Categories: Lifestyle

SIM-ply Connect: 9 SIM Cards For World Travel

Travelling the world is one of life’s greatest adventures, but navigating new places without a way to stay connected can feel like being lost in a maze! International SIM cards are your passport to seamless communication, navigation, and sharing those Insta-worthy moments with friends back home. Imagine having the freedom to update your travel blog, navigate the hidden gems of a bustling city, or simply find the nearest café—all while avoiding those pesky roaming charges. Read on to discover the best SIM cards for world travel.

Overview of the best SIM cards for world travel

Coverage SIM Card Costs Data allowance Validity
Asia, Europe, America, Oceania, Africa SCT-Global SIM Card From $2.50
  • Daily 500MB/1GB/2GB/3GB + Unlimited Data
  • Fixed data plan
Up to 30 days
Asia, Europe, America NPN Travel From $2.48
  • Daily 500MB/1GB/2GB/3GB + Unlimited Data
  • Fixed data plan
Up to 30 days
Asia, Australia, Europe, America International Card Center From $5.49
  • Daily 500MB/1GB/2GB/3GB + Unlimited Data
  • Daily 6GB + Call*
  • Fixed data plan + Call*

*Call options only available for certain countries.

Up to 30 days
Asia, Australia, Europe, America SIMCard.SG $21.50 for multi-country SIM Daily 6GB + Unlimited Data 8 – 15 days
Asia, Oceania, Europe, North America Yoowifi From $2.40
  • Daily 500MB/1GB/2GB + Unlimited Data
  • Fixed data plan
Up to 15 days
Asia, Oceania, Europe, North America AIRSIM $12.00 – $60.00
  • Different data packages in AIRSIM App
  • Every data package comes with 30-min free AIRTALK calls
1 year validity (renewable)
Asia, Oceania, Europe, America Happy Travel SIM From $3.90
  • Daily 1GB/2GB + Unlimited Data
  • Fixed data plan
Up to 365 days for regional SIM cards
Asia, Oceania, Europe, Middle East JOYTEL From $4.19
  • Daily 1GB/2GB/3GB + Unlimited Data
  • Fixed data plan
Up to 15 days
Singapore, Australia, Indonesia, Malaysia & Thailand Singtel $12.00 – $30.00
  • 100GB 4G/5G local data
  • 3GB/5GB data roam to Australia, Malaysia, Indonesia & Thailand
  • 500-min local calls
Up to 30 days

Best SIM cards for world travel

1. SCT-Global

(Credit: SCT-Global)
Costs From $2.50
Coverage Asia, Europe, America, Oceania, Africa
Data allowance
  • Daily 500MB/1GB/2GB/3GB + Unlimited Data
  • Fixed data plan available
Validity Up to 30 days

With over 20 years of experience in the communication industry, SCT-Global has perfected the art of seamless connectivity while you roam the globe. Offering network coverage in 255+ countries and regions, they provide hassle-free data plans tailored for every adventure, ensuring you can navigate, share, and connect without breaking the bank. 

Looking for a roaming SIM card that allows you to maintain your existing number? Or perhaps an overseas data SIM card for reliable internet access? SCT-Global has the right solution for you. Additionally, don’t forget to check out their options for a USA SIM card or a Canada SIM card to stay online during your journey across North America!

2. NPN Travel

(Credit: NPN Travel)
Costs From $2.48
Coverage Asia, Europe, America
Data allowance
  • Daily 500MB/1GB/2GB/3GB + Unlimited Data
  • Fixed data plan available
Validity Up to 30 days

NPN Travel boasts over a decade of experience in the travel industry, establishing itself as a trusted provider of connectivity solutions for globetrotters. Also recognised as one of Shopee’s Top Digital Goods Sellers for three consecutive years, NPN Travel undoubtedly offers the best SIM cards for world travel. Their convenient self-collection service at Changi Airport allows you to grab your SIM card right before your flight, ensuring reliable access to all your favourite apps and services from the moment you touch down.

But NPN Travel goes beyond just travel SIM cards; they also offer a range of products, including attraction tickets to exciting destinations like Tokyo Sanrio Puroland. This therefore makes NPN Travel your one-stop shop for all travel needs, helping you make the most of your adventures.

3. International Card Center

(Credit: International Card Center)
Costs From $5.49
Coverage Asia, Australia, Europe, America
Data allowance
  • Daily 500MB/1GB/2GB/3GB + Unlimited Data
  • Daily 6GB + Call*
  • Fixed data plan + Call*

*Call options only available for certain countries.

Validity Up to 30 days

As the editor’s personal favourite, the International Card Center (ICC) SIM card has proven to be a reliable companion for trips ranging from the best Bali beach clubs to the bustling streets of New York. They also offer some of the best eSIMs on the market, making it easier than ever to share IG stories while roaming across the globe.

What I like best is that their SIM cards can be used for both local and international calls, making communication incredibly versatile. Whether it’s letting loved ones know I’ve arrived safely or discussing last-minute details about my trip, having the ability to call back home without hassle makes a significant difference!

4. SIMCard.SG

(Credit: SIMCard.SG)
Costs $21.50 for multi-country SIM
Coverage Asia, Australia, Europe, America
Data allowance Daily 6GB + Unlimited Data
Validity 8 – 15 days

While SIMCard.SG offers individual prepaid SIM cards for various countries, we highly recommend their Multi-Country SIM Card, especially if you’re travelling to several destinations within two weeks. This SIM card for world travel provides the first 6GB of high-speed data, allowing for smooth streaming and browsing. Furthermore, users rave about the convenience, often mentioning that they can access the internet within minutes of inserting the SIM.

If you’re planning a quick trip, be sure to explore these short getaway destinations from Singapore to maximise your travel experience! Whether you’re hopping from city to city or immersing yourself in new cultures, this SIM card is a travelling essential for your next trip out! 

5. Yoowifi

(Credit: Yoowifi – Global SIMs, eSIMs, Wifi)
Costs From $2.40
Coverage Asia, Oceania, Europe, North America
Data allowance
  • Daily 500MB/1GB/2GB + Unlimited Data
  • Fixed data plan available
Validity Up to 15 days

Yoowifi offers the best portable Wi-Fi solutions designed for large groups in need of reliable internet access on the go. With their compact pocket-sized routers, you can enjoy seamless connectivity in over 130 countries. But now, they also offer some of the best physical SIM cards for world travel.

What we like most is their 24-hour customer support—even if you arrive at the airport in the wee hours, assistance is just a call away. This ensures that any connectivity concerns or questions can be addressed promptly, allowing you to focus on your itinerary instead of technical difficulties.

6. AIRSIM

(Credit: airsimsg)
Costs $12.00 – $60.00
Coverage Asia, Oceania, Europe, North America
Data allowance
  • Different data packages available in AIRSIM App for your selection
  • Every data package comes with 30-min free AIRTALK calls
Validity AIRISM account has 1 year validity after first registration in AIRSIM App. The expiry date will be extended 1 year automatically from the data of every purchase of data package or top-up.

Another personal favourite, the AIRSIM Reusable Travel Data SIM Card is one of the best SIM cards for world travel. With its user-friendly app, you can easily purchase data packages tailored to your needs and top up any time. This convenience makes the AIRSIM card a go-to choice for savvy travellers who want to keep their connectivity straightforward.

However, there’s one quirky downside: you might find yourself unable to use TikTok. But hey, sometimes a digital detox is just what you need while exploring new destinations! Overall, this reusable international SIM card combines ease of use with stable internet, making it a fantastic option for frequent travellers.

7. Happy Travel SIM

(Credit: Happy Travel Sim.MY)
Costs From $3.90
Coverage Asia, Oceania, Europe, America
Data allowance
  • Daily 1GB/2GB + Unlimited Data
  • Fixed data plan available
Validity Up to 365 days for regional SIM cards

Happy Travel SIM offers the best SIM cards for world travel, particularly with their 5-region Roaming Data SIM. Whether you’re exploring the best cafés in Bangkok, soaking up the sun in luxurious Bali villas, or navigating the top ramen restaurants in Tokyo, this international SIM card ensures you stay connected without worrying about exorbitant roaming charges.

Their roaming SIM card provides usage periods of 90 to 365 days, allowing you to use any leftover data in other countries, minimising wastage. This feature makes it perfect for business travellers who hop between multiple destinations. By eliminating the need for repeated purchases of short-term plans and the hassle of waiting for deliveries, this unlimited data SIM simplifies your travel experience, letting you focus on what truly matters—your adventures!

8. JOYTEL

(Credit: joytel2u)
Costs From $4.19
Coverage Asia, Oceania, Europe, Middle East
Data allowance
  • Daily 1GB/2GB/3GB + Unlimited Data
  • Fixed data plan available
Validity Up to 15 days

Planning a trip to Saudi Arabia to find your habibi? Don’t forget to pick up the best SIM cards for world travel from JOYTEL! JOYTEL is the leading SIM card provider in Malaysia, offering reliable connectivity tailored for those exploring the rich culture and stunning sights of the Kingdom. With their affordable data plans, you can easily share your experiences and explore bustling markets.

Each purchase comes with a free SIM holder and ejector pin for easy installation. Plus, if you buy two or more SIM cards, you can enjoy a 5% discount, making it a great option for travelling with friends or family. This not only helps you save money but also ensures that everyone can stay in touch while exploring a new place! 

9. Singtel

(Credit: Singtel Prepaid Official Store)
Costs $12.00 – $30.00
Coverage Singapore, Australia, Indonesia, Malaysia & Thailand
Data allowance
  • 100GB 4G/5G local data
  • 3GB/5GB data roam to Australia, Malaysia, Indonesia & Thailand
  • 500-min local calls
Validity Up to 30 days

If you’re a tourist travelling into Singapore, you can’t miss purchasing the best international SIM card from Singtel! As Singapore’s trusted telco, they offer the hi! Tourist Prepaid SIM Card, designed to make your stay seamless and enjoyable. You’ll receive a $3 EZ-Link stored value for train and bus rides, helping you move around the city with ease.

Additionally, this Singtel prepaid card includes 3GB of data that can be used for roaming in nearby countries like Australia, Malaysia, Indonesia, and Thailand, making it a versatile choice for your travels. Just remember to register your SIM within seven days to activate it; otherwise, it will become invalid. 

Is it better to get a local SIM card or an international one?

The choice between a local SIM card and an international SIM card ultimately depends on your travel habits and needs. Here’s a breakdown of the pros and cons of each option:

SIM card option Pros Cons
Local SIM card
  • Typically cheaper for local data and calls
  • Better network coverage in the specific country
  • Easy access to local services and apps
  • Requires purchasing a new SIM for each country
  • May involve lengthy registration processes
  • Limited to the specific country’s network
International SIM card
  • Easy to set up before departure
  • Convenient for shorter trips without changing SIMs
  • Data speeds may vary depending on the country
  • Limited local features or services

Unlock seamless travel with the best overseas data SIM cards

When purchasing SIM cards for your world travels, be sure to place them in the best camera phones that can capture stunning photos of your adventures. In addition, for other travel essentials, check out our recommendations for the best passport holders and travel pillows, along with eye masks—perfect for long-haul flight. Furthermore, don’t miss our range of best carry-on luggages to make transporting your belongings a breeze!

Shermyn Tan

A happy pill is what everyone around Shermyn will describe her as. She likes getting people excited about the things she is excited about and right now, it’s two things – café-hopping and gym!

Leave a Comment