eSIM card – Internet abroad

What is an eSIM card?

An eSIM card is a modern, digital alternative to traditional SIM cards that is permanently built into your device. Instead of inserting a plastic card into your phone, you use a small chip integrated into your smartphone. This solution allows you to activate a network plan without the need to purchase and replace a physical card. For tourists, eSIM is a real revolution. Instead of looking for a SIM card store or a local operator after arriving in a new country, all you need to do is purchase a data package online and activate it in just a few moments. This is what eSIM mobile internet offers – convenience, flexibility, and no need to physically replace cards.

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How to activate your eSIM card?

1. Check if your device supports eSIM – Make sure your phone, tablet, or smartwatch is compatible with this technology. You can find a list of compatible models further down in this article.

2. Choose an eSIM provider – There are many companies offering eSIM for travel, such as Airalo, Nomad, and Holafly. Choose the plan that's right for you – pay attention to the number of gigabytes, the duration of the offer, and the countries covered by the package.

3. Purchase a data package and download the QR code – After purchasing, you will receive a QR code needed to activate the eSIM. It is usually sent to your email or available in the operator's app.

4. Scan the QR code in your phone settings – Go to settings (usually in the “Mobile data” or “Mobile network” section), select add a new plan, and scan the code you received.

5. Activate the service – After scanning the code, the eSIM profile will be downloaded and activated. Sometimes it may be necessary to restart your device.

How is eSIM different from a traditional SIM?

A comparison of eSIM vs. traditional SIM helps to better understand why eSIM technology is gaining popularity. Here are the most important differences:

• Physical form

A traditional SIM is a plastic card that must be physically inserted into the device. An eSIM, on the other hand, is built into the phone, tablet, or smartwatch, so it does not need to be replaced.

• Convenience and flexibility

eSIM allows you to save several operator profiles at the same time and switch between them easily. With a standard SIM, each change requires removing and inserting a new card, which can be inconvenient, especially when traveling.

• Purchase and activation

Traditional SIM cards are available at brick-and-mortar stores, and activating them often involves paperwork, such as registration. You can purchase and activate an eSIM online, without leaving your home and without unnecessary procedures.

• Environmental

eSIM is a more environmentally friendly solution because it eliminates the need to manufacture, package, and transport plastic SIM cards.

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Advantages of traveling with an eSIM

Global coverage – with global cards, you can use the internet, make calls, and send texts without extra charges in many countries around the world.

A wide range of affordable packages – no matter where you are, you have access to a wide selection of local tariff plans. This makes using the internet, making calls, and sending text messages convenient and affordable.

Internet sharing via Hotspot – when you purchase a data package through Airalo, you can easily share your internet connection with others using the hotspot feature. This is a great option if you are traveling in a group – all you need is one activated eSIM for everyone to have access to the network, which helps reduce costs.

Instant carrier change – with an eSIM, you can switch to a different carrier, activate a new number or data plan at any time – everything is done online, without the need to remove the card or visit a store.

No risk of losing or damaging your card – unlike physical SIM cards, eSIMs cannot be lost or accidentally damaged because they are permanently installed in the device and do not need to be removed.

More space in your device – no need to install a physical SIM card slot allows device manufacturers to better utilize space for other components.

An eco-friendly solution – eSIM is an environmentally friendly technology – it does not require the production of plastic, transport or disposal of used cards, which contributes to reducing the carbon footprint.

Which devices support eSIM?

Although eSIM technology is gaining popularity, not every device supports it. Below you will find a list of the most commonly used eSIM-compatible devices:

Smartphones:

• Apple: all models from iPhone XR, XS, through the 11, 12, 13, 14 series to the latest 15 – all support eSIM.
• Samsung: Galaxy S series models from S20 upwards (S21, S22, S23), as well as foldable phones from the Z Fold and Z Flip series – most models from 2020 onwards are compatible.
• Google: Pixel 4, 5, 6, 7, 8 and subsequent generations.
• Other brands: selected models such as Xiaomi 12 and 13, Oppo Find X3 and X5, and Huawei P40 also offer eSIM support.

Tablets:

• Apple: iPad Pro, iPad Air, and iPad Mini – versions from 2018 onwards.
• Samsung: Galaxy Tab S7, S8, and S9.

Smartwatches:

• Apple Watch: all models from series 3 onwards support eSIM.
• Samsung Galaxy Watch: series 4, 5 and 6 with LTE module.

Laptops:

• Windows devices: selected models, e.g. Surface Pro equipped with a 5G modem.
• MacBooks: some configurations with Apple M1 and M2 processors offer eSIM support.

Questions and answers

1. Can I use eSIM abroad?

Yes, you can use eSIM abroad – just purchase the appropriate data package from one of the providers, such as Airalo or Holafly, covering the selected country. After activating the plan with a QR code, you can use mobile internet without any problems, without the need to insert a traditional SIM card.

2. Does eSIM work in Poland?

Yes, eSIM technology is available in Poland, and operators such as Orange, Plus, and T-Mobile offer their customers the option of using eSIM. In addition, visitors to Poland can take advantage of international eSIM plans, such as those from Airalo, which work in Poland and many other countries.

3. Where can I buy an eSIM card?

You can purchase an eSIM card online through international platforms such as Airalo, Holafly, and Nomad, which offer travel data packages activated with a QR code. In Poland, eSIM is also available from local operators, including Orange, Plus, and T-Mobile, both in brick-and-mortar stores and on their websites. Before purchasing, it is worth checking whether your device supports eSIM technology.

4. What internet plans offer eSIM abroad?

eSIM data plans for travel, offered by providers such as Airalo, Holafly and Nomad, include packages ranging from 1 GB to unlimited data, valid from 1 day to 90 days, with prices starting at around $4.50. There are national, regional (e.g., Europe, Asia), and global plans available that work in over 200 countries, offering 4G/5G speeds depending on local infrastructure. Before purchasing, it is worth checking whether your device is compatible with eSIM and reviewing the plan details, such as top-up options and data sharing.