Staying connected to the internet while traveling, especially if solo, is highly crucial for safety, navigation, and communication. That\u2019s why I personally recommend downloading an eSIM<\/strong><\/a> for instant connectivity; no extra roaming charges or physical SIM swap hassle. But if you\u2019re new to this, you might be wondering how to install an eSIM on your phone, or if it\u2019s even possible.<\/p>\n Installing and activating an eSIM is pretty straightforward, although it slightly varies depending on your provider and device. But don\u2019t worry; I\u2019ll walk you through the steps you need to follow to have internet on your phone while traveling without having to subscribe to buy a SIM card from a foreign carrier.\u00a0<\/p>\n This post may contain affiliate links, which means I will earn a small commission if you purchase through my link at no extra cost to you. Please see\u00a0full disclosure<\/strong><\/a>\u00a0for more information.<\/em><\/p>\n \u200b\u200bAn eSIM, which is short for \u201cembedded SIM\u201d, is a digital form of the traditional physical SIM card. So, instead of swapping SIM cards, an eSIM can be installed on your smartphone via software, providing you with network connectivity.<\/p>\n As I mentioned earlier, how to install an eSIM might vary slightly depending on the device and the app you\u2019re using. I\u2019ll break down the process for different devices for you. And if you\u2019re using different apps, all you have to do is follow the instructions on the app, which will be pretty similar to the steps below.\u00a0<\/p>\n The same steps and installation methods are applicable here as well, just with different settings paths.\u00a0<\/p>\n Just like the iPhone, make sure you add your new eSIM and set it as the primary line and wait for it to activate. Don\u2019t forget to turn off your main line completely to avoid accidental charges.\u00a0<\/p>\n You\u2019ll simply tap on \u201cinstall eSIM\u201d and follow the instructions on the app. You\u2019ll also need to adjust a few things in your cellular\/mobile data settings to make sure you properly activate the eSIM and to be able to access data. All the instructions will be clear on the app.\u00a0<\/p>\n You can generate a QR code that can be scanned from another device or printed on paper. You\u2019ll also need to adjust your cellular\/mobile data settings.<\/p>\n In this case, you\u2019ll enter details manually. You\u2019ll copy the eSIM\u2019s SM-DP+Address and activation code into your settings, and adjust the rest of the settings as previously mentioned.\u00a0<\/p>\n As I clarified before, you will need to adjust the settings to properly set up your eSIM.\u00a0<\/p>\n As I mentioned before, how to install an eSIM slightly differs from one provider to another, but don\u2019t worry, the detailed instructions will be available on each app. Here are the top eSIM providers in my opinion.<\/p>\n Ideal for:<\/em><\/strong> budget travelers and first-time eSIM users.<\/em><\/p>\n With affordable plans in 200+ destinations around the world, Airalo<\/strong><\/a> is hands down one of the most popular choices for travelers. Especially if you\u2019re new to using eSIMs, as their setup and installation are super simple. So, if you\u2019re looking for a budget-friendly option and instant activation, Airalo has one of the biggest selections of local, regional, and global plans.\u00a0<\/p>\n Personally, it\u2019s my go-to eSIM; I\u2019ve shared my full and honest experience with Airalo in this read<\/strong><\/a>.<\/p>\n Ideal for:<\/em><\/strong> frequent travelers and those who enjoy extra luxurious benefits.<\/em><\/p>\n The basic Jetpac<\/strong><\/a> package offers affordable data plans for occasional travelers. However, if you\u2019re constantly on the go and prefer some luxury for convenience, Jetpac\u2019s more premium packages offer perks worth considering. The JetFlex plan offers lounge access passes and fast-track passes as add-ons. Meanwhile, if you opt for a monthly JetPro subscription, you get 3 free lounge access passes for 3 months, and you could still pair those with add-ons.<\/p>\n Explore Jetpac plans HERE<\/strong><\/a>.<\/p>\n Ideal for:<\/em><\/strong> digital nomads who need high-speed internet.<\/em><\/p>\n If you\u2019re a digital nomad constantly on the go, a remote worker, or a business traveler, Nomad<\/a><\/strong> is what you\u2019re looking for. Nomad prioritizes speed and reliability, so you don\u2019t have to worry about connectivity issues and focus on work instead. Another plus is that Nomad\u2019s bigger data plans are pretty affordable in comparison to other providers.<\/p>\n Check out Nomad\u2019s plans HERE<\/a><\/strong>.<\/p>\n Ideal for:<\/em><\/strong> travelers who need a temporary working phone line.<\/em><\/p>\n Aside from regular eSIMs, Yesim<\/strong><\/a> also offers virtual phone numbers, which are great for long-term travelers and those who need to make calls without losing an arm and a leg for hefty roaming charges. This doesn\u2019t just allow you to make a receive calls, but it definitely comes in handy for OTPs and banking as well.\u00a0\u00a0<\/p>\n Ideal for:<\/em><\/strong> travelers who prioritize privacy and cybersecurity.<\/em><\/p>\n As Saily<\/a><\/strong> was developed by cybersecurity tycoon NordVPN, you can safely assume that privacy is their number one priority. If your concerns include unsafe networks, censorship, or monitoring, then Saily is the right choice for you.<\/p>\n Explore Saily\u2019s plans HERE<\/strong><\/a>.<\/p>\n Ideal for:<\/em><\/strong> budget travelers who prioritize flexibility.<\/em><\/p>\n You know how there are prepaid and postpaid plans for physical SIM cards? Now, Drimsim<\/a><\/strong>, unlike most other eSIM providers, works like a postpaid card. You pay for what you use. No packages, no expiration, no commitment, and no hidden fees. This makes it perfect for those traveling on a budget or travelers who don\u2019t want a commitment; you simply pay per MB\/GB.\u00a0<\/p>\n Explore Drimsim\u2019s rates HERE<\/strong><\/a>.<\/p>\n Yes, most of the newer smartphones allow you to download multiple eSIMs, but only 1 or 2 can be active at the same time, depending on your phone\u2019s model and specifications.\u00a0<\/p>\n This depends on your device, but generally, yes. You can use the physical SIM card to make calls or send and receive text messages, and use your eSIM for data. Just make sure you turn off the data roaming for your physical SIM card to avoid accidental charges. Also, bear in mind that your local telecom provider will still charge you roaming fees for incoming and outgoing calls as well as sending or receiving text messages.\u00a0<\/p>\n The basic knowledge of how to install an eSIM isn\u2019t always enough. Other potential problems may include, but are not limited to, incorrect network settings, device compatibility issues, poor network connectivity, or a need for a software update. Make sure to double-check all these potential issues, and if you fail to identify the problem, it\u2019s best if you reach out to your provider\u2019s customer support team.<\/p>\n No, you cannot reinstall a deleted eSIM unless your provider allows that, which is not common. Most eSIM plans are removed permanently from your device as soon as you delete them.<\/p>\n Installing an eSIM turned out to be easier than you thought it would be, right? Now that you know how to install an eSIM properly, you\u2019re ready to travel safely and smartly. Don\u2019t forget to grab my exclusive 10% discount<\/strong> from Airalo HERE<\/strong><\/a>.\u00a0<\/p>\n Travel (solo or not) isn\u2019t always rainbows and butterflies \u2013 things might go down south sometimes. You might fall ill or lose your luggage, and that\u2019s when you\u2019ll thank me for having your back covered with travel insurance.<\/p>\n SafetyWing offers different travel insurance packages, tailored to your needs, but their Nomad Insurance<\/a><\/strong> is my favorite option.<\/p>\n This travel medical insurance is perfect for frequent travelers. It covers lost checked luggage, travel delay, doctors, hospitals, and more. It even covers the COVID-19 emergency quarantine period if deemed necessary by a physician.<\/p>\n Explore SafetyWing\u2019s Nomad Insurance Essential<\/a><\/strong> and Complete<\/a><\/strong> plans now.<\/p>\n You might also like:<\/strong><\/p>\n Meanwhile, if you like my content and would like to see more of it, subscribe to my newsletter\u00a0<\/strong>here<\/em><\/strong><\/a>.<\/strong><\/p>\n Nadine is an Egyptian curly-head who decided to quit the norm because it just doesn\u2019t suit her. She ditched her 9-5 as a magazine editor to pursue her dream of becoming a full-time digital nomad and to inspire aspiring travelers to embark on their own solo adventures.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
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\nBut first, in case you don\u2019t know what\u2019s an eSIM\u2026<\/h2>\n
What You Need Before Installing an eSIM<\/h2>\n
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How to Install an eSIM (Step-by-Step)<\/h2>\n
How to Install an eSIM on iPhone<\/h3>\n
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How to Install an eSIM on Android (Samsung, Google Pixel, etc.)<\/h3>\n
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About Different Ways to Install an eSIM<\/h3>\n
Direct Installation \u2013 the easiest method for beginners<\/h4>\n
QR Code Activation \u2013 ideal for travelers who plan ahead<\/h4>\n
Manual Installation<\/h4>\n
After Installing: How to Set Up Your eSIM<\/h2>\n
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Tips to Avoid Common eSIM Installation Mistakes<\/h2>\n
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Best eSIM Providers for Travelers<\/h2>\n
#1 Airalo\u00a0<\/h3>\n
![\"How](\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/curlsenroute.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/airalo-graphic-1.jpeg?resize=640%2C306\")
GRAB A 10% DISCOUNT FROM AIRALO BY USING MY EXCLUSIVE PROMO CODE \u201cCURLSENROUTE<\/strong><\/a>\u201d AT CHECKOUT.<\/h4>\n
#2 Jetpac\u00a0<\/h3>\n
#3 Nomad\u00a0<\/h3>\n
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/curlsenroute.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Screenshot-2025-12-02-at-3.06.47-PM.png?resize=640%2C358\")
#4 Yesim\u00a0<\/h3>\n
![\"How](\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/curlsenroute.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Screenshot-2025-12-02-at-3.01.42-PM.png?resize=640%2C418\")
GRAB A 20% DISCOUNT FROM YESIM<\/strong><\/a> BY USING THIS EXCLUSIVE PROMO CODE \u201cFALLY20\u201d AT CHECKOUT \u2013 VALID UNTIL 31 DECEMBER, 2025.<\/h4>\n
#5 Saily<\/h3>\n
![\"How](\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/curlsenroute.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/Screenshot-2025-12-02-at-3.25.08-PM.png?resize=640%2C254\")
#6 Drimsim\u00a0<\/h3>\n
FAQs Other Than \u201cHow to Install an eSIM?\u201d<\/h2>\n
Can I install more than one eSIM?<\/h3>\n
Can I use an eSIM and a physical SIM at the same time?<\/h3>\n
![\"How](\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/curlsenroute.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/pexels-jacob-2102693-20805596.jpg?resize=640%2C427\")
Why isn\u2019t my eSIM working?<\/h3>\n
Can I reinstall a deleted eSIM?<\/h3>\n
In a nutshell\u2026<\/h2>\n
\nDon\u2019t Forget Your Travel Insurance!<\/h2>\n
OR REGISTER FOR FREE!<\/a><\/h5>\n
\nSharing is caring!<\/em><\/h3>\n
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/i0.wp.com\/curlsenroute.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/02\/Aswan-copy.jpg?resize=100%2C100&ssl=1\")
<\/div>\nRelated<\/em><\/h3>\n<\/p>\n<\/div>\n