Holafly popularized unlimited data eSIMs for travel, but it's not the only option and rarely the cheapest. If you're looking for an alternative to Holafly that costs less and still works at the airport as soon as you land, this guide compares unlimited data models versus gigabyte plans and explains when each is worthwhile.
Why look for an alternative to Holafly
The most sought-after alternative to Holafly offers the same service for less money. Holafly charges per day for unlimited data, a convenient but expensive model for long trips or if you use little data. A gigabyte plan is usually half the price for a traveler's typical usage.
Those looking to switch usually agree on three things: they found the daily rate expensive, noticed that "unlimited" data slows down after a certain daily consumption, or simply didn't use anywhere near what they paid for. Before renewing, check out why Holafly is expensive and what alternatives there are and compare carefully. No "unlimited" promise replaces checking how many gigabytes you use on a normal travel day.
Practical tip: an average tourist uses between 500 MB and 1.5 GB per day using maps, messaging, and some video. With that, a 5-10 GB plan covers a week with plenty to spare.
Unlimited vs. gigabyte plans: which is best for you
It depends on usage. If you stream or tether for many hours, unlimited provides peace of mind. If you use your phone normally (maps, WhatsApp, social media, some video), a gigabyte plan costs significantly less and you'll have data left over. The key is that almost no one consumes enough to make unlimited worthwhile.
Holafly's model charges by the day, so a two-week trip quickly becomes expensive. An eSIM with gigabytes valid for 30 days lets you spread out your consumption without the pressure of a daily counter. You also avoid "unlimited with fine print": many plans reduce speed after exceeding a daily cap, so true unlimited isn't always truly unlimited.
- Short, intensive trip: unlimited might be worth it if you do a lot of streaming.
- Trip of one to four weeks: gigabyte plan is almost always cheaper.
- Moderate usage: 5-10 GB is more than enough; you only pay for what you use.
Alternative comparison
These are the most common alternatives to Holafly. Prices are indicative and vary by destination and duration, but they serve to show each model's approach and where the savings lie.
| Option | Model | Estimated Price | Ideal for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Holafly | Unlimited per day | ~€5-7/day | Short trip with lots of video |
| PuraSim | Per GB, up to 30 days | from ~€0.85/GB | Normal use, trips of days or weeks |
| Saily | Per GB | Variable | Occasional light use |
| Operator roaming | Per day outside the EU | €10-20/day | Nothing: it's the most expensive |
If you want the details of economical options compared to the brand, there's a comparison of cheap alternatives to Holafly and also a head-to-head between Holafly and PuraSim with specific numbers.
How many GB do you really need
Before paying for unlimited, calculate your usage. Most travelers overestimate how much they use because they're on Wi-Fi at home. When traveling, if you use hotel Wi-Fi at night, mobile data usage drops significantly. Based on that, a gigabyte plan almost always wins in terms of value for money.
As a quick reference for choosing size: maps and messaging use little data; social media with video and streaming are what drive up consumption. If you rely on hotel Wi-Fi, a 5 to 10 GB plan covers almost any getaway. For digital nomads or month-long trips, upgrade to 15-20 GB or combine top-ups.
- Check your current monthly usage in your phone settings.
- Subtract what you'll do over Wi-Fi at your accommodation.
- Choose the gigabyte plan closest to that figure, without overspending.
How to choose without making a mistake
Beyond price, a good alternative to Holafly must meet the basics: real coverage at your destination, easy activation, and support that responds in English if something goes wrong. A cheap eSIM that doesn't connect upon landing is no saving at all.
Look at coverage at your destination (that it uses good local networks), that activation is a one-minute process by scanning a QR code, and 24/7 English support in case you need help at any time. PuraSim covers 218 destinations and activates the eSIM in one minute, which is key when you land in the middle of the night and want to connect right away. If you're debating between brands, this comparison between Saily and Holafly helps you see the pattern of each model.
Switching from Holafly step by step
Migrating is easier than it seems: you don't lose your local number or touch your usual SIM. The data eSIM is a separate line that you install alongside yours. You buy the plan, receive a QR code, scan it, and you're done.
The complete process is as follows:
- Check that your phone is eSIM compatible (almost all recent models are).
- Purchase the plan for your destination and receive the QR code by email.
- Scan the QR code from your phone's settings, using Wi-Fi.
- Upon arrival, activate data on the new eSIM and leave your local line without roaming.
If you're coming from another eSIM or changing phones, review how to transfer an eSIM to a new phone to avoid losing the plan. And if it's your first eSIM, the guide on what an eSIM is clarifies the concept in two minutes. Compared to traditional roaming, any of these alternatives wins on price.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best alternative to Holafly?
There isn't one single "best": it depends on your usage. If you use little to moderate data, a gigabyte plan like PuraSim is cheaper than unlimited per day. If you do a lot of streaming on a short trip, unlimited might be worthwhile. Calculate your GB before deciding.
Is it cheaper to pay per gigabyte than for unlimited data?
Almost always yes for the average traveler. Unlimited is paid per day, so it becomes more expensive on trips of a week or more. A 5-10 GB plan with 30 days of validity covers normal usage (maps, messaging, social media) for significantly less money.
Is unlimited data truly unlimited?
Not always. Many "unlimited" plans reduce speed after exceeding a daily usage cap, so you browse slowly afterward. That's why it's good to read the fine print: a good gigabyte plan at full speed often performs better than a throttled unlimited plan.
Do I lose my phone number if I switch from Holafly?
No. The data eSIM is an independent line that coexists with your usual SIM or eSIM. You keep your local number for calls and texts, and you use the travel eSIM only for data. Simply deactivate roaming on your main line.
Do I need a different eSIM for each country?
Not always. Regional plans (Europe, Asia) and global plans exist that cover several countries with a single eSIM. For a single destination, that country's eSIM is cheaper; for a multi-country trip, a regional plan is more worthwhile. Check the complete collection to see all options.
Conclusion
Holafly works, but it's rarely the cheapest: its unlimited daily model makes long trips expensive and almost no one uses as much as they pay for. Before renewing, calculate your real gigabytes and compare with a gigabyte plan valid for 30 days. If you want to connect upon landing without overpaying, take a look at PuraSim's eSIM and its 218 destinations and choose the plan that truly fits your trip.
