Getting started
What an eSIM is, whether it fits your trip, and what to prepare.
| Aspect | How you obtain it | Changing device | Voice number use | How many installs |
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| Trip type | What to check before choosing a plan |
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Preguntas frecuentes
Can an eSIM fully replace my main SIM?+
It can, if the device supports running an eSIM alongside a physical SIM at the same time, but most travel plans are data-only, so it tends to be used alongside your main SIM rather than replacing it entirely.
How far in advance can I buy one?+
Yes, buying well in advance is fine, since what you receive is a profile that has not yet been installed. Validity for most plans starts when it is actually activated, not at the moment of purchase — check the terms on that specific plan's page to be sure.
Do I need several plans for a multi-country trip?+
It depends on whether the plan covers a single region or several countries. Some plans cover a whole region in one purchase — always check the list of covered countries stated on the plan page before buying.
Do I need an existing SIM in the device to install one?+
No, installation can be done over Wi-Fi alone; there is no need for a physical SIM to be present in the device during the installation step.
What if I change my mind and no longer travel?+
Refund terms depend on whether the profile has already been activated or not. Full detail and the process are covered specifically in the refunds category.
Do I have to sign up for an account before buying?+
No, you can buy using only an email address. Having an account simply makes it easier to reopen a past order later — see the account category for detail.
Does using an eSIM require downloading a special app?+
No — installation uses the network settings menu already built into the device. No special app needs to be installed.
Does a device older than around 2018 simply never support it?+
Mostly, no, but the surest way is to check the device's own network settings menu or use our device-checker tool, rather than relying on the release year alone.
After buying a plan, can the country still be changed?+
We have no mechanism for swapping plans, but if the profile has never been installed and you are still within 14 days of payment, refund the first order from the order page and buy the right country's plan instead. Once it is installed there is no refund.
Common questions in this section
What is an eSIM?+
An eSIM is a SIM built into the phone. Instead of inserting a plastic card you download an operator profile onto the phone's eUICC chip. On a supported phone you can add a destination data plan before you leave home, without removing your main SIM.
How does an eSIM work?+
After payment you receive a profile as a QR code or an activation string. Scanning it makes the phone download the profile from the operator's SM-DP+ server and store it as a second line. At your destination, enabling that line lets the phone attach to a partner network the same way a roaming SIM does.
Can I install my eSIM before I travel?+
Yes, and it is the recommended way. Install at home on stable Wi-Fi and leave the line switched off. Most of our plans start counting validity at the first connection at the destination, not at install time — but always check the Activation section on the plan page, because some plans start at purchase.
What does data-only mean?+
The plan provides internet only: no local number, no voice calls or SMS on that line. App calling — LINE, WhatsApp, FaceTime — works normally, and you can still receive SMS on your home number if that line stays enabled.
Which plans include calls and SMS?+
Check the Voice/SMS line on the plan page — most travel plans are data-only. If you need SMS from your bank or services tied to your number, keep receiving those on your home number and use the eSIM for data.
Is an eSIM safer than a physical SIM?+
Physically yes — there is no card to lose or swap, and you never remove your home SIM. Data security itself depends on the connection and apps you use and is no different between eSIM and physical SIM.
Can I just use public Wi-Fi instead?+
Sometimes, but public Wi-Fi often needs registration, only works in spots, and is absent on the street or in transit — exactly when you need maps most. Most travellers use an eSIM as the base and hotel Wi-Fi for heavy downloads.
How does an eSIM differ from a pocket Wi-Fi device?+
An eSIM sits inside your phone: nothing extra to carry, charge or return. A pocket Wi-Fi device is separate hardware that several devices can share, but it must be carried, charged and usually collected and returned at set points. For one or two travellers an eSIM is usually simpler; for a large group that stays together, separate hardware can suit better.
Do I need ID or a passport to buy?+
Buying a travel plan on our site does not require identity documents. Some countries do have their own telecom registration rules, which can apply to certain plans; where that is the case the plan page says so. For a country's exact requirements, check its own regulator rather than a third-party summary.
Can I use a travel plan in my own country?+
Travel plans are built for use in the destinations they list, not as a replacement for your home SIM. If your own country is not in the plan's country list, it will not work there. Check the list on the plan page before buying.
What do I need before buying an eSIM?+
An eSIM-capable device that is not carrier-locked, your destination and travel dates, and Wi-Fi at installation time. That is all.
How is a travel eSIM different from my operator's roaming pack?+
A roaming pack uses your existing number and bills through your operator. A travel eSIM is a separate prepaid data package, while your usual number stays on the phone.
Do I have to register my identity like a local SIM?+
It depends on the destination's rules. Some countries require telecom subscriber registration. Check that country's regulator before travelling.
Read each answer in full
- What is an eSIM?
- How does an eSIM work?
- Can I install my eSIM before I travel?
- What does data-only mean?
- Which plans include calls and SMS?
- Is an eSIM safer than a physical SIM?
- Can I just use public Wi-Fi instead?
- How does an eSIM differ from a pocket Wi-Fi device?
- Do I need ID or a passport to buy?
- Can I use a travel plan in my own country?
- What do I need before buying an eSIM?
- How is a travel eSIM different from my operator's roaming pack?
- Do I have to register my identity like a local SIM?