What's an eSIM?

The SIM card built into your phone — and the easiest way to get online abroad.

The short answer

A SIM card that lives inside your phone

An eSIM (embedded SIM) is a small chip built into your phone that does the job of a plastic SIM card. Instead of inserting a card, you download a mobile plan onto it — by scanning a QR code or tapping a link — and your phone connects to that network.

One phone can hold several eSIM profiles and switch between them in settings, so you can add a travel data plan in minutes and keep your usual SIM for calls and texts.

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eSIM vs physical SIM

Same networks, same speeds — the difference is how it gets to you.

Physical SIM eSIM
Delivery Posted, or bought in a shop By email, within minutes
Setup Open the tray and swap cards Scan a QR code or tap a link
Your usual SIM Comes out of the phone Stays in, your number keeps working
Lost or damaged Easy to lose, break or leave at home Nothing to lose, it's digital
Several plans One card per slot Several profiles on one phone

How it works

From checkout to connected in three steps.

  1. Choose your plan

    Pick your destination and how much data you need — one country, a whole region or the world.

  2. Install it in minutes

    We email you an install link and a QR code. Install it before you leave, while you're on Wi-Fi.

  3. Land and connect

    When you arrive, switch on the eSIM and data roaming — you're online straight away.

See the full installation guide

Why travellers choose an eSIM

No roaming bills

One fixed price, paid up front. No surprises on your phone bill when you get home.

Online the moment you land

No hunting for a SIM shop at the airport, no queues, no paperwork.

Keep your number

WhatsApp and your usual number keep working while the eSIM carries your data.

Share it with a hotspot

Turn on your hotspot and get your laptop or tablet online too.

Does my phone support eSIM?

Most phones from 2018 onwards do: every iPhone from the XS and XR, Google Pixel 3 and newer, Samsung Galaxy S20 and newer, and many more. Your phone also needs to be carrier-unlocked.

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Quick answers

What is the difference between an eSIM and a physical SIM?
Nothing about how the connection works. The difference is delivery: an eSIM arrives by email within minutes and cannot be lost, damaged or left at home, while a physical SIM has to be shipped or bought in person and swapped into the tray — which means taking your usual SIM out.
Can I keep my normal number while using a travel eSIM?
Yes. The travel eSIM carries the data; your usual SIM stays in the phone and keeps your number live for calls and SMS. Most people turn roaming off on the home line and leave the data on the eSIM.
Do I need an internet connection to install an eSIM?
Yes — the phone downloads the eSIM, so it needs Wi-Fi or mobile data for the few minutes the install takes. That's why it's best to install it at home before you travel.

Ready for your next trip?

Find your destination and be online in minutes.

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