Planning a trip to the Philippines and thinking of using Airalo for mobile data?
You’re not alone—it’s one of the most searched eSIMs for travelers heading to Manila, Cebu, or Palawan.
But before you hit “purchase,” it’s worth asking: Airalo vs GOHUB—what’s actually better for PH travel?
Will Airalo’s eSIM actually work well across the Philippines?
Is it reliable, fast, and stress-free to use while island-hopping or working remotely?
In this honest Airalo eSIM Philippines review, we’ll walk through:
- What Airalo actually offers in the Philippines
- Real-world performance (speed, coverage, ease of use)
- What travelers love—and what frustrates them
- And why Gohub might be a smarter, more reliable alternative, especially if you’re planning a multi-city adventure or need solid support on the go
Let’s dive in before your Grab app fails to load in El Nido.
I. What Airalo Offers in the Philippines
In this updated Airalo eSIM Philippines review, let’s take a closer look at what Airalo actually provides for travelers visiting the Philippines in 2025.
Airalo sells data-only prepaid eSIMs that are ideal for tourists looking to stay connected for maps, rideshare, messaging, and social media.
Available Plans (as of 2025):
| Data | Validity | Price (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| 1 GB | 7 days | $4.50 |
| 3 GB | 30 days | $9.00 |
| 5 GB | 30 days | $13.00 |
| 10 GB | 30 days | $20.00 |
| 20 GB | 30 days | $30.00 |
Prices and availability may vary slightly based on currency exchange and local promotions.
How to Activate the Airalo Philippines eSIM
After purchase, you’ll receive a QR code and step-by-step setup instructions.
You can also install it directly through the Airalo app (on supported devices).
Activation typically begins when the eSIM connects to a local network (Smart or Globe).
Some Android users may need to manually configure APN settings — you can learn more about how to set APN manually on Android.
Which Network Does Airalo Use in the Philippines?
Airalo partners with Smart and Globe, the country’s two major telecom providers. Coverage is generally reliable in urban hubs like Manila, Cebu, and Davao. Signal quality may vary on remote islands like Siargao, Palawan, or Bohol, and in mountainous or rural areas. Not sure your phone supports eSIM? Check the eSIM-compatible device list.
II. Pros & Cons of Using Airalo in the Philippines
Airalo is a globally trusted eSIM provider, but when it comes to traveling in the Philippines, the experience can be a bit more mixed depending on where you’re going and how tech-savvy you are.
Here’s a breakdown of what works—and what doesn’t.
Pros
| Advantage | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| Affordable Entry Plans | Starts at just $4.50 for 1GB — great for short stays |
| Easy to Purchase | Buy and install directly from the Airalo app |
| Good Coverage in Cities | Works well in Manila, Cebu, Davao, and other urban areas |
| Widely Compatible | Supports most modern iOS and Android phones |
Cons
| Limitation | Why It Could Be a Problem |
|---|---|
| No Live Chat Support | Customer service is email-only; response times vary |
| Manual APN Setup on Android | Some devices require extra steps—confusing for first-time users |
| Spotty Signal on Islands | Inconsistent performance in Siargao, Palawan, and Bohol |
| No Free Trial or Easy Refunds | You pay upfront with no guarantee unless support approves |
III. What It’s Like Using Airalo in the Philippines (Real Trip Example)
I tested Airalo’s eSIM during a 10-day trip across the Philippines, covering Manila, Siargao, and Cebu. Here’s exactly how it went down—from airport arrival to my last mango shake on the beach.
Day 1 – Arrival in Manila: Quick Setup, Solid Signal
I installed the eSIM while still on Wi-Fi at my hotel. The QR code worked fine on my iPhone, and the signal kicked in as soon as I connected to the Smart network. Speeds were solid—Google Maps, Grab, and Instagram worked without issues.
So far, so good.
Day 3 – Siargao: Sunshine, Surf… and No Signal
Here’s where things got patchy.
Once I landed in Siargao, the signal dropped to 3G—or disappeared entirely in more remote parts of the island. I had to rely on café Wi-Fi for everything. Airalo support? I emailed them… and heard back 2 days later (after I already left the island).
Day 7 – Cebu: Fast Again, But Activation Felt Fragile
In Cebu City, things improved. 4G speeds were back, but I did notice the connection dropped when I moved through certain areas with older infrastructure. My Android friend had a tougher time—he had to manually enter APN settings just to get it working.
Final Thoughts
Would I recommend Airalo in the Philippines?
Yes—but only if you’re staying in major cities and don’t mind troubleshooting.
If your trip involves rural areas, island hopping, or you need real-time support, you’ll want something more reliable.
Spoiler: that’s where Gohub really shines. More on that next.
IV. Who Should Choose Gohub Over Airalo in the Philippines?
Airalo might work for casual tourists who stay in major cities and don’t need much data.
But if your travel style goes beyond “just Manila,” Gohub is probably the better fit.
Here’s who will benefit most from switching to Gohub’s eSIM:
Digital Nomads & Remote Workers
Spending a few weeks (or months) working from beach cafés in Siargao or Bohol?
You need reliable 4G, stable hotspotting, and fast support if things go wrong.
Gohub’s real-human live chat + strong Smart/Globe connectivity has your back.
Backpackers & Island-Hoppers
If you’re bouncing between Manila, Palawan, Cebu, and Coron, you’ll want seamless coverage and a setup that won’t break mid-transit.
Gohub makes it easy: one install, no QR mess, no profile juggling.
First-Time eSIM Users
Airalo might confuse newbies with QR codes and manual APN settings.
Gohub simplifies everything with in-app installation and quick-start guides that anyone can follow.
Travelers Going Beyond the Philippines
If you’re also visiting Vietnam, Thailand, or Japan, Gohub’s regional eSIM plans mean you won’t have to start from scratch in each country.
V. FAQ – Airalo eSIM for the Philippines
1. Does Airalo offer eSIMs for the Philippines?
Yes. Airalo sells prepaid eSIM packages that work in the Philippines, giving travelers access to local data without needing a physical SIM card.
2. How does Airalo’s Philippines eSIM work?
After purchase, you receive a QR code. Scan it on your phone, and the eSIM activates once you arrive in the Philippines with mobile data enabled.
3. Which devices are compatible with Airalo eSIM?
Most recent models such as iPhone XS and newer, Samsung Galaxy S20 and newer, and Google Pixel 3 and newer are eSIM-ready. You can check full device compatibility here.
4. Is Airalo eSIM fast in the Philippines?
Speeds vary. Airalo connects to local networks like Globe or Smart, which generally provide good 4G/5G coverage in cities, but speeds can drop in rural areas.
5. Can I make calls or send SMS with Airalo eSIM in the Philippines?
No. Airalo eSIMs are data-only, meaning you’ll need apps like WhatsApp, Messenger, or Viber to make calls and send messages.
6. How much does an Airalo Philippines eSIM cost?
Plans start from a few USD for short-term packages, but they’re often more expensive than GoHub, which offers better value for long stays.
7. Can I top up Airalo eSIM in the Philippines?
Yes. You can top up through the Airalo app, but prices are usually higher compared to buying a local SIM or a GoHub eSIM.
8. Is Airalo better than GoHub in the Philippines?
Airalo: Convenient for quick, short trips, but pricier and data-only.
GoHub: Up to 50% cheaper, offers more flexible data packages, and provides 24/7 multilingual support—making it a stronger choice for most travelers.
VI. Is Airalo the Best eSIM for the Philippines?
After going through this Airalo eSIM Philippines review, it’s clear that while Airalo works in many situations, it may not be the best choice for every traveler.
If you’re only visiting Manila for a few days, Airalo might get the job done.
But if your plans involve island-hopping, remote work, or crossing over to other Southeast Asian countries, Gohub offers a more flexible, traveler-friendly alternative.
From faster support and smoother setup to stronger rural connectivity and a refund guarantee, Gohub simply makes travel easier—especially in the Philippines.
Try Gohub’s Philippines eSIM Today
✅ Plans from just $2.41
✅ Instant, QR-free setup
✅ 24/7 real-human support
✅ Free trial available
✅ 100% refund if it doesn’t work
👉 Explore Philippines eSIM Plans
👉 Download the Gohub App – iOS & Android
You read the full Airalo eSIM Philippines review—now try the eSIM built for real-world travel.
Choose Gohub and stay connected with confidence.
