Roami was founded to serve as a trusted resource for travelers in need of reliable internet solutions abroad. Our team, comprising avid travelers, provides comprehensive reviews and guidance on data SIM cards, eSIMs, pocket WiFi devices, and free WiFi apps, drawing from firsthand usage during our travels.
The 5 Best eSIM Providers for Travel
1
Holafly –
unlimited data plans in popular destinations, ideal for seamless travel
2
Ubigi –
reliable high-speed eSIMs in 190+ countries, great for business or frequent travel
3
Nomad –
flexible pay-as-you-go data for easy trave
4
BNESIM –
custom data and call bundles for long-term travelers
5
Airalo –
affordable eSIM options and solid value for most travelers
Russia offers world-class cuisine with dishes like borscht, blini, and caviar. But without internet access, tourists might find it difficult to search for top restaurants or read reviews about them. So make the most of your journey with a reliable internet provider.
Not all phones support eSIM technology in Russia. iPhone XR and later models are compatible with most providers. Several companies offer eSIM services, including Holafly, Three HK, TravelSim, United Global, and Wificoin. Holafly offers unlimited data while other providers offer varied data plans. eSIMs can only be installed once, and users should contact providers if issues arise. When choosing an eSIM provider, it is important to consider the coverage as well.
This guide provides insights into eSIM providers, including coverage, pricing, and compatibility, while addressing common questions travelers may have.
What you should know about the eSIM for Russia
eSIM technology is still relatively new, so not all phones are compatible. Here’s everything you need to check before you buy:
Your cell phone must be compatible with an eSIM card. Also, check that your cell phone is supported by the carrier or eSIM card provider. The iPhone XR and later models are compatible with most providers.
You need an email address to receive your eSIM.
You need internet connection to activate your eSIM. Your eSIM profile will be downloaded from the provider after scanning the QR code or installation code.
Some providers will ask you to install their app to download the eSIM.
If you can’t buy an eSIM, you can purchase a physical SIM card for travelers instead.
Cellular eSIM card providers for travel to Russia
If you have a compatible phone, you will be able to purchase and activate a Russian eSIM card. If your phone is not compatible, we recommend a traditional physical SIM card to Russia.
Here are the companies that provide an eSIM for Russia.
Holafly
Three HK
TravelSIM
United Global
Wificoin
Rates and data plans from eSIM providers for travel to Russia
Take a look at the different packages offered to access the internet in Russia. Pay close attention to the prices of each provider, so you can choose the deal that suits you best.
Holafly plans and prices in Russia:
Unlimited data for 5 days at USD 23.90
Unlimited data for 7 days at USD 39.90
Unlimited data for 10 days at USD 47.90
Unlimited data for 15 days at USD 61.90
Unlimited data for 20 days at USD 72.90
Three HK plans and prices in Russia:
3GB for 30 days at $138 USD
13GB for 365 days at $268 USD
TravelSim plans and prices in Russia:
500MB for 30 days at 13 USD
1GB for 30 days at 19 USD
2GB for 30 days at 35 USD
3GB for 30 days at 53 USD
5GB for 30 days at 87 USD
United Global rates in Russia:
1GB for 30 days at $23.22 USD
3GB for 30 days at $61.93 USD
5GB for 30 days at $92.90 USD
Wificoin rates in Russia:
1GB for 30 days at $29.99 USD
5GB for 30 days at $99.99 USD
Comparison of eSIM providers for Russia
Provider
Data Plan
Days
Price (USD)
Sales channels
Holafly
Unlimited data
5
$23.90
Web
Holafly
Unlimited data
7
$39.90
Web
Holafly
Unlimited data
10
$47.90
Web
Holafly
Unlimited data
15
$61.90
Web
Holafly
Unlimited data
20
$72.90
Web
Three HK
3GB
30
$138
Web
Three HK
13GB
365
$268
Web
TravelSim
500MB
30
$13
Web
TravelSim
1GB
30
$19
Web
TravelSim
2GB
30
$35
Web
TravelSim
3GB
30
$53
Web
TravelSim
5GB
30
$87
Web
United Global
1GB
30
$23.22
Web
United Global
3GB
30
$61.93
Web
United Global
5GB
30
$92.90
Web
Wificoin
1GB
30
$29.99
Web, App Store, Play store,
Wificoin
5GB
30
$99.99
Web, App Store, Play store,
Table N°1. Comparison of eSIM providers in Russia
eSIM features to travel for Russia
To get the most out of your eSIM card, we’ve prepared some important information to bear in mind so that your trip to Moscow or any other city in Russia will be the best. We’ll also explain the differences between virtual eSIM cards and traditional physical cards.
Most eSIM cards do not offer phone calls, only data. You can use apps like WhatsApp or Skype instead.
eSIMs can only be installed once, so if you’re experiencing problems with your eSIM card do not remove it from your callphone instead, contact your eSIM provider.
Some eSIMs set up APNs automatically.
You can add several data plans on your iPhone, although it is only possible to use one at a time.
Some eSIMs allow you to share data between devices.
With your dual SIM iPhone, you can keep your local SIM when you travel to Russia.
eSIM coverage for travel to Russia
It’s important to consider your eSIM’s coverage. And remember that sometimes cheap eSIM cards have poor coverage, possibly leaving you without internet when you need it most.
Below you will find the coverage map of each operator so that you can get an idea of the extension of each of these servers in Russia.
3G MTS coverage map in Russia
MTS coverage map in Russia Source: GSMA
Tele2's 4G network coverage in Russia
Tele2 coverage map in Russia Source: Tele2
Beeline's 4G coverage map in Russia
Beeline coverage map in Russia Source: Beeline
Frequently asked questions about eSIM in Russia
We answer the most common questions you may have before purchasing your eSIM to travel to Russia.
Do I need a passport to buy the eSIM Russia card?
You don’t need to present your passport, but some providers might ask for your address.
Can I share data or activate tethering with eSIM in Russia?
Yes, some eSIMs allow you to share data between different devices.
How to activate eSIM for Russia?
Install the eSIM with a QR code from your email, chose it as the default cellular data medium, turn on the celullar data and data roaming, and your virtual SIM will work. Contact the company for more advice.
Do international prepaid eSIM cards work?
Yes, just like physical cards, virtual SIM cards also have an expiration date.
Adventurer, passionate traveler, and tech enthusiast. On Roami, I aim at sharing the best solutions to help you navigate the complexities of staying connected abroad, ensuring a hassle-free experience. I enjoy playing chess, reading Brian Greene, and exploring different cultures!
After you travel, it’s important to turn off your eSIM to avoid unnecessary charges or accidental ...
Our mission is simple: to make sure you never have to ask, “What’s the WiFi password?” again. All our tips come straight from personal experience — because we’d never recommend something we haven’t put to the test ourselves.
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