The Most Common eSIM Questions Answered: A Complete 2025 Guide for Travellers

Over the past month, thousands of travellers have asked questions about how eSIMs work, how to activate them and whether they are better than traditional roaming. With more smartphones becoming eSIM-compatible and international travel on the rise, digital SIMs are now one of the most searched travel tools online.

This guide brings together the most frequently asked eSIM questions and provides clear, simple answers to help travellers understand how eSIMs work and how to get the most from them. Whether you are travelling to the USA, Europe, Thailand, Japan or anywhere else, this article covers everything from installation to troubleshooting.

1. Do eSIMs Work on My Phone?

One of the most common questions is whether a device supports eSIM. Most modern smartphones now include eSIM capability, including:

• iPhone XR and newer
• Samsung Galaxy S20 and newer
• Google Pixel 4 and newer

If you are unsure, you can check compatibility at SimplySim – How It Works.

2. How Do I Install an eSIM?

Installation is one of the most searched topics. Most eSIMs activate using a simple QR code:

1. Open Settings
2. Tap Mobile Data or Cellular
3. Select Add eSIM
4. Scan the QR code provided

For a step-by-step visual guide, visit SimplySim – Support Centre.

3. Can I Keep My WhatsApp Number?

Yes. WhatsApp continues to use your original number even when your eSIM data is active. This is one of the main reasons travellers choose eSIMs instead of local physical SIM cards.

4. Will My eSIM Work on the Plane?

eSIMs cannot activate in aeroplane mode because the phone must connect to a mobile tower for initial registration. However, once activated on the ground, the plan will work normally when you land.

5. How Many eSIMs Can I Store?

Modern devices can store multiple eSIM profiles at once:

• iPhones typically store 8 or more
• Android devices vary but often store 5 or more

Only one can be active at a time, but travellers often keep different profiles for future trips.

6. Why Isn’t My eSIM Activating?

The most common activation issues include:

• VPN enabled during installation
• No mobile reception at the moment of activation
• Data roaming turned off
• eSIM attempted to install before arrival in the destination

Each of these has a simple fix, outlined in the help centre at SimplySim – Support.

7. Are eSIMs Better than Roaming?

Many travellers ask whether they should choose an eSIM instead of roaming with their UK network. The main advantages are:

• Lower data costs in most destinations
• No contracts or long-term commitments
• Local speeds using in-country networks
• No risk of unexpected roaming bills

Travellers often choose eSIMs for destinations like the USA, Japan and Thailand because local data networks offer faster performance.

8. Do I Need ID or Passport Details?

Most countries do not require identification for eSIM activation. A small number of locations may request details depending on local telecom rules, but this is the exception rather than the rule.

9. How Fast Are eSIMs Abroad?

Another widely searched question is whether eSIMs are slower than physical SIMs. eSIMs use exactly the same mobile networks, so speeds depend on:

• Local coverage in the area
• Whether the plan supports 4G or 5G
• Time of day and network congestion

SimplySim plans use high-quality network partners for destinations worldwide. Explore available networks at SimplySim – Destinations.

10. Do eSIMs Drain More Battery?

No. eSIMs use the same mobile antennas as physical SIMs. Battery life depends more on:

• Signal strength
• Background apps
• Display brightness
• 5G vs 4G usage

Final Thoughts

eSIM questions continue to rise as more travellers look for flexible ways to stay connected abroad. Whether you want to know how to install an eSIM, troubleshoot activation or check device compatibility, the technology is now simpler and more accessible than ever.

For travellers looking for easy activation, clear data plans and reliable global coverage, SimplySim offers a wide selection of international eSIM options. Explore all plans at SimplySim – Home.