Our recommended eSIMs for the UK
Since the UK left the EU, the old free EU roaming rules no longer automatically apply, so some visitors face roaming charges they did not expect. A travel eSIM gives you a predictable UK data plan, keeps your home number active for calls and codes, and installs in minutes.
Airalo
Best valueThe broadest coverage — 200+ countries — and strong value. Buy exactly the data you need.
Check Airalo plans →Yesim
Most flexiblePer-country, regional, pay-as-you-go and a global plan across 150+ destinations.
Check Yesim plans →Saily
NordVPN teamA reliable, security-minded eSIM from the team behind NordVPN, with a clean app.
Check Saily plans →Holiday.com
ExpressVPN teamA global travel eSIM for 150+ destinations from the team behind ExpressVPN — one eSIM you top up as you go, with a privacy focus.
Check Holiday.com plans →GigSky
Cruise & inflightTravel eSIM covering 190+ countries, plus cruise-ship and inflight data plans that most eSIM providers do not offer.
Check GigSky plans →Plans, prices and coverage change often — confirm the current plan on each provider's own page before buying. Links are affiliate links; see our disclosure.
Coverage in the UK
Coverage is strong across England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland, particularly in and around cities and along major routes, because travel eSIMs use the UK's major networks. The Highlands and remote rural spots can be patchier, as they are for everyone.
How much data do you need?
- ◆Light use (maps, messaging): 1–3GB per week.
- ◆Normal use (social, photos, some video): a 5GB+ plan with top-up.
- ◆Heavy use or a wider Europe trip: consider a larger allowance or a regional plan.
Getting connected on arrival
- 1Buy your plan before you fly, while you still have your home connection.
- 2Install the eSIM when prompted (scan the QR code or tap install in the provider's app), and label the line so it is easy to find.
- 3On arrival, turn the travel eSIM's data on and enable data roaming for that line.
- 4Set your home line to 'data off' so you are never billed for roaming, and keep it active for calls, texts and two-factor codes.
Plan the rest of your the UK trip
Flights, a hire car and somewhere to stay — the essentials, in one place, from services we rate.
Compare flights to the UK across hundreds of airlines and travel agencies in one search — set a price alert and book when the fare is right.
Find flights to the UK →Compare car-hire deals across the UK from all the major rental companies in one search — most bookings come with free cancellation, and prices are usually lowest when you book ahead.
Compare car hire in the UK →Find somewhere to stay in the UK — from city hotels to coastal boltholes — with free cancellation on most rooms. Filter by area and read verified guest reviews before you book.
Where to stay in the UK →London Eye, Tower of London and day-trip tickets.
Book London tours & attraction tickets →Compensation for delays or cancellations.
Claim for a delayed flight →Frequently asked questions
Do I need an eSIM for the UK?
If your home plan does not include the UK — which now includes many EU plans since Brexit removed guaranteed free roaming — a travel eSIM is the clean, predictable fix. It installs in minutes and keeps your home number active.
Which is the best eSIM for the UK?
Airalo is the value default, and its Europe-regional plans can cover the UK plus a wider trip. Yesim is a flexible alternative.
Does one eSIM cover the UK and Europe?
A regional Europe plan can cover the UK alongside many European countries — useful for multi-stop trips. See our guide to the best eSIM for Europe for how regional plans work.
