eSIM guide

What Is an eSIM & How Does It Work? A Simple Guide

An eSIM is a digital SIM built into your phone β€” no physical card needed. Learn how eSIMs work, why travellers use them, and how to get started.

2 min readUpdated March 2026

What is an eSIM?

An eSIM (embedded SIM) is a digital SIM card built into your phone. Unlike a traditional SIM card, there's no physical chip to insert or swap. Instead, you download a data plan directly to your device by scanning a QR code.

eSIM technology is now supported by most modern smartphones, including iPhone (XS and later), Samsung Galaxy (S20 and later), Google Pixel (3 and later), and many others.

How does an eSIM work?

When you purchase an eSIM data plan, you receive a QR code. Scanning this QR code with your phone's camera installs the eSIM profile, which connects you to a local mobile network in your destination country.

Your eSIM works alongside your existing physical SIM, so you keep your regular phone number for calls and texts while using the eSIM for data.

A traveller checking their phone at the airport, ready to connect
No queues. No SIM swaps. Just scan and go.

"An eSIM is the difference between fumbling with a SIM tray on arrival and being online before the seatbelt sign is off."

Why use an eSIM for travel?

No more roaming fees

International roaming charges from your home carrier can be extremely expensive. An eSIM gives you a local data plan at local prices, saving you significant money.

Instant setup

No need to find a local SIM shop when you land. Your eSIM is ready before you even board the plane. Just scan the QR code and activate when you arrive.

Keep your number

Your existing SIM stays active for calls and texts. The eSIM handles data only. No need to share a temporary number with contacts.

Multiple plans

Many phones support multiple eSIM profiles, so you can have plans for different countries ready to go. Switch between them as you cross borders.

How to get started

  1. Check compatibility β€” make sure your phone supports eSIM
  2. Choose a destination β€” browse our country and region plans
  3. Purchase a plan β€” complete checkout in under a minute
  4. Scan the QR code β€” install the eSIM on your device
  5. Activate on arrival β€” connect to local networks when you land

Ready to try it? Find the perfect plan for your next trip.

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Frequently asked questions

How do I download an eSIM?

After purchasing a plan, you'll receive a QR code by email. Scan it with your phone to install the eSIM profile β€” no app download needed. See our full eSIM installation guide for step-by-step instructions.

Is my phone eSIM compatible?

Most phones released after 2019 support eSIM, including iPhones (XS+), Samsung Galaxy (S20+), and Google Pixel (3+). Check our full compatibility list to confirm your device.

How much data do I need for travel?

It depends on your usage β€” light browsing needs 1-3 GB per week, while heavy video streaming can use 10+ GB. Use our Data Calculator to get a personalised estimate.

What people ask

How do I download an eSIM?+

After purchasing a plan, you'll receive a QR code by email. Scan it with your phone to install the eSIM profile β€” no app download needed. See our full eSIM installation guide for step-by-step instructions.

Is my phone eSIM compatible?+

Most phones released after 2019 support eSIM, including iPhones (XS+), Samsung Galaxy (S20+), and Google Pixel (3+). Check our full compatibility list to confirm your device.

How much data do I need for travel?+

It depends on your usage β€” light browsing needs 1-3 GB per week, while heavy video streaming can use 10+ GB. Use our Data Calculator to get a personalised estimate.

Ready to get connected?

Browse eSIM plans for 150+ destinations. Instant activation, no physical SIM needed.