How to Install a Travel eSIM: Step-by-Step Guide for UK Travellers
Buying a travel eSIM is usually straightforward. But once the confirmation email arrives, many travellers have the same question:
What do I actually do with it?
Unlike a traditional SIM card, there is nothing to insert into your phone. An eSIM is installed digitally, usually using a QR code, an app or activation details supplied by your eSIM provider.
The process normally takes only a few minutes, but there are some important choices to make along the way — particularly if you want to keep your normal UK SIM active for calls and texts while using your travel eSIM for mobile data abroad.
In this guide, we'll explain how to install a travel eSIM, when to install it, how the process works on iPhone and Android, and how to avoid some of the most common setup mistakes.
Quick Answer: How Do You Install a Travel eSIM?
The exact process varies slightly depending on your phone and eSIM provider, but generally you will:
Buy an eSIM plan for the country or region you're visiting.
Receive your installation details, often as a QR code or through the provider's app.
Open your phone's mobile or cellular settings.
Choose the option to add an eSIM.
Scan the QR code or follow your provider's installation instructions.
Give the new eSIM a recognisable name, such as Travel or the destination you're visiting.
Choose which SIM should be used for mobile data.
Check your data roaming settings for the travel eSIM.
Keep your normal UK SIM configured appropriately if you want to continue receiving calls and texts.
One important point is that installing an eSIM and activating the travel plan are not always the same thing.
With many travel eSIMs, you can install the eSIM before leaving the UK and the plan will not begin until it first connects to a supported network at your destination.
However, this varies between providers and plans. Some plans may start when the eSIM is installed or activated.
Always check the activation policy for the particular eSIM you've purchased before installing it. - When Should I Activate My eSIM?
Before You Install a Travel eSIM
There are a few things worth checking before you start.
1. Make Sure Your Phone Supports eSIM
Not every smartphone supports eSIM technology, and support can vary between models and markets.
Recent iPhones, Google Pixel phones, Samsung Galaxy devices and a growing number of other smartphones support eSIM, but don't assume yours does simply because it is relatively new.
Check compatibility before purchasing your travel plan.
2. Make Sure Your Phone Isn't Network Locked
A phone that is locked to a particular mobile network may prevent you from using an eSIM supplied by another provider.
Most UK phones bought SIM-free will already be unlocked, and UK mobile operators have been prohibited from selling locked handsets since December 2021.
However, if you're using an older handset, it's worth checking before travelling.
3. Have a Reliable Internet Connection
Installing an eSIM normally requires an internet connection.
Your home Wi-Fi is therefore one of the easiest places to complete the setup.
Trying to install your eSIM after you've landed, while relying on unfamiliar airport Wi-Fi, can add unnecessary complication to the start of your trip.
4. Keep Your Installation Details Available
Depending on the provider, you may receive:
A QR code
An installation link
Setup details by email
Instructions within the provider's app
Manual activation information
Keep these available until you're confident the eSIM has been installed successfully.
If your QR code has arrived on the same phone you're installing the eSIM onto, don't worry — many providers offer alternative installation methods, and modern phones may also allow you to use a QR code stored on the device.
The exact method depends on your handset and eSIM provider.
Installing an eSIM Isn't the Same as Using It
This distinction is worth understanding before going any further.
Installation adds the eSIM profile to your phone.
Activation determines when your purchased travel plan actually starts.
Selecting the eSIM for mobile data tells your phone to use that connection for internet access.
These three things can happen at different times.
For example, you might install your travel eSIM at home several days before your holiday, leave your normal UK SIM handling your mobile service, and then switch mobile data to the travel eSIM when you arrive at your destination.
The important thing is to follow the activation instructions supplied with your particular plan.
Once the eSIM is installed, don't delete it simply because it isn't connecting while you're still in the UK.
A destination-specific travel eSIM may not connect until you reach a country covered by the plan.
Deleting an installed eSIM unnecessarily can cause problems because some eSIM profiles cannot simply be downloaded again using the original installation code.
For that reason, only remove an eSIM when you're certain you no longer need it or your provider specifically tells you to do so.
How to Install a Travel eSIM on iPhone
Installing a travel eSIM on an iPhone is normally a quick process.
The precise wording can vary slightly depending on your iPhone model and version of
iOS, but the usual route is:
Open Settings.
Tap Mobile Service or Cellular.
Select Add eSIM.
Choose the installation method provided by your eSIM company.
Follow the onscreen instructions to add the new mobile plan.
There are several ways your travel eSIM may be installed.
Installing an eSIM Using a QR Code
A QR code is one of the most common installation methods.
Your eSIM provider will normally display the QR code after purchase or send it to you by email.
On your iPhone:
Go to Settings → Mobile Service/Cellular → Add eSIM.
Select Use QR Code.
Scan the QR code supplied by your provider.
Follow the onscreen instructions.
Wait for the eSIM to be added to your iPhone.
If the QR code is displayed on another device — such as your laptop or tablet — you can simply point your iPhone camera at it during setup.
Depending on your iPhone and iOS version, you may also be able to install an eSIM from a QR code contained in an email, webpage or image on the phone itself.
Always follow the instructions supplied by your eSIM provider, as installation methods can differ.
Give Your Travel eSIM a Clear Name
Once the eSIM has been added, your iPhone may ask you to label your mobile plans.
Don't skip over this too quickly.
If your normal UK SIM and travel eSIM are simply called Primary and Secondary, it can become surprisingly easy to select the wrong one later.
Instead, give the travel eSIM an obvious label such as:
Travel
Holiday
USA
Europe
New Zealand
or the name of the eSIM provider.
You can then clearly distinguish between your normal UK mobile service and the eSIM you've purchased for your trip.
This becomes particularly useful when deciding which SIM should handle mobile data.
Which SIM Should You Use for Mobile Data?
This is one of the most important parts of setting up a travel eSIM.
The usual objective is:
Your UK SIM remains available for your normal number, while your travel eSIM handles mobile data abroad.
Once you're ready to use the travel eSIM, go into your iPhone's mobile settings and select the travel eSIM as your Mobile Data line.
You should also check whether your phone has an option allowing Mobile Data Switching.
If you're specifically trying to prevent your UK SIM from using expensive roaming data, allowing the phone to switch automatically between data connections may defeat the purpose of setting up a travel eSIM.
For most travellers using an eSIM specifically to control overseas data costs, it is therefore worth understanding exactly which line has been selected for mobile data before you leave the UK.
Should Data Roaming Be Turned On for a Travel eSIM?
Often, yes.
This initially sounds counter-intuitive.
We're used to being told to turn data roaming off when travelling abroad to avoid unexpected charges.
But many travel eSIMs work by connecting to partner mobile networks in the country you're visiting. As a result, the travel eSIM may need Data Roaming switched on before it can provide an internet connection.
The important distinction is which SIM you're changing the setting for.
You may therefore have:
UK SIM → Data roaming OFF
Travel eSIM → Data roaming ON
That allows the travel eSIM to connect to its supported overseas network while helping prevent your normal UK SIM from using roaming data.
However, always follow the instructions supplied with your particular eSIM. Providers can configure their services differently.
What Happens to Your Normal UK Number?
Installing a travel eSIM does not normally mean giving up your existing UK SIM.
On a compatible dual-SIM phone, both can usually remain installed.
That can be particularly useful because your normal UK number may still be needed for:
Receiving calls
Receiving text messages
Banking verification codes
Two-factor authentication
WhatsApp and other services already associated with your number
Your travel eSIM can then be used primarily for mobile data.
However, keeping your UK SIM active does not automatically mean using it abroad is free.
Your UK network's roaming charges can still apply to calls, texts and data depending on your contract and destination.
Check your UK mobile provider's roaming terms before travelling.
Be Careful With Your Default Voice Line
Your iPhone may also ask which SIM you want to use as your default voice line.
If your travel eSIM is data-only — as many travel eSIMs are — it may not provide a traditional telephone number or support normal mobile calls and SMS messages.
In that situation, your existing UK SIM can remain your voice line while the travel eSIM handles mobile data.
This gives you a setup that might look like:
Calls and SMS: UK SIM
Mobile data: Travel eSIM
UK SIM data roaming: OFF
Travel eSIM data roaming: ON, where required by the provider
That separation is one of the biggest advantages of using a travel eSIM.
You don't have to remove your normal SIM card or change your telephone number simply because you want a different source of mobile data while you're abroad.
Check Everything Before You Travel
Once installation is complete, don't assume everything needs to connect immediately.
A destination-specific eSIM may show No Service, Inactive or a similar status while you're still in the UK.
That does not necessarily mean something has gone wrong.
Before travelling, check that:
The travel eSIM appears in your iPhone's mobile settings.
You've given it a recognisable label.
You understand when the plan activates.
You know whether Data Roaming needs to be enabled for that eSIM.
You know which SIM you'll use for mobile data after arrival.
Your UK SIM's roaming settings are configured as you want them.
You still have access to the provider's installation and troubleshooting instructions.
Then, when you arrive at your destination, you should only need to make the final changes required by your particular eSIM plan.
How to Install a Travel eSIM on Android
Installing a travel eSIM on an Android phone follows much the same principle as on an iPhone, but there is one important difference:
Android settings are not identical across every manufacturer.
Samsung Galaxy and Google Pixel phones, for example, use slightly different menu structures. Other manufacturers may use different terminology again.
The exact screens can also change with Android and manufacturer software updates, so treat the steps below as a guide and follow the instructions supplied by your eSIM provider where they differ.
How to Install a Travel eSIM on a Samsung Galaxy
On a compatible Samsung Galaxy phone, the usual route is:
Open Settings.
Select Connections.
Tap SIM manager.
Select Add eSIM.
Choose the appropriate installation option.
Follow the onscreen instructions to add your travel eSIM.
If your provider has supplied a QR code, Samsung allows compatible devices to scan it during the installation process.
Once the eSIM has been installed, it should appear alongside your existing SIM in SIM manager.
Give the new eSIM a recognisable name if your device allows it.
Something simple such as Travel, Holiday, or the name of your destination makes it much easier to identify the correct SIM later.
How to Install a Travel eSIM on a Google Pixel
On a compatible Google Pixel, the route is usually through the phone's network settings.
Depending on the version of Android installed, you will generally:
Open Settings.
Select Network & internet.
Choose SIMs.
Select the option to Add SIM or Add eSIM.
Choose the option to set up an eSIM.
Scan the QR code or follow the installation method supplied by your provider.
Complete the onscreen setup.
Once installed, the travel eSIM should appear alongside your existing mobile connection.
Again, giving it an obvious name can prevent confusion when you later decide which SIM should provide mobile data.
What About Other Android Phones?
A growing number of Android manufacturers offer eSIM-compatible phones.
The precise menu names vary, but you're generally looking for settings containing terms such as:
SIM
SIM manager
Mobile network
Network & internet
Connections
Add eSIM
Download SIM
Add mobile plan
If you cannot find an eSIM option, don't assume the feature is simply hidden somewhere in the settings.
Your particular phone model or regional version may not support eSIM.
Check the manufacturer's specifications before purchasing a travel plan.
Installing an Android eSIM Using a QR Code
QR codes are one of the most common ways of installing travel eSIMs on Android devices.
Your provider may send the code by email, display it after purchase or make it available through its app or website.
When your phone asks you to scan the eSIM QR code:
Display the code on another screen where possible.
Use your phone's eSIM setup screen to scan it.
Confirm that you want to download or add the mobile plan.
Allow the installation to complete.
Check that the new eSIM appears in your SIM or network settings.
Don't repeatedly scan the same QR code if something appears to go wrong.
Some eSIM installation codes are designed for one-time use. If the installation fails, check the provider's instructions before deleting the profile or attempting to install it again.
Which SIM Should Handle Mobile Data on Android?
As with an iPhone, the usual objective is to use:
Your UK SIM for your existing telephone number
and
Your travel eSIM for mobile data abroad.
Android phones that support dual SIM generally allow you to select which connection should provide:
Mobile data
Calls
SMS messages
The terminology varies between manufacturers.
Once you reach your destination and are ready to use the travel plan, check that the travel eSIM has been selected for mobile data.
If your phone offers automatic data switching between SIMs, consider whether you actually want it enabled.
If the purpose of buying the eSIM is to prevent your UK SIM from using expensive roaming data, automatic switching back to your UK connection may be something you want to avoid.
Should Data Roaming Be On or Off on Android?
Many travel eSIMs require Data Roaming to be switched ON for the travel eSIM.
This is because the eSIM may connect through a partner mobile network at your destination.
At the same time, you may want:
UK SIM → Data roaming OFF
Travel eSIM → Data roaming ON
This helps prevent your normal UK SIM from using roaming data while allowing the travel eSIM to connect as intended.
But don't treat this as a universal rule.
Always check the instructions for the eSIM plan you've purchased, because providers can configure their services differently.
Don't Delete the eSIM if It Doesn't Connect in the UK
This is particularly important if you install your eSIM before travelling.
A destination-specific eSIM may not connect to a network while you're still at home.
That does not necessarily mean the installation has failed.
If the eSIM appears correctly within your phone's SIM settings, check your provider's activation instructions before doing anything else.
Avoid deleting the eSIM simply to try installing it again.
Some installation QR codes cannot be reused, and removing a correctly installed profile can turn a perfectly normal situation into a genuine setup problem.
iPhone or Android: The Principle Is the Same
Although the menus look different, the basic travel eSIM setup is remarkably similar:
Install the eSIM → identify it clearly → understand when it activates → select it for mobile data → configure roaming correctly.
The most important thing is not memorising a particular sequence of menu options.
It's understanding which SIM is doing what.
Before you start using mobile data abroad, you should be able to answer three questions:
Which SIM is providing my mobile data?
Is data roaming configured correctly on that SIM?
Could my UK SIM still use roaming data unexpectedly?
If you know the answers to those three questions, you're far less likely to return home to an unexpected roaming bill.
QR Code, App or Manual Installation: Which Method Should You Use?
Not every travel eSIM is installed in exactly the same way.
Depending on your provider and smartphone, you may be offered several installation methods.
QR Code Installation
This is one of the most common options.
After purchasing your eSIM, the provider supplies a QR code which contains the information your phone needs to download the eSIM profile.
You open the Add eSIM option on your phone and scan the code.
It's simple, but remember that some QR codes can only be used once. Don't delete a successfully installed eSIM unless you're certain you no longer need it.
Installation Through an App
Some travel eSIM providers allow compatible devices to install an eSIM directly through their app.
This can make the process particularly straightforward because the app guides you through the setup and may also show:
Your remaining data
Plan validity
Activation status
Top-up options
Installation instructions
Troubleshooting information
Follow the provider's instructions rather than trying to install the same eSIM separately using several different methods.
Manual Installation
If QR code or app installation isn't available, your provider may supply manual installation details.
These can include an activation code and other information which you enter into your phone's eSIM settings.
Manual installation can look more technical, but the principle is the same: you're downloading the eSIM profile supplied by your provider onto your phone.
Should You Install Your Travel eSIM Before Leaving the UK?
In many cases, yes.
Installing your travel eSIM while you're still at home has several advantages.
You have:
Reliable Wi-Fi
Time to follow the instructions properly
Access to another device if you need to display a QR code
Easier access to your provider's customer support
Time to resolve a problem before travelling
It can be considerably less stressful than trying to install an eSIM after landing at a busy airport.
However, there is one important caveat.
Check when your particular eSIM plan starts.
Some travel plans begin when the eSIM first connects to a supported network at your destination. Others may begin when the eSIM is installed or activated.
If you have purchased a plan lasting a fixed number of days, activating it too early could potentially use part of that validity period before your holiday has even started.
Always check the provider's activation policy before installation.
What Should You Do When You Arrive at Your Destination?
If you've installed the eSIM before travelling, getting connected after arrival should usually involve only a few checks.
Once you've landed:
Make sure the travel eSIM is switched on.
Select the travel eSIM for mobile data.
Enable Data Roaming on the travel eSIM if your provider requires it.
Check that your UK SIM is not being used for roaming data unexpectedly.
Allow the phone a little time to connect to a supported local network.
Your phone should then connect using the travel eSIM where coverage is available.
If it doesn't connect immediately, don't start deleting settings.
First check the instructions supplied by your eSIM provider.
Common Travel eSIM Installation Mistakes
Most eSIM problems are easier to prevent than fix.
Installing Without Checking Compatibility
Don't buy an eSIM simply because your phone is relatively new.
Check that your exact handset supports eSIM first.
Activating the Plan Too Early
Installation and activation aren't necessarily the same thing.
Understand when your plan's validity period begins before completing the setup.
Using the UK SIM for Mobile Data by Mistake
Installing a travel eSIM doesn't automatically guarantee that your phone will use it for data.
Check which SIM has actually been selected for mobile data.
Leaving Automatic Data Switching Enabled
Some dual-SIM phones can automatically switch between available data connections.
That may be convenient at home, but it can undermine your attempt to control roaming costs if the phone switches back to your UK SIM abroad.
Forgetting Data Roaming on the Travel eSIM
Many travel eSIMs require roaming to be enabled because they connect through partner networks.
Turning roaming off on every SIM can therefore prevent the travel eSIM from working.
Leaving Roaming Enabled on the Wrong SIM
The opposite mistake can also happen.
If your UK SIM is still permitted to use roaming data, you could incur charges even though you've purchased a separate travel eSIM.
Deleting an eSIM Because It Says No Service
A destination-specific eSIM may not connect while you're still in the UK.
That doesn't necessarily mean anything is wrong.
Deleting it and attempting to reinstall it can create a bigger problem, particularly if the original QR code cannot be reused.
My Travel eSIM Isn't Working — What Should I Check?
If your travel eSIM doesn't connect after you arrive, work through the basics before changing anything major.
1. Is the eSIM Switched On?
Check that the travel eSIM is enabled in your phone's SIM settings.
2. Is It Selected for Mobile Data?
Your phone may still be trying to use your normal UK SIM.
Check which SIM has been selected as the mobile data connection.
3. Is Data Roaming Configured Correctly?
If your provider requires roaming to be enabled, make sure it is switched on for the travel eSIM.
4. Have You Reached a Covered Destination?
A regional eSIM only works in the countries included within its plan.
Check that your current country is covered.
5. Has the Plan Activated?
Check your provider's app, website or confirmation information to establish whether the plan is active.
6. Does the Provider Require Specific Network or APN Settings?
Some eSIMs configure these automatically, while others may require additional settings.
Follow the instructions supplied by your provider rather than guessing.
7. Try Airplane Mode
Turning Airplane Mode on briefly and then switching it off again can prompt the phone to reconnect to available mobile networks.
If the problem continues, contact your eSIM provider before deleting the installed profile.
Can You Still Use WhatsApp with a Travel eSIM?
Usually, yes.
Installing a travel eSIM does not normally change the telephone number associated with your existing WhatsApp account.
If WhatsApp is already registered to your UK number, you can generally continue using it over the internet connection supplied by your travel eSIM.
The same principle applies to many internet-based messaging and calling services.
This is one of the reasons data-only travel eSIMs can work well for travellers who mainly communicate through apps rather than conventional international telephone calls.
Can You Keep Your UK SIM Switched On?
Yes, on a compatible dual-SIM phone.
You may want to keep your UK SIM active so that your normal number remains available for calls, SMS messages and verification codes.
Your travel eSIM can then provide your mobile data.
But remember: keeping your UK SIM active does not make roaming charges disappear.
Your UK network may still charge for calls, texts or other roaming activity depending on your contract and destination.
Check your network's current roaming charges before travelling.
Travel eSIM Setup Checklist
Before leaving the UK, check that:
✓ Your phone supports eSIM.
✓ Your phone is unlocked where necessary.
✓ The travel eSIM appears in your phone's settings.
✓ You've given the travel eSIM a recognisable name.
✓ You know when the plan activates.
✓ You know which SIM should handle mobile data.
✓ You know whether Data Roaming needs to be enabled on the travel eSIM.
✓ You've checked the roaming settings on your UK SIM.
✓ You've saved your provider's setup and troubleshooting instructions.
✓ You haven't deleted the QR code or installation information prematurely.
A few minutes spent checking these settings at home can save a considerable amount of frustration after you arrive.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is It Difficult to Install a Travel eSIM?
Usually not. On a compatible smartphone, installation generally involves adding an eSIM through your mobile settings and scanning a QR code, using the provider's app or entering the supplied details manually.
Do I Need Wi-Fi to Install an eSIM?
You normally need an internet connection to download and install the eSIM profile. Installing it using reliable Wi-Fi before travelling can therefore be convenient.
Should I Install My eSIM Before I Fly?
Often, yes, but check the activation terms first. Some plans begin when they first connect at the destination, while others may start at installation or activation.
Can I Install an eSIM and Keep My Normal SIM?
Yes, provided your phone supports the appropriate dual-SIM configuration. Your UK SIM can remain available while the travel eSIM is used for mobile data.
Should Data Roaming Be On for My Travel eSIM?
Many travel eSIMs require Data Roaming to be enabled because they connect through partner networks. Follow the instructions supplied by your particular provider.
Should I Turn Data Roaming Off on My UK SIM?
If you're trying to prevent your UK SIM from using roaming data, this is usually sensible. Check your network's roaming terms and your phone's SIM settings before travelling.
Can I Use the Same eSIM QR Code Twice?
Not necessarily. Some eSIM installation codes are single-use. Don't delete an installed eSIM expecting to simply scan the original QR code again unless your provider confirms that you can.
Why Does My Travel eSIM Say No Service in the UK?
A destination-specific eSIM may not have access to a supported network in the UK. It may only connect once you arrive in a country covered by your plan.
Can I Use WhatsApp with a Data-Only Travel eSIM?
Usually, yes. WhatsApp works over an internet connection, so you can generally continue using the account associated with your existing telephone number while the travel eSIM provides the data connection.
Final Thoughts
Installing a travel eSIM sounds more technical than it usually is.
On most compatible smartphones, the process involves adding the eSIM through your mobile settings, following your provider's installation instructions and deciding which SIM should handle your mobile data.
The most important part isn't scanning the QR code.
It's understanding what happens afterwards.
Know which SIM is providing your data, check the roaming settings on both connections, understand when your travel plan activates and don't delete an installed eSIM simply because it isn't connecting before you've reached your destination.
Whenever possible, complete the installation while you still have reliable Wi-Fi and plenty of time before travelling.
Then, when you arrive, getting online should be a matter of switching to the correct connection rather than starting the entire setup process at the airport.
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