eSIM is the smartest and cheapest way to get data in the USA without paying a fortune to your Israeli cellphone company. From Airalo to Holafly — here's everything you need to know before World Cup 2026.
An eSIM (Embedded SIM) is a digital SIM card built into the phone — no need to pop out a physical SIM tray. The eSIM is available on iPhone XS and later and on most Android devices from 2019 onward (Samsung Galaxy S20 and later, Google Pixel 4 and later).
Why not buy an Israeli roaming package? Simple — it's very expensive. Israeli companies charge 30-60 NIS per day for data in the USA, meaning for 3 weeks of the World Cup you'd pay 600-1,200 NIS. With an eSIM you'll pay around 150-250 NIS for the same period, with more data and the same quality of service.
Airalo — the world's largest eSIM platform. Price for the USA: about $9 for 1GB, $19 for 3GB, $35 for 5GB. Coverage is broad and uses the AT&T and T-Mobile networks. Partial Hebrew interface, ordering through a simple app. Recommended for: Short trips of up to 2 weeks.
Holafly — offers unlimited data packages for a fixed price. About $27 for 7 days, $47 for 15 days, $67 for 30 days. Perfect for World Cup viewers who use a lot of data — streaming, WhatsApp, navigation. Recommended for: Long trips with heavy data use.
eSIM Israel — an Israeli company that sells eSIMs for travel abroad. Advantage: Hebrew support, billing in NIS, easy to explain to grandma. Prices are slightly higher than the international alternatives, but the convenience is worth it for some.
Q: Does the iPhone 13 support eSIM?
A: Yes. Every iPhone XS and later supports eSIM. iPhone 14 and later sold in the USA is eSIM-only (no physical slot). Make sure your phone isn't locked to a specific Israeli SIM.
Q: Can you use an Israeli phone number and an eSIM at the same time?
A: Yes! Most new phones support Dual SIM — the Israeli SIM for calls and the eSIM for data. This way you get both without roaming costs.
Q: When should you activate the eSIM?
A: It's recommended to activate it while you're still in Israel on a WiFi network — the process is quick (2-3 minutes) and saves hassle at the airport.
eSIM sorted — all set? Now take care of your tickets. Sports packages and tickets for upcoming matches with TikTik and be fully prepared.
