After comparing the various plans available in our home country, we share the best eSIM for travel in the UK
Recently, I got a taste of what it is like to be a digital nomad in my own country. I had moved into a new home and was waiting for an engineer to visit to install a new broadband connection. As a result, I was reduced to using my mobile phone as a hotspot.
I soon burned through all my 80GB of data on my standard mobile plan, but I still had several days to wait for the installation. And now I didn’t have data when I was out and about. As such, I opted for an eSIM to bridge the gap.
It did the job, but, having used eSIMs extensively on my travels, I was surprised at how expensive eSIM services were in my home country. There were dozens of choices available, it was hard to know which was the best option, and I invariably ended up spending too much.
After using a range of eSIMs over the last few years, I believe I have a fairly good idea of what to use and where. Now, after a spot of trial and error, followed by some thorough research, I can now extend that knowledge to my native UK as well. Consequently, whether you’re a British-based digital nomad or a first-time visitor to these shores, we share the best eSIM for travel in the UK.
What is an eSIM
An eSIM (embedded SIM) is a digital version of a traditional SIM card built directly into your phone or device. Instead of inserting a physical SIM card, you simply download a mobile plan from a carrier via QR code or app.
eSIM adoption has surged in recent years, especially among travellers. The global number of travel eSIM users is projected to rise from around 40 million in 2024 to over 215 million by 2028, a 440% increase.
Major device makers like Apple and Samsung are increasingly shipping phones with built‑in eSIM support. This growth is being driven by cost savings (travel eSIMs cost roughly 35% less per GB than traditional roaming) and convenience – users can set up a local data plan before they even land, avoid expensive roaming fees, and switch between carriers instantly if needed. It’s convenient for multi-country trips, as you can store several eSIM profiles and activate them as you travel.
What is the best eSIM for travel in the UK?
We recommend the EE package from SIM Local as the best eSIM for travel in the UK. The SIM Local packages from EE are ideal as they offer the UK’s widest and fastest 4G coverage by some margin. As one of the UK’s four major network providers, EE’s standard 4G service covers 99% of the UK population and offers faster 4G in several popular locations around the country.
EE 30-day packages from SIM Local include the following plans, which include data and unlimited UK-to-UK calls and texts:
- 80GB, 30 days: $19.00
- 150GB, 30 days: $25.25
- 200GB, 30 days: $37.75
- Unlimited data, 30 days: $50.50
The above deals are remarkably good value. As a local here in the UK, I pay the same price for 80GB per month through my standard SIM-only tariff with O2. Furthermore, we can offer our readers 5% off all SIM Local plans and packages with the following discount code. Just enter it at checkout: ATLASANDBOOTS
SIM Local is a Dublin and London-based company that specialises in international eSIM plans to help travellers avoid issues like steep roaming fees, unreliable connectivity, and the inconvenience of sourcing local SIMs.
Founded in 2010, Sim Local has 15 years of industry experience, covers over 200 destinations and has been used by over four million customers around the world. Based on Trustpilot reviews (4.7 stars out of 5 stars), travellers have overwhelmingly had a positive experience with SIM Local too.
How to get online
The easiest way to get online in the UK is to order an eSIM via the SIM Local website. Once you’ve bought your plan online, you will be sent detailed step-by-step instructions on how to install the eSIM. SIM Local also provides detailed activation guides for the most popular models of phones on iOS and Andoroid.
It’s best to activate your plan when you have a stable WiFi connection, either just before takeoff or shortly after landing, to make the most of it. Once activated, your phone will automatically connect to the local networks when you reach your destination.
Getting online is easy, but if you need any help on arrival in the UK, SIM Local offers 24/7 support either via WhatsApp or their website chat function, and has lots of information and troubleshooting guides available in their help centre.
SIM Local also has shops, kiosks and vending machines located at major UK airports, including Heathrow and Gatwick. They can also be found in international stores, such as in Athens, Vienna and Madrid.
Conclusion: the best eSIM for travel in the UK
Considering EE has the UK’s widest and fastest 4G coverage, the good value in terms of using an eSIM compared to locally available plans, and the level of online and in-country support on offer, we recommend SIM Local as the best eSIM for travel in the UK.
Finally, don’t forget to use the discount code ATLASANDBOOTS to get 5% off all SIM Local plans.
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