Android eSIM setup guide
How to Install an eSIM on Android Before Travel
Installing an eSIM on Android usually involves checking that your phone supports eSIM, scanning or entering the provider’s activation details, and selecting the eSIM for mobile data. Set it up before departure when possible, but check the plan’s activation rules first so validity does not begin earlier than intended.
Check your phone and plan first
Android menus vary by manufacturer, model and software version, so the wording may not be identical on every device. Look in Mobile Network, SIM Manager or Connections for an option such as Add eSIM or Add mobile plan. If no eSIM option appears, check the phone’s specifications and confirm that it is not locked to a network.
Compatibility is only one part of the decision. Before buying, check the destination coverage, supported countries, data allowance, validity period and whether the plan is data-only. Live price, coverage, activation timing, fair-use rules and compatibility should be confirmed at checkout because these details can change.
Install the eSIM while you have reliable internet
Keep your phone connected to Wi-Fi and have the activation QR code or manual installation details available. Open the SIM settings, choose the option to add an eSIM, then scan the code or enter the requested information. Follow the on-screen prompts until the new line appears in your SIM manager.
Label the line clearly, such as Travel or the destination name. Keep your usual SIM available if you need its number for calls or text messages, but review which line is selected for mobile data. Avoid deleting the eSIM after installation: some plans may not allow the same activation details to be used again.
Choose the right line when you arrive
Before take-off, you can usually leave the travel eSIM switched off if the provider’s instructions allow it. On arrival, enable the eSIM and select it for mobile data. Turn data roaming on only if the provider specifically requires it for that eSIM, and keep roaming disabled on your home line if you want to reduce the risk of using your usual mobile data abroad.
Send a test message through an internet service or open a simple webpage after changing the data line. If it does not connect, check that the eSIM is enabled, the correct line is selected for data, any required network settings were entered correctly, and the plan is active in the destination. Do not assume that a failed connection means the eSIM itself is unusable.
Plan for your actual usage
Maps, messaging and occasional browsing are lighter uses than video calls, photo uploads, streaming or regular hotspot sharing. If you need the eSIM for work, review the guidance on [choosing an eSIM for remote work](/travel/remote-work.html) and consider whether your allowance must cover a laptop as well as your phone.
A plan can be compatible with your handset but still unsuitable for your route or habits. Check hotspot terms, fair-use limits and the validity start point before purchase. Every Stellar eSIM purchase includes Stellar VPN for the same validity period as the eSIM plan, which may be useful if you want that service while travelling.
Frequently asked questions
Can I install an eSIM before I leave home?
Often, yes, and Wi-Fi at home is usually more convenient than trying to install it after landing. Check the provider’s activation instructions first, because some plans begin their validity when installed or when they first connect.
Should my Android phone use the travel eSIM for calls?
That depends on the plan. Many travel eSIMs are intended for data, so keep your regular line for calls or messages if needed and select the travel eSIM only for mobile data.
What should I do if the QR code will not scan?
Use the manual installation details if they are provided. Also check that the code is displayed clearly, your phone is online, and the eSIM has not already been installed or used.
Will installing an eSIM delete my existing SIM?
Adding an eSIM normally creates another mobile line rather than deleting your physical SIM. Confirm the available SIM slots and label each line so you can select the correct one.
Check the details before you install
Compare the current plan information for your destination, then confirm compatibility, activation timing, coverage, validity and hotspot rules at checkout.
How we compare plans
Our guidance starts with the trip, not the sales pitch. We look at where you are going, how long you will stay, how you use your phone and whether you need one country or several. Always check the latest plan terms, supported networks, device compatibility and local coverage before purchase.
The plan list is updated from current Stellar offers. Availability can change, so confirm the final price, networks, activation rules and fair-use conditions at checkout.
Clear disclosure
Plan links may contain tracking parameters. This identifies which comparison site referred an order and does not increase the displayed price.