How to set up an eSIM in 3 minutes (step-by-step)
Installing a travel eSIM is faster than buying a coffee. Here's the exact 3-minute flow, plus the one setting most people forget.
An eSIM is a digital SIM you install by scanning a QR code, with no plastic card and no shop visit. If your phone supports it, you can be connected abroad in minutes. Here's the whole process, from purchase to your first byte of data.
1. Buy and receive your QR code
Pick your destination and data plan, check out as a guest, and your eSIM QR code arrives by email, usually within minutes. We recommend doing this while you still have a stable connection (for most travelers, at home before departure).
2. Scan the QR code
On iPhone go to Settings → Cellular → Add eSIM, and on most Android phones go to Settings → Network & Internet → SIMs → Add eSIM. Choose 'Use QR Code' and scan the code from your confirmation email.
3. Turn on Data Roaming for the travel line
This is the step people miss. Label the new line (e.g. 'Aviroam Japan'), set it as your data line, and switch on Data Roaming for it only. Your home number stays on your primary SIM for calls and texts.
Pro tips
A few habits make the experience flawless:
- • Scan the eSIM the day before or on departure day, not weeks ahead.
- • Keep your home line's roaming OFF to avoid surprise charges.
- • If data doesn't start at your destination, toggle Airplane mode on and off once.