Are you traveling to Montenegro? While you explore stunning landscapes, historic towns, and vibrant culture — remember to stay connected for convenience and safety. Although, this can sometimes be a challenge. That’s where eSIM technology comes in.
An eSIM is a digital version of a traditional SIM card. Unlike a physical SIM, an eSIM allows you to activate and manage a mobile data plan through your device’s interface. For travelers, using an eSIM means avoiding the hassle of swapping SIMs or dealing with roaming charges. This is only the tip of the iceberg when it comes to the advantages of an eSIM.
Yet, choosing the right eSIM is the key to making your trip go smoothly. In this article, I’ll talk about the best eSIMs for Montenegro. I will also discuss what factors you should be considering when it comes to choosing a provider. By the end of this article, you’ll have a clear plan to fulfill your communication needs on the go.
How We Rank eSIM Providers
While we strive to provide an objective ranking, our recommendations are grounded in thorough research and key factors such as:
Reliability
Network quality and consistency across different regions in Germany
Pricing
Value for money and competitive rates for data packages
User Ratings
Customer satisfaction and reviews from real travelers
Ease of Use
Simplicity of activation, app interface, and setup process
Extra Features
Additional benefits like tethering, multi-device support, and customer service
📌 Note: Prices and features may change, so we always recommend checking the latest details on the provider's official website before purchasing.
Best eSIM providers for Montenegro
There is an exhaustive list of eSIM providers offering their services. Yet each has unique benefits that suit different travel needs. I’ve selected these providers based on criteria such as network and coverage, plans and pricing, customer support, and user reviews. Later, I’ll compare them to help you find the best fit for your trip.
Airalo
best eSIM for regional coverage
Networks
3G, 4G, LTE, 5G
Countries
200+
If your road map extends beyond Montenegro, you need a provider with wide regional coverage. With Airalo, you don’t have to worry about which eSIM for Europe is the best for your next stop. Instead, you can easily swap plans using their app. The provider is available in over 200+ countries and destinations worldwide. Known for its reliable and good-quality network connection, I recommend it, especially for multi-country trips.
Network and coverage. Although the network you connect depends on your device and your exact location, Airalo supports all types of cellular networks, from 3G to LTE up to 5G. In Montenegro, the typical connection you may experience will be LTE. However, it’s possible for this to fluctuate throughout the day.
Plans and prices. Airalo’s “Jezero” bundle for Montenegro consists of six plans, with data caps ranging from 1 GB to 20 GB. As for the validity of the plans — Airalo’s standard 7-15-30 days validity applies to this bundle as well. Typically, the higher the data cap, the longer the duration is. That said, the cheapest local eSIM plan for Montenegro costs $4.50 for 1 GB of data, valid for 7 days.
Customer support. With Airalo, you can access support through multiple channels. Use the live chat feature on their website or app if you need assistance urgently. Their Help Center is packed with FAQs and troubleshooting guides to help you solve the most common issues on your own. You can also reach out through their contact form.
User reviews. Despite its popularity, Airalo scored a 2.6-star rating on review sites. According to user comments, connection quality and signal strength provided were praised. However, many were upset about the technical glitches they encountered.
Pros
- ✓ Wide coverage
- ✓ 24/7 helpful customer support
- ✓ Tethering is available
- ✓ Regional, global, and local plan variety
- ✓ Good plan variety for Montenegro
Cons
- • Plans that include phone calls and texts are expensive
- • No unlimited data for Montenegro
Saily
best for inexperienced users
Networks
3G, 4G, LTE, 5G
Countries
200+
If you haven’t used an eSIM before, I highly recommend Saily. Its app is user-friendly and easy on the eye. Installing and activating an eSIM is quite straightforward — even the least tech-savvy individuals can set up their eSIMs in a few minutes. Besides that, with Saily, you connect to the best network available. This is because the provider is partnered with multiple operators in a single destination. Learn more about Saily in my Saily review.
Network and coverage. Saily’s Montenegro coverage is pretty good, as you can connect to any type of network with it. It’s good to keep in mind that the connection type depends on many factors, like your device, location, and the time of the day.
Plans and prices. Saily has 5 different plans for Montenegro. You can choose a data cap from 1 GB up to 20 GB. The validity period of the plans usually depends on the amount of data they carry. That said, typically, plans have 7-30 days validity. The cheapest plan for Montenegro costs $3.99, and it includes 1 GB of data that’s valid for a week.
Customer support. Saily offers multiple ways to contact customer support. If you need instant replies, their 24/7 live in-app chat is ideal. For further questions, you can send an email, and for basic troubleshooting, the FAQ section on their website should be helpful.
User reviews. Saily scored a stellar 4-star rating on review platforms. Reviewers liked Saily mostly because of its ease of use and good coverage. A few left negative feedback, mentioning weak signals in certain countries.
Pros
- ✓ Switching plans don’t require a reinstall
- ✓ 24/7 responsive customer support
- ✓ Top-up available
- ✓ Affordable prices
- ✓ Allows tethering
Cons
- • Doesn’t include traditional phone calls and texts
- • No unlimited data plans
Nomad
fast internet speeds for Montenegro
Networks
4G LTE, 5G
Countries
190+
Many travelers like Nomad, especially those who are looking for a variety of data plans and fast internet speeds. Covering 190+ destinations worldwide, Nomad promises lightning-fast speeds as well as decent coverage. I particularly recommend Nomad if you use the internet for streaming and data-intensive activities online. To learn more about this provider, check out my detailed Nomad review.
Network and coverage. Nomad supports 3G, 4G, LTE, and 5G networks. In Montenegro, users typically get a 4G or 5G connection. However, this also depends on the plan. Some plans Nomad offers provide you with a 5G connection — though they are pricier.
Plans and prices. For Montenegro, there are 7 plans to choose from. One of them supports a 5G connection. That said, plans’ data allocations vary from 1 GB up to 20 GB. As for the duration of the plans — they range from 7 days to 30 days. The cheapest eSIM plan for Montenegro that Nomad offers costs $4.50. The plan includes 1 GB of data and is valid for 7 days.
Customer support. There are two main ways to contact Nomad. If you need quicker replies, choose the in-app chat on the Nomad app. For cases that aren’t urgent, you could reach them via the ticketing system on their website.
User reviews. Nomad has an excellent reputation online, scoring a 4.4-star rating on the review sites. Users mostly think that Nomad has fair prices. A few mentioned that the app needed updates as some technical features were missing.
Pros
- ✓ Good worldwide coverage
- ✓ 24/7 customer support
- ✓ Allows tethering
- ✓ Seven local plans for South Korea
- ✓ Regional and global plans available
Cons
- • Limited validity period options
- • No traditional call minutes and text messages
Holafly
unlimited data plans for Montenegro
Networks
3G, 4G, LTE, 5G
Countries
200+
Holafly is a slightly different provider from the ones I talked about earlier. The provider only offers unlimited plans, and their service extends to 200+ destinations globally. One thing I like about Holafly is that their plan durations are extremely flexible. You can pick any validity period from a day up to 90 days.
Network and coverage. Holafly typically allows users to connect to 3G, LTE, and 4G networks. Although 5G availability depends on your device and exact location, you can connect to 5G in Montenegro with Holafly.
Plans and prices. Unfortunately, Holafly’s unlimited plans and flexibility come at a rather high price. For Montenegro, an unlimited data plan that’s valid for only a day costs $7.90. The longer the validity period, the more expensive your plan is going to be. Those who are planning to share their plan with other devices must know that the tethering is limited to 500 MB daily. In addition, Holafly applies a Fair Usage Policy (FUP). Because of this policy, users may experience slower internet speeds after a few GBs of usage.
Customer support. Holafly provides several ways for users to contact customer support. For urgent inquiries, you can chat with an agent through WhatsApp or the chatbox on their website. If you have general questions, they have email support, too.
User reviews. On the review sites, Holafly has a 4.6-star rating. Users mostly praise the helpful and reliable assistance they get from customer support. On the flip side, many reviewers complained about the connection issues. There are also comments pointing out the discrepancy between plans’ pricing and the daily data limitations.
Pros
- ✓ Flexible validity selection
- ✓ 24/7 customer support
- ✓ Allows tethering
- ✓ Offers unlimited data plans
- ✓ Regional and global plans available
Cons
- • Plans are expensive
- • No limited data plans
aloSIM
for travelers who need a local phone number
Networks
LTE, 5G
Countries
200+
The last name on this list is aloSIM. This eSIM provider is particularly useful for those who want to get a cheap temporary phone number alongside an eSIM plan. However, it’s good to mention that the phone number doesn’t belong to aloSIM — instead, you need to use their sister app called Hushed.
Network and coverage. In Montenegro, aloSIM has two partners — One and m:tel. The expected network connectivity is LTE. However, this may fluctuate throughout your trip, depending on the exact location and time of the day you connect.
Plans and pricing. If you want easy access to the internet in Montenegro, there are 6 data-only plan options on aloSIM. The data cap of these plans starts at 1 GB and goes up to 20 GB. The duration of the plans changes between 7-15-30 days. Typically, the more data you get, the longer the plan is. The cheapest plan costs $4.50 for a GB of data, valid for a week. Unfortunately, aloSIM doesn’t offer unlimited data plans for this destination yet.
Customer support. Users may contact support via the live chat feature on the aloSIM app. They also have email support available for general questions. For basic troubleshooting, the FAQ section on their website may be useful.
User reviews. aloSIM got a 4.2-star review on Trustpilot. Users are generally happy with aloSIM’s services. The most praise goes to its helpful and agile customer support. Meanwhile, some reviewers mentioned that in specific destinations, the connection quality and the overall performance weren’t the best.
Pros
- ✓ Comes with an international phone number
- ✓ Responsive customer support
- ✓ Easy top-up
- ✓ User-friendly app interfaceData calculator to track usage
- ✓ Data calculator to track usage
Cons
- • No unlimited plans for Montenegro
- • Plans don’t include call minutes or text messages
Comparison table of eSIM providers for Montenegro
| Provider | Countries covered | Starting price | Validity period | 24/7 customer support | Tethering | Unlimited data |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Airalo |
🌍 200+
|
$4.50 (for 1 GB) | 7 days | ✓ Yes | ✓ Yes | ✓ Yes |
| Saily |
🌍 200+
|
$3.99 (for 1 GB) | 7 days | − No | − No | − No |
| Nomad |
🌍 190+
|
$4.50 (for 1 GB) | 7 days | − No | − No | − No |
| Holafly |
🌍 200+
|
$7.90 (for unlimited GB) | 1 day | − No | − No | − No |
| aloSIM |
🌍 200+
|
$4.50 (for 1 GB) | 7 days | − No | − No | − No |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Find helpful information to answer common questions about eSIMs in Montenegro
Does Montenegro support eSIM?
What is the best eSIM for Montenegro?
Are eSIMs safe to use in Montenegro?
Can I use an eSIM outside of Montenegro while roaming?
What to consider before choosing an eSIM for Montenegro
When selecting an eSIM for Montenegro, there are several key factors you should consider to ensure a smooth and hassle-free travel experience.
- It indicates how often you will receive it and how strong your signal will be, which is essential. Montenegro’s diverse landscape, from mountainous regions to coastal towns, means you’ll want a provider with reliable network coverage throughout the country. This way, you stay connected even if you’re exploring rural areas.
- Nobody likes to wait several minutes when they are simply browsing, so speed is another critical factor. If you plan to use navigation apps, make video calls, or share photos and updates online, reliable high-speed internet will be important to avoid interruptions. Remember, the network type you connect to often determines the speed.
- Look for plans that align with your budget and data needs. Whether you require a small amount of data for occasional use or a larger allowance for constant connectivity, find a cost-effective plan. This way, you avoid splurging on data plans and focus on the experiences during your trip.
- Responsive support. Technical difficulties happen. However, choosing an eSIM provider with a lightning-fast response time makes tough times easier. Go with a provider that has a good track record when it comes to customer relationships.
- Fast activation. Whether you are new to eSIMs or a seasoned user, you want to select an eSIM provider with a straightforward process from purchasing to installation and activation. Having clear instructions for every step of your experience matters.
How to activate an eSIM in Montenegro
Activating an eSIM is simple. In general, the steps you’ll need to take don’t drastically change no matter what your provider is or your device. But it’s essential to keep an eye on the steps provided by your device and chosen provider
Below, I’ll guide you through the activation process for both iPhones and Android devices.
eSIM activation on iPhone
Activating an eSIM on an iPhone can be done in a few quick steps. Follow along:
- Open the Settings app and go to Mobile Data (or Cellular).
- Tap Add eSIM or Add Cellular Plan.
- Choose Scan QR Code and use your iPhone’s camera to scan the QR code provided by your eSIM provider. Alternatively, if the provider has sent manual activation details, you can enter these manually.
- Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the setup.
- Once activated, set your eSIM as the primary data line if you want it to be the default connection.
Tip: If you encounter issues, ensure your iPhone is updated to the latest iOS version and restart your device after activation. For Montenegro, check if the provider’s network has strong coverage in the areas you plan to visit.
eSIM activation on Android devices
If you are an Android user, follow the steps below:
- Open the Settings app and navigate to Connections.
- Select SIM Card Manager or Mobile Networks.
- Tap Add Mobile Plan or Add eSIM.
- Choose Scan QR Code and use your phone’s camera to scan the QR code sent by your provider. If provided with manual activation details, you can enter them directly.
- Follow the on-screen prompts to finalize the activation.
Tip: On newer Android phones, the eSIM option is readily visible under SIM settings. For older models, check the manufacturer’s specifications to ensure the device supports eSIM functionality.
You can activate your eSIM and enjoy connectivity throughout Montenegro by following the steps above. If you encounter any issues, your eSIM provider’s support team can assist with troubleshooting.
Making phone calls with an eSIM in Montenegro
Using an eSIM in Montenegro raises common questions about making phone calls. While eSIMs primarily focus on data, there are ways to stay connected for voice calls.
Here, I’ll explore the options available, including internet-based calling apps and provider-specific features, to help you make the right choice.
Using voice-over-IP (VoIP) with data
Voice-over-IP (VoIP) services like Skype, WhatsApp, and Viber provide an excellent alternative to traditional voice calls while traveling in Montenegro. These apps use your eSIM’s data connection to enable voice and video calls. This way, you bypass the need for cellular minutes. Popular VoIP services are widely available, provided you have a stable internet connection.
WhatsApp is great for quick calls to family and friends, while Skype offers additional features like low-cost international calls to landlines or mobile numbers. Viber is another option known for its user-friendly interface and free calls between app users.
eSIMs with airtime for calls
Some eSIM providers offer plans that include airtime for traditional voice calls. If you need more than just data, then these plans make a practical choice. With plans that have airtime, you can make regular calls, often through a virtual number, which allows you to be flexible, similar to a standard SIM.
In contrast, data-only eSIMs are designed for internet-based activities, such as browsing, streaming, and VoIP calls via apps like WhatsApp or Skype. While data-only plans are often more affordable, eSIMs with airtime are ideal for users who prefer traditional calling methods. Choosing between the two depends on your communication needs while traveling.
International calling apps
Major international calling applications are compatible with eSIM data, so travelers to Montenegro can keep in touch. Such apps make free, widely used, and incredibly user-friendly app-to-app calling possible. Google Voice is a flexible choice for maintaining contact, as it enables cheap international calls to both landlines and mobiles.
There are also cheap international calling apps that don’t require both parties to install the app. Travelers looking for affordable and dependable methods to contact loved ones while in Montenegro will find such apps convenient.
Benefits of using an eSIM in Montenegro
Using an eSIM in Montenegro has many benefits. Let’s explore what eSIMs are good for and how they can make staying connected during travel easy and efficient.
- Hassle-free to use. No more swapping physical SIM cards. With an eSIM, you don’t need to fumble with tiny SIM trays or worry about losing your original SIM while traveling. This digital solution allows you to activate a data plan instantly, even before you arrive. This way, you get immediate connectivity upon landing.
- Consistent coverage. Whether you’re exploring the Adriatic coast, hiking in the mountains, or visiting historic towns, you can rely on your eSIM to maintain a stable internet connection. Many eSIM providers connect to multiple local networks, offering the best possible signal wherever you go.
- Convenience at your fingertips. eSIMs eliminate the need to search for local SIM cards or rely on expensive roaming plans. With just a few taps, you can choose and activate a plan tailored to your data needs, saving time and effort.
- Cost-effective. eSIMs provide travelers with affordable options compared to traditional roaming charges or purchasing physical SIM cards from local providers. Many eSIM plans are competitively priced and allow you to pay only for the data you need, avoiding hidden fees or the high costs associated with international roaming.
Overall, eSIMs offer unparalleled convenience and flexibility. They are valuable for your travels, no matter where you visit. On top of that, eSIMs suit every type of trip, be it leisure or business. An eSIM simplifies the process of staying online so you can focus on enjoying your trip.
Final thoughts
In conclusion, eSIMs are a convenient and efficient solution for staying connected while traveling in Montenegro. With a variety of options available, travelers can select a plan tailored to their specific needs, whether they prioritize broad coverage, affordable pricing, or a simple activation process.
For those who primarily need data, eSIM providers with flexible plans and strong local network partnerships are ideal. Regardless of your travel plans, choosing the right eSIM provider can simplify your journey, eliminate the need for physical SIM cards, and provide reliable connectivity across Montenegro. Take time to compare providers based on your itinerary, and communication needs to find the best fit for your trip.
An eSIM offers a seamless, sustainable, and hassle-free way to stay connected. It allows you to focus on exploring Montenegro’s beautiful landscapes and rich culture without worrying about connectivity issues.