Southeast Asia eSIM: multi-country plans compared for 2026
The bar shows price per GB: shorter is cheaper. Click a column header to sort.
| Network | 5G | Hotspot | CTA | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Yesim | 5 GB | 30 | $11.52 | $2.30 |
Not specified | Not specified | Not specified | See plan |
All checked plans (9)
| Yesim | 3 GB | 30 | $8.40 | $2.80 |
| Yesim | 5 GB | 30 | $11.52 | $2.30 |
| Yesim | 10 GB | 30 | $19.20 | $1.92 |
| Yesim | 20 GB | 30 | $27.96 | $1.40 |
| Yesim | 30 GB | 30 | $35.04 | $1.17 |
| Yesim | Unlimited | 1 | $8.40 | — |
| Yesim | Unlimited | 7 | $33.60 | — |
| Yesim | Unlimited | 15 | $50.40 | — |
| Yesim | Unlimited | 30 | $64.80 | — |
How a regional eSIM works
A Southeast Asia plan covers several countries with a single eSIM profile, up to 8 depending on the plan. The data allowance is shared across all covered countries, and validity runs for the whole trip. When you cross a border, your phone connects to the partner network in the next country.
What to check before you buy
- The country list: two "Southeast Asia" plans don't necessarily cover the same countries. Check every stop on your itinerary.
- Duration: it has to cover your whole trip in Southeast Asia, not just the first stop.
- Price: if you'll spend most of the trip in one country, a national plan can work out cheaper.
- Hotspot use: allowed or not depending on the provider; the "Hotspot" column tells you.
Set up your eSIM in 4 steps
- Make sure your phone is eSIM-compatible and unlocked.
- Buy the plan, then scan the QR code you receive (or install through the provider's app), on Wi-Fi.
- When you arrive, turn on the eSIM line for data, and turn on roaming for that line only.
- Keep your main SIM for calls and texts, with data roaming turned off.
Your phone must be eSIM-compatible and unlocked.
Frequently asked questions
How many countries does a Southeast Asia eSIM cover?
It depends on the plan: up to 8 countries among the plans we compare. Always check the full list before you buy.
Is a regional eSIM more expensive than a single-country one?
Often slightly, for the same amount of data. It pays off as soon as your itinerary in Southeast Asia crosses several covered countries.
What happens when I cross a border?
Your phone connects to the partner network in the next country. The data allowance and validity stay the same.
Is hotspot use allowed?
It depends on the provider. The "Hotspot" column in the table shows what each one publishes.
Is my phone eSIM-compatible?
Most iPhones from the XS onward, recent Samsung Galaxy phones and Google Pixels from the Pixel 3 onward are compatible. The phone also has to be unlocked. On iPhone: Settings > General > About, look for the "EID" line.
When should I install my eSIM?
Install it before you leave, on Wi-Fi, but turn on the data line when you arrive. Most plans only start at the first connection to the local network.