Common eSIM Mistakes to Avoid
Learn from others' experiences and avoid these pitfalls when using eSIMs for travel.
Not checking device compatibility before purchasing an eSIM
Potential Consequence:
Wasting money on an eSIM you can't use and being without connectivity when traveling.
Solution:
Always verify your device model supports eSIM technology. Check the manufacturer's website or your device settings for eSIM support before purchasing an eSIM plan.
Activating your eSIM too early
Potential Consequence:
Many eSIMs start their validity period upon activation, not first use. If activated days before your trip, you might lose valuable days of service.
Solution:
Wait to activate your eSIM until just before you need it, ideally right before departure or upon arrival at your destination.
Forgetting to turn off data roaming for your home SIM
Potential Consequence:
Incurring expensive roaming charges from your home carrier despite having an eSIM for travel.
Solution:
After activating your travel eSIM, disable data roaming for your physical SIM in your device settings. Also consider setting your travel eSIM as the primary data line.
Not downloading essential apps before traveling
Potential Consequence:
Struggling to download necessary apps (maps, translation, etc.) on slow or limited data connections abroad.
Solution:
Before departing, download all essential apps including offline maps, translation tools, and your eSIM provider's app if they have one.
Buying too little data for your trip
Potential Consequence:
Running out of data mid-trip and having to purchase additional plans, often at less favorable rates.
Solution:
Estimate your data needs generously, considering activities like navigation, photo uploads, video calls, and social media use. Many providers offer top-ups, but initial packages usually provide better value.
Not setting up data limits and tracking
Potential Consequence:
Using up your data allowance too quickly without realizing it.
Solution:
Set up data usage warnings in your phone settings. Many eSIM providers also have apps that allow you to monitor your usage. Consider using data-saving features in apps.
Assuming all features will work the same as your home carrier
Potential Consequence:
Being unable to make calls or send SMS messages when needed, as some eSIM plans are data-only.
Solution:
Carefully read the features of your eSIM plan. If you need voice calling or SMS, ensure your plan includes these services or have alternative apps ready (WhatsApp, Signal, etc.).
Not saving your eSIM QR code or activation details
Potential Consequence:
Being unable to reinstall your eSIM if you need to reset your phone or if the profile gets corrupted.
Solution:
Save a screenshot of your QR code or store the activation email in an accessible location. Some providers allow you to redownload these details from your account.
Ignoring APN settings
Potential Consequence:
Having an activated eSIM but no data connection because the Access Point Name (APN) settings are incorrect.
Solution:
If your data doesn't work despite having signal, check if you need to configure APN settings. These details should be provided by your eSIM provider.
Not having a backup connectivity option
Potential Consequence:
Being completely without internet if your eSIM encounters issues.
Solution:
Have a backup plan such as knowing locations of reliable public WiFi, carrying a physical SIM as backup, or having another device with connectivity options.