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
Free eSIM trials let U.S. users test mobile networks without committing to a plan. Despite their growing availability, a survey of 3,535 respondents across the US, Canada, UK, France, Germany, Poland and Japan found that only 35% were aware of eSIM technology. This guide aims to bridge that gap and help you choose the best free eSIM trial in 2025.
Top 6 free eSIM trials in the U.S.
Below are the top options, with details on trial duration, data offering, phone compatibility, and plan options to help you decide which free eSIM trial is best for you.
1. T-Mobile Network Pass
T-Mobile Trial, formerly Network Pass, allows non-T-Mobile customers to experience the carrier’s network without switching their plans or phone number. It offers a 30-day free eSIM trial with unlimited premium data access, including perks like 250 GB of high-speed hotspot, free in-flight Wi-Fi, and 5 GB of high-speed data in Canada & Mexico.
Duration of the trial: 30 days
Data offering: Unlimited high‑speed data (no slowdowns based on use) plus perks like 250 GB hotspot, T‑Satellite messaging, Canada & Mexico data, in‑flight Wi‑Fi, T‑Mobile Tuesdays, and 4K streaming on capable devices
Phone compatibility: Must be a non‑T‑Mobile customer, have an unlocked eSIM‑capable device, and use the T‑Life app on your phone
Post/prepaid options: After the trial, users can switch to full T‑Mobile plans
Pros
Cons
Keeps your existing phone number and service during trial
Only available to non-T-Mobile users and once per year
Includes premium perks (hotspot allowance, messaging, in-flight Wi-Fi, streaming, etc.)
Some service features may have limitations depending on device capabilities and location
No credit check or payment required
Not available for international use, and requires setup via Wi-Fi and T-Life app
2. Verizon Free Trial
Verizon Free Trial allows non‑Verizon customers to test Verizon’s network via eSIM without changing their current plan or number. The trial offers 30 days of service, including unlimited talk and text plus up to 100 GB of Premium 4G/5G data.
Duration of the trial: 30 days
Data offering: Unlimited talk/text, up to 100 GB of Premium dat
Post/prepaid options: Keep your current service or switch to Verizon after the trial
Pros
Cons
High data cap (100 GB) to thoroughly test network performance
Speeds may slow after data cap or during congestion
Keeps existing number and service intact during trial
International or add-on features are not included
No payment or credit check required
Only available to users who haven’t tried Verizon Free Trial before
3. Visible Free Trial
Visible Free Trial allows new users to experience Visible’s unlimited service, via Verizon’s network, using an eSIM, with no contracts or credit card required. The trial includes 15 days of unlimited data, talk, text, and hotspot.
Duration of the trial: 15 days
Data offering: Unlimited 4G/5G data, talk, text, and hotspot
Phone compatibility: Unlocked, eSIM-capable device; not available for recent Visible users
Post/prepaid options: Choose between Visible or Visible+ plans when trial ends
Pros
Cons
No contract, no payment, and no credit check required
Trial is relatively short (15 days)
Includes unlimited data and hotspot access
Hotspot speed capped at 5 Mbps
Easy to use and truly commitment-free
Only available to truly new customers (past 12 months)
4. US Mobile 30-Day Free Trial
US Mobile offers new users a risk-free eSIM trial when porting their number over. This includes 30 days of service with 30 GB of data, plus unlimited talk and text, automatically transitioning to their Unlimited Premium plan unless changed.
Duration of the trial: 30 days
Data offering: 30 GB high-speed data, unlimited talk/text
Post/prepaid options: Auto-renews to Unlimited Premium plan unless you adjust before trial ends
Pros
Cons
Generous 30-day trial and sufficient data
Credit card needed for trial activation
Flexibility to switch plans before trial ends
Must port your number or accept a new one
Access to multiple networks for better coverage options
Limited to one trial per account
5. Cricket Wireless Try-Before-You-Switch
Cricket’s trial lets users test their network without interrupting current service, via eSIM or physical SIM. The 14-day free trial includes unlimited talk/text and 3 GB of data.
Duration of the trial: 14 days
Data offering: Unlimited talk/text, 3 GB of data
Phone compatibility: Works with unlocked, compatible devices; provides temporary number
Post/prepaid options: Switch to Cricket plans without service disruption after trial
Pros
Cons
No disruption to your current service
Very limited data (3 GB)
Helps assess coverage and call quality risk-free
Uses a temporary number during trial
Easy to set up with tryCricket app
5G availability may be spotty in some areas
6. Google Fi 7-Day Free Trial
Google Fi offers a short-term trial that runs alongside your current carrier service. The 7-day free eSIM trial includes unlimited talk, text, data (speeds slow after ~10 GB), hotspot, VPN, and spam protection.
Duration of the trial: 7 days
Data offering: Unlimited US talk/text/data (slows after ~10 GB), includes hotspot, VPN, spam blocking
Phone compatibility: eSIM-capable, unlocked device; works alongside current service
Post/prepaid options: Automatically renews to monthly Fi plan (~$50/month) unless canceled
Pros
Cons
Includes advanced features like VPN and spam blocking
Very short trial length (7 days)
Current carrier service stays active during trial
Data speeds may slow after ~10 GB
Easy to cancel before auto-renew begins
Credit card required to sign up
How to activate a free eSIM trial
Activating a free eSIM trial is quick and straightforward, though the steps can vary by provider and device.
In most cases, you’ll receive a QR code to scan or activation details to enter manually.
Step-by-step eSIM trial setup
Follow these simple steps to set up your free eSIM trial and get connected in minutes.
Check device compatibility: Make sure your phone supports eSIM. Most iPhones from the XS onward and Android devices like the Samsung Galaxy S20 or Google Pixel 3 and newer are eSIM-ready.
Choose a provider: Select an eSIM provider offering a free trial. Visit their website or download their app.
Sign up for the trial: Create an account or enter basic details such as your email or phone number. Some providers require identity verification via SMS or email.
Download your eSIM: Access the provider’s free trial page to receive your QR code, usually sent via email.
Activate your eSIM:
On iPhone: Go to Settings > Cellular > Add eSIM and scan the QR code.
On Android: Go to Settings > Connections > SIM Card Manager > Add mobile plan and scan the code.
Test your connection: Turn off Wi-Fi and confirm your phone connects to the mobile network.
Troubleshooting common activation issues
If your eSIM trial isn’t working as expected, these quick fixes can help you resolve the most common problems.
1. Device not recognizing eSIM
Check if your phone is eSIM-compatible.
If your device is carrier-locked, contact your carrier to unlock it.
2. No network connection
Restart your phone.
Delete and reinstall the eSIM.
Check the provider’s coverage map for your area.
3. QR code not scanning
Clean your camera lens.
Increase screen brightness on the device showing the QR code.
Manually enter the activation details.
4. Conflicts with existing SIM
Go to Settings > Cellular (iPhone) or SIM Card Manager (Android) to set your eSIM as the default for calls and data.
Temporarily disable your physical SIM to test the eSIM.
eSIM Alternatives for the U.S.
While free eSIM trials are a great way to test a network, they’re not always available to every user or may not cover your specific needs.
The providers below offer prepaid data plans that work in the United States, giving you flexible, contract-free connectivity without relying on a traditional carrier plan.
1. Holafly
Holafly is an international eSIM provider offering unlimited prepaid data plans for travel without roaming fees. It delivers unlimited local data for the USA and North America via emailed QR code, compatible with all eSIM-enabled smartphones.
Duration of the plan: Customizable by the number of days needed
Data offering: Unlimited high-speed data (4G/5G)
Phone compatibility: Any smartphone with eSIM capability
Post/prepaid options: Only prepaid plans; no postpaid available—refunds possible within 6 months for unused or incompatible service
Pros
Cons
Unlimited data—ideal for heavy usage
No local phone number, calls or SMS—data only
Full refund possibility within 6 months for compatibility or connection issues
Travel-only use; not meant for long-term or domestic eSIM needs
Immediate delivery via email; easy installation via QR code
2. Airalo
Airalo is an eSIM marketplace offering global coverage via prepaid eSIMs, enabling travelers to stay connected in over 200 countries. Users can install an eSIM and go online in minutes via the Airalo app or website.
Duration of the plan: Depends on the eSIM plan selected
Data offering: Prepaid data plans (local/regional/global); specifics depend on purchase
Phone compatibility: Compatible with iOS, Android, and eSIM-capable smartphones
Post/prepaid options: Prepaid only; no postpaid plans or trials—refill via app or website when data runs out
Pros
Cons
Access to eSIMs in over 200 countries
No free trial with data—plans must be purchased
Quick and easy activation via app or website
Users must pay upfront; cost varies by region
Flexible plans (local/regional/global) to match travel needs
No true trial—intended for prepaid travel use only
3. Ubigi
Ubigi provides global, prepaid eSIM data plans for mobile devices, with easy installation and management via app or web. It specializes in data-only connectivity across 200+ destinations, with lifetime eSIM validity and real-time usage tracking.
Duration of the plan: Depends on the data plan purchased—activation is immediate upon arrival
Data offering: Prepaid data; no voice or SMS
Phone compatibility: Must have a carrier-unlocked, eSIM-compatible device; works on smartphones, tablets, laptops
Post/prepaid options: Prepaid plans only; ability to top up via app/web; eSIM is permanent and re-usable
Pros
Cons
Reusable "lifetime" eSIM—no need to install new one when reloading
Data-only service—no traditional calls or SMS supported
Real-time usage tracking and easy top-up via app
Must have unlocked device; locked phones may not work
Works on smartphones, tablets, and Windows laptops via native app
No free trial; users must purchase data first
If you’re deciding between these prepaid options, Holafly stands out for travelers who want simplicity and unlimited data.
Compared to Airalo, it delivers truly unlimited U.S. data without caps, making it better for heavy users.
It also has an advantage over Ubigi by removing the need for ongoing top-ups, ensuring uninterrupted service for the entire plan duration.
Free eSIM Trial FAQ
1. Which eSIM offers free trials? Some eSIM providers like Ubigi and Truphone offer free trial data so you can test their service before buying a plan. These trials usually come with limited data and are available for a set period.
2. How can I get an eSIM for free? You can get a free eSIM profile by signing up with carriers or eSIM providers that offer no-cost activation. Some also provide small data allowances for testing without payment.
3. Can I get an eSIM without a contract? Yes, many eSIM providers offer prepaid or pay-as-you-go plans with no long-term contracts. This lets you purchase data only when needed.
4. How to activate eSIM on iPhone for free? If your carrier supports free eSIM activation, you can scan their QR code or use their app to install it without charges. Make sure your iPhone is unlocked and eSIM-compatible before starting.
5. Is there a monthly fee for eSIM? An eSIM itself doesn’t have a monthly fee, but the data or voice plan attached to it might. Prepaid options let you avoid recurring charges.
6. Does it take 24 hours to activate an eSIM? Most eSIMs activate instantly after installation, but some providers may take a few hours if verification is needed. Delays beyond 24 hours are uncommon.
7. Can I have multiple eSIMs on one phone? Yes, most modern smartphones let you store multiple eSIM profiles and switch between them as needed. However, you can typically use only one or two at a time depending on your device model.
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!
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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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