Eleanor McGleenan
What if you could arrive in Ghent and be instantly connected, with no need to find a store or swap a tiny piece of plastic? The modern traveler’s dream is a reality with an eSIM. It’s the key to navigating the city’s ancient streets, sharing your perfect photos, and staying in touch effortlessly. This article will show you exactly how to achieve that with a breakdown of the best eSIM for Ghent, tailored for your trip.
We’ve done the deep research, comparing the top eSIM providers to help you make a great choice. This article will provide an in-depth review of the best eSIM for Ghent in 2025, with a keen focus on seamless, stress-free connectivity for your Flemish adventure. Our goal is simple: give you the facts you need so you can spend less time worrying about your phone and more time enjoying the city.
Here’s a snapshot of the top eSIM providers we recommend, each with a specific highlight that makes it a smart pick for your Ghent travel.
We’re diving deeper into our top picks, giving you all the details you need to choose your ideal connectivity partner for your trip.
Saily is gaining a lot of buzz for being a straightforward, no-nonsense eSIM provider, especially for those who want a simple but secure connection. What we appreciate about Saily is its focus on value. It’s an easy-to-use option for anyone who wants a secure connection without paying a premium. This makes it an ideal choice for a solo traveler or a family who wants to stay connected without fuss while visiting the Gravensteen or cruising down the canals.
| Established Year | Coverage | Key Features | Data Plans | Network Partners | Customer Support | App Available | Verdict Score |
| 2023 | 150+ countries | Ad-blocker, Web Protection, VPN | Fixed GB plans | Multiple carriers (Proximus, Telenet) | 24/7 Chat | iOS, Android | 9/10 |
The company has a solid reputation, backed by the same people behind a very well-known VPN service. This means they put a lot of thought into security, which is a great thing when you’re using Wi-Fi in public spaces or booking tickets online for attractions like St. Bavo’s Cathedral. Saily’s plans are straightforward, with no complicated fine print. They partner with major local networks to ensure reliable 4G and 5G service not only in Ghent’s historic center but also on those essential day trips to places like Bruges or Brussels. The app is clean and simple, making it easy to check your data usage.
We love Saily because it balances cost and performance so well. It’s one of the best cheap eSIM Ghent options that doesn’t skimp on quality. The built-in security features are a big plus, giving you peace of mind while you’re managing travel plans on the go. Saily’s wide network partnership means you’ll have a strong signal in almost all key areas of the city and its surroundings.
| Plan Name | Data Amount | Validity | Price | Coverage | Specific Locations Covered |
| Ghent Starter | 1 GB | 7 days | ~$4.99 | Belgium | Ghent, Bruges, Brussels |
| Flanders Explorer | 3 GB | 15 days | ~$9.99 | Belgium, Netherlands | Major Flemish cities |
| Benelux Trip | 5 GB | 30 days | ~$14.99 | Belgium, Netherlands, Luxembourg | All major cities in the region |
Airalo is probably the most well-known name in the eSIM space, and for good reason. They were pioneers in this market and have built a reputation for massive coverage and a very user-friendly app. For your trip, an Airalo Belgium eSIM review would focus on its widespread network connectivity. The app is incredibly easy to use, even for someone who has never used an eSIM before.
| Established Year | Coverage | Key Features | Data Plans | Network Partners | Customer Support | App Available | Verdict Score |
| 2019 | 200+ countries | Airmoney rewards, easy top-ups | Fixed GB plans | Proximus, Telenet, Orange Belgium | 24/7 Live Chat | iOS, Android | 9.5/10 |
Airalo’s strength in Ghent lies in its robust partnerships with the main Belgian network providers, like Proximus, Telenet, and Orange Belgium. This ensures you’ll have a consistently strong signal whether you’re navigating the old town or walking along the Lys river. The convenience of their app means you can get your eSIM set up before you even board the plane and have data as soon as you land at Brussels Airport. It’s a great choice for travelers who prioritize a seamless, reliable experience.
Airalo is a strong choice because of its global reputation and reliability. Their plans are varied, from small data packages for a quick weekend to larger ones for a longer stay. Their seamless activation process means you can be connected instantly, without having to hunt for a physical SIM card for Ghent. This is a huge time saver.
| Plan Name | Data Amount | Validity | Price | Coverage | Specific Locations Covered |
| Brussels eSIM | 1 GB | 7 days | ~$4.50 | Belgium | Brussels, Ghent, Bruges |
| Belgium Go | 5 GB | 30 days | ~$16.00 | Belgium | All of Belgium |
| Eurolink | 10 GB | 30 days | ~$37.00 | 42 European countries | Belgium and EU countries |
Holafly is a game-changer for a specific type of traveler: the one who wants unlimited data and doesn’t want to think about usage. An honest Holafly Belgium review would highlight its truly unlimited plans. This is perfect for someone who plans to use GPS extensively, stream videos on the go, or work remotely while visiting Ghent. No more worrying about running out of data while trying to find the best waffle shop.
| Established Year | Coverage | Key Features | Data Plans | Network Partners | Customer Support | App Available | Verdict Score |
| 2017 | 100+ countries | Unlimited data, live chat support | Unlimited plans | Proximus, Telenet, Orange Belgium | 24/7 Live Chat | iOS, Android | 9/10 |
While the plans are unlimited, we do want to be clear that there might be a fair usage policy (FUP) in place that could slow down your speeds after a certain amount of data, but for the average traveler, this is rarely an issue. This provider is an excellent choice for anyone who needs constant, heavy internet use. They also offer a Belgian phone number with some of their plans, which is a great feature if you need to make local calls or receive SMS for things like restaurant reservations.
If you need a lot of data and don’t want to worry about monitoring it, Holafly is the way to go. Their eSIM Ghent unlimited data options mean you can stream, share, and navigate to your heart’s content. They also offer excellent customer support, which is a big plus if you run into any issues during your trip.
| Plan Name | Data Amount | Validity | Price | Coverage | Specific Locations Covered |
| Belgium Unlimited | Unlimited | 5 days | ~$19.00 | Belgium | All of Belgium |
| Europe Unlimited | Unlimited | 15 days | ~$47.00 | 32 European countries | Belgium and across Europe |
| Traveler’s Choice | Unlimited | 30 days | ~$79.00 | 32 European countries | Belgium and across Europe |
Nomad stands out by giving you a lot of choice and flexibility. A Nomad eSIM Belgium review would highlight the ability to pick from a range of different plans and even choose your network. This is great if you know a particular network has better coverage in the specific areas of Ghent you plan to visit, or for a day trip to Bruges.
| Established Year | Coverage | Key Features | Data Plans | Network Partners | Customer Support | App Available | Verdict Score |
| 2018 | 100+ countries | Plan stacking, network choice | Fixed GB plans | Proximus, Telenet, Orange Belgium | Email, Chat | iOS, Android | 8.5/10 |
The Nomad app is well-designed and makes it easy to purchase and install an eSIM. They also have an interesting feature where you can “stack” plans, meaning you can buy a new plan and have it activate after your current one expires. This can be very useful for longer trips or if you’re traveling through multiple countries. Nomad is a great choice for travelers who want more control over their connectivity.
Nomad gives you more control over your experience. The ability to choose a network or a specific plan that fits your exact needs is a big plus. It’s a great middle-of-the-road option that balances good pricing with a lot of flexibility, which is ideal for a traveler with a specific itinerary in mind.
| Plan Name | Data Amount | Validity | Price | Coverage | Specific Locations Covered |
| Ghent Getaway | 3 GB | 7 days | ~$10.00 | Belgium | Ghent, Flanders region |
| Belgium Monthly | 10 GB | 30 days | ~$29.00 | Belgium | All of Belgium |
| Europe Bundle | 20 GB | 30 days | ~$45.00 | 35 European countries | Belgium and beyond |
Jetpac is a newer player that’s making a name for itself by offering really good value. An excellent choice if you’re looking for a cheap eSIM Ghent option that still offers a solid amount of data. What sets Jetpac apart is that they often include travel-related perks with their plans, which can be a nice bonus.
| Established Year | Coverage | Key Features | Data Plans | Network Partners | Customer Support | App Available | Verdict Score |
| 2022 | 100+ countries | Free lounge access for delayed flights | Fixed GB plans | Proximus, Orange Belgium | 24/7 Chat | iOS, Android | 8/10 |
While Jetpac’s prices are very competitive, their network coverage is solid, and they work with reliable local partners to ensure you have a good connection. For a traveler on a budget, this is a great way to save money while still having the freedom to navigate the city, use social media, and stay in touch with family.
Jetpac’s combination of affordability and unique perks like lounge access for delayed flights makes it a standout. It’s an easy way to get a solid connection for your trip without overspending, giving you more money for Belgian chocolates and beer.
| Plan Name | Data Amount | Validity | Price | Coverage | Specific Locations Covered |
| Belgium Basic | 1 GB | 7 days | ~$3.50 | Belgium | Ghent and key cities |
| Flanders Flex | 5 GB | 15 days | ~$12.00 | Belgium | All of Belgium |
| Euro Pass | 10 GB | 30 days | ~$25.00 | 40 European countries | Belgium and EU countries |
We get that you need to be sure about your choice. So, how did we evaluate these providers to bring you the top recommendations? Our methodology is based on what really matters to a traveler exploring a city like Ghent, and it’s a lot more than just the lowest price.
We looked at a few key things. First, Coverage and Network Quality are non-negotiable. It’s one thing to have a signal in the city center, but what about when you’re walking through a less-touristy neighborhood or on a day trip to the coast? We looked for providers that partner with the major Belgian carriers like Proximus, Telenet, and Orange Belgium to ensure a strong 4G/5G connection everywhere you go.
Then, we dug into the Data Plans and Pricing. We assessed the variety of data amounts and validity periods, looking for a good value for money. We were also super transparent about those “unlimited” plans, looking for any fair usage policies. The goal was to find options that are more cost-effective than buying a local Belgian prepaid SIM card from a shop.
We also considered Ease of Use and Activation. This is a huge benefit of eSIMs. The best providers make it simple to purchase, install, and activate your plan with a clear set of instructions. This is especially important when you’re landing at Brussels Airport and just want to get your data working fast.
Finally, we looked at Customer Support—how responsive and helpful they are. We also considered Additional Features, such as hotspot capability for sharing your connection with a laptop or the availability of a Belgian phone number for local calls and verification codes. All of this helped us narrow down the list to the ones you see here.
Here’s a quick, high-level summary of the top 10 eSIM providers to help you see the key differences at a glance.
| eSIM Provider | Key Feature Highlight | Ghent-Specific Plans Available | Unlimited Data Options | Validity Range | Best For |
| Saily | All-around value and security | Yes | No | 7, 15, 30 days | Budget-conscious travelers who value security |
| Airalo | Brand recognition and easy app | Yes | No | 7, 15, 30, 180 days | First-time eSIM users and reliable coverage |
| Holafly | Truly unlimited data plans | Yes | Yes | 5 to 90 days | Heavy data users and digital nomads |
| Nomad | Flexible plans with network choice | Yes | No | 7, 15, 30 days | Travelers who want control over their plan |
| Jetpac | Budget-friendly with travel perks | Yes | No | 7, 15, 30 days | Travelers on a tight budget |
| aloSIM | Plans that can include a local number | Yes | No | 7, 15, 30 days | Those needing a Belgian phone number |
| Instabridge | Competitive rates with security | Yes | No | 7, 15, 30 days | Cost-conscious users who need basic security |
| Ubigi | Global, premium single-eSIM profile | Yes | No | 1 day to 1 year | Frequent international travelers |
| Yesim | Pay-as-you-go and unlimited options | Yes | Yes | Flexible | Users who want flexibility and variety |
| Billion Connect | High-data and daily unlimited plans | Yes | Yes | 1 day to 30 days | Short trips with heavy data needs |
You’ve probably heard a lot about eSIMs, but what’s the real advantage for a trip to Ghent? The truth is, they’re just a lot easier. You don’t have to worry about finding a store, dealing with potential language barriers, or fumbling with a tiny physical SIM card.
You can buy your eSIM before you leave and get it set up on your phone. The moment you land at Brussels Airport and turn on your phone, you’re connected. This is a huge relief when you need to order a taxi or check directions right away. The other big benefit is that you can keep your home phone number active on your main line while using the eSIM for all your data needs, which means you won’t miss important calls or texts. Plus, you’ll avoid those huge international roaming fees.
We’re always looking at what’s next, and for eSIMs, a few trends are shaping up to be a big deal for travelers in 2025. We’re seeing more providers offer AI-powered plan recommendations, where the app suggests the best plan for you based on your itinerary. We also expect to see more hyper-localized deals for specific areas within Ghent.
For instance, a special data pack for the area around the Gravensteen or a specific discount for use in the student district. We also expect 5G to become even more widespread across the country, giving you faster speeds for everything you do. Finally, we predict deeper integration with local apps and services, making it easier to use your eSIM to connect to public transport like De Lijn.
When you’re choosing an eSIM, it’s not just about the data. There are other important features to consider. You’ll need to decide between a Data-Only plan and one that includes Voice/SMS. For most travelers, a data-only plan is fine, as you can use VoIP apps like WhatsApp or FaceTime to make calls.
However, if you need a Belgian phone number for local bookings or two-factor authentication, some providers like aloSIM and Holafly offer this, which is a great bonus. You should also think about Hotspot Capability. A lot of eSIMs allow you to share your data with other devices, which is great if you have a laptop or tablet you want to use. You’ll also want to look at the Validity Periods to make sure the plan covers your entire trip.
If you’re also planning to visit Bruges or Brussels, a regional plan that covers all of Belgium or even a broader European eSIM might be the most cost-effective choice. It’s why we always recommend looking at brands like Nomad eSIM Belgium and Airalo Belgium eSIM review for their regional options.
You know how your phone connects to different networks at home? The same thing happens with an eSIM. These digital SIMs don’t have their own networks. Instead, they partner with the major local carriers to give you a signal. In Belgium, that means your eSIM will connect to the networks of Proximus, Telenet, or Orange Belgium.
These are the same networks that locals use, which means you’re getting the best possible coverage. These networks are robust and well-maintained, ensuring a strong signal in Ghent’s dense city center, its historic districts, and the surrounding areas. So, when you’re looking for a provider, you can rest assured that they are all using a reliable backbone to keep you connected.
| Pros | Cons |
| Convenience: No physical SIM cards to handle. | Compatibility: Not all phones support eSIM technology. |
| Instant Activation: Get connected as soon as you land. | Data-Only: Many eSIMs don’t come with a phone number. |
| Cost Savings: Avoid expensive international roaming fees. | Troubleshooting: Can be more difficult to troubleshoot than a physical SIM. |
| Dual SIM: Keep your home number active for calls/texts. | Limited Plans: Plans can sometimes be less flexible than a local SIM. |
| Flexibility: Easily switch providers and plans for different trips. | FUP: “Unlimited” plans may have fair usage policies that slow speeds. |
This is a big one. Before you buy an eSIM, you have to make sure your phone is compatible. The good news is that most newer phones support eSIM technology. iPhones, starting with the iPhone XS and newer, are good to go. Most recent Samsung Galaxy phones and Google Pixel phones also support it.
The best way to be sure is to check your phone’s settings or look up your specific model on the manufacturer’s website. You’ll also need to make sure your phone is unlocked, meaning it’s not tied to a specific carrier. This is a critical step because a locked phone won’t be able to use an eSIM from a different provider.
Paying for your eSIM is easy and secure. All of the major providers we’ve reviewed accept standard payment methods. You can usually pay with a credit or debit card, like Visa, Mastercard, or American Express. Many also accept digital wallets like PayPal, Google Pay, and Apple Pay. Some providers might even accept local payment gateways or even cryptocurrency. The process is simple, just like any other online purchase.
This is a common question, and we’ll break it down for you.
| Aspect | eSIM | Physical SIM |
| Convenience | Instantly downloaded and activated. No need to visit a store. | Requires physical purchase and insertion. |
| Cost | Often more affordable than roaming, with competitive prepaid plans. | Can sometimes be slightly cheaper for long-term use. |
| Flexibility | Easy to switch plans or providers on the fly. | Stuck with one provider; requires a new purchase to switch. |
| Phone Number | Mostly data-only, though some offer a local number. | Comes with a local number and plan. |
| Compatibility | Requires a newer, unlocked phone. | Works in all unlocked phones with a SIM card slot. |
| Risk of Loss | None, as it’s a digital profile. | Easy to lose or damage the small card. |
| Installation | Scan a QR code or use the app. | Fiddly process of opening the tray and inserting the card. |
You have a few choices when it comes to data plans, and your decision should depend on what kind of traveler you are. For a short trip, a small plan with 1-3 GB of data is likely enough for basic navigation, social media, and communication.
If you’re staying longer or are a heavy data user, a 5-10 GB plan is a safer bet. For those who want to stream a lot of videos or work on the go, an eSIM Ghent unlimited data plan from providers like Holafly is the way to go. Speeds are typically fast, with 4G being standard across Ghent and 5G becoming more common in the city center.
Different trips call for different connectivity solutions. For History Buffs exploring the Gravensteen and St. Bavo’s Cathedral, a smaller, affordable data plan from a provider like Saily is a great choice, since you’ll mostly need data for navigation and researching sites.
Foodies and Day-Trippers who are constantly looking up restaurant reviews, using GPS, and sharing photos on social media might need a more generous plan from a provider like Airalo or Nomad, especially if you’re planning a trip to Bruges or Brussels.
For Digital Nomads, an eSIM Ghent unlimited data plan from Holafly is the only real choice, as it provides the peace of mind that you’ll never run out of data for work. You might also want to search for community recommendations on a site like Best eSIM Ghent Reddit for firsthand experiences from other travelers. For travel across multiple countries, a regional eSIM for Europe is a solid choice.
Setting up your eSIM is really easy. First, you buy your plan online and you’ll get an email with a QR code. Then, you just go into your phone’s settings, find the “Add Cellular Plan” option, and scan the QR code. The eSIM profile will download automatically.
Once you land in Ghent, you’ll simply switch your data to the new eSIM line, and you’re good to go. Most providers have a step-by-step guide in their app to make this process even easier. Remember, you can do most of this at home before you leave.
While an eSIM is a secure way to connect, it’s still important to practice good digital hygiene. This means being mindful of what you do on public Wi-Fi networks and considering a VPN for extra security. Also, be aware of your data usage. While some plans are unlimited, a good practice is to download maps or other large files when you have Wi-Fi to save your cellular data for when you’re on the move.
After a thorough review, our top recommendation for the best eSIM for Ghent is Saily. It’s the perfect blend of affordability, security, and ease of use for the average traveler. It provides a reliable connection with a fantastic value for money, making it a stress-free choice for your trip to Belgium. The added security features are a significant bonus.
If you’re ready to make your Ghent trip unforgettable and stay connected effortlessly, we highly recommend Saily. Their combination of a seamless user experience, competitive pricing, and robust security features makes them an undeniable front-runner. Don’t waste your precious travel time hunting for a physical SIM card—get your Saily eSIM today and get connected before you even pack your bags.
An eSIM is a digital SIM card that’s built into your phone. It works by allowing you to download a cellular plan without needing a physical card. For Ghent travel, this means you can buy a data plan online, get it installed on your phone, and have instant connectivity as soon as you arrive, so you can start exploring without delay.
For most travelers, yes, an eSIM is better. It offers a lot more convenience, instant activation, and the ability to keep your home number active. While a local Belgian prepaid SIM card can sometimes offer slightly better pricing for very long stays, the hassle-free experience of an eSIM usually outweighs the small cost difference.
Yes, you can. Providers like Holafly offer eSIM Ghent unlimited data plans. These are great for heavy data users who plan to stream videos, use social media constantly, or need their connection for work. It’s a great way to have peace of mind without worrying about running out of data.
The entire city of Ghent, including its historic Old Town, the modern Portus Ganda, and the surrounding Flemish region, has excellent coverage. The eSIMs we recommend partner with major local networks like Proximus and Telenet, ensuring a strong signal in all key areas and even for day trips to places like Bruges or Brussels.
It’s a good idea to purchase and install your eSIM before you travel, but you should not activate the data plan until you are close to or in Belgium. This way, the plan’s validity period starts when you’re actually there and need it.
Most eSIMs are data-only, but a few providers like aloSIM and Holafly offer plans that can include a Belgian phone number. This can be a useful feature if you need to make local calls or receive SMS for things like two-factor authentication or reservations.
