If you land in a foreign country, are ready to explore, but your phone does not connect, or you have to cope with exorbitant roaming charges, switching to a local network will solve it. Using eSIM technology will help you get it while avoiding wasting time hunting for a SIM card. With eSIM technology, you can effortlessly switch between profiles in seconds, ensuring instant connectivity and no hassle. This article will show you how to switch eSIM profiles between international trips, saving you time, money, and stress on your trips.
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eSIM profiles are the digital counterparts of traditional SIM cards. Unlike physical SIMs, eSIM profiles store carrier information, network settings, and subscription plans directly on your device. This allows you to download, activate, and manage multiple profiles without the need to swap physical cards, making them a game-changer for international travelers.
Proper preparation is key to making the most of your eSIM profile while traveling abroad.
You need to confirm that your device supports eSIM technology and is unlocked for use with multiple carriers internationally.
See an updated list of popular eSIM-compatible devices here.
To verify, you can check your device’s specifications or visit the manufacturer’s website.
Selecting the right eSIM provider is crucial for getting reliable service and value for money. You should consider these factors when choosing an eSIM provider:
The top providers of travel eSIM are Gigago, Ubigi, Nomad, Holafly.
eSIM installation is quick and simple. You can do it via scanning a QR code provided by your eSIM provider (the easiest), or app integration (depending on the provider), or manual entry through your device settings (less common).
If you plan to use multiple eSIM profiles, name each profile clearly based on the country or provider (e.g., “Japan – Gigago”). This will make it easier to switch profiles during your trip.
Here is how you can efficiently switch eSIM profiles on both iPhone and Android devices.
Pro Tip: Name your profiles (e.g., “France – Gigago”) so you can easily identify them when switching.
The process of switching eSIM profiles on Android devices may vary slightly depending on the phone model, but here’s a general guide:
Pro Tip: You can keep one eSIM active for calls/messages (e.g., your home eSIM) while using a travel eSIM for mobile data.
If you travel frequently, you may get confused when managing multiple eSIM profiles. Here are some tips to make the process easier:
Pro Tip: Set up usage alerts on your device or within the provider’s app to prevent unexpected overage charges.
To solve this problem, you first need to check network settings to ensure the active eSIM profile set as the default for mobile data, then manually choose a stronger network through your device’s network settings. If none works, restart your device.
When there are switching delays, you should wait for a few minutes, even up to 30 minutes (activating time varies by phone model). If the new eSIM does not work, turn airplane mode on and off.
When delays persist, contact your eSIM provider for support. Do not delete the eSIM and reinstall without their consultation.
If there are coverage gaps, you can switch to another profile, or use WiFi hotspots instead. If issues persist, contact your eSIM provider for assistance.
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