How to use a travel eSIM

From buying to getting online, in about five minutes.

  1. 1Check your phone
  2. 2Pick a plan
  3. 3Pay, get the QR
  4. 4Install the eSIM
  5. 5Switch on when you land

Before you travel · do it at home

1
Step 1 of 5

Check that your phone supports eSIM

Dial *#06# and call. If you see an EID, your phone supports eSIM. It must also be carrier-unlocked.

Phones that support eSIM
  • iPhone XS and later
  • Samsung Galaxy S20 and later
  • Google Pixel 3 and later
  • Newer Android phones with eSIM
iPhone

Settings › General › About › EID

Samsung

Settings › About phone › Status information

Menu names may vary by model.

2
Step 2 of 5

Choose your destination and eSIM plan

Choose where you're going, compare plans and networks, then tap buy.

Our advice
  • Maps and chat only → 1–3 GB is enough
  • Lots of social media → 5 GB or more
  • Video or work → go unlimited
Work out how many GB you need →Shop eSIM plans
3
Step 3 of 5

Pay and get your eSIM QR code

Pay on the provider's website. The QR code arrives by email right away.

New customers can use code THAF-UCQY for 10% off and free Easy travel insurance.

4
Step 4 of 5

Install the eSIM before you travel

Scan the QR code to add the eSIM to your phone. Do it at home while you're on Wi-Fi.

  1. Settings › Cellular › Add eSIM
  2. Choose Use QR Code
  3. Scan the QR code you received
  4. If you cannot scan it, choose Enter Details Manually and enter the SM-DP+ address and activation code from your Vacay email

Install while connected to Wi-Fi. If this is your only phone, open the QR code on another device or print it first. Some models can install from a saved QR screenshot.

  1. Settings › Connections › SIM manager › Add eSIM › Scan QR code from service provider
  2. Scan the QR code you received
  3. Follow the on-screen steps to install

Menu names may vary by One UI version. Wi-Fi is required.

  1. Settings › Network & internet › SIMs › Add eSIM
  2. Choose QR code scanning and scan the code you received
  3. Follow the on-screen steps to install

Menu names vary by model. Wi-Fi is required.

When you land

5
Step 5 of 5

Activate your eSIM when you arrive

When you arrive, turn on the eSIM you installed and set it as your mobile data line.

  1. 1Turn on your installed eSIM line
  2. 2Set Cellular Data to use your eSIM
  3. 3Turn on Data Roaming for the eSIM line. Most travel eSIM plans use roaming to connect to a network.
Keep getting Thai bank codes abroad →

Ready to buy an eSIM?

Compare every plan for where you're going.

Choose your destination →

Frequently asked questions

What is an eSIM?
An eSIM is a digital SIM built into your phone. You scan a QR code instead of inserting a card, and your own SIM stays in the phone for calls and SMS.
Does my phone support eSIM?
Dial *#06#. If an EID number shows up, your phone supports eSIM. Most iPhones from the XR/XS onwards and recent Samsung, Google Pixel and other Android flagships do. The phone also has to be carrier-unlocked.
When does my plan start counting days?
Most plans compared here start when you arrive at your destination, so you can install the eSIM at home before you fly. A few local-SIM plans (for example AT&T in the USA, Telus in Canada and EE in the UK) start when you buy or install them: set those up on the day you travel.
Can I still get SMS codes on my own number?
Yes. Keep your home SIM switched on for calls and SMS, set mobile data to the eSIM, and turn off data roaming on your home SIM so it doesn't run up roaming charges.
Is there a discount?
New Vacay customers get 10% off with the code THAF-UCQY, entered at checkout.
Who runs GoeSIM?
GoeSIM is an independent comparison site based in Thailand. We compare plans from Vacay, a Thai eSIM provider, and earn a commission when you buy through our links, at no extra cost to you. Prices are in Thai baht.