eSIM, explained simply

No tech talk. In two minutes you will know what an eSIM is, why travelers use it and whether it is for you.

What is it?

Your phone has a SIM card: the little chip that connects it to a mobile network. An eSIM does the same job, but it is built into the phone. Instead of inserting a chip, you download it. Like downloading a song instead of buying the CD.

What is it for?

Travel. Abroad, your home plan either stops working or charges roaming fees that add up fast. A travel eSIM gives you mobile internet in that country at local prices, from the moment you land.

Do I lose my number?

No. Your phone keeps your normal SIM and adds the eSIM next to it, like two keys on one keyring. Your number, the SMS codes from your bank and your WhatsApp stay the same. The eSIM is only for internet.

What can I do with it?

Everything that needs internet: maps, WhatsApp messages and calls, Instagram, taxi apps, translating menus. What you don't get is a new local phone number for regular calls.

Why not just use roaming?

Roaming passes from home carriers often cost $10 or more per day. A travel eSIM for a whole week usually costs a few dollars. Same internet, much smaller bill.

Why not buy a SIM at the airport?

No queue, no passport copy, no tiny card to swap and lose. You set it up at home in two minutes and it is ready when the plane lands.

How it works, in 3 steps

  1. Plan your trip

    Enter the countries you are visiting. We find the cheapest eSIM combination and you pay once.

  2. Install at home

    On Wi-Fi, tap the link we email you or scan the QR code. It takes about a minute.

  3. Land and go

    Set your phone's mobile data to the eSIM and turn on data roaming for that line only. You are online.

Does my phone support it?

Most phones from 2019 onward do, including iPhone XS and newer, Google Pixel 3 and newer, and recent Samsung Galaxy models. The phone must also be unlocked. Quick test: dial *#06#. If you see a number labeled EID, your phone supports eSIM.

Good to know

  • Install it before you travel, while you are on Wi-Fi. The days only start counting when it first connects at your destination.
  • Turn data roaming off on your home line, so your normal carrier cannot charge you abroad.
  • Don't delete the eSIM until your trip is over. A deleted eSIM usually cannot be installed again.

Mini dictionary

SIM
The chip that connects your phone to a mobile network.
eSIM
The same thing, built into the phone and downloaded instead of inserted.
Roaming
Using your home plan abroad. Usually expensive.
Mobile data
Internet over the phone network, without Wi-Fi.
Unlocked
A phone that works with any carrier, not tied to one.
QR code
The square barcode you scan with your camera to install the eSIM.

Ready to try it?

Plan your route →