How to Use Airalo eSIM — Step by Step
A detailed walkthrough from device check to first connection abroad
Step 1: Verify Device Compatibility
Open your device's Settings application. On iPhone, navigate to Settings → General → About and look for "Available SIM" or "eSIM" entries. On Android, go to Settings → Network → SIM Cards → Add eSIM. If the option exists, your device supports eSIM hardware.
Additionally, confirm your device is carrier-unlocked. In the UK, devices purchased directly from manufacturers (Apple Store, Samsung.com) are typically unlocked. Devices purchased on contract from EE, Vodafone, O2, or Three may be locked — contact your provider to request an unlock code, which is usually provided free of charge after the minimum contract period.
Step 2: Create Your Airalo Account
Download the Airalo app from the App Store (iOS) or Google Play (Android), or visit airalo.com on a desktop browser. Register with your email address and a secure password. Verify your email address via the confirmation link sent to your inbox.
Complete your profile with your name and preferred currency. UK users should note that while plans are priced in USD, your card will be charged in GBP at the prevailing rate.
Step 3: Search and Select a Plan
Use the search bar to find your destination country, region, or select a global plan. Filter results by data size, validity period, and price. Review the plan details page carefully — pay particular attention to: the list of supported countries (for regional plans), whether the validity period starts at purchase or first use, whether top-ups are available, and the fair use policy for unlimited plans.
Compare at least two or three plans before selecting. The cheapest option is not always the best value — consider network quality ratings and customer reviews within the app.
Step 4: Purchase the Plan
Add the selected plan to your cart. At checkout, choose your payment method: credit/debit card or Airmoney credits. Review the order summary, confirm the plan details, and complete payment. Your QR code and installation instructions will be delivered to your registered email address within seconds.
Save the QR code image immediately — take a screenshot and store it in a cloud-accessible location (Google Photos, iCloud, email). You will need it during installation, and it cannot be re-sent if lost (though it remains accessible in the Airalo app).
Step 5: Install the eSIM Profile
iOS (iPhone/iPad): Settings → Cellular → Add Cellular Plan → Use QR Code. Point your camera at the QR code. Confirm installation. Label the plan (e.g., "Japan Trip"). Set it as your secondary line.
Android (Samsung, Google Pixel, etc.): Settings → Connections → SIM Manager → Add eSIM → Scan QR Code. Follow on-screen prompts. The exact menu path varies by manufacturer and Android version.
Important: Installation requires an active internet connection (Wi-Fi or your primary SIM's data). Complete this step before you travel, ideally at home where you have reliable Wi-Fi.
Step 6: Configure Data Settings
After installation, configure your device to use the Airalo eSIM for data while keeping your primary SIM for calls and SMS. On iPhone: Settings → Cellular → set "Cellular Data" to your Airalo eSIM line. Enable "Data Roaming" on the Airalo line. On Android: Settings → Connections → SIM Manager → set Mobile Data to the Airalo eSIM.
Test the configuration by temporarily disabling Wi-Fi and checking that mobile data works via the Airalo eSIM. Then re-enable Wi-Fi for home use.
Step 7: Activate Abroad
Upon arrival at your destination, your device will automatically search for and connect to a compatible local network. This may take 1–3 minutes. If connection does not occur automatically, go to Settings → Cellular/Mobile Data → select your Airalo eSIM → Network Selection → Automatic. Force a manual network scan if needed.
Confirm connectivity by opening a browser or the Airalo app. Your remaining data balance will update in the app within a few minutes of first use.
Step 8: Monitor, Top Up, and Return
Monitor your data usage through the Airalo app's "My eSIMs" section or your device's built-in data usage tracker. Purchase a top-up before your data runs out if the plan supports it. When you return to the UK, switch your primary SIM back to the data line. Your Airalo eSIM remains installed and can be reactivated for future trips by purchasing a new plan — you do not need to reinstall the profile.