Buy a travel eSim from a provider and you'll receive a QR code by email or through their app. You'll need a Wi‑Fi connection to download and install the eSim on your phone.
Set your travel eSim as the default for mobile data and turn on data roaming. Keep your UK Sim active if you still need calls and texts, but turn roaming off.
Try restarting your phone (you'll be surprised how often this works). But if not, you'll need to contact your eSim provider if you run into any issues.
An eSim (embedded Sim) is a digital Sim built into your phone, so you don't need a physical card. A travel eSim lets you buy a local or regional data plan for the country you're visiting, without swapping your usual UK Sim. You install it via an app or QR code before or during your trip.
Most travel eSims are data-only, meaning they don't include a UK phone number for calls or texts – they're designed purely for getting online. Availability and pricing vary by provider and destination, so it's worth comparing options.
Usually not. Most travel eSims are data-only, giving you mobile internet but no traditional calls, texts or new phone number. For most travellers, this is fine as apps such as WhatsApp, FaceTime and Skype let you call and message over data.
A few providers offer eSims with calls and texts, or as an add-on, so check the plan details before buying. Your existing UK number can usually still receive texts and calls if you keep your UK Sim active alongside the eSim.
Yes. WhatsApp, along with iMessage, FaceTime and Signal, works over data or Wi-Fi rather than traditional phone networks, so it functions normally on a data-only eSim. You can send messages and make calls as usual.
WhatsApp is linked to your phone number, not your Sim, so your friends and family will still reach you on your usual number even when using the eSim for data.
Yes, if your phone supports dual Sim functionality, which most eSim-compatible phones do. This means you can keep your UK number active for calls/texts, while your eSim handles data abroad – often much cheaper than roaming.
You'll need to adjust settings so data uses the eSim, not your UK Sim, to avoid roaming charges.
Install your eSim before you travel, ideally while on Wi-Fi. Downloading it usually needs an internet connection. You can install it ahead of time and activate later, or activate straight away if the plan doesn't have a fixed start date – this varies by provider, so do check its own instructions.
Leaving installation until you're abroad without Wi-Fi can cause problems.
It depends on the provider. Some plans allow top-ups via its app or website, others require you to buy a new plan. Check the providers instructions or FAQ’s before you buy.
Many providers offer regional or multi-country plans (eg, Europe, Asia), which can save hassle compared with buying separate eSims. Coverage varies by provider, so always check the full country list.
Our tool doesn’t currently compare regional eSims, but we’re working on adding them.
Yes – but only if you set it up correctly. Installing an eSim isn't enough. You’ll need to switch off data roaming on your UK Sim in your phones settings and ensure your phone uses the eSim for data while abroad. If data roaming remains active on your UK Sim, you could still be charged.
First, check you're on Wi-Fi for setup, your phone is unlocked and supports eSims, and that you've entered activation details correctly. Restart your phone, toggle the eSim off/on, or manually select the network. If it still doesn't work, contact the provider. Keep proof of purchase in case you need a refund.
Social tariffs
We'll include special social tariffs in your results that are offered to those on certain benefits - do check eligibility criteria with the provider as it varies by firm.