Install your eSIM before you travel
Yes. Install your eSIM at home on Wi-Fi a day or two before you fly. Most plans only start when the eSIM first connects at your destination, so you lose no days.
Do this now
- Connect to your home Wi-Fi.
- Open your eSIM email or order page and install it.
- Label it "Travel" so it's easy to spot.
- Leave your home line on for calls and texts.
- When you land, turn on data roaming for the travel eSIM and choose it for mobile data.
Why install at home
Installing needs an internet connection. At home you have fast, free Wi-Fi and time to read each screen. At the airport you might not. So do it a day or two before you fly and land ready to go.
Will my plan start early?
On most plans, no. The plan starts when the eSIM first connects to a supported network at your destination. Installing it in London starts nothing. A few plans start when you install: the plan's own page tells you which, so check it before you set up. See when does my plan start.
How to install
Our install guide walks you through it in two minutes:
- iPhone on iOS 17.4 or later: tap Install on this iPhone in your email or order page. iPhone steps.
- Any phone: scan the QR code from another screen, or type in the manual codes. Android steps.
When you land
- Turn on data roaming for the travel eSIM.
- Choose the travel eSIM for mobile data.
- Keep your home line on for texts, with its data roaming off.
Data flows within seconds. If it doesn't, our eSIM not working abroad fix gets you online fast.
How early can I install my eSIM?
Any time after you buy. A day or two before your flight is ideal, and on most plans the days only count from your first connection abroad.
Can I install my eSIM at the airport?
Yes, as long as you have Wi-Fi. Home is easier: fast Wi-Fi and no rush.
