Best eSIMs for Germany 2024: Travelers’ Top Choices
Germany is a top destination for travelers, from Berlin’s streets to Bavaria’s castles and the Rhine Valley. Staying connected is essential, and eSIM technology offers a flexible way to do that. With eSIMs, you can easily switch carriers and activate new plans from your phone, ensuring reliable internet without the hassle of traditional SIM cards. This article will cover the top five eSIMs for Germany, helping you choose the best plan for a smooth and hassle-free trip.
Table of contents
- Top eSIM Providers for Germany
- Things to Know Before Ordering an eSIM Card for Germany
- Tips When Using an eSIM in Germany
- Are eSIM Cards the Best Way to Stay Connected When Traveling to Germany?
- Where Can You Buy an eSIM Card for Germany?
- How to Activate and Use an eSIM in Germany
- Final Thoughts
- FAQ
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Top eSIM Providers for Germany
To stay connected in Germany, a wide selection of eSIM providers offers flexible solutions to meet your needs. In this section, we'll review the leading eSIM providers in Germany, focusing on important factors such as network reliability, data speeds, ease of activation, customer support, and pricing.
1. Airalo — Popular eSIM choice for Germany
| Feature | Parameters |
|---|---|
| Supports Cellular Networks: | 3G, 4G, LTE, 5G |
| Countries: | 150+ |
Airalo’s eSIMs are available in 200+ destinations. The provider offers a reliable way to access the internet all around Europe through eSIM technology. However, Airalo currently only supports LTE connectivity in Germany. Their website also states that the speed of the data connection may change depending on the exact location. Read our Airalo review to find out more about this provider.
There are different eSIM plans that you can use in Germany. The data amount ranges from 1 GB to 20 GB. That said, the duration of the plans changes between 7, 15, and 30 days. The plans start at $4.50 for 1 GB, valid for seven days.
How to activate Airalo eSIM?
Download the app and scan the QR code. Upon scanning, your device will download the necessary settings to activate your eSIM. Some plans may activate automatically, so reading the plans and their conditions is highly recommended before you start the installation.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| ✅ Extensive global coverage (200+ countries and regions) | ➖ Limited 5G availability |
| ✅ User-friendly app and website | ➖ No traditional phone calls included (VoIP only) |
| ✅ Competitive pricing | ➖ May not be ideal for long trips due to data limitations and data caps |
| ✅ 24/7 chat support | |
| ✅ Various data plan options | |
| ✅ Integrates with some travel booking platforms (potential convenience) |
2. Holafly — eSIMs with flexible duration
| Feature | Parameters |
|---|---|
| Supports Cellular Networks: | 3G, 4G, LTE, 5G |
| Countries: | 190+ |
Known for its unlimited data plans, Holafly is available in 200+ countries worldwide. Users usually get all types of connectivity, including 3G, 4G, LTE, and 5G. Despite Holafly’s various network support and unlimited data plans, users report slower speeds after using a couple of gigabytes. Holafly explains this with its Fair Usage Policy on its website.
Nevertheless, Holafly is pretty unique when it comes to plans. eSIM plans are flexible regarding duration, yet they are pretty expensive. For example, one day of unlimited data in Germany costs $6. If you wanted to purchase a plan for a week, that would cost around $29. Compared to other providers on this list, it’s a hefty price to pay just for a week-long data plan.
How to activate Orange Holafly eSIM?
Visit Holafly’s website, customize your plan, and purchase it. Scan the QR code, set your eSIM profile as the primary carrier from your phone’s settings, and enable mobile data. Your eSIM will activate when you start using it.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| ✅ Available in 190+ countries | ➖ Doesn’t support tethering |
| ✅ Flexible duration | ➖ Relatively expensive |
| ✅ Technical support available | ➖ Only unlimited data |
3. Orange Holiday — Versatile eSIM plans for France
| Feature | Parameters |
|---|---|
| Supports Cellular Networks: | 4G LTE, 5G |
| Countries: | 100+ |
| Rating: | 4.4 ⭐ |
Orange Holiday’s eSIM plans are available in more than 100 countries. In Germany, users can benefit from 4G, LTE, and 5G network connections. However, while some plans fully support 5G, others are limited to lower-speed network types like 4G and LTE.
Talking about plans and pricing, Orange Holiday offers four plans for Germany. You can choose from 1 GB of data up to 100 GB. The validity period differs from 7 days to 14 days, and it extends up to 28 days. The cheapest plan Orange Holiday offers costs $5 and includes 1 GB of data, valid for a week.
How to activate Orange Holiday eSIM?
Connect to Wi-Fi and purchase a plan. Scan the QR code to install the eSIM profile. Enter your PIN code right before your trip or once you arrive at your location to activate your eSIM.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| ✅ Available in 100+ countries | ➖ Minutes included plans are expensive |
| ✅ Call minutes | ➖ eKYC required |
| ✅ Decent coverage |
4. Saily — Pocket-friendly eSIM deals
| Feature | Parameters |
|---|---|
| Supports Cellular Networks: | 3G, 4G, LTE, 5G |
| Countries: | 180+ |
Saily is an eSIM service recently launched by the same team behind NordVPN. Currently, it is available in 180+ countries but has rapidly expanded its network coverage. As for network types, users can reach all kinds of connectivity, including 5G with fast data speeds.
There are five different data plans to choose from in Germany. The data allowance ranges from 1 GB to 20 GB, and the validity period for those plans varies between 7 days and 30 days. Saily gives the most value for what you pay for, emerging as the best eSIM for Germany. The cheapest plan costs $4.49 for 1 GB and is valid for a week.
How to activate Saily eSIM?
Go to their website or download the Saily app. Register and receive a QR code and scan it. Follow the in-app instructions and activate your eSIM. Saily doesn’t require identity verification, meaning you can start using your eSIM immediately.
You can read more about Saily in our comprehensive Saily review.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| ✅ Easy one-click installation | ➖ Does not support phone calls |
| ✅ Wide coverage across over 180 countries | ➖ Limited regional plans |
| ✅ Flexible top-up options | |
| ✅ Affordable pricing starting at $2.99 | |
| ✅ 24/7 customer support |
5. JetPac — eSIMs with unique perks
| Feature | Parameters |
|---|---|
| Supports Cellular Networks: | 4G LTE, 5G |
| Countries: | 100+ |
JetPac eSIM is available in 100+ countries. Despite supporting fewer locations than its competitors, it offers many network connectivity options. Meanwhile, the 5G option has limited availability. JetPac also has unique perks. For example, if your flight is delayed, the provider allows you to access private airport lounges, which is a nice addition.
For Germany, JetPac offers eight different plans. Plans have various data options ranging from 1 GB to 40 GB. The validity periods start at four days and continue until 30 days. JetPac’s cheapest eSIM for Germany begins at $4 for 1 GB. However, it’s only valid for four days.
How to activate JetPac eSIM?
Scan the QR code you received upon registering. Scanning the code allows you to install the necessary profile settings. Then, enable roaming and complete the activation.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| ✅ Competitive pricing | ➖ Limited regional coverage |
| ✅ User-friendly app | ➖ No unlimited data plans |
| ✅ 24/7 customer support | ➖ No calls or messages |
| ✅ Airport lounge access | ➖ Slower speeds in remote areas |
| ✅ Fast speeds |
Things to Know Before Ordering an eSIM Card for Germany
When planning to use an eSIM card during your trip to Germany, keep these considerations in mind to ensure a smooth experience:
- Check which smartphones support eSIM cards: Not all smartphones are compatible with eSIM technology. Before purchasing an eSIM card, verify that your device supports eSIM functionality.
- Consider whether data-only plans suit you: Some eSIM plans might offer local calling options, while others provide data-only plans that may require you to use VoIP services like WhatsApp or Skype.
- Check if the provider offers tethering. Not all providers allow you to share data with other devices. If you plan to share your data with others or other devices, make sure the provider supports the tethering feature.
Tips When Using an eSIM in Germany
There are many benefits to using eSIM in Germany. Yet, you can always make the most of your eSIM. With the steps below, you can use your eSIM effectively:
Lower your mobile data usage
Reducing your mobile internet consumption might help your eSIM plan last for longer. Small changes in video streaming quality may significantly lower data usage, background app refresh limit, and automated app updates.
Use airplane mode
When you're not using your phone actively, turning on airplane mode is a good approach to saving data. Although in airplane mode, you may still connect to WiFi, conserving mobile data.
Download offline maps
Before your trip, download maps for offline access using Google Maps. Having these maps stored on your smartphone will let you get around without utilizing mobile data. This is very helpful when attempting to save data or in places with little network coverage.
Make calls over WiFi
Make your calls via WiFi so you can reduce mobile data use. Apps like WhatsApp, Skype, and FaceTime let you use WiFi to make audio and video conversations, negating the need for your eSIM data.
Are eSIM Cards the Best Way to Stay Connected When Traveling to Germany?
When traveling to Germany, staying connected is crucial, and choosing the right option can significantly impact your experience. Travelers generally choose from these three options:
Local prepaid SIM cards
These cards can be purchased easily upon arrival, often at airports or convenience stores. They offer good coverage and data plans tailored to the region. However, they require swapping out your home SIM, which is inconvenient.
International prepaid SIM cards
These physical SIMs offer the convenience of being ready before you land, with coverage across multiple countries, including Germany. They save you the hassle of finding a local SIM, but they often come at a higher cost and have limited data compared to local options.
eSIM cards
eSIMs combine the best of both worlds. They provide the freedom to digitally swap carriers without requiring a physical SIM card. Often, before you even leave the house, you can activate eSIMs and start using mobile data as soon as you land. For regular travelers or those visiting several countries specifically, eSIMs are a versatile and handy choice.
Where Can You Buy an eSIM Card for Germany?
Purchasing an eSIM card online before your trip is the most convenient option. Numerous providers offer eSIM plans you can buy and activate instantly from your smartphone. This allows you to have mobile connectivity when you land in Germany without the hassle of searching for a SIM card upon arrival.
If you prefer to buy an eSIM after arriving in Germany, you can also do so through online shops and carriers’ websites. However, remember to be connected to Wi-Fi during the purchase and activation process.
How to Activate and Use an eSIM in Germany
You can activate an eSIM in a few steps. Even though this changes from provider to provider, they share a similar activation procedure:
- Purchase the eSIM: Visit the provider's website or app to purchase the eSIM plan. You may need to provide details such as your email and payment information.
- Receive the QR code: After purchasing, you’ll receive a QR code via email or through the provider’s app. This code activates your eSIM.
- Activate the eSIM: On your device, go to your cellular settings, select “Add Cellular Plan,” and scan the QR code. Follow the prompts to complete the activation.
- Confirm activation: Once activated, your eSIM will appear in your device’s cellular plans. If you plan to use it for calls and data, set it as the primary plan.
Managing eSIM Settings
After activating your eSIM, you can manage it through your device’s settings. You can toggle between multiple eSIMs if you have more than one, switch between your eSIM and physical SIM for different uses, and set data limits to avoid overages.
Making Calls and Using Data
Set your eSIM as your main line in the cellular settings so you may make calls with it. Access your eSIM data via your phone app or VoIP service. Enable mobile data on your eSIM and switch off WiFi when data usage is not necessary. This will let you utilize applications, search the internet, and remain in touch wherever you are in Germany.
Final Thoughts
In summary, choosing the right eSIM provider can significantly enhance your travel experience wherever you go. Each provider we listed offers unique benefits tailored to different travel needs. Select the best option for your needs and stay connected effortlessly throughout your journey.
FAQ
1. How Much Mobile Data Do You Need?
The amount of mobile data you need depends on your usage habits. For light browsing and messaging, 3-5 GB might be sufficient, but if you stream videos or use GPS frequently, you might need 10 GB or more.
2. Are there any eSIM plans with unlimited data for Germany?
Yes. Some providers offer eSIM plans with unlimited data for Germany, though they might be more expensive. Reviewing the terms is essential, as some plans may have fair usage policies that could affect speeds after a certain threshold.
