How to use a travel eSIM: setup, compatibility and tips
A practical guide to travel eSIMs — what they are, which phones support them, and how to install your Wasla eSIM before you fly so you have internet the moment you land.
Updated · Wasla
What you'll need
- A phone that supports eSIM and is not locked to one carrier
- A Wi-Fi connection for the one-time installation
- Your travel destination — plans are available for over 200 destinations
5 steps to get online with a travel eSIM
Check that your phone supports eSIM
Most recent iPhones (XS and newer), Samsung Galaxy S20 and newer, and Google Pixel 3 and newer support eSIM. Your phone must also be unlocked — if you bought it on a contract, check with your carrier.
Choose your destination and data plan
Pick the country you're travelling to and choose a data plan that matches your trip — a smaller package for a weekend, a larger one for a longer stay. You see the exact price and data amount before you pay.
Pay securely and get your QR code
After payment, your eSIM QR code is delivered to your email within moments, together with simple installation instructions.
Install the eSIM before you travel
While you're still on Wi-Fi at home, scan the QR code in your phone's settings to add the eSIM. Keep it switched off until you arrive — the validity period starts when the eSIM first connects to a network in your destination.
Turn it on when you land
At your destination, switch on the eSIM line and enable data roaming for it. Your phone connects to a local network and you're online within seconds — no airport SIM shops, no queues.
Which phones support eSIM?
Most flagship phones released since 2019 support eSIM, including iPhone XS and newer, Samsung Galaxy S20 and newer, and Google Pixel 3 and newer. Many newer phones can store several eSIMs and use two lines at once — your regular number stays active for calls and texts while the travel eSIM handles data.
Frequently asked questions
What is a travel eSIM?
An eSIM is a digital SIM built into your phone. Instead of swapping a plastic SIM card, you install a mobile plan by scanning a QR code. A travel eSIM gives you mobile data in your destination country without changing your regular number.
Can I keep my normal phone number?
Yes. Your regular SIM stays in the phone and your number keeps working for calls and texts. The travel eSIM is added as a second line that provides mobile data. You choose which line is used for data in your phone settings.
When should I install and activate the eSIM?
Install it at home on Wi-Fi any time after you receive the QR code — installation takes about a minute. The plan's validity starts when the eSIM first connects to a supported network in your destination, so you can install days before departure.
Does the eSIM include calls and text messages?
Wasla travel eSIMs are internet-only. You can make calls and send messages through apps like WhatsApp, FaceTime or Messenger using your eSIM data. Your regular number remains available for traditional calls and SMS.
What if my phone doesn't support eSIM?
If your phone has no eSIM support, the eSIM cannot be installed. Check compatibility before buying — on iPhone, look for Settings → Mobile Service → Add eSIM; on Android, Settings → Network & Internet → SIMs → Add SIM. If you're unsure, message Wasla on WhatsApp at +358 40 156 1568 before ordering.
What happens if I need help while travelling?
Message Wasla support on WhatsApp at +358 40 156 1568. Include your order reference from the confirmation email and describe what you see on your screen — most setup questions are solved in a few messages.
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Wasla — Travel eSIMs & Mobile Top-Ups · WhatsApp +358 40 156 1568