are also regional eSIMs for Africa, Latin America, the Middle East and Asia. This eSIM is a great option if you're on a multi-country trip within the same region.
Global eSIMs give coverage for 87 countries, ranging from 1-20 GB and 7-180 days of validity. If you're planning a multi-country trip in multiple regions of the world, this is the eSIM for you.
The availability of eSIMs and coverage can vary by region and country, so it is recommended that users check the list of covered countries on the Airalo website before purchase (particularly for the regional and global eSIM) to confirm availability for their destination.
Customer service and support
When it comes to support, Airalo has several options available to help users with their eSIM data plan.
The first and most convenient way is to use the live chat feature available on the Airalo website or through their app, which allows users to instantly connect with a customer service representative for assistance.
Though if you prefer a more traditional method of communication, you can also reach out to Airalo's Support team via email or contact form.
Airalo also has a strong presence on social media, and customers can reach out to them via their @airalosupport and @airalocom handles on Twitter, or fb.me/airalocom on Facebook.
For more detailed information, you can also check out their contact page on their website.
In addition to the support options above, Airalo also offers a comprehensive self-service help centre and blog that are a wealth of information and resources on all things related to eSIMs, including specific device issues, installation instructions, and guides on how to install an eSIM on various devices.
Both resources appear to regularly be updated with new information, and therefore a valuable resource for resolving any issues you may encounter while using Airalo's eSIM service.
There are some reports online of difficulty in getting in contact with their customer service team, but this could also be customer expectations around immediate responses when travelling with data issues.
We recommend reaching out to Airalo via a variety of the methods above if you are having urgent issues abroad, or try searching their help centre or blog, which may already have an answer for you.
Limitations and drawbacks of using Airalo
While we love Airalo, there are still some limitations and drawbacks to keep in mind.
Limited device compatibility: While Airalo is compatible with a wide range of smartphones, tablets, and other mobile devices, there are still some limitations as to which devices can use their service. For example, certain devices from mainland China, Hong Kong, and Macao may not be compatible with Airalo eSIMs.
Limited support for certain countries and regions: Airalo offers coverage in over 190+ countries, however the availability of eSIMs and the extent of coverage may vary by region and country. Some countries may have less coverage than others, or be more expensive, so it's important to check the availability of an eSIM for your destination before purchasing.
Limited data and validity period: Depending on the eSIM purchased, data and validity period may be limited. For many providers, there is no easy way to change your eSIM to a longer validity period if you realise you need more time (read - extend your trip), and you’ll just have to purchase a new one.
Limited customer support: Airalo offers customer service via a live chat, email, and social media channels, 24/7, but certain languages may not be supported, and you may not always get a response right away when you need it most. When you’re stressed and trying to connect in a far-flung destination, many people may prefer to pick up the phone to call someone, especially if you’re not tech-savvy! This is not an option for those using Airalo, and we expect that this keeps their customer support costs lower compared to more traditional carriers.
Frequently asked questions
Is Airalo trusted?
Airalo has made a name for itself in the world of travel eSIMs, with (as quoted by themselves) over a million satisfied customers. Their reputation is reinforced by the positive reviews they have received on the Apple and Google Play stores. While it's true that some negative reviews can be found on sites like Trustpilot, it's important to remember that these sites tend to be frequented by people who have had a specific issue. It's also worth noting that many satisfied customers may not leave reviews at all, but simply give a five-star rating on their phone’s app store. All in all, we think it's safe to say that Airalo is a reputable and trusted choice for travel eSIM needs.
Can I make calls with Airalo?
You can easily check the plan type of any eSIM you're interested in by visiting the "Buy Now" section on their website or app, and looking for the "Additional Information" tab. This will indicate whether the eSIM you're considering offers data only, or includes additional features like calling and texting. It's important to note that most of Airalo's eSIMs are data-only and do not support traditional telephony services like phone calls and SMS text messages. However, you can still use internet-based messaging and calling services through third-party apps like WhatsApp and Telegram. Just be sure to set up these apps on your device before activating your eSIM.
What is an eSIM?
An eSIM, or embedded SIM, is a digital SIM card that operates within your device's firmware. Instead of requiring users to physically swap SIM cards, eSIMs allow you to easily switch between mobile networks and data plans.
What is an eSIM data plan?
An eSIM data plan is a prepaid data-only plan that can be installed directly onto your eSIM-compatible device. This allows you to access local data services at affordable prices, without the need for a physical SIM card, WiFi, or expensive roaming charges. Plus, you can still use your existing phone number with your eSIM data plan - great for keeping in touch with family and friends back home.
Does an Airalo eSIM come with a number?
When it comes to eSIM numbers, some Airalo plans come with a number, but others don’t. We understand that the company is working to add more options over time. Make sure to check the description of your chosen eSIM for information on whether it comes with a number, especially if this is a must for you when travelling.
How much does Airalo cost?
Airalo's eSIMs start from US$4.50 for 1GB of data. This makes it an affordable and convenient option for travellers looking for a flexible, cost-effective way to stay connected while on the go. Costs differ depending on the region or country you intend to purchase an eSIM for, so we recommend just downloading their app and checking the current pricing for your destination.
Summing Up
Airalo is a versatile and cost-effective solution for staying connected while travelling.
With coverage in over 190 countries and regions, a wide range of compatible devices, and user-friendly interface, Airalo makes it easy for travellers to stay connected without breaking the bank.
The service offers cost savings, convenience and flexibility which makes it an appealing option for travellers. However, it's important to note that there are limitations to the service such as device compatibility and support for certain countries and regions, as well as data and validity period limitations. Additionally, while customer support is available, it may be limited in certain languages and during certain hours.
As frequent travellers however, we think Airalo is a solid choice for those looking for a reliable and affordable way to stay connected while on the go. If you're planning a trip and want to experience the ease and affordability of global connectivity, give Airalo a try and see for yourself - we have it as a permanent fixture on our phones!
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