eSIM Guide for Tourists: Activation, Compatibility, and Benefits

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by Onederer

What is an eSIM?

An eSIM is a type of SIM card that is embedded directly into your mobile device, instead of being a removable card like traditional SIMs. "eSIM" stands for "Embedded Subscriber Identity Module."

Why use an eSIM?

eSIM technology offers several benefits, particularly for travelers, making it a preferred choice over traditional SIM cards. Here are the key advantages:

  • Cost-Effective: Activating an eSIM usually costs much less than standard roaming fees, helping you save money while traveling.
  • Seamless Experience: You can switch to a local carrier's tourist plan without the hassle of physically swapping out SIM cards. This provides a convenient and smooth transition.
  • Dual SIM Capability: With a compatible phone, you can use the eSIM for data services while keeping your original SIM active. This allows you to access local data rates and avoid high roaming charges, while still using your home number for calls and texts.

These benefits make eSIM an attractive option for travelers seeking both convenience and cost savings.

eSIM-Compatible Phones

BrandModelNotes
AppleiPhone 15, 15 Plus, 15 Pro, 15 Pro MaxNot Dual SIM
iPhone 14, Plus, Pro, Pro MaxNot Dual SIM
iPhone 13, 13 Pro, 13 Pro Max, 13 mini13 Pro not Dual SIM
iPhone 12, 12 Pro, 12 Pro Max, 12 mini12 Pro not Dual SIM
iPhone 11, 11 Pro, 11 Pro Max11 Pro not Dual SIM
iPhone SE (2020), SE (2022)
iPhone XS, XS MaxNot Dual SIM
iPhone XRNot Dual SIM
iPad Air (2014, 2019, 2020, 2022)
iPad Pro 11" (2018, 2020)
iPad Pro 12.9" (2015, 2017)
iPad Pro 10.5" (2017)
iPad Pro 9.7" (2016)
iPad 10.2" (2019, 2020, 2021)
iPad 9.7" (2016, 2017, 2018)
iPad mini 4 (2015), mini 3, mini (2019, 2021)
SamsungGalaxy A55, A54, A35
Galaxy S24, S24+, S24 Ultra
Galaxy S23, S23+, S23 Ultra, S23 FE
Galaxy S22 5G, S22+ 5G, S22 Ultra 5G
Galaxy S21 5G, S21+ 5G, S21 Ultra 5GUS versions not compatible with eSIM
Galaxy S20, S20 5G, S20+, S20+ 5G, S20 Ultra, S20 Ultra 5GUS versions of S20 and S20 FE 4G/5G not compatible with eSIM
Galaxy Note20, Note20 5G, Note20 Ultra 5GUS and Hong Kong versions of Note 20 Ultra not compatible with eSIM
Galaxy Xcover7
Galaxy Fold, Z Fold4, Z Fold3 5G, Z Fold2 5G
Galaxy Z Flip4, Z Flip3 5G, Z Flip, Z Flip 5GUS versions of Z Flip 5G not compatible with eSIM
GooglePixel 7, 7 Pro
Pixel 6, 6a, 6 Pro
Pixel 5, 5a 5G
Pixel 4, 4a, 4 XL, 4a 5G
Pixel 3, 3a, 3 XL, 3a XL
XiaomiXiaomi 13, 13 Lite, 13 Pro
Xiaomi 12T Pro
HuaweiHuawei P40, P40 ProNot including P40 Pro +
Huawei Mate40 Pro
SonySony Xperia 10 III Lite
Sony Xperia 10 IV
Sony Xperia 5 IV
Sony Xperia 1 IV

How to activate eSIM

Activating an eSIM is a quick process, usually taking about five minutes. When you purchase an eSIM package, you'll receive a QR code from the vendor within an hour. The activation steps differ slightly depending on whether you're using an iPhone or an Android device. Below are the instructions for each:

For iOS Devices:

  • QR Code Installation:
    1. Navigate to Settings > Cellular > Add eSIM.
    2. Select Use QR Code and scan the QR code.
    3. Tap Activate eSIM and then Continue.
    4. Choose the default network for Cellular Data. Ensure Allow Cellular Data Switching is off, Turn On This Line is enabled, and Data Roaming is on.
    5. If the network is incorrect, go to Network Selection and select the correct one.

For Android Devices:

  • QR Code Installation:
    1. Navigate to Settings > Network & internet > SIMs.
    2. Tap + to add a SIM, then select Download a SIM and tap Next.
    3. Scan the QR code, then tap Download.
    4. After "Download Complete" appears, return to Settings.

Trip.com eSIM: Cheap Price & Flexible Plans

Trip.com is committed to offering unbeatable prices on a wide range of eSIM plans to suit every traveler's needs. Whether you need just enough data for checking maps and emails or you're a power user streaming and sharing your photos, our competitively priced plans help you get the most bang for your buck.

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