eSIM explained
What is an eSIM? A plain-English guide
An eSIM is a SIM card built into your phone. Here is how it works, how it compares with a normal SIM, and how to use one when you travel.
How an eSIM works
Every phone needs a SIM to join a mobile network. A traditional SIM is a small plastic card. An eSIM is a chip already inside your phone that can store one or more mobile plans. When you buy an eSIM plan, you get a QR code; scanning it downloads the plan to your phone. There is nothing to post, collect or swap.
How much data will you need?
You’ll need about 5 GB.
Find a planeSIM vs physical SIM
| eSIM | Physical SIM | |
|---|---|---|
| How you get it | Download by QR code | Shop or post |
| Setup | A few minutes, before you travel | Swap the card, keep your old one safe |
| Keep your normal number | Yes, alongside your normal SIM | Only with a dual-SIM phone |
| Lose or damage it | Nothing to lose | Small card, easy to lose |
| Phone support | Most recent phones, unlocked | Every phone with a SIM tray |
Using an eSIM when you travel
- Check your phone supports eSIM and is unlocked on the compatibility page.
- Pick a plan with enough data for your trip; the plan finder can help.
- Install it at home on Wi-Fi with our iPhone or Android guide.
- When you land, turn on data roaming for the eSIM and leave it off for your normal SIM.
- No signal? Follow our eSIM not working abroad fixes, or use live chat in the Graba SIM app, available 24/7.
Questions UK travellers ask
What is an eSIM?
An eSIM is a SIM card built into your phone. Instead of inserting a plastic card, you download a mobile plan by scanning a QR code.
Does my phone support eSIM?
Most iPhones from the XS onwards and many recent Android phones do, but the phone must also be unlocked. Check our compatibility page for your exact model.
Can I use an eSIM and my normal SIM together?
Yes. Most eSIM phones can use two lines at once, so you can keep your normal number for calls and texts while using a travel eSIM for data.
How much data do I need for travel?
About 0.5 GB a day for maps and messages, around 1 GB a day with social media, and 2 GB a day or more for video or hotspot use.
Is a travel eSIM worth it?
For most trips abroad, yes: it is usually cheaper than roaming, works as soon as you land, and you avoid hunting for a local SIM shop.