Last updated on May 23rd, 2023 at 09:25 pm
Traveling to the UK can be an exciting adventure, but staying connected during your trip is essential. UK eSIMs offer a convenient and affordable way to stay connected without the hassle of buying a physical SIM card. In this guide, we’ll compare Holafly and Airalo, two popular eSIM providers for the UK, to help you choose the perfect plan for your needs.
Related Travel Guides
Book Your Travel Insurance
You can read Heymondo Vs Safetwing cheapest travel Insurance. You can get for $135 USD your Heymondo Travel Insurance with Heymondo discount code valid for 90 days. Read our full Heymondo Travel Insurance Review
You can get Safetywing Travel Insurance for Digital Nomads valid for 28 days Safetywing for $50 USD per month with kids until 10 years old included
Where to Stay When in the UK
Check the map below and browse for the best deals on accommodations for the UK.
What is a UK eSIM?
A UK eSIM is a digital SIM card designed specifically for use in the United Kingdom. It allows you to access mobile data without the need for a physical SIM card, making it a popular choice for international travelers. eSIMs offer several benefits, including the ability to switch between providers and plans easily, no roaming fees or international charges, and the option to maintain your primary phone number while using a secondary data plan.
Best UK eSIM Compared: Comparing Holafly and Airalo for UK eSIM
Holafly UK eSIM
Holafly UK eSIM Plans
5 GB for 15 days for $22 USD Unlimited data for 30 days for $45 USD (with a discount code) Coverage: Nationwide, including major cities and tourist destinations Network: Utilizes the EE network
Airalo UK eSIM
Airalo UK eSIM Plans
1 GB for 7 days for $6 USD 3 GB for 30 days for $14 USD (with a discount code) Coverage: Nationwide, including major cities and tourist destinations Network: Utilizes the O2 network
Comparison of Holafly and Airalo UK eSIM Plans
Holafly offers two UK eSIM plans: 5 GB of data for 15 days at $22 USD and an unlimited data plan for 30 days at $45 USD. These plans are ideal for travelers looking for more extensive data allowances or those who plan to stay in the UK for an extended period.
Airalo, on the other hand, offers two eSIM plans for the UK: 1 GB of data for 7 days at $6 USD and 3 GB of data for 30 days at $14 USD. These plans are more budget-friendly and better suited for travelers with lower data usage needs or shorter trips.
While both providers offer nationwide coverage and utilize reputable networks (EE for Holafly and O2 for Airalo), Airalo is the better affordable data while Holafly is the choice for unlimited data.
MAYA ESIM FOR EUROPE
Europe+ eSIM Plan
See the plan prices below:
- 1 GB for 30 days for $5 USD
- 3 GB for 30 days for $9 USD
- 5 GB for 30 days for $14 USD
- 10 GB for 30 days for $24 USD
- Europe Unlimited Data for 30 Days for $49 USD
Check Maya eSIM data packages and our detailed Maya eSIM review
Activating Your UK eSIM
After purchasing a UK eSIM from either Holafly or Airalo, you’ll receive a QR code via email. Scan the code using your phone’s camera to activate the eSIM and access your data plan. Note that eSIMs typically only provide data services, so you’ll need to rely on apps like WhatsApp or Telegram for voice and text communication.
Compatibility and Requirements
Before purchasing a UK eSIM, ensure that your device supports eSIM functionality and is unlocked to use eSIM services from different providers. eSIMs are compatible with newer devices like the iPhone XR and later or Samsung Galaxy S20 and later.
Tips for Using Your UK eSIM
- Conserve data by turning off automatic updates and background app refresh
- Use offline maps or download maps for the areas you’ll visit
- Connect to Wi-Fi in hotels, cafes, or public areas when possible
- Regularly monitor your data usage to avoid running out of data during your trip
- Carry a portable battery pack to keep your phone charged while using data-intensive apps
Alternatives to eSIMs in the UK
If your device isn’t eSIM compatible or you prefer a physical SIM card, you can still purchase a local SIM card upon arrival in the UK.
Popular providers include EE, O2, Vodafone, and Three. These providers offer various plans and data allowances, but you’ll need to consider the additional steps of purchasing and swapping out SIM cards.
Staying Connected in the UK: Pocket Wi-Fi
Renting a pocket Wi-Fi device is another option for staying connected during your UK trip. These portable hotspots provide internet access for multiple devices and can be rented at airports or ordered online before your trip.
Popular pocket Wi-Fi providers in the UK include Tep Wireless, Travel Wi-Fi, and My Webspot. While pocket Wi-Fi can be convenient, it may be more expensive than an eSIM, and you’ll need to return the device at the end of your trip.
Check our favorite pocket Wi-Fi device, GlocalMe.
Final Thoughts on UK eSIM and Which One to Choose – Holafly vs Airalo
With so much to see and do in the UK, staying connected is crucial. Our top pick for a UK eSIM depends on your data usage and trip duration. If you need a budget-friendly option for a short trip, consider Airalo’s 1 GB for 7 days at $6 USD. For longer trips or more data, Holafly’s 5 GB for 15 days at $22 USD or unlimited data for 30 days at $45 USD might be the better choice.
We hope this guide has provided you with the information you need to make an informed decision about your UK eSIM. Enjoy your trip, and stay connected!