Using the Airalo ESim app in France

I currently have the Discover Global eSIM. In 2024 I travelled to Central and South America and on to Europe which included travel to France. As I cross a border the eSIM picks up the new carrier. I signed up for phone and SMS with 20 GB of data. I find I use data and rarely make phone calls. I've also had the Europe Eurolink eSIM on a different trip and did not have any issues. The main use is for having Google Maps when you are going someplace and having access to the internet. I've stood outside a venue and booked tickets online, so I did not have to stand in line. It's easy to use. I downloaded the Airalo app on my phone and then decide on the eSIM that works best for me. I did my research online as to best eSIM and decided on Airalo. Have not had any issues in the past 4 years using it around the world.

I have used Airalo esims on my last two trips to Europe. When I travel, I stay for about six weeks at a time and visit several countries. I buy a European regional card and it covers the countries I will visit. I am also able to top up if I run low on data. As you cross borders the esim automatically connects to the local service provider. for that country. You do not have to do anything when going from one country to another. To install the esim I just followed the directions on the app. One time I communicated via their chat feature for some help and they replied very promptly. There are also explanatory youtube videos you can watch. The esims were well worth it and actually quite economical. They were data only but with that data I could use my Apple facetime or Whatsapp to easily make calls via wifi. Whatsapp is very popular outside of the US and in Europe so lots of hotels, restaurants , and people use it.

I used Airola in the Netherlands and Portugal this fall. No issues at all. As others have said, there are good instructions on youtube and the app. Easy to use. I was able to top up with no issues when I needed extra days. WhatsApp is very common in Europe, so if you need to call someone, use WhatsApp.

I've used Airalo Esims in many countries, including France. They work great!

There are plenty of you tubes videos on this subject. If you go to You Tube and put in "Airalo Esims" you will find a good selection.

Here are a few tips I have found. I will buy my esim prior to my trip but leave it turned off on my phone. I leave my home line active until I get to my destination where I turn it completely off and turn on the esim. I will turn on my home line again the day I am traveling home. I found the $12 international charge was worth it for knowing all communications about possible irregular operations would be coming through without a hitch.

I combine my Esim with the "What's App" App. This allows for text messaging to hotels, family, etc. It also allows for phone calls through Whats App.

I have been using Airalo esim for several years while visiting various European countries. It works seamlessly.

There are lots of instructions online on how to install and use it.

https://www.airalo.com/help/getting-started-with-airalo/E8DFWD88SHUX/how-do-i-install-an-airalo-esim-directly-on-my-ios-device/7Y77FP6UZXI8

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AVazdMKnyPI

Previous discussions here:

https://community.ricksteves.com/travel-forum/tech-tips/airalo-esim-report

https://community.ricksteves.com/travel-forum/tech-tips/using-airalo-in-italy

https://community.ricksteves.com/travel-forum/tech-tips/has-anyone-used-airalo

Thank you everyone for your great responses. Everyone was so helpful! Thanks again!