HelloRoam offers prepaid eSIM data plans for Manila from £2.14 a day. Your e SIM connects to local 4G/5G networks the moment you land. Activate by QR code in under two minutes, with no shop visit required. Keep your EE, Vodafone, or Three number live on dual SIM while your e-sim handles data abroad.
- Mobile networks
212+- 5G support
5G- Setup
under two minutes
Last updated
Your Manila eSIM with local network coverage
Cheap eSIM for Manila, starting from £2.14. Local 4G/5G data on top carrier networks in Manila. Works on all eSIM compatible phones. Travelling to the Philippines typically involves a long-haul connection, and arriving without mobile data sorted is a common mistake British travellers make. An eSIM in Manila from HelloRoam is activated at home before you board at Heathrow. Plans start from £2.14 on SMART and Globe 5G and run across Metro Manila, BGC, Makati, and the islands beyond. Your QR code is delivered by email and scans in seconds. No physical card, no contract, no fuss. Choosing an e SIM Manila from HelloRoam means instant QR delivery, no contract, and local network speeds from the moment you land.
Manila eSIM with fast 5G coverage
Manila is the Philippines' capital and main gateway for British travellers exploring the islands. Flights from London typically connect via Dubai, Singapore, or Hong Kong to Ninoy Aquino International Airport. Globe Telecom, Smart Communications, and DITO Telecommunity provide 4G LTE across the city. A HelloRoam Philippines eSIM connects you on arrival. Plans start at £2.14.
- Plans start at £2.14 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
- £2.14
- Activation
- Under 2 min
- Guarantee
- 180 days
How to Set Up an eSIM in Manila
Follow these steps to get your eSIM sorted on iPhone or Android before your holiday. Works for any eSIM for international travel, no replacement SIM, no shop visit.
Set up an eSIM on your iPhone for travel from the UK
Set up an eSIM on your Android for travel from the UK
- 1
Choose your plan and checkout online
Choose a data plan for your destination and complete your purchase in GBP.
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 mobile app
Track usage, top up data, and manage all your eSIMs in one place.
Holiday changed? Not to worry, your money is safe.
Plans change. With HelloRoam, you can request a full refund on any unused eSIM plan within 180 days of purchase. No questions asked if the eSIM has not been activated.
Learn more about our refund policyHelloRoam Manila eSIM vs EE, Vodafone and Three roaming
When comparing eSIM vs a travel SIM card for Manila, HelloRoam wins on price. EE charges £6/day on their Roam Abroad Pass, Vodafone charges £6.85/day on Xtra roaming, and Three Go Roam applies fair-use data caps. Skip the airport SIM kiosk and get the cheapest eSIM deal from £2.14 with instant QR activation.
| Feature comparison | HelloRoam | UK carrier roaming add-on | Budget eSIM |
|---|---|---|---|
| 180-day refund policy |  Feature available |  Feature not available | Feature not available |
| Round-the-clock live chat | Feature available |  Feature available | Feature available |
| £0 activation fees | Feature available | Feature not available | Feature available |
| Automatic data-usage alerts | 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 UK Travellers Pick HelloRoam e-sim for Manila
Round-the-clock live chat support
HelloRoam support is available 24/7 via live chat, WhatsApp, and email. A real person responds in under five minutes, whether you are setting up before a Heathrow flight or troubleshooting on holiday. That kind of round-the-clock access to mobile data help is hard to find from any other travel eSIM provider.
Best eSIM for Manila
Connect to local 4G/5G networks on local carriers the moment you land in Manila. Buy your plan, scan the QR code, and get online without paying EE, Vodafone, or Three roaming fees. A prepaid data package for your destination costs a fraction of standard carrier daily charges.
Dual SIM ready
Keep your UK mobile number active for calls and texts on your main SIM. HelloRoam runs travel data on a second eSIM line on any dual SIM compatible phone. No need to choose between your EE or Vodafone line and your holiday data. Your wireless connectivity abroad stays separate from your home plan, so there are no bill surprises when you return.
212+ carrier networks including Manila
HelloRoam eSIM connects to 212+ carrier networks across 185+ countries. Your phone picks the strongest 4G/5G signal in Manila with no manual carrier selection needed. That breadth of network access means consistent cellular coverage whether you are in a city centre or a quieter coastal area.
Data alerts before you run out
HelloRoam sends an alert when you reach 80% of your data allowance. Top up from your account dashboard in seconds. A pay as you go eSIM with no contracts and no surprise bills on holiday. Managing your internet abroad this way keeps costs clear and predictable from start to finish.
Local network speeds in Manila
HelloRoam eSIM connects to local 4G/5G networks in Manila at local data prices. You get fast speeds for navigation, video calls, and streaming without paying EE or Vodafone daily roaming rates. Local network speeds through a travel eSIM are the same as what residents get, giving you a reliable connection throughout your trip.
Global and regional plans
Visiting more than one country? HelloRoam regional eSIMs cover the EU, Asia, the Americas, and 185+ destinations in a single purchase. Unlimited data plans work for longer holidays. One QR code, no border hassle. A single regional plan gives you mobile data and wireless connectivity across multiple countries without ever swapping a physical SIM card.
Hotspot and data sharing in Manila
Share your Manila eSIM data with a laptop or tablet using your phone's mobile hotspot. No extra charges and no separate setup needed. Works on all eSIM compatible phones with data sharing enabled. It is a practical way to keep a travel companion or work device running on the same prepaid data package at no added cost.
eSIM Prices for Manila
HelloRoam, the best eSIM Manila. Compare plans from 1 to 30 days and pick the right data for your trip.
| Number of days | Price |
|---|---|
| 1 day | £2.86 |
| 3 days | £8.14 |
| 7 days | £17.59 |
| 15 days | £34.27 |
| 22 days | £46.50 |
| 30 days | £58.26 |
HelloRoam vs Other eSIM Providers for Manila
HelloRoam eSIM reviews from UK travellers highlight the 180-day refund policy, no activation fees, and round-the-clock live support. See how HelloRoam compares to Airalo, Holafly, Saily, and other eSIM providers for your Manila holiday.
| Feature comparison | HelloRoam | Airalo | Holafly | Nomad | Saily | Ubigi |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 180-day refund policy | 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 |
| £0 activation fees | Feature available | Feature not available | Feature available | Feature not available | Feature not available | Feature not available |
| Automatic data-usage alerts | 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 e SIM? How eSIM Works in Manila
An eSIM card is a digital SIM built into your phone. There is no plastic chip and no SIM tray to open. 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 international data plan for Manila travel with no airport SIM shop queue, no replacement SIM card, and no carrier contract. Mobile data through an eSIM connects to local in-country networks, giving you the same wireless connectivity as a resident rather than a roaming tourist. Follow the step-by-step setup guide to get connected before your flight from Heathrow, Gatwick, or any UK airport. guide
Manila eSIM coverage guide for UK travellers
Manila has reliable 4G LTE across Makati, BGC, Intramuros, Mall of Asia, MRT stations, and Ninoy Aquino Airport. Your HelloRoam eSIM connects to Globe Telecom or Smart Communications on arrival.
- HelloRoam connects to SMART 5G, Globe 5G in Manila
- 4G LTE across Makati, BGC, Intramuros, and all main areas
- Ninoy Aquino Airport fully covered
- Plans from £2.14 cover all of the Philippines
eSIM Travel Tips for Manila
Install your eSIM before your connecting flight to Manila
Flights from London to Manila connect via Dubai, Singapore, or Hong Kong. Install your HelloRoam Philippines eSIM at home before departure. Connect at MNL on arrival.
Use Grab from Manila Airport
Ninoy Aquino Airport has a designated Grab pickup area outside arrivals. Grab is cheaper and more reliable than flagging a taxi. Your HelloRoam eSIM keeps the app live from the moment you land.
Register a local e-wallet for everyday payments
GCash and Maya are the dominant mobile payment apps in the Philippines. British cards work at major hotels but local markets and smaller restaurants prefer cash or e-wallets. Set up GCash with a foreign card before or shortly after arriving.
Keep your UK SIM for banking
British banks send SMS verification codes for overseas transactions. Keep your UK SIM active alongside your HelloRoam eSIM.
Data from £2.14 covers all of the Philippines
A HelloRoam Philippines eSIM covers Manila, Cebu, Palawan, Boracay, and the whole archipelago. Plans start from £2.14.
Manila mobile network coverage for British travellers
Manila has strong 4G LTE coverage across its metropolitan area. Globe Telecom and Smart Communications are the main operators, with DITO Telecommunity expanding. Ninoy Aquino International Airport (MNL) has full 4G coverage across all terminals. Makati CBD, Bonifacio Global City (BGC), Intramuros, Ermita, Mall of Asia, Ortigas, and all main business and tourist areas have reliable outdoor signal. The LRT, MRT, and PNR rail networks have 4G at main stations.
- SMART
- 5G
- Globe
- 5G
Manila eSIM vs local SIM vs UK carrier roaming
The Philippines is outside any UK roaming zone. UK carriers charge daily international fees. A HelloRoam Philippines eSIM gives a clear prepaid allowance.
| Category | HelloRoam eSIM Recommended | Philippine SIM card | UK carrier roaming |
|---|---|---|---|
| Typical cost | From £2.14 total | £3.73–£18.64 total | £3.73–£11.19/day |
| Details | From £2.14. Install at home, connect at MNL on arrival. No registration needed. | Philippine SIM cards require passport registration under the SIM Registration Act. Available at MNL but require time to set up. | UK carriers charge daily fees for the Philippines. A two-week trip with daily roaming adds significantly to your bill. |
Prices approximate as of . Actual savings vary.
Best time to visit Manila from the UK
November through April is the best time for British visitors. The dry season brings clear skies and temperatures of 26C to 32C. December to February is the coolest and most pleasant period. May through October is the wet season, with typhoon risk particularly from June through November. Temperatures are high year-round at 28C to 36C.
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 motorway 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. British travellers should confirm their eSIM is active before the flight so transport apps work on landing.
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.
Showing slide 1 of 3
Reviews
HelloRoam eSIM Reviews from UK Travellers
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
Last updated
Common Questions About Manila eSIM
What does an eSIM in Manila cost for British visitors to the Philippines?
An eSIM Manila plan from HelloRoam starts from £2.14 on SMART and Globe 5G networks. Plans cover Metro Manila and the wider Philippines with data across BGC, Makati, and the islands. HelloRoam activates via QR before your long-haul Heathrow flight and you land at NAIA already connected.
Do eSIMs Manila plans work in Palawan, Boracay, and Cebu?
An eSIM Manila plan from HelloRoam runs on the Philippine national network, covering Palawan, Boracay, Cebu, and Bohol on the same plan. Resort towns and airports maintain strong coverage throughout. HelloRoam gives you one plan for the whole archipelago with no extra charges for island-hopping.
Does a HelloRoam Manila eSIM cover Makati, BGC, and the Ninoy Aquino Airport area?
A HelloRoam Philippines plan runs on SMART and Globe 5G across Metro Manila, including the Makati CBD, Bonifacio Global City, Quezon City, and the Ninoy Aquino International Airport corridors. Plans start from £2.14 with instant QR delivery and a 180-day refund guarantee for unactivated eSIMs.
Can I use a HelloRoam Manila eSIM for island hopping to El Nido and Siargao?
A HelloRoam Philippines plan covers SMART and Globe 5G across the archipelago. Coverage in El Nido, Siargao, and Boracay extends to main town areas. Remote island interiors and smaller islets may have limited signal. Plans start from £2.14 with a 180-day refund guarantee for unactivated eSIMs.
Does eSIM work in Manila?
A HelloRoam Philippines eSIM works in Manila on Globe Telecom and Smart Communications 4G LTE networks. Coverage is reliable across Makati, BGC, Intramuros, and Ninoy Aquino Airport. HelloRoam eSIM for Manila connects to Globe Telecom / Smart Communications with 4G LTE coverage across major tourist and urban areas. Plans start from £2.14. Activate by scanning a QR code before departure. No physical SIM card or airport queue needed.
Does my eSIM work at Manila Airport?
Yes. Ninoy Aquino International Airport (MNL) has full 4G LTE coverage across all terminals. Your HelloRoam eSIM connects on arrival. The airport has full 4G LTE coverage across all terminals. Activate your data in Settings when you land and HelloRoam connects automatically to Globe Telecom / Smart Communications. No queue, no SIM counter: you are online within seconds of landing.
Is the Philippines outside the UK's roaming zone?
Yes. The Philippines has no roaming agreement with UK carriers. A HelloRoam eSIM avoids daily UK carrier charges. HelloRoam eSIM for Manila connects to Globe Telecom / Smart Communications with 4G LTE coverage across major tourist and urban areas. Plans start from £2.14. Activate by scanning a QR code before departure. No physical SIM card or airport queue needed.
Is there signal at Intramuros?
Yes. Intramuros, Fort Santiago, and the surrounding historic walled city area have solid outdoor 4G coverage. Outdoor areas and main tourist zones have strong 4G LTE signal from Globe Telecom / Smart Communications. Large indoor venues or underground spaces may have slightly weaker coverage. HelloRoam eSIM automatically connects to the strongest available signal.
Is there signal in Makati?
Yes. Makati CBD, Ayala Avenue, Greenbelt, and the Makati commercial district have strong outdoor 4G coverage. Outdoor areas and main tourist zones have strong 4G LTE signal from Globe Telecom / Smart Communications. Large indoor venues or underground spaces may have slightly weaker coverage. HelloRoam eSIM automatically connects to the strongest available signal.
Is there signal in BGC?
Yes. Bonifacio Global City, High Street, and the surrounding BGC district have strong outdoor 4G coverage. Outdoor areas and main tourist zones have strong 4G LTE signal from Globe Telecom / Smart Communications. Large indoor venues or underground spaces may have slightly weaker coverage. HelloRoam eSIM automatically connects to the strongest available signal.
Does the eSIM cover the rest of the Philippines?
Yes. A HelloRoam Philippines eSIM covers the whole archipelago including Cebu, Palawan, Boracay, Siargao, Davao, and Bohol where Globe and Smart operate. HelloRoam eSIM for Manila connects to Globe Telecom / Smart Communications with 4G LTE coverage across major tourist and urban areas. Plans start from £2.14. Activate by scanning a QR code before departure. No physical SIM card or airport queue needed.
What currency does the Philippines use?
The Philippines uses the Philippine peso (PHP). Check your bank for the current GBP to PHP exchange rate. Cards are accepted in major Manila hotels and malls. HelloRoam eSIM for Manila connects to Globe Telecom / Smart Communications with 4G LTE coverage across major tourist and urban areas. Plans start from £2.14. Activate by scanning a QR code before departure. No physical SIM card or airport queue needed.
Can I use Grab in Manila?
Yes. Grab is the dominant ride-hailing app in Manila. With your HelloRoam eSIM active from MNL, you can book from arrivals. HelloRoam eSIM for Manila connects to Globe Telecom / Smart Communications with 4G LTE coverage across major tourist and urban areas. Plans start from £2.14. Activate by scanning a QR code before departure. No physical SIM card or airport queue needed.
Is there signal at Mall of Asia?
Yes. SM Mall of Asia and the surrounding Manila Bay reclamation area have strong outdoor 4G coverage. Outdoor areas and main tourist zones have strong 4G LTE signal from Globe Telecom / Smart Communications. Large indoor venues or underground spaces may have slightly weaker coverage. HelloRoam eSIM automatically connects to the strongest available signal.
Does eSIM work on Manila's MRT?
Yes. MRT-3 stations along EDSA and LRT stations have 4G at platforms. Coverage inside trains varies. HelloRoam eSIM for Manila connects to Globe Telecom / Smart Communications with 4G LTE coverage across major tourist and urban areas. Plans start from £2.14. Activate by scanning a QR code before departure. No physical SIM card or airport queue needed.
