Can I Use a Virtual SIM Card for Travel?
Marissa Ling
February 5, 2024 22:07
What is eSIM?
Using the virtual SIM card function on your phone can be a convenient way to avoid roaming charges while traveling. Of course, you still need to buy specific plans, but it offers a more flexible option.
In this article, we’ll examine what we mean by virtual SIM cards and how you can set up an international SIM card for travel.
What is a Virtual SIM Card? #
A virtual SIM card is also known as an eSIM. In short, the E stands for embedded. This means that, rather than inserting a SIM into your phone, it already has the hardware. The benefit of using an eSIM is that you can quickly switch between profiles without changing your hardware.
Some smartphones come with a built-in virtual SIM card. Generally, flagship phones such as Samsung Galaxy and iPhones have this feature. It started rolling out around 2020, so it’s still a relatively new feature.
Does a Virtual SIM Card Work for Travel? #
You can use an eSIM as an international SIM card for travel. The best eSIM for international travel will be one you can use in multiple countries. However, buying a short-term plan in each country is also an option.
The first step is determining whether your phone supports a virtual SIM card. To do this, you need your phone’s IMEI number.
- Open Settings, go to General, and tap About.
- You’ll see an option on the iPhone that says Digital SIM within the IMEI menu.
- On Android, you’ll see an IMEI for eSIM.
Your phone supports a virtual SIM card if you have either of these options in the IMEI menu. Providing it does, you can move on to choosing an international SIM card travel plan.
Setting Up an International SIM Card for Travel #
Setting up a virtual SIM card for travel is pretty straightforward:
- Choose your virtual SIM profile from a provider.
- Select a data plan for the timespan and country of your choice.
- Set up the plan using the QR code you’ll be given.
- Once it’s live, use your phone as usual.
Can I Buy a Virtual SIM Card from Another Country? #
Using an international carrier is probably the most convenient option. Once you have the profile, it’s ready to use whenever you enter a different country. As such, a travel SIM card profile is helpful for frequent travelers.
But if you only need occasional use of an international SIM card for travel, you can buy them from the country you’re visiting. Apple has a list of mainstream providers offering eSIM plans, although it’s not complete.
You can then buy a virtual SIM card profile from a carrier’s website or in-store once you’re in the country. Of course, this can be a more challenging option because you may have to deal with language barriers.
To do this, you use your existing phone, buy the plan you want, and then activate it. You’ll find short-term roaming plans or pay-as-you-roam, depending on your needs. For example, some international providers offer 5- or 10-day plans, whereas others sell rolling daily plans.
These short-term plans are more cost-effective than pay-as-you-go, mainly if you use a lot of data. For straightforward calls and texts, pay-as-you-roam might be the better option.
Does a Virtual SIM Card Deactivate a Physical SIM? #
One way or another, you can have 2 SIM cards in your phone. But some phones support dual SIM while others will only let you have one live at a time.
To check, do the following:
- On Android, go to Settings and select Network and Internet.
- Tap SIM Cards, which should be below Airplane mode.
- If more than one SIM slot is displayed, your phone is dual SIM.
For iPhones, it’s just a case of having an iPhone XS or later that runs iOS 12.1 or later.
If your phone supports dual SIM, it must be unlocked to use an international SIM card for travel. If your phone is still locked, both plans must be from the same network.
However, you can still set up a virtual SIM card profile if your phone is a single SIM. The only difference is that you’ll need to switch between them manually. Doing so involves:
- Go to Settings and select Data and Network.
- Here, you should see your available SIM profiles. Tap on the one you want to use.
It’s pretty much the same for Android and iOS. The only real difference is that the menu options have slightly different names.
Also, dual SIM phones can usually still make calls on both profiles. It’s worth double-checking which is active before making a call, as you could accidentally rack up a massive bill if you use your domestic SIM card to make a call while abroad!
How Can I Choose a Virtual SIM Card? #
Roamify will soon launch its eSIM plans for Samsung and iPhone. It'll offer many plans at much lower prices than the standard carriers. Importantly, Roamify eSIMs are tailored to traveling worldwide, giving you competitive international calling and data usage rates.
Roamify will offer a variety of plants at a much lower cost than your standard carriers. Providing your phone is unlocked, you’ll have loads of options to help save money while traveling abroad.
So, download today on Android, iOS, and web browsers to start your 7-day free trial.
Tags:
sim card
virtual sim card
virtual sim card for travel
travel esim
Related eSIM destination plans
Frequently asked questions
- What will I learn in Can I Use a Virtual SIM Card for Travel??
- You will learn how eSIM activation works, how to compare data plans, and which setup steps matter most before and during your trip.
- How do I choose the right eSIM plan for Japan?
- Match your plan to trip length, expected daily data use, hotspot needs, and network quality in your destination. Short stays usually need less data, while remote work and video calls need more.
- Where can I buy travel eSIM plans for Japan and Thailand?
- Use the destination links in this guide to go directly to Roamify country pages, compare plan options, and complete checkout before departure.