*updated April 15, 2026.

When we leave Canada, we use eSIMs for inexpensive data plans. We like to download the app, install the eSIM ahead of time, and then activate the eSIM on arrival. We also like the money we save over time. I asked my local phone provider to disable roaming so I can’t accidentally be charged a roaming fee.

We have used three different eSIM products in the last two years for a variety of reasons.

I planned to be loyal to one brand, but I discovered that eSIM options differ among companies. I found the quality of the data service comparable- all good! Sometimes one eSIM company works better than others, depending on your needs and the places you plan to visit. Here’s a summary of our experience with the eSIM apps we have tried.

Airalo eSIM

By far our favourite is Airalo. We started using Airalo two years ago and have always been happy with the data service. In 2024, we used Airalo 6 times in 5 different countries without any issues. Most eSIMs can be reloaded when you revisit a country. I think it’s perfect for beginners and those taking shorter holidays with minimal data needs. We use FB Messenger and WhatsApp to communicate with family so Airalo is a great solution for us as we don’t need a local phone number. Airalo is a American company started in Singapore.

Use my discount code MELISS7781 for a $4.50CDN credit to get started.

Already have an account with Airalo use code JETSET10 to receive 10% off your next purchase -good until March 2027

GigSky eSIM

We learned of GigSky when we received an offer through our Infinity VISA card. We took advantage of a free 3G offer to try Gigsky eSIM. We downloaded and activated a $15 3G eSIM on our European train trip. It was enough data for our two-week trip, and connectivity was never an issue.

Here are the other reasons we liked GigSky:

• the regional cards covered the countries I visited better than other eSIMs
• if you enjoy wifi on a cruise, GigSky’s options are cheaper than paying a cruise line directly
• Infinite VISA card members receive a free 15-day eSIM per year- (often enough data for us on a short trip)

GigSky is an American company.

Use the code MELJ105 for a 25% off discount to get started.

Alosim eSIM

We learned of Alosim through a promotion. As CIBC customers, we received a discount code for Alosim. We used our credit to install an eSIM for our spring trip. We were able to install a British Isles eSIM, which was a perfect regional card for our trip through the UK and the Republic of Ireland. We would definitely consider Alosim options if we plan another multi-country trip.

Another great reason to use Alosim is that with each purchase, you can add a temporary phone number for free with the Hushed app. The Hushed app generates a temporary phone number while away from home.

Alosim and Hushed are Canadian companies.

Do we have a favourite?

The prices of services vary by app, so I suggest searching each eSIM app for the best fit for your destinations and data needs. For example, if you are travelling in one country, Airalo may be the best option. If you are cruising, then Gigsky is worth checking out. Finally, I will use Alosim when it suits to support a Canadian company, and adding a local Hushed phone number for free may be advantageous. This would be useful for extended trips.

Yesim – the next one to try

Our next eSIM to try is YESim, and new customers can use this 20% Promo Code: SUMMER20
until September 30, 2026.

Have you given an eSIM a try?

Here’s a link to our post about the first time we used Airalo.

Which eSIM is your favourite and why? There are many to choose from!

Ready to plan your next trip?

If you use any of these links, I may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you;)