If you’re looking for your first eSIM, you’re probably tossing up between Holafly vs. Airalo. They’re the two most well-known options out there. Fortunately for you, I’ve tried both and can give you a rundown of all the main pros and cons to consider before you buy.
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Holafly vs. Airalo at a glance
Here’s how Holafly vs. Airalo stack up when it comes to these main eSIM features.
| Features | Holafly | Airalo |
|---|---|---|
|
Pricing |
Priced per day |
About $4.50/GB |
|
Data Use |
Unlimited |
Max data packages |
|
Refunds |
6-month policy |
Notoriously poor policy |
|
Subscription |
Monthly subscription option |
No |
|
Local Number |
Coming soon for monthly subscriptions |
Option for some locations |
All things considered, Holafly takes the cake. The only real benefit to Airalo is the lower pricing, but I believe you get what you pay for.
Why travelers are switching to eSIMs
Once you try an eSIM, it’s hard to go back to those finnicky little chips. I love landing in a new country and having data instantly. It makes absolutely everything easier, from avoiding scams to navigating unfamiliar streets.
eSIMs are especially great for multi-country trips and short getaways where convenience matters. And, in some cases, extended trips where it makes sense to sign up for a monthly subscription and access data globally.
More and more travelers are making the switch because it’s fast, flexible, and stress-free. I tried my first eSIM in 2023 but I wish I’d known about them sooner. If you’re tossing up between Holafly vs. Airalo (or even another brand) for your next trip, here’s everything you need to know before buying.
All about Holafly
Holafly’s main distinctive feature is its unlimited data packages. Every eSIM (except one subscription option) gives you unlimited access to the internet. You can map, stream, and scroll to your heart’s content. Most even let you hotspot a little — useful if your friend hasn’t downloaded an eSIM yet. (Or if their Airalo one isn’t working 😏)
Holafly eSIM pricing
Holafly’s pricing is based on duration, not usage, since most plans offer unlimited data. The per-day prices vary depending on the country/regional package, but here are a few examples.
- 7 days in Europe (multiple countries) — $30
- 14 days in the US — $48
- 22 days in Japan — $65
- 1 month global access subscription — $65
(Prices are accurate as of July 2025.)
Get 5% off any Holafly eSIM to make them even cheaper! Use the code NAOMILAI (yes, my full human name) in the promo box at check out. Or just by clicking this link.
Or 10% off an Holafly subscription — more on this below.
Holafly key features
The main Holafly benefits you need to know about before deciding between Holafly vs. Airalo:
- Unlimited data
- Monthly subscription option
- Compatible with virtually every modern smartphone
- Get unlimited data in over 200 destinations, including 11 regional plans
- The global plan covers 113 countries
- The Holafly Plans subscription covers over 160 destinations
- 24/7 customer support
- Reasonable refund policy
- Holafly Travel Club with rewards for referrals when your friends join. Every friend = 500 “Holacoins” (5€) discount.
- Perfect for people who use a lot of data
Holafly cons include higher price tag and no local phone number for calls and SMS. (However, their website indicates that the feature is in the works as part of the subscription option.) You can hotspot 500MB to 1GB per day on regular plans, depending on the location. But you can hotspot to your heart’s content with the unlimited subscription.
Holafly Plans subscription model
Holafly Plans is another distinct feature this eSIM company offers. And if you’re traveling for more than a month, it may be perfect for you.
It’s an eSIM subscription just like you’d get for Spotify or Netflix. For a set monthly price, the eSIM will connect to the local network anywhere in the world. This is the only time Holafly doesn’t exclusively do unlimited data plans. If you’re doing a subscription, you can choose from an Unlimited Plan or the Light Plan with 25 GBs max per month.
They’re also working on an “Ultra” Plan, with added features like travel insurance, so I’ll come back to update this article when that’s launched!
Pop my code RUNAWAYTRAVELLER in the promo box when you check out for 10% off every month for the first 12 months.
I’m using the unlimited Holafly Plans subscription, and it’s honestly so great.
For example, I activated it at home in New Zealand before flying to Cape Town via Singapore and Johannesburg.
Because it’s a global eSIM, I had internet access as soon as we landed in Singapore and throughout the layover in Johannesburg too. My partner could also hotspot from my phone when we were still on the tarmac rather than waiting to get inside for airport wifi. And I tether the data to my laptop when cafe wifi isn’t cutting it.
However! As soon as you activate the Holafly eSIM plan, it’ll start using data right away. So it usually doesn’t make sense to install and activate it at home like I did. You should wait until you reach your first destination to make the most of your eSIM.
Read more: How Does an Holafly Plans Subscription Work?
How to install and activate your Holafly eSIM
The easiest way to install and activate your Holafly eSIM is by scanning the QR code and following the steps. But you’ll need it open on another screen/device, so if all you have is your phone handy, you can set it up manually or “One-Button Install” if you have iOS 17.4 and above.
Install the Holafly eSIM before you depart for your trip. Wait to activate it until you arrive.
There’s a slightly different activation process depending on whether you have iOS or Android.
iOS
- Install and rename your eSIM (e.g. Holafly South Africa)
- Once you arrive: Settings – Cellular – Holafly eSIM profile.
- Enable “Turn on This Line” and make sure “Data Roaming” is ON.
- Under “Primary line” make sure you select Holafly for Mobile Data.
Android
- Install and rename your eSIM (e.g. Holafly New Zealand)
- Once you arrive: SIM Manager – enable Holafly – deactivate other SIMs.
- Select Holafly for mobile data.
- Be sure to turn Data Roaming ON.
Here’s the full installation guide. But the app/website provides step-by-step instructions on your phone that are easy to follow. It may feel a bit technical the first time, but by your second eSIM it’ll be smooth sailing.
All about Airalo
Airalo brands itself as the world’s first eSIM provider. And it really changed the game for international travellers.
Gone are the days of fumbling around with physical eSIM cards and visiting local phone shops when you arrive in a new country. We have Airalo to thank for that!
However, I’ve used their eSIMs a few times and the results were a really mixed bag compared to Holafly. It worked perfectly for my 3-Day Qatar Stopover, failed me pretty hard in South Africa (and refused me a refund), and was just so-so in Canada.
I don’t consider it reliable. But if you’re a budget backpacker, it might be the better choice between Holafly vs. Airalo.
Airalo eSIM pricing
Airalo’s pricing varies by region and how many gigs you want, but here are a few examples.
- 7 days in Europe (41 countries) 1 GB — $5
- 30 days in Europe/10 GBs — $37
- 30 days in New Zealand/10 GBs — $27
- 30 days in the United States/20 GBs + 200 texts + 400 minutes of calling — $49
(Prices are accurate as of July 2025.)
I’ve never used an Airalo eSIM in a destination where texting and calling were available. But this Reddit thread includes several firsthand accounts from other users — with mixed reviews.
Airalo key features
Frankly, I feel like Airalo walked so Holafly and other eSIM providers could run. Its features aren’t really anything special compared to what’s out there — like Holafly’s unlimited data, ETravelSim’s local number for calls/SMS in most locations, and Jetpac’s airport lounge access. I don’t really have any standout features to tell you about.
But these are some pros:
- Among the most affordable options
- Compatible with virtually every modern smartphone model
- 24/7 support
- Offers hotspotting on most plans
Airalo cons include:
A very poor track record for providing refunds (including in my own experience) and pretty unreliable service. When it works, it works well! But when it doesn’t, you’re on your own and you might not get your money back. (Seriously, go take a look at the comment section on my Airalo review article.)
Another notable risk is their recent security breach. Lots of people have complained of fraudulent charges on their card linked to Airalo. The company basically denies involvement and/or acknowledges the issue but says it’s not really their problem. (Though they’ve phrased it differently lol.)
My top Airalo advice is to use Google or Apple Pay and do not store your card details in the app.
Read more: Is an Airalo eSIM Worth It?
Holafly vs. Airalo summary
Holafly is the more reliable option but comes at a higher cost. It’s perfect for digital nomads, people who use a lot of data, and travellers who value reliability over price.
Airalo is best for budget travellers. And, depending on your destination, offers a texting and calling feature. While security and reliability are a bit of a risk, tons of people have still used Airalo with no issues.
Use my 5% discount code to try any Holafly eSIM for unlimited data wherever your next trip takes you.