Running out of data when travelling can be a huge headache.
Suddenly, you’re lost and can’t use maps. Or you might need to download a PDF ticket, grab a taxi at night, or even just get in touch with friends or family.
Whatever you rely on the internet for when travelling, knowing your connection won't suddenly cut out can make or break your travels. This is where having an unlimited eSIM comes in handy.
This guide explains what an unlimited data eSIM is, how it works, important points to consider (including fair usage), and how it can solve your real-life travel challenges.
Jump To:
👉 Why use an unlimited data eSIM on your travels?
👉 How much data do you need when travelling?
👉 Do eSIMs with unlimited data have any restrictions?
👉 Things to consider before buying eSIMs with unlimited data
👉 How to download and activate an unlimited eSIM
Snap, scroll, stream, repeat: An unlimited eSIM lets you enjoy your trip without counting megabytes. Check out your options here.
What Is An Unlimited eSIM?
Unlimited eSIMs are digital versions of SIM cards that are already built into your phone.
They give you unlimited mobile data in a specific country or region, for a fixed period of time. And you can always renew or top up if you need data for more days.
That means you won't need to research, queue for, and swap your plastic SIM card to get the best data deals when abroad.
You can install unlimited eSIMs in minutes and activate them when you land, for an instant internet connection.
That way, you arrive ready to map, message, translate and book taxis before you’ve even left the airport.
Unlimited eSIMs also remove the worry of being charged extortionate rates for data roaming abroad, preventing you from coming home to huge bills for data usage you didn't even realise you'd used.
Why Use an Unlimited Data eSIM on Your Travels?
There's a lot to think about and organise before travelling abroad. And most travellers don't know, and don't want to think about, exactly how many gigabytes they'll need for their entire trip.
Unlimited data eSIMs remove that mental load so you can focus on making the most of your time abroad.
How Unlimited Data eSIMs Can Level Up Your Travels
- Affordability: You decide how much data you buy and use, and where to use it. With generous allowances and firm limits, there's no chance of accidental overspending or surprise roaming bills. If you need more data, you can top up easily.
- Convenience: Install it over secure Wi-Fi (e.g. at home) and activate it when you land. Using dual SIM mode, you can keep your existing phone number on your physical SIM for calls and use your eSIM for data.
- Functionality: You can use your device as a hotspot and connect to fast 4G/5G networks where they're available.
- Simplicity: No counting gigabytes and worrying about how much data you've used. You can map, message, browse, use social media, and stream movies just like you would at home.
Check Your Data Balance Easily: If you want to keep an eye on your usage, you can quickly check your remaining data balance in the Airalo app.
Can I Hotspot With Unlimited eSIMs?
Another advantage of unlimited eSIMs is that you can easily use your device as a hotspot.
Bear in mind that different eSIM providers set their own terms. Many restrict how much hotspotting you can do in a day, e.g, to around 500 MB.
With an Airalo unlimited data eSIM however, there's no limit to how much you can hotspot.
You can tether as many devices as you like for as long as you like on our unlimited data eSIM packages.
How Much Data Do You Need When Travelling?
No one plans their holidays in gigabytes; they plan experiences.
Still, having an idea of your typical data usage helps, as it allows you to know what you’re in for and whether getting an unlimited eSIM is more beneficial than paying roaming fees.
The ranges below provide general guidance on how much data one might use for specific activities, with the assumption that you're using 4G or stable Wi-Fi at a mid-range connection speed of around 20 megabits per second.
- 2 hours of scrolling TikTok: 1.6 GB
- 45-minute HD Zoom call: 1.1 GB
- 1 hour of SD Netflix: 0.7 - 1 GB
- 30-minute FaceTime or WhatsApp video call: 90 - 240 MB
- Uploading 50 holiday pictures to Facebook: 125 - 250 MB
- 1.5 hours of music streaming: 60 - 225 MB
- 45-minute podcast: 30 - 110 MB
- 20 minutes using a map app with live navigation: 3 - 10 MB
Note: Your actual data consumption will vary depending on app settings, video quality, and network conditions.
What's The Difference Between Using 3GB a Day And 5GB a Day?
This is like asking "how long is a piece of string?", and the answer is that it can be as long as you wish it to be. Similarly, every traveller has different itineraries, devices, and data needs.
Nonetheless, below is a rough sketch of what light vs heavy internet usage might look like.
Daily Data Usage by User and Traveller Type
Light Users
- Data needs: Relying mostly on Wi-Fi, light users dip into mobile data for basics like checking emails, messaging, occasional web browsing, and using maps for short trips.
- Average daily mobile data usage: Up to 0.5 GB a day.
Example Light User: Solo Weekend Traveller
A solo traveller on a weekend break, mostly relying on hotel or café Wi-Fi. They only switch to mobile data to check maps and timetables, message friends, or look up restaurant reviews. Their daily usage is light, usually around 0.3 - 0.5 GB a day.
Moderate Users
- Data needs: Moderate users are active on their phones and may not always have consistent Wi-Fi access. They regularly browse and post on social media, stream music or podcasts and rely on maps and navigation apps.
- Average daily mobile data usage: Around 0.5 - 1.5 GB a day.
Example Moderate User: A Couple on a City Break
A couple on a city break. They use map apps throughout the day, check restaurant reviews and city guides, post photos and videos on social media and make short video calls home. They're likely to go through around 0.8 - 1 GB a day each.
Heavy Users
- Data needs: Heavy users might rely on mobile data for entertainment or work. They'll likely stream films, videos and TV shows, post high-resolution photos, make long video calls and use their phone as a hotspot for other devices.
- Average daily mobile data usage: Between 1.5 - 3 GB a day.
Example Heavy User: Family on a Two-Week Holiday
A family on holiday, including two teenagers streaming YouTube and gaming while parents use maps and tether to iPads. Each device could get through 3 - 3.5 GB a day.
On the whole, most travellers fall into the light-to-moderate data users range, comfortably using well under 3 GB a day.
This means they’re unlikely to exceed the typical daily allowance of an unlimited data eSIM.
Do eSIMs With Unlimited Data Have Any Restrictions?
This is a vital question to ask when you're deciding between various eSIMs with unlimited data. Most are usually subject to a fair usage policy.
At Airalo, we make these fair use details clear upfront, so you know how your plan works before you start using it.
What Does Fair Usage Mean With Unlimited Data eSIMs?
Fair usage basically this means that your eSIM provider will set a limit on the amount of data you can use within a given timeframe, typically 24 hours.
If you hit that limit within that time, they will slow down, or throttle, your internet speeds. This makes it difficult to carry out data-hungry tasks like watching films, making video calls or playing games.
Once that window resets, for example at midnight local time, your connection will go back to its normal speed.
Why Do eSIM Providers Throttle Your Data?
This is their way of ensuring that data usage doesn't reach unmanageable levels and that they can continue to offer unlimited eSIM packages to a wide audience.
Will I be Affected by Unlimited eSIM Fair Usage Policies?
The good news is that data caps are usually set well above what the average traveller uses in a day.
At Airalo, we offer unlimited eSIMs with clear fair use guidelines. As a result, most travellers remain aware of any limits and shouldn’t notice or feel any slowdown during their trip.
Unlimited eSIM Data Caps, Speed Limits and What to Look Out For
This is where choosing the right eSIM provider makes all the difference.
At Airalo, we’re upfront about how our unlimited packages work, including fair use policies and speed management.
We want you to know exactly what to expect before you buy, so there are no surprises. Just a data plan that suits your travel needs with clear information from the start.
Before you purchase an Airalo unlimited data package, a message appears to let you know that we only slow speeds on unlimited packages after you’ve used 3GB in a 24-hour period.
After this point, your speeds will come down to 1Mbps, before resetting right after midnight.
What Can I Do With 3GB a Day?
With 3GB a day, you can comfortably stream, scroll, call, and browse with a healthy buffer left. For most travellers, that's more than enough to cover a busy day on the go.
Not counting the things you do over Wi-Fi, in a single day you can:
- Stream a Netflix episode in HD, plus a few YouTube clips.
- Scroll social media for an hour or two, posting photos and updates.
- Use maps, send messages, check emails, and make a short video call.
What Can I Do at Reduced Speeds?
If your data cap is 3GB a day and you exceed it only to find your speeds are reduced to 1 Mbps, your unlimited eSIM will still keep you connected for essentials.
But for heavy stuff like binge-watching or smooth TikTok scrolling, you'll have to wait until the midnight reset.
- Works fine: Sending and receiving texts via. WhatsApp or iMessages, emailing with small attachments, browsing simple web pages, using a maps app.
- Works, but slower: Image-heavy social feeds, downloading apps and files, lower-quality video calls.
- Not ideal: HD/4K streaming, and uploading and downloading large files.
Is There A Limit to Hotspotting With an Unlimited eSIM?
When you're travelling, you might want to share your connection with other devices. Whether that's a work laptop, a tablet for streaming, or the kids' iPads during screen time.
Some unlimited eSIM providers restrict hotspotting and cap hotspot usage at around 500 MB per day. That's only enough for:
- About 30 minutes of HD video streaming, or
- A short Zoom call, or
- Downloading a handful of apps or songs.
You won't be faced with hotspotting limits with Airalo unlimited data plans. You're free to tether as much as you like and treat your phone like a travel Wi-Fi hub for your whole trip.
Things to Consider Before Buying eSIMs With Unlimited Data
From maps to messages, unlimited data means you can use your phone as you would at home, without second-guessing every tap. Explore your options in the Airalo store.
Where and For How Long Will You Need Your Unlimited eSIM?
Unlimited eSIMs are usually sold by country or region for a set length of time.
To get the most value from eSIMs with unlimited data, pick the scope that matches your travel itinerary to avoid overpaying. Some examples include:
- Unlimited eSIMs by country: If you're visiting a few cities in Spain over the space of a week, the seven-day unlimited data eSIM for Spain is an ideal fit.
- Unlimited eSIMs by region: For train-hopping around Europe for ten days, an unlimited eSIM for Europe would be the smartest choice.
How Much Data Will You Use?
The great thing about an unlimited data eSIM is that you can set and forget it before you even fly. Meaning you don't have to worry about going over your allowance or being hit with shock charges. Everything is taken care of automatically.
However, it's important to remember that if you burn through a lot of data in a day, your speeds will slow as you hit your limit. Again, you will always be able to check on your usage in the Airalo app.
Is My eSIM Provider Being Upfront?
When you're choosing an eSIM provider, it's essential to make sure they're trustworthy and transparent about their products. And that you understand their terms and conditions before you buy.
Ideally, your eSIM provider should:
- Communicate eSIM terms and conditions upfront.
- Be trusted and well-rated by other users.
- Offer fast and high-quality customer support.
With Airalo unlimited data plans, you’ll receive this level of care as standard.
How to Download and Activate an Unlimited eSIM
Downloading and activating your unlimited eSIM is designed to be fast and convenient. The whole process can be completed in just a few steps.
Download your eSIM over Wi-Fi: eSIMs can only be downloaded once. Therefore, we always advise doing this over a trusted, secure Wi-Fi connection before you travel.
1.) Check Your Device Is eSIM-Compatible and Network-Unlocked
Check your device's user manual to ensure it's not locked to a network or carrier.
Then make sure your phone, tablet or wearable device is eSIM-compatible using one of these methods.
- iPhone: Go to Settings, then Mobile Data, look for Add eSIM / Add Mobile Data Plan.
- Android: Go to Settings, then Network and Internet, SIMs or SIM manager, then look for the option Add eSIM.
- Dial it in: Alternatively, on either iPhone or Android, dial *#06# and press the call button. If your device is eSIM-compatible, you should be able to view your device's eSIM unique identification number (EID).
- Check the list: You can also look up your model on Airalo's current device compatibility list.
2.) Head To The Store And Choose Your Package
Open the Airalo app or website, pick your destination, then choose your eSIM. Check that the validity period, destination, and amount of data suit your needs.
3.) Follow The eSIM Installation Instructions
You can install your eSIM either directly on your device, via a QR code, or manually. Airalo will guide you on how to do this in-app.
Install Your eSIM
You can install your eSIM using one of these three methods.
- Direct install (in-app): follow the on-screen prompts to add the eSIM line.
- QR code (iOS example): Go to Settings, Mobile Data, then Add eSIM and Use QR Code. Then scan the code from your Airalo eSIM details. Give the line a name of your choice, e.g., Travel.
- Manual installation: Choose Enter Details Manually and paste the SM-DP+ and activation code from your eSIM details.
Then:
- Configure the line: Set the new line as your mobile data line, turn data roaming on and accept the carrier settings/APN, if prompted.
- Activate your eSIM: Once you land, your phone should register on a supported local network automatically.
Pro tip for eSIM Turkey unlimited data: Heading to Turkey? Just a heads up that eSIMs can no longer be downloaded on arrival. To stay connected, please install and activate your eSIM before you arrive. Your Airalo plan will then activate once you land.
Ready To Travel Without Limits?
Now you have everything you need to tap into the advantages of unlimited eSIMs and stay in control of your data on the move.
That means you decide where you buy data for, how much you spend and how much to top up as you go. And saying goodbye to shock roaming bills waiting for you when you get home.
Head to the Airalo store to find your perfect unlimited eSIM package and tick data off your to-do list.
FAQs: Unlimited eSIM Plans, Benefits and How it Works
1. What's an unlimited eSIM?
An unlimited eSIM is a digital SIM that gives you unlimited data for a fixed period of time. Instead of using a physical SIM card, you download it directly to your phone and it works just like your regular data plan.
2. Are unlimited eSIMs subject to any usage restrictions?
Usually, yes, once you use a certain amount of data within a set timeframe your provider will likely slow your internet speeds. You’ll still have internet access, but it will be noticeably slower. After the timeframe resets (typically midnight), your speeds should return to normal.
3. Do unlimited data eSIMs support hotspot/tethering?
No, not all eSIM providers allow unlimited eSIM users to use their devices as hotspots. Or they restrict how much hotspotting you can do. With Airalo, however, there is no limit to hotspotting with an unlimited eSIM.
4. In which countries and regions can I get Airalo unlimited data plans?
Airalo provides unlimited data eSIMs in over 70 countries. These include Italy, Spain, Cyprus, Canada, Turkey, Japan, Thailand and Morocco. Airalo also offers unlimited regional eSIMs in Europe, and Latin America.
5. Does Airalo offer eSIM Europe unlimited data, and which countries are included?
Yes, Airalo offers an eSIM for Europe with Unlimited Data. It covers 42 destinations including Albania, France, Italy, Romania, Switzerland, Turkey, and the UK. For the full list, see here.
6. Can I buy a Latin America eSIM unlimited data?
Yes, Airalo unlimited data plans include a Latin America eSIM. Check the plan page to see which countries it covers and the available validity options.
7. Do unlimited data eSIMs include 5G?
Yes, where 5G is available on local networks, you can access these speeds. Check your eSIM terms and conditions and local network coverage before you buy to ensure 5G has been rolled out in your chosen destination.
8. How do I activate an unlimited eSIM?
Download your eSIM over a trusted Wi-Fi network before you fly. When you land, turn on the eSIM line and enable data/roaming for that line. If needed, toggle lines, reboot and check your APN settings.
