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There was a time (and not all that long ago…) when going “off the grid” was an integral part of traveling. You said goodbye at the airport, maybe fired off a postcard or two, and resurfaced when the tan faded with a bunch of cool stories (ones you talk over a beer…not Instagram ones).
But today? Well if you’re not online, you’re basically invisible.
Whether you’re chasing Wi-Fi across Southeast Asia or working remotely from a beach shack in Mexico, staying connected is no longer optional — it’s essential to getting travel done. This is where eSIMs come in, and eTravelSim is one of the players promising seamless, stress-free data no matter where you are.
So, what’s the deal with eTravelSim? Is it a legit, decent option for travelers in 2025, or just another techy headache waiting to happen?,
Let’s dig into the good, the bad, and the data-hungry.
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.
Who Are eTravelSim?
The eSim market is seriously busy right now so lets just take a second to examine who eTravelsim are and why they are worth knowing about.
eTravelSim is a global eSIM provider headquartered in Singapore. They offer seamless and cost effective data packages in over 190 countries. They market themselves as a fast, simple, easy solution for travelers who want to land in a new country and have mobile data sorted in minutes — without changing SIMs or dealing with mobile stores abroad.
They’ve been steadily gaining ground, and their plans are especially tempting for folks doing multi-country trips or long-term travel.
How Does eTravelSim Work?
Getting started with eTravelSim is really quick and easy. Firstly, either visit their website or install their app onto your phone (and personally I recommend getting the app).
Then…
- Choose your destination or region (they have single-country and global plans).
- Choose and buy a plan (payment is quick and easy)
- Receive a QR code by email or in app (instantly).
- Scan the QR code on your phone (make sure your phone is unlocked and eSIM-compatible).
- Boom — you’re connected.
See how easy that is? eTravelSim offers Instant eSIM Activation – Right from the eTravelSIM App. No QR codes. No hassle. Just tap and connect.
That said, do note that the Sim won’t actually activate until you land in your destination country, but you are free to choose, buy and install the eSim package before you fly. In fact we highly recommend that you do.
Where Can You Use It?
Image: Nic Hilditch-Short
Oh Boy. Pretty much wherever you are going, eTravelSim will have you covered. They now provide packages for over 190 countries — including heavy-hitters like:
- United States
- United Kingdom
- Australia
- France
- Italy
- India
- Thailand
- UAE
- South Africa
They even offer a sim Package for Russia although I grant that you may not quite fancy visiting at this moment in time. You can also buy regional packages like Europe, Asia, or Global if you’re doing a multi-stop trip.
Does eTravel Sim Offer Local Phone Numbers?
Yes — but not with every plan.
One of the more unique features of eTravelSim, and one that sets them apart from their competitors, is that a number of their plans include a local phone number, typically from the UK or USA, depending on the package.
This can be super handy if you need to:
- Receive SMS verification codes (for banking apps, etc.)
- Take local calls from hotels, taxis, or delivery services
- Have a reachable number without relying on WhatsApp or Messenger
In our experience, eTravesim is one of the only providers who offer;
?? Mobile numbers
?? Free incoming calls
?? Outgoing calling minutes in 40+ countries
That said, not all of their plans include this. You’ll need to check the plan description carefully — voice and SMS services are usually limited to specific destinations and often come at a slightly higher price point.
If you’re just data-hungry, the data-only plans are cheaper and perfectly suitable for maps, social, emails, and calls via WhatsApp or FaceTime.
Cost: Is eTravelSim Good Value?
The cost of eSims has dropped quite substantially since they first became available a few years ago and prices are frequently becoming increasingly competitive.
Of course, eTravelSims prices vary depending a number of variables such as where you are going, package duration, data allowance and whether or not you want a phone number. However, do offer unlimited data for 7 days in top destinations like the UK, Europe, USA, Turkey, Australia, Singapore and many other countries. Most of these plans also include calling options.
Then looking at their International Global Flex 365 by eTravelSIM for example, it offers travellers the opportunity to stay connected worldwide with up to 50 GB of data across 60+ countries — valid for 365 days making it exceptional value. This one is perfect for globetrotters, digital nomads, and frequent flyers.
The table below offers a few further examples of different packages along with prices.
A Few Examples of eTravelsim Packages
| Destination | Days | Data (GB) | Price (£) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Global | 6 | 15 | 41 |
| Thailand | 10 | 50 | 7 |
| Spain | 30 | 10 | 10 |
| Europe | 30 | 10 | 12 |
Personally, I find their packages to be very reasonably priced amongst eSim providers.
Pros & Cons of eTravelSim
- Instant delivery: QR code lands in your inbox in minutes.
- In app management – You can check your balance and top up easily inside the app.
- Easy setup: If you can use a QR code, you can use eTravelSim.
- 24/7 Customer Support – via Email/ Whatsapp/ Chat/ Voice. No bots & No AI.
- Some data routed internationally: Slower speeds depending on where you’re connecting.
- Mixed customer service reviews: Some users report slow or canned replies during issues. This happens with other eSim providers though.
- Not always the cheapest: Local SIMs are still cheaper in many regions.
Final Thoughts – Is eTravelSim Worth It?
Hell Yes! If you’re after global, no-fuss data, then eTravelSim is an absolutely solid choice in 2025. It’s definitely not the most polished platform (see Jetpac for this), but it works and its a very good value, pretty cheap eSim operator. You’ll get connected quickly, stay online, and avoid the SIM card circus at every airport.
Plus, some packages include phone numbers which is great and really sets them apart.
Would I use it again? Absolutely I would.
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