eSIM for Travel
Why travellers are switching to eSIM
An eSIM lets you buy a local data plan before you even board the plane. No more expensive roaming charges, no hunting for SIM card shops at the airport — just instant, affordable data in 200+ countries.
Why eSIM is Perfect for Travel
- Buy before you fly — Purchase and install a local data plan from home, days before your trip. The moment you land and turn off aeroplane mode, you're connected.
- Save 70-90% vs roaming — International roaming charges from your home carrier can be astronomical. A travel eSIM gives you local rates, often starting from just a few pounds for several GB.
- Keep your home number active — Your main SIM stays in your phone (or stays active as your primary eSIM). You can receive calls and texts on your home number while using the travel eSIM for cheap data.
- No more SIM swapping — Don't risk losing your home SIM card at an airport kiosk. Your eSIM is digital — your home SIM stays safely where it is.
- Multi-country plans — Travelling through Europe or Asia? Regional eSIM plans cover multiple countries with one purchase. No need to buy a new SIM at every border.
How to Use eSIM When Travelling
Check your phone supports eSIM
Most phones from 2020 onwards do. Check our compatible phones list if you're not sure.
Choose a travel eSIM provider
Providers like Airalo, Holafly, and Saily offer data plans for 200+ countries. Compare plans to find the best deal for your destination.
Buy and install before your trip
Purchase the plan and scan the QR code while you're still at home with Wi-Fi. The eSIM installs in minutes.
Land and connect
When you arrive, turn off aeroplane mode. Your travel eSIM automatically connects to a local network. You're online instantly.
Switch back when you're home
When you return, switch your data back to your home plan in Settings. You can keep the travel eSIM for your next trip or delete it.
eSIM vs Other Travel Options
| Travel eSIM | Airport SIM Card | Carrier Roaming | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Setup time | 5 minutes from home | 30 min+ at airport | Automatic but expensive |
| Cost (1 week, 5GB) | £3 - £15 | £5 - £20 | £30 - £100+ |
| Keep home number? | Yes — dual SIM | No — unless dual SIM phone | Yes |
| Multi-country trips | One regional plan covers all | New SIM each country | Works everywhere (expensive) |
| Risk of losing SIM | None — it's digital | Easy to lose tiny card | None |
| Available before trip? | Yes | Rarely | Yes |
Tips for Using eSIM Abroad
- Install at home — Don't wait until you arrive. You need internet to install the eSIM, and you might not have it at your destination.
- Turn off data roaming on your home SIM — To avoid accidental roaming charges, disable data roaming on your home plan. Use the travel eSIM for data only.
- Check if your plan includes calls — Most travel eSIMs are data-only. Use WhatsApp, FaceTime, or similar apps for calls and messages.
- Monitor your data usage — Check your remaining data in your phone settings or the provider's app. Running out mid-trip is inconvenient.
- Buy more data than you think you need — Maps, translations, ride-hailing apps, and social media all use data. It's usually cheaper to buy a larger plan upfront than to top up later.
Key Takeaway
A travel eSIM is the easiest and cheapest way to stay connected abroad. Set it up before you leave, and you'll have data the moment you land.
Ready to find the best eSIM deal for your next trip?
Compare eSIM Deals →Frequently Asked Questions
Yes. Your phone must be carrier-unlocked to use an eSIM from a different provider. Most phones bought outright are unlocked. If you bought from a carrier, contact them to unlock it (this is usually free after your contract ends).
Yes. With dual SIM, your home number stays active for incoming calls and texts. You just use the travel eSIM for data. This is one of the biggest advantages over buying a physical SIM abroad.
You'll lose data access on that eSIM. Most providers let you top up through their app. Alternatively, you can buy a new plan. Your home SIM is unaffected.
Most travel eSIMs are data-only. For calls, use internet-based apps like WhatsApp, Skype, or FaceTime over your eSIM data connection. Some providers do offer plans with calling minutes included.
Most popular tourist destinations have excellent eSIM coverage including Japan, Thailand, the US, UK, Europe, Australia, and South Korea. Coverage is expanding rapidly — over 200 countries are now supported by major eSIM providers.