Do I need to turn off or remove my old SIM card when using an eSIM?

No, you do NOT need to turn off or remove your original SIM card. Most eSIM-compatible phones support dual SIM dual standby (DSDS), meaning both your physical SIM and eSIM can be active simultaneously. You can choose which one to use for data, calls, and SMS separately. This is one of the biggest advantages of eSIM for travel — keep your home number active for calls and SMS while using a travel eSIM for data.

Which phones support eSIM?

Most flagship and mid-range phones released since 2018 support eSIM. iPhone XS, XS Max, XR and newer all support eSIM. Samsung Galaxy S20 series and newer, Google Pixel 3 and newer support eSIM. Many Android phones from Huawei, Xiaomi (global models), Oppo, and OnePlus also support it. To check if your phone supports eSIM, go to Settings → Cellular/Mobile → look for 'Add eSIM' or 'eSIM management'. Note that some China-only phone models may not have eSIM enabled even if the hardware supports it.

Where is the best place to buy an eSIM?

There are two main options: direct from eSIM providers (like Airalo, Saily, Holafly, Nomad, Yesim) or through travel platforms (like KKday, KLOOK). We recommend comparing prices on our comparison page first — prices vary significantly by destination, data amount, and provider. Always check which network the eSIM uses (the network matters more than the brand for speed and coverage) and read the fine print on fair use policies and hotspot support.

Which eSIM is the best?

There's no single "best" eSIM — it depends on your destination, trip length, and data needs. For most travelers: prioritize eSIMs that use the best local network in your destination (e.g., Docomo in Japan, AIS in Thailand, Vodafone in Europe). Compare cost per GB, check if hotspot is included, and read reviews for reliability. For short trips, a regional eSIM with 5-10 GB is usually enough. For longer trips, consider a 30-day plan with more data. Use our comparison tool to find the best value.

How do I activate and set up an eSIM?

Activating an eSIM takes 2-5 minutes: 1) Purchase your eSIM plan online. 2) You'll receive a QR code by email or in the provider's app. 3) On your phone, go to Settings → Cellular/Mobile Data → Add eSIM / Add Cellular Plan. 4) Scan the QR code with your camera. 5) Label the plan (e.g., 'Japan Travel') and choose your default settings. 6) Wait until you arrive at your destination, then turn on Data Roaming for the eSIM plan. You should get a signal within 1-2 minutes.

How do I install an eSIM QR code on iPhone?

On iPhone: Open Settings → Cellular → Add eSIM (or 'Add Cellular Plan' on older iOS). Scan the QR code provided by your eSIM provider. Follow the on-screen prompts: choose whether to transfer from another iPhone, label your plan, and set your default line. For travel eSIMs, we recommend setting your primary SIM as the default for calls and SMS, and the travel eSIM as default for cellular data only. iOS 16 and later also support eSIM Quick Transfer between iPhones signed into the same Apple ID.

How do I install an eSIM on Android (Samsung, Google Pixel)?

On Samsung Galaxy: Settings → Connections → SIM card manager → Add eSIM. Scan the QR code and follow the prompts. On Google Pixel: Settings → Network & internet → SIMs → Download a SIM. Scan the QR code. The exact path varies by Android manufacturer and version, but look for 'eSIM', 'SIM manager', or 'Mobile network' in Settings. Make sure you're connected to Wi-Fi during installation, as you'll need to download the SIM profile.

Can I transfer an eSIM to a new phone?

It depends on the provider. Some eSIM providers let you transfer or reinstall the QR code on a new device, while others lock the eSIM to one device. iPhone offers Quick Transfer for eSIMs between iPhones signed into the same Apple ID, but this only works with certain carriers. For travel eSIMs, most providers allow you to reinstall the same QR code if you reset your phone or switch devices, but some may charge a fee or require you to buy a new plan. Always check the provider's policy before purchasing. We recommend saving your QR code email in case you need it again.

When should I install my travel eSIM?

Install the eSIM profile 1-2 days before your trip, while you still have reliable home Wi-Fi. This gives you time to troubleshoot any installation issues before you leave. However, do NOT enable data roaming or start using data until you actually arrive at your destination. Many eSIM plans start counting validity from the moment you first connect to the foreign network, so you want that to happen when you land, not when you're still at home.

Can I make and receive phone calls with an eSIM?

It depends on the eSIM plan. Most travel eSIMs are data-only — they give you mobile internet but no phone number for calls. Some providers offer plans with a local phone number that supports calls and SMS, but these are less common for tourists. If you need to make calls while traveling, you can use internet calling apps like WhatsApp, LINE, WeChat, FaceTime, or Google Voice over your data-only eSIM. These work perfectly fine with data-only eSIMs.

Can I use LINE with an eSIM?

Yes, LINE works perfectly with a data-only eSIM. LINE is an internet-based messaging app — it only needs mobile data or Wi-Fi to work. You don't need a local phone number, and you can keep using your existing LINE account linked to your home phone number. Just make sure you have enough data for voice/video calls if you plan to use those features. The same applies to WhatsApp, WeChat, Telegram, Signal, and other messaging apps.

Can I receive SMS text messages with an eSIM?

Most travel eSIMs are data-only and do not include a phone number for SMS. However, your existing physical SIM card will still receive SMS normally (since you can have both SIMs active simultaneously). For two-factor authentication (2FA) codes from banks, email services, etc., these will come to your home number on your physical SIM — you don't need the eSIM to receive them. If you need a local phone number for SMS, look for eSIM plans that explicitly include a phone number and SMS service.

Can I use WhatsApp / WeChat / Telegram with eSIM?

Absolutely. All internet-based messaging and calling apps work perfectly with a data-only eSIM. WhatsApp, WeChat, Telegram, Signal, Viber, Skype, FaceTime, Google Meet, Zoom — they all just need an internet connection, which is exactly what your eSIM provides. Your existing accounts continue to work as normal; you just get the data through the eSIM instead of your home carrier or Wi-Fi.

Can I use my existing phone number with an eSIM?

For travel eSIMs, no — you get a separate data-only connection. However, your existing phone number stays active on your physical SIM (you can have both active at the same time with dual SIM phones). People can still call and text you on your regular number. If you want to actually move your primary phone number to an eSIM (replacing your physical SIM), you'd need to contact your home carrier to request an eSIM conversion, which is a separate process from buying a travel eSIM.

Why do I need to turn on Data Roaming for a travel eSIM?

Great question! Even though you bought an eSIM specifically for travel, your phone still treats a foreign network as 'roaming' because the eSIM's home network is different from the network you're connecting to. Data Roaming on your phone is just a setting that allows your device to connect to non-home networks. You MUST turn it ON for the travel eSIM to work. Don't worry — you won't get charged roaming fees by your home carrier as long as you set the travel eSIM as your data plan and make sure data roaming is OFF on your home SIM card.

Will I get charged roaming fees by my home carrier if I use an eSIM?

No, as long as you set it up correctly. The travel eSIM is a completely separate plan from your home carrier. You've already paid for it upfront. To avoid accidental home carrier roaming charges: 1) Make sure Data Roaming is turned OFF for your home/primary SIM. 2) Set your cellular data default to the travel eSIM. 3) Keep your home SIM active for calls and SMS only (no data). If you follow these steps, you won't get any surprise bills from your home carrier.

How much data do I need for travel?

It depends on your usage, but here's a rough guide: Light use (maps, messaging, social media scrolling) — 1-2 GB per day. Moderate use (navigation, photos, some streaming, video calls) — 2-4 GB per day. Heavy use (HD streaming, daily video calls, vlogging/uploading) — 5+ GB per day. For a 7-day trip, most people use 5-15 GB total. If you're unsure, it's better to buy a bit more than you think you'll need — running out of data in a foreign country is frustrating. Many providers let you top up if you run out.

What is an FUP (Fair Use Policy) on unlimited eSIM plans?

Many "unlimited" eSIM plans have a Fair Use Policy (FUP) that limits how much high-speed data you get. For example, a plan might say "unlimited data" but slow down to 1-3 Mbps after 5 GB per day or 30 GB total. Always read the fine print! If you only use data for navigation, messaging, and light browsing, the reduced speed might be fine. But if you need to stream video or do video calls, look for plans with a high FUP limit or ones that advertise "truly unlimited at full speed."

Can I use eSIM data in multiple countries?

It depends on the eSIM plan. Single-country eSIMs only work in one country (e.g., Japan-only, Thailand-only). Regional eSIMs work in multiple countries within a region (e.g., Europe, Southeast Asia, East Asia). Global eSIMs work in 100+ countries worldwide. If you're visiting multiple countries on one trip, a regional eSIM is usually the most convenient and cost-effective option. Just check that all countries on your itinerary are on the coverage list.

Can I use hotspot / tethering with an eSIM?

Most eSIMs support hotspot (personal hotspot / tethering), but not all do. Some budget plans block tethering, and some 'unlimited' plans limit how much hotspot data you get. Always check the plan details before buying if hotspot is important to you. If hotspot is supported, it works exactly like with a physical SIM — just turn on Personal Hotspot in your phone settings and connect your other devices (laptop, tablet, etc.) to it.

Why is my eSIM hotspot not working?

If personal hotspot isn't working with your eSIM, try these fixes: 1) Verify the plan includes hotspot — some providers block it. 2) Turn hotspot off and back on in Settings. 3) Restart your phone. 4) Make sure you have cellular data turned on and have a good signal. 5) On iPhone: Settings → Personal Hotspot → make sure 'Allow Others to Join' is on. 6) Try connecting via USB cable first (sometimes Wi-Fi hotspot is buggy). 7) If it still doesn't work, contact your eSIM provider's support — they may need to enable it on their end.

My eSIM is not working / no signal. What should I do?

If your eSIM isn't connecting, try these steps in order: 1) Make sure Data Roaming is turned ON for the eSIM plan (Settings → Cellular → the eSIM plan → Data Roaming). 2) Check you've selected the correct plan for cellular data. 3) Toggle Airplane Mode on and off (wait 30 seconds). 4) Restart your phone. 5) Manually select a network: Settings → Cellular → Network Selection → turn off Automatic → select a network from the list. 6) Verify you're in a covered area. 7) If still not working, contact your provider's 24/7 support — you may need them to refresh your plan on their end.

Why is my eSIM showing 'No Service' or 'No Network'?

No Service on an eSIM is usually one of these issues: 1) Data Roaming is off (most common — turn it on!). 2) The plan hasn't been properly activated by the provider. 3) You're in an area with no coverage from that provider's network partner. 4) The eSIM profile wasn't installed correctly (try reinstalling). 5) The plan has expired or run out of data. 6) Your phone's eSIM hardware has an issue (rare). Start with the airplane mode toggle and data roaming check — these fix 80% of cases.

I installed the eSIM but it won't connect to data. Why?

If the eSIM shows signal but no internet: 1) Check that Mobile Data / Cellular Data is enabled for that plan. 2) Confirm Data Roaming is ON. 3) Check your APN settings — sometimes the APN doesn't auto-configure correctly. Your eSIM provider should give you the correct APN settings in their email. 4) On iPhone: Settings → Cellular → the eSIM → Mobile Data Network → enter the APN. 5) On Android: Settings → Mobile Network → Access Point Names → add the correct APN. 6) Reset network settings (last resort — this also forgets Wi-Fi passwords).

Can't receive SMS on my eSIM. What's wrong?

If your eSIM plan includes a phone number and SMS but you're not receiving texts: 1) Make sure the eSIM plan is active and has signal. 2) Check that SMS is enabled for that line in your settings. 3) Confirm the sender is using the correct phone number for your eSIM line. 4) Try sending an SMS from the eSIM line first (sometimes incoming works after you send one). 5) Note: most travel eSIMs are DATA-ONLY and don't support SMS at all. If SMS is essential, make sure the plan explicitly includes SMS before you buy.

My eSIM data is very slow. How can I speed it up?

If your eSIM data is slower than expected: 1) Check if you've hit the FUP limit on an 'unlimited' plan (most common cause of slow speeds). 2) Try manually selecting a different network — some networks are faster in certain areas. 3) Move to a more open area (walls and buildings weaken signal). 4) Toggle Airplane Mode on/off to reset the connection. 5) Restart your phone. 6) Check if your phone is set to 5G/4G (not 3G). 7) If speed is consistently bad, contact support — there might be a network issue or account problem.

I lost my eSIM QR code. Can I get it again?

First, check your email — most providers send the QR code by email after purchase. Search for the provider name or 'eSIM' in your inbox (including spam/junk folders). If you used an app-based provider (like Airalo or Saily), the QR code should be visible in the 'My Orders' or 'My eSIMs' section of their app or website. If you truly can't find it, contact the provider's customer support with your order number — most will resend it for free. We recommend saving/screenshotting the QR code email as soon as you receive it.

Can I delete / remove an eSIM from my phone?

Yes, you can remove an eSIM at any time. On iPhone: Settings → Cellular → tap the eSIM plan → Remove eSIM (or 'Delete eSIM'). On Android: Settings → Connections → SIM card manager → select the eSIM → Remove. Removing an eSIM permanently deletes the profile from your phone. Whether you can reinstall it later depends on the provider — some allow one-time use only, others let you reinstall. Always check before deleting, especially if the plan still has remaining data or validity.

I accidentally deleted my eSIM. Can I get it back?

Maybe — it depends on the provider. Some eSIMs are single-install only (once deleted, they're gone forever). Others allow reinstalling the same QR code. If you still have the QR code email, try reinstalling it. If that doesn't work, contact your provider's support with your order details. Some providers will reissue your plan for free, others may charge a fee, and some won't help at all. This is why we recommend saving the QR code email and being careful when deleting eSIMs.

What should I do with my eSIM after my trip ends?

After your trip, you can either leave the eSIM installed (but inactive) or remove it. If you might visit the same country again soon and the plan hasn't expired, leave it installed — you can just turn off its data and use your home SIM. If the plan has expired or you don't need it anymore, you can remove it to free up space. Most phones support 8-10+ eSIM profiles stored, so storage isn't usually an issue. Note that removing an eSIM doesn't cancel any subscription — make sure to cancel any recurring plans separately.

Frequently Asked Questions About eSIM

New to eSIM? You probably have questions. From basic setup to common problems, we've answered the most frequently asked questions about eSIM for travel. Whether you're wondering about activation, compatibility, data roaming, or why your eSIM isn't working, you'll find the answer here.

Compare eSIM Plans

30+

Questions answered

Basics & Compatibility

An eSIM (embedded SIM) is a digital SIM card built into your phone. Instead of inserting a physical nano SIM card, you download a SIM profile over the air using a QR code. It works exactly like a physical SIM — connecting you to mobile networks for data, calls, and SMS — but without the physical card. Most modern phones support dual SIM with both a physical SIM and an eSIM active at the same time.

Frequently Asked Questions About eSIM

Basics & Compatibility

Setup & Activation

Calls, Messages & Apps

Data & Roaming

Hotspot & Tethering

Troubleshooting

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