Quick answer: make sure the travel eSIM line is switched on, set as your mobile data line, and has Data Roaming turned on. Then switch Aeroplane Mode on and off. Most travel eSIMs need roaming on to connect, even though you won't be charged roaming fees by the eSIM provider.
1. Check the three key settings
iPhone
- Go to Settings > Mobile Data (or Mobile Service).
- Tap your travel eSIM and check Turn On This Line is on.
- Tap Mobile Data Options and turn on Data Roaming.
- Go back, tap Mobile Data and choose the travel eSIM.
Android (Google Pixel)
- Go to Settings > Network & internet > SIMs.
- Tap your travel SIM and turn on Use SIM and Roaming.
- Back on the SIMs screen, tap Mobile data and pick the travel SIM.
- Turn off Automatic data switching so data stays on the eSIM.
Samsung Galaxy
- Go to Settings > Connections > SIM manager and make sure the eSIM is on and chosen for mobile data.
- Go to Connections > Mobile networks and turn on Data Roaming.
2. Still nothing? Work down this list
Toggle Aeroplane Mode
Turn it on for at least 15 seconds, then off. This makes your phone search for networks again.
Restart properly
On iPhone, restart as normal. On a Pixel, Google suggests powering off (not Restart), waiting 30 seconds, then powering on.
Pick a network yourself
If the eSIM's automatic choice isn't connecting, choose a local network by hand. On Samsung: Mobile networks > Network operators. On Pixel, open the SIM's settings and tap Network. Your eSIM provider's app or email usually says which networks it uses.
Check the APN (only if your provider says so)
Some eSIMs need an APN entered. On iPhone it's Settings > Mobile Data > Mobile Data Network; on Pixel it's in the SIM's settings under APN. Only change it if your provider gives you the details.
Check for a carrier settings update (iPhone)
Go to Settings > General > About. If an update is waiting, a prompt appears.
Reset mobile network settings
Pixel: Settings > System > Reset options > Reset mobile network settings. Samsung: Settings > General management > Reset > Reset mobile network settings. This won't delete your eSIM, but you may need to set roaming and the data line again.
Contact your eSIM provider
If nothing works, the plan may not be active yet or the network may have a fault. Have your order details ready.
Avoid roaming charges on your UK SIM
If you keep your UK line switched on for calls and texts, Apple notes you may still pay roaming fees on it. To be safe, turn Data Roaming off for your UK line and leave it on only for the travel eSIM. See how to turn off data roaming.
New on iPhone: with iOS 26 or later, your iPhone may show a "Turn On Travel eSIM" prompt when you arrive, letting you choose the travel eSIM only or both lines. Apple says it can switch the travel eSIM off when you get home.
Need a travel eSIM?
Data eSIMs for 27 destinations, set up before you fly. Keep your UK number for calls and texts.
FAQs
Why does my travel eSIM need data roaming on?
Your phone treats any network that isn't your eSIM provider's home network as roaming. Travel eSIMs use partner networks abroad, so the phone won't connect unless roaming is on for that line. The roaming cost is already in the price you paid for the eSIM.
Can I set up an eSIM after I land?
You can, but you'll need Wi-Fi to download and activate it. It's easier to install it at home a day or two before you fly and switch it on when you arrive.
My eSIM shows signal bars but no internet. What now?
This usually means the eSIM isn't chosen as your mobile data line, or data roaming is off for it. Check those first, then try Aeroplane Mode and the APN your provider gives you.
Will I still get texts from my bank?
Yes, if your UK line is switched on. Texts are received as normal, and turning off data roaming on your UK line doesn't stop calls or texts.
Steps checked on 2 November 2026 against official help pages: Apple: travel eSIM · Apple: No Service · Google Pixel help · Samsung UK. Menu names can vary slightly by phone model and software version.