How to Install and Activate an eSIM Before You Travel

Staying connected abroad is easier when your eSIM is installed before your trip. In most cases, installation only takes a few minutes and can be completed from your phone’s settings while connected to reliable Wi-Fi.

This guide explains the general setup process for iPhone and Android devices. Menu names may vary depending on your phone model and operating-system version.

Before installing your eSIM

Before you begin, make sure:

• Your phone supports eSIM.
• Your phone is carrier-unlocked.
• You are connected to reliable Wi-Fi.
• You have your TravelFi QR code or manual activation details.
• The QR code is displayed on another device when possible.

Important: Do not delete an installed eSIM unless TravelFi Support instructs you to do so. Many eSIM QR codes can only be installed once.

How to install a travel eSIM

1. Open your phone’s Settings.
2. Open Cellular, Mobile Data, Network & Internet, Connections, or SIM Manager.
3. Select Add eSIM, Add Mobile Plan, Add SIM, or Download a SIM.
4. Choose the option to scan a QR code.
5. Scan the QR code included with your TravelFi order.
6. Follow the on-screen instructions to install the eSIM.
7. Label the new plan TravelFi or Travel.
8. Keep your regular SIM selected for calls and messages if required.
9. Select TravelFi for mobile data when you are ready to connect.
10. Enable data roaming for the TravelFi eSIM at your destination when required.

The exact menu names vary by manufacturer. See the complete device-specific installation guide for detailed steps.

Installation and activation are different

Installation

Installation adds the eSIM profile to your device. It can normally be completed before departure while connected to Wi-Fi.

Activation

Your plan begins according to the activation policy shown on the product page. Many travel eSIMs activate when they first connect to a supported network at the destination.

Install before your trip. Connect when you arrive.

What to do when you arrive

1. Turn on the TravelFi eSIM.
2. Select TravelFi for mobile data.
3. Enable data roaming for the TravelFi eSIM.
4. Disable cellular data switching.
5. Keep roaming disabled on your primary SIM if you want to avoid carrier roaming charges.
6. Wait a few minutes for the phone to register on a local network.
7. Toggle airplane mode or restart the phone if it does not connect.

What to do if your eSIM does not connect

• Confirm that the TravelFi eSIM is turned on.
• Confirm that TravelFi is selected for mobile data.
• Enable data roaming for TravelFi.
• Turn airplane mode on for approximately 30 seconds and then turn it off.
• Restart your phone.
• Leave network selection set to Automatic initially.
• Confirm that your destination is included in the plan coverage.
• Check any APN instructions included with your order.

For more detailed help, open the TravelFi eSIM troubleshooting guide.

Quick setup summary

Before departure

• Check eSIM compatibility.
• Confirm that your phone is unlocked.
• Install the eSIM using reliable Wi-Fi.
• Keep the eSIM installed.

At your destination

• Turn on TravelFi.
• Select it for mobile data.
• Enable data roaming.
• Wait for the phone to connect.