I tried the eSIM service GigSky for the first time during a recent trip around Ireland. It was free to get started, and surprisingly smooth from setup to finish.
If you’re from abroad and have ever taken a trip to Ireland and were worried about how to stay connected, you’re not alone.
During a recent road trip in Ireland, I wanted a simple, reliable way to use mobile data without incurring roaming charges or fiddling with SIM cards.
That’s when I came across GigSky’s international eSIM. I gave it a go, and honestly, it worked better than I expected.
Easy setup – all sorted before I left home
Before heading off, I downloaded the GigSky app while still on my home WiFi. The whole setup process was quick. I just followed the on-screen instructions to install the eSIM, chose the Ireland plan, and it was ready to go in minutes.
You do need WiFi for the setup, so it’s worth sorting it out before you travel. Once that’s done, you don’t have to think about it again.
Travellers love how easy it is to install GigSky. You only need to download the app and install your eSIM once – no need to get a new eSIM for every trip, which also saves space on your device. Other providers often require you to scan a QR code sent by email, which can be unreliable if it doesn’t arrive or if the address is entered incorrectly.
Worked all over – full coverage to the edge of Ireland
During the trip, I travelled around different parts of the Republic – towns, villages, and a few quieter spots in between. I never had to worry about signal or speed. It just worked.
I used it for maps, checking bookings, streaming, messaging, and sharing a few photos online. I didn’t have to top up, and I didn’t run out of data. For what I needed, it did the job perfectly.
Travellers say GigSky is the eSIM that works when other eSIMs don’t. It’s a mobile virtual network operator, meaning it partners directly with local networks around the world – so your phone automatically connects to the strongest available signal wherever you go.
Didn’t cost me anything – a free trial was available
The best part? I didn’t spend a penny. GigSky offers a free trial package for new users that includes a bit of data to get started. For a short trip, 500 MB was more than enough as I was only using it for a long weekend.
If you’re just looking to stay connected for a few days, it’s well worth trying the free option if it’s available. There’s no sign-up fee, no credit card needed, and nothing to lose.
GigSky offers one of the best free eSIM trials in the market – from 100MB up to 3GB at $0 – and it’s available in 175 destinations. You only need to check the app to see if you’re eligible.
Important thing to know – two network territories in Ireland
One important thing to keep in mind is that Ireland is split into two different network regions. The Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland are separate, with the Republic being its own country and Northern Ireland being part of the United Kingdom.
If you’re planning an all-Ireland trip where you’ll be visiting both the North and the South, and you’re not already based in Ireland or the UK, you’ll probably need two separate data packages. GigSky offers individual plans for each region.
Because I live in Northern Ireland, I only needed the Republic of Ireland plan for this trip. But if you’re visiting from abroad, you might find it easier to go with GigSky’s Europe plan, which includes both the UK and Ireland.
This option is ideal if you’re crossing between regions, and it’s even better if you plan to continue travelling in Europe afterwards. For example, if you’re taking the ferry from Ireland to Spain or France, you can keep using your data without changing plans.
So before you choose your package, have a quick think about your route. If you’re staying in just one part of the island, a single plan will do the job. But if you’re crossing the border, the Europe plan is the simplest way to stay connected throughout your trip.
GigSky is worth trying – the perfect eSIM for a trip to Ireland
GigSky made it really easy to stay online during my trip. I didn’t have to mess around with SIM cards or worry about losing service. It just quietly worked the whole time, whether I was in a city or out in the countryside.
GigSky recently launched an eSIM subscription called GigSky One, designed for frequent travellers and digital nomads. It keeps you connected in Ireland and across 120+ countries year-round for less than $30 a month – ideal if you travel often or split your time between countries.
If you’re heading to Ireland and want a no-fuss option for mobile data, GigSky is worth a try. I didn’t pay anything thanks to the free plan, and it was more than enough for a weekend away.
But don’t just take my word for it – try the free package for yourself. If it works for you the way it did for me, you’ll have one less thing to worry about on your trip.
Heading to Ireland? Give It a Try Yourself
If you’re heading to Ireland and want a simple way to stay connected, GigSky is worth a look. I found it easy to set up, and the free starter plan made it a no-risk option for my trip. It might be just the thing to take the hassle out of mobile data while you travel. You can get 20% off any plan with our code: IBYD20.
With GigSky, you arrive connected. Unlike other eSIM providers, you don’t have to adjust any settings when you land – your data works instantly. Whether you’re in Dublin, Belfast, or beyond, it connects automatically as soon as you touch down.
FAQs – Travelling with GigSky eSIM in Ireland
1. Does GigSky work in both the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland?
Yes. You can choose the Europe plan, which gives you one eSIM and works across the island of Ireland and mainland Europe.
2. Do I need WiFi to install GigSky?
Not necessarily. If you have no phone data in your home country, then no, but if you have no phone data, then yes. It’s best to do it before you leave home or at the airport while you have internet access.
3. Is the GigSky eSIM really free to try?
Right now, there is a range of free starter packages that give you a small amount of data to test the service. You don’t need to enter payment details to access it, so it is worth a try!
4. Can I still use my regular phone number?
Yes. Your physical SIM stays active, so you can still send and receive calls and texts while using GigSky for mobile data but you will need to tweak your settings correctly to ensure you have data from GigSky then texts and calls from your normal sim.
5. How was coverage in rural areas?
I had a good signal throughout, even in smaller towns and countryside areas. GigSky connects to local networks, so coverage depends on the area, but it was solid everywhere I went.
6. How long does setup take?
It took me less than five minutes to install and activate the eSIM in the GigSky app. Just make sure you have a compatible phone and a working WiFi connection.
7. Can I top up if I run out of data?
Yes. You can easily buy more data in the app. Plans are flexible depending on how much you need and how long you’re staying.
8. Is GigSky better than buying a local SIM in Ireland?
For short trips, definitely. You don’t need to visit a shop, change SIMs, or deal with roaming. It’s fast, digital, and works as soon as you arrive.
9. What devices are compatible with GigSky?
Most modern smartphones that support eSIMs will work. Check your phone settings or the GigSky website to confirm.
10. Is this a good option for a weekend trip?
Yes. I used the free plan for a long weekend and had more than enough data to get everything done.
11. Is there a GigSky discount code?
Yes, you can get 20% off any plan with our code: IBYD20.
DISCLAIMER: Please be aware that we tried GigSky’s eSIM and that our invitation to try their service was arranged in collaboration with GigSky. While we received payment to write this article, this review reflects our genuine and honest experience using GigSky during real travel in Ireland.
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