Best eSIM for Southeast Asia? We’ve traveled in Asia far and wide and personally experienced the need for a trusted connection. Based on experience, Airalo eSIM plans start at $5 which is best for affordability, while BNESIM offers so much coverage and speed in Asia. We go into detail about Airalo, BNESIM, and other eSIM brands that offer regional eSIM plans for Asian countries and Southeast Asia.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the top eSIM providers for Southeast Asia, covering pricing, coverage, and other essential factors. Our aim is to help you find the best eSIM to stay connected while exploring the region.
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What is an eSIM and Why You Need One for Southeast Asia
An eSIM (Embedded Subscriber Identity Module) is a virtual SIM card that allows you to connect to multiple mobile networks without the need for a physical SIM. This digital SIM technology is perfect for travelers, as it provides a seamless, hassle-free way to stay connected across different countries. In Southeast Asia, where countries have varying mobile network providers and data plans, an eSIM simplifies the process and allows you to enjoy uninterrupted internet access.
Top eSIM Providers for Southeast Asia
Airalo
Airalo is a popular global eSIM provider that offers a range of affordable data plans for Southeast Asia. With coverage in countries such as Thailand, Vietnam, Indonesia, and Malaysia, Airalo is an excellent choice for travelers exploring the region.
Holafly
Holafly is a reputable eSIM provider that specializes in travel eSIMs. They offer country-specific plans with generous data allowances, making them an attractive option for travelers who want a tailored solution for Southeast Asia.
BNESim
BNESim is a versatile eSIM provider that focuses on global connectivity. They offer coverage in Southeast Asia, with data packages designed for various travel durations and data needs.
Nomad
Nomad, just by the name, promotes itself as the eSIM for the constant traveler. Offering some of the best rates for travel, it’s one of the options you can use for eSIM when in Southeast Asia. Nomad offers flexibility and convenience for those seeking reliable internet access during their trips.
Comparing eSIM Providers: Price, Coverage, and Speed
Here is a comparison table detailing prices, plans, and coverage for the top eSIM providers in Southeast Asia:
When choosing an eSIM provider for Southeast Asia, consider factors such as pricing, coverage, and data speed. We’ve created a comparison table to help you easily evaluate the top eSIM options available.
Provider Countries Covered Data Packages Pricing Unique Features
| Provider | Countries Covered | Data Packages | Pricing | Length of Data Validity |
| Airalo | 12 | 1GB – 10GB | From $5 | from 7 Days to 180 Days |
| Holafly | 12 | 6GB and 10GB Options | From $44 | 15 days (for 6GB) and 30 days (for 10GB) |
| Nomad | 12-15 | 3GB – 5GB | From $13 | 15 Days and 30 Days Options |
| BNESIM | 15+ | From 500MB | From $5 | From 3 Days |
Airalo – Our Choice for Best eSIM for Southeast Asia for Affordability
Ranking as our no. 1 suggested option, Airalo offers 1GB for 7 days at $5 and can rise to only $20 for $5GB for 30 days, giving you a very affordable data option in Southeast Asia. This plan includes Cambodia, China, China (Hong Kong), China (Macao), Indonesia, Japan, Laos, Malaysia, Philippines, South Korea, Taiwan, Thailand, Vietnam.
Holafly – Our Choice for Best eSIM Unlimited Data in Southeast Asia
Holafly Unlimited Data Plan – Southeast Asia Country Specific
Holafly offers UNLIMITED DATA plans in certain Asian countries. In our experience, this is a big relief because you will not have to worry about how much data you’re using while in Southeast Asia. Check the countries below.
Unlimited Data plans start at $19 for 5 Days, and $27 USD for 7 days, $47 for 15 days, and $64 for 30 days up to $99 for 90 days
| Country | Unlimited Data Price and Validity Period |
| Hongkong | Sri Lanka |
| Indonesia (including Bali) | Taiwan |
| Macau | Thailand |
| Malaysia | Vietnam |
| Singapore |
Holafly Regional Asia Plan
With Holafly’s International Travel eSIM for Asia, you get coverage for 12 countries including South Korea, Japan, Cambodia, Vietnam, Thailand, Taiwan, Singapore, Malaysia, Indonesia, Philippines, and Laos.
This plan gives you 6GB data for 15 days for $44. While for 30 days, you can get 10GB for $54. Maximum 500MB/day.
Coverage for this plan includes connections in South Korea, Japan, Cambodia, Vietnam, Thailand, Taiwan, Singapore, Malaysia, Indonesia, Philippines, and Laos.
Nomad Plan – Best Choice for Regional Asia eSIM w/ Most Countries included
Under Nomad’s APAC Regional Plans, Nomad offers a 12-country plan and a 15-country plan eSIM for APAC (Asia Pacific).
12 Countries Plan is at $15 for 5GB, 30 days, and $13 for 3GB, 30 Days. 15 countries plan has a higher GB plan costing $38 for 20GB, 30 days, and down to 3GB for 15 days for $13. See the plans below.
For APAC, Nomad offers a 12-country plan and a 15-country plan. Both plans include:
China, Indonesia, Japan, Malaysia, New Zealand, Philippines, Singapore, South Korea, Sri Lanka, Thailand, and Vietnam.
While the differences are that the 12-country plan includes Australia, however, the 15-country plan doesn’t have Australian support but adds to its support for India, Macao, Taiwan, and Hongkong.
Nomad’s coverage is supported by Truphone.
BNESim – Best Choice for Best ESIM Packages and Deals
A new contender to our lineup of recommended eSIMs, Bnesim gives you 500MB/day of data for 3 days for only $5.99. Coverage includes: Taiwan China, Australia, Hong Kong China, Macau China, Singapore, Malaysia, Myanmar (Currently Blocked), Thailand, USA, Vietnam, Indonesia, New Zealand, Mainland China, Philippines, Sri Lanka, Pakistan, Israel, Russia, India, Turkey, Japan, Kuwait, South Korea, Nigeria, Dominica, Cambodia.
eSIM Coverage Compared
Here’s a comparison of the countries covered by each eSIM provider in Southeast Asia:
| eSIM Provider | Countries Covered |
| Airalo | This plan includes Cambodia, China, China (Hong Kong), China (Macao), Indonesia, Japan, Laos, Malaysia, Philippines, South Korea, Taiwan, Thailand, Vietnam. |
| Holafly | Unlimited Data – Hongkong, Indonesia (with Bali), Macau, Malaysia, Singapore, Taiwan, Thailand, Vietnam Regional Plan – cover for the whole Southeast Asia, including the Philippines, Cambodia and Malaysia and Brunei (no unlimited option for these countries). |
| Nomad | For APAC, Nomad offer a 12-country plan and a 15 country plan. Both plans include: China, Indonesia, Japan, Malaysia, New Zealand, Philippines, Singapore, South Korea, Sri Lanka, Thailand, Vietnam. While the differences are that the 12-country plan includes Australia, however, the 15-country plan doesn’t have Australian support but adds to it support for India, Macao, Taiwan and Hongkong. Nomad’s coverage is supported by Truphone. |
| BNESIM | Taiwan China, Australia, Hong Kong China, Macau China, Singapore, Malaysia, Myanmar (Currently Blocked), Thailand, USA, Vietnam, Indonesia, New Zealand, Mainland China, Philippines, Sri Lanka, Pakistan, Israel, Russia, India, Turkey, Japan, Kuwait, South Korea, Nigeria, Dominica, Cambodia. |
How to Set Up and Use Your eSIM in Southeast Asia
Setting up your eSIM is a straightforward process. Follow these simple steps to activate and use your eSIM in Southeast Asia:
- Ensure your device is eSIM compatible.
- Choose a suitable eSIM provider and purchase a data plan.
- You will receive a QR code or activation code from the provider.
- On your device, navigate to Settings > Mobile Data > Add Data Plan.
- Scan the QR code or enter the activation code provided.
- Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the setup.
- Once activated, your eSIM will automatically connect to the local network in the country you’re visiting.
FAQs – Best eSIM for Southeast Asia
Q: Is my device compatible with eSIM technology?
A: Most newer smartphones and tablets, such as iPhone XR and later, Google Pixel 3 and later, and Samsung Galaxy S21 and later, support eSIM technology. To confirm compatibility, check your device’s specifications or consult the manufacturer.
Q: Can I use my eSIM alongside my regular SIM card?
A: Yes, many eSIM-compatible devices support dual SIM functionality, allowing you to use both your regular SIM and eSIM simultaneously. This can be useful for maintaining your home country number while using an eSIM for data.
Q: What happens if I run out of data on my eSIM plan?
A: Most eSIM providers allow you to top-up your data plan if you run out during your trip. Simply log in to your provider’s website or app and purchase additional data as needed.
Q: Can I share my eSIM data with other devices?
A: Yes, you can use your eSIM-enabled device as a hotspot to share data with other devices, such as laptops or tablets. Be mindful of your data usage, as sharing data may consume it more quickly.
Q: Can I use my eSIM in multiple Southeast Asian countries?
A: Most eSIM providers offer plans that cover multiple countries within the Southeast Asia region. Before purchasing a plan, confirm that it includes coverage for all the countries you plan to visit.
Final Thoughts on Best eSIM for Southeast Asia
With the right eSIM, staying connected while traveling in Southeast Asia is both convenient and affordable. We recommend Airalo, BNESIM, Holafy and Nomad as your top options for eSIM to use in Southeast Asia, with Airalo for best value choice.