How to install a travel eSIM on Android (Samsung and Pixel)

Updated 2026-09-27

The steps differ a little between Android brands, but always follow the same shape: add the eSIM, choose it for mobile data, and turn on roaming for it. Install it before you travel, while you are on Wi-Fi.

Before you start

• Connect to Wi-Fi.
• Have your eSIM email open on another screen, or print the QR code, so you can scan it with your phone's camera.
• Check your phone supports eSIM and is unlocked: see how to check.

Samsung Galaxy

1. Open Settings > Connections > SIM manager.
2. Tap Add eSIM, then Scan QR code from service provider.
3. Scan the code from your eSIM email and confirm.
4. Give the eSIM a name such as "Travel".
5. In SIM manager, under Preferred SIM, set Mobile data to the travel eSIM when you want to use it.

When you arrive, go to Settings > Connections > Mobile networks and turn on Data roaming.

Google Pixel

1. Open Settings > Network & internet > SIMs.
2. Tap Add SIM (or the + button), then choose to download or set up an eSIM.
3. Scan the code from your eSIM email and follow the prompts.
4. Give the eSIM a name such as "Travel".

When you arrive, open Settings > Network & internet > SIMs, tap the travel eSIM, turn on Roaming, and set it as your mobile data SIM.

Other Android phones

Look in your mobile network or SIM settings for an option such as "Add eSIM", "Add mobile plan" or "Download a SIM". Then set the eSIM for mobile data and turn on data roaming for it.

Tip: Turn off data roaming for your home SIM, so your usual carrier cannot charge you for data abroad.

If it does not connect

• Check roaming is on for the travel eSIM — the most common cause.
• Check mobile data is set to the travel eSIM, not your home SIM.
• Turn Airplane mode on for a few seconds and off again.
• Check your plan covers the country you are in.

Do not delete the eSIM while troubleshooting: most eSIM QR codes can only be installed once.