Why Local Carrier eSIMs Crush Holafly and Airalo for Value

A Traveler’s Perspective: 160+ Countries, Local SIMs Only

With over 160 countries under my belt, I’ve learned one unbreakable rule for staying connected: always buy a local SIM—or now, an eSIM—upon arrival. From the bustling bazaars of Istanbul to the serene beaches of Bali, local carriers deliver unbeatable value, offering vastly more data at a fraction of the cost of international eSIM providers like Holafly and Airalo. These providers tout convenience with pre-purchased plans for 190+ countries, boasting slick apps and instant activation. But my global experience proves they can’t match the affordability and generosity of local eSIMs in destinations like the United States, Thailand, France, Indonesia, Turkey, Japan, Italy, the United Kingdom, Australia, and Mexico. Here’s why local carriers are always the smarter choice.