A travel eSIM is a data plan you download onto your phone instead of inserting a plastic SIM card. It works if your phone supports eSIM and is not locked to one network, you can install it at home before you fly, and your usual SIM can stay on for calls and texts while the eSIM handles data. This guide uses Airalo's help pages, checked on 11 October 2026, since Airalo is the eSIM store we list on Savooh.
Does your phone support eSIM?
The quickest test, according to Airalo's device compatibility page: if your phone's settings offer an option to add an eSIM, the phone supports it.
| Phone | Where to look | Option name |
|---|---|---|
| iPhone | Settings, then Cellular or Mobile | Add eSIM |
| Samsung Galaxy | Settings, then SIM Manager | Add eSIM |
| Google Pixel | Settings, then SIMs | Download a new eSIM |
For iPhones there is a regional catch. Airalo's iPhone help article says models sold in mainland China, Hong Kong and Macao are likely not eSIM-compatible. To check, open Settings, General, About, and tap the model number until it shows a code starting with A, then compare it with Apple's model list. It also notes that some countries sell models without eSIM and that a carrier can disable eSIM on a device, so a phone bought abroad or second-hand deserves the check.
Is your phone unlocked?
A phone locked to one operator can only use that operator's SIMs, so it cannot use a travel eSIM. On an iPhone, go to Settings, General, About and look at Carrier Lock: "No SIM restrictions" means it is unlocked. On Android, check the network settings or ask your operator. Airalo also says its app may not work on jailbroken or rooted phones, though you can buy an eSIM from another device.
How it works, step by step
- Buy the pack for the country or region you are visiting, in the app or on the website.
- Install it over Wi-Fi. The eSIM downloads to your phone and appears as a second line.
- Check when validity starts. Airalo's validity page says most eSIMs activate when they connect to a supported network at your destination, while some activate at installation wherever you are. The activation policy is in the pack's additional information.
- Switch data to the eSIM when you land. Data roaming may need to be on for the eSIM line.
If your pack starts on connection at the destination, installing it a few days before the trip costs nothing and saves hunting for Wi-Fi at the airport.
Keep your home number for calls and texts
A data-only eSIM does not replace your number. Airalo's help article on calls and SMS explains the set-up: keep your main line on and set it as the default for calls and SMS, and choose the eSIM for mobile data.
- iPhone: Settings, Cellular. Turn on the main line, set it as Default Voice Line, and pick the eSIM for Cellular Data.
- Samsung: Settings, Connections, SIM card manager. Calls and SMS on the main line, mobile data on the eSIM.
- Pixel: Settings, Network and Internet, SIMs. Calls and SMS preference on the main line, data on the eSIM.
One warning from the same page: depending on your home operator, you may need data roaming on, and that can create roaming charges on your main line. Ask your operator before you travel, especially if bank codes arrive by SMS while you are away.
Data only, or a number too?
Each Airalo pack shows a plan type. "Data Only" packs have no phone number, and calls go through apps such as WhatsApp, Telegram or Signal. Packs labelled "Data, Voice and Text" include a number; Airalo gives its Discover+ global eSIM as an example, with a +1 number. Calls and texts on local packages only work within that country, according to Airalo's calls and texts article.
Hotspot and top-ups
Personal hotspot works if your device and the network support it. Some eSIMs need a hotspot APN, which appears in the installation details. If you run low on data, rechargeable eSIMs can be topped up from My eSIMs in the app. If the pack is not rechargeable, you buy a new eSIM.
eSIM or your operator's roaming?
| Travel eSIM | Home operator roaming | |
|---|---|---|
| Your number | Stays on your main line; the eSIM adds data | Works as usual |
| Set-up | Install before you fly | Add a roaming pack to your line |
| Payment | Airalo charges in currencies such as US dollars; your bank converts | Billed in your local currency |
| Phone needed | eSIM-capable and unlocked | Any phone on your line |
Compare the price of the data you need for the trip on both, and add any foreign transaction fee your card charges on a dollar payment.
Paying less for an Airalo eSIM
Code ADM34 takes 10% off eligible Airalo purchases in Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Kuwait and Egypt, last checked by Savooh on 30 September 2026. Orders that use it do not earn Airmoney cashback. Our comparison of ADM34 and Airmoney works out which saves more. The code is on our Airalo pages for Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Kuwait and Egypt, or go to Airalo through our link. Savooh may earn a commission if you buy through this link; your price is the same.
Questions travellers ask
Can I use an eSIM and my normal SIM at the same time?
Yes, on phones that support it. Keep the main line for calls and SMS and set the eSIM for mobile data.
When should I install a travel eSIM?
Before you fly, over Wi-Fi, if the pack activates on connection at your destination. Check the activation policy first, because some packs start at installation.
Why does my iPhone not show Add eSIM?
It may be a model sold in mainland China, Hong Kong or Macao, or it may be locked to a carrier. Check the model number and the Carrier Lock field in Settings.
Does a travel eSIM give me a phone number?
Only if the plan type includes voice and text. Data-only packs have no number, and you call over apps.
