Travel Guide 2026
UK travelersBest eSIM for Spain from the UK
A UK-focused comparison for Spain: eSIM vs roaming vs local SIM. Avoid daily roaming charges, stay online in cities and islands (Mallorca, Tenerife), and keep costs predictable.
Spain is the #1 UK holiday destination: mainland city breaks plus islands like Mallorca and Tenerife. The travel internet decision got more important after Brexit because many UK plans brought back paid roaming in Europe.
Want the simplest path? Buy an eSIM for Spain. You get an iOS/Android install link plus a QR code by email. Tip: switch prices to GBP on the money page if you want UK-friendly pricing.
UK roaming after Brexit: what it can cost
Many UK carriers charge a daily fee for roaming in Europe (often around £2-£5/day depending on carrier and plan), which can turn into £14-£70 on a 7-14 day holiday. A prepaid travel eSIM gives you a fixed price for your data and avoids bill shock.
Local networks in Spain
Your speed depends on the partner network (e.g. Orange (4G), Vodafone (4G)). In most travel scenarios, 4G/LTE is the standard.
Comparison: roaming vs local SIM vs eSIM
| Option | Setup | Cost control | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Prepaid eSIM | Install link / QR, minutes | High (prepaid, no bill shock) | Most trips (city breaks, islands) |
| Roaming (home carrier) | Automatic | Low (caps, day passes) | Emergency use |
| Local prepaid SIM | Store visit + SIM swap (often ID) | Medium | Long stays, heavy usage |
| Pocket WiFi | Pickup/return + charging | Medium | Groups sharing one device |
Our recommendation for Spain
For most tourists, a prepaid eSIM is the easiest option: install before your flight and connect as soon as you land. Keep your primary SIM active for calls/SMS while the eSIM provides data.