Nomad eSIM: mobile data in 200+ destinations, hotspot included and no subscription required
Nomad is a native eSIM operator. It provides its own data plans by leveraging agreements with local carriers in each country, such as AT&T and Verizon in the United States, Orange and Vodafone in Europe, NTT DOCOMO in Japan, and China Unicom in China.
The company is based in Santa Clara, California. It holds a 4.4/5 rating on Trustpilot, a 4.8 on the App Store, and a 4.5 on Google Play, with over 30,000 reviews submitted on Trustpilot.
Coverage and plan range
Nomad offers International eSIM services in over 200 destinations and 10 regions, with coverage spanning Europe, North America, Asia, Africa, and beyond.
Three main plan categories exist:
- Country-specific plans: For a trip to a single destination. Prices start at $4.50 for 1 GB valid for 7 days.
- Regional plans: Europe, Asia-Pacific, Latin America, Middle East. Use a single eSIM for multiple countries within the same zone.
- Global plans: Nomad offers Global-EX plans for frequent travelers, with coverage lasting up to one year across 54 or 82 destinations.
Unlimited plans are also available, starting from $4 per day, which provide 1 GB of high-speed data before throttling to a lower speed.
⚠️ Important: Plans labeled as unlimited are not unlimited in the literal sense. For Europe, these plans include a set high-speed allowance, such as 37.5 GB over 5 days or 75 GB over 10 days at 5G speeds. After that, speeds are reduced. For most travelers, a fixed-volume plan will be cheaper and more predictable.
| Zone / Destination | Data Volume | Duration | Indicative Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Single country (e.g., France, Japan) | 1 GB | 7 days | from $4.50 |
| Asia-Pacific (regional) | 10 GB | Variable | ~$20 |
| Europe (unlimited plan) | 37.5 GB high-speed then throttled | 5 days | See official site |
| Global-EX (multi-destination) | Per plan | Up to 1 year | See official site |
⚠️ Prices are displayed in US dollars (USD). The final amount in your local currency depends on the exchange rate at the time of purchase. Check the total before confirming.
Installation and user experience
The recommended installation method is directly through the app with a single tap. You can also scan a QR code or configure the eSIM manually. You can install the eSIM before your trip while at home, provided you have a Wi-Fi connection.
Compatibility
Not all phones support eSIM technology. Most high-end models released since 2018 are compatible, but we recommend checking your device before making a purchase. Nomad provides a verification tool on their website.
Dual SIM and primary number
You can keep your primary SIM in your phone while using the Nomad eSIM for data. Remember to configure your phone settings so that mobile data routes through the Nomad eSIM to avoid roaming charges from your usual carrier.
Essentially, you remain reachable on your primary number for calls, SMS, and banking verification codes, while you browse the internet via the Nomad eSIM.
- Pre-departure installation: Possible from home via the app or by scanning a QR code. The eSIM activates only when you toggle it to active, not at the time of purchase.
- Usage tracking: The app allows you to monitor and manage plans, and it sends notifications when your plan is nearing its expiration or quota.
- Mid-trip top-ups: Refilling is simpler than buying a new eSIM. Additional data is added to the currently installed eSIM without requiring a fresh installation.
- Hotspot tethering: Tethering and hotspots are supported, which is not the case with all competitors.
- Trial eSIM: Every new user receives a free trial eSIM valid in 48 destinations.
- Loyalty program: Points are earned with every purchase through the app and can be redeemed for a free eSIM.
Calls and SMS
Nomad plans for Europe and Asia are data-only. They do not allow for traditional voice calls or SMS. To communicate, use apps like WhatsApp, Telegram, or FaceTime via your data connection, or use your primary SIM if you keep it active.
SMS plans are available for specific destinations, including the United States, the United Kingdom, and Canada.
Conditions, transparency, and support
You must install a new eSIM for every destination you visit, unlike some competitors that use a single eSIM for multiple locations. Keep this in mind if you are visiting several regions in sequence.
Data validity begins upon eSIM activation, not at the date of purchase. You can buy your plan in advance without losing any days.
Nomad provides 24/7 support, although live chat with an agent is not always available. If no advisor is reachable via chat, you will need to open a support ticket by email.
Regarding refunds, Nomad has a relatively flexible policy, especially if your phone turns out to be incompatible after purchase. Check the exact conditions on their site before buying.
Pros to look for in reviews
- Fast installation, often within minutes of landing
- Hotspot and tethering allowed, a rare advantage among travel eSIMs
- Good coverage in Europe, Asia, and North America according to user feedback
- Real-time usage tracking within the app
- Top-ups possible without reinstalling the eSIM
- Ability to keep your primary number active simultaneously
Red flags to watch for
- Unlimited plans have a fixed high-speed quota, not truly unlimited in Europe or Asia
- A new eSIM must be installed for each major region or destination
- Human support is not always available live, sometimes requiring an email ticket
- Coverage in Latin America and rural areas can be inconsistent according to user reports
- Prices are in USD, so account for exchange rate fluctuations
- No calls or SMS included in Europe and Asia plans