How does a travel eSIM work? Five steps, home to abroad
A travel eSIM is a digital, data-only SIM. Install it at home, then after landing turn on its Data Roaming. On iPhone that's Settings → Mobile Service. Your home SIM stays in your phone.
Do this now
- Pick your destination and plan on eSIMology.
- Pay, then get your eSIM by email in seconds.
- Install it at home on Wi-Fi, using the QR code, one-tap link or manual codes.
- Turn on the travel line after landing, in Settings → Mobile Service (iPhone).
- Turn on Data Roaming for that line, then choose it for mobile data.
- Watch the usage meter on your eSIM page and top up if needed.
What happens when you buy?
You get your eSIM by email in seconds, the moment you pay. Each eSIM has its own web page with a QR code and usage meter. On your eSIM page, iPhones on iOS 17.4 and later get a one-tap Install on this iPhone link.
How do you install it before you travel?
Install it at home on Wi-Fi, before you fly. Your phone must be unlocked. Full guide: install before you travel.
- iPhone: Settings → Mobile Service → Add eSIM → Use QR Code, or Enter Details Manually.
- Samsung: Settings → Connections → SIM manager → Add eSIM → Scan QR code from service provider.
- Pixel: Settings → Network & internet → SIMs → Add SIM → Set up an eSIM.
Buying or installing at home doesn't start the clock on most plans. See when your plan starts.
How do you switch it on when you land?
Turn on Data Roaming for the travel line only, and keep it off for your home line. The travel eSIM uses local partner networks, so your phone treats it as roaming.
- iPhone: Settings → Mobile Service → tap a line → Data Roaming.
- Samsung: Settings → Connections → Mobile networks → Data roaming.
- Pixel: Settings → Network & internet → SIMs → tap a SIM → Roaming.
Then choose the travel line for mobile data. On iPhone, that's Settings → Mobile Service → Mobile Data. Full steps: turn on Data Roaming.
Does your home number still work?
Yes. Your home SIM stays in the phone, so texts still reach your number. The travel eSIM is data only, so call and message over data with WhatsApp, FaceTime or other apps.
What if your data runs low?
Top up from your eSIM page, on plans that allow it. The data joins the same eSIM, so there's nothing new to install.
What's your next step?
Pick a plan on eSIMology, install it on Wi-Fi, then switch on the travel line when you land. Stuck? Contact us with your order number and phone model.
Do I need a new phone to use a travel eSIM?
No, a new phone isn't needed if yours supports eSIM and is unlocked. That includes iPhone XS, XR and later, Google Pixel 3 and later, and Samsung Galaxy S20 and later.
Can I make calls on a travel eSIM?
No, the travel eSIM is data only. Call and message over data with WhatsApp, FaceTime or other apps. Your home SIM keeps your number for texts.
When does my travel eSIM plan start?
Most plans start when the eSIM first connects to a supported network at your destination. A few start on install, and the plan page says which.
