Arriving in Australia, many Singaporean travellers are excited to explore its stunning landscapes, vibrant cities, and unique culture. However, staying connected can be tricky with high roaming charges and long queues for local SIM cards. Enter the Australia eSIM — the perfect solution for seamless connectivity.
The best eSIM for Australia provides instant access to mobile data as soon as you land. Whether you're using iPhone, Samsung or other devices, eSIMs provide greater convenience, flexibility, and cost savings compared to traditional SIM cards. With high-speed 4G/5G coverage, you'll stay connected without any interruptions. Here’s everything you need to know about using an eSIM in Australia.
What is an eSIM?
An eSIM, or embedded SIM, is a software-based digital SIM card embedded directly into a device. Unlike physical nano-SIM cards that you can insert and remove, an eSIM is pre-installed and integrated into the firmware of smart devices.
eSIMs enable you to securely activate and manage multiple cellular data plans over-the-air, without having to insert different SIM cards.
Must-have Apps for tourists in Australia
Australia is vast, and while it's known for its natural beauty, navigating the cities and country areas requires the right apps. From booking transport to ordering food and exploring local attractions, these apps will make your trip much smoother. With mobile payments becoming more common and transport systems slightly different from what you may be used to, here’s a list of must-have apps for your Aussie adventure.
| Category | Recommended Apps |
| Payment apps | Apple Pay, Google Pay, PayPal, Commonwealth Bank App |
| Transport apps | Uber, Lyft, Citymapper, Transport NSW (Sydney) |
| Map/navigation apps | Google Maps, Maps.me, Waze |
| Translation apps | Google Translate, iTranslate |
| Food delivery/discovery | UberEats, Menulog, Deliveroo |
| Attraction booking | Trip.com |
| Train booking | Trip.com |
| Communication apps | WhatsApp, Facebook Messenger, Telegram |
💡 Pro tip for using Apps in Australia
Australia’s public transport systems can vary from state to state, so make sure to download apps like Transport NSW (for Sydney) or Citymapper to help you navigate. For mobile payments, both Apple Pay and Google Pay are widely accepted, and it's always a good idea to link your local bank account to keep things seamless. Make sure to download your essential apps before you land and activate your eSIM early for uninterrupted service across the country.
👀Pro Tip: When planning your visit, consider booking your flights to Sydney early to snag the best deals and keep an eye out for promotions. For a comfortable stay, explore our curated list of Sydney hotels, perfect for every budget and style.4 steps on how to get an Australia eSIM
Here is a step-by-step guide to obtaining an Australian travel eSIM:
Step 1: Check your device compatibility
Not all devices support eSIM. First of all, you need to check whether your phone support Australia eSIM. Here's the list of compatible devices.
Step 2: Choose an eSIM provider and plan
Popular choices for Australians eSIMs include Airalo, Truphone, AlwaysOnline Wireless, and more. Compare their tourist data plans, prices, validity periods, guarantees, and instructuions.
Step 3: Purchase a data package
Once registered, browse and purchase a preferred data-only plan via their website or app. Opt for coverage duration, data amounts, any talk/text allowances etc. keyed to your travel schedule and needs. Popular durations are 7-days, 14-days or 30-days.
Step 4: Download and activate the eSIM
To activate your Australian eSIM, simply scan the QR activation code provided at purchase using your phone’s camera. This will trigger the eSIM download and installation process. Follow the prompts to finish activation and reboot the device. Remember to have Wi-Fi access for large downloads.
Comparison of the best Australia eSIM providers
Airalo
Airalo is a popular choice, offering eSIMs under the brand "Yes! Go!" which uses the Optus 4G/LTE network. They provide various data plans such as 2 GB for 15 days, 3/5/10/20 GB for 30 days. However, these plans are not 5G-ready, which might be a consideration if you're looking for the fastest data speeds.
Holafly
Holafly is known for its unlimited data plans, making it a great option if you expect to use a lot of data. Their eSIMs connect to the Optus network and offer unlimited data, providing stable coverage across Australia. Holafly also boasts excellent customer support available 24/7 in multiple languages.
Truphone
Truphone offers a range of eSIM data plans tailored to different usage needs. Truphone provides good value, especially for those needing large amounts of data, with the 100GB plan. The plans are straightforward, making it easy for travellers to choose based on their data needs. Truphone's eSIM works across 123 countries, which is beneficial for frequent travellers.
AlwaysOnline Wireless (AOW)
AlwaysOnline Wireless is known for its flexibility and catering to short-term, high-demand data needs. AOW specialises in offering on-demand data, making it an excellent choice for users who need temporary internet access. They provide competitive rates and extensive coverage, particularly useful for business travellers or those needing connectivity in a pinch.
Trip.com
Trip.com is a one-stop travel service provider with a huge selection of hotels, flights, and attractions across the globe. On Trip.com, you can have multiple plans for your needs, including data package, validity period, quantity and more. What you can choose is flexible and customisable!
How to activate an new Australia eSIM?
How to activate?
- Open the eSIM activation email, and the eSIM activation QR code will be displayed in this email.
- Click Settings on your mobile phone and open Cellular (ios) or SIM Card Management (Android).
- Click to add a Cellular Plan (ios) or SIM Card (Android), and then agree to download Cellular Plan (ios) or SIM Card (Android), after that, use the mobile phone to scan the QR code to download.
How to use Internet?
- After the download is successful, close the primary card if you already have.
- Enable the Cellular Plan (ios) or SIM Card (Android).
- Turn on roaming to connect to the network and then can surf the Internet normally.
Note: If there is no network after enabling, please turn on the airplane mode and then turn off or restart the phone.
How to close?
- Open the open Cellular (ios) or SIM Card Management (Android).
- Cick to turn off the Cellular Plan (ios) or SIM Card (Android)
👀Note: The steps of enabling and disabling are the same.
What are the differences of eSIM, SIM and WIFI?
Check the difference of eSIM, SIM and WIFI and choose the one that best for you.
| Feature | eSIM | SIM | WIFI |
| Type | No physical card, embedded | Physical card | Wireless network |
| Purpose | Connects devices to mobile network | Connects devices to mobile network | Provides wireless network access |
| Activation | Digitally | Needs to insert | Requires access point and password |
| Operator | Supported by some operators | Supported by all major operators | Doesn’t depend on the operators |
Using your Australia eSIM
You can use your eSIM plan in Australia just like a regular SIM card once setup:
Make calls & send SMS
If your plan includes talktime and texts, you can call and message Australian numbers or back home. Calls within Australia are often bundled into plans cheaper than PAYG rates. Be sure to check your eSIM, since not all the Australia eSIM support calls and messages.
Mobile data access
With data allowances now activated, turn on mobile data to access maps for navigation, apps, social media, streaming and internet access while touring Australia. Most plans today are data-centric catering to this need.
Monitoring usage
Log into your eSIM provider account online or via app to track data consumed so far during the validity period. This helps avoid nasty overages or service suspension upon exceeding included amounts.
Topping Up
Running low on data, talktime or text limits before your trip is over? Many providers allow easy online top-ups via payment gateways for continuation of service as per your ongoing travel requirement.
Be aware that while using eSIM services locally, initiating or receiving international roaming calls/texts can still incur hefty charges. So turn off roaming capabilities manually for avoidance of bill shocks.
Why use Australia eSIM?
There are several excellent reasons to use an eSIM for your mobile connectivity needs while visiting Australia:
Convenience
Activating an Australian eSIM plan for your trip Down Under only takes a few taps on your phone – no need to source, purchase and swap out SIM cards. You can also easily manage your mobile data usage online and top up data allowances using the provider app
Flexibility
eSIMs give you access to multiple Australian phone networks. You can compare plans from different providers, switch subscriptions real-time, and choose the best deal for your trip duration. With an eSIM, you have the flexibility that traditional SIMs lack.
Cost-effective
Many eSIM providers offer exclusive tourist deals. Their data-only plans are often cheaper than purchasing a local tourist SIM card for each destination. You also avoid incurring roaming charges on your home network.
Wider coverage
With multi-network access, eSIM users can connect to a stronger signal anywhere in Australia - whether in the cities or while touring remote Outback regions. Enjoy consistent connectivity across the country.
Enhanced security
Unlike physical SIM cards, eSIMs cannot be removed or stolen easily. Their embedded nature provides superior reliability, protection and peace of mind for travellers.
🎉Pro Tip: Looking for the ultimate travel experience? Don’t miss out on the Australia travel guide for tips, top attractions, and local insights.Find the best Australia eSIM on Trip.com
eSIMs empower tourists with better connectivity throughout their Australian travel. By delivering unmatched flexibility, convenience and control, eSIMs are revolutionizing the way we connect around the world.
Follow this guide to enjoy the benefits of eSIM services across magical Australia. Never lose touch with family, access maps or share amazing photos regardless of location.
Let seamless network connectivity help create cherished travel memories today!
