Five common mistakes when installing an eSIM

1. Scanning the QR without Wi-Fi

Installing an eSIM downloads a profile from the carrier's server — that needs internet. Obvious in hindsight, yet it is the single most common mistake: people wait until they land, when they have no data.

2. Forgetting to enable data roaming

The number one problem after landing. A travel eSIM runs on a local partner network, so technically it is always roaming. Without roaming on, you get signal but no internet.

Crucially: enable roaming for the eSIM line only, not your home SIM. Enabling it on your home SIM is the fastest route to a surprise bill.

3. Deleting the eSIM because it looks broken

You install at home, the phone says 'No Service', and it looks like a failure. But a travel eSIM only finds a network in its country — at home it always shows no service. And deleting is permanent: the old QR will not reinstall.

4. Installing it on the wrong phone

A QR code works once. Testing it on a family member's phone burns it, and it cannot be reissued. Scan only on the device you are travelling with.

5. Not selecting the eSIM for data

Installed, but the phone still uses your home SIM for mobile data — so you do not use the plan you paid for and you do rack up roaming charges. In SIM settings, set the eSIM as the data line and keep your home SIM for calls and texts.