I love Asia, it’s one of my favourite regions of the world, and somewhere I will keep finding excuses to return! Most people when they head away to Asia, they tend to visit a few countries at one time, whether it’s Japan, Thailand, Singapore, China, Vietnam or more — and staying connected without huge roaming bills is a priority.
Back when I first started backpacking Asia, I remember having to get different physical sim cards for each new country I entered.
the language barrier, the stress of losing my “actual” sim card, I hated it, plus some places I had to provide my passport, home address, a whole host of information, just to get some internet for a few days or a few weeks.
Thankfully, eSIMs have made the process a LOT easier. eSIMs are one of the easiest and most flexible ways to get data across multiple Asian countries without swapping SIM cards or relying on hotel Wi-Fi.
Below I’ve rounded up the top providers I’d recommend in 2026, starting with my #1 pick: Holafly — because of how strong their regional Asia coverage and plan flexibility are.
Holafly has become a go-to name for travellers who want easy eSIM setup and truly unlimited data in many destinations — including Asia. Unlike some competitors that offer only fixed GB bundles, Holafly focuses heavily on unlimited data plans that you choose based on the number of travel days you need. Installation is simple — you buy online, get a QR code to install it instantly, and activate when you land.
Holafly also now offers subscription-style global plans that include a phone number option — meaning you can get not just data but also calling/SMS capability in some plans, which is pretty unique in the eSIM world.
Before we get into it, let’s list the countries that the Asia eSIM by Holafly covers:
Unlimited Asia eSIM — Holafly offers regional Asia coverage with unlimited data. You choose how many days you want (from 1 day up to 90 days) and pay accordingly.
With the unlimited Asia eSim, you can share up to 500mb with family and friends, useful if someone has forgotten their eSIM! ;)
Pricing examples by duration: 1 day of unlimited data in Asia is $3.90 and the more days you go for, the cheaper it is, for example, 2 weeks of unlimited data works out at $3.40 per day, and if you were visiting for a month it drops to $2.57 per day…for unlimited data! That’s a GREAT deal.
But, the good news is, if you are traveling for a month or more in Asia (which usually a lot of people are, 3 months tend to be the sweet spot), then Holafly also offers an unlimited monthly data plan at just $64.90 a month that includes:
I think for a digital nomad this is a really good deal, because you’re covered for both your phone connection and your laptop connection (when you want to work at the beach or other more remote spots), and you’re not relying on WiFi.
They do have a “light” option available too, which has less perks, but still has 25GB of data monthly, which is a decent amount!
Could be pricier than simple data-only plans — unlimited data comes at a slight premium versus basic pay-per-GB options.
Simovo offers a mix of regional and unlimited eSIM data plans — including for Asia. Their goal is straightforward: affordable, easy-to-install eSIMs that you can activate in minutes.
They cover regional eSIMs (including Asia) as well as unlimited daily plans that reset high-speed data each day.
They have a 20 and a 12 country Asia plan, depending on where you're visiting.
The 20 includes:
and their 12 includes:
Simovo’s Asia plans give you flexibility — pick daily high-speed limits (like 1 GB/day or more) or a total GB plan. Hotspot and tethering are supported, and you install via QR code after purchase.
Simify is another popular travel eSIM provider that offers Asia-focused eSIMs. They’re known for unlimited data options and a good range of country-specific or regional plans
Simify’s plans tend to be a bit cheaper than other unlimited eSims if you don’t need completely open-ended data. They also let you keep your home phone number active on your usual SIM while using the eSIM for data.
Roamless takes a different approach — instead of separate regional eSIMs, you install one global eSIM that works in 200+ countries (including Asia & Oceania).
You then buy data via fixed plans or a pay-as-you-go credit system.
This setup is excellent if you travel often and don’t like installing a different eSIM for each trip or region — one eSIM and then various data credits.
Maya Mobile offers international eSIMs with both unlimited and prepaid options. Although not as focused on Asia as some others, they do support Asia region plans and quick activation via QR codes with no contracts.
Before you buy an Asia eSIM, it’s worth checking that your device supports eSIM — because even the best plans won’t load if your phone doesn’t have the hardware or software for it.
Good news: Most smartphones released in the past few years now include eSIM support — especially iPhones and popular Android models.
If you have an iPhone XS / XR or newer, you’re almost certainly eSIM-ready. That includes all recent models like the iPhone 14, 15, 16 and 17 series. Many newer iPhones even drop the physical SIM slot entirely in some regions, making eSIM the only way to connect.
Many Android phones support eSIM now too — especially flagships and mid-range models from brands like:
Some tablets (like cellular iPads) and even a few laptops and wearables support eSIM too — so you’re not limited to phones if you want mobile data on the go.
Quick tip: Go to Settings > Mobile/Network > Add eSIM on your device — if you see that option, your phone is compatible. Also make sure your device is unlocked from any carrier restrictions before installing a travel eSIM.
So there you have it, my guide on the best eSIMs for Asia!
Trust me, you’re going to want to add “get an eSIM” to your packing list, and you can plan ahead of time, so buy your eSIM before your trip, and it’ll be ready to use once you land. I personally recommend Holafly for the great value, the unlimited data doesn’t hurt when there’s lots of stuff to upload to TikTok and Instagram, and it’s a very easy to navigate website and app.
Plus you can get 5% off with the code DREAMBIGTRAVELFAR (you’re welcome) ;)
If you’ve used any of these eSIMs and want to share your thoughts, or you have more questions, then please feel free to drop a comment below!
Love,
Cazzy
(A human, not an AI)
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