Best eSIMs for the UK (2025 Guide)

In 2025, the best eSIMs for the UK make it easy to get instant 4G and 5G data coverage on major networks like EE, O2, Vodafone, and Three (H3G). You can activate your plan before you arrive, keep your regular SIM for calls, and manage everything directly in an app.

In this guide, we compare Ubigi and Saily, two trusted United Kingdom eSIM providers known for reliable performance, flexible plans, and fast setup, ideal for digital nomads, remote workers, and travellers visiting the United Kingdom.

Disclaimer: This article is for general informational purposes only. Plan details and pricing may change; please check each provider’s official website before purchasing.

Using an eSIM in the UK

The UK is a frequent stop for digital nomads and remote professionals, with strong infrastructure, international events, and a growing coworking scene. Whether you’re coworking in London, exploring Brighton, or travelling through Edinburgh, most eSIMs provide full coverage across the UK.

I didn’t start using eSIMs until I was already a few months into full-time travel. Once I did, I never went back to queuing at SIM card stands or trying to figure out the best phone plans in shops.

In this guide, you’ll find our top 2 eSIM recommendations for the UK, plus a directory to explore even more providers. These are all tested, easy to set up, and work reliably across the country.

What is an eSIM, and why use one in the UK?

An eSIM ("embedded SIM") is a digital SIM card you install on your phone. Instead of inserting a plastic card, you download a profile via the provider’s app or QR code, and activate it online.

Why use an eSIM in the UK:

✅ Set it up before your flight

✅ No queues, paperwork or ID checks

✅ Better than roaming with your home contract

✅ Strong connections in cities and smaller towns

✅ Easy to monitor usage and manage top-ups

Best eSIM providers for the UK

Ubigi: Best for fast setup and high-speed coverage

Ubigi offers fast, flexible eSIM plans and works well across the UK. For attending a conference in London or road-tripping through Wales, Ubigi’s service is fast, smooth, and very easy to manage.

Why we recommend Ubigi:

• App-based setup or QR code installation in under 5 minutes
• Smart activation: your plan starts when you land
• Tested speeds up to 200 Mbps in suburban areas
• Real-time data tracking in the app
• Works for tethering your laptop or tablet
• Data plans from 500MB to unlimited
• Discount for Nomadwise users available

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Saily: Best for security and flexible data plans

Saily, developed by the NordVPN team, focuses on privacy, reliability, and simple app-based setup. It’s ideal for travellers who want steady connectivity and responsive support while earning credits toward future top-ups.

Why choose Saily for the UK:

✅ Plans from 1 GB to unlimited

✅ Reliable 4G and 5G coverage across the country

✅ 24/7 live chat support and automatic activation

✅ Credits back on every purchase

✅ Built-in privacy and ad-blocking features

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Both Ubigi and Saily make it easy to stay connected across the UK. Ubigi is ideal for longer stays or heavier data use, offering reliable 4G and 5G coverage on EE and Three (H3G). Saily suits travellers who prefer privacy, flexibility, and quick setup through the app. To explore more options, visit our full UK eSIM provider directory.

How to choose the right eSIM for your UK trip

• Phone compatibility: iPhones XR+, newer Androids, and Pixels generally support eSIM
• Data needs: 3–5GB/week is plenty for emails, social media, and maps. If you want to hotspot for work, you might need more
• Visiting other countries too? Consider a region-wide or global plan from Ubigi.
• Support matters: Choose a provider that offers live chat or detailed help articles

If you’re mainly looking for the cheapest eSIM plans in the UK, providers like Saily often offer smaller 1–3 GB options ideal for short visits.

💡 Travelling beyond the UK? See also our guide to the best eSIMs for Europe to find plans that cover multiple countries under one data package.

How to set up an eSIM in the UK

Setting up an eSIM in the UK is quick and straightforward. You can install it before your trip or once you arrive, and most devices are ready to connect within minutes.

eSIM UK step-by-step guide:

1. Purchase your eSIM plan from a trusted provider.
2. Scan the QR code or follow the installation link provided by email or app.
3. Open your phone settings and add the eSIM under Mobile Network or Cellular Plans.
4. Activate the plan when you land in the UK to start using data.
5. Monitor your balance or top up directly through the provider’s app.

💡 Tip: Remove expired eSIMs from previous trips to avoid confusion, and label your new profile (e.g., “UK-Data”) for easy access.

You’ll be connected to local networks like EE, O2, Vodafone, or Three as soon as the setup is complete.

Final recommendation: Which eSIM is best for the UK?

Whether you’re working remotely in a London coworking space, exploring castles in Wales, or catching trains through the English countryside, a reliable eSIM makes all the difference. For short-term visitors or anyone travelling across England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland, choosing an eSIM for UK travel is the easiest way to stay online without roaming.

Choose Ubigi if you want reliable nationwide coverage, flexible data options, and an easy in-app experience for longer stays. Use code NOMADWISE for 10% off your first purchase.

Choose Saily if you prefer a privacy-focused eSIM with quick setup, responsive support, and credits back on every plan. Use code NOMADWISE5 for 5% off Saily plans.

Both make staying connected in the UK effortless, affordable, and secure.