Revolut eSIM – Real User Reviews, Facts & Comparison
Revolut eSIM offers instant, affordable global data for travellers - we share real user reviews, pricing, and comparisons with Spark, One NZ and 2degrees.
Updated 21 October 2025
Why We’re Sharing User Reviews
Quick Stats from Revolut eSIM User Feedback
In this guide, we explain Revolut’s eSIM functionality, how their plans work, their costs, and the main pros and cons for travellers. We cover:
Why We’re Sharing User Reviews
- MoneyHub readers have consistently asked whether Revolut’s eSIM is a practical and cost-effective alternative to regular mobile roaming and standalone travel eSIMs. This guide is the first version after we invited readers to share real experiences about Revolut eSIM activation, coverage, speed, costs, and support.
- Important: The testimonials featured in this guide are genuine and unedited for sentiment (we only correct spelling and remove identifying details). We do not publish paid reviews.
Quick Stats from Revolut eSIM User Feedback
- Most‑praised feature: Simple in‑app purchase and instant setup
- Biggest surprise: Pricing is competitive with local SIMs in popular destinations
- Customer support sentiment: Users highlight quick responses in‑app
- Main concern: Data‑only (no calls/SMS)
- Best suited for: Travellers who have eSIM‑capable phones
In this guide, we explain Revolut’s eSIM functionality, how their plans work, their costs, and the main pros and cons for travellers. We cover:
Know This First: What is eSIM?
Important: Unlike traditional roaming from Spark, One NZ, or 2degrees where you can make regular phone calls and send SMS texts, Revolut's eSIM provides data only. This means you can't:
However, you can:
The reality: Most New Zealanders travelling overseas are not limited by "data-only" roaming - WhatsApp calling works perfectly, and keeping your physical SIM active means you can still receive important calls if needed. But if you need to make lots of traditional phone calls abroad, we suggest keeping your network's roaming plan.
- An Embedded SIM (eSIM) is a digital SIM that allows users to activate a mobile plan from a mobile network without needing a physical SIM card. Embedded directly into your device, eSIM technology simplifies the process of switching between mobile networks and managing multiple accounts.
- Unlike traditional SIM cards, eSIMs are built into your smartphone, tablet, or wearable device, and can be reprogrammed as needed, offering unparalleled flexibility and convenience. Visit our eSIM guide to learn more about this technology.
Important: Unlike traditional roaming from Spark, One NZ, or 2degrees where you can make regular phone calls and send SMS texts, Revolut's eSIM provides data only. This means you can't:
- Make or receive regular phone calls on your NZ number through the eSIM
- Send or receive traditional SMS texts
- Receive two-factor authentication texts (unless the service supports app-based authentication)
However, you can:
- Use WhatsApp, Messenger etc for calls and messages
- Access all internet-based apps (maps, email, social media, banking)
- Keep your physical SIM active for emergency calls/texts (dual SIM)
- Share data via hotspot with travel companions
The reality: Most New Zealanders travelling overseas are not limited by "data-only" roaming - WhatsApp calling works perfectly, and keeping your physical SIM active means you can still receive important calls if needed. But if you need to make lots of traditional phone calls abroad, we suggest keeping your network's roaming plan.
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MoneyHub Founder Christopher Walsh shares his views on Revolut eSIM:
"The emails we receive from MoneyHub readers tell a consistent story - Revolut's eSIM delivers reliable networks wherever they travel, so they're never stranded without data when they need it most. What really stands out is the peace of mind it provides. Too many New Zealanders have been stung by roaming horror stories - a quick map check that costs $50, forgetting to turn off data during a stopover and getting a $200 bill, or that dreaded moment when you realise your 'plan' expired at midnight NZ time while you were still using it in London. The traditional telcos have profited from these mistakes for years, as outlined in this Reddit post and this NZ Herald story. With Revolut's eSIM, you simply turn off your physical SIM's data roaming and rely on affordable, transparent data that won't incur any charges, as you prepay for a package and receive your data allocation. There's no small print about 'casual rates' at $11.50 per 200MB, no confusion about time zones and no risk of connecting to the wrong network at a border. For less than $20, you get 3GB in the USA - enough for a week of normal use. With Spark, you'd pay $25 for 2GB that expires based on NZ time. With One NZ on prepay, exceeding your limit means paying a substantial amount per GB. My view is simple and shared by the Reddit community - get an eSIM before you travel, load it with more data than you think you'll need (it's affordable enough), and travel without the anxiety of a potential bill blowout. Revolut's eSIM exists to give travellers a fair deal - I'm a huge fan of it and always use it. In recent years, I have used Revolut eSIM plans and packages in Australia, Singapore, Oman, the UK, France, Italy, the USA and Switzerland - what they offer is brilliant - and I continue to buy their plans. |
Christopher Walsh
MoneyHub Founder |
What Makes Revolut’s Offering Different to Other eSIM and Roaming Plans?
Revolut’s eSIM is designed for simplicity and global coverage:
Revolut eSIM plan types are sold by country, region, and, for those moving around, there are the options of global packs. Each plan allows you to select specific options:
- Instant data access – connect instantly in 100+ countries.
- Low entry pricing – plans start from around $7 NZD for 1 GB (depending on your location).
- Flexible plans – country‑specific, regional, and global options (1–100 GB).
- No SIM swap – eSIM runs alongside your physical SIM, so you don’t need to remove your regular SIM from your phone.
- Easy setup – install once, top up in‑app whenever needed.
- 24/7 support – Revolut's in-app assistance is available at any time.
- Security focus – the eSIM service is backed by Revolut’s global financial infrastructure.
Revolut eSIM plan types are sold by country, region, and, for those moving around, there are the options of global packs. Each plan allows you to select specific options:
- Validity: 7, 30, or 60 days
- Data sizes: 1 GB, 3 GB, 5 GB, 10 GB, 20 GB, 50 GB, 100 GB
- Tethering / hotspot: Supported
- Number/voice/SMS: Not supported. Revolut’s eSIM is for Data‑only. Use WhatsApp/VoIP for calls
- Supports iOS/Android: Yes (eSIM‑capable devices only)
- Support channels: 24/7 in‑app chat
Consider Revolut eSIM for Instant Global Data Roaming - Our Favourite Solution
Our research team has thoroughly tested Revolut's eSIM service, and we're impressed. Here's why:
Our verdict: After comparing all options, Revolut's eSIM offers the best combination of price, convenience, and coverage for New Zealanders travelling overseas. It has been tried and tested by MoneyHub's editor, team members, and readers - it is designed to deliver value and reliability to its users.
Important: Check your phone supports eSIM first - most phones from 2019 onwards do. The Revolut app will confirm compatibility instantly.
Our research team has thoroughly tested Revolut's eSIM service, and we're impressed. Here's why:
- Beat the NZ networks on price - Save 30-60% compared to Spark, One NZ, and 2degrees roaming rates
- No bill shock surprises - Fixed prices from $6.89 for 1GB. No "casual rates" of $11.50/200MB like traditional roaming
- Instant activation - Set up in 5 minutes through the app, connects automatically when you land
- Top up without WiFi - Run out of data? Add more instantly, even without an internet connection
- Works in 100+ countries - One eSIM for your entire trip, whether it's Australia, Europe, or beyond
- Keep your NZ number - Dual SIM means Revolut handles data while your regular SIM stays active for calls
Our verdict: After comparing all options, Revolut's eSIM offers the best combination of price, convenience, and coverage for New Zealanders travelling overseas. It has been tried and tested by MoneyHub's editor, team members, and readers - it is designed to deliver value and reliability to its users.
Important: Check your phone supports eSIM first - most phones from 2019 onwards do. The Revolut app will confirm compatibility instantly.
Revolut eSIM Pricing
We outline popular destinations and pricing below:
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Revolut eSIM Country Specific Plans (in NZD)
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Revolut eSIM Regional & Global Plans (in NZD)
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How to Buy and Use a Revolut eSIM:
Our Tips:
- Check compatibility: Ensure your phone supports eSIM and is unlocked.
- Open the Revolut app: Go to RevPoints > Products > eSIM > Get Data Plan.
- Choose coverage: Select a country, region, or global plan.
- Pick a pack: From 1 GB (7 days) to 100 GB (60 days).
- Pay in‑app: Use Revolut balance or linked card.
- Install & activate: Follow in‑app prompts. Once installed, you can top up at any time without needing to reinstall.
Our Tips:
- Turn off your roaming to avoid being charged for mobile calls and texts - Revolut handles all data which means all communication needs to use data-based apps (WhatsApp etc).
- Track your data usage in‑app and receive alerts when data is low - Revolut makes this easy to set up.
- Hotspot to laptops/tablets is supported so you can share your data with those travelling with you
- If you have multiple eSIMs installed on your device, they will only display the name automatically assigned to your eSIM (for example, 1Global). Rename them to include the name of the associated app (Saily / Revolut / Holafly etc) so you know which one you’re using.
Revolut eSIM ​User Reviews and Real‑World Feedback
We have collated recent Revolut eSIM feedback received from New Zealanders who have used the service overseas:
Coverage & Reliability
Ease of Purchase & Activation
Costs & Value
Customer Support
Downsides (and What You Need to Be Aware Of):
Coverage & Reliability
- “We are currently in Italy doing the Via Francigena walk. Revolut eSIM is so good. Two years back, we used One NZ - it was (and still is) expensive. Revolut, NZ$25 for 5GB over 28 days, totally magic. Thanks for the tip MoneyHub.”
- “I used Revolut’s eSIM across France and Spain - the coverage was decent in the cities and fine for maps and messaging while travelling by train. It did drop out briefly in rural areas, but nothing major.”
Ease of Purchase & Activation
- “I set it up in the Revolut app before flying out of Auckland Airport. It took less than five minutes, and it just worked when I landed in LAX. Easier than hunting for a SIM card at the airport.”
- “Activation was smooth, but you do need Wi‑Fi to get it started. Don’t leave it until you’re in the middle of nowhere.”
Costs & Value
- “For a two‑week trip to Japan, I bought a 10GB pack through Revolut for less than half what Spark would have charged me. Used hotspot for my partner’s phone as well, it was better than the hotel’s patchy Wifi”
- “I liked being able to top up mid‑trip directly in the app. It was great not having to worry about coming home to a massive roaming bill from my mobile provider.”
Customer Support
- “I had a question about data coverage in a rural area for a walking trip. I opened the in‑app chat and got a reply within seconds. It was their automated AI assistant, but it was really helpful and faster than waiting to chat to someone from a call centre.”
Downsides (and What You Need to Be Aware Of):
- “It’s data‑only, so you need WhatsApp or similar for calls. Not a big deal for me, but worth noting.”
- “I was travelling across Spain and Portugal, so I bought two separate data packs. It was still super affordable, but I was annoyed when I realised I could have simply bought one plan for Europe instead, because I had unused data for Spain.”
Revolut eSIM's ​Pros and Cons
Before making any decision about buying an eSIM or roaming plan, we outline what you need to know about Revolut's eSIM offering:
Pros:
Cons:
Our View
Pros:
- Wide coverage (100+ countries, plus regional and global packs)
- Instant setup in‑app
- Flexible pack sizes (1 GB to 100 GB)
- Ultra subscribers get 3 GB of global data included per month
- Transparent one‑off pricing
- Hotspot supported
- 24/7 in‑app support
Cons:
- Data‑only (no calls/SMS)
- Multi‑country trips outside regional packs require separate purchases
- Requires an eSIM‑capable and unlocked phone
- Regional/global plans can be pricier than local SIMs
Our View
- Revolut’s eSIM offers one of the most convenient ways for New Zealanders to stay online abroad. It might not always be the absolute cheapest option, but the combination of global coverage, app integration, larger pack sizes, and Ultra subscription perks makes it a strong option.
- Best for: Travellers who want simple in‑app data control, predictable pricing, and quick activation.
- Not ideal for: People with older phones that are incapable of handling eSIM, or those who need to continue sending and receiving texts and making phone calls from their usual number.
Revolut eSIM vs Spark, One NZ and 2degrees Roaming in Australia, Europe and the USA
We compare the most popular destinations for New Zealanders needing data roaming overseas:
Australia (1 week stay)
Europe (2 weeks)
USA (1 week)
Key Advantages of Revolut eSIM
Australia (1 week stay)
- Revolut eSIM: $7.00(1GB) to $14.50(3GB)
- Spark: $25 for 2GB
- One NZ: $70 (using existing plan at $10/day)
- 2degrees: $56 ($8/day)
- Our View: Revolut wins for light users, competitive for heavy users
Europe (2 weeks)
- Revolut eSIM: $21.50(3GB) to $63.50(10GB)
- Spark: $50 (2x 2GB packs = 4GB total)
- One NZ: $140 ($10/day using existing plan)
- 2degrees: $112 ($8/day)
- Our View: Revolut significantly cheaper for all usage levels
USA (1 week)
- Revolut eSIM: $18.00 (3GB) to $44.00 (10GB)
- Spark: $25 (2GB)
- One NZ: $70 ($10/day)
- 2degrees: $56 ($8/day)
- Our View: Revolut cheaper except for very light users (under 2GB)
Key Advantages of Revolut eSIM
- No Daily Limits: NZ networks cap at 1-2GB per day. Revolut gives you your full allowance upfront.
- No Time Zone Confusion: NZ roaming plans expire at midnight NZ time - catch out many travelers. Revolut plans are straightforward.
- True Prepaid: Pay once, use until data runs out. No risk of bill shock from "casual rates" ($11.50/200MB on Spark).
- Instant Top-Up: Run out? Top up instantly in-app without WiFi. NZ networks require purchasing new packs.
- Multi-Country Travel: One eSIM works across regions. NZ networks charge different rates or exclude countries entirely (e.g., One NZ doesn't cover UAE in standard plans).
- No Accidental Charges: Physical SIM stays off = no risk of connecting to wrong network or premium services.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I check if my phone supports eSIM?
- For iOS: Go to Settings > Mobile/Cellular Data, and you should see an option to “Add eSIM”. Also, check that your phone is not locked. Go to Settings > General, and tap About. Under Carrier Lock, you should see a message that says "No SIM restrictions."
- For Android: Go to Settings > Network & Internet > SIMs. If you see "Add eSIM" or a profile called "1Global," your phone supports eSIM.
Additionally, if you have the Revolut app installed, you can access the 24/7 chat and ask the assistant if your phone is compatible. Under your profile, go to Help > Support > and ask if your phone can handle eSIM.
When does my eSIM data package begin?
After you install your eSIM and activate it on your device. If you already have an active eSIM and top it up, it will be activated automatically.
When does my plan end?
Either when the validity runs out (7, 30, 60 days) or when you’ve used all the data.
Can I check how much data I’ve used?
Yes - you can view the remaining data on your plan directly in the Revolut app. Also, if you have notifications enabled for Revolut, you’ll receive an alert when you’ve used 80% of your allowance.
​When should I activate my plan?
Ideally, on Wi‑Fi just before or on arrival - Revolut does offer free roaming for the purposes of buying and/or enabling its eSIM service, so you won't be caught out, but it's better to activate just before starting your trip.
How many eSIMs can I install?
That will depend on your phone model and your eSIM provider, but they would typically support multiple eSIMs.
Can I install the same eSIM on multiple devices?
No, you can only have one profile per device.
Is tethering / hotspotting allowed?
Yes, Revolut doesn’t impose any limits on tethering. You can use it for as long as you have data available.
Which networks provide coverage?
Revolut’s eSIM uses Truphone's global network platform (now part of 1Global) to automatically connect to the best available local mobile operator. For example, in the UK, it could connect to EE, Vodafone, O2, or another network, depending on which has the strongest signal in your area. You're not bound to a single mobile operator; the platform automatically selects the best network for you, providing the best possible coverage wherever you are.
Does Revolut offer regional or global packs?
Yes, it has regional data packs for Europe, Africa, Asia Pacific, Latin America, and North America. They also offer a Global plan covering all of those countries. You can find the full list of countries where they offer connectivity on the Revolut website.
Can I get free data if I have a premium Revolut account?
Yes, if you have an Ultra account with Revolut, you receive 3 GB of global data every month. This means you can use the data in any country covered by Revolut eSIM.
Please note, the Revolut Ultra account has not yet launched in New Zealand.
Please note, the Revolut Ultra account has not yet launched in New Zealand.
Can I keep my NZ number active after activating my Revolut eSIM?
Yes, dual SIM lets you use Revolut for data and keep calls/texts on your physical SIM.
What can I do if I run out of data?
You can top up instantly in the app (provided you have a WiFi connection).
Reminder - Consider Revolut eSIM for Instant Global Data Roaming - Our Favourite Solution
Our research team has thoroughly tested Revolut's eSIM service, and we're impressed. Here's why:
Our verdict: After comparing all options, Revolut's eSIM offers the best combination of price, convenience, and coverage for New Zealanders travelling overseas. It has been tried and tested by MoneyHub's editor, team members, and readers - it is designed to deliver value and reliability to its users.
Important: Check your phone supports eSIM first - most phones from 2019 onwards do. The Revolut app will confirm compatibility instantly.
Our research team has thoroughly tested Revolut's eSIM service, and we're impressed. Here's why:
- Beat the NZ networks on price - Save 30-60% compared to Spark, One NZ, and 2degrees roaming rates
- No bill shock surprises - Fixed prices from $6.89 for 1GB. No "casual rates" of $11.50/200MB like traditional roaming
- Instant activation - Set up in 5 minutes through the app, connects automatically when you land
- Top up without WiFi - Run out of data? Add more instantly, even without an internet connection
- Works in 100+ countries - One eSIM for your entire trip, whether it's Australia, Europe, or beyond
- Keep your NZ number - Dual SIM means Revolut handles data while your regular SIM stays active for calls
Our verdict: After comparing all options, Revolut's eSIM offers the best combination of price, convenience, and coverage for New Zealanders travelling overseas. It has been tried and tested by MoneyHub's editor, team members, and readers - it is designed to deliver value and reliability to its users.
Important: Check your phone supports eSIM first - most phones from 2019 onwards do. The Revolut app will confirm compatibility instantly.
