I just got back from an epic trip exploring the tropical paradises of the Philippines. As a travel blogger, I’m always looking to stay connected while visiting new countries. On my latest Philippines adventure, I tested out some of the top eSIM options to find the best plans for travelers in 2024.
After extensive testing across busy cities like Manila and remote islands like El Nido, I’m sharing my top picks for Philippines eSIMs this year. Whether you need lots of data or calling minutes, there’s an eSIM plan that will keep you connected on your Philippines trip. Let’s dive in!
An Introduction to eSIMs
For those new to eSIMs, let me give you a quick rundown. eSIMs are digital SIM cards embedded directly into your phone (no physical sim card required). They make it super easy to activate data plans and switch networks on the fly.
I love using eSIMs when traveling because:
- They’re easy to set up remotely – no visiting phone shops!
- You can use multiple networks by activating different eSIMs
- Much cheaper than international roaming
Many modern smartphone models support eSIM usage. To use one, your phone simply needs to be unlocked and eSIM compatible.
So if you want to save money and maximize connectivity on your Philippines trip, eSIMs are the way to go in 2024!
How I Tested Philippines eSIMs
I recently spent 3 weeks exploring the Philippines, testing eSIMs everywhere from bustling Manila to remote islands like Siargao.
To find the best Philippines eSIMs, I looked at these key factors:
Data speed and reliability: I ran speed tests to measure download speeds. In remote areas, I paid attention to overall network reliability.
Coverage and connectivity: I evaluated how consistently I stayed connected, especially in rural/remote regions.
Pricing per GB: To measure value, I calculated the price per GB for each eSIM plan. Lower is better!
Customer support: I contacted customer support to test response times and skill levels.
Through extensive testing, I found 6 eSIM plans that offer great connectivity values across the Philippines.
Next, let’s look at my top recommendations for Philippines eSIMs this year!
1. Nomad – Fast, Reliable, Great Value
Nomad is one of my favorite eSIM providers for traveling. Their Philippines country plan uses Globe’s fast and reliable mobile network.
I tested Nomad all over the Philippines and it delivered excellent speeds. In cities like Manila I got 60+ Mbps downloads over 5G. And I stayed consistently connected throughout rural island hopping.
Here’s an overview of Nomad’s Philippines plan:
Network: Globe (4G LTE and 5G)
Data Options: 1GB, 3GB, 5GB, 15GB
Price per GB: As low as $3.33 per GB
Speeds: Excellent, with 5G capability
Support: 24/7 chat via Nomad app
Their 5GB for 30 days plan offered the best overall value at just $16. And thanks to Globe’s stellar connectivity, I stayed connected everywhere with Nomad.
Their app also makes it simple to monitor data usage, pause/unpause the plan when needed, and get support.
For fast speeds at a fair price, Nomad is my current top Philippines eSIM recommendation for 2024.
2. Airalo – Flexible Local Network Options
Airalo is another excellent choice for Philippines travelers needing maximum flexibility.
They offer both Smart and Globe network options. So you can switch networks via their app when needed to maximize connectivity.
I tested Airalo’s 10GB Smart network eSIM plan to start. In congested Manila, I got a smoking fast 100mbps+ download over their 5G network.
Globe generally has better rural connectivity though. So when I hit remote areas like El Nido, switching to Airalo’s Globe plan kept me consistently online.
Here are Airalo’s vital stats for the Philippines:
Networks: Smart and Globe (4G LTE + 5G capability)
Data Options: 1GB, 3GB, 5GB, 10GB
Price per GB: As low as $2.13 on larger data packages
Support: 24/7 chat via Airalo app
I loved the flexibility to jump between Smart and Globe’s networks using the same eSIM provider. And with regular discounts, Airalo makes it easy to find an affordable data plan.
If you need to toggle networks to maximize Philippines connectivity, Airalo is a superb choice in 2024.
3. Maya – Best Unlimited Data Plan
Many Philippines eSIM data plans throttle your speeds heavily once you hit the data cap.
Maya takes a different approach with their unlimited data for the Philippines.
They offer 30 days of truly unlimited high-speed data for $29. Once you use 5GB in a day, speeds get throttled to 1 Mbps. But then you’re back at full 4G LTE speed the next day.
I found Maya’s throttled 1 Mbps still very usable for messaging, email, and basic maps. And I loved having my full speeds restored daily.
Here’s an overview:
Network: Globe (4G LTE)
Data Options: Unlimited data plan only
Speeds: Up to 100 Mbps downloads, with 5GB high-speed per day
Support: Email and in-app chat
If you need tons of worry-free data in the Philippines, Maya makes it easy with reliable connectivity and an unlimited plan.
4. Truphone – Most Global Network Options
Most Philippines eSIM options only cover the Philippines. But Truphone takes a different approach.
When you buy Truphone’s Global Data eSIM, you get affordable roaming data in over 80 countries – including the Philippines.
Rather than buy a separate plan for every country, Truphone makes managing data abroad simple with one global eSIM.
In my Philippines testing, speeds and connectivity were very solid over Globe’s LTE network. Their support team was also prompt and knowledgeable.
However, the catch is that Truphone doesn’t currently offer 5G in the Philippines. So while speeds were good, they can’t match a true 5G local network.
Network: Globe (4G LTE only)
Data Options: 500MB, 1GB, 3GB, 5GB
Price per GB: $7-$10 per GB
Support: 24/7 chat, email + 7 international phone numbers
If you want maximum global flexibility from one eSIM, Truphone is a great provider to consider.
5. Dent – Best Free Global Trial
If you want to test out an international eSIM with no commitment, try Dent’s free global trial.
They offer a free 300mb global trial that you can use to evaluate their connectivity in 70+ countries – including the Philippines.
In my testing, Dent used Smart’s mobile network in the Philippines. Data speeds were solid at an average of 35mbps during my trial. However, minimal data means you’ll burn through it quickly.
The main catch with Dent’s free trial is the tiny 300mb data allotment. But if you just need basic maps or messaging on landing in the Philippines, it is usable in a pinch!
Network: Smart (4G LTE)
Data Options: 300MB free trial or paid plans
Price per GB: N/A for free trial, otherwise from $9-$15 per GB
Support: Email support form
If you want hassle-free global connectivity with no commitments, test out Dent’s free trial when landing in the Philippines.
6. 1nce – Special 6 Month Plan
Finally, Germany-based 1nce offers an intriguing long-stay choice with a single 6 month, 5GB data plan.
Designed for extended trips, you get 5 full GB of PHP-only data for 6 months. The fixed price is also friendlier than monthly renewals with some options.
With 1nce you connect using Smart’s wireless network in the Philippines. In my tests, data speeds and connectivity proved reliable across Manila and other major islands.
However, the singular 5GB plan means you can’t adjust amounts month-to-month. And it’s pricier than some picks if you’re staying under 6 months.
But for long-term travelers and expats, 1nce delivers a steady connection with minimal recharges needed.
Network: Smart (4G LTE)
Data Options: One 5GB, 6 month plan
Price per GB: $4.99 per GB over 6 months
Support: In-app chat, email
For long haul visitors who crave simplicity, 1nce keeps you connected in the Philippines with one fixed, affordable plan.
Key Considerations For Choosing a Philippines eSIM
When deciding the best Philippines eSIM option for your trip, keep these key factors in mind:
Data Needs: Consider how much monthly data you realistically need based on your travel style and internet usage. Minimal users can get away with a 1-3GB plan. But frequent video streamers will chew through 5-10GB quickly.
Network Priorities: In remote regions especially, Smart and Globe have vastly different connectivity. So toggle network options (via Airalo, etc) if needed until you get the best local performance.
Trip Duration: Some plans make more financial sense for quick getaways, while monthly renewals are better for long vacations. Factor trip length into finding the best Philippines eSIM value.
Global Plans: If the Philippines is one stop on a worldwide trip, global eSIMs like Truphone let you minimize recharges everywhere you go. But you may sacrifice some speed or network technology (like 5G).
Once clear on priorities like these, picking your perfect Philippines eSIM plan becomes much easier!
The Bottom Line
Hopefully this breakdown gives you clarity on the top Philippines eSIM options for 2024.
I found Nomad and Airalo to offer outstanding connectivity and prices country-wide as a traveler. For unlimited data, Maya impressed with few limits. And for worldwide travelers, Truphone and Dent keep you affordably online everywhere.
With an awesome eSIM plan powering your devices, you’re ready to take on paradise island hopping, stunning rice terraces, and diving while staying conveniently connected.
Have any questions on finding the ideal eSIM plan for your Philippines trip this year? Hit me up in the comments!
