Staying connected while travelling has become so much easier thanks to the development of eSims. Short for embedded SIM, an eSIM is a digital SIM that lets you activate a cellular plan without needing a physical card. It’s a game-changer for frequent travelers, remote workers, and anyone who hates the hassle of traditional SIMs.
The concept of eSIMs has been around for a while, but they started gaining mainstream traction in the late 2010s. Major smartphone manufacturers, including Apple and Google, began integrating eSIM technology into their devices, making it easier than ever for users to switch between carriers and purchase data plans on the go. Now, with an increasing number of providers offering eSIM services, many companies are tapping into the power of digital marketing to spread the word.
Marketing eSIMs isn’t just about explaining the tech—it’s about showing how they make life easier. That’s where YouTube creators come in. Travel vloggers, digital nomads, and adventure influencers live the kind of lifestyles that make eSIMs essential.
Founded in 2019, Airalo was created with a simple mission: to eliminate the frustration of finding and purchasing local SIM cards while traveling. The company provides access to affordable eSIM plans in over 200 countries, allowing users to download a local data plan instantly. What started as a niche solution for tech-savvy travelers has quickly grown into a global brand, thanks in part to its smart marketing strategies and strong partnerships with influencers.
As one of the leading eSIM providers, Airlo has fully embraced influencer marketing, strategically partnering with popular YouTube channels to showcase its services. By working with high-profile creators, Airalo reaches a global audience, demonstrating firsthand how eSIMs simplify travel connectivity.
One of Airalo’s most successful collaborations has been with Yes Theory, a YouTube channel with almost 10 million subscribers known for its high-energy, adventure-driven content. Their videos inspire viewers to seek out new experiences and step outside their comfort zones—an ideal setting to highlight the convenience of eSIMs.
In each of these cases, Airalo’s eSIMs weren’t just mentioned—they were an important part of the journey, making them feel like a natural fit rather than an interruption.
Yes Theory isn’t the only channel Airalo has teamed up with. The company has broadened its YouTube marketing strategy by collaborating with other popular travel influencers, each catering to different audiences:
Through these strategic partnerships, Airalo effectively reaches a wide range of travelers—from backpackers to business professionals—reinforcing the value of eSIMs across different travel styles.
Holafly, founded in 2017 by Pedro Máiquez and Lydia Hu after their travels in Thailand, provides easy internet connectivity for travelers. In 2018, they introduced eSIM technology, enabling remote data plan purchases. Between 2019 and 2021, they expanded into France and Germany and established offices in Valencia and Medellín. Their growth continued in 2022 with new offices in Lima and Bangkok, alongside the launch of their mobile apps. They have become one of the leading eSIM providers, offering prepaid data plans to travelers in over 190 countries.
One of Holafly’s most successful YouTube collaborations has been with Go With Ali, a travel and lifestyle channel run by Ali, a globetrotter who immerses himself in different cultures and shares his experiences with a dedicated audience of over a million subscribers. His channel features firsthand perspectives on local cuisine, attractions, and cultural experiences, making him a great fit for promoting Holafly’s eSIM services.
Ali’s partnership with Holafly has resulted in millions of views. They recently partnered together for a number of videos taking place during Ali’s trip to Japan. Some standout collab videos include:
Holafly has partnered with several other prominent travel influencers, each with their own distinct audience and niche:
When done right, influencer marketing isn’t just an add-on, it’s a game-changer. eSIM companies like Airalo and Holafly have mastered the art of partnering with travel creators, turning their services into must-haves for globetrotters.
The result? Tens of millions of views and a massive boost in brand visibility. The lesson is clear: authentic, well-placed influencer collaborations can take your marketing strategy to the next level.