eSIM for International Travel: Your Complete Guide

Stay connected in 200+ countries without expensive roaming fees. Learn how to choose, set up, and use a travel eSIM for your next international trip — everything you need in one comprehensive guide.

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What Is an eSIM?

An eSIM (embedded SIM) is a small chip built directly into your smartphone, tablet, or smartwatch that serves the same function as a traditional SIM card. Instead of inserting a physical plastic card into your device, an eSIM allows you to download a carrier profile digitally. This means you can activate a mobile data plan with just a few taps on your screen.

The technology behind eSIM was standardized by the GSMA (Global System for Mobile Communications Association) and has been widely adopted since 2018. Unlike a removable nano-SIM card, the eSIM chip is soldered onto your device's motherboard during manufacturing. You cannot remove it, but you can reprogram it with different carrier profiles as needed.

For international travelers, this is a transformative technology. Traditionally, staying connected abroad meant either paying steep roaming fees to your home carrier, hunting for a local SIM card at the airport, or relying entirely on spotty hotel Wi-Fi. With an eSIM for international travel, you simply purchase a data plan online before you leave, scan a QR code, and your phone is ready to connect the moment you land.

The eSIM stores all the same information as a physical SIM — your subscriber identity, authentication keys, and network credentials — but in a rewritable digital format. You can store multiple eSIM profiles on a single device and switch between them without physically swapping cards. This makes it the ideal solution for frequent travelers who visit multiple countries throughout the year.

Why Use an eSIM for International Travel?

Using an eSIM for international travel offers significant advantages over traditional connectivity methods. Here are the key reasons why millions of travelers are making the switch:

No Roaming Charges

Traditional international roaming can cost $10–20 per day with most carriers. Travel eSIM plans use local networks through partnerships, giving you data at a fraction of the cost. A week of data in Europe might cost just $5–15 with an eSIM versus $70–140 with carrier roaming.

Instant Activation

No waiting in line at airport kiosks or searching for mobile shops in an unfamiliar city. Purchase your eSIM plan from home, install it before your flight, and activate it when you land. The entire process takes less than five minutes.

Keep Your Home Number

With dual SIM capability, you can keep your primary SIM active for calls and texts from friends and family while using the travel eSIM exclusively for data. You never miss an important message and you avoid expensive data roaming charges at the same time.

Multi-Country Coverage

Planning a trip through multiple countries? Regional eSIM plans cover entire continents with a single plan. Travel through France, Germany, Italy, and Spain on one European eSIM without buying separate plans for each country.

No Physical Card to Lose

Travelers often lose those tiny nano-SIM cards or damage SIM trays with the ejector tool. An eSIM is embedded in your device, so there is nothing to drop, lose, or break. Your connectivity travels safely inside your phone.

Environmentally Friendly

eSIM technology eliminates the need for plastic SIM cards, packaging, and shipping. Over billions of SIM cards produced annually, this represents a meaningful reduction in electronic waste and carbon emissions from manufacturing and distribution.

How Does eSIM Work for Travel?

Understanding how an eSIM works for international travel is straightforward. The process revolves around downloading a digital carrier profile to your device and activating it when needed. Here is the typical workflow:

When you purchase a travel eSIM plan, the provider creates a carrier profile associated with their network partnerships in your destination country or region. This profile contains all the information your phone needs to connect to local cellular networks — including authentication credentials, network access parameters, and data plan details.

The profile is delivered to you as a QR code — either via email, within the provider's app, or on your purchase confirmation page. When you scan this QR code with your phone's camera (through the eSIM settings menu), your device downloads and installs the carrier profile onto its embedded SIM chip.

Once installed, the eSIM profile sits dormant until you activate it. You can install the eSIM days or even weeks before your trip. When you arrive at your destination and turn on your phone, the travel eSIM connects to the strongest available partner network in that area. From the user's perspective, it is exactly like using a local SIM card — you get local data speeds at local prices.

Modern smartphones with dual SIM capability (one physical SIM slot plus eSIM, or dual eSIM on newer iPhones) let you run two lines simultaneously. This means your home carrier remains active on one line while the travel eSIM handles data on the other. Your phone intelligently routes calls through your primary number and data through the travel eSIM.

When your trip ends or your data runs out, you can simply deactivate the eSIM line, purchase a top-up, or delete the profile entirely. The process is completely reversible and you can reinstall new eSIM profiles whenever you need them.

eSIM Compatible Devices

Before purchasing an eSIM for international travel, you need to verify that your device supports eSIM technology. The good news is that most smartphones released in the last few years include eSIM support. Below is a comprehensive breakdown by manufacturer.

iPhone Models with eSIM

Apple introduced eSIM support starting with the iPhone XS lineup in 2018 and has included it in every iPhone since. The following models support eSIM:

iPhone 16 series — iPhone 16, 16 Plus, 16 Pro, 16 Pro Max (dual eSIM, no physical SIM tray in US models)
iPhone 15 series — iPhone 15, 15 Plus, 15 Pro, 15 Pro Max
iPhone 14 series — iPhone 14, 14 Plus, 14 Pro, 14 Pro Max (US models are eSIM-only)
iPhone 13 series — iPhone 13 mini, 13, 13 Pro, 13 Pro Max
iPhone 12 series — iPhone 12 mini, 12, 12 Pro, 12 Pro Max
iPhone 11 series — iPhone 11, 11 Pro, 11 Pro Max
iPhone XS / XS Max / XR
iPhone SE (2nd generation 2020, 3rd generation 2022)

Starting with iPhone 14 (US models) and iPhone 16 (more regions), Apple has removed the physical SIM tray entirely, making eSIM the only option. These phones support dual eSIM, allowing two active eSIM profiles simultaneously.

Android Phones with eSIM

eSIM support on Android varies more by manufacturer and region. Here are the major brands and their eSIM-compatible models:

Samsung: Galaxy S25 series, Galaxy S24 series, Galaxy S23 series, Galaxy S22 series, Galaxy S21 series, Galaxy S20 series, Galaxy Z Fold/Flip series (all generations), Galaxy Note 20 series
Google Pixel: Pixel 9 series, Pixel 8 / 8 Pro, Pixel 7 / 7 Pro / 7a, Pixel 6 / 6 Pro / 6a, Pixel 5 / 5a, Pixel 4 / 4 XL / 4a, Pixel 3 / 3 XL (limited)
Motorola: Razr series (all generations), Edge 40 and newer
OnePlus: OnePlus 12, 11, and Open
Huawei: P40 and newer (availability varies by region)
Xiaomi: Xiaomi 13 series and newer (select markets)
Sony: Xperia 1 IV and newer, Xperia 5 IV and newer

Tablets and Other Devices

eSIM is not limited to phones. Several tablets and wearables also support eSIM:

Apple iPad: iPad Pro (2018 and newer), iPad Air (3rd gen and newer), iPad (7th gen and newer), iPad mini (5th gen and newer)
Samsung tablets: Galaxy Tab S9 series (select models)
Windows laptops: Select models from Lenovo, HP, Dell, and Microsoft Surface with LTE/5G support
Smartwatches: Apple Watch (Series 3 and newer with cellular), Samsung Galaxy Watch (LTE models)

Important note: Even if your device model supports eSIM, carrier-locked phones may have eSIM functionality disabled. Contact your carrier to verify that your device is unlocked for eSIM use before purchasing a travel plan.

How to Set Up Your Travel eSIM

Setting up an eSIM for international travel is a simple process that takes just a few minutes. Follow these five steps to get connected before your next trip. We recommend completing steps 1 through 4 at home before you depart.

Step 1: Check Device Compatibility

Verify your phone supports eSIM. On iPhone, go to Settings > General > About and look for an "Available SIM" or "Digital SIM" section. On Android, navigate to Settings > Connections > SIM Manager (Samsung) or Settings > Network & Internet > SIMs (Pixel). If you see an option to add an eSIM or mobile plan, your device is compatible. Also make sure your phone is carrier-unlocked — locked phones may block third-party eSIM profiles.

Step 2: Choose Your eSIM Provider and Plan

Compare providers like Airalo, Holafly, Nomad, and GigSky — or use an eSIM plan finder tool to narrow down your options. Consider these factors when choosing: your destination country or region, how much data you need (1 GB for light use, 5–10 GB for moderate use, unlimited for heavy use), your trip duration, and whether you need coverage in one country or multiple countries. Regional plans are often the best value for multi-country trips.

Step 3: Purchase and Receive Your eSIM

Complete your purchase through the provider's app or website. You will receive a QR code via email or within the app. Some providers like Airalo also support direct in-app installation without a QR code. Save the QR code — you may want to screenshot it or keep the email accessible, as you will need it for the installation step.

Step 4: Install the eSIM Profile

Make sure you are connected to Wi-Fi. On iPhone, go to Settings > Cellular > Add eSIM > Use QR Code and point your camera at the QR code. On Android, go to Settings > Connections > SIM Manager > Add eSIM and scan the QR code. The download takes just a few seconds. Once installed, give the new line a recognizable label like "Travel Data" so you can easily identify it later.

Step 5: Configure and Activate

Set your travel eSIM as the default data line (Settings > Cellular > Cellular Data on iPhone). Keep your primary line as default for calls and messages. When you arrive at your destination, make sure the travel eSIM line is turned on and enable data roaming for that specific line if prompted. Your phone will automatically connect to the strongest local partner network. Most travel eSIMs activate within seconds of connecting.

eSIM Coverage by Region

One of the greatest advantages of using an eSIM for international travel is the extensive global coverage offered by major providers. Whether you are heading to popular tourist destinations in Europe or exploring remote areas in Southeast Asia, there is likely an eSIM plan available. Here is a region-by-region overview of what to expect. You can also browse eSIM availability by country for specific destination details.

Europe

Europe has some of the best eSIM coverage in the world, making it an ideal destination for eSIM travelers. Most providers offer plans covering 30 to 40 European countries under a single regional plan, including all EU member states. Thanks to EU roaming regulations, networks across Europe are well-integrated and reliable.

Popular destinations with excellent coverage: France, Germany, Italy, Spain, United Kingdom, Netherlands, Portugal, Switzerland, Austria, Greece, Czech Republic, and all Scandinavian countries. You can expect 4G LTE speeds in major cities and solid 4G coverage in most rural areas. 5G coverage is expanding rapidly in Western European cities.

Typical pricing: 1 GB / 7 days for $5–8; 5 GB / 30 days for $15–20; 10 GB / 30 days for $20–30; unlimited data plans from $30–50 for 15–30 days.

Asia Pacific

Asia offers varied coverage depending on the country. Major hubs like Japan, South Korea, Thailand, and Singapore have excellent eSIM infrastructure with fast 4G and growing 5G networks. Southeast Asian countries including Vietnam, Indonesia, Malaysia, and the Philippines also have strong coverage in urban areas.

Key considerations: China requires special attention — most travel eSIMs work in mainland China but may not bypass the Great Firewall, meaning some apps and websites might still be restricted. If you need unrestricted internet in China, look for eSIM plans that specifically advertise VPN or unrestricted access. Japan and South Korea have some of the fastest mobile networks in the world, and eSIM plans there tend to offer excellent speeds.

Typical pricing: Single-country plans (Japan, Thailand) range from $4–6 for 1 GB to $15–25 for 10 GB. Regional Asia plans covering 10–15 countries typically cost $20–40 for 5–10 GB over 30 days.

North America

The United States, Canada, and Mexico are well-covered by travel eSIM providers. The US has extensive 4G LTE and 5G coverage through partnerships with major carriers like T-Mobile and AT&T. Canada offers strong coverage in populated areas along the southern border but limited connectivity in the northern wilderness. Mexico has good coverage in cities and tourist areas.

Typical pricing: USA plans range from $5 for 1 GB / 7 days to $25 for 10 GB / 30 days. North America regional plans covering USA, Canada, and Mexico typically cost $15–35 for 5–10 GB.

Other Regions

Middle East: UAE, Saudi Arabia, Turkey, Israel, and Qatar have good eSIM coverage. Turkey and UAE are particularly well-served with affordable plans starting at $4–5 for 1 GB.

Africa: Coverage is growing but more limited. South Africa, Kenya, Egypt, Morocco, Nigeria, and Tanzania have the best eSIM availability. Plans tend to be slightly more expensive than Asia or Europe, starting at $6–10 for 1 GB. Coverage outside major cities can be inconsistent.

South America: Brazil, Argentina, Chile, Colombia, and Peru have established eSIM support. Regional South America plans are available but cover fewer countries than European equivalents. Expect $8–15 for 3–5 GB plans.

Oceania: Australia and New Zealand have excellent eSIM coverage with fast speeds. Plans are competitively priced at $5–8 for 1 GB and $20–30 for 10 GB.

eSIM Plans and Pricing

eSIM pricing for international travel varies based on destination, data amount, and validity period. To help you budget for your trip, here is a comparison of typical pricing across different plan types and destinations. Prices shown are approximate and based on leading providers as of early 2026.

Plan Type	Data	Duration	Price Range	Cost per GB
Single Country (Asia)	1 GB	7 days	$4 – $6	$4 – $6
Single Country (Europe)	1 GB	7 days	$5 – $8	$5 – $8
Single Country (USA)	5 GB	15 days	$12 – $18	$2.40 – $3.60
Regional Europe (30+ countries)	5 GB	30 days	$15 – $25	$3 – $5
Regional Asia (10+ countries)	5 GB	30 days	$18 – $30	$3.60 – $6
Global (100+ countries)	5 GB	30 days	$30 – $50	$6 – $10
Unlimited Europe	Unlimited	15 days	$30 – $45	N/A
Unlimited Global	Unlimited	15 days	$45 – $70	N/A

How to choose the right plan: You can compare eSIM plans and prices across providers to find the best deal, then estimate your daily data usage. Light users (email, messaging, maps) typically need 200–500 MB per day. Moderate users (social media, web browsing, some video calls) need 500 MB to 1 GB per day. Heavy users (streaming, video calls, uploading photos) need 1–3 GB per day. Multiply your daily need by your trip length to find the right data amount.

Money-saving tip: Buying a larger data plan is almost always cheaper per gigabyte than buying smaller plans or topping up multiple times. If you are on the fence between two plan sizes, the larger one usually offers better value. Also, regional plans covering multiple countries cost just slightly more than single-country plans while giving you far more flexibility.

Most eSIM providers also offer top-up options — if you run out of data before your trip ends, you can purchase additional data through the provider's app without needing a new QR code or installation process. This makes it easy to adjust on the go without losing connectivity.

eSIM vs Traditional SIM Cards for Travel

How does a travel eSIM compare to buying a local physical SIM card? Both options help you avoid expensive carrier roaming, but they differ in convenience, flexibility, and cost. Here is a detailed comparison to help you decide which option is right for your international trip.

Feature	Travel eSIM	Physical SIM Card
Setup Time	5 minutes from home	30–60 minutes at destination
Availability	Purchase anytime online	Airport kiosks, local shops
Activation	Instant via QR code	May require ID verification
Multi-Country	Regional plans available	One country per SIM card
Keep Home Number	Yes (dual SIM)	Must swap SIM cards
Risk of Loss	None (embedded)	Easy to lose small card
Pricing	Slightly higher per GB	Often cheapest per GB locally
Language Barrier	None (purchase in English)	May face language issues
Reusable	Some plans allow top-up	Usually disposable
Device Compatibility	Requires eSIM support	Works on any unlocked phone

When to choose eSIM: Pick an eSIM if you value convenience, are visiting multiple countries, want to keep your home number active, or prefer to set everything up before your trip. The eSIM is especially advantageous for short trips where the time spent finding and purchasing a physical SIM would cut into your vacation.

When to choose a physical SIM: A local physical SIM might be the better choice if your phone does not support eSIM, if you are staying in one country for a long time and want the absolute cheapest rates, or if you are traveling to a region where eSIM coverage from major providers is limited. In countries like India or some parts of Africa, local physical SIMs may still offer significantly better pricing and coverage.

The hybrid approach: Many experienced travelers use both. They keep a travel eSIM as their primary data source for convenience and reliability, and carry a local physical SIM as a backup for countries where local SIMs are dramatically cheaper or where eSIM coverage is spotty. With dual SIM phones, this combination is seamless.

Best eSIM Providers for International Travel 2026

The travel eSIM market has grown significantly, with numerous providers competing on price, coverage, and features. After researching the leading options, here are the top eSIM providers for international travelers in 2026.

Airalo

Best for: Budget travelers and extensive destination coverage

Airalo is the largest and most well-known travel eSIM marketplace, offering plans for 200+ countries and regions. Their strength lies in competitive pricing and the sheer breadth of their coverage. The Airalo app is well-designed and makes managing multiple eSIM plans simple.

Pros: Widest destination coverage, competitive prices starting from $4.50, user-friendly app, referral credits, both local and regional plans available. Cons: Data-only plans (no voice or SMS), customer support can be slow during peak travel seasons, some country-specific plans have limited data options.

Pricing example: Europe regional (39 countries, 5 GB, 30 days) — approximately $18. Japan (3 GB, 30 days) — approximately $11.

Holafly

Best for: Unlimited data plans and worry-free travelers

Holafly specializes in unlimited data plans, which is a standout feature in the travel eSIM market. If you do not want to worry about data usage while traveling, Holafly is an excellent choice. They cover 170+ destinations with plans that have no data cap.

Pros: Truly unlimited data (no throttling on most plans), simple pricing structure, 24/7 live chat support, easy installation. Cons: Higher starting price than metered plans, no voice or text included, unlimited speeds may be reduced to 512 Kbps in some countries after heavy use, fewer destination options than Airalo.

Pricing example: Europe unlimited (30 countries, 15 days) — approximately $42. USA unlimited (15 days) — approximately $39.

Nomad

Best for: Flexible plans and transparent pricing

Nomad (formerly eSIM.net) offers a clean, transparent approach to travel eSIM plans. They stand out with their straightforward pricing, generous data allocations, and excellent app experience. Nomad also supports data sharing across devices via personal hotspot on supported plans.

Pros: Clear pricing with no hidden fees, generous validity periods, good app interface, data sharing supported, plans for 100+ countries. Cons: No unlimited plans, slightly smaller coverage area than Airalo, newer company with a shorter track record.

Pricing example: Europe regional (30 countries, 5 GB, 30 days) — approximately $16. Southeast Asia (5 GB, 30 days) — approximately $14.

GigSky

Best for: Apple device users and premium connectivity

GigSky is one of the oldest travel eSIM providers and is integrated directly into the Apple App Store and iPhone settings. This tight Apple integration makes them especially easy to use for iPhone and iPad travelers. They focus on reliable connections and premium network partners.

Pros: Built-in Apple integration for seamless setup, reliable network quality, available in 190+ countries, premium support. Cons: More expensive than competitors, fewer plan options per destination, no Android app (uses QR code instead), limited data amounts on basic plans.

Pricing example: Global plan (1 GB, 15 days) — approximately $10. Europe (3 GB, 30 days) — approximately $25.

Ubigi

Best for: Frequent travelers and multi-device use

Ubigi (by Transatel, a subsidiary of NTT) offers eSIM plans optimized for both phones and connected devices like laptops and tablets. They are a solid choice for business travelers who need connectivity across multiple devices. Ubigi also offers subscription-based plans for very frequent travelers.

Pros: Multi-device support (phone, tablet, laptop), pay-as-you-go and subscription options, backed by NTT (major telecom), good for business travel, available in 190+ countries. Cons: Interface can feel dated, pricing slightly above average for casual travelers, some plans auto-renew (be sure to check settings).

Pricing example: Europe (3 GB, 30 days) — approximately $14. Global (1 GB, 30 days) — approximately $9.

Tips for Traveling with eSIM

Getting the most out of your travel eSIM requires a bit of planning and know-how. Here are practical tips from experienced international travelers to help you stay connected smoothly throughout your trip.

Install your eSIM before you leave home. Always set up your travel eSIM while you still have reliable Wi-Fi access. Do not wait until you arrive at the airport or your destination — you might not have connectivity to download the profile when you need it most.
Screenshot your QR code. Before you scan and install the eSIM QR code, take a screenshot and save it to your camera roll. If something goes wrong during installation, you will have a backup. Also save the confirmation email from your provider.
Label your eSIM lines clearly. When you install the eSIM, your phone will ask you to name the line. Use descriptive labels like "Travel Europe" or "Japan Data" instead of generic names. This makes it easy to identify and switch between lines, especially if you have multiple eSIM profiles stored.
Turn off data roaming on your primary line. To avoid accidental roaming charges on your home carrier, disable data roaming specifically on your primary/home SIM line. Only enable data roaming on your travel eSIM line where it may be required for the plan to work.
Download offline maps before your trip. Even with an eSIM, having offline maps in Google Maps or Apple Maps is a smart backup. Download maps for your destination cities while on Wi-Fi. You will save data and have navigation even if you temporarily lose signal.
Monitor your data usage. Check your remaining data regularly through your eSIM provider's app or your phone's settings (Settings > Cellular on iPhone). Running out of data unexpectedly in a foreign country is stressful. Many provider apps send notifications when you reach 80% usage.
Know your plan's activation policy. Some eSIM plans activate immediately upon installation, while others activate when you first connect to a network in the destination country. Check this detail before purchasing — if the plan activates immediately, install it closer to your departure date to maximize your validity period.
Keep your eSIM provider's support contact handy. Save your provider's customer support email and in-app chat link where you can access them offline. If you run into connectivity issues abroad, you will need a way to reach support. Many providers offer 24/7 chat support through their apps.
Consider a regional plan for multi-country trips. If you are visiting more than one country, a regional eSIM plan is almost always more cost-effective and convenient than buying separate country plans. European, Asian, and global plans cover dozens of countries under one profile.
Restart your phone if the eSIM does not connect. The most common fix for an eSIM that is not connecting after landing is a simple restart. Turn your phone off and on again, make sure the travel eSIM line is enabled, and wait 30 seconds. This resolves the majority of activation issues travelers encounter.

Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers to the most common questions about using an eSIM for international travel. Whether you are a first-time eSIM user or an experienced traveler, these FAQs cover everything you need to know.

What is an eSIM and how does it work for international travel?

An eSIM (embedded SIM) is a digital SIM built into your phone that lets you activate a cellular plan without a physical SIM card. For international travel, you download a local or regional data plan before your trip, giving you instant connectivity when you land — no roaming charges needed. The eSIM stores the carrier profile digitally and connects to local partner networks in your destination country, giving you local data speeds at a fraction of roaming costs.

Is my phone compatible with eSIM?

Most phones released after 2020 support eSIM. This includes iPhone XS and newer, Samsung Galaxy S20 and newer, Google Pixel 3 and newer, and many Motorola, Huawei, and OnePlus devices. Check your phone settings under Cellular or Mobile Data to see if eSIM is available. You can also check your device's IMEI number on your eSIM provider's website for instant compatibility verification.

How much does a travel eSIM cost?

Travel eSIM plans typically range from $5 to $50 depending on the destination, data amount, and validity period. A 1 GB plan for 7 days in a single country might cost $5–8, while a 10 GB regional plan covering multiple countries for 30 days could cost $25–45. Unlimited data plans for popular destinations like Europe start around $30–45 for two weeks. Prices are consistently lower than traditional carrier roaming fees.

Can I keep my regular phone number while using a travel eSIM?

Yes. If your phone supports dual SIM (physical SIM + eSIM or dual eSIM), you can keep your regular number on one line for calls and texts while using the travel eSIM for data. Most modern smartphones support this dual-SIM configuration. Simply set your home line as default for calls and messages, and the travel eSIM as default for data.

Do I need Wi-Fi to install an eSIM?

Yes, you need an internet connection to download and activate your eSIM profile. This can be Wi-Fi or mobile data. It is best to install your travel eSIM while still at home on Wi-Fi before your trip, so it is ready to activate when you arrive. The download is small (typically under 1 MB) and takes just a few seconds.

How do I activate my eSIM when I arrive at my destination?

If you pre-installed your eSIM, simply go to your phone settings and enable the eSIM line or turn on data roaming for the eSIM profile. Most travel eSIMs activate automatically once they connect to a supported network. Some plans activate immediately upon installation, regardless of location. Check your specific plan's activation policy before traveling.

What is the difference between eSIM and physical SIM for travel?

An eSIM is digital and can be set up remotely before your trip, while a physical SIM must be purchased and inserted manually. eSIM offers instant activation, no risk of losing a tiny card, and the ability to switch plans without swapping SIMs. Physical SIMs may offer slightly cheaper pricing in some local markets but require finding a shop and potentially dealing with language barriers and ID verification requirements.

Can I use an eSIM in multiple countries?

Yes. Many eSIM providers offer regional and global plans that cover multiple countries with a single plan. For example, you can get a Europe plan covering 30+ countries or a global plan covering 100+ countries. This is ideal for multi-destination trips. Your phone will automatically connect to partner networks as you cross borders — no configuration changes needed.

What happens when my eSIM data runs out?

When your data runs out, you can typically purchase a top-up through the eSIM provider app or website. Some providers offer automatic top-ups. Alternatively, you can buy a new eSIM plan altogether. Your existing phone number and primary SIM remain unaffected. Most provider apps will notify you when you are running low on data so you can plan ahead.

Is eSIM safe and secure for international travel?

Yes, eSIM is very secure. The eSIM profile is encrypted and stored in a dedicated chip on your device. It cannot be physically removed or cloned like a traditional SIM card, making it more secure against SIM-swapping attacks and theft. Your data is transmitted over the same encrypted cellular networks used by local subscribers, so your connection is just as secure as using a local SIM.

Can I use eSIM for phone calls and texts while abroad?

Most travel eSIM plans are data-only. However, you can make calls and send texts using apps like WhatsApp, FaceTime, Telegram, or Skype over the data connection. Some eSIM providers do offer plans with voice minutes and SMS, but these are less common and more expensive. With a dual SIM setup, you can still receive calls on your primary number while using the eSIM for data.

How many eSIM profiles can my phone store?

Most modern phones can store 8 to 10 eSIM profiles simultaneously, though only one or two can be active at a time. This means you can pre-load eSIMs for multiple destinations and switch between them as you travel without deleting profiles. iPhone 14 and newer can store up to 8 eSIM profiles, while most Android devices support 5 to 8 profiles depending on the manufacturer.

Do eSIM plans include data roaming?

Travel eSIM plans use local network partnerships rather than traditional roaming, which is why they are much cheaper than carrier roaming. The plan you purchase already includes access to networks in the specified countries — there are no surprise roaming charges. However, you may need to enable the "data roaming" toggle on your phone for the eSIM line, as this is how your device allows the eSIM to connect to partner networks.

Can I delete and reinstall an eSIM?

You can delete an eSIM profile from your phone at any time. However, whether you can reinstall it depends on the provider. Some providers allow re-downloading the same profile, while others require you to purchase a new plan. Always check with your provider before deleting an eSIM. As a precaution, keep your QR code saved in your email or screenshots in case you need to reinstall.