19 Apr 2025
How to Use eSIM When Traveling Abroad
To use an eSIM abroad, you first need to confirm your device is compatible, then purchase a plan from an online provider or local carrier. Before your trip, you will install the eSIM using a QR code or an app, and once you arrive, you can simply switch your phone's settings to use the travel plan.
“Extra Security Layer.
No one can swipe your physical SIM for shady OTP scams. eSIMs lock down your number tighter, giving peace of mind in crowded places.
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Before your trip
- Check device compatibility. Use your phone's settings to confirm it supports eSIMs. Most newer devices (iPhone XSor later,Google Pixel 3or later,Samsung Galaxy S20or later) are compatible.
- On iPhone: Go to
Settings > General > Aboutand look for "eSIM" or "Digital SIM". - On Android: Go to
Settings > Connections > SIM card managerand look for "Add Mobile Plan".
- On iPhone: Go to
- Research eSIM plans. Compare plans from online eSIM marketplaces, which generally offer more competitive rates than your home carrier's roaming plans. Look for options based on your destination(s), data needs, and trip duration.
- Online eSIM providers: Companies like Airalo, Holafly, Nomad, and Ubigi offer prepaid data plans for hundreds of countries and regions.
- Regional plans: For multi-country trips, consider a regional plan (e.g., Europe) to stay connected across borders without needing multiple eSIMs.
- Local carriers: If staying in one country for an extended time, you can also buy a local carrier's eSIM plan. This may require visiting a store or purchasing from their website.
- Purchase your plan. Buy the plan that best suits your needs online and pay with a credit card. You will receive an email containing a QR code and installation instructions.
- Install the eSIM profile. Using a Wi-Fi connection, you can install the eSIM before you leave home.
- On iPhone: Go to
Settings > Cellular > Add Cellular Planand scan the QR code. - On Android: Go to
Settings > Network & internet > Mobile network > Addand scan the QR code.
- On iPhone: Go to
While traveling abroad
- Arrive at your destination. Once you land, turn off your phone's airplane mode. You will need to switch from your primary SIM to your new travel eSIM.
- Enable the travel eSIM. Go to your phone's cellular settings and turn on your new eSIM plan. Give it a clear label, like "Travel-Europe" or "Vacation-Japan," for easier identification.
- Set the correct data line. Make sure your phone uses the travel eSIM for cellular data to avoid costly roaming charges from your primary number. You can often keep your home SIM active for incoming calls and texts.
- Enable data roaming for your eSIM. For the new eSIM to connect to a partner network abroad, you must enable data roaming for that specific line. Crucially, double-check that data roaming for your home SIM is disabled.
- Use and top up. Your phone will automatically connect to the local network covered by your eSIM plan. If you run out of data, you can typically buy a top-up directly through the eSIM provider's app.
When you return home
Once your trip is over, you can go back into your phone's settings and switch your active data plan back to your primary SIM. You can either temporarily disable the travel eSIM or remove it entirely.
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