Everything you need to know about eSIM

What is eSIM and how does it work?

eSIM (embedded SIM) is a digital SIM card built directly into your device. Unlike a traditional plastic SIM card, you don't need to physically insert or replace it. It represents the most modern way to connect to mobile networks worldwide.

Basic principle of eSIM operation

eSIM works on the same principle as a classic SIM card, but in digital form:

• Contains a chip built directly into your device
• Downloads profiles of mobile operators remotely via the internet
• Allows storage of multiple different profiles simultaneously
• Enables switching between operators without physically changing cards

When you purchase a data eSIM, the provider sends you a QR code or activation details. After scanning or entering them, the corresponding profile is downloaded to your device and you can immediately use the mobile services of that operator.

History and development of eSIM technology

eSIM technology has an interesting history:

• 2010: Giesecke & Devrient (G&D) developed the first eSIM technology
• 2016: The international GSMA association standardized eSIM specifications
• 2017: Google Pixel 2 became the first smartphone with eSIM support
• 2018: Apple introduced eSIM in iPhone XS, XS Max, and XR models
• 2022-2024: Mass adoption of eSIM technology, with some models (e.g., iPhone 14 in the USA) no longer having a physical SIM slot

Today, eSIM technology is available in dozens of countries and offered by hundreds of mobile operators worldwide. For travelers, it represents an ideal solution to stay connected abroad without expensive roaming charges.

Main benefits of eSIM for travelers

Why choose eSIM when traveling abroad?

Using eSIM for travel brings numerous advantages that can significantly enhance your stay abroad:

1. Significant cost savings

Our analysis shows that travelers can save 60-90% of costs with eSIM compared to regular roaming:

• One-week vacation in Europe: Roaming €70 vs. eSIM €15 (savings up to 78%)
• Two-week trip across Asia: Roaming €140-210 vs. eSIM €25 (savings up to 88%)
• Monthly stay for digital nomads: Roaming €300-450 vs. eSIM €35 (savings up to 92%)

2. Immediate connectivity upon arrival

With eSIM, you get internet connection immediately after landing:

• No searching for SIM card vendors at the airport
• No waiting in lines at mobile service kiosks
• No problems with language barriers when buying a local SIM
• Immediate access to maps, translators, and transportation apps

3. Keeping your home number

Thanks to dual functionality, you can:

• Use your home SIM for incoming calls and SMS
• Simultaneously use local data connection via eSIM
• Remain accessible on your regular number for family and friends
• Avoid having to share a new phone number

4. Flexibility and convenience

eSIM offers unrivaled flexibility:

• Secure connectivity even before departure
• Switch between different operators as needed
• Easily purchase additional data if you run out
• Select the exact size of data package based on trip length

To maximize these benefits, we recommend comparing offers from different providers using our eSIM comparison tool, which will help you find the best solution for your specific destination.

Device compatibility

Is your device compatible with eSIM?

Before getting a data eSIM, it's important to verify whether your device supports it. eSIM support has significantly expanded in recent years, but it's still not standard in all mobile phones.

Compatible Apple devices

Apple was one of the first manufacturers to implement eSIM technology in their devices:

• iPhone: iPhone XR, XS, XS Max and all newer models (up to 20 eSIM profiles)
• iPad: iPad Pro (3rd generation and newer), iPad Air (3rd generation and newer), iPad (7th generation and newer)
• Apple Watch: Series 3 and newer (1 eSIM profile)

Compatible Android devices

In the Android ecosystem, eSIM support varies by manufacturer:

• Google: Pixel 3 and newer (1 eSIM profile)
• Samsung: Galaxy S20 and newer, Note 20 and newer, Z Flip/Fold series (up to 5 eSIM profiles in newer models)
• Motorola: Razr (2019 and newer), Moto G54 5G Power Edition
• Other manufacturers: Selected models from Huawei, Oppo, Xiaomi, and other brands

For a complete and updated list of compatible devices, visit our list of phones with eSIM support, where you'll find detailed information about the maximum number of supported eSIM profiles for individual models.

Phones with the best eSIM support

If you plan to travel frequently and use eSIM, consider the following models with excellent eSIM support:

• iPhone 15 and newer: Supports up to 20 eSIM profiles, ideal for frequent travelers
• Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra: Allows 2 active eSIMs simultaneously and stores up to 5 additional profiles
• Samsung Galaxy Z Flip5/Fold5: Offers support for up to 5 eSIM profiles in an elegant folding design
• Google Pixel 8: Provides excellent eSIM support with the latest Android features

For more information about the best phones with eSIM support, read our article Best eSIM Phones 2024 or if you're looking for more affordable options, visit Cheapest eSIM Phones 2024.

What to do if your device doesn't support eSIM?

If your current device doesn't support eSIM, you have several options:

• Use a physical travel SIM card from international providers
• Consider getting a portable WiFi hotspot for foreign travel (more about portable WiFi hotspots)
• Explore options for adding eSIM support to older phones (how to add eSIM to an unsupported phone)
• Consider upgrading to a newer phone model with eSIM support

How to set up eSIM on your device

Step by step: eSIM installation

Setting up an eSIM is easier than you might think. The process varies slightly depending on your device type, but the basic steps are similar:

Preparation before installation

1. Verify compatibility of your device with eSIM
2. Choose a provider and data plan for your destination
3. Purchase eSIM online (we recommend 1-7 days before travel)
4. Save the QR code or activation details you receive

Installing eSIM on iPhone

1. Open Settings > Cellular
2. Tap Add Cellular Plan
3. Scan the QR code from your eSIM provider
4. Name your plan (e.g., "Thailand data") and complete the setup
5. Select which SIM will be default for data (we recommend eSIM for abroad)

For more detailed instructions, visit our guide how to add eSIM to iPhone.

Installing eSIM on Android

1. Open Settings > Network & Internet > Mobile Network
2. Tap + Add or Add Mobile Plan
3. Select Download SIM or Add Using QR Code
4. Scan the QR code from the provider
5. Name the profile and complete setup following on-screen instructions

For more detailed steps, check our guide how to add eSIM to Samsung.

Installation via provider app

Some providers like Holafly, Airalo, or GigSky offer their own apps for even easier installation:

1. Download the provider's app from App Store or Google Play
2. Purchase a plan directly in the app
3. Follow the instructions for installing eSIM in the app
4. No need to scan a QR code - everything happens automatically

Activating eSIM abroad

After arriving at your destination:

1. Turn off and turn on airplane mode
2. Make sure your eSIM profile is activated
3. Check that you have enabled data roaming for the eSIM
4. Wait for connection to the local network (usually within 2 minutes)

Tip: We recommend setting up and testing your eSIM before departure when you have WiFi access. This ensures everything works properly when you arrive at your destination.

Solving common problems

If you encounter problems when installing or using eSIM:

• eSIM installation fails: Make sure you have a stable internet connection and try scanning the QR code in better lighting
• No signal after arrival: Try toggling airplane mode, restarting your device, or manually selecting a network in settings
• Slow connection: Check if you've exceeded your high-speed data limit, or try manually selecting another available network
• Problems with QR code: You can try manually entering the activation code or converting activation code to QR

For more troubleshooting tips, visit our section eSIM - frequently asked questions and answers.

Best eSIM providers for travel

Overview of top data eSIM providers

There are several specialized providers of eSIM for travel in the market. Each offers specific benefits and is suitable for different types of travelers. Here's an overview of the best ones:

Airalo

3.4/5 ★★★☆☆

Airalo is a popular eSIM marketplace with coverage in 211 countries, fast activation and affordable prices. However, it's not always the best choice for unlimited data.

Basic Information

211 countries, local, regional and global eSIM.

Excellent iPhone app. 4.6 from 61,000 reviews.

Excellent Android app. 4.5 from 72,000 reviews.

Supports data top-ups.

Hotspot allowed.

No speed limitations.

Pros and Cons

Wide coverage (211 countries) and easy activation.

User-friendly app and website.

Immediate functionality after installation without needing to restart.

Significantly higher prices compared to competitors.

Inability to purchase additional data without Wi-Fi after depleting the package.

Low rating on Trustpilot (2.6/5).

Testing

Go to Airalo website View full review

Airalo is one of the most popular providers with the widest coverage. It excels particularly in:

• Extensive offering of local, regional, and global plans
• Simple installation through a user-friendly mobile app
• Competitive prices for short-term trips

Learn more in our detailed Airalo eSIM review.

Holafly

3.5/5 ★★★☆☆

Holafly is a leading Irish eSIM provider with truly unlimited data in more than 160 countries. However, if you only need a small amount of data, it might be more expensive.

Basic Information

160 countries, local and regional unlimited eSIM.

Average iPhone app. 3.5 from 150 reviews.

Excellent Android app. 4.6 from 1,000 reviews.

Supports additional data purchases.

Hotspot mostly limited to 500 MB.

Speed limited according to Fair Use Policy (approx. 4.5 GB/day).

Pros and Cons

Truly unlimited data in 160+ countries.

Fast and helpful customer support.

Low transparency regarding FUP limits.

Hotspot not available in all countries.

Testing

Go to Holafly website View full review

Holafly specializes in unlimited data plans, making it an ideal choice for:

• Digital nomads and remote workers
• Power users who stream videos or frequently use video calls
• Travelers who don't want to worry about data consumption

Detailed information can be found in our Holafly eSIM review.

eSIM4Travel

4.4/5 ★★★★☆

eSIM provider eSIM4Travel from the USA offers very competitive prices for data plans and coverage in 170 countries. It doesn't offer an app, but allows easy setup via QR code and has excellent customer support through online chat.

Basic Information

170 countries, regional plans (Asia, Middle East, Latin America, Europe).

Supports data top-ups.

Hotspot allowed.

No speed limitations.

Pros and Cons

Simple installation and activation.

Very competitive prices.

Excellent customer support.

No mobile app.

Absence of unlimited data plans.

Testing

Go to eSIM4Travel website View full review

eSIM4Travel stands out primarily for its affordability:

• Significantly lower prices than competitors (often up to 4x cheaper than Airalo)
• Excellent customer support with quick response
• High connection speeds thanks to partnerships with leading local operators

More information can be found in our eSIM4Travel review.

GigSky

GigSky is a pioneer in the eSIM field with several unique features:

• Coverage on cruise ships (more than 200 ships worldwide)
• In-flight connection (on board more than 20 airlines)
• Free trial version of 100 MB data without entering payment card details
• Access to the app even without active data thanks to a special "captive portal"

Detailed information can be found in our GigSky review.

How to choose the right eSIM provider?

When selecting a data eSIM provider, consider the following factors:

For budget-conscious travelers

• eSIM4Travel offers the lowest prices per GB of data
• Airalo has advantageous regional packages for multi-destination trips
• Local operators may offer competitive prices in some destinations

For power data users

• Holafly with unlimited data plans (with FUP limit around 4.5 GB/day)
• GigSky offers unlimited plans in some regions

For special needs

• GigSky for connection on cruise ships and during flights
• Revolut eSIM for users of this banking service (Revolut eSIM review)
• Local operators for longer stays in one country

For easy comparison of all available options for your specific destination, use our eSIM comparison tool, which will help you find the best offer based on your requirements.

Comparison of eSIM and physical SIM card

Key differences between eSIM and traditional SIM card

To help you better understand the advantages and disadvantages of both technologies, we've prepared a detailed comparison of eSIM and physical SIM card:

When to choose eSIM and when to choose physical SIM

eSIM is the ideal choice when:

• You travel frequently to different countries
• You need to be online immediately after arrival
• You want to keep your home phone number during travel
• You plan to visit multiple countries during one trip
• You prefer a more convenient solution without physical card manipulation

Physical SIM may be better when:

• You use an older device without eSIM support
• You plan a long-term stay in one country (months)
• You need a local phone number for calls and SMS
• You're traveling to remote areas with limited eSIM availability

For most short and medium-term trips, eSIM represents a more advantageous and convenient solution. However, if you plan a long-term stay in one country, it may be more economical to get a local physical SIM card from a local operator.

Hybrid approach: Combining eSIM and physical SIM

Many experienced travelers choose a combined approach:

• Home physical SIM for incoming calls and SMS
• Foreign eSIM for data connection

This approach allows you to:

• Remain accessible on your regular phone number
• Utilize advantageous local data plans
• Easily switch between different operators as needed
• Optimize costs for mobile services abroad

For more information on how to effectively combine eSIM and physical SIM card, visit our article eSIM for travel: How to stay online abroad.

How to choose the right eSIM for your trip

Key factors when selecting an eSIM

Choosing the right data eSIM for your trip depends on several important factors. The following guide will help you make an informed decision:

1. Destination and coverage

First, consider where you're traveling:

• One country - select a local eSIM for that destination
• Multiple countries in one region - regional plans (e.g., Europe, Asia) are usually more advantageous
• Around the world trip - global eSIM with coverage in multiple regions

Verify that your provider has good coverage in the areas you plan to visit, especially if you're traveling outside major cities.

2. Length of stay

The length of your trip significantly influences the selection of an optimal plan:

• Short trips (1-7 days) - plans with shorter validity from Airalo or eSIM4Travel
• Medium stays (1-3 weeks) - larger data packages or unlimited plans from Holafly
• Long-term stays (1+ month) - consider local operators or special long-term plans

3. Required amount of data

Estimate your data consumption based on planned activities:

• Basic usage (maps, emails, browsing): 1-3 GB/week
• Medium usage (social media, video calls): 3-7 GB/week
• Heavy usage (streaming, remote work): 7+ GB/week or unlimited plan

For a more accurate estimate, use our data consumption guide or articles about what 2 GB of data is enough for, what 5 GB of data is enough for, and what 10 GB of data is enough for.

4. Price and value

Compare offers from different providers and consider:

• Price per GB - can vary significantly between providers
• Validity period - some plans have longer validity for the same price
• Additional features - such as hotspot, option to purchase additional data, customer support

Use our eSIM comparison tool for quick comparison of prices and conditions from various providers.

5. Specific requirements

Also consider your specific needs:

• Hotspot - if you plan to share connection with other devices
• Connection speed - especially important for video calls or streaming
• Customer support - availability of support in case of problems
• Option to purchase additional data - flexibility with higher than planned consumption

Practical tips for selecting an eSIM

• Buy your eSIM in advance - ideally 1-7 days before departure
• Have a data buffer - better more than less, especially in destinations with limited Wi-Fi
• Check FUP conditions for unlimited plans - there's usually a "fair use" limit
• Read reviews - especially from travelers who visited the same destination
• Have a backup solution - in case your primary plan doesn't work as expected

For more tips on how to effectively use data while traveling, visit our guide saving data on vacation.

Most common destinations and eSIM solutions

Top destinations and recommended eSIMs

Americans most frequently look for eSIM for travel to countries outside the United States, where they can't use their domestic plans. Here are the most popular destinations and our recommendations for each:

1. United Kingdom 🇬🇧

Average visit length: 4-5 days
Typical data consumption: 3-5 GB

For the UK, we recommend:

• eSIM4Travel - best value for short visits
• Airalo - good choice for smaller data packages

More information can be found in our guide eSIM for the United Kingdom.

2. Mexico 🇲🇽

Average visit length: 7-10 days
Typical data consumption: 3-5 GB

For Mexico, we recommend:

• Holafly - unlimited data ideal for beach vacations
• eSIM4Travel - cost-effective solution

Details can be found in our guide eSIM for Mexico.

3. Canada 🇨🇦

Average visit length: 5-7 days
Typical data consumption: 3-5 GB

For Canada, we recommend:

• Airalo - excellent coverage even in remote areas
• eSIM4Travel - best prices for longer stays

Details can be found in our guide eSIM for Canada.

4. Italy 🇮🇹

Average visit length: 7-10 days
Typical data consumption: 5-7 GB

For Italy, we recommend:

• Holafly - unlimited data for worry-free vacation
• Airalo - good coverage in tourist areas

More information can be found in our guide eSIM for Italy.

5. Thailand 🇹🇭

Average visit length: 10-14 days
Typical data consumption: 5-10 GB

For Thailand, we recommend:

• Airalo - excellent coverage even on islands
• eSIM4Travel - best prices for longer stays

Detailed information can be found in our guide eSIM for Thailand.

Other popular destinations

Regional eSIM plans

If you plan to visit multiple countries in one region, regional eSIM plans offer better value than individual plans for each country:

Europe

For traveling across European countries:

• Airalo - Eurolink (39 European countries)
• eSIM4Travel - Best Europe 35 (35 European countries)
• Holafly - Europe Unlimited (30+ European countries)

Asia

For traveling across multiple Asian countries:

• Airalo - Asialink (14 Asian countries)
• eSIM4Travel - Best Asia (15 Asian countries)

Americas

For traveling across North and South America:

• Airalo - Latamlink (19 Latin American countries) and Northlink (USA + Canada)
• eSIM4Travel - Americas (29 countries in both Americas)

Global plans

For travelers visiting multiple continents:

• Airalo - Discover Global (coverage in 130+ countries)
• GigSky - Global Data Plan (190+ countries)

To find the best offer for your specific combination of destinations, use our eSIM comparison tool, which allows filtering by multiple countries simultaneously.

Advanced tips for using eSIM

How to maximize data usage while traveling

To get the most out of your data eSIM and avoid the unpleasant surprise of depleting your package, use these proven strategies:

Preparation before travel

• Download maps offline - Google Maps, Maps.me or other apps allow downloading maps for offline use
• Prepare entertainment in advance - download movies, music, and podcasts over home Wi-Fi
• Install necessary apps including translators and guides before your trip
• Configure backups to run only over Wi-Fi

Optimizing device settings

• Activate data saver mode in device settings
• Limit autoplay of videos in social networks
• Turn off automatic updates of apps over mobile data
• Set apps to "Wi-Fi only" for synchronization and updates
• Use "lite" versions of apps (e.g., Facebook Lite, Instagram Lite)

Efficient data use during travel

• Prefer Wi-Fi in hotels, restaurants, and public places for demanding tasks
• Use text messages instead of video calls when possible
• Reduce streaming quality - to 480p instead of HD or 4K
• Monitor data consumption in device settings or provider app
• Turn off mobile data when not actively using it

For more tips on saving data while traveling, visit our detailed guide saving data on vacation.

Managing multiple eSIM profiles

If you travel to multiple countries or regularly use different eSIM profiles, it's important to manage them effectively:

• Name profiles clearly - e.g., "Thailand Airalo 5GB" or "USA GigSky"
• Organize profiles by date - remove old and unused profiles
• Back up QR codes - store them in secure cloud storage
• Track validity of individual eSIM plans
• Use provider apps for easier management of multiple profiles

Solving common problems with eSIM abroad

Even with careful preparation, you may encounter problems. Here are the most common situations and their solutions:

No signal or connection

1. Toggle airplane mode for 30 seconds and then turn it off
2. Verify that you have activated the correct eSIM profile
3. Check roaming settings - must be enabled
4. Manually select network in mobile data settings
5. Restart your device - often solves many problems

Slow connection

1. Check 4G/LTE availability in the location
2. Verify you haven't exceeded high-speed data limit (FUP)
3. Try manually selecting another network if available
4. Move to a location with better coverage

Depleted data

1. Connect to Wi-Fi to purchase additional data
2. Use the provider's app to buy more data (some work even without active connection)
3. Activate backup eSIM if you have one prepared

For more tips on troubleshooting eSIM issues, visit our guide eSIM - what to watch out for.

The future of eSIM technology

Trends and development of eSIM

eSIM technology is rapidly evolving and bringing new possibilities for travel and everyday use. We're tracking several key trends that will shape the future of mobile connectivity:

Expansion of device support

We expect that in the coming years:

• All new smartphones will support eSIM technology as standard
• More manufacturers will follow Apple and offer models with only eSIM
• More affordable phones will begin integrating eSIM even in lower price categories
• Tablets, laptops, and IoT devices will increasingly use eSIM for mobile connection

Simplification of activation process

The process of obtaining and activating eSIM will continue to simplify:

• Integrated eSIM marketplaces directly in operating systems (iOS, Android)
• One-click activation without needing to scan QR codes
• Automatic selection of the most suitable operator based on location
• Seamless transition between different providers

Expansion of 5G eSIM

With the global development of 5G networks:

• More eSIM providers will offer 5G connection for travelers
• Higher speeds will enable more demanding data usage while traveling
• New services based on low latency and high throughput
• Better coverage in remote areas thanks to 5G network expansion

For more information about the differences between 4G and 5G, visit our article 4G vs. 5G: Differences and whether 5G is worth it.

Expansion of services and features

We expect eSIM capabilities to expand with:

• More voice services - not just data, but full-fledged telephone services
• More flexible plans - payment according to actual consumption
• Integration with other travel services - e.g., accommodation bookings, transportation
• Enhanced security and privacy protection

Impact on international travel

eSIM technology is fundamentally changing how we stay connected while traveling:

• End of roaming shocks - predictable data costs abroad
• Seamless transitions between countries without exchanging SIM cards
• Greater competition will lead to lower prices and better services
• Simpler travel with immediate connection upon arrival

Thanks to these trends, travel will become even more comfortable and accessible, as connectivity will be more easily available at reasonable prices anywhere in the world.

Frequently asked questions about eSIM

Conclusion: eSIM as the future of travel connectivity

eSIM technology represents a revolution in how we stay connected while traveling. It offers unprecedented convenience, flexibility, and cost savings compared to traditional solutions. With the possibility of immediate activation, easy switching between operators, and keeping your home number, it's becoming an indispensable tool for modern travelers.

Whether you're planning a weekend trip to Europe, a vacation in an exotic destination, or a long-term stay as a digital nomad, eSIM for travel will allow you to:

• Save up to 90% on roaming costs
• Be online immediately after arrival
• Stay accessible on your regular number
• Flexibly adapt your data plan to your needs

With growing device support, better coverage, and decreasing prices, eSIM is becoming the standard for international connectivity. We recommend trying this technology on your next trip and discovering the freedom it brings.

To find the best data eSIM for your specific trip, use our eSIM comparison tool, which allows you to compare offers from all major providers and select the optimal solution for your needs.

If you have more questions or need advice on selection, don't hesitate to visit our other guides, provider reviews, or the section frequently asked questions and answers about eSIM.