Best Long-Term eSIM Subscriptions: 6 Top Picks for Travel

Stay connected for weeks — no midnight SIM hunts. Which eSIM keeps your maps, messages, and memes flowing?

Flying into a new country and realizing you have zero data is the worst travel plot twist. It ruins navigation, delays plans, and turns coffee shop Wi‑Fi into a frantic lifeline. Short trips survive on scraps; long trips need a plan that just works.

Think of a long‑term eSIM like a rental car you actually trust. It should be reliable, simple to refill, and not wildly expensive. Below are six solid options for different travel styles — from budget backups to all‑out unlimited plans.

Top eSIM Picks

1
Unlimited USA eSIM — 30-Day Plan
Editor's Choice
Unlimited USA eSIM — 30-Day Plan
Unlimited US data, calls, and texts
8.5
Amazon.com
2
30GB Europe eSIM 15-Day Plan
Best Value
30GB Europe eSIM 15-Day Plan
Fast, simple European data for short trips
8
Amazon.com
3
Prepaid 1-Month Unlimited Plan — 10GB
Best Value (Long-Term)
Prepaid 1-Month Unlimited Plan — 10GB
Affordable nationwide US coverage for months
7.5
Amazon.com
4
1GB Global eSIM — 30-Day Data
Budget Pick
1GB Global eSIM — 30-Day Data
Low-cost global data for light users
7
Amazon.com
5
Japan eSIM 10GB — 20-Day Plan
Must-Have for Japan
Japan eSIM 10GB — 20-Day Plan
Local-focused plan for Japan travelers
6.8
Amazon.com
6
28-Day Europe eSIM with Calls
28-Day Europe eSIM with Calls
All-in-one Europe plan with voice and tethering
6
Amazon.com

Editor's Choice
1

Unlimited USA eSIM — 30-Day Plan

Unlimited US data, calls, and texts
8.5/10
EXPERT SCORE

A strong all‑round choice for travelers to the U.S. thanks to unlimited high-speed data (with a full‑speed bucket followed by unlimited reduced speed), a local US number, and hotspot support. Activation is straightforward when device compatibility and activation timing are followed.

Pros
Unlimited data with an initial full-speed allocation plus continued connectivity
Includes a local US number with unlimited calls and texts
Hotspot/tethering supported for family or work use
Clear activation flow and responsive support in many cases
Cons
Requires eSIM-compatible, unlocked phones (iPhone 12+ for 5G)
Activation scheduling and Sunday restrictions may be inconvenient for some

Overview

This prepaid unlimited eSIM offers an appealing package for those traveling to the United States: unlimited data (with an initial full-speed portion followed by reduced speeds), a local U.S. phone number for inbound/outbound calls and texts, and hotspot capability. The seller provides an online activation portal and support via live chat during most days of the week.

Key strengths

Full convenience: get a domestic phone number that lets friends, restaurants, and services contact you as a local.
Real-world connectivity: reviewers commonly describe easy installation via QR and dependable service after the scheduled activation.
Hotspot support helps when you need to connect a laptop, tablet, or family devices while on the move.

Practical tips: activate the eSIM at least 24 hours before travel to ensure the number and service are available on arrival. Confirm device compatibility (some Android models and non‑iPhone devices may face limitations), and follow the portal’s IMEI/EID instructions precisely.

Limitations and advice

Not all phones support carrier networks or 5G speeds with this eSIM; double-check compatibility on the seller’s chat or documentation.
Activation cannot be scheduled on Sundays, so plan accordingly.
While many users reported smooth experiences, a small number needed support during activation — keep support contact info handy.

Given the balance of unlimited data, a local number, and hotspot capability, this plan is a solid Editor’s Choice for travelers needing dependable, full-featured U.S. connectivity for a month.


Best Value
2

30GB Europe eSIM 15-Day Plan

Fast, simple European data for short trips
8/10
EXPERT SCORE

Instant activation and a large 30 GB allowance make this a strong pick for travelers who need reliable data across many European countries. Works well for navigation, messaging, and sharing a hotspot for light multitasking.

Pros
Generous 30 GB data allowance for 15 days
Covers 40+ European countries with major local networks
Hotspot/tethering supported on compatible devices
Quick, no-registration activation via QR code
Cons
Short validity (15 days) — not ideal for extended trips
Activation time can vary; some users report delays

Who this plan is for

This prepaid 30 GB, 15-day eSIM is designed for travelers who want a quick, no-fuss data solution while touring Europe. The setup is centered around an emailed QR code you scan to install and activate the eSIM, and the seller advertises instant activation in about 10 minutes.

Key features and real-world benefits

Coverage across 40+ European countries with access to major local 4G/5G networks.
30 GB of high-speed data over a 15-day window — enough for maps, social uploads, streaming on the go, and moderate tethering.
Hotspot support lets you share data with a laptop or tablet; ideal for couples or light work tasks while traveling.

Practical examples: using the plan for navigation and messaging in multiple countries was straightforward for many travelers, and sharing a hotspot for a laptop or secondary device worked reliably on compatible phones. If you need a temporary, large-data option for a two-week trip, this hits the sweet spot.

Limitations and tips

The plan is time-limited (15 days). For longer trips you’ll need to stack plans or pick a longer-duration eSIM.
While many buyers saw near-instant activation, a portion of reviews report activation taking several hours — register and test well before departure when possible.
Make sure your phone is unlocked and eSIM-compatible (check EID) before purchase; incompatibility is not covered by the seller.

Overall, this option is a straightforward, cost-effective way to get robust European data for short stays without dealing with physical SIMs or extended contracts.


Best Value (Long-Term)
3

Prepaid 1-Month Unlimited Plan — 10GB

Affordable nationwide US coverage for months
7.5/10
EXPERT SCORE

A budget-friendly prepaid option that offers 10 GB of full‑speed data per month on a nationwide network and unlimited talk/text. Good long‑term value for secondary lines or cost‑conscious users, though performance and features depend on device compatibility and network bands.

Pros
Low-cost monthly pricing and no activation fees
Works on nationwide networks (Verizon-based coverage reported)
Generous 10 GB high-speed data per month with unlimited talk/text
Cons
Occasional compatibility issues with specific phones or frequencies
Customer service and advanced features (RCS, seamless porting) can be limited

Who this is intended for

This prepaid plan targets users who want reliable U.S. coverage on a budget — ideal for secondary phones, longer stays, or people who want to avoid expensive postpaid plans. The offering emphasizes a 1-month cycle with 10 GB of high-speed data and unlimited talk/text.

Features and benefits

10 GB of high-speed data each month with reduced speeds after the cap is reached.
Nationwide coverage via a major carrier network (many reviews indicate Verizon network access), which helps in both urban and many rural areas.
No activation fees and simple SIM/eSIM options to get started.

User experiences note excellent value for the price, with reliable data and decent speeds for everyday use and road trips. Call quality and network reliability are generally good, with speed tests in some areas averaging strong numbers.

Caveats and practical advice

Device compatibility matters: phones lacking specific carrier frequencies may see degraded service (especially on some older or budget devices). Check compatibility before purchase.
Porting and customer support can be slower or less polished than major carriers; set expectations accordingly if you need number porting.
For heavy hotspot users or those needing advanced carrier features, compare full-price alternatives — but for basic, long-term economical coverage, this plan is compelling.

Overall, this is a practical, cost-effective option for travelers or residents seeking extended prepaid coverage without premium pricing.


Budget Pick
4

1GB Global eSIM — 30-Day Data

Low-cost global data for light users
7/10
EXPERT SCORE

A very inexpensive option to get data coverage across 70+ countries for 30 days, best suited for light usage or as a backup data plan. Speeds and reliability vary by destination; don't expect heavy streaming performance on this tier.

Pros
Extremely affordable for global coverage
Works in 77+ countries — broad reach for travelers
Simple QR code activation and 24/7 support
Cons
Only 1 GB of data — quickly exhausted by streaming or tethering
Mixed speed and reliability reports in some regions
Data-only (no voice or SMS)

Who should consider this plan

This 1 GB, 30-day global eSIM is aimed at travelers who only need light connectivity — checking email, maps, messaging apps, and occasional web browsing — across many countries. It’s also a good budget backup if your main plan fails.

Notable features

Coverage in 77+ countries including major destinations (Europe, Asia, North America, Oceania).
QR code activation: you receive the code after purchase and install the eSIM on a compatible, unlocked device.
24/7 support claims help if you run into setup issues.

Practical examples: reviewers used this as a secondary line while roaming and found it useful for essential tasks. A small number of users mentioned very slow speeds or partial connectivity in specific locales; that’s not unusual for ultra-low-cost, multi-country plans.

Limitations and tips

Capacity: 1 GB is small — disable background updates and streaming to stretch the data.
No voice/SMS: rely on apps (WhatsApp, Messenger) for calls or SMS alternatives.
If you need steady high-speed or hotspot use, upgrade to a larger data package or purchase multiple GBs.

In short, this plan is a pragmatic, low-cost choice for light or emergency data needs while traveling internationally, provided you manage expectations about speed and capacity.


Must-Have for Japan
5

Japan eSIM 10GB — 20-Day Plan

Local-focused plan for Japan travelers
6.8/10
EXPERT SCORE

A Japan‑specific eSIM that advertises easy installation and solid coverage for tourists, business travelers, and digital nomads. Some users report activation or network issues on arrival, so verify compatibility and consider activating early or having a backup.

Pros
Japan-focused coverage and generally fast local 4G/5G speeds
Plug-and-play QR code installation
Good option for daily high-speed data needs during short stays
Cons
Mixed user reports about activation failures and "no network" errors
Some reviewers found it less cost-effective than carrier roaming deals

Purpose and audience

This eSIM is marketed specifically for travelers to Japan who want a quick, local data experience without roaming charges. Plans typically advertise daily allowances and stable access to KDDI and other local carriers for good coverage.

Key features and benefits

Easy QR code installation designed for most eSIM-capable phones.
10 GB total on a 20-day plan (or similar daily allocations depending on the listing), enabling navigation, streaming short clips, and messaging.
Designed to be used for tourism, business trips, or short-term remote work in Japan.

Real-world notes: many users report solid speeds and consistent coverage once the eSIM is active, which is critical for navigation and translation apps while moving between cities. However, there are multiple reports of activation errors or inability to connect after arrival — these are often device‑specific or related to steps like turning on roaming.

Limitations and practical tips

Activation reliability varies: test installation before leaving, and follow the seller’s checkout/activation sequence closely.
If you have a global roaming add-on from your main carrier, compare costs — in some cases a carrier plan may be slightly more convenient if you prefer voice and full services.
Keep a physical backup (another eSIM or local SIM) if you cannot afford connectivity gaps.

This Japan-focused eSIM is a convenient option for many visitors, but make sure to confirm device compatibility and activation timing to avoid surprises on arrival.


6

28-Day Europe eSIM with Calls

All-in-one Europe plan with voice and tethering
6/10
EXPERT SCORE

The plan combines 20 GB of data with unlimited local calling and some international minutes, plus hotspot support — a tempting all‑in‑one for month‑long trips. Customer experiences vary; activation quirks and inconsistent voice/SMS behavior were reported, so prepare a backup.

Pros
Includes data plus calling (local unlimited) and 100 minutes to USA
Allows hotspot/tethering for sharing internet
Works across a long list of European countries (34 listed)
Auto-activating QR code delivered via email (quick access)
Cons
Multiple user reports of activation failures and inconsistent support
Some buyers could not receive incoming calls or SMS as advertised
Support availability limited and communication issues reported

What it promises

This 28-day Europe eSIM bundles 20 GB of data with unlimited local calls across covered countries and 100 minutes to the USA, plus hotspot/tethering. The seller sends a QR code by email (usually within 24 hours), and the product is advertised as auto-activating for convenience.

Main advantages

One eSIM to cover travel across 34 European countries, avoiding the need to swap local SIMs.
A combined voice+data package that is useful if you want a temporary local number for reservations or calling guides.
Hotspot support helps when you have multiple devices or need to connect a laptop for light work.

User feedback highlights: several travelers had successful trips using the plan and found it good value for blended voice and data. However, other buyers reported that incoming calls or SMS did not function as expected, or that activation from North America failed, so experiences are inconsistent.

Practical cautions and tips

Many negative reviews focus on activation problems and slow or poor technical support; test the eSIM well in advance if possible.
If you absolutely require reliable inbound calling or SMS, consider a backup solution (local SIM, secondary eSIM, or roaming from your home carrier).
Turn on data roaming and read the activation instructions closely; save seller contact details before travel.

This is a feature-rich plan on paper — voice + data + tethering across many countries — but buyer experiences suggest you should be prepared for possible setup or support headaches.


Final Thoughts

Top pick — Unlimited USA eSIM — 30-Day Plan (8.5/10)

If you're spending extended time in the United States, this is the most dependable monthly option here. It gives unlimited high‑speed data (then unlimited reduced speed), a local US number, and hotspot support. Strengths: consistent nationwide coverage, easy activation if your device is compatible, and true unlimited use for maps, streaming short videos, and working on the go. Ideal for long business trips, month‑long stays, or digital nomads who need steady, no‑fuss connectivity.

Best budget long‑term option — Prepaid 1‑Month Unlimited Plan — 10GB (7.5/10)

If you want a lower monthly cost while still keeping a regular data allotment and voice/text, this is the better value pick. Strengths: affordable monthly pricing, 10 GB of full‑speed data per month, and nationwide US coverage. Ideal for repeat monthly stays, secondary lines, or travelers who mostly use Wi‑Fi but want a reliable data baseline without paying for full unlimited speeds.

Quick tip: For short Europe trips or as a swap‑in for multi‑country travel, keep the 30GB Europe eSIM handy. And always check device unlock status and activation timing before you leave.


FAQ

Can I install an eSIM before I leave home?

Yes — in most cases you can add the eSIM to your phone before travel and set the activation date or leave it dormant until arrival. That avoids airport scramble. Just confirm the provider’s activation window and follow their instructions for turn‑on timing.

Do eSIMs work with tethering/hotspot?

Some plans explicitly support hotspot—like the Unlimited USA and the Europe plans with tethering—but not all do. Even when allowed, hotspot speeds can be throttled once you pass certain usage thresholds. Check the plan details and test tethering early in your trip.

What phones support eSIMs?

Most modern unlocked iPhones and many Android phones (Google Pixel, recent Samsung Galaxy models, etc.) support eSIMs. Older devices and carrier‑locked phones might not. Look up your exact model’s eSIM support before buying.

Should I pick a country‑specific plan or a global one?

For long stays in one country (e.g., a month in the U.S. or Japan), a country plan usually gives better reliability and features (local number, hotspot). For hopping between many countries, a global plan or regional plan is simpler, though data allowances may be smaller or speeds lower.

What if activation fails when I land?

Have a backup: keep a small global 1GB plan or a local SIM option ready. Also restart your phone, check eSIM profile settings, and toggle airplane mode. If issues persist, contact the provider’s support and use Wi‑Fi calling/messaging until fixed.

How can I stretch monthly data for long trips?

Simple tactics help: use offline maps, limit high‑bitrate video, let apps update only on Wi‑Fi, and compress images before uploading. When possible, switch heavy tasks (backups, large downloads) to a stable Wi‑Fi connection.