We use cookies and similar technologies. You can use the settings below to accept all cookies (which we recommend to give you the best experience) or to enable specific categories of cookies as explained below. Find out more by reading our Cookie Policy.
👋 Hi
Popular Search Terms
An eSIM, or embedded SIM, is a non-removable SIM card built into your smartphone. While it may seem limiting compared to removable SIM cards when travelling or switching carriers, eSIM technology actually simplifies the process.
Most popular smartphones have the option for an eSIM. Examples of phones that are eSIM compatible include:
A full list of eSIM-compatible phones can be found here.
Using an eSIM abroad is a cost-effective and straightforward way to travel. It means you can enjoy internet connectivity and make calls and texts using internet-based services (such as WhatsApp or FaceTime) without worrying about handling a physical SIM card.
From £0.37 per day
From £0.20 per day
From £0.23 per day
From £0.17 per day
From £0.23 per day
From £0.43 per day
From £0.20 per day
From £0.20 per day
From £0.20 per day
From £0.13 per day
eSIM technology offers an added layer of security compared to physical SIM cards. Since the eSIM is embedded within your device and cannot be physically removed, it provides increased protection against unauthorised access if your phone is lost or stolen. Even if someone gains possession of your device, they won't be able to remove the eSIM to gain access to your network services or sensitive information.
An eSIM eliminates the hassle of obtaining, carrying, and swapping physical SIM cards. Gone are the days of needing to keep track of multiple SIM cards or waiting for them to be delivered through the mail before you can travel. Instead, an eSIM allows you to activate your service directly on your device, providing instant network access without needing to handle a physical SIM card.
Certain phones allow you to have two active eSIMs simultaneously. This means you can have separate eSIMs for different purposes or locations. For example, you could have one eSIM configured for your home location and another for the place you're visiting, removing the need for physical SIM card swapping.
With the flexibility offered by eSIM technology, switching between your stored eSIMs is a breeze. By simply changing the selection in your device's settings, you can easily toggle between your active eSIM profiles. This feature proves particularly useful for frequent travellers or individuals who regularly visit specific locations, as it allows for quick and convenient access to network services based on their current needs or location.
The first and most important step in activating your eSIM is to make sure that your current device is actually eSIM compatible. You can check this on your phone settings. A full list of compatible phones can also be found here.
After buying your eSIM, you can activate it, by going to Settings→Cellular→Add Cellular Plan. Then scan the QR code provided or enter the eSIM details manually.
If, when purchasing an eSIM, you already have a physical SIM card in your device, you can switch plans by, going to Setting→Cellular and tapping on your desired plan.
Top up your travel eSIM quickly and easily. All you need to do is log back into your Uswitch powered by Breeze account and go to 'Manage my eSIMs' in the top right corner. From there, you can select another data bundle from a country of your choosing.
eSIMs have been part of the consumer market since 2016, but it wasn’t until Apple launched the iPhone 14 (which was eSIM only in the US) that it started getting the recognition it deserved.
However, not all UK networks support eSIMs at the moment. The good news is that most of the major networks, including O2, Three, EE, and Vodafone, offer this service. Some smaller networks, like Honest Mobile and Giffgaff, also offer eSIMs.
To choose the right data package, it's important to understand how much you can actually do with 1GB of data.
No. An eSIM can only be installed once on a single device.
Yes, buying multiple travel eSIMs for your whole family is possible. You can purchase eSIMs for other people under your account, but only one at a time. You can share it with someone by sending them the details via your account. You can also take a screenshot of the QR code and send it to them,
It is important to note that people you share the eSIMs with cannot check data usage, top up, or manage their eSIMs. This means all these actions will have to be done under your account.
If you accidentally delete your eSIM, there’s no need to worry. All you have to do is contact your carrier and have them send you a new QR code. Once you have the new QR code, simply scan it to reactivate your eSIM.
Not all smartphones have automatically active data roaming, so if you want to use mobile data whilst travelling abroad, you need to ensure that this setting is activated from your device’s settings.
To activate on an Android device:
To activate data roaming from an iOS device:
If data roaming is switched on and you still can’t use mobile data whilst abroad, you will need to check whether you are connected to the correct service provider.
Your travel eSIMs are designed for data use only, meaning you won't be able to make traditional phone calls or send SMS messages with them.
However, you can still use internet-based services like WhatsApp or FaceTime to message and call through the mobile data provided by your eSIM.
To check how much data you have left on your travel eSIM, go to Settings, then Connections, and tap ‘Data Usage’. This will display the remaining data.
Yes, you can use your existing WhatsApp account with an eSIM. When setting up the new eSIM, you won’t be required to change your phone number. You can change your WhatsApp account phone number, but remember to have a backup to recover your chats.
Track, save and make smarter choices for your home, in one place.
© Copyright 2000-2025 Uswitch Limited, licensed to RVU Services Limited. All rights reserved. An RVU Company.
Operated by RVU Services Limited, registered in England and Wales (Company No. 15331775) at The Cooperage, 5 Copper Row, London, SE1 2LH. RVU Services Limited (FRN 1007258) is an Appointed Representative of Inspop.com Limited (FRN 310635) for annual general insurance products, Uswitch Limited (FRN 312850) for boiler cover, Dot Zinc Limited (FRN 415689) for consumer credit and investment products, Tempcover Limited (FRN 746985) for temporary insurance products and Life’s Great Limited (FRN 478215) for mortgage products, each of which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. You can check this on the Financial Services Register.
Our service is free to use but depending on the product or service you choose we may receive a commission. We are a credit broker, not a lender.
To shop authentic smartphones, accessories, and power solutions, visit Thikra Store.






Leave a Comment