Orange Travel eSIM Review: Travel Confidently with Europe's Telecom Giant

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We've all been there - scrolling through countless travel eSIM providers, each promising seamless connectivity at unbeatable prices.

The options seem endless, from startup companies with flashy apps to resellers with rock-bottom rates. In this sea of relatively unknown providers, it's easy to forget that sometimes, the tried-and-true solution comes from an industry veteran.

Enter Orange Travel eSIM, backed by a telecommunications giant serving 298 million customers across 26 countries. While newer players might offer trendier apps or slightly cheaper rates, there's something reassuring about choosing a provider that's been building and maintaining mobile networks since the dawn of cellular technology.

Remember the days of hunting down local SIM card shops, paying astronomical roaming fees, or relying on spotty hotel Wi-Fi? The emergence of eSIM technology promised to solve these headaches, but the flood of new providers has brought its own challenges - questionable network quality, unreliable customer service, and unexpected coverage gaps.

Orange Travel tackles these pain points head-on, leveraging their extensive network infrastructure and carrier relationships. Their eSIM solution offers the convenience modern travellers expect, backed by the reliability of a major telecom provider.

I've spent a week putting Orange Travel's eSIM through rigorous testing, from initial setup to real-world performance. While their approach might be more conservative than some competitors, I discovered a few compelling advantages - and yes, limitations - that could make or break your decision to choose them for your next journey.

Who is Orange Travel?

When it comes to telecommunications powerhouses, Orange stands in a league of its own. What started as France Télécom has evolved into a global giant serving 298 million customers across 26 countries. As France's largest telecommunications provider and the 11th largest globally, Orange brings serious infrastructure muscle to the travel connectivity game.

This isn't just another startup trying to break into the travel eSIM market. With 137,000 employees worldwide and deep-rooted carrier partnerships, Orange approaches travel connectivity from a position of established strength. They were among the first major telecom providers to embrace eSIM technology, and it shows in their refined approach to global connectivity.

What sets Orange Travel apart is their direct carrier relationship model. Unlike many travel eSIM providers that operate as marketplaces aggregating various carriers, Orange maintains tight control over their service quality. Their coverage spans over 160 destinations, and they offer both eSIM and physical SIM options - a flexibility that comes in handy for travellers with older devices.

The infrastructure advantages are clear: established network partnerships ensure reliable connectivity, while their direct service delivery model means fewer middlemen and more consistent quality control. Their 24/7 customer support isn't just a chatbot - it's backed by a multinational organization with a physical presence in key markets. If you've ever tried getting help with a travel eSIM at 3am, you'll appreciate the value of having a major telecom provider in your corner.

Tip: Not sure if your smartphone is eSIM-compatible? Check out this list of supported handsets.

How To Buy and Activate an eSIM From Orange Travel

Getting started with Orange Travel's eSIM is refreshingly straightforward, though there are some unique aspects you'll want to pay attention to. I'll walk you through the process I experienced, highlighting both the smooth sailing and the occasional choppy waters.

You can purchase your eSIM through either Orange Travel's website or their mobile app (iOS, Android) - I found the website offers a cleaner purchasing experience. Start by selecting your country (or region), and then the plan that suits your preferences. The checkout process is very straightforward.

Orange Travel’s Android app

They accept major credit cards (Visa and Mastercard), though be prepared for transactions in Euros if you're outside the Eurozone. An inconvenience worth noting: unlike some competitors, they don't support PayPal, Apple Pay, or Google Pay.

After purchase, you'll receive a welcome pack via email containing everything you need:

  • a QR code for installation
  • manual activation codes as backup (including SMDP+ address and activation code)
  • your French phone number (if purchased), and;
  • both PIN and PUK codes

Keep this email safe - you'll need these details later, especially that PIN code (default is 0000).

My welcome pack

Here's where Orange adds an extra layer of complexity: if you're planning to use your eSIM for more than 30 days, you'll need to register it with a valid ID or passport. This isn't just bureaucratic red tape - it's required by French legislation. Plan ahead, as registration can take up to 10 days to process. You’ll need a government-issued ID (such as a passport) and the process only takes a few minutes – the step-by-step instructions are pretty straightforward.

Welcome SMS upon activation with reminder to register eSIM

Installation follows different paths depending on your device. Orange provides detailed PDF guides for both iOS and Android users, complete with screenshots - a thoughtful touch that saved me from second-guessing each step. For iPhone users, it's mostly a matter of scanning the QR code and following on-screen prompts. Android users will navigate through their system settings menu, though the exact path varies by manufacturer.

One feature I particularly appreciate is the backup manual activation option. If you can't scan the QR code (it happens more often than you'd think), you can enter the activation codes manually. I've tested both methods, and while QR is quicker and more convenient, it's reassuring to have a Plan B.

The final setup steps involve some important customization. You'll need to enter your PIN code (remember that 0000?), select your network preferences, and organize your eSIM profile - I recommend naming it "Orange Travel" to distinguish it from your home SIM. If you're using dual SIM functionality, take a moment to configure which SIM handles calls, messages, and data. Trust me, sorting this out before you're standing in an airport taxi queue makes life much easier.

Note: The data plan will commence when you activate the eSIM. So, to get your money’s worth, it’s best to activate it as soon as your plane lands. It can take up to 5 minutes to connect to the local network the first time, so be patient.

Orange Travel eSIM Pricing Plans

Let's dive into Orange Travel's pricing structure - a mix of simplicity and constraints that reflects their established telecom roots. After comparing packages across multiple destinations, I've found their approach is distinctly different from budget-focused competitors.

Orange keeps it straightforward with two main regional offerings: Europe and World. While this might seem limiting compared to competitors offering five or six regional bundles, there's some logic to the simplification. Their European packages (covering 33 countries) are particularly compelling, taking advantage of Orange's strong presence in the region. You'll get access to all the major networks rather than being relegated to budget carriers.

All you have to decide is if you want to include calls and SMS with your data.

Here are some example plans:

eSIM - Data only:

  • Europe: €4.99 for 1GB, valid for 7 days
  • World: €35.99 for 10GB, valid for 14 days

eSIM/SIM - Data + Calls + SMS:

  • Europe: €19.99 for 12GB, valid for 14 days (unlimited calls in Europe, 30 mins rest of the world, 200 SMS)
  • Europe: €39.99 for 30GB, valid for 14 days (unlimited calls in Europe, 120 mins rest of the world, 1000 SMS)
  • France: (similar pricing and inclusions as Europe plans)

A key consideration: unlike some competitors who charge one price for Asia and another for the Americas, Orange's "World" rate standardises pricing across non-European destinations.

One distinctive aspect is their bundling approach. Rather than offering data-only budget options, some packages include calls and SMS capabilities. Surprisingly, you usually can't save money by opting out of voice services, it just limits the packages available. Voice access provides peace of mind, knowing you can make emergency calls if needed. Plus, receiving calls and SMS is free and doesn't count against your credit - a nice touch often overlooked by budget providers.

Their top-up system deserves special mention. You can't stack plans or accumulate data - each new purchase essentially replaces your existing balance. This means timing your top-ups becomes crucial; you'll want to exhaust your current package before adding more.

Where Orange truly shines is network quality. While some budget eSIMs connect you to the cheapest available network, Orange prioritizes premium carriers. In France, for instance, you're on their own network - one of the country's best. In other countries where they don’t have a native presence, they've negotiated access to top-tier providers. The difference is noticeable: fewer dead zones, more consistent speeds, and better indoor coverage.

The value proposition here isn't about having the absolute lowest price - you can usually find cheaper options from newer providers. Instead, Orange delivers reliability and service quality. For business travellers, digital nomads, or anyone who needs dependable connectivity rather than just the lowest possible rate, this premium positioning makes sense.

Real World Experience & Speed Test

After a week of putting Orange Travel's eSIM through its paces during a trip in Malaysia, I've gathered comprehensive data about real-world performance. Let me cut through the marketing claims and share what you can actually expect when using this service on the ground.

First, let's talk about raw performance. I easily connected to the Orange branded network (which partners with CelcomDigi in Malaysia), and consistently clocked download speeds between 65-75 Mbps in urban areas. These are very usable speeds, but a little shy of Malaysia’s fastest network, Maxis. But more importantly, unlike some budget eSIMs that suffer from wildly fluctuating speeds, Orange's network partnerships delivered consistent performance. Even during peak hours in busy areas, speeds rarely dipped below 50 Mbps. That means web pages load faster, music streams instantly, and HD videos don’t suffer from buffering.

Network stability proved to be one of Orange's strongest suits. Throughout my testing period, I experienced no disconnections at all. This stability shines brightest when you're relying on your connection for mission-critical tasks.

Speaking of real-world usage, I stress-tested the connection with some demanding scenarios. Simultaneous Google Maps navigation while streaming Spotify? No hiccups. Running a Zoom meeting while uploading photos to cloud storage? Smooth sailing. The low latency made even video calls feel natural rather than delayed.

However, the mobile app experience is where Orange shows its traditional telecom roots - and not always in a good way. While the interface is clean and functional, it lacks some modern conveniences. You can't easily track your data usage in real-time, something many newer eSIM providers offer. Account management is straightforward but basic, and the app doesn't save payment information for future purchases.

One particularly frustrating quirk: you'll need to enter your PIN code (that default 0000) every time you reactivate the eSIM. While this adds a layer of extra security security, it can be annoying if you frequently toggle between your home and travel SIMs. Additionally, the Android app has an odd limitation - you can't paste passwords into the login form, making it cumbersome if you use a password manager.

Despite these software limitations, the core connectivity experience remains solid. Orange's focus on network quality over flashy app features becomes apparent in daily use. When you're navigating unfamiliar streets or jumping between video calls, reliable performance trumps fancy interfaces every time.

What I Like About Orange Travel

Established Provider Reliability: Unlike newer eSIM companies, Orange's decades of telecommunications expertise translate into rock-solid service delivery and infrastructure advantages.

Physical Store Network: Having actual brick-and-mortar locations provides a valuable backup plan if you encounter issues while travelling - something virtual-only providers can't match.

Dedicated store: Orange Holiday SIM at Charles de Gaulle, Paris Airport.

The Orange Travel SIM/eSIM can also be found at convenience stores in France and Orange stores in Europe, Africa, the Middle East and the Caribbean.

Premium Network Partnerships: Rather than connecting through budget carriers, Orange prioritizes high-quality network partners, resulting in noticeably better coverage and speeds.

Power User Friendly: Plans up to 70GB cater perfectly to digital nomads and remote workers who need substantial data allowances for video calls and file uploads.

Dual Format Options: Availability of both eSIM and physical SIM cards ensures compatibility regardless of your device's age. Note: Delivery times for SIM cards range from 2-14 days, depending on the destination.

Hotspot Support: Full tethering capabilities let you share your connection across multiple devices or with travel buddies.

Free Incoming Communication: All incoming calls and SMS are free and don't deduct from your credit, keeping you reachable without stress about usage charges.

Voicemail Support: If your plan includes calls, then you also receive a voicemail service. Dial 888 and follow the instructions to activate and customise your message.

Pre-Trip Installation: You can set up your eSIM before departure while still having home internet available for troubleshooting - a significant advantage over providers requiring immediate activation.

24/7 Support: Customer service is backed by a multinational organization rather than a small startup team, providing more reliable assistance when needed.

Comprehensive Documentation: Crystal-clear setup guides available in 6 languages make installation and troubleshooting straightforward for international travellers.

Decent Refund Policy: 14-day money-back guarantee for unused eSIMs demonstrates confidence in their service quality.

What Could Be Better

Mandatory Registration Burden: The requirement to register with ID for trips over 30 days feels outdated, especially since other providers don’t do this, and the process can take up to 10 days and risks service deactivation if you forget.

Limited Regional Options: Only having "Europe" and "World" plans can feel restrictive compared to competitors offering more granular regional choices for optimizing costs.

Limited Plan Flexibility: Outside Europe, many destinations only offer a single 10GB/14-day plan option, lacking choices for light users or longer stays.

Inconsistent Global Coverage: While European coverage is excellent, service quality and availability can vary significantly in other regions.

Physical SIM Restrictions: Traditional SIM cards are only available for select destinations, limiting options for travellers with older devices.

Payment Method Limitations: Only accepting debit/credit cards (Visa/Mastercard) in Euros is inconvenient - the lack of PayPal, Apple Pay, or Google Pay support feels behind the times.

Non-Accumulative Top-ups: Having to exhaust your current balance before topping up, with no data rollover, requires careful timing and can lead to waste.

Persistent PIN Requirements: Having to enter the PIN code every time you reactivate the eSIM becomes tedious, especially for frequent travellers toggling between SIMs.

Basic Usage Monitoring: The app's inability to show real-time data usage statistics is a significant oversight in today's connected world.

Clunky Password Handling: The Android app's inability to paste passwords from password managers is a particularly annoying oversight.

App Feature Gaps: The mobile app lacks modern conveniences like saved payment methods and automated usage alerts that have become standard with newer providers.

Tips to Get the Most From Your Orange Travel eSIM

Perfect Timing Installation: Install your eSIM before leaving home while you still have reliable internet, but wait to activate it until you reach your destination to maximize your plan's validity period.

Pre-departure Network Setup: Configure your dual SIM settings before your trip, clearly labelling your Orange profile as "Travel" to avoid confusion when managing multiple SIMs.

Keep Your Plan Details: Save the welcome email containing your QR code, PIN, PUK, and activation codes in an easily accessible offline location - you'd be relieved if you ever need these details.

Record Your PIN: Write down your PIN code (default 0000) somewhere immediately accessible - you'll need it more frequently than with other eSIM providers, especially when switching between SIMs.

Data Saver: Enable data-saving features in your phone's settings and key apps before starting your journey - Orange's plans, while generous, don't accumulate when you top up.

Hotspot Optimization: When using your phone as a hotspot, connect to 5GHz rather than 2.4GHz when possible, for better speeds and lower battery impact.

Battery Life Extension: Toggle off your home SIM's data when using your Orange eSIM to prevent unnecessary battery drain from dual network searching.

Offline Map Lifeline: Download Google Maps areas on Wi-Fi before switching to your Orange eSIM to conserve data and ensure navigation even in spotty coverage areas.

Network Connection Tip: If your connection seems stuck, manually select the network through your phone's settings rather than relying on automatic selection. It can also help to turn off VoLTE in your phone settings.

Top-up Timing: Wait until your current plan is nearly exhausted before purchasing a top-up - new purchases replace existing balances rather than adding to them.

Note: When doing top-ups online, if your phone number has 13 digits, you must use the “SIM ID” option.

Registration Planning: If travelling longer than 30 days, start the registration process within your first week to ensure approval before the 30-day mark prevents service interruption.

Access Customer Support: Save Orange's support contact information offline, including their email ([email protected]) and support form URL for quick access when needed.

The Bottom Line

After thoroughly testing Orange Travel eSIM, I've found it offers a compelling solution for travellers who prioritize reliability over rock-bottom prices. While not the cheapest option in the travel eSIM market, Orange's established infrastructure and premium network partnerships deliver a consistency that budget providers struggle to match.

The service particularly shines for European travel, where Orange's extensive network relationships translate into superior coverage and speeds. Business travellers will appreciate the dependable support, while digital nomads and remote workers will find that reliable performance justifies the initial registration requirements.

Think of Orange Travel eSIM as insurance for your connectivity. When you're handling an urgent video call from a busy train station or uploading crucial files from a hotel room, the value of consistent, high-quality connectivity becomes crystal clear.

Visit travel.orange.com to explore plans for your destination - because the best travel stories come from exploring freely, not hunting for Wi-Fi hotspots.

Price: from €4.99

Where to buy: travel.orange.com

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