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Travel eSIMs Surge, Threatening Mobile Roaming Revenue
19 Aug
Summary
- Travel eSIM usage is projected to increase by one-third this year.
- eSIM data packages are significantly cheaper than typical roaming deals.
- The travel eSIM market is expected to reach $3.2 billion by 2030.
The global use of travel eSIMs is projected to rise by approximately one-third this year, reaching 134 million compared to 101.8 million in 2025. This surge is driven by travellers seeking more cost-effective alternatives to traditional mobile data roaming packages. Companies such as Airalo and Saily are attracting consumers with data plans that are generally cheaper than those offered by their regular mobile providers.
This growing adoption of eSIMs presents a significant challenge to established mobile operators, from whom roaming services currently account for a substantial portion of revenue. The market for travel eSIMs was valued at £649 million in 2025 and is anticipated to grow to £3.2 billion by 2030.
Factors contributing to this growth include a near 50% increase in eSIM-compatible smartphones, with over 326 models supporting the technology in 2025. Consumer awareness is also accelerating, moving the market from education to conversion. This proliferation adds to the existing pressures on incumbent operators, who are also competing with mobile virtual network operators.
