What is an eSIM and how does a travel eSIM work?

An eSIM is a SIM that is built into your phone instead of being a plastic card. Apple describes it as an industry-standard digital SIM that removes the need for a physical SIM card. Instead of inserting a card, you add a mobile plan to the phone by scanning a QR code or using an app.

How a travel eSIM works

1. Buy a plan for your destination. On Telroo each product page lists every plan's data allowance, validity, AUD price and the networks it uses.
2. Get the QR code. Telroo emails it after payment. No account is needed to buy.
3. Install it on Wi-Fi. Scanning the code adds the eSIM to your phone as a second line. Most people do this at home before they fly.
4. Switch data to it when you land. Choose the travel eSIM as your mobile-data line and follow the plan's activation instructions.

Step-by-step guides: installation overview, iPhone, Samsung and Google Pixel.

Your Australian SIM stays in the phone

A phone with dual SIM can hold your Australian SIM and a travel eSIM at the same time. Apple says an iPhone can use one mobile data network at a time, while both numbers stay active for calls and messages. That is how a travel eSIM is normally used: the Australian line stays on for calls and texts, and the travel eSIM carries the data. Google says Pixel phones can use two eSIMs, or one eSIM and one physical SIM, at once, depending on the model and carrier.

Telroo travel eSIMs are data-only: they do not give you a new phone number. Read more in keeping your Australian number while using a travel eSIM.

One iPhone setting to check

Apple explains that with Allow Mobile Data Switching turned on, the voice-only line switches to use data while you are on a call on it. Overseas, if that line is your Australian SIM, its data would be roaming. If you want all your data on the travel eSIM, leave this setting off while you travel and keep data roaming off on the Australian line.

Which phones support eSIM?

Apple lists iPhone XS, iPhone XS Max, iPhone XR and later as eSIM-capable (with exceptions for models sold in mainland China). Many recent Samsung Galaxy and Google Pixel models support eSIM too, but support depends on the exact model and the country it was sold in. The phone also has to be carrier-unlocked.

• Check your phone's compatibility (with a quick model checker)
• Unlock a phone from Telstra, Optus or Vodafone
• Travel eSIM on an iPad or Apple Watch

eSIM or a physical SIM card?

With an eSIM there is nothing to post, collect or swap, and you cannot lose a tiny card at the airport. The trade-off is that an eSIM is tied to the phone it was installed on: a travel eSIM QR code may only install once, so do not delete it unless support confirms it can be reinstalled. For other ways to get data overseas, see travel eSIM or international roaming?

eSIM questions

Can I store more than one eSIM?

Yes. Apple says an iPhone can hold eight or more eSIMs, although only some can be in use at once. You can keep a travel eSIM installed and switch between lines in settings.

Do I need Wi-Fi to install an eSIM?

Installing a travel eSIM downloads its profile to the phone, so do it on reliable Wi-Fi, ideally at home before you leave.

Does a travel eSIM change my phone number?

No. A Telroo travel eSIM is data-only. Your Australian number stays on your Australian SIM.

Can I use an eSIM on a locked phone?

No. A carrier-locked phone only accepts that carrier's SIMs and eSIMs. Ask your carrier to unlock it first.

Sources and last checked

Checked 16 October 2026: Apple, set up eSIM on iPhone and using Dual SIM with an eSIM; Google, use an eSIM on Pixel. Telroo delivery and checkout details as described on our product and policy pages.