How to use a physical SIM and an eSIM at the same time while travelling

If you’re like most travellers, you’ve got a mobile number you’d rather not lose while you’re away — whether it’s for WhatsApp, banking codes, or simply peace of mind. But you also don’t want to face shocking roaming bills. The solution? Use your regular SIM card alongside a travel eSIM from Planet eSIM. It’s easier than you might think.

What you’ll learn

• What dual SIM and eSIM really mean (explained simply)

• Which phones support running both

• How to keep your normal number active for calls and texts

• How to use your Planet eSIM for affordable travel data

• How to manage roaming, apps, and settings so everything works smoothly

First, What is Dual SIM with eSIM?

Dual SIM just means your phone can handle two plans at the same time. One is your physical SIM (the plastic card you already have), and the other is a digital eSIM — a profile you download from Planet eSIM.

With this setup, you don’t need to swap anything out. Your home SIM keeps working for calls and SMS, while your eSIM gives you local mobile data wherever you are. Most recent phones support this, especially Apple and flagship Android devices released in the last few years.

Check If Your Phone Supports It

• Apple iPhone: XS, XR, and all newer models

• Samsung Galaxy: S20 series, S21, S22, S23, Z Fold and newer

• Google Pixel: Pixel 4 and later

(If you’re not sure, our compatibility checker makes it easy.)

Step-by-Step: How to Set It Up

1. Keep your regular SIM card in the tray — this remains your main number.

2. Purchase a plan from Planet eSIM and scan the QR code you receive. This installs the eSIM on your phone in seconds.

3. • Calls & texts → leave on your regular SIM

   • Mobile data → switch to Planet eSIM

     Your phone will then ask which line to use for different functions:

4. Optional: give each line a label (e.g., “Home” and “Planet Travel”).

That’s it. Your calls and messages still come through to your usual number, but all your data runs through Planet eSIM. No roaming fees, no airport queues, no hassle.

Pro Tips For Smooth Travel

• Turn off data roaming on your physical SIM. This avoids accidental roaming charges.

• Keep WhatsApp linked to your regular number — it will use the Planet eSIM data connection, so you stay reachable without extra cost.

• If you use iMessage or FaceTime, they stay linked to your Apple ID or main number. Nothing changes there.

• Set Planet eSIM as your “primary” for mobile data. Leave voice and SMS on your home number.

Why This Makes Travel Easier

Travellers used to face a choice: either stay reachable on their home number and pay huge roaming bills, or buy a local SIM and risk missing important calls and texts. With Planet eSIM, you don’t have to choose.

You can keep your existing number alive for banking codes, family calls, and messaging — while enjoying affordable, reliable data on the road. It truly is the best of both worlds.

The entire process takes just a couple of minutes, and once you’ve tried it, you’ll wonder how you ever travelled without it.