The most popular modern choice, especially for newer phones. You can buy and activate these instantly via an app without visiting a physical store.

Convenient for immediate connectivity upon landing. Most major hubs like London Heathrow , Paris Charles de Gaulle , and Madrid Barajas have kiosks and vending machines. However, expect to pay a 20% to 30% premium for this convenience.

Visiting stores like Vodafone , Orange , O2 , or T-Mobile in city centers often yields better rates and allows staff to help with technical setup.

: Best overall pick for 2026. They partner with major networks (Orange, EE, Vodafone) and offer large data packages (up to 150GB) and in-person airport support.

Ideal for older, locked, or non-eSIM compatible phones. These are physical chips you insert into your device.

: Highly recommended for ease of use. Created by the NordVPN team, it offers a single eSIM that works across 200+ destinations.

: The best option for short-term travelers or those who only need small amounts of data (1GB–5GB).

About the author

Wei Zhang

Wei Zhang

Wei Zhang is a renowned figure in the CAD (Computer-Aided Design) industry in Canada, with over 30 years of experience spanning his native China and Canada. As the founder of a CAD training center, Wei has been instrumental in shaping the skills of hundreds of technicians and engineers in technical drawing and CAD software applications. He is a certified developer with Autodesk, demonstrating his deep expertise and commitment to staying at the forefront of CAD technology. Wei’s passion for education and technology has not only made him a respected educator but also a key player in advancing CAD methodologies in various engineering sectors. His contributions have significantly impacted the way CAD is taught and applied in the professional world, bridging the gap between traditional drafting techniques and modern digital solutions.