What happens if I run out of data?

Most providers let you top up through their app. Some automatically offer renewal options. You can also buy a new plan if needed.

Can I still receive calls and texts on my home number?

Yes, if you keep your home SIM active. Incoming calls and texts work normally. Outgoing calls will use your home carrier's international rates unless you use messaging apps.

Do I need to unlock my phone?

No, eSIMs work on locked phones. But if you're traveling to a country where your eSIM provider doesn't have coverage, you'll need an unlocked phone to use a local physical SIM.

How to Use an eSIM for International Travel

An eSIM lets you add international data plans to your phone without swapping physical SIM cards. Buy a plan from providers like Airalo or Holafly before you travel, install it on your phone, and activate it when you land.

Check if your phone supports eSIM. Go to Settings > General > About on iPhone (look for Digital SIM) or Settings > Connections > SIM Manager on Android. iPhone XS and newer support eSIM. Most recent Samsung, Google Pixel, and other flagship Android phones do too.
Choose an eSIM provider. Airalo works in 190+ countries with plans from $4.50 for 1GB. Holafly offers unlimited data in 70+ countries starting at $19 for 5 days. Compare coverage and prices for your specific destination.
Buy and download your eSIM plan. Purchase through the provider's app or website. You'll get a QR code via email. Install it before you travel by scanning the QR code in your phone's cellular settings. Don't activate it yet.
Set up your phone for dual SIM. Keep your home SIM as primary for calls and texts. Set the eSIM as secondary for data only. Turn off data roaming on your home SIM to avoid charges.
Activate when you arrive. Turn on the eSIM line in your cellular settings once you land. Most plans activate automatically when they detect the local network. Check that data is flowing through the eSIM, not your home carrier.

What happens if I run out of data?: Most providers let you top up through their app. Some automatically offer renewal options. You can also buy a new plan if needed.
Can I still receive calls and texts on my home number?: Yes, if you keep your home SIM active. Incoming calls and texts work normally. Outgoing calls will use your home carrier's international rates unless you use messaging apps.
Do I need to unlock my phone?: No, eSIMs work on locked phones. But if you're traveling to a country where your eSIM provider doesn't have coverage, you'll need an unlocked phone to use a local physical SIM.