Top eSIMs for Australia: Affordable Data Plans for Tourists & Backpackers

Are you planning a trip to Australia and want to stay connected without breaking the bank? This comprehensive guide is designed for travelers and remote workers seeking the best eSIM Australia. We’ll compare the top eSIM providers and plans specifically for Australia, helping you make an informed choice based on your data needs, trip duration, device compatibility, budget, and network coverage.

Whether you’re exploring vibrant cities, venturing into the Outback, or working remotely from the Gold Coast, choosing the right eSIM is crucial for cost, coverage, and convenience. Read on to discover which eSIM options are best for your next Australian adventure.

Quick Comparison: Best eSIM Providers for Australia

Top Providers:

• Saily
• Airalo
• Jetpac
• Nomad
• Holafly

Key Selection Factors:

• Data needs: How much data you require for browsing, streaming, or work
• Trip duration: Short visits, long stays, or multi-country trips
• Device compatibility: Ensure your phone supports eSIM
• Budget: Find the best value for your needs
• Network coverage: Choose the right network for your destinations

Network Recommendations:

• Optus/Vodafone: Best for major cities (Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Perth)
• Telstra: Best for rural and remote areas (widest coverage outside cities)

Best eSIM for Australia: Why It’s Important for Travel

Whether you’re a digital nomad, remote worker, or simply want to share your journey with friends and family, staying connected in Australia is easier than ever with an Australian eSIM (Note: eSIMs are generally data-only and do not provide a local phone number for calls or SMS.). Unlimited data plans are a game-changer for travelers, providing internet connection to allow you browse, stream, and make video calls without worrying about running out of data or facing unexpected charges.

This eSIM (embedded SIM) is a virtual SIM card built directly into modern smartphones. It works just like a traditional SIM but without needing any physical card. Once you purchase a plan online, you receive an eSIM QR code that activates your mobile network instantly. The entire setup process can be completed in just a few minutes, making it highly convenient for travelers.

Having an eSIM with dual SIM functionality allows you to keep your home country’s SIM card active while using your Australian eSIM for local data. This means you can receive important messages and calls from home while enjoying fast, reliable internet on the go. For remote workers and those who rely on constant connectivity, this flexibility is invaluable—no need to swap out your physical SIM or juggle multiple devices.

Travelers prefer eSIM for Australia for several reasons, and those heading to other regions can also benefit from eSIM for Asia for fast activation and affordable data while traveling.

• No airport queues: Skip long lines at SIM counters
• No physical SIM risk: No chance of losing or damaging a SIM card
• Multiple plans: Store several eSIMs for Australia and other countries—ideal for multi-destination trips
• Cost savings: More affordable than traditional roaming
• Seamless activation: Activate from anywhere in the world

With Australia being a vast country where network reliability matters, an eSIM ensures access to navigation apps, ride-hailing services, banking apps, social media platforms, translation tools, and travel bookings at all times.

eSIM vs Physical SIM

Feature	Physical SIM	eSIM
Activation	Requires visiting telecom store	Instant digital activation
Switching Plans	Manual replacement	Single tap in settings
Roaming Costs	Usually high	Avoidable
Multiple Profiles	Limited	Multiple plans can be stored
Convenience	Can be lost or damaged	Permanently built-in

The comparison makes it clear that eSIM technology is superior, especially for international travelers who value convenience, affordability, and efficiency. eSIMs eliminate the need for physical cards, making them a more convenient and secure option for travelers.

Security and Trust with eSIMs

Security and trust are top priorities when selecting an eSIM provider for your travels in Australia. Opt for a provider with a strong reputation for secure, reliable connections such as BazTel’s eSIM services, which operates on the trusted Optus and Vodafone networks. This ensures you benefit from high speed data and seamless connectivity, backed by fair usage policies that protect your experience without hidden restrictions.

A reputable eSIM provider will also offer instant activation, so you can get online within minutes of landing in Australia. This hassle free process means you don’t have to worry about finding a local SIM card or dealing with complicated setup procedures. Look for providers with positive customer reviews and transparent policies to ensure your personal data remains protected throughout your trip.

With the right eSIM, you can travel with confidence, knowing your internet connection is secure, your data usage is fair, and your activation process is smooth and straightforward. Enjoy the freedom to explore Australia while staying connected, safe, and supported every step of the way.

Australia eSIM Provider Comparison

Provider	Network Coverage	Data Speed	Price Competitiveness		Best For	Verdict
BazTel	Nationwide, including regional areas using Optus and Vodafone	Fast and stable	Most affordable plans	Responsive and helpful	All travelers	Best overall
Airalo	Good in metro cities and regional towns	Moderate	Competitive pricing	Mixed reviews	Short trips, flexible top-ups	Best for affordability and flexible data plan options
Holafly	Western region focus	Good but capped	Expensive unlimited plan	Limited channels	Heavy users needing unlimited data	Best for unlimited data (fair use policy applies)
Nomad	Suitable for cities, operates on Optus	Fair	Competitive	Online only	Light travelers, flexible plans	User-friendly trial and flexible data only plans
SimOptions	Major city coverage	Good speeds	Higher pricing	Slow response	Occasional travelers	Not ideal for long stays
Jetpac	Good in cities, patchy in remote areas	Fast	Premium for additional perks	Online support	Travelers seeking perks	Best for travel perks (free VPN, airport lounge access)
Sim Local	Nationwide, including remote areas (Telstra network)	Fast	Good esim options	Online support	Budget travelers, short and long trips	Best for cheapest data plans
MaalTalk	LTE roaming, good for navigation/social	40–50 Mbps	Flexible pricing	Online support	Travelers needing flexibility	Best for flexible data usage
GigSky	Urban centers, patchy in remote	Good	Affordable	Online support	Urban travelers	Best for city use, not remote

Summary of the Best eSIM Providers and Plan Features

Typically, when evaluating the best eSIM providers for Australia in 2025, the usual suspects include Saily, Airalo, Jetpac, Nomad, and Holafly which are reviewed based on competitive pricing, coverage, and plan features.

However, there are many other eSIM providers who offer data-only plans, unlimited plan options, and regional plans for those visiting Australia and neighboring countries. Most alternative providers offer data-only plans, which do not include a phone number or local phone number, making them ideal for travelers who rely on messaging and video call apps.

Now, let’s take a closer look at why BazTel stands out among these providers.

BazTel: The Best eSIM for Australia

BazTel is positioned as the top-tier eSIM provider due to its well-balanced combination of features and competitive pricing compared to other providers. Unlike others that charge a premium for international connectivity or restrict data speeds, BazTel focuses on giving users an uninterrupted browsing and travel experience. BazTel offers a range of data plan options, including an unlimited plan designed for heavy users who need extensive mobile data. These plans are suitable for different types of travelers, ensuring reliable mobile data connectivity across Australia.

Why BazTel Outperforms Other Providers

1. Extensive Coverage: Baztel partners with reliable local networks (Optus and Vodafone), operating on Australia’s strongest networks to provide stable connectivity in not only populated cities but also semi-rural and regional travel destinations.
2. Transparent Pricing: Plans offer excellent value with no hidden costs. BazTel’s unlimited plan is subject to a fair use policy, ensuring high speeds up to a certain threshold. Holafly may claim unlimited data, but many users face speed throttling. BazTel avoids such restrictions beyond the fair use policy.
3. Simple Activation: Activation involves a single QR scan, and users can activate their eSIM using the provider’s app. No documentation, no physical stores, and no complicated processes. You can purchase and activate your eSIM directly from BazTel’s website or app.
4. Better Data Integrity: BazTel provides consistently high speeds suitable for video calls, maps, remote work, and social uploads, whereas some providers slow down after usage thresholds.

Plan Options by Duration

BazTel offers data only plans tailored for travelers who need internet access without voice or SMS services. For those visiting multiple destinations, BazTel also provides regional plans that cover Australia, New Zealand, and neighboring islands, making them ideal for multi-country trips.

Plan / Use-Case		Validity Period	Best For / Use Case	Notes / Ideal Scenario
Short-Trip / Layover	~ 1 GB	1–7 days	Very short visits, transit, brief stays	Basic browsing, maps, messaging only; suitable if you don’t need much data
Tourist / City Visit	~ 5–10 GB	~ 7–15 days	Standard holiday trips or 1–2 week itineraries	Social media, navigation, messaging, light video; check if this is enough data for your needs
Standard Vacation	~ 20–50 GB	~ 2–4 weeks	Longer vacations or multi-week stays	Frequent browsing, maps, streaming/downloads; consider how much data you typically use
Long Stay / Heavy Use	Large data / High-volume (or “unlimited-style” under fair-use)	Up to several weeks/months	Digital nomads, long stays, heavy data users	Streaming, hotspot/tethering, remote work, uploads; choose a plan with enough data for heavy use

These data only plans and regional plans are designed for a wide range of traveler profiles—from short weekend visitors to long-term explorers. Always assess how much data you need to ensure a smooth and worry-free experience.

How to Choose the Right Plan

When choosing a plan, it’s important to consider how much data you will need for your trip. Make sure to select a plan with enough data to cover your usage, whether it’s for navigation, streaming, or staying connected.

Device Compatibility

Before purchasing a BazTel eSIM, ensure your smartphone is eSIM compatible and unlocked by your home country carrier.

BazTel eSIM supports major devices, including:

• iPhone XS and later models
• Samsung Galaxy S20 series and above
• Google Pixel 4 onwards
• Selected Huawei, Motorola, and Oppo models

If your phone supports eSIM technology, it will work with BazTel.

Cheapest eSIM Options and Value for Much Data

• BazTel: 5 GB for 30 days at USD 5 (cheapest esim for short trips), 50 GB for 30 days at USD 29 (much data for a low price)
• Sim Local: 20 GB for 30 days at USD 25.25 (reliable coverage, good value for longer stays)
• SimOptions: 20 GB for USD 29.90 (average pricing)
• MaalTalk: 20 GB for USD 34.29 (flexible data plan, suitable for various needs)
• GigSky: 10 GB for USD 29.99 (average pricing and coverage can be patchy outside cities)

These providers offer some of the most affordable and practical data plans, with much data for the price, making them ideal for travelers who need enough data for navigation, streaming, and social media.

Unlimited Plan Options and Fair Use Policy

• BazTel: Unlimited data for 7 days at USD 21 includes hotspotting
• Sim Local: Unlimited data for 7 days at USD 30.75 and allows for hotspotting
• GigSky: Unlimited data for 7 days at USD 28.99 with no mention of hotspotting

Note: Unlimited plans are subject to fair use policy, which may include speed throttling or data caps after a certain threshold. Always review the fair use policy details before purchasing.

Plan Durations and Regional Plans

Plan durations range from a single day to up to a year, allowing you to match your data plan to your trip length. Regional plans are available for travelers visiting Australia, New Zealand, and nearby islands, offering cost-effective solutions for multi-country trips.

Choosing the Right Data Plan and How Much Data You Need

When selecting a data plan, consider how much data you need for your trip. Make sure you have enough data for your activities, such as navigation, streaming, and social media. Most eSIMs for Australia do not come with a phone number, as they are data-only services. They are suitable for messaging and video call apps like WhatsApp and FaceTime. Most eSIMs are data only or data only plans, and do not support phone calls or SMS unless explicitly stated. They are suitable for messaging and video call apps like WhatsApp and FaceTime.

Activation, Installation, and Connectivity

For detailed guidance, check out how to transfer eSIM from one Android phone to another.

eSIMs are generally activated by scanning a QR code sent via email, which can be done on the same phone or using the provider’s app. You can install your eSIM before your flight or activate it at the airport using free WiFi or a stable wifi connection. Free wifi is widely available in airports, hotels, and public places in Australia, making activation convenient.

Multiple eSIMs, Home Country SIM, and Device Compatibility

Many devices support multiple esims, allowing you to switch between your Australian eSIM and your home country SIM for calls, texts, or receiving OTPs. This is convenient for travelers who want to keep their home country number active. Always check that your device is esim compatible and unlocked by your home carrier before purchasing.

Extra Perks and Fees

Some providers offer airport lounge access or free lounge access as a perk (e.g., Jetpac’s free VPN and lounge access for delayed flights). Be aware that some providers may charge activation fees or extra charges for additional services.

Network and Coverage in Australia

When planning your trip to Australia, one of the most important factors to consider is the quality of your mobile network coverage. Australia’s vast landscape means that while major cities like Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane enjoy robust connectivity, remote areas and regional destinations can be more challenging to access. That’s why choosing the best eSIM provider for Australia is crucial for seamless connectivity wherever your travels take you.

Providers that leverage the Telstra network, such as Sim Local, are known for offering the best coverage, especially in remote regions and rural communities. Telstra’s extensive infrastructure ensures you’ll have high speed data not just in urban centers, but also when exploring the outback or less-traveled destinations. This is particularly important if you rely on Google Maps for navigation, need to check travel updates, or want to enjoy light streaming during downtime.

BazTel is focused on providing consistent coverage regardless of your location by offering coverage via Optus and Vodafone networks. This allows the traveler to toggle between two networks to attain the best coverage available at the desired location. Such an approach is more robust as there is never 100% coverage being provided by an individual network and so having overlapping network coverage increase the chance of better coverage.

For travelers who prioritize staying connected in both major cities and remote areas, selecting an eSIM for Australia that partners with top-tier networks guarantees you won’t miss a beat. Whether you’re uploading photos, checking emails, or simply staying in touch, a reliable eSIM means you can focus on your adventure, not your signal strength.

How to Activate BazTel eSIM

1. Visit the BazTel website
2. Select your preferred eSIM Australia plan
3. Make the payment
4. Scan the QR code emailed instantly—this can be done directly on the same phone you will use in Australia for added convenience. If needed, you can also scan a photo of the QR code from another device.
5. Enable data roaming, start browsing and stay connected

Before purchasing, make sure your device is eSIM compatible. If your device supports it, you can store and switch between multiple eSIMs for different destinations, making travel even easier.

The entire process is completed in less than two minutes.

Conclusion

When evaluating coverage, performance, pricing, ease of activation, and overall traveler experience, BazTel is undeniably the best eSIM for Australia. It addresses the real needs of modern travelers, reliable internet, cost control, flexible plans, and zero setup hassle.

While competitors like Airalo, Holafly, and Nomad provide acceptable good service for various type of travelers, BazTel remains the only alternative provider with global coverage that consistently delivers the perfect balance of affordability, usability, and performance.

Choosing BazTel means you can travel across Australia with confidence, knowing you are always connected, informed, hassle free and ready for the next adventure.

For a comprehensive overview of staying connected abroad, read the Ultimate Guide to Best eSIM Cards for International Trips.