Airalo or Yesim: our take
The table compares each provider's plan for a typical trip. The ranking uses the same formula as the rest of the site: price first, then network, hotspot use and range of options.
Set up your eSIM in 4 steps
- Make sure your phone is eSIM-compatible and unlocked.
- Buy the plan, then scan the QR code you receive (or install through the provider's app), on Wi-Fi.
- When you arrive, turn on the eSIM line for data, and turn on roaming for that line only.
- Keep your main SIM for calls and texts, with data roaming turned off.
Your phone must be eSIM-compatible and unlocked.
At a glance
Airalo vs Yesim: which eSIM for the Gambia?
The bar shows price per GB: shorter is cheaper. Click a column header to sort.
All checked plans (14)
| Airalo | 1 GB | 3 | $9.50 | $9.50 |
| Airalo | 3 GB | 3 | $25.00 | $8.33 |
| Airalo | 3 GB | 7 | $26.00 | $8.67 |
| Airalo | 5 GB | 7 | $35.00 | $7.00 |
| Airalo | 5 GB | 15 | $39.00 | $7.80 |
| Airalo | 5 GB | 30 | $44.00 | $8.80 |
| Saily | 1 GB | 7 | $9.99 | $9.99 |
| Saily | 3 GB | 30 | $27.99 | $9.33 |
| Saily | 5 GB | 30 | $44.99 | $9.00 |
| Yesim | 1 GB | 30 | $20.40 | $20.40 |
| Yesim | 3 GB | 30 | $56.40 | $18.80 |
| Yesim | 5 GB | 30 | $73.20 | $14.64 |
| Yesim | 10 GB | 30 | $99.60 | $9.96 |
| Yesim | Unlimited | 1 | $21.60 | — |
Full ranking
- 1
8.1out of 10
- 2
5.4out of 10
How the score is calculated
Score out of 10 = 60% price (relative to the cheapest in the table) + 15% network (5G listed, network named) + 10% hotspot use + 15% range of options (unlimited available, number of durations).
Frequently asked questions
Airalo or Yesim: which should I pick in the Gambia?
It depends on how long you're staying and how much data you need. The table compares both providers' plans for a typical trip; sort it by what matters to you.
What's the cheapest eSIM for the Gambia?
Among the providers we compare, the cheapest plan for a typical trip is from Airalo, at $35.00. Prices are checked on the official websites and dated at the top of the page.
Is my phone eSIM-compatible?
Most iPhones from the XS onward, recent Samsung Galaxy phones and Google Pixels from the Pixel 3 onward are compatible. The phone also has to be unlocked. On iPhone: Settings > General > About, look for the "EID" line.
When should I install my eSIM?
Install it before you leave, on Wi-Fi, but turn on the data line when you arrive. Most plans only start at the first connection to the local network.
Do I keep my regular phone number?
Yes. Your main SIM can stay active for calls and texts; the travel eSIM only handles data. Remember to turn off data roaming on your main line.