Relocating abroad or travelling for a short vacation requires you to have a reliable internet access. From staying in touch with family and friends to booking rides or finding directions, being connected makes travel easier and less stressful.
This is where eSIMs become useful. Instead of searching for physical SIM cards or relying on unstable Wi-Fi, you can activate mobile data directly on your phone. This makes it easier to stay online before and after you arrive at your destination.
If you’re a Nigerian planning an international trip and looking for a dependable eSIM option, this guide highlights some of the best eSIMs for international travel.
Top 9 Providers for Nigerians Travelling Abroad
The table highlights the key features of six affordable eSIM providers available to travellers in Nigeria.
| Platform | Supported Countries | Packages | Starting Price | eSIM Type |
| Cardtonic | 140+ | Local
Regional Global |
$1 | Data only |
| Saily | 190+ | Country
Region Ultra plan |
$3.99 | Data only |
| Roamify | 195+ | Country | $3.5 | Data + voice |
| Ubigi | 200+ | Local
Regional Global |
$2.9 | Data only |
| Eskimo | 100+ | Global | $7 | Data only |
| GoMoWorld | 190+ | Country | €3.99 | Data only |
| MobiMater | 190+ | Country
Region Global |
$11 | Data only |
| Firsty | 120+ | Global | Unspecified | Data only |
| Simify | 150+ | Local
Region Global |
$32 | Unlimited data only |
1. Cardtonic
Cardtonic’s eSIM is a new feature on the Cardtonic app. This eSIM comes in affordable packages and works in over 140 countries, making it suitable for short trips, long stays, and even multi-country travel.
What makes Cardtonic different from most standalone eSIM apps is integration.
Instead of juggling multiple apps, Cardtonic combines travel connectivity with essential financial tools. This means that on the same app, users can buy an eSIM, pay bills, access a virtual dollar card, and trade gift cards. This makes the app convenient for Nigerians who need both internet access and seamless payment options while abroad.
Cardtonic’s eSIMs plans are also flexible. You can browse country-specific, regional, or global plans directly in the app and choose what works best for your trip before you travel.
To get started, download the Cardtonic app, sign up, and explore the available eSIM plans. You can choose a plan, activate it, and stay connected, while managing your other travel expenses from one app.
2. Saily
Saily is a Nigeria-based eSIM provider with coverage in over 200 countries. After installing the eSIM, you can choose from individual country plans, regional bundles, or global packages, with prices starting at $3.99 for 1 GB.
Saily has built-in security features such as ad blocking, web protection, and an optional virtual location tool to help keep your online activity safe while travelling. The eSIM is easy to activate, and 24/7 support makes managing your plan straightforward.
3. Roamify
Roamify provides eSIM coverage in over 195 countries and offers a wider range of plan types. Alongside standard data-only plans, Roamify also has select options that include voice calls or SMS, which is useful if you need a temporary phone number while travelling.
Plans range from small data bundles to larger packages for longer stays, with prices starting at around $2–$5 for 1 GB. This flexibility makes it easier to choose between data-only plans or ones that support calls and texts, depending on your needs.
All plans are managed through the app, where you can view pricing upfront, switch plans, and monitor usage without contracts or hidden fees.
4. Ubigi
Ubigi eSIMs are data-only, so you’ll use apps like WhatsApp or Messenger for calls and messages instead of traditional SMS or phone minutes. The service is managed through an app where you can buy plans, top up data, and track usage, making it easy to stay connected on the go.
Ubigi works in over 200 destinations worldwide. You can choose from country-specific plans, regional packages, and global data bundles, with options ranging from small allowances to larger plans for longer stays. Plans often start from about $4 for 1 GB (7 days) or $9 for 500 MB (30 days), with larger bundles like 10 GB for around $24–$27, depending on the country.
5. Eskimo
Eskimo is a data-only eSIM provider that works in over 100 countries. You install the eSIM once and pick a data plan to stay connected wherever you go.
Eskimo’s plans come as fixed data bundles, such as $7 for 1 GB, $18 for 3 GB, or $39 for 10 GB. Once activated, the data can remain valid for up to two years, making it suitable for people who travel occasionally rather than frequently.
One useful feature is data rollover. Any unused data is carried over when you top up, so you don’t lose what you’ve already paid for. The eSIM is data-only, meaning calls and messages work through internet apps, and everything is managed easily from the app.
6. GoMoWorld
With GoMoWorld, you can manage your eSIM entirely through the app while keeping your main SIM active. Once installed, you pick a plan and stay connected using internet apps wherever you go. The app also lets you track your data usage and top up easily, so you never run out unexpectedly.
GoMoWorld works in over 200 destinations worldwide. Plans start from about €3.99 for 200 MB–500 MB for 7 days, making it perfect for short trips or for travelers who just need a small, flexible data bundle.
7. Mobimatter
MobiMatter operates as a global eSIM marketplace, allowing you to compare data plans from multiple telecom providers in one app. Instead of buying from a single network, you get access to different pricing options and coverage levels, making it easier to choose a plan that fits your destination and budget.
The platform supports eSIMs in over 190 countries, which makes it practical for travellers visiting more than one country on a single trip. Plans vary by provider, but you’ll find options such as 10 GB for around $11.99 in regions like the US and Europe, alongside regional and global packages.
Once installed, you can manage your eSIM, switch plans, or top up directly in the app.
8. Firsty
Firsty is a global eSIM provider designed to make travel connectivity simple and flexible. All you need to do is to install the eSIM once and then choose from plans that work in over 120 countries. You don’t need constant SIM swaps or local data purchases with Firsty.
The eSIM Plans come in different styles, from a free ad‑supported option that gives basic data access, to paid choices like Comfort+ or First Class that offer faster internet and better usage.
Firsty also lets you manage everything in one app, so you can track data, switch plans, or cancel when you want. Its global coverage and easy setup make it a good pick if you want an all‑in‑one eSIM that keeps you online all the time.
9. Simify
Simify is an eSIM you can install once and start using right away. Simply access their website or download the app, pick a plan, and stay connected whenever you travel.
It works in 150 –190 countries and offers both unlimited and fixed data plans. One popular option is $42 for unlimited data for 7 days, which is perfect if you just need internet for a short trip.
Everything is managed through the app, so you can track your data and top up easily. Simify eSIM is fast, reliable, and stress-free.
Frequently Asked Questions on Best eSIM Providers for Nigerians Travelling Abroad
- Who is the Best eSIM Provider for Nigerians Travelling Abroad?
The best eSIM provider for Nigerians travelling abroad is Cardtonic’s eSIM. It’s available directly in the Cardtonic app and costs just $1.50 to get started. Once the eSIM is installed on your phone, you simply choose a data plan and stay connected wherever you go.
- Can I Get an eSIM Online in Nigeria?
Yes! You can get an eSIM online in Nigeria. Most providers, including Cardtonic, let you install the eSIM on your phone directly from their app or website. You don’t need to visit a store or buy a physical SIM, just pick your plan, scan the QR code if needed, and you’re ready to go.
- How Much Does it Cost to Get a Global eSIM?
The cost of a global eSIM varies depending on the provider and the plan you choose. Some providers offer higher data bundles at premium prices, while others are more budget-friendly. For Nigerians, Cardtonic is one of the cheapest options
- Can I Get an eSIM that Supports Phone Number?
Yes, some eSIMs support a phone number, but not all. Most travel eSIMs are data-only, which means you’ll use internet apps to call or message instead of traditional SMS or voice. If you need a full number for calls and texts, make sure to check the plan before purchasing.
- Can the eSIM I Buy in Nigeria Work in Another Country?
Yes! Most travel eSIMs are designed for international use. Once installed, you can pick a plan that works in the country you’re visiting and stay connected without swapping SIMs or paying roaming fees.
Conclusion
Staying connected while travelling doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive. With the right eSIM, you can set up your internet before leaving Nigeria, avoid roaming charges, and skip the struggle of hunting for a local SIM abroad.
Whether you’re relocating, going on vacation, or travelling for work, having a reliable eSIM that fits your budget and destination makes the trip smoother and less stressful. It also gives you peace of mind, knowing your calls and apps will work the moment you arrive.
Finally, it’s advisable to choose an app that supports both your eSIM needs and other travel essentials, such as managing payments and handling expenses, so you can stay connected and organised throughout your trip.
