Nomad is a digital eSIM marketplace that provides affordable prepaid data plans for travelers in over 170 countries worldwide.
Founded in 2020, Nomad has quickly become a popular eSIM provider thanks to its easy-to-use app, wide coverage, and competitive pricing.
Users praise the simplicity of purchasing and activating eSIMs through the Nomad app, the variety of data plans available for different countries and regions, and the affordable prices compared to roaming with domestic carriers. However, a few customers complain of occasional speed and setup issues.
Nomad: Plans and pricing
Nomad’s pricing structure is based on the amount of data and duration of the plan, with rates starting from as low as $1.20/GB in some regions. Here’s an overview of the most popular ones:
A wide range of country-specific and regional plans caters to various travel needs and budgets. However, purchasing a local SIM can sometimes be a cheaper solution than Nomad for some regions.
Nomad: Features
Our experience with Nomad eSIM has been largely positive, with several standout features that set it apart from other providers.
Nomad Passport
Nomad's Passport feature allows users to purchase a bundle of eSIMs for multiple countries at a discounted price. This is useful for travelers visiting several destinations on a single trip, as it eliminates the need to purchase individual plans for each country.
Multi-device Support
Nomad enables users to share their eSIM data plans across multiple devices, such as smartphones, tablets, and laptops. This feature is especially convenient for travelers who rely on various devices to stay connected and productive on the go.
Nomad Perks
Nomad offers exclusive perks and discounts to its users, including deals on travel services, accommodation, and tours. These perks add value to the eSIM plans, enhancing the overall travel experience for customers.
Nomad: Installation
Purchasing and activating a Nomad eSIM is a straightforward process. Users can buy eSIM plans directly from Nomad's website or through their user-friendly iOS and Android apps. Upon purchase, an email containing a QR code with installation details is sent to the user.
Users scan the provided QR code with their eSIM-compatible device, which automatically downloads and installs the carrier profile. Once installed, eSIMs can be activated with a few taps in the device's settings.
Once the eSIM has been installed, you can activate the data plan whenever you’re ready to begin using the eSIM, which is usually after you’ve entered the region which you purchased the data plan for. Note that premature activation can cause data loss, so it’s best to activate the plan very close to the travel date.
First-time users will appreciate the step-by-step onboarding guidance provided by Nomad. Plus, the company's responsive customer support is available round the clock to assist with any issues.
Nomad: Coverage and speed
Nomad eSIMs offer extensive coverage in over 170 countries worldwide, making them a reliable choice for frequent travelers. Users report generally good connectivity and network reliability across various regions, including Asia, Europe, and North America. A few popular travel destinations it covers include:
- United States
- Canada
- United Kingdom
- Germany
- Italy
- Australia
- Japan
- China
- Thailand
- Singapore
- South Korea
In terms of data speeds, Nomad typically provides 4G/LTE or even 5G speeds, depending on the destination and local network conditions. However, some users have reported occasional slowdowns or throttling issues in certain areas, such as during peak hours in Tokyo. However, these instances seem to be relatively rare, with most users experiencing satisfactory speeds throughout.
Overall, Nomad stacks up well against competitors, offering a balance of coverage, speed, and affordability that caters to the needs of international travelers.
Nomad: Support
Nomad offers customer support primarily through emails, plus a ticketing system accessible via their website and mobile app.
While there’s no phone support, users can submit detailed requests and receive prompt assistance from the support team. Nomad's customer support is generally responsive and helpful. Many users praise the quick response times, often within minutes, especially when using their ticketing platform.
Even the few negative reviews we found mention that despite the technical hiccups, Nomad's customer service was prompt and accommodating in finding a solution. It's also worth noting that Nomad's support is available 24/7 across all time zones.
Based on our own experience and user reviews, the support team seems to know the product well, with enough experience to guide users through setup, troubleshooting, and pricing queries.
Nomad: Final verdict
After thoroughly analyzing its offerings, coverage, pricing, and user reviews, we can confidently say that Nomad is a strong contender in the eSIM market.
Nomad's eSIM plans are particularly well-suited for frequent travelers, digital nomads, and those visiting multiple countries on a single trip. The Nomad Passport, which allows users to purchase a bundle of eSIMs for different countries at a discounted price, is a highlight we loved.
While some users have reported occasional issues with speeds or connectivity, these are relatively infrequent and often resolved quickly by the support team.
Nomad: FAQs
Is Nomad eSIM good for USA?
Yes, Nomad is a good option for travelers visiting the US. It offers affordable data plans for the US starting at $1.40/GB. Plus, it operates on the AT&T and T-Mobile networks, which offer reliable coverage throughout the United States.
Is Nomad better than Airalo?
Nomad and Airalo both offer eSIM plans for a wide range of countries worldwide. Nomad provides better individual country plans compared to Airalo, but the price differences are usually negligible. Since experiences can differ by region, there’s no one answer for whether one provider is better than the other.
Who is behind Nomad eSIM?
Nomad has been developed by a company called LotusFlare. In fact, the entire eSIM marketplace rests on the SaaS component of the LotusFlare DNO Cloud.
