There are a ton of eSIM companies out there and it can be hard to choose which is best for your trip. After testing Nomad eSIM in Canada and Thailand, I can tell you it’s a solid, reliable option. Here’s what I liked about it, how it compares to other major eSIM providers, and a 20% discount code when you’re ready to try it yourself.
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My Nomad eSIM review
I’ve tried about 10 different eSIM providers now just for the love of research. Nomad eSIM stuck out as an easy, reliable option. It’s best for first-time eSIM users who want an easy set up process and no fuss. It was super easy to install through the app (they also have a QR code option), and I had 5G basically all the time.
My Nomad eSIM in Canada even had service at the top of 5040, a pretty rural peak on Vancouver Island. Reception was also solid in Thailand, but a bit more hit-or-miss in Nepal (working as soon as I got off the plane but then touch and go around Kathmandu). Nepal’s internet and data reception stuff is complicated though, and Chesney’s Saily subscription didn’t work in Nepal either.
Because I was bouncing around a bit, I went with a global plan. Nomad eSIM has two options with coverage in either 98 or 123 countries (so make sure you check the list). But this actually ended up being such a lifesaver. I was due to meet Chesney in Nepal at the end of August — just a couple of days after the country experienced devastating floods.
We made a snap decision to postpone the trip and meet in Thailand instead, and it was so nice that my eSIM still automatically had coverage as soon as I landed. No needing to cancel my plan or get a new one. As a general eSIM rule: If your plans are flexible, global is the way to go.
Nomad eSIM pros and cons
Here are a few of the main pros and cons to using a Nomad eSIM for your next trip.
The main pros
- Simple set up. You just open the app to start the process or scan a QR code and the rest is basically done for you. This is especially valuable if this is your first time using an eSIM!
- Reliable coverage. I had 5G the entire time across two different countries/continents. Because I had a global plan, it also activated as soon as I landed and switched off airplane mode. 10/10 connectivity experience.
- They remind you when you’re running low on data. It’s just a little email and a push notification in the app, but it’s good peace of mind that you won’t just wake up with no data one day.
- 20% discount and friendship referral. Use my Nomad eSIM promo code (RUNAWAY20) to get 20% off your first purchase. And when you create an account you’ll get a code you can share with friends that gives you both $5 USD off.
The main cons
- Nomad eSIM doesn’t offer a monthly auto-renewing subscription. If you’re a long-term traveler who likes not having to think about topping up, this is worth considering.
- No phone number or VoIP calling ability. Most eSIMs are still data-only, so this isn’t a con that’s unique to Nomad eSIM. But it’s still worth noting if you’re looking for an actual phone number with your eSIM.
- Coverage may not be as strong in every country you visit. While I had absolutely no issues with my eSIM and was actually impressed by the coverage, it might be different in Mexico. Some users on Reddit said their coverage there wasn’t as strong, and others raved about the signal in China (which is not always the case for other eSIM companies). So make sure you do a quick location-specific search before you buy to see if there are any recent complaints.
Nomad eSIM membership perks
With some brand loyalty, you gain a different status level with Nomad eSIM based on your annual spend. The more often you travel, the better your perks become. Here’s more info about how Nomad eSIM Membership works.
How to choose the best eSIM plan
Ok, so you like the look of Nomad eSIM and you’re ready to give it a whirl, but you don’t know which plan to pick. It’s not a do-or-die decision and you can always top up if you need more.
- Consider where you’re going. If you’re just flying direct to one country and coming home, don’t overpay for global coverage. But if your itinerary includes a long layover or you’re just going with the flow, the flexibility of a regional or global plan is worth it.
- Think about your true data habits. If you’re mostly using maps and messaging, a plan with just a few GBs will be fine. But if you’re streaming, working online, or addicted to TikTok, you should probably size up. Nomad eSIM has a handy data calculator to help you estimate.
- Make sure your device is eSIM-compatible. Most phones from the last like, five-ish years will work, but check the list before you pay.
- Don’t forget the Nomad eSIM promo code for 20% off. Use RUNAWAY20 at check out.
Nomad eSIM vs competitors
Here’s a quick overview of how Nomad eSIM stacks up compared to a few of its main competitors.
| Nomad eSIM | Airalo | Roamless | Saily | Holafly | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Home screen data-left widget | ✓ | ✓ | ✕ | ✓ | ✕ |
| Hotspotting | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| 24/7 customer support | ✓ | ✓ | ✕ | ✓ | ✓ |
| Phone number optional | ✕ | ✕ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| Trustpilot rating | 4.3 ★ | 3.9 ★ | 4.5 ★ | 4.7 ★ | 4.6 ★ |
Need more deets? See my spreadsheet comparing 14 of the top eSIM companies.
Frequently asked questions
Here are some answers to FAQs about Nomad eSIMs and how this helpful travel tech works.
How do you activate a Nomad eSIM?
There are two main ways to activate your Nomad eSIM: via the app or with a QR code. In both cases, they provide set up steps and it will walk you through the whole thing. You adjust a few of your phone settings and switch on data roaming for your Nomad line when you enter a new country. You don’t need to remove your home SIM or anything to activate it.
Nomad eSIM has a step-by-step installation guide with more specific iPhone and Android installation steps.
Can you hotspot with Nomad eSIM?
Absolutely yes. Hotspotting lets you basically cast your eSIM data to another device, and Nomad eSIM lets you hotspot with no limits.
Hotspotting is helpful if you’re traveling with someone else who (foolishly) forgot to download an eSIM. Or if you need to use your laptop and there’s no good Wi-Fi connection available. Note hotspotting will still pull from your package’s data limit, so you should still keep an eye on your usage. This is why I loooooove the little widget for your home screen.
Does Nomad eSIM give you a phone number?
No, Nomad eSIMs are all data-only, which is the same for most eSIMs on the market. You’ll rarely miss it, though. WhatsApp, iMessage, FaceTime and other calling apps cover pretty much everything you need. The only time it’s handy to have an actual number is when you want to call a local business or a landline.
Depending on where you’re travelling, this isn’t even an issue. For example, most local businesses in Asia have a WhatsApp number you can use. And all tour companies understand that international visitors don’t have working phone numbers.
Are eSIMs safer than Wi-Fi?
Yes, eSIMs are more secure than using open Wi-Fi networks. The lack of encryption on open networks leaves you susceptible to hackers, password theft, malware, and more scary words.
Instead of joining one of the half-dozen sketchy variations of “Free_Airport_WiFi” (especially where no password is required), just stick to your eSIM data for a more private connection.
Can I buy a Nomad eSIM for someone else?
Yes, you can totally buy a Nomad eSIM for someone else. You can send them the QR Nomad sends you via email, and they can take over the setup process. Here’s a more detailed guide on their website.
eSIMs are on my list of great gift ideas for travellers. (I know we’re notoriously hard to shop for.)
Is there a Nomad eSIM promo code?
There sure is! Nomad eSIM offers my readers a generous 20% off. There are some caveats, but the discount covers nearly every plan they offer. Use RUNAWAY20 in the promo code box before you pay for the eSIM to apply it. Thanks for reading!
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Naomi Lai
Naomi is a Canadian travel editor and writer with 13 years of international travel across Southeast Asia, Europe, South America, New Zealand, and beyond. She covers everything from budget backpacking to luxury travel — always from personal experience.
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