eSIM UK Explained: Best Data Plans and How to Stay Connected While Traveling

Staying connected during your UK trip shouldn’t be a headache. Long queues at airport SIM shops, confusing roaming charges, or unreliable hotel Wi-Fi can easily ruin your first day. That’s why many smart travellers are choosing a UK eSIM plan with instant QR over traditional SIM cards.

An eSIM is a digital SIM that’s built into your phone. No plastic card, no tray, no tech fuss. You just buy a plan online, scan the QR, and your phone connects to UK networks before you even leave the airport. Even better, most eSIMs let you travel across Europe without switching SIMs again and again.

UK mobile coverage is strong in most cities and towns. But network speeds, plan validity, and pricing can differ a lot between providers. This guide compares the top 10 options  from Baztel and EE to Giffgaff and Honest Mobile  so you know what works best for your trip.

Looking for global options? See our best eSIM cards for international trips for multi-country plans.

Best Prepaid eSIM UK Providers

We know every traveller doesn’t need the same type of eSIM. Some just want basic internet to book cabs and check WhatsApp. Others need more data for work, content, or Google Maps in new cities.

So instead of giving you one fixed option, we’re showing you what others are offering too, including brands like EE, O2, Giffgaff, and Honest Mobile.

This way, you can compare all top prepaid and tourist eSIM UK in one place. We’ve listed plans, setup steps, network info, and even the downsides clearly  so you know what you’re getting.

Planning a multi-country trip? We’ve also covered providers that give both UK and Europe eSIM packs.

Baztel – Simple UK Packs + Europe Options

If you’re flying to the UK soon and want internet from the moment you land, Baztel is the easiest way to go live. You don’t need to open any tray or search for SIM shops. Just buy a UK eSIM plan, get the QR instantly, and scan it.

Even if it’s your first time using eSIM, you’ll finish setup in under a minute. Our plans are prepaid, no documents, no KYC, and no app downloads. And if you’re also visiting France, Italy, or Spain, you can just switch to the Europe eSIM pack from the same dashboard. No need to change your SIM again.

Whether you’re spending a week in London or hopping through Edinburgh and Cardiff, Baztel gives you clean data packs that just work. Simple. Fast. No confusion.

Already in London or heading to Scotland soon? Download your eSIM before entering the UK. You can scan your QR and go live in under 60 seconds.

Quick Facts

• Coverage: UK + 120+ other countries
• Plans in UK: 1GB to 10GB (7 to 30 days)
• Supports 5G: No (4G plans only)
• Regional Plans: Yes – Europe eSIM available
• Network Used: Top-tier UK partners
• Hotspot Sharing: Supported
• Refund Policy: Refundable on request before use
• App Availability: No app needed
• Voice/SMS: Data-only (use WhatsApp or Telegram)

Plans & Pricing

Data Allowance	Price (USD)	Validity
1 GB	$3.00	7 days
3 GB	$6.00	15 days
5 GB	$10.00	30 days
10 GB	$29.00	90 days
50 GB	$62.00	180 days

Prices may vary during active offers. Always check the final rate before checkout.

How to Purchase

1. Go to baztel.co
   
2. Pick UK or Europe
   
3. Choose your plan
   
4. Pay by card or UPI
   
5. Get QR instantly in email and dashboard
   

Ease of Setup

We auto-detect your phone model. You just scan the QR and follow two simple prompts. The eSIM activates in under a minute with no app or tech help needed.

Customer Support

• Channels: Email + WhatsApp
  
• Availability: 24/7
  
• Average response time: Under 30 minutes

Pros:

• Instant activation with QR code.
  
• Europe packs included for cross-border travel.
  
• Web-based, no app clutter.
  
• Affordable short and long-term plans.

Cons:

• No unlimited data option yet.
  
• Data-only, no local calls or SMS.
  
• New brand, limited reviews online.
  
• 5G not available in UK packs.
  

What Makes Baztel Better Than Others?

Baztel keeps things clean. You don’t download any app. You don’t fill forms. And you don’t need tech skills. Just buy a plan, scan the QR, and your internet starts. If you’re also flying to Europe later, our combo plans save you the trouble of buying another SIM. One dashboard, multiple countries, that’s what we give.

EE – Tourist eSIM UK with Wide Coverage

If you’re visiting the UK for a week or two and want strong signals everywhere, EE is a popular choice. It runs one of the fastest networks in the country, with decent 4G and 5G support in cities and towns. For first-time travellers, they also offer tourist eSIM UK  you just buy online, activate via QR, and start using it.

EE’s eSIM support is good, but the setup feels slightly more complex than Baztel. You’ll need to go through their app or use the SIM swap option. Still, if your trip is focused around data and you’re okay paying a bit extra, EE gives you peace of mind in terms of network strength.

If you care more about brand trust and coverage than price, EE might work for you.

Quick Facts

• Coverage: UK-wide, strong in cities
  
• Plans in UK: Tourist packs with 10GB+, 14–30 days
  
• Supports 5G: Yes (select zones)
  
• Regional Plans: Not available
  
• Network Used: Native EE network
  
• Hotspot Sharing: Supported
  
• Refund Policy: No refunds once used
  
• App Availability: App required for activation
  
• Voice/SMS: Includes some local calls
  

Plans & Pricing

Data Allowance	Price (USD)	Validity
10 GB	$15.00	14 days
20 GB	$25.00	30 days
30 GB	$30.00	30 days

Prices may vary depending on roaming settings or region.

How to Purchase

1. Visit EE’s UK site
   
2. Choose “Pay As You Go eSIM”
   
3. Enter your details and email
   
4. Receive QR via email or download from app
   
5. Scan to activate
   

Ease of Setup

EE may ask you to swap your existing SIM or follow extra steps. If that feels complex, you can always buy your eSIM ahead of your UK trip from other providers with a simpler flow.

Customer Support

• Channels: App + Live Chat + Call Support
  
• Availability: 8am–8pm (UK time)
  
• Response time: Usually quick within working hours
  

Pros:

• Strong 4G/5G coverage across the UK.
  
• Tourist packs designed for short visits.
  
• Network reliability is among the best.
  
• Good roaming add-ons for Europe.
  

Cons:

• Plans are pricier than competitors.
  
• The setup process can feel a bit complex.
  
• Limited data on tourist bundles.
  
• Refunds are not always straightforward.
  

What Makes EE Different?

EE gives you access to one of the most stable and high-speed networks in the UK. It’s especially good if you’re sticking to London, Birmingham, or Manchester. But if you’re visiting multiple countries or prefer a one-click setup, Baztel may still be easier.

O2 – Prepaid eSIM UK with Local Perks

O2 is one of those networks that travellers often hear about once they land in London. It’s not the fastest, but the coverage is dependable. If you’re staying longer or planning to use local apps like Uber or food delivery, O2’s prepaid eSIM UK comes with decent data packs and a UK number.

One reason people go for O2 is the extra local perks. Some plans give free access to O2 WiFi hotspots or reward points. And if your phone supports dual SIM, you can switch to an eSIM once you reach the UK without removing your home number.

Just note that their online eSIM setup is slower compared to newer brands. You may need to verify your identity or wait for email confirmations.

Quick Facts

• Coverage: UK-wide, decent in urban and rural
  
• Plans in UK: Prepaid eSIMs for tourists and locals
  
• Supports 5G: Yes, in most cities
  
• Regional Plans: Not available
  
• Network Used: Native O2 network
  
• Hotspot Sharing: Allowed
  
• Refund Policy: Partial refunds possible if unused
  
• App Availability: Optional, but helps with tracking
  
• Voice/SMS: Includes a UK number and call minutes
  

Plans & Pricing

Data Allowance	Price (USD)
20 GB	$21.50
50 GB	$25.00
O2 Unlimited	$25.00

Prices may vary based on location or exchange rates.

How to Purchase

1. Visit O2’s international eSIM page
   
2. Choose prepaid option
   
3. Enter passport/ID (for some plans)
   
4. Wait for QR via email
   
5. Install manually or via app
   

Ease of Setup

The activation process isn’t fully automated. Expect delays if you sign up close to your flight. It is safer to get an eSIM before flying to the UK if you want it ready when you land.

Customer Support

• Channels: Phone, Twitter DM, Live Chat
  
• Availability: Weekdays 9am–6pm (UK)
  
• Response time: Slow on weekends
  

Pros:

• Prepaid eSIM packs with bonus rewards.
  
• Free O2 WiFi hotspots included.
  
• Decent 4G coverage in cities.
  
• Roaming in the EU at no extra cost.
  

Cons:

• Rural coverage is weaker than EE/Three.
  
• The 5G rollout is still patchy.
  
• Customer support is not very quick.
  
• Limited plan flexibility.
  

What Makes O2 Different?

O2 focuses on stability and local add-ons. Their tourist eSIM UK packs offer enough data plus the flexibility to use UK-based services. If you’re okay waiting a bit during setup, it’s a reliable choice for urban travel in the UK.

Three – Unlimited Data eSIM UK Choice

Three is the brand most people pick when they want big data packs without thinking too much. If you’re a tourist looking for heavy usage like Google Maps, YouTube, WhatsApp calls then this might suit you.

They’re one of the few UK providers offering an unlimited data eSIM UK that’s truly fast in cities. It works well across London, Manchester, Birmingham, and other major areas. Plus, their prepaid eSIMs now activate faster than they did a year ago.

However, if you’re heading into remote areas or plan to travel around Scotland or Wales, speeds may drop. Also, you won’t get international roaming unless you buy their premium plans.

Quick Facts

• Coverage: Strong in UK cities, weaker in rural
  
• Plans in UK: Unlimited and capped prepaid eSIMs
  
• Supports 5G: Yes, on most newer phones
  
• Regional Plans: UK-only (no EU in base plans)
  
• Network Used: Native Three network
  
• Hotspot Sharing: Allowed (with limits)
  
• Refund Policy: Not available for prepaid eSIM
  
• App Availability: Yes, for plan tracking
  
• Voice/SMS: Add-on required
  

Plans & Pricing

Data Allowance	Price (USD)	Validity
20 GB	$12.50	30 days
100 GB	$19.00	30 days
200 GB	$25.50	30 days
Unlimited eSIM	$44.00	30 days

Prices may change based on the provider’s website or local reseller.

How to Purchase

1. Go to Three’s international eSIM portal
   
2. Pick your plan (data-only or unlimited)
   
3. Enter email and payment
   
4. Get QR instantly or install via app
   
5. Activate when you land
   

Ease of Setup

Quick and app-friendly. You can download your eSIM before entering the UK and activate it after turning off airplane mode.

Customer Support

• Channels: Chatbot, Live Chat (limited hours)
  
• Availability: UK time, Mon–Sat
  
• Support for eSIMs: Some delays if you face issues during weekends
  

Pros:

• Popular unlimited data eSIM option.
  
• Fast 5G speeds in big cities.
  
• Good balance between price and data.
  
• Strong global roaming coverage.
  

Cons:

• Unlimited plan has a fair usage cap.
  
• Customer support not 24/7.
  
• Some users report mid-day speed drops.
  
• Setup instructions can confuse first-timers.
  

What Makes Three Different?

Three is ideal for digital nomads, students, or tourists who stream, navigate, or video call a lot. If all you want is simple unlimited data without too many steps, it checks all boxesjust don’t expect fancy perks.

Giffgaff – Flexible Pay-As-You-Go eSIM UK

Giffgaff feels like a friend who gives you freedom. You’re not tied into anything. You buy your eSIM ahead of your UK trip, choose a plan, and that’s it. No documents, no questions.

It runs on the O2 network, so the coverage is solid across most UK towns. Plans are called “goodybags,” and you can skip, change, or pause them. It’s all online, and their community forums are surprisingly helpful for setup issues.

But here’s the thing  if you’re not tech-savvy, the activation process might feel slightly DIY. There’s no app, and support is mostly community-based. Also, once you activate the plan, the countdown begins so don’t activate too early.

Quick Facts

• Coverage: Good UK-wide via O2
  
• Plans in UK: Data-only and full service
  
• Supports 5G: Yes, in many areas
  
• Regional Plans: UK only
  
• Network Used: O2 infrastructure
  
• Hotspot Sharing: Yes
  
• Refund Policy: No refunds after activation
  
• App Availability: No official app
  
• Voice/SMS: Available on most plans
  

Plans & Pricing

Data Allowance	Price (USD)	Validity
25 GB	$19.90	30 days
30 GB	$35.90	30 days
80 GB	$39.90	30 days

Converted from GBP, actual rates vary slightly.

How to Purchase

1. Visit Giffgaff’s official website
   
2. Pick a “goodybag” plan
   
3. Order your eSIM (QR code arrives by email)
   
4. Install via Settings > Mobile Service
   
5. Activate after reaching the UK
   

Ease of Setup

It’s not instant, but not hard either. You may need to follow a few manual steps to activate and link the plan.

Customer Support

• Channels: Forums, Community, Limited email
  
• Availability: No live chat or call centre
  
• Support for eSIMs: Mostly peer-driven help
  

Pros:

• No contracts, true flexibility.
  
• Cheap plans for light users.
  
• Easy to top up via app.
  
• Good community support forum.
  

Cons:

• No unlimited eSIM plans.
  
• Runs on O2, so rural coverage is weaker.
  
• Customer service is online-only.
  
• Data speeds slower in peak times.

What Makes Giffgaff Different?

It’s ideal for travellers who want control without commitment. If you’re okay doing a bit of reading or asking questions in forums, this gives you a smart, budget-friendly eSIM option while in the UK.

Honest Mobile – Eco-Friendly Prepaid eSIM UK

Honest Mobile is not your average provider. It’s a certified B Corp that plants trees for every user and runs on 100% renewable energy. If you’re someone who wants to choose the right eSIM for the UK while staying climate-conscious, this is worth a look.

The coverage is good. They use Three’s network. You get UK numbers, 5G speeds, and full access to calls and texts. The eSIM comes quickly after purchase, and setup is simple. They even reward you for staying longer with loyalty credits.

But here’s what to watch: prices are on the higher side compared to other tourist options. And the plans are more tailored to UK residents. Still, for eco-minded travellers, it’s a responsible option that works just fine for short stays.

Quick Facts

• Coverage: UK-wide via Three
  
• Plans in UK: Data + Calls + Texts
  
• Supports 5G: Yes
  
• Regional Plans: UK only
  
• Network Used: Three UK
  
• Hotspot Sharing: Yes
  
• Refund Policy: 14-day refund if unused
  
• App Availability: Yes
  
• Voice/SMS: Included
  

Plans & Pricing

Data	Price (USD)	Validity
4 GB	£13.50	30 days
10 GB	£17.50	30 days
Unlimited	£25.00	30 days

Converted from GBP. Plans include UK number + calls/texts.

How to Purchase

1. Go to Honest Mobile’s website
   
2. Pick a plan and complete ID check (if asked)
   
3. Receive eSIM QR code by email
   
4. Scan and install on your phone
   
5. Plan activates immediately or on selected date
   

Ease of Setup

Very smooth and beginner-friendly. Clear instructions, fast delivery, and responsive app.

Customer Support

• Channels: Live chat, email, in-app
  
• Availability: Weekdays, UK time
  
• Support for eSIMs: Full step-by-step
  

Pros:

• Carbon-neutral network, eco-friendly approach.
  
• Transparent pricing, no hidden fees.
  
• App makes plan management simple.
  
• Fair data rollover on prepaid packs.
  

Cons:

• Limited to a smaller user base.
  
• Coverage not as wide as EE/Three.
  
• No unlimited data eSIM UK yet.
  
• Slightly higher cost than budget rivals.

What Makes Honest Mobile Different?

You’re not just buying data, you’re supporting a green initiative. Honest Mobile makes it easier to travel consciously and still stay connected.

iD Mobile – Budget-Friendly eSIM UK for Tourists

If you’re searching for tourist eSIM UK, iD Mobile might surprise you. It’s backed by Currys and runs on Three’s network. That means good coverage, reliable speeds, and plans that don’t burn a hole in your wallet.

You can order online, choose a prepaid data bundle, and get a UK number with calls and texts. The eSIM setup is fairly quick, and there’s an app to manage everything once you land.

But, iD Mobile is still fine-tuning its eSIM offering. Their website doesn’t always make the eSIM info obvious. And their customer support isn’t built for tourists, response times can be slow. But once it’s installed, the plan works well and gives you enough data to roam around London or Edinburgh without worry.

Quick Facts

• Coverage: UK-wide via Three
  
• Plans in UK: Data + Calls + Texts
  
• Supports 5G: Yes
  
• Regional Plans: UK only
  
• Network Used: Three UK
  
• Hotspot Sharing: Yes
  
• Refund Policy: Not always available
  
• App Availability: Yes
  
• Voice/SMS: Included

Plans & Pricing

Data	Price (USD)	Validity
15 GB	£6.00	30 days
30GB	£7.00	30 days
50GB	£8.00	30 days

Prices approximate. May vary based on conversion from GBP.

How to Purchase

1. Visit iD Mobile website or app
   
2. Choose a prepaid eSIM plan
   
3. Create account and verify details
   
4. Receive eSIM QR via email
   
5. Install and start using in the UK
   

Ease of Setup

Decent for basic users. Slight delays possible during verification or account setup.

Customer Support

• Channels: Email, community forum
  
• Availability: Limited hours
  
• Support for eSIMs: Improving, but not instant
  

Pros:

• Some of the cheapest prepaid eSIMs.
  
• Data rollover included.
  
• Decent UK 4G coverage.
  
• Works well for short visits.
  

Cons:

• No 5G on all plans.
  
• Roaming outside the UK is not strong.
  
• Customer support limited hours.
  
• Smaller data packs run out quickly.

What Makes an iD Mobile Different?

It’s a low-cost way to stay connected without overpaying. For travellers on a budget, iD Mobile covers the basics and covers them well.

ParentShield – Special eSIM UK Plans for Children

If you’re traveling with kids and want peace of mind, find a prepaid eSIM UK and it is built for child safety. That’s exactly what ParentShield offers. It’s designed for children, with full parental controls baked in.

You can monitor calls, block unknown numbers, limit data use, and even turn off mobile data during school hours. The eSIM works across all major UK networks, switching automatically for better signal. It’s not your average travel eSIMbut for families, it’s a smart pick.

However, the price is higher than regular eSIMs. And you’ll need to order in advance as delivery and setup can take a couple of days. Still, if safety is your top concern, especially for younger kids with smartphones, ParentShield is worth considering.

Quick Facts

• Coverage: UK-wide, all major networks
  
• Plans in UK: Calls, SMS, limited data
  
• Supports 5G: No
  
• Regional Plans: UK only
  
• Network Used: Multi-network switching
  
• Hotspot Sharing: Not available
  
• Refund Policy: No refunds once active
  
• App Availability: Yes (for parents)
  
• Voice/SMS: Fully supported
  

Plans & Pricing

Data	Price (USD)	Validity
1 GB	$13.00	30 days
5 GB	$21.00	30 days
10 GB (soft cap)	$28.00	30 days

All plans include parental controls. Prices may vary slightly.

How to Purchase

1. Go to ParentShield official site
   
2. Choose the child plan that fits your need
   
3. Enter child and guardian info
   
4. Receive SIM/eSIM via email/post
   
5. Install and control via dashboard
   

Ease of Setup

Takes longer than typical eSIMs. Parental dashboard setup required.

Customer Support

• Channels: Email, phone
  
• Availability: Weekdays only
  
• Support for eSIMs: Yes, but slower on weekends
  

Pros:

• Designed for kids and parents’ safety.
  
• Full parental controls on calls and data.
  
• Clear activity reports provided.
  
• UK-only, safe and secure usage.
  

Cons:

• Not suited for tourists or adults.
  
• Data packs are very small.
  
• Pricier compared to regular SIMs.
  
• Limited device compatibility.
  

What Makes ParentShield Different?

This is the only eSIM UK provider focused fully on child protection. It’s not cheap but it’s one less thing for parents to worry about.

Sky Mobile – Prepaid eSIM UK with Data Roll-Over

If you prefer to buy your eSIM ahead of your UK trip from a mainstream telecom brand, Sky Mobile is a decent choice. Their eSIMs support both data and calls, and the standout feature is their “Roll” system: any unused data rolls over for up to 3 years.

Sky Mobile runs on the O2 network, which gives strong nationwide coverage. The plans are flexible, and you can share rolled-over data across family members if you’re traveling together. It’s ideal for longer stays or slow data users.

But there’s a catch: activation can be tricky for non-residents. You’ll need a UK address and a few extra steps for ID verification. Also, customer support for tourists isn’t as fast as global eSIM providers. Still, for frequent UK visitors or those staying a while, Sky offers value.

Quick Facts

• Coverage: UK-wide via O2 network
  
• Plans in UK: Data, calls, texts
  
• Supports 5G: Yes
  
• Regional Plans: UK only
  
• Network Used: O2
  
• Hotspot Sharing: Allowed
  
• Refund Policy: Yes, 14 days (unused)
  
• App Availability: Yes
  
• Voice/SMS: Fully supported
  

Plans & Pricing

Data	Price (USD)	Validity
5 GB	$10.00	30 days
15 GB	$17.00	30 days
50 GB	$30.00	30 days

Includes unlimited data eSIM UK. Price may vary by exchange rate.

How to Purchase

1. Visit Sky Mobile’s official website
   
2. Choose “Pay Monthly” SIM
   
3. Fill in UK address + ID details
   
4. Select eSIM option
   
5. Scan QR and start using
   

Ease of Setup

Medium. Requires a UK address, eSIM activation can take 12–24 hours.

Customer Support

• Channels: Phone, live chat
  
• Availability: UK business hours
  
• Tourist Support: Limited
  

Pros:

• Unused data rolls over for later.
  
• Runs on O2 network, decent coverage.
  
• Good bundle deals with other Sky services.
  
• Flexible monthly prepaid packs.
  

Cons:

• 5G is still expanding slowly.
  
• Plans are not the cheapest.
  
• No dedicated tourist eSIM.
  
• Customer service is not very fast.
  

What Makes Sky Mobile Different?

It’s the only provider here that lets your unused data roll over for years. That’s great if you return to the UK often and don’t want to waste data.

Smarty – Cheap Unlimited Data eSIM UK

If you want something affordable and straightforward, Smarty is a solid pick. You can switch to an eSIM once you reach the UK and enjoy unlimited data without paying a premium. It’s built for value-seeking travelers who don’t want complicated setups or surprise charges.

Smarty runs on the Three network, which covers most of the UK. Their unlimited plan is competitively priced, with no contract or credit checks. Just pick your plan, get the QR code, and you’re good to go. You can even pause or cancel the plan any time, perfect for short trips.

While support may not be as responsive as global eSIM brands, Smarty still works well for tourists who want maximum data at minimum cost.

Quick Facts

• Coverage: UK-wide via Three
  
• Plans in UK: Unlimited and capped data
  
• Supports 5G: Yes
  
• Regional Plans: UK only
  
• Network Used: Three
  
• Hotspot Sharing: Yes
  
• Refund Policy: No refund on used plans
  
• App Availability: Yes
  
• Voice/SMS: Supported

Plans & Pricing

Data	Price (USD)	Validity
12 GB	$10.00	30 days
Unlimited*	$22.00	30 days

Fair usage cap: 100 GB/month for roaming users.

How to Purchase

1. Go to Smarty’s website
   
2. Pick a data plan
   
3. Choose eSIM delivery
   
4. Scan QR and connect instantly

Ease of Setup

Easy. Designed for quick eSIM switch without hassles.

Customer Support

• Channels: Chat only
  
• Availability: 9 AM – 6 PM (UK time)
  
• Tourist Support: Basic FAQs and helpdesk

Pros:

• Known for affordable unlimited data plans.
  
• No contracts, cancel anytime.
  
• Full 5G access included.
  
• Easy online activation.

Cons:

• The unlimited plan has a fair usage limit.
  
• Coverage weaker in remote areas.
  
• Support is online-only, no helpline.
  
• No voice minutes bundled, data-only focus.

What Makes Smarty Better?

Unlike many providers, Smarty gives you a high data cap at a low price. It’s made for heavy streamers and city explorers.

Key Takeaways

Whether you’re heading to London for business or exploring the Highlands for leisure, staying connected is non-negotiable. With so many prepaid eSIM UK options, tourists now have more control than ever over how they use data abroad.

Each provider listed here has something different to offer. Some give you unlimited data, others focus on eco-friendliness, and a few are designed just for kids. The trick is simple: choose the right tourist eSIM UK based on how long you’re staying, how much data you need, and what kind of experience matters most to you.

Want to skip airport queues? Buy your eSIM ahead of your UK trip. Prefer to test it after landing? No problem just switch to unlimited data eSIM UK and stay online without delays.

No paperwork. No shop-hopping. Just scan, activate, and start using your data wherever your UK adventure takes you.