To install a travel eSIM, buy a plan, then scan the QR code or follow the provider’s in-app install while you are on Wi-Fi. When you arrive in Europe, turn on data roaming for the eSIM line and pick it as your mobile data line. That’s it: the whole process takes about five minutes.
The steps below cover iPhone and Android, plus the fixes for the problems travellers hit most often.
Before you start
- Check that your phone supports eSIM and is unlocked. A phone locked to your home carrier may refuse a travel eSIM.
- Use stable Wi-Fi. The eSIM profile downloads over the internet.
- Install before you fly. Most providers start the plan’s validity when the eSIM first connects at your destination, not when you install it. Check your provider’s terms to be sure.
- Keep the QR code or activation details. You usually can’t reinstall the same eSIM after deleting it.
How to install an eSIM on iPhone
There are three common ways, and most travel eSIM apps use the first:
- In the provider’s app. Tap the install button in the app and follow the prompts. iOS adds the eSIM for you.
- With a QR code. Go to Settings → Cellular (called Mobile Service or Mobile Data in some regions) → Add eSIM → Use QR Code, then scan the code.
- Manually. If you can’t scan the code, choose Enter Details Manually and type the SM-DP+ address and activation code from your provider.
When iOS asks, give the new line a clear label such as “Travel”. Then set your lines:
- Default voice line: your home number, if you want to keep receiving calls and texts.
- Cellular data: the travel eSIM.
- Turn off Allow Cellular Data Switching, so your phone doesn’t fall back to your home SIM and run up roaming charges.
How to install an eSIM on Android
Menu names vary by brand, but the path is similar on Google Pixel, Samsung Galaxy and most other Android phones:
- Open Settings → Network & internet → SIMs (on Samsung: Settings → Connections → SIM manager).
- Tap Add SIM, Add eSIM or Download a SIM instead.
- Scan the QR code from your provider, or enter the activation code manually.
- Name the line, then set it as the preferred SIM for mobile data.
When you arrive: turn it on
- Make sure the travel eSIM line is switched on.
- Turn on Data Roaming for the travel eSIM line. Leave roaming off for your home SIM unless your home plan includes free roaming.
- Wait a minute for the phone to register on a local network. You should see a network name and 4G or 5G in the status bar.
If you have signal but no internet, check whether your provider gives an APN setting. Enter it under the eSIM line’s mobile data network settings. Most travel eSIMs set this automatically.
Troubleshooting
| Problem | Most likely fix |
|---|---|
| “No service” after landing | Turn data roaming on for the eSIM line, then toggle airplane mode on and off. |
| Signal but no internet | Check the eSIM is set as the mobile data line, then check the APN. |
| Using your home SIM’s data by mistake | Set the travel eSIM as the data line and turn off automatic data switching. |
| The QR code won’t scan | Enter the SM-DP+ address and activation code manually. |
| “This code is no longer valid” | The eSIM was already installed or deleted. Contact the provider for a new one. |
After your trip
You can switch the travel eSIM line off instead of deleting it. That way you can top it up and reuse it on your next trip, if your provider supports top-ups.
Frequently asked questions
When should I install my travel eSIM?
Install it a day or two before you leave, while you have reliable Wi-Fi. Most travel eSIM plans only start their validity period when the eSIM first connects to a network at your destination, but check your provider's terms because some start on installation.
Do I need to turn on data roaming for a travel eSIM?
Yes, in most cases. Travel eSIMs connect to local partner networks, so your phone treats them as roaming. Turn on data roaming for the eSIM line only and leave it off for your home SIM to avoid charges from your home carrier.
Can I keep my normal phone number while using a travel eSIM?
Yes. On phones that support two active lines, your home SIM can stay on for calls and SMS while the travel eSIM handles mobile data. Set the travel eSIM as the line for mobile data.
Can I reuse a QR code to install the same eSIM twice?
Usually not. Most eSIM QR codes can only be installed once. Don't delete a travel eSIM from your phone until you are sure you no longer need it or its top-ups.
How do I know if my phone supports eSIM?
On an iPhone, go to Settings and look for an option to add an eSIM under Cellular or Mobile Service. On Android, look under the SIM settings for an option to download or add an eSIM. Your phone must also be unlocked, or locked to a carrier that allows other eSIMs.
Sources
Last updated: