Get eSIM
An eSIM (also called a virtual SIM) is a programmable chip built into a smartphone, tablet or smartwatch that connects to a mobile network. Unlike a physical SIM card, which requires a separate slot to be installed in your device, an eSIM is embedded in the phone and is carrier-independent. When you get an eSIM, it’s stored on the phone’s internal memory and activated by software. You can then buy and subscribe to a data plan for it. You can use as many eSIM profiles as your device supports, and you can change plans as often as you like.
You can buy an eSIM directly from a mobile operator, in their stores or online. You can also find them in other non-smartphone devices, such as tablets or smartwatches. The process is quick and easy. When you’re done, your eSIM will be displayed in your provider’s app or in Settings, Mobile/Cellular data. Some carriers will send you an eSIM activation code by email, while others require that you log in to their website to generate one.
To get eSIM, you need to be using a compatible smartphone. You can check the compatibility of your device here. The easiest way to get an eSIM is through your existing mobile operator. Most mobile operators support eSIMs, and you can usually purchase a prepaid e-SIM in their shops or online. It’s best to do this before you travel, as the e-SIM will typically be activated once you have arrived in your destination.
Where Do I Get eSIM?
Other providers also offer eSIMs, and some even support multiple eSIMs on your smartphone. The number of eSIMs supported on your device depends on the manufacturer and model, but you can usually find a list of supported smartphones on your provider’s website.
Some eSIMs are free to use, while others may have a nominal fee or may only be available on specific plans. It’s important to know whether your eSIM is free or not, and if it has an activation or expiry date, as this can affect your phone’s functionality. For example, Holafly offers a free e-SIM for select destinations. They have a great variety of global and regional plans that are competitively priced. Their plans are pre-paid, but they also offer monthly post-paid subscriptions in some countries.
Leisure travelers can benefit from eSIMs because they help them save on data roaming costs, stay connected to their loved ones and navigate new destinations with maps and travel guides. The Bytesim eSIM app helps leisure travelers monitor their data usage, so they don’t run out of data unexpectedly. Airhub has an extensive global network, and they are one of the few eSIM providers that offer monthly plans in all their supported countries. They have a user-friendly app and very competitive rates.