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Coming home from holiday to a big phone bill is a feeling most of us know. A travel eSIM is a simple way to avoid it: you buy a data plan for where you are going, install it on your phone in a few minutes, and use local-rate data while you are away, with your normal UK number still working.
What is an eSIM?
An eSIM is a digital SIM built into your phone. Instead of a plastic card, you download a mobile plan by scanning a QR code or tapping a button in an app. Most phones can hold several eSIMs alongside your normal SIM, so you can add a travel data plan without removing your UK SIM or changing your number.
Travel eSIMs are usually data-only. You use the data for maps, browsing, WhatsApp, FaceTime and other apps, while your UK number can stay switched on in the background for texts such as bank security codes.
📱 Is my phone eSIM compatible?
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Based on UK models. Your phone also needs to be unlocked (not tied to one network). Some phones sold outside the UK, for example in mainland China or Hong Kong, may not support eSIM.
Why it saves money
Since Brexit, UK networks are free to charge for roaming in Europe again, and most do. Many charge a daily fee, typically around £2 to £3 a day in Europe, and outside Europe (the USA, Turkey, Dubai, Asia and so on) roaming can cost a lot more. Prices depend on your network and when you joined, so check your own network’s roaming page.
Illustrative example only. Roaming charges and eSIM prices change, so check current prices before you buy. Families can save even more, as a roaming charge applies to every phone.
The benefits at a glance
- No contract: pay once for the data you need, with no subscription and no credit check.
- Keep your UK number: your normal SIM stays in the phone for calls and texts.
- Set up before you fly: no hunting for a local SIM shop at the airport.
- Connected as you land: maps, taxi apps and messages work straight away.
- No bill shock: you can only use what you have paid for, and you can top up in the app.
- Works in lots of countries: single-country and regional plans (for example all of Europe) are available.
How to set one up (about 5 minutes)
- Check your phone supports eSIM and is unlocked. Most iPhones from 2018 onwards and most recent Android phones do. Use our checker above, or dial *#06#: if you see an EID number, your phone supports eSIM.
- Choose a plan for your destination: how much data and for how many days.
- Install it at home on Wi-Fi before you travel, by scanning the QR code or tapping install in the app. It will not start using data until you switch to it abroad.
- When you land, set the travel eSIM as your mobile data line and turn on data roaming for the eSIM. Turn data roaming off on your UK SIM so you are not charged for data on it.
🏷️ Current eSIM offers
Live codes and offers from Breeze, checked twice a day.
Buy 3 or more and you get 1 eSIM 30% off w/code HALFTERM30
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Our picks
Saily
From the team behind NordVPN
- Plans for 200+ destinations, according to Saily
- Everything runs in the Saily app: buy, install and top up
- Switch between country plans without installing a new eSIM
- Optional extras including ad and tracker blocking, and a virtual location feature
- 24/7 support in the app
Breeze
Simple, no-contract travel data
- Data plans for 190+ countries, including regional plans such as Europe
- No contract, with instant activation by QR code
- Usage alerts, and you are never charged beyond the plan you bought
- Save 10% when you buy 2 or more plans, handy for families
- Top up or add another plan when you need more
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Before you fly: eSIM checklist
Quick answers
Will I still get texts to my UK number? Usually yes, if your UK SIM stays switched on. Receiving texts abroad is often free, but check your network’s roaming terms.
Can I make normal phone calls on a travel eSIM? Most travel eSIMs are data-only, so use WhatsApp, FaceTime or similar apps for calls.
Can I use it again on my next trip? Often yes: many apps let you top up or buy a new plan for the same eSIM.
Does it work for the whole family? Each phone needs its own plan, and some providers give a discount for buying several.
This guide is general information, not financial advice. Features, coverage and prices are as stated by each provider and can change, so check before you buy. Last updated 8 October 2026.
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