Smarty
1+ destinations
Smarty is a UK mobile network that offers an eSIM, so its plans are aimed at travellers who need data and calls in the United Kingdom.
- September 1, 2026
Smarty vs Airalo
Smarty is a UK mobile network offering an eSIM for the United Kingdom, while Airalo is a travel eSIM marketplace covering a very large number of countries. Smarty suits UK-only trips with calls and SMS; Airalo suits travel beyond the UK.
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Quick comparison
| Feature | Smarty | Airalo |
|---|---|---|
| Plan model | Network plan (data, calls, SMS) | Fixed data, some unlimited |
| Typical data options | UK data plans | 1 GB to 20 GB+ |
| Validity options | UK plan lengths | 7 to 30 days and up |
| Destination coverage | United Kingdom | Very broad |
| Hotspot | Plan dependent | Plan dependent |
| Phone number | Typically included (UK) | Not typically included |
| SMS | Typically included (UK) | Not typically included |
| Regional / global plans | No | Yes |
| Installation | QR code or in-app | QR code or in-app |
| Goes live | On activation in the UK | On connection in destination |
Which traveller each option suits
Best for a UK trip with calls and SMS
Smarty is a UK network, so plans typically include UK data, calls and SMS.
Best for travel beyond the UK
Airalo covers a very large number of countries, which suits multi-country or non-UK trips.
The providers
Airalo
200+ destinations
Airalo is a marketplace-style eSIM provider offering country-specific, regional and global data plans across a large number of destinations, with fixed-data packages as its core product.
- Hotspot on some plans
- September 1, 2026
Comparison FAQ
Can I use the Smarty eSIM outside the UK?
Smarty is a UK network, so its plans are for the United Kingdom. For other countries, use a travel eSIM such as Airalo.
Does Airalo include a UK phone number?
Most Airalo plans are data-only. If you need a UK number with calls and SMS, a UK network eSIM like Smarty is often more suitable.
Destinations
Check current prices
Prices, features and availability change. Confirm the current details on each provider's website.