Can I Switch Between Multiple eSIM Profiles While Traveling?

Switching between different eSIM plans on your phone isn’t just for tech geeks or frequent flyers. It’s becoming a day-to-day feature for anyone who wants better control over mobile data, call rates, and coverage. But before we jump into the how-to, let’s start with the basics.

First, what is an eSIM? It’s a small, built-in digital SIM that replaces the traditional physical card. Instead of swapping SIM cards, you can activate new plans with just a QR code or an app. This makes it easy to switch between personal and work numbers, grab local plans when traveling, or test out new carriers for better deals. eSIM functionality also allows for dual SIM functionality on many modern smartphones, enabling users to manage multiple lines or plans easily.

Using multiple eSIMs means no more carrying two phones or worrying about SIM ejector tools. And if your phone supports it, you can store several plans at once and switch them as needed. However, not all devices are eSIM compatible, so users should check if their device is an eSIM compatible device before proceeding. eSIMs are especially useful for international travel, as they help avoid data roaming charges and provide seamless connectivity abroad.

In this blog, we’ll cover everything—from setup to switching on both iPhone and Android. We’ll also walk through advanced tips, troubleshooting, and when to get your carrier involved.

Introduction to eSIM

eSIM (embedded SIM) technology is transforming the way we connect to mobile networks. Unlike a traditional physical SIM card, an eSIM is a digital version built directly into your device’s hardware. This embedded SIM allows you to store multiple eSIM profiles on a single phone, making it easy to manage several cellular plans without ever swapping out a physical SIM. With eSIM technology, you can add, remove, or switch between different plans with just a few taps—no more fumbling with tiny SIM cards or worrying about losing them.

The ability to manage multiple eSIM profiles is a game-changer for anyone who needs flexible mobile connectivity. Whether you’re a frequent traveler who wants to take advantage of local data rates, a professional juggling work and personal numbers, or simply someone who likes to optimize data usage, eSIM technology puts you in control. You can store multiple eSIMs on your device, label them for easy identification, and switch between them as your needs change. This digital approach to SIM management not only streamlines your experience but also opens up new possibilities for how you use your phone across different regions and networks.

Before You Start: Prerequisites

Before diving into the eSIM switching process, it’s important to ensure a few key things are in place. Not every phone or network supports seamless switching, and being prepared can save time and avoid issues. Start by checking if your device can handle multiple eSIMs. To verify eSIM support, check if your phone supports eSIM by looking in your device settings for an EID or consulting the manufacturer’s documentation.

Popular eSIM compatible devices include recent iPhones, Samsung Galaxy models, and Google Pixel phones, all of which can store multiple eSIM profiles and allow easy switching between networks.

Make sure your internet connection is active for the installation and switching process, and have your new eSIM details ready—either via QR code or carrier app. These steps are your groundwork for a smooth setup. Managing multiple eSIMs is straightforward on supported devices, but always confirm compatibility first. To check if your device supports eSIM technology, look for an EID in your device’s settings or refer to the manufacturer’s documentation.

Phone Compatibility

To utilize an eSIM, your phone must have eSIM capabilities, and it should support multiple eSIM profiles. Most modern smartphones can store multiple eSIM profiles, typically between five to eight, but only one or two eSIM profiles can be active at the same time.

Device-specific limits vary: iPhone 12, 13, and 14 can store up to eight eSIM profiles and support two active eSIMs simultaneously. iPhones typically allow up to 8 eSIM profiles stored, while Android devices can store up to 7, depending on the model. Google Pixel devices typically allow users to store four to five eSIM profiles, with only one eSIM active at a time alongside a physical SIM card, and the primary eSIM can be selected as needed. Samsung Galaxy smartphones support dual active eSIMs in newer models, allowing two eSIM profiles to operate simultaneously. Newer smartphones, like iPhone 13+ and Pixel 7+, can often support two active eSIMs simultaneously.

Quick Hint

Some devices allow an active eSIM alongside a physical SIM, providing additional flexibility for managing both a physical SIM and eSIM at the same time. On some older models, only one active eSIM is supported at a time, and only one eSIM can be active, even if multiple profiles are stored. The concept of dual active eSIMs and two active eSIMs is especially useful for users who need to manage multiple lines or plans simultaneously, such as for travel or separating work and personal numbers.

Many recent, modern smartphones like iPhones (e.g., iPhone XS and newer), and many newer flagship Android models are capable of being “dual SIM”. That being said, not all models allow the use of more than one eSIM at a time. To avoid confusion, you should always consult the technical specifications of your phone before attempting to switch between plans to make sure your phone allows for multiple eSIM plans, how many eSIM profiles can be stored, and how many eSIMs can be active on your specific device.

Active Internet Connection

A stable internet connection is crucial when managing eSIMs. Whether you’re installing a new plan or switching between existing ones, the process requires a short connection to carrier servers. Wi-Fi is preferred during setup, especially when adding a new plan. Cellular data can also work, but may be limited if the current plan is inactive or has expired.

Having the eSIM Plans Ready

Before you begin, gather all the eSIM plans you plan to use. These can be provided via QR codes from your mobile carrier or installed through their official apps. Make sure these QR codes are not blurry or expired. If you’ve received the eSIM digitally via email, ensure you’ve saved a copy offline for easy access during installation.

How eSIM Switching Works (The Big Picture)

Switching between eSIM plans means toggling between saved profiles on your phone. You don’t need to delete a plan to activate another. Instead, you can keep several stored and choose the one you want to use for data, calls, or messages. Managing multiple profiles is straightforward and allows you to optimize your mobile plan for different needs, such as travel, work, or personal use.

Switching eSIM profiles allows you to access local data rates, ensuring cost-effective and reliable internet access as you move from country to country. eSIM data plans and regional eSIM plans are especially useful for international travelers, as they help avoid inflated international charges and provide affordable data plans tailored to your destination. Using local data via an eSIM is often far cheaper than roaming, and eSIMs allow travelers to maintain access to their home number while using local data rates abroad.

For example, you can use a Spain eSIM when traveling in Spain to benefit from local rates and easy switching. eSIM data is available in a variety of prepaid data plans, which can be tailored to your travel or usage needs. Understanding how the system works helps you avoid confusion or accidental plan deletion.

Installing vs. Activating vs. Switching

Installing an eSIMs means adding the plan to your phone, usually through a QR code or an app. Activating means enabling that plan for use. Switching is simply turning off the current eSIM and enabling another from the list you’ve already installed. These are three different steps, and knowing the difference helps avoid unnecessary errors. Once installed, most eSIMs stay on your phone even if not active.

Managing Multiple Installed eSIM Profiles

Most modern smartphones let you install several eSIM profiles, though you can only activate one or two at a time. You can label them as “Work,” “Travel,” or “Personal” for easier tracking. Managing multiple eSIMs and managing multiple profiles is made easy through your device’s eSIM management interface, which allows you to add, store, activate, and maintain several profiles for travel or domestic use. This helps avoid accidentally using the wrong plan, especially if one has roaming charges or limited data. The management area is where you turn them on or off and set priorities.

Setting the Default Line for Data/Calls

You can pick which eSIM plan to use for mobile data, voice calls, and texts. Your phone will continue using that plan unless you manually switch it. This setting is especially useful if you have one plan for cheap calls and another for high-speed data. When switching to a travel eSIM for data, make sure your primary eSIM (or primary line) remains on for calls or SMS, but has Data Roaming turned off to avoid extra charges. Also, ensure ‘Allow Cellular Data Switching’ is disabled to prevent your phone from automatically using your home plan if the travel signal weakens. Changing your default line only takes a few taps and can be adjusted anytime.

How to Buy and Install a Travel eSIM

Getting started with a travel eSIM is easier than ever, thanks to the growing number of providers and the straightforward installation process. To buy a travel eSIM, simply choose a provider—such as Nomad eSIM or another reputable service—and select the plan that fits your needs. After purchase, you’ll receive a QR code or a download link for your eSIM profile. Most Android devices and iPhones that support eSIM technology make it simple to add this new plan: just open your device settings, navigate to the cellular or mobile data section, and scan the QR code or enter the details provided by your service provider.

Once installed, your travel eSIM profile will appear alongside any other eSIM profiles you have on your device. You can manage all your eSIM plans directly from your device settings, making it easy to switch between local eSIMs, international plans, or your primary line. This flexibility is especially valuable when traveling abroad, as you can quickly activate a local eSIM to access affordable data and stay connected without the hassle of swapping physical SIM cards.

By storing multiple eSIM profiles, you’re always ready to switch plans and manage your data usage efficiently, ensuring seamless connectivity wherever you go. Always check your device’s compatibility with eSIM technology before purchasing, so you can take full advantage of this modern approach to mobile connectivity. If you’re changing devices, learn how to transfer an eSIM from one Android phone to another to maintain a smooth connection.

Conclusion

eSIMs have changed how we use mobile networks. Whether you’re managing multiple lines, separating work from personal life, or just looking for cheaper data while traveling—eSIM switching puts you in control. Unlike physical SIMs, you don’t need to carry tiny tools or worry about losing your SIM tray. Just a few taps, and your phone is connected to a whole new plan.

From checking compatibility to setting defaults and troubleshooting, each step has been designed to give you more freedom and fewer headaches. With a little preparation and practice, switching between eSIMs becomes second nature. And once you get the hang of it, you’ll never want to go back to the old way. This flexibility isn’t just a nice-to-have feature—it’s a smarter way to stay connected in today’s mobile-first world.