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If you’re still swapping out plastic SIM cards every time you land in a new country, then you might as well still be using fax because it’s time to catch and get with the times.
eSIMs—short for embedded (not electronic) SIMs—are transforming the way we stay connected while travelling abroad. No more fiddling with pins or dealing with foreign SIM kiosks. These with a few simple taps on your phone, you’re online. It’s seamless, secure, and way more flexible.
The rise of eSIM tech has sparked something of a gold rush. Dozens (In fact hundreds) of companies now offer international data plans via eSIM, and while that’s great for competition, it also makes it much harder to choose the right one. Enter eSIM Plus, a lesser-known but surprisingly feature-rich provider offering not just global data, but also virtual phone numbers—all managed through a slick app.
So, is eSIM Plus the one to trust with your mobile life abroad in 2025? Let’s dive in.
The Broke Backpacker is supported by you. Clicking through our links may earn us a small affiliate commission, and that's what allows us to keep producing free content 🙂 Learn more.
What is eSIM Plus?
eSIM Plus is a travel-focused telecom provider that offers international data packages and virtual phone numbers via eSIM. It’s built for global travelers by global travellers. Whether you’re a digital nomad, a remote worker, or just someone who wants mobile data for a wee holiday, they have something for you.
But what sets it apart from the other 1001 sim companies? For starters, there’s no physical SIM involved. Everything is managed digitally through their app. You can pay with crypto, top up your data whenever you like, and even tack on a virtual number that lets you make or receive SMS and phone calls—handy for 2FA codes, local contact numbers, or business needs.
Plus, they also offer 24/7 customer support, which is more than you can say for some cheaper providers.
How It Works
Getting started with eSIM Plus is surprisingly easy, even if you’re new to eSIMs. Here’s how it goes:
- Download the eSIM Plus app (iOS/Android).
- Sign up and choose your plan – global, regional, or country-specific.
- Install the eSIM – you can scan a QR code or use in-app installation (if your device supports it).
- (Optional) Add a virtual phone number if you need SMS/calling capabilities.
- Make sure your phone is unlocked and eSIM-compatible (most newer iPhones, Pixels, and Samsungs are).
Once installed, your data kicks in as soon as you land. No need to hunt for Wi-Fi at the airport and no need to wait in line at the overpriced kiosk.
Pricing and Coverage
eSIM Plus offers a wide range of coverage options including a worldwide plan, regional plans (like Europe or SE Asia), and specific country plans. It also supports unlimited-duration accounts with a minimum €5 top-up—a refreshing model if you don’t want to keep buying new plans every time.
eSIM Plus positions itself as a premium, more stable service, especially for those who want something they can rely on for long stretches or across multiple countries. They also offer virtual numbers….
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Virtual Numbers – A Bonus or Gimmick?
One of the standout features of eSIM Plus is its virtual phone number service. This gives you a secondary number (in select countries) that can:
- Receive and send SMS
- Make and receive calls
- Serve as a local number for business or verifications
This can be incredibly useful if you’re abroad but need to maintain a number in your home country—or if you need a local number to access deliveries, banks, or ride-hailing apps.
That said, it’s not perfect. Virtual numbers aren’t available for every country, and there have been delivery delays reported in some regions, especially with SMS verification codes.
So while it is a neat bonus, maybe don’t rely on it for mission-critical tasks unless you’ve tested it first.
User Experience
The eSIM Plus app is well-reviewed and very user-friendly. Most users say setup is painless, and managing plans is intuitive. There’s no clutter — just a clean interface showing your plan, data usage, and account balance.
Customer support is a strong plus point here. While many budget eSIM providers offer no live help, eSIM Plus offers round-the-clock support, including live chat in the app.
On Trustpilot, they’ve earned a solid 4.5 out of 5.
Pros and Cons
- Easy setup via QR code or app
- Works in 150+ countries
- Optional virtual numbers for SMS and calling
- Accepts crypto payments
- 24/7 customer support
- Virtual numbers not available everywhere
- Must have an eSIM-compatible, unlocked device
- No calling/SMS on data-only eSIMs
Is eSIM Plus Right for You?
eSIM Plus is a great option if you:
- Travel frequently or work remotely
- Need a long-term, stable global eSIM
- Want a second number for business or verifications
- Prefer managing everything through an app with real support
- Don’t mind paying a bit more
It might not be ideal for budget backpackers or people who only travel occasionally and want ultra-cheap, country-specific plans. But for those who prioritize reliability, flexibility, and premium features, it’s definitely a strong contender in a busy market place.
Final Verdict
Image: Nic Hilditch-Short
Ok so eSIM Plus isn’t trying to be the cheapest eSIM provider out there—but that is the point. It’s built for travelers who want stability, easy app-based control, and bonus features like virtual numbers and crypto payments.
It may not be for everyone, but if you’re the type of person who likes to travel light and stay connected without stress, it’s worth a look. Start small—maybe top up €5, test it on your next trip, and see how it performs.
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