What is an eSIM? A simple guide for travelers

Everything you need to know before buying your first travel eSIM.

An eSIM (embedded SIM) is a SIM card built into your phone’s hardware. Instead of buying and inserting a plastic card, you download a mobile plan by scanning a QR code. Most phones can hold several eSIMs and use two lines at once.

Why travelers use eSIMs

  • Cheaper than roaming: local-rate data instead of $10+ per day roaming passes.
  • Instant: buy online and get your QR code by email in minutes.
  • Keep your number: your home SIM stays in the phone for calls and SMS; WhatsApp keeps working.
  • No queues: no airport SIM kiosks, passports or top-up cards.

Data, daily and unlimited plans

A data plan gives a fixed number of GB (e.g. 10 GB for 30 days). A daily plan gives a full-speed allowance every 24 hours and then continues at a lower speed. An unlimited plan never cuts you off, with a fair-use limit before speeds drop.

Is my phone compatible?

Dial *#06# and look for an EID number, or check our compatible phones list. The phone must be carrier-unlocked.

How much data do I need?

UsePer day
Maps, messaging, email150–300 MB
Social media & photos0.5–1 GB
Video calls~0.5 GB per hour
HD streaming~2–3 GB per hour

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