Foldable phones and eSIM: what savvy autumn travellers need to know

Autumn travel and mobile connectivity: why it’s not one-size-fits-all

October brings pumpkin spice and crowded airports – and if you’re heading for a long weekend in Barcelona or a family break in Tokyo, your phone’s adaptability matters more than you might think. In some cities, like New York, network congestion hits a peak around school holidays; in others, like Athens or Mykonos, spotty coverage can make even the snazziest device feel like a brick if you’re relying on a single provider. I once lost half a day of photos in Seoul after my SIM card glitched mid-transfer – a reminder that even tech journalists get caught out!

What’s striking is how quickly eSIM coverage is improving in places popular for autumn getaways. Japan’s major networks – NTT Docomo, SoftBank, and au – have all boosted eSIM support this year, but their plans and compatibility quirks differ. Meanwhile, in the US, most new foldables work with digital SIMs, but some carrier-locked models still snub international eSIM plans. I wish I had a pound for every time a reader’s messaged me from JFK, frustrated by a device that ‘should’ work but won’t.

Do foldable phones really support eSIM?

Here’s where things get a bit technical – and yes, even as someone who reviews gadgets for a living, I double-check every time I switch phones. While the big names (Samsung Galaxy Z Fold series, Flip models, and the Huawei Mate X line) have mostly jumped on the eSIM bandwagon, not every variant is equal. For instance, the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold5 supports eSIM in its European and US versions, but the models sold in some Asian markets are physical SIM only. The Huawei Mate X3 I tested in Singapore refused to play ball with eSIM no matter what I tried.

If you’re curious whether your device is eSIM-ready, Graba SIM has a compatibility checker that’s up to date for 2025’s roster of phones – worth bookmarking before you book flights, in my view. For more on the latest, see this guide to eSIM-compatible phones in 2025.

The practical perks of eSIM on the road

Installation, the start of validity and connection to a network are separate steps. Timing varies by product and conditions; follow the selected plan’s instructions. Usage readings come from the supplier and may be delayed. Refresh requests the latest available reading; check its measurement timestamp.

A thought for the autumn holiday crowd: with city breaks and half-term trips, the flexibility to buy or swap plans on the fly is invaluable. Plans start from as little as £5/$7/€6 for several destinations. Browse all eSIM plans here or use the plan finder wizard if you want a tailored fit.

Step-by-step: how to set up eSIM on your foldable phone

1. Check your model
   Go to your phone’s settings, select ‘About phone’, and find the model number. Use Graba SIM’s compatibility tool to double-check.
2. Buy a plan
   Pick your country or region on Graba SIM’s browse page. Popular autumn destinations like Japan, the US, and Spain have multiple options.
3. Receive your eSIM QR code
   You’ll get a QR sent to your email – keep it handy or print it out if you’re a paper fan like me.
4. Activate eSIM
   Installation, the start of validity and connection to a network are separate steps. Timing varies by product and conditions; follow the selected plan’s instructions.
5. Monitor and manage
   Use Data Pulse or home screen widgets to track data. Switch plans if needed (especially useful for multi-country autumn trips).

For more troubleshooting and walk-throughs, see the autumn adventurer’s guide to checking device compatibility.

Local travel tips: autumn in the world’s eSIM hotspots

How do foldable phones compare for eSIM?

Frequently Asked Questions