Traveling is fun, but staying online when you’re abroad can honestly be a pain. Roaming fees are crazy high, buying local SIMs feels like a hassle, and half the time you don’t even get good network. That’s why Airalo has become popular—it makes the whole thing much simpler with digital eSIMs you can grab right from your phone.
What is Airalo?
Airalo is like a digital store for eSIMs. Instead of swapping little plastic SIM cards, you just buy and install it on your phone in a few clicks. By now (2025), they cover 200+ countries and claim more than 20 million users worldwide. Not bad for a company that only started in 2019.
Products & Services They Offer
Airalo isn’t just one type of plan. They’ve got a few options depending on how and where you travel.
Local eSIMs ~
If you’re going to one country, this is usually the cheapest. For example, you can grab 5GB just for Spain and that’s it.
Regional eSIMs ~
If you’re the type who crosses borders a lot, these plans save you the hassle of buying a new SIM in every stop.You can use a single eSIM to stay connected across entire regions like Europe, Asia, or Latin America, so there’s no need to switch—it just keeps working as you travel.
Global e SIM
Perfect for frequent travelers who hop between countries and even continents. A single global eSIM keeps you connected in over 120 countries without the hassle of changing anything.
Discovery+ Plan ~
This one’s more advanced. Besides data, you get a phone number, calls, and texts in about 130 places. Handy if you don’t want to depend only on WhatsApp.
Top-Ups & Refills ~
Instead of buying a brand new plan, you can just add more data to your eSIM when it’s low.
Rewards & Credits
Airalo gives small perks like referral bonuses or credits you can use next time, which helps if you’re a frequent traveler.
How It Works
Pretty simple:
- Download the Airalo app or go to their website.
- Search for your destination.
- Pick how much data and how long you want it.
- Buy, scan the QR code, or activate directly on your phone.
- Land at your destination and switch it on.
Most plans are data only, so if you need a number for calls and SMS, either grab Discovery+ or just stick to apps like Skype or WhatsApp.
Pros & Cons
Good stuff:
- Way cheaper compared to traditional roaming in most cases.
- Lots of choices whether you need local, regional, or global coverage.
- Topping up data is quick, so you don’t get cut off in the middle of your trip.
- Works great if you’re crossing borders.
- No fiddling with physical SIM cards.
Not so great:
Discounts sometimes don’t apply everywhere.
- Calls and SMS aren’t included in many plans.
- Speed depends on local networks.
- Some users say it’s not perfect in certain countries.
- Discounts sometimes don’t apply everywhere.
Discounts & Offers (2025)
Airalo often shares promo codes. Here’s what’s active now:
- TRAVELDEALZ – 15% off any plan.
- CYBERNEWS – 5% off.
- ESIMDB15 – 15% discount (some limits).
- JCB15 / JCB10 – JCB cardholders get 15% first, then 10% later.
- MASTERCARD15 – Up to 15% off with Mastercard.
- Student Beans – Students can unlock 20% off.
- Referral codes – Example: SIMPACKERS15 for 15%.
- New users – Verified 15% off your first plan.
Some sites even claim 50–60% off, but not all of them are legit. Always check the fine print.
Tips for Travelers
- Make sure your phone supports eSIM and is unlocked.
- Better to activate before flying, so you don’t stress at the airport.
- Use Wi-Fi for heavy stuff like streaming or downloads.
- Keep track of data and top up before it’s gone.
- Compare local vs. regional vs. global plans for best value.
- Sign up for their newsletter or follow socials for fresh promo codes.
Final Word
Airalo makes life easier if you travel a lot. No more overpriced roaming, no more SIM card drama. It won’t always be perfect (especially if you need calls), but for data on the go, it’s one of the best services out there in 2025.