If you’re planning a trip to the United Kingdom, staying connected is key — whether for maps, booking rides, finding the best pubs, or sharing your journey. Thankfully, eSIMs have made it easier than ever to skip the local SIM card kiosks and go digital.
We’ve reviewed some of the best travel eSIM apps you can use during your trip to the UK: Holafly, Airalo, Ubigi, and Nomad. Each has its strengths, and in this guide, we’ll walk you through which one is right for your travel style, plus tips on installing eSIMs on your phone.
🌍 What is an eSIM and Why Use One in the UK?
An eSIM is a digital version of a SIM card embedded into your phone. It allows you to connect to a mobile network without inserting a physical card — perfect for international travel. You can keep your home SIM active for calls while using your eSIM for local data.
The UK has robust 4G and growing 5G networks across major cities and even smaller towns. Using an eSIM here is a convenient and often cost-effective way to avoid roaming charges.
🏆 Top eSIM Providers for Travelling to the UK
1. Holafly – Best for Unlimited Data and Simplicity
Origin: Founded in Spain in 2018, Holafly was created to solve the hassle of staying connected abroad.
Coverage: 160+ countries including strong UK support
Standout Feature: Unlimited data in the UK and across Europe
Why It’s Great for the UK
If you’re streaming on the train, using Google Maps around London, or video calling home — Holafly’s unlimited datameans you don’t have to worry about your usage. It’s especially great for tourists who need data all day, every day.
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Pros:
Unlimited data in the UK
Easy installation via QR or app
Excellent support in English via WhatsApp
Cons:
No mobile hotspot with unlimited plans
Slightly more expensive than capped plans
2. Airalo – Best Budget eSIM for Light Data Users
Origin: Based in Singapore, Airalo launched in 2019 and quickly became a top marketplace for affordable global eSIMs.
Coverage: 190+ countries
UK Plan: 1GB for 7 days to 20GB for 30 days, very affordable
Why It’s Great for the UK
Airalo is great if you’re planning a short visit to the UK and just want data for navigation, messaging, and checking reservations. Their plans are cheap and can be installed in minutes.
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Pros:
Extremely affordable
Pay only for what you need
Ideal for short-term or budget travel
Cons:
No unlimited data
Lower speeds if you exceed your limit
3. Ubigi – Great for Connected Cars and Frequent UK Visitors
Origin: Ubigi is operated by French telecom giant Transatel, a subsidiary of NTT Group, and is often pre-installed in smart vehicles (e.g., BMW, Jaguar).
Coverage: Available in 190 countries including strong partnerships in the UK
Why It’s Great for the UK
Ubigi is perfect for business travellers or anyone driving a connected vehicle in the UK. Their app is straightforward, and their data plans are ideal for people who visit the UK often.
Pros:
Often integrated into car systems
Secure, reliable connections
One account for global travel
Cons:
App can feel dated
Not always the cheapest for tourists
4. Nomad – Flexible and Stylish for the Modern Traveller
Origin: Based in San Francisco, Nomad was built for digital nomads and travellers needing flexibility in how they connect.
Coverage: 110+ countries
UK Plan: Choose from 1GB to 20GB options; affordable and fast
Why It’s Great for the UK
Nomad’s strength lies in its polished app, flexible pricing, and reliable coverage in the UK. It’s perfect if you want more control over your plan and appreciate a clean, user-friendly experience.
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Pros:
Flexible plans
Simple interface
Good performance in the UK
Cons:
No unlimited data option
Smaller global coverage than Airalo or Holafly
🧠 eSIM Tips for UK Visitors
Install the eSIM while still on Wi-Fi at home. Most apps allow you to scan a QR code or install directly from the app.
📲 How to Use Dual SIM on iPhone:
Go to Settings > Mobile Data > Add eSIM
Choose your travel eSIM and set it as the data line
Keep your regular SIM active for calls/texts, but disable data roaming on it
🚫 Avoid Roaming Fees
Turn off roaming on your home SIM
Make sure your travel eSIM is set for mobile data use only
Monitor your usage through the provider’s app
🏁 Final Thoughts
| Feature | Holafly | Airalo | Ubigi | Nomad |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Origin Country | Spain | Singapore | France | USA |
| Best For | Unlimited data | Budget users | Frequent travel | App UX & flexibility |
| UK Coverage | ✅ Excellent | ✅ Very good | ✅ Excellent | ✅ Good |
| Data Hotspot | ❌ Not on unlimited | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
| Price Range | 💰 Mid-High | 💸 Low | 💵 Moderate | 💵 Moderate |
🏆 Our Pick for UK Travel: Holafly
For peace of mind and no data caps while navigating UK life — from London to Loch Ness — Holafly offers unmatched convenience with unlimited data.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which eSIM is best for visiting the UK?
Holafly is ideal for travellers to the UK thanks to its unlimited data, easy setup, and strong coverage across England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland.
Can I install a UK eSIM before I arrive?
Yes, and it’s recommended! You can install your eSIM while still at home using Wi-Fi so you're ready to connect the moment you land.
Can I use an eSIM and my regular SIM together?
Yes. On most smartphones, especially iPhones, you can run your eSIM for data and keep your home SIM active for texts or calls.
Will I get 5G in the UK with these eSIMs?
Some plans support 5G, but most currently offer 4G LTE. Check with the provider if 5G is essential for your needs.
Which eSIM provider has the cheapest UK plans?
Airalo typically offers the lowest-cost plans, starting from as little as $4.50 for 1GB over 7 days.