Using an eSIM When Traveling Abroad? Read This First!

eSIMs are all the rage!

In fact, most major telecom operators in Poland are now offering eSIM as an option along with physical SIM cards. The transition is picking up pace, and the day when eSIMs are the norm isn’t too far away! 

But why are eSIMs suddenly becoming popular? 

The fact is that eSIMs were already pretty popular among travelers. The convenience of eSIMs when travelling abroad is second to none. 

And then Apple came along and decided to launch eSIM-only versions of iPhones for select regions. This boosted the already rising popularity of eSIMs. 

Enough with history! Let’s now focus on what this blog is all about. 

If you are someone who is planning to travel and is thinking about trying an eSIM, this blog is for you. It explores everything you need to know about eSIMs for your trip abroad, from the very basics to some do’s and don’ts. Head right in! 

What is an eSIM? 

eSIM stands for Embedded Subscriber Identity Module. Also known as a digital SIM, an eSIM is already present in your device, soldered inside during manufacturing. All you have to do is activate it, and it will work just like a physical SIM card. 

So, how do you activate it? 

You simply download an eSIM profile from an operator of your choice and follow the instructions. We have an entire section dedicated to activation further down. 

The convenience factor is what makes eSIMs an attractive option for international travel. You don’t have to fiddle with the SIM tray or the ejector tool for eSIMs. 

eSIMs are also eco-friendly, since they lack the plastic or paper packaging that’s often associated with traditional SIM cards. 

Why Opt for an eSIM when Traveling Abroad? 

Because it’s convenient, plain and simple! 

Look at it this way. 

You’re visiting a foreign country and are looking for a mobile connection. Would you go through the hassle of ordering a physical SIM card, inserting it, and waiting for it to activate or just buy an eSIM and be done with it in a few taps? 

The answer is obvious, isn’t it? 

This is one major reason why many people opt for eSIMs when traveling abroad. 

Plus, purchasing a local or travel eSIM is a lot better than dealing with exorbitant roaming charges. 

Then there is the option to store multiple eSIM profiles. 

Most eSIM-compatible smartphones have one physical SIM slot and one eSIM. This means that you can have two lines active simultaneously. 

But there’s another advantage with eSIMs. Depending on your device, you can store multiple eSIM profiles and activate them as and when you need them. 

In layman’s terms, you can purchase and activate multiple eSIM profiles and enable them based on your requirements. Everything will be done in a few simple taps, and you now have mobile internet that can be used abroad. 

The eSIM vs. Physical SIM Debate 

This has been going on for a while. 

Physical SIM cards are the norm, and the transition can be difficult for some. 

But you cannot deny the fact that eSIMs have a clear advantage over physical SIM cards. 

Here’s a table that justifies why you should choose an eSIM when travelling abroad instead of a physical SIM card. 

 If you’re convinced that an eSIM would be ideal for your travels, let’s help you with a recommendation. As one of the top MVNOs in the world, Lyca Mobile brings you some awesome prepaid eSIM deals. These plans pack plenty of high-speed data along with local calling and texting benefits to make your Poland trip a memorable one. Lyca Mobile’s prepaid plans also come with EU roaming benefits and data rollover capability. 

How to Check eSIM Compatibility for Your Device 

Compatibility is a crucial thing to consider before purchasing an eSIM. Most modern smartphones come with 1 physical SIM card slot and 1 eSIM. So, if your phone is recently purchased, you’re good. 

That said, checking for eSIM compatibility doesn’t hurt. The most common method is to dial *#06# from your Phone app. When you press call, your device will display its IMEI number. If you see an EID (Embedded Identity Document) along with it, then your device supports eSIMs. The code is universal and works for both Android and iOS devices. 

Here are the OS-specific steps to check eSIM compatibility. 

Head to Settings > Cellular. If you see the Add eSIM option, then your iOS device supports eSIMs. 

Navigate to Settings > Network & Connections/Connections > SIM Manager/Mobile Networks/SIMs. The presence of options like “Add a mobile plan,” “Download a new SIM,” or “Add eSIM” mean that your Android device is compatible with eSIMs. 

Lyca Mobile eSIM Deals You Shouldn’t Miss 

Now that you know that you have an eSIM-compatible device, it’s time to look at some prepaid eSIM plans when you travel abroad. 

Lyca Mobile has some cool prepaid eSIM deals that benefit travelers. Here are the most popular ones. 

The roaming benefits of these plans can be used in the EU, Ukraine, and Moldova. 

How to Activate an eSIM When Traveling Abroad 

Well, by now you have, hopefully, purchased your first eSIM for your trip abroad. 

With the first step out of the way, let’s look at how you can activate your international eSIM. For reference, we’ll be activating a Lyca Mobile eSIM. 

Step 1: Connect to a stable source of internet in Poland before you leave

Step 2: Look for the confirmation email from Lyca Mobile. It contains the activation QR code. Scan it. 

Step 3: Follow the prompts. Your Lyca Mobile eSIM will be activated. 

Step 4: You’ll have to register your Lyca Mobile eSIM after activation. Head to the registration page and follow the instructions. The process takes roughly 3 minutes. 

Congratulations, you now have an eSIM that has high-speed data, local calling and texting benefits, and dedicated data for EU roaming. 

Do’s & Don’ts of Using an eSIM Abroad 

As technologically advanced an eSIM is, there are some do’s and don’ts you should consider to ensure smooth functioning. 

The following pointers apply to all types of eSIMs, whether they are prepaid eSIMs or the ones that offer just data. 

Do’s 

• Connect to a stable source of internet before initiating the installation process. 
• Label eSIM profiles to avoid confusion. 
• Monitor data usage to prevent service disruption. 
• If you’re on an unlimited plan, read the eSIM’s terms and conditions to check for data/speed limits. 
• Try the activation code method to install your eSIM if scanning the QR code doesn’t work. 
• Enable/disable data roaming based on your operator’s recommendation. 

Don’ts 

• Don’t delete your eSIM profile under any circumstances. 
• Don’t share the eSIM activation QR code, unless it is to another device that you are currently carrying. 
• Don’t edit eSIM information unless instructed by a customer support professional. 

eSIMs are the number one counter to roaming charges for tourists. 

As for others, it offers an easy method of getting a local number without the fuss of removing an old SIM card and inserting a new one. 

Regardless of the reason, an eSIM brings nothing but convenience. A day where operators offer only eSIMs might not be far away. 

If you have an eSIM-compatible phone, then you should switch to an eSIM as soon as possible. 

Also, don’t forget to explore Lyca Mobile’s range of prepaid eSIM plans. These plans come with benefits to meet any type of call, text, and data requirements. You can also bring your old number and become a part of Lyca Mobile. Switch to Lyca today.