100 Dumb US Laws (With Proof They Exist)
Airalo is a mobile app that allows you to get an eSIM card and 1 GB of data in the USA (or anywhere else) for as little as $1.500 even before you land. There’s no need to visit a physical store or swap out your SIM card. Airalo works as an eSIM; you simply select your desired package in the app, pay for it, and activate it with just a few clicks. I have been using Airalo on my travels for several years, and in this article, I share my experience.
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Table of Contents
How Airalo eSIM Works and Why You Should Use It
Having constant internet access while traveling is essential nowadays, whether you’re booking accommodations on the fly or using ride-sharing services like Uber. In the past, I used to buy a prepaid SIM card at the airport upon arrival whenever I traveled outside the EU. While it worked, I always had to carry a SIM ejector tool, and in some countries, prepaid packages were unnecessarily expensive. With Airalo, these issues are a thing of the past.
💡 How Airalo eSIM Works
The Airalo app offers virtual SIM cards for over 200 countries and regions worldwide. You can purchase a SIM card for a specific country (USA), a particular region (such as North America), or a global plan. Airalo does not operate its own mobile network but instead partners with leading local carriers. In many countries, two types of eSIMs are available.
The first option is data-only, which must be used within a specified number of days (usually 7, 15, or 30). The second option is a comprehensive package that includes a limited number of minutes for calls and SMS messages. Personally, I always opt for the data-only eSIM as I use internet-based apps for communication.
You simply install the Airalo app, purchase your chosen data package, and activate the eSIM upon arrival. Your phone will connect to the local network, allowing you to use mobile data immediately.
👍 Why Airalo Is Worth Using
You can purchase and manage your eSIM and data packages conveniently through the app. There’s no need to hunt for a mobile carrier store or physically replace anything in your phone. If you run out of data, you can easily top up directly within the app.
Airalo operates in more than 200 countries. If you frequently visit a particular destination, you can keep the eSIM installed and simply purchase a new data pack for your next visit.
❓ Does My Phone Support eSIM?
To use Airalo, your phone must support virtual SIM cards (eSIM). Most modern smartphones produced in recent years have this feature. To check, dial *#06# on your device. If an “EID” code appears among the displayed information, your phone supports eSIM technology, meaning you can use Airalo.
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Airalo eSIM Data Pricing
The price of an Airalo eSIM depends on the selected country, the partner mobile carrier, and the data allowance. Generally, the larger the package you buy, the longer the validity period. Additionally, the cost per 1 GB of data typically decreases as the package size increases.
🏷️ Current Airalo eSIM Pricing 2026
To check the latest data package prices, the easiest way is to install the Airalo mobile app. You don’t need to make a purchase to view the current rates. For reference, here are some sample plans for different countries. Prices were last updated on January 1, 2026.
Country Carrier Data Volume Validity Period Price USA Change 1 GB 7 days $4.50 USA Change 2 GB 15 days $8 USA Change 3 GB 30 days $11 USA Change 5 GB 30 days $16 USA Change 10 GB 30 days $26 USA Change 20 GB 30 days $42 Canada Tuque Mobile 1 GB 7 days $6 Canada Tuque Mobile 5 GB 30 days $18 Global Discover 1 GB 7 days $9 Global Discover 20 GB 365 days $69 ⭐ Saily eSIM With Unlimited Data in the USA
Saily eSIM, a competing service that operates on the same principle as Airalo, often offers even more competitive prices on data packages.
For example, an eSIM for the USA with a 1 GB data package valid for 7 days is currently available for just $3.99. A larger 5 GB package valid for 30 days is sold for $13.99, and the price of a Saily eSIM with unlimited data in the USA for 15 days is $49.99.
Using Saily is straightforward: simply download the app, install the eSIM, and purchase your package. Upon arrival in the USA, the eSIM activates automatically. Saily is available in over 200 countries worldwide, with global plans also available.
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How to Buy Mobile Data with Airalo eSIM
The initial setup takes approximately 10 minutes, but after that, topping up is effortless. I recommend setting up Airalo a few days before your departure. While the eSIM usually only activates upon connecting to a network in the destination country, some countries require additional identity verification, which can take a day or two to process.
1️⃣ Download and Install the Airalo App
To use Airalo, your phone must support eSIM. If your device is incompatible, the app will prevent you from purchasing a package, ensuring you don’t waste money.
The Airalo app is available for both Android and iOS and can be downloaded via the link below. As a bonus, you’ll receive a $3 discount on your first purchase. This means a 1 GB data package for the USA can cost you as little as $1.500.
2️⃣ Create a User Account
After installing the app, create your account and link a payment method. I recommend using Revolut or Wise, as they provide significantly better exchange rates than traditional banks.
Note that an Airalo eSIM is tied to a specific device, so a purchased package cannot be transferred to a different phone once installed.
3️⃣ Select and Purchase a Data Package
On the app’s home screen, search for the country you are visiting to see the available options. If you are planning a multi-country trip, a Regional or Global eSIM might be more cost-effective. A Regional eSIM works across North America, while a Global eSIM covers approximately 125 countries.
When choosing a package, consider your trip duration. The most affordable plans typically last for seven days, so for a two-week trip, you may need a larger package or a 30-day plan.
Think about your data needs as well. For basic tasks like hotel searches, reading news, and navigation, roughly 250 MB per day is usually sufficient. To conserve data, I recommend disabling cloud backups, automatic app updates, and high-definition video streaming.
4️⃣ Activate Your eSIM
Once you’ve purchased a package, you need to install and activate the eSIM. The app provides a guided process that automates most of the setup. Even during my first time, I found it very intuitive.
You can have multiple eSIMs stored on one phone, which is perfect for frequent travelers. While you can store many, usually only one or two can be active simultaneously.
For certain countries, identity verification is mandatory. You may need to upload a copy of your passport within the app. This is a standard regulatory requirement; the verification is handled by trusted providers, and your data is encrypted.
Because verification can take several hours, it’s best to complete the purchase a few days before you fly.
⚠️ Internet Connection Required for Activation
You must have an active internet connection (Wi-Fi or your home data) to install and activate the eSIM. I typically do this at home or at the airport before departure. The validity period usually doesn’t start until the eSIM connects to a supported network in the destination country. You can verify the specific “Activation Policy” in the app under the package details.
5️⃣ eSIM Connects Automatically Upon Arrival
While you can set up the eSIM before you leave, data will only start working once you land and the phone connects to a local partner network. Don’t be concerned if it doesn’t show a connection while you’re still at your home airport. For instance, when I landed in New York, my phone automatically connected to T-Mobile USA and started working instantly.
6️⃣ Monitor Your Data Usage
You can track your remaining data in real-time within the Airalo app. If you’re running low, you can buy a “Top Up” package, which usually costs the same as the initial purchase and doesn’t require installing a new eSIM.
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My Airalo Review: What Worked Best for Me
Your experience with Airalo will depend on your data habits. Do you prefer to conserve data, or do you want to browse without limits? I tend to be mindful of my usage, and these tips have helped me make the most of my plans. I’d love to hear your own tips in the comments below.
🎁 Get a $3 Discount on Your First Purchase
By signing up for Airalo through the link below, you’ll receive a $3 credit toward your first eSIM. This discount is applied to your new account. You can effectively get 1 GB of USA data for seven days for just $1.500.
To ensure you receive the credit, make sure the promo code “PETR7251” is entered during registration.
♻️ Airmoney Loyalty Program
Every Airalo user is automatically enrolled in the Airmoney program. You earn a percentage of every purchase back as credit (cashback), which you can apply to future eSIMs. The cashback starts at 5%, and once you spend a total of $200, your membership level increases, allowing you to earn up to 10% back.
💰 How to Save Data Abroad
Even with a generous data plan, it’s wise to be efficient. My primary phone plan has unlimited data at home, so my phone usually backs up photos to the cloud automatically. When traveling with an eSIM, I switch cloud backups to “Wi-Fi Only” to avoid burning through my data allowance, as photos and videos are the largest data consumers.
Another great tip is to download offline maps in Google Maps before you leave. You can also download your favorite Netflix shows or YouTube videos for offline viewing while at the hotel.
⛔ Why I Usually Skip Calling and SMS Packages
In many regions, Airalo offers plans that include a local phone number with minutes and SMS. For most travelers, this isn’t necessary.
Traditional SMS is largely replaced by WhatsApp or iMessage. If I absolutely need to call a local landline or business, I use Skype with a small amount of pre-paid credit. This works out much cheaper and is something I only need to do once or twice a year.
⚠️ eSIMs Are Single-Installation Only
It is important to remember that most eSIMs can only be installed once. If you delete the eSIM profile from your phone settings, you cannot reinstall it and will lose any remaining data. Most modern phones allow you to keep multiple eSIMs installed and simply toggle them “On” or “Off” as needed.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Airalo
Can I Share Data from an Airalo eSIM via Hotspot?
Yes, hotspot sharing (tethering) is supported on most Airalo eSIMs.If you are traveling with friends or family, one person can buy a larger data package and share the connection. This is also useful for connecting a laptop to the internet. Just keep in mind that multiple devices will deplete your data allowance much faster.
Does Airalo eSIM Support 5G Connectivity?
Yes, but it depends on the specific package and local network availability.Airalo supports 5G in many destinations. You can check this by opening the package details in the app and looking at the “Network” section. If the local partner carrier provides 5G to Airalo users, it will be clearly listed there.
How Is an eSIM Better Than a Physical SIM Card?
The primary advantage is convenience. You don’t have to wait for a SIM to arrive in the mail or find a store in a foreign city. You can stay connected the moment you land, and you don’t risk losing your primary physical SIM card since it stays safely inside your phone.Will I Get a Local Phone Number with Airalo?
Only if you choose a “Data, Calls & Text” plan.Standard data-only plans do not come with a phone number. If you specifically need to receive traditional phone calls or SMS, ensure you select a package that explicitly includes these features.
Does Airalo Offer Long-Term Plans?
Airalo focuses on short-to-medium-term travel. However, the “Discover” Global eSIM is an excellent long-term option, offering up to 20 GB of data valid for 365 days. This is ideal for digital nomads or frequent travelers visiting many different countries over the course of a year.
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