What is an eSIM? Your complete guide to staying connected abroad
Roaming charges are one of the oldest tricks in the mobile industry's book. An eSIM is the modern fix, and it can save you a fortune on your next trip.
What exactly is an eSIM?
An eSIM (embedded SIM) is a digital SIM card already built into your phone. There is no physical card to buy, wait for, or lose at the bottom of your bag. You buy a data plan online, scan a QR code, and within a couple of minutes you are connected to a local network in the country you are visiting.
Unlike a traditional SIM, an eSIM is not tied to one carrier forever. You can store several eSIM profiles on one device and switch between them whenever you need, which makes it perfect for travel.
Why travellers are switching to eSIMs
- No more roaming shock. Your home carrier's daily roaming fees add up fast. A travel eSIM gives you a local plan at a local price, usually a fraction of the cost.
- Connected the moment you land. No queueing at airport kiosks, no hunting for a SIM shop, no language barrier. You can activate your plan before you even take off.
- Keep your own number. Your physical SIM stays in the phone, so WhatsApp, iMessage and your regular number all keep working. The eSIM simply adds data on top.
- Flexible plans. Buy exactly what you need, from a 1 GB weekend plan to a 365-day unlimited option, in 100+ countries.
- Better for the planet. No plastic packaging, no shipping, no waste.
How much can you actually save?
The numbers vary by carrier, but a typical UK or US network charges £5 to £7 a day for roaming in popular destinations. A two-week holiday can easily add £70 to £100 to your bill. An eSIM data plan for the same trip often costs under £15.
For frequent travellers, the savings are even bigger. Instead of paying a premium every single trip, you buy a plan that matches the trip, every time. Curious how we keep those prices low? See why VervTrip eSIMs are so competitive.
Is my phone eSIM compatible?
Most phones released since 2018 support eSIM, including recent iPhone (XR and newer), Google Pixel, Samsung Galaxy, and many other Android devices. The quickest check is to search your device settings for "eSIM" or "add mobile plan". If the option is there, you are ready.
How to get started with VervTrip eSIMs
- Browse the destinations and pick the country you are visiting.
- Choose a data plan that fits your trip length and usage.
- Checkout securely, and your eSIM details arrive by email.
- Scan the QR code, activate, and you are online.
Ready to save on data?
Browse plans for your destination and see exactly what you would pay, with no roaming fees and no physical SIM.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need to remove my normal SIM to use an eSIM?
No. Your eSIM runs alongside your physical SIM, so you keep your regular number for calls and texts while using the eSIM for data.
Can I use the eSIM in more than one country?
Some plans are country-specific and some are regional. Check the plan details, and pick the one that matches your route.
When does my plan start?
Most plans activate when you first connect to a network in the destination country, so your data lasts for the full validity period of your trip.
What if I run out of data?
You can top up or simply buy another plan. Some plans also include unlimited data, so you never have to think about it.
Travel further, spend less, and stay connected everywhere you go.