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Heading overseas and keep hearing “travel eSIMs”?

  • Writer: Eddy
    Eddy
  • Sep 19
  • 2 min read

Not sure what a travel eSIM is or why so many travellers are talking about it? Here’s a clear, customer‑friendly guide to what they are, how they work and when to choose one.


What is travel eSIMs?

A travel eSIM is a digital mobile plan you download to your phone for use in another country or region. There’s no plastic card to swap. You scan a QR code, the plan appears on your device and it connects when you land. Because it’s prepaid, costs are predictable and there’s no bill shock.


How a travel eSIM works

Choose a destination pack and complete your purchase.

  1. You’ll receive a QR code by email.

  2. Scan the code in your phone’s settings and the plan installs as a second mobile line.

  3. When you arrive, your phone registers on a partner network and data starts working.

💡 Most people install the eSIM at home on Wi-Fi so it’s ready before they board.


Why travellers like eSIMs

  • Fast to set up.

  • Nothing to lose or misplace.

  • Data prices are usually sharper than pay-per-use roaming.

  • Prepaid packs stop when used up, keeping spending in check.

  • Many cover multiple countries in a region. This is perfect for Europe or South-East Asia.


Will my phone work?

To use a travel eSIM, your phone must:

  • Be unlocked: An unlocked phone can use SIMs or eSIMs from any provider. If your phone is locked, it will only work with the provider you bought it from. Call your current provider to check and, if needed, request an unlock (usually free once the phone is paid off).

  • Support eSIM: Dial *#06#. If your phone is eSIM-ready, you’ll see a 32-digit EID number on the screen. You can also check in your mobile settings under “Add eSIM” or “Add Mobile Plan.”

Recent iPhones and many newer Androids support eSIM. If you’re unsure, E.Tel can confirm before you buy.


Using your eSIM overseas

  • Calls & texts: Keep your Australian line active if you still need to receive calls or SMS, but set Mobile Data to the travel eSIM.

  • Cost control: Use Wi-Fi for big updates, pause automatic uploads, and check your usage meter to know when to top up.

  • Troubleshooting: If data doesn’t start, toggle Airplane Mode. If your phone won’t add an eSIM, it may be locked or not eSIM-capable.



Managing calls, texts and data

A travel eSIM gives you local‑style data overseas. If you also need to receive calls or texts on your Australian number while away, you can keep your Australian line active and set Mobile Data to the travel eSIM in settings. If you do not need incoming calls or SMS on your Aussie number, you can leave it off and use the travel eSIM on its own.


Need a hand?

Contact us at 1300 383 588 before you fly and we’ll check compatibility, help you choose a pack and walk you through the setup in minutes.

 
 
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