Travel eSIM explained: internet abroad without roaming bills

Roaming with your home SIM can be very expensive, and buying a local SIM at the airport means queues and paperwork. A travel eSIM solves both: you buy a data plan online and install it on your phone in a few minutes.

What is an eSIM?

An eSIM is a digital SIM built into your phone. Instead of inserting a plastic card, you scan a QR code or tap "install" in an app. Most phones can hold several eSIMs and use one physical SIM at the same time.

Does my phone support it?

• Most iPhones from the XS / XR onwards, recent Samsung Galaxy S and Z models, and Google Pixel 3 and newer support eSIM. Many other recent Android phones do too.
• Your phone must be unlocked (not tied to one carrier).
• To check: look for "Add eSIM" or "Add mobile plan" in your phone's mobile/cellular settings.

How to set it up

• Buy a plan for your destination (or a regional plan for several countries).
• Install it at home over Wi-Fi before your flight.
• On arrival, switch mobile data to the eSIM and turn on data roaming for that eSIM only.
• Keep your home SIM active for calls and SMS, but turn off its data roaming to avoid charges.

What about WhatsApp?

WhatsApp stays linked to your own number even when you use the eSIM for data, so your contacts can still reach you as usual.

How much data do I need?

For maps, messaging and social media, 1–2 GB per week is often enough. If you plan to video call or share many videos, choose a larger or unlimited plan.