Top eSIMs for Traveling in Taiwan
So, you’ve decided that you’re going to visit Taiwan. Great choice! Lush forests, stunning corals, and vibrant city life await you. There’s just one thing in your way…internet access (or rather, the lack of…😫)
If you’re looking for the best eSIM for your Taiwan trip, look no further. As someone who has lived here for almost 5 years and has had plenty of friends visit from abroad, here are my top two carrier recommendations: Holafly and Airalo.
In this article, we’ll dive into the basics of eSIMs, why I think these two are the best carrier options, the specific plans that they each offer, and exclusive discount codes to help you get started! Ready? Here’s why Holafly and Airalo are the top two eSIMs for traveling in Taiwan.
Basics of eSIMs
First off, what’s an eSIM?
An eSIM is a digital version of a physical SIM card. It’s programmed to allow you to connect to local carriers without the need to swap your existing SIM card out physically for a new one provided by a local company.
Why eSIMs over traditional SIM cards?
They allow you to access your original number and accounts with a simple toggle of a button. As someone who works remotely (and in marketing), this is especially helpful when I need access to text verifications for two-factor authentication.
You don’t have to worry about physically losing or damaging your original SIM card. Plus, you don’t have to carry around a safety pin to open that pesky SIM slot!
More sustainable; less waste. 🤷♀️ This is a sustainable and slow travel blog after all…
Which phones can use eSIMS?
Newer mobile devices from the majority of phone manufacturers have eSIM capabilities. Here’s a complete list of all the eSIM-enabled phones here.
So now that you’ve determined that you want to use an eSIM for your travels through Taiwan, here’s a breakdown of the top two carriers!
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1. Holafly
Holafly is my number one choice for eSIMs in Taiwan because they’re the only option that offers unlimited data. As I mentioned earlier, I work remotely and that means that convenient access to large amounts of data is absolutely essential. From quick email responses to uploading short clips on Youtube, Holafly’s unlimited data plans guarantee that I’ll have access to the internet whenever I need it.
Details About Holafly eSIM plans in Taiwan:
Holafly offers eSIM plans with unlimited data in Taiwan for 5, 7, 10, 15, 20, 30, 60, and 90 days. The plans connect at 4G / LTE speed and are paired through Chunghwa (the carrier with the most expansive coverage on the island). The eSIM does not give you a phone number or local SMS access but if you’re using internet-based messaging and calling, it will work fine. This is just important to note in case you plan on signing up for services that require a phone number or a Taiwanese SIM card. To install your eSIM, you simply have to scan the QR code sent to your email after purchase. I would recommend doing so before you hop on your flight. For more details, check out their Taiwan plans here and use the discount code “THESENSIBLEFAY” for 5% off!
Here Are The Top Holafly eSIM Plans In Taiwan:
If you’re traveling to other countries in Asia, Holafly also offers plans that work across 11 different countries. It may save you some money to purchase one plan and use the same eSIM the entire time. Read more about Holafly’s unlimited data eSIM plans across Asia here.
Here Are The Top Holafly eSIM Plans In Asia:
2. Airalo
Airalo is my second choice for eSIMs in Taiwan because it’s the largest eSIM store out there… and that means it has a reputation to live up to. Airalo offers some of the cheapest eSIM plans for the country and while that might not work for some travelers, it’s a huge plus for those on a budget. Why spend your money on data when you can spend it on quality souvenirs like delicious pineapple cakes and high mountain oolong instead? Taiwan, and Taipei in particular, have pretty good free wifi access, so for those who are thrifty, purchasing their cheapest 1GB Xie Xie plan for $7 can be a good deal.
Details About Airalo eSIM plans in Taiwan:
Airalo offers Taiwan-only local eSIM plans through their Xie Xie (Thank You) line. These eSIM plans offer data only and range from 1GB to 10GB. Airalo partners with Chunghwa and Taiwan Mobile and the plans begin once your phone pairs with a local carrier. Although Airalo doesn’t offer any unlimited options, they do give you the opportunity to top up any existing eSIM cards. So if you run low on data, you can always purchase more at a cheap cost. For more details, check out their Taiwan plans here.
Here Are The Top Airalo eSIM Plans In Taiwan:
Similar to Holafly, Airalo also offers regional plans that cover multiple countries in Asia. Use one eSIM for over 14 countries if you plan on bouncing from one country to the next.
Here Are The Top Airalo eSIM Plans In Asia:
There you have it, the top two eSIMs for traveling in Taiwan. If you’re interested in exploring other options, I recommend you check out the different offerings on Klook and Nomad. Happy travels!
Get Started On Your Taiwan Itinerary Here:
