You get a travel eSIM by buying a plan online or in a provider’s app, then scanning the QR code it emails you (or tapping install in the app). It takes about five minutes and needs an unlocked, eSIM-compatible phone. 1) Check your phone. 2) Choose a country, regional or global plan. 3) Buy it. 4) Install it on wi-fi before you fly.
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1. Check your phone is unlocked and eSIM-compatible
Your phone needs an eSIM chip and must not be locked to your Australian carrier. Most recent iPhones, Pixels and Samsung Galaxy flagships support eSIM; many budget phones don’t. How to check both in 30 seconds →
2. Choose a plan: country, regional or global
- Country plans are usually cheapest for a single-destination trip.
- Regional plans (Europe, Asia) suit multi-country trips — check every country you’re visiting is on the list.
- Global plans cost more per GB but cover long trips across continents.
Compare data, validity and the fine print, not only the headline price: “unlimited” plans slow down after a daily allowance (unlimited, decoded) and some limit hotspot use. Every destination compared →
3. Buying: app vs website
Most providers sell through both. The app is usually easier, because it can install the eSIM directly and show your remaining data; the website emails a QR code instead. Many providers price in US dollars, so an Australian card may add a foreign transaction fee.
4. Installing
Install on wi-fi before you leave and switch it on when you land. Step-by-step activation for iPhone and Android →
Keeping your Australian number for SMS
Most eSIM phones can run two lines at once, so you can leave your Australian SIM in for texts such as bank codes while the travel eSIM handles data. Turn data roaming off on your Australian line to avoid charges, and check your carrier’s rates for receiving texts abroad. Most travel eSIMs are data-only — which ones include a number.
Common mistakes
- Buying for a phone that is carrier-locked.
- Installing at the airport on patchy wi-fi, or deleting the eSIM and finding it can’t be reinstalled.
- Forgetting to turn on data roaming for the eSIM line.
- Leaving your Australian line set for mobile data and paying roaming fees.
- Buying a plan whose validity started before you left.
Airalo sells eSIMs for more than 200 destinations and is the most recognised brand in the category.
See Airalo plans →Affiliate note: Traviva earns a commission if you buy through this Airalo link, at no extra cost to you. It does not change anything this page says about Airalo or any other provider — see our disclosure.
Questions travellers ask
Can I get an eSIM from my Australian provider?
Your Australian carrier can usually issue an eSIM version of your home service, but that is still your home plan and uses its roaming rates overseas. A travel eSIM is a separate prepaid data plan from a travel eSIM provider, bought online.
Do I need an unlocked phone?
Yes. A phone locked to your Australian carrier will not accept another provider’s eSIM. Ask your carrier to unlock it before you travel.
How long does it take to get an eSIM?
Usually about five minutes: the provider emails a QR code or makes the eSIM available in its app straight after purchase, and installing takes a minute or two on wi-fi.
Can I keep my number while using a travel eSIM?
Yes, on most dual-SIM phones. Keep your Australian line on for calls and texts, turn off its data roaming, and set the travel eSIM as your mobile data line.