Roaming charges can add hundreds to your travel costs. We've tested the best international SIM cards and eSIMs across 25 countries to find the best value options for every type of traveller in 2026.
The biggest change in travel connectivity in recent years is the rise of the eSIM. Unlike a physical SIM card that you slot into your phone, an eSIM is downloaded digitally and activated in minutes. Most modern smartphones from 2020 onwards support eSIM technology.
Check if your phone is eSIM compatible before purchasing. iPhone XS and later, Samsung Galaxy S20 and later, and Google Pixel 3 and later all support eSIM. Also check your phone isn't locked to a specific network.
The gold standard for frequent international travellers. One SIM or eSIM works across 200+ countries with no bill shock. Offers both data-only and voice+SMS options. The eSIM Connect plan is particularly good for Europe, with data rates competitive with local SIMs in many countries.
If you're a UK resident, Three's Go Roam plan includes data and calls in 71 countries at no extra charge. For European holidays this is often the most cost-effective option as you simply use your existing allowance.
Pay-as-you-go flexibility with EU roaming included. No contracts, no lock-in. Buy a goodybag before you travel that covers your destination and you'll pay the same as at home across Europe.
WorldSIM or Three Go Roam for UK travellers
du Tourist SIM from airport or WorldSIM eSIM
Airtel or Jio tourist SIM — cheapest data in the world
IIJmio eSIM or renting a pocket WiFi at the airport
Telstra or Optus tourist SIM widely available
T-Mobile prepaid or WorldSIM for short stays
This is the most common question travellers ask. Here's a practical guide:
Turn off auto-updates and background app refresh before you travel. Download maps (Google Maps allows offline download) and playlists before you leave. These simple steps can halve your data usage without changing your behaviour.
For calls back to the UK, WhatsApp, FaceTime and Google Meet over WiFi or your data connection are almost always free and better quality than traditional roaming calls. If you need a UK number for incoming calls, keep your UK SIM active alongside your travel SIM — most modern phones support dual SIM or you can use your UK SIM with call forwarding enabled.
For most international travellers in 2026, WorldSIM remains the most versatile choice — particularly their eSIM product which lets you activate instantly and use across multiple countries on a single plan. UK residents who travel mainly in Europe should check whether their existing network's roaming allowance covers their destination before buying anything additional.