Airalo Review: Is this the Best eSim App for Travelers?
Have you been wondering how to stay connected while traveling abroad? In this Airalo review, I've got you covered! Airalo is the world's first eSIM store and is trusted by many travelers globally.
Since I've traveled extensively outside Europe this year, I often rely on Airalo for connectivity. They've recently introduced a membership program that rewards you for every eSIM purchase. The amount of cashback you receive depends on your membership status. I'm close to achieving platinum traveler status, which shows just how much I use Airalo.
I would've already reached platinum status if I hadn't been traveling within Europe so much!
This comprehensive Airalo review will delve into its features, pros, and cons.
Airalo App Overview
Overall, I highly recommend usingAiraloto travelers seeking a convenient and cost-effective solution for staying connected while abroad. Airalo is a unique eSim store that allows you to purchase digital SIM cards or eSIM for over 190 countries and regions.
What is Airalo?
Airaloeliminates the need for physical SIM cards, the hassle of swapping them in different countries, adding a load, and the cost of roaming charges. With Airalo, travelers can easily select a data plan based on their destination and duration of stay, offering both flexibility and affordability.
The setup process is straightforward; you only need a compatible phone and an internet connection, making it an ideal choice, especially for frequent travelers. The Airalo app is user-friendly, and its diverse range of data plans caters to various needs, making it a top choice for staying connected globally.
Airalo Features
In this part of the Airalo review, let's take a closer look at its key features. From seamless setup to the flexibility it offers while traveling, we'll see how Airalo really makes a difference for international connectivity.
Instant Connection
You can set up Airalo even before arriving at your destination. Airalo enables immediate connection to local networks upon landing, eliminating the need to purchase a SIM card in the destination country. This ensures you can stay connected as soon as you land, without any worries.
Multiple eSIM Access
You can store multiple eSIMs in your account, which is ideal for digital nomads or those visiting several countries. This feature eliminates the need for managing physical SIM cards. The great part is, once you've set up the eSIM, you can simply top it up if you revisit the country and need to use it again.
Language Support
The Airalo app is available in 22 languages so you can browse the app in the language you are comfortable with.
Pros of Airalo
- Instant connection to local networks.
- Easy setup process.
- Ability to store and manage multiple eSIMs.
- Diverse short and long-term data plans.
- Extensive global coverage.
- Competitive local rates.
Cons of Airalo
- Does not provide a local phone number.
- Primarily offers data-only eSIMs, with limited voice and data packages.
- Service quality may vary depending on local internet connectivity.
- Initial setup might be challenging for those who are not familiar with eSIMs.
- You need to manually select a supported network to access data.
Airalo Review: My Experience Using the App
Choosing Local eSIMs Over Regional Options
I often useAiraloto purchase local eSIMs. Living in Sweden, I don't need regional eSIMs as my current SIM works within the EU.
Installation Experience
The buying and installation process of the eSIM was straightforward. It's important to note that an eSIM can only be installed once; deleting it means purchasing a new one. Thankfully, I've never encountered issues with installations.
Managing Multiple eSIMs
Currently, I manage two eSIMs. When traveling, I simply disable my secondary eSIM to use Airalo's eSIM seamlessly.
Data Management and Notifications
One advantage of Airalo is not having to worry about data depletion. The app notifies me when my data is running low, and I can check usage to decide if a top-up is necessary.
Connectivity Experiences in Different Countries
While I've had smooth experiences in the US, Costa Rica, and Switzerland, I faced connectivity issues in Japan, such as trouble sending and receiving messages. However, this was not a major deterrent for me; network quality can vary with any SIM.
Overall Affordability and Convenience
Considering the affordability and ease of use, Airalo is a great fit for me as a frequent traveler. It saves valuable time, as I don't need to purchase and set up a physical SIM upon arrival in a new country. Everything can be managed directly from my phone. Airalo is still cheaper than turning on my data roaming to get internet access.
Who is Airalo for?
Airalo is ideal for:
- Frequent international travelers who need seamless connectivity across countries.
- Digital nomads moving between different regions.
- Budget-conscious tourists seeking affordable data plans.
Airalo Pricing
Airalo offers various pricing options, such as 1 GB of data for 7 days in the United States at $4.50, with other packages and regional offerings available at different rates.
If you sign up using my Airalo referral codeKAREN5890, you'll receive a $3 credit off your first purchase.
Airalo Alternatives
- Holafly: Offers unlimited data plans, which are perfect for heavy data users who don't mind the cost. The eSIM switches carriers to provide the best signal, offering coverage from multiple carriers.
- Nomad: Provides access to prepaid data plans in 165+ countries. It offers competitively priced local data, making it ideal for budget travelers.
- AloSIM: Priced similarly to Airalo, it allows you to have a data plan in 170+ countries.
How to Use Airalo
Before buying and installing an Airalo eSIM, ensure that your device is:
- Carrier-unlocked: This means your device is not tied to a contract with a specific mobile carrier.
- eSIM compatible: Generally, smartphones manufactured in 2018 or later are compatible. Check Airalo's list of compatible eSIM devices for confirmation.
1
Buy an eSIM
To start using Airalo, you'll need to purchase an eSIM:
- Navigate to the Airalo website or download the Airalo app.
- Find the destination you're traveling to and choose an eSIM.
Consider how much data you need, the validity period, and its price, if you're traveling to multiple countries, consider getting a regional or global eSIM.
2
Install your eSIM
Once you've purchased your eSIM, you'll need a stable internet connection to install it on your device.
There are three options for installing an Airalo eSIM: direct, QR code, or manual. I usually opt for the direct method through the Airalo app, following the step-by-step prompts for installation.
This method is the easiest for me, as it simply involves following the provided installation steps.
3
Activate your eSIM
I've noticed that not all eSIMs automatically activate upon installation. Some only activate when you connect to a supported network. This means if you activate your eSIM before traveling, you will still need to manually connect to a supported network at your destination. For eSIMs that activate upon installation, no further action is required after installation.
To find this information for your eSIM:
- Open the Airalo app.
- Select the eSIM you plan to purchase.
- Click 'BUY NOW' to view its details (you don't need to complete the purchase).
- Look for the 'Additional Information' section.
- Read the 'Activation Policy.'
4
Connect to a Local Network
If your eSIM policy requires connecting to a local network, follow these steps to activate your eSIM line:
iPhone:
- Go to Settings.
- Tap Cellular.
- Tap your eSIM.
- Toggle on Turn On This Line.
- Toggle on Data Roaming.
- Tap Network Selection and select a supported network.
Android:
- Go to Settings.
- Tap Network & Internet.
- Tap Mobile Network.
- Turn on your eSIM.
- Turn on Mobile Data.
- Turn on Data Roaming.
- Select a supported network.
FAQs About the Airalo App
Can Airalo be trusted?
Yes, Airalo can be trusted. Many reviews, including my own, from users who have used Airalo, highlight its reliability and friendly customer support, making it a trustworthy choice for travelers.
What are the disadvantages of Airalo?
There could be occasional network reliability issues and the need for manual network selection can be a minor inconvenience.
Does Airalo give you a phone number?
No, Airalo does not provide a phone number. It offers data-only eSIM plans, so you won't have a local number for calls or texts.
Is there a downside to using eSIM?
The main downside to using eSIMs, including Airalo, is their limited compatibility with older or certain smartphone models. Also, they typically offer data services only, requiring alternative solutions for voice calls and texts.
Final Thoughts: Is Airalo Worth It?
Airalo stands out for its ease of use, extensive coverage, and cost-effectiveness, making it a highly recommended choice for international travelers. While there are some limitations, such as the lack of local phone numbers and data-only options, the advantages, especially for frequent travelers, are significant.
Based on personal experience and comparison with other options, Airalo is a reliable and convenient service for staying connected abroad. I hope this Airalo review has been useful and helps you make a decision about your connectivity needs while traveling.
