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How to set up a travel eSIM

Five minutes at home before you fly. Here's exactly what to tap.

Before you start

  • Do it at home on Wi-Fi, a day or two before you travel.
  • Check your phone is unlocked and supports eSIM. Check here.
  • Have the QR code or the provider's app ready. Don't delete the eSIM once installed: you can't usually reinstall it.

iPhone

  1. Open Settings → Mobile Service.
  2. Tap Add eSIM, then Use QR code (or follow the provider app's one-tap install).
  3. Scan the code and tap Continue.
  4. Label it "Travel" so you can tell the lines apart.
  5. When asked, keep your UK line as the default for calls and texts.

Samsung Galaxy

  1. Open Settings → Connections → SIM manager.
  2. Tap Add eSIM, then Scan QR code from service provider.
  3. Scan the code and confirm.
  4. Give it a name like "Travel".
  5. Leave it switched off until you arrive, if the provider says the plan starts on first connection.

Google Pixel

  1. Open Settings → Network & internet → SIMs.
  2. Tap Add SIM or +, then Download a SIM instead?
  3. Scan the QR code and follow the steps.
  4. Rename it "Travel".
  5. Keep your UK SIM on for calls and texts.

When you land

  1. Turn on the travel eSIM line and set it as the line for mobile data.
  2. Turn on data roaming for the travel eSIM only. Most travel eSIMs need this, because they roam on local networks.
  3. Turn off data roaming on your UK SIM, so it can't use data and charge you.
  4. Leave your UK line on for calls and texts, so bank codes still arrive. Incoming texts are free in most places, but check your network's rates for calls.
Not connecting? Restart the phone, check data roaming is on for the eSIM line, and make sure it's selected for mobile data. Some eSIMs need an APN setting, which the provider lists in its app or email.

Handy extras

  • Download offline maps before you go.
  • Turn off automatic app updates on mobile data.
  • Use the provider's app to check your data balance.
Keep reading

More guides

What is an eSIM?

How eSIMs work, which phones have them, and why they're usually the cheapest way to get data abroad.

How much data do I need?

Our calculator works out your monthly data, and how much you need for a trip.

How to avoid roaming bill shock

Ferries, Greek islands, North Cyprus and the other traps that catch UK travellers out.

Switch network and keep your number

The free text codes that make switching take one working day.

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