Top eSIM Mistakes Travellers Make (and How to Avoid Them)

eSIMs have made staying connected abroad easier than ever. No more queuing at airport kiosks or fiddling with tiny SIM trays – you simply scan a QR code, install your plan, and go. But while the technology itself is wonderfully simple, there are still a few common pitfalls that can trip travellers up along the way.

Here are the top mistakes people make with eSIMs – and, more importantly, how to avoid them so your trip stays stress-free and fully connected.

1. Installing the eSIM too late

Many travellers wait until they land to install their eSIM, often thinking it’ll “start counting down” the moment they scan the QR code. In reality, most eSIMs – including Planet eSIM plans – only activate once you arrive in the destination and connect to a local network.

That means you can safely install your eSIM before you even leave home. Doing this ensures that everything is set up and ready to go, so you’re not fumbling through phone settings at the airport or when you first arrive at your hotel.

Tip: Always install before your trip. Your plan will activate automatically on arrival – no need to worry about “starting the clock” early.

2. Forgetting to turn on Data Roaming

This one’s easy to miss. To allow your eSIM to connect to networks abroad, your phone’s Data Roaming setting must be switched on. If it’s off, your device won’t connect, even if the eSIM has been installed correctly.

On iPhone, go to Settings › Mobile Data › Your Planet eSIM › Data Roaming and toggle it on. On Android, the path varies slightly, but you’ll usually find it under Network & Internet › Mobile Networks › Data Roaming.

Tip: Make sure Data Roaming is on for the eSIM line itself, not your home SIM – they’re separate settings!

3. Leaving the wrong SIM selected for mobile data

If you’re using a dual SIM phone, your home SIM may remain set as the default for data. That means your device could continue using your regular mobile plan – which can lead to expensive roaming charges.

After installing your eSIM, head to your phone’s data settings and make sure your Planet eSIM is selected as the Mobile Data Line. You can still keep your home SIM active for calls or messages, but data should be routed through the eSIM while travelling.

Tip: On iPhone, go to Settings › Mobile Data › Mobile Data and choose your eSIM. On Android, find the “Preferred SIM for Data” setting.

4. Not checking compatibility before purchase

Most modern phones now support eSIMs — but not all. Some older devices and certain carrier-locked phones (especially from the US) may not allow eSIM installation, even if they’re technically eSIM-capable.

Before you buy, check your phone’s compatibility. If you’re unsure, Planet eSIM has a handy compatible device list covering all major models. It only takes a minute to check and can save a lot of frustration later on.

Tip: iPhones from XS and newer, and most flagship Androids from the last few years (Samsung Galaxy S20+, Google Pixel 4+, etc.), all support eSIM.

5. Mixing up QR codes and camera apps

When it’s time to install your eSIM, it’s important to use the correct method. Many travellers accidentally open their phone’s regular camera app to scan the QR code – but that won’t work.

You need to go through your phone’s settings instead:
Settings › Mobile Data › Add eSIM › Use QR Code. Once you scan it here, your phone automatically loads the correct data profile.

Tip: If scanning doesn’t work, you can always install your plan manually using the “LPA” activation code included in your Planet eSIM email.

6. Deleting the eSIM after use

It’s tempting to tidy up your phone and delete an old eSIM after a trip, but it’s best to wait until you’re absolutely sure it’s expired and no longer needed. If you delete it too early, you can’t reinstall it later using the same QR code – for security reasons, each code only works once.

Tip: Leave your eSIM installed until the plan expires (you can check expiry in your Planet eSIM dashboard). Once it’s fully used, you can safely remove it from your device.

7. Forgetting to check data usage

Every plan has its limit, and if you’re using maps, streaming, or posting videos, it’s easy to burn through data faster than expected. Luckily, Planet eSIM makes this easy to monitor.

Simply tap the unique link in your activation email to open your Usage Dashboard. There, you can view remaining data, your plan’s expiry date, and top-up options (if available for your destination).

Tip: Download maps for offline use before travelling to save data – Google Maps and Maps.me both allow this.

8. Ignoring local network connection options

Sometimes, local network conditions can vary – for example, one carrier might have stronger signal in cities, while another performs better in rural areas. If you find your speed is slower than expected, try manually switching networks in your phone settings.

Tip: On Android, go to Settings › Mobile Networks › Network Operators and try a different carrier. On iPhone, this happens automatically – but you can toggle Airplane Mode off and on again to refresh the connection.

9. Assuming one eSIM works everywhere

Not all eSIMs are global. Some plans only cover one country, while others – like regional and global eSIMs from Planet – work across multiple destinations. If you’re travelling through several countries, check your coverage area before you buy to avoid surprises at the border.

Tip: Multi-country plans are ideal for road trips or backpacking adventures. See all regional options on our Regional Plans page.

10. Not saving your confirmation email

Your eSIM confirmation email includes your QR code, manual activation details, and your personal usage link. Accidentally deleting it can make troubleshooting trickier while abroad – especially if you need to recheck details offline.

Tip: Save your email or take a screenshot of your QR code and keep it in your photo gallery or files app before you travel.

Final thoughts

eSIMs make international travel simpler than ever – but just like packing the right charger or checking your passport date, a little preparation goes a long way. By avoiding these common mistakes, you’ll ensure your Planet eSIM works smoothly from the moment you arrive, letting you focus on the trip itself instead of the tech behind it.

Ready to travel smarter? Explore our full range of destination and regional eSIMs at esim.planet.uk and stay connected wherever you roam.