HelloRoam offers eSIM data plans for Manila, starting from A$4.07 a day. Your e SIM links up with local 4G/5G networks the moment you land, no roaming fees. Activate by QR code in under two minutes and keep your Telstra, Optus, or Vodafone number for calls. No lock-in contract: one e-sim covers 185+ countries through 212+ carrier networks.
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Manila eSIM Plans for Every Trip Length
Cheap eSIM for Manila, starting from A$4.07. Local 4G/5G data on trusted carrier networks in Manila. Works on all eSIM compatible phones. Travel data for Manila starts from A$4.07 on SMART and Globe 5G networks. Choose from 1 GB to 20 GB plans to match your trip. All eSIM Manila plans activate by QR code at home before you fly from Australia. No physical SIM needed, no lock-in contract, and your Australian number stays active.
Manila eSIM with fast 5G coverage
Manila is the Philippines' political capital with Makati, Bonifacio Global City (BGC), and Quezon City making up Metro Manila. Globe Telecom, Smart/PLDT, and DITO provide 4G LTE coverage across all 17 Metro Manila cities with 5G in central business districts. HelloRoam Philippines eSIM plans start at AUA$4.07 and connect at Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) on landing.
- Plans start at A$4.07 with 5G speeds
- Coverage from SMART and 1+ other operators
- Instant activation in under 2 minutes
- 180-day money-back guarantee
- Manila coverage across major cities
- Network
- 5G
- Plans From
- A$4.07
- Activation
- Under 2 min
- Guarantee
- 180 days
How to Set Up an eSIM in Manila
Follow these steps to set up your eSIM card on iPhone or Android. Works for any e-sim for international travel, no replacement SIM, no store visit.
Set up an eSIM on your iPhone with the HelloRoam app
Set up an eSIM on your Android with the HelloRoam app
- 1
Choose your plan and checkout online
Select a data plan for your destination and complete checkout.
2Scan the QR code
Scan the QR code to install your eSIM straight away.
- 3
Activate in minutes: ready on arrival
Your eSIM installs instantly and activates when you land.
4Manage it all from our app
Track usage, top up data, and manage all your eSIMs in one place.
Trip changed? No worries, we've got you covered!
Plans can change anytime, and that's fine. With HelloRoam, you can request a refund on any unactivated eSIM within 180 days of purchase.
Learn more about our refund policyHelloRoam Manila eSIM vs Telstra, Optus and Vodafone AU roaming
When comparing eSIM vs a travel SIM card for Manila, HelloRoam wins on price. It beats Telstra International Day Pass (A$10/day), Optus Travel Pass (A$5/day), and Vodafone AU daily roaming fees. The cheapest eSIM plan starts from A$4.07, with no activation fee and a refund on unactivated eSIMs within 180 days.
| Feature comparison | HelloRoam | Telstra / Optus roaming add-on | Limited data eSIM |
|---|---|---|---|
| Refund on unactivated eSIMs |  Feature available |  Feature not available | Feature not available |
| 24/7 live chat support | Feature available |  Feature available | Feature available |
| $0 activation fees | Feature available | Feature not available | Feature available |
| Free hotspot and data sharing | Feature available | Feature not available | Feature not available |
| No data overage charges | Feature available | Feature not available | Feature not available |
| Instant QR code delivery | Feature available | Feature not available | Feature available |
| Premium Manila carrier networks | Feature available | Feature not available | Feature not available |
Why Aussie Travellers Pick an e-sim for Manila
24/7 Round-the-clock chat support
Need a hand at 2am before a Bali flight? HelloRoam support is available 24/7. Message us and a real person responds in under 2 minutes. Whether you're troubleshooting mobile data mid-trip or need a top-up on your prepaid data package, help arrives fast.
The best eSIM for Manila travel
Connect to local 4G/5G networks the moment you land in Manila, at a fraction of what Telstra, Optus, or Vodafone AU charge for international roaming. Plans start from A$4.07 with no lock-in contract and no activation fees. It's the most affordable way to get internet abroad without a Telstra Day Pass eating into your travel budget.
Keep your Telstra, Optus, or Vodafone AU number
Keep your Telstra, Optus, or Vodafone AU number active for calls and texts. HelloRoam handles your data through a second eSIM line on any dual SIM compatible phone. Your wireless connectivity for data runs separately, so friends and family back home can still reach your usual number.
212+ partner networks worldwide
HelloRoam connects to 212+ carrier networks across 185+ countries. Fixed data and unlimited data plans available. Your phone switches to the strongest available 4G/5G signal automatically. With cellular coverage this broad, you get reliable internet abroad whether you're in a city centre or off the beaten track.
Usage alerts before you run out
HelloRoam alerts you at 80% usage so you're never caught short mid-trip. Top up instantly from the app without reinstalling your eSIM. Adding more mobile data takes under a minute, so your prepaid data package keeps up with your trip rather than the other way round.
Fast local network speeds
Connect on trusted local 4G/5G networks in Manila. HelloRoam picks the strongest signal for calls, navigation, and streaming. Local network speeds mean you get the same fast mobile data as residents use every day.
Global and regional plans
Planning a multi-country trip? HelloRoam regional eSIMs cover Asia Pacific, Europe, and 185+ destinations in one purchase. eSIMs for Europe span 34+ countries. Japan, Bali, Thailand, and NZ all sorted. One prepaid data package covers your whole itinerary, with no SIM card to swap at each border.
Hotspot and data sharing in Manila
Share your Manila eSIM data with a laptop or tablet using your phone's hotspot. No extra fees, no setup. Works on all eSIM compatible phones. Your wireless connectivity extends to every device in the group, so the whole crew stays online from a single prepaid data package.
Best eSIM for Manila: Prices and Plans
HelloRoam, the best eSIM Manila. Compare plans and save versus Telstra, Optus, and Vodafone roaming.
| Number of days | Price (AUD) |
|---|---|
| 1 day | A$5.44 |
| 3 days | A$15.50 |
| 7 days | A$33.49 |
| 15 days | A$65.24 |
| 22 days | A$88.51 |
| 30 days | A$110.91 |
HelloRoam vs Other eSIM Providers for Manila
For Manila, HelloRoam offers a refund on unactivated eSIMs within 180 days, A$0 activation fees, and 24/7 live chat support. See how HelloRoam compares to Airalo, Holafly, Saily, and other eSIM providers on the features that matter most.
| Feature comparison | HelloRoam | Airalo | Holafly | Nomad | Saily | Ubigi |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Refund on unactivated eSIMs | Feature available | Feature not available | Feature not available | Feature not available | Feature not available | Feature not available |
| 24/7 live chat support | Feature available | Feature available | Feature available | Feature not available | Feature available | Feature available |
| A$0 activation fees | Feature available | Feature not available | Feature available | Feature not available | Feature not available | Feature not available |
| Free hotspot and data sharing | Feature available | Feature not available | Feature not available | Feature not available | Feature not available | Feature not available |
| No data overage charges | Feature available | Feature not available | Feature available | Feature not available | Feature not available | Feature not available |
| Instant QR code delivery | Feature available | Feature available | Feature available | Feature available | Feature available | Feature available |
| Premium Manila carrier networks | Feature available | Feature not available | Feature not available | Feature not available | Feature not available | Feature not available |
| Own branded carrier identity (SPN) | Feature available | Feature not available | Feature not available | Feature not available | Feature not available | Feature available |
What Is an eSIM Card? How e SIM Works for Manila Travel
An eSIM card is a digital SIM built directly into your phone. No plastic chip and no SIM tray to deal with. Scan a QR code to activate your e SIM in under two minutes on any eSIM compatible iPhone or Android. It works as a prepaid mobile data plan for Manila travel with no airport SIM shop queue, no replacement SIM card, and no carrier contract. Follow the step-by-step setup guide to get connected before your flight from Sydney Airport (SYD), Melbourne Airport (MEL), or Brisbane Airport (BNE). guide
Mobile coverage guide for Manila
Metro Manila has strong Globe Telecom 4G and 5G coverage across major commercial and tourist areas. Makati CBD, BGC, Ortigas Center, and Intramuros all have reliable signal. The MRT-3 elevated rail above EDSA has 4G at all above-ground stations.
LRT-1 and LRT-2 also have outdoor coverage at stations. NAIA has 4G at all four terminals with Terminal 3 having the strongest indoor signal. Brief congestion in arrival halls during peak international flights can slow data speeds.
Your HelloRoam eSIM connects to Globe Telecom the moment you land at NAIA.
- HelloRoam connects to SMART 5G, Globe 5G in Manila
- 4G and 5G across Makati, BGC, Ortigas, Intramuros, and all main Metro Manila business districts
- Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) covered throughout all four terminals
- Plans from AUA$4.07 with instant QR activation, no local registration required
eSIM Travel Tips for Manila
Manila is a major Southeast Asia hub for Australians
Manila is the gateway to the Philippines for Australians visiting Boracay, Palawan, Cebu, and other island destinations. Philippine Airlines and Qantas operate services from Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane. Activate your HelloRoam Philippines eSIM at home before departure. One plan covers Manila and all of the Philippines.
Grab is essential for navigating Metro Manila traffic
Metro Manila traffic is notoriously heavy. Grab is the most practical way to book transport and food delivery. It needs a live data connection. Your HelloRoam eSIM keeps Grab running from the moment you land at NAIA. Install the app and add payment before your flight from Australia.
NAIA Terminal 3 has the strongest indoor signal
NAIA has four terminals spread across Pasay and Paranaque. All terminals have 4G coverage. Terminal 3 has the strongest indoor signal. Brief congestion in arrival halls during peak international flight arrivals can slow data speeds. Your eSIM connects as soon as your phone detects the local network.
Older buildings can have reduced indoor signal
Older residential and commercial buildings in Metro Manila can have weaker indoor signal. Modern malls like SM Aura, Greenbelt, and Uptown Mall in BGC have good indoor coverage. Navigate to your destination before entering an older building and download key information while you have strong signal.
The Philippines eSIM covers island destinations
A HelloRoam Philippines eSIM covers the full archipelago. Boracay, Palawan, Cebu, and other popular island destinations all have 4G in their main resort and town areas. Signal can be limited in remote island beaches and jungle areas.
Mobile networks in Manila: Globe Telecom, Smart/PLDT, and DITO
Metro Manila is served by Globe Telecom, Smart/PLDT, and DITO Telecommunity on 4G LTE and 5G networks. Globe Telecom and Smart/PLDT lead in coverage with 5G in Makati CBD, BGC, and Ortigas Center. DITO has expanded rapidly since 2021 adding coverage depth. Your HelloRoam eSIM connects to Globe Telecom for the strongest Metro Manila coverage.
- SMART
- 5G
- Globe
- 5G
HelloRoam eSIM vs Telstra and Optus roaming in Manila
Cost comparison for Australians visiting Manila.
| Category | HelloRoam eSIM Recommended | Philippine SIM card | Telstra, Optus, or Vodafone AU roaming |
|---|---|---|---|
| Typical cost | From A$4.07 total | A$7.10–A$35.49 total | A$7.10–A$21.29/day |
| Details | Plans start at AUA$4.07 for the Philippines. No local registration required. Activate at home and arrive at NAIA already connected. One plan covers Manila and all Philippines island destinations. | Globe Telecom or Smart tourist SIMs at NAIA Airport require registration under the Philippines SIM Registration Act. An eSIM activates instantly from Australia without any in-Philippines registration steps. | Telstra International Day Pass costs AU$10 per day in the Philippines. A ten-day Manila and islands trip adds AU$100 in roaming charges. A HelloRoam Philippines eSIM is far better value for any stay longer than two days. |
Prices approximate as of . Actual savings vary.
Best time to visit Manila from Australia
November to May is the best time to visit Manila and the Philippines. The dry season brings comfortable temperatures of 25 to 32 degrees with low humidity from November to February. The hottest months are March to May at 32 to 36 degrees but conditions remain dry. The rainy season from June to October brings daily heavy rain and the risk of typhoons from June to November with peak risk in September and October. Australian school holidays in December and January coincide with the Philippines' most pleasant dry season period.
NAIA (Ninoy Aquino International Airport) has four terminals spread across Pasay and Parañaque. All terminals have 4G coverage. Terminal 3 has the strongest indoor signal. Your HelloRoam eSIM connects as soon as your phone detects the local network.
MRT-3 runs elevated above EDSA highway from Taft Avenue to North Avenue with 4G at all above-ground stations. LRT-1 and LRT-2 also run elevated with outdoor coverage at stations. The PNR commuter rail has 4G at platforms.
Jeepneys and buses on EDSA and main roads have outdoor coverage throughout city routes. Aussie travellers should activate their eSIM at home so maps and transport apps work from the moment they land.
Top Attractions in Manila
Rizal Monument Luneta Rizal Park
The Rizal Monument in Luneta Park honors national hero Jose Rizal in Manila. Use HelloRoam eSIM to stay connected.
Visit the park on Sunday morning when local families gather for activities.
Manila Bay Roxas Boulevard Skyline At Dusk
Manila Bay at sunset from Roxas Boulevard is one of the city's most famous views. Use HelloRoam eSIM to stay connected.
Watch the sunset from the Baywalk area for the full golden hour over the bay.
Pasig River And Manila Skyline Ortigas Bgc Corridor
The Pasig River flows through Manila with the modern Ortigas and BGC towers rising above. Use HelloRoam eSIM to stay connected.
Take the Pasig River ferry for a unique view of the city's two sides.
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Reviews
What Our Customers Say
Real reviews from Trustpilot and the App Store, quoted as written.
40k+ travellers have used HelloRoam
Cat
On a trip to Europe, my hotel Wi-Fi was so slow and outside Wi-Fi was unreliable. I couldn’t take it anymore so I got helloroam for a few days. It was tricky to set up correctly because of the primary settings (with my original number). But I reached out to their customer service via WhatsApp. Super responsive and helpful, with specific and clear steps to troubleshoot. Appreciate having 4G roaming instead of being stuck with in and out Wi-Fi during my trip!!
Rated 5 out of 5 by this reviewer
Very good experience! The eSIM was easy to set up and worked great in London. It was much cheaper than it would have been to use my own operator there.
Ilona
Rated 5 out of 5 by this reviewer
metulker
Hard to set up but help was good
Rated 5 out of 5 by this reviewer
Reuben
Really happy with HelloRoam. Everything worked as expected, from messaging and Google Maps through to streaming without any issues. Easy to use, reliable and affordable. Would happily use them again when travelling.
Rated 5 out of 5 by this reviewer
Angeline
Reliable connection. Reasonable pricing.
Rated 4 out of 5 by this reviewer
Updated
FAQs About eSIM in Manila
What does an eSIM for Manila cost for Australians visiting the Philippines?
HelloRoam offers e SIM Manila plans starting from A$4.07 on SMART and Globe 5G networks. Activate by scanning a QR code before you leave Australia. Data is live when you land. No physical SIM card required and no roaming charges from Telstra or Optus.
Does a Manila e-sim plan cover the whole Philippines including Cebu and Palawan?
An e-sim Manila plan on HelloRoam runs on SMART and Globe 5G networks from A$4.07. Scan the QR code at home and arrive connected. Plans cover multiple data sizes from 1 GB to 20 GB. No contract required and a 180-day refund guarantee on unactivated eSIMs covers every order.
Does a HelloRoam Manila eSIM cover Palawan, Cebu, and island hopping across the Philippines?
A HelloRoam e SIM Manila plan covers the Philippines on SMART and Globe 5G networks from A$4.07. Signal reaches Cebu, Boracay, and El Nido in Palawan. Very remote island areas may be limited. The same plan covers your Manila layover and the island-hopping leg without a SIM swap.
The Philippines is one of Australia's nearest neighbours — does a HelloRoam eSIM work for short breaks?
A HelloRoam eSIM Manila plan is a practical pick for Australian short breaks of three to seven days. Plans start from A$4.07 on SMART and Globe 5G networks. Scan the QR at home, land at Ninoy Aquino connected, and your Australian Telstra or Optus number stays active on dual SIM the whole time.
What is the best eSIM for Manila for Australians?
HelloRoam Philippines eSIM is a good choice for Australians visiting Manila. Plans connect on Globe Telecom and Smart/PLDT from AUA$4.07 with 4G and 5G data. No local registration required. Activate at home before your flight and arrive at NAIA already connected.
Does eSIM work at NAIA Airport?
Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) has 4G coverage at all four terminals. Terminal 3 has the strongest indoor signal. Your HelloRoam eSIM connects to Globe Telecom as soon as you enable data after landing. The airport has full 4G LTE / 5G coverage across all terminals. Activate your data in Settings when you land and HelloRoam connects automatically to Globe Telecom / Smart/PLDT. No queue, no SIM counter: you are online within seconds of landing.
Is there 5G in Manila?
5G is available in Makati CBD, Bonifacio Global City (BGC), Ortigas Center, and parts of Quezon City. Globe Telecom and Smart/PLDT both operate 5G in these business districts. 4G LTE covers the broader Metro Manila area. HelloRoam eSIM for Manila connects to Globe Telecom / Smart/PLDT with 4G LTE / 5G coverage across major tourist and urban areas. Plans start from A$4.07. Activate by scanning a QR code before departure. No physical SIM card or airport queue needed.
Does eSIM work in BGC (Bonifacio Global City)?
BGC has excellent 5G and 4G coverage with strong indoor penetration in modern malls like SM Aura and Uptown Mall. This is one of the best-connected areas in Manila. HelloRoam eSIM for Manila connects to Globe Telecom / Smart/PLDT with 4G LTE / 5G coverage across major tourist and urban areas. Plans start from A$4.07. Activate by scanning a QR code before departure. No physical SIM card or airport queue needed.
Can I use Grab in Manila?
Grab is the dominant rideshare and food delivery app in the Philippines. It needs a live data connection. Your HelloRoam eSIM keeps Grab running from the moment you land at NAIA. HelloRoam eSIM for Manila connects to Globe Telecom / Smart/PLDT with 4G LTE / 5G coverage across major tourist and urban areas. Plans start from A$4.07. Activate by scanning a QR code before departure. No physical SIM card or airport queue needed.
Does eSIM work on the MRT and LRT?
The MRT-3 runs elevated above EDSA with 4G at all above-ground stations. LRT-1 and LRT-2 also have outdoor 4G at stations. Signal is generally functional throughout the metro and light rail network. HelloRoam eSIM for Manila connects to Globe Telecom / Smart/PLDT with 4G LTE / 5G coverage across major tourist and urban areas. Plans start from A$4.07. Activate by scanning a QR code before departure. No physical SIM card or airport queue needed.
Does eSIM work in Intramuros?
Intramuros, the historic walled city, and Rizal Park have 4G coverage throughout. The main tourist sites including Fort Santiago and the Manila Cathedral are well covered. HelloRoam eSIM for Manila connects to Globe Telecom / Smart/PLDT with 4G LTE / 5G coverage across major tourist and urban areas. Plans start from A$4.07. Activate by scanning a QR code before departure. No physical SIM card or airport queue needed.
Does the Philippines eSIM cover Boracay and Palawan?
Yes. A HelloRoam Philippines eSIM covers all of the Philippines. Boracay, Palawan, Cebu, and other island destinations have 4G in their main resort and town areas. HelloRoam eSIM for Manila connects to Globe Telecom / Smart/PLDT with 4G LTE / 5G coverage across major tourist and urban areas. Plans start from A$4.07. Activate by scanning a QR code before departure. No physical SIM card or airport queue needed.
How much data do I need for two weeks in Manila?
Two weeks in Manila using Grab, maps, and social media typically uses 4 to 8 GB. Manila is a large congested city where navigation apps are data-heavy. A 5 GB plan suits most two-week visits. For a week of typical travel (Google Maps navigation, WhatsApp messages, and social media) you need 3 to 5 GB. If you stream video or make video calls daily, choose a 8 to 10 GB plan. The HelloRoam app shows your remaining data balance in real time.
Can I use hotspot tethering in Manila with HelloRoam?
Yes, HelloRoam Philippines eSIM plans support mobile hotspot. Share your 4G or 5G connection with a travel companion or connect a laptop from your Manila hotel. You can share your 4G LTE / 5G connection with a travel companion, laptop, or tablet at no extra cost. Hotspot speeds are typically sufficient for email, navigation, and video calls. Enable it under Settings, Personal Hotspot on your device.
What is the emergency number in the Philippines?
The Philippines emergency number is 911 for all services. Emergency calls work on any active eSIM in the Philippines. Save these numbers before you leave for Manila. Emergency calls work on any mobile network without an active data plan. The international emergency number 112 also works in many countries worldwide.
