eSIMoxWhy a travel eSIM may need roaming enabled
A travel eSIM can connect through partner mobile networks rather than a network owned by the company that sold the package. Its setup instructions may therefore require data roaming on the travel line. This is separate from enabling expensive roaming on your home subscription. Read the instructions for the installed profile and covered destination; do not copy settings from a different provider. Keep a record of the intended settings before making changes, particularly when two SIMs are active and their names are similar.
Set the data line on iPhone
Open Settings and Cellular or Mobile Data, then choose the travel eSIM as the mobile-data line. Open that line’s settings to confirm it is enabled and apply the provider’s roaming instruction. Review Allow Cellular Data Switching and the separate home-line roaming toggle so a failed travel connection does not silently become home mobile data. Labels vary with region and software version. If you need your home number for calls or SMS, its voice-line setting is a separate decision; choosing the travel line for data does not automatically remove all home-carrier charges.
Set the data line on Android
On Pixel, start at Settings, Network & Internet, then SIMs. Select the travel profile, enable it and choose it for mobile data; apply its required roaming setting. Samsung and other Android phones may place these controls under Connections or SIM Manager instead. Review automatic data switching and data-during-calls options if available. Do not turn roaming on for both lines simply because the travel eSIM needs it. If a menu differs from the provider’s screenshots, match the function and exact SIM label, or use the manufacturer’s instructions for your model.
Change APN and network selection only when instructed
Some packages configure the access point name automatically; others supply an exact APN in their installation instructions. Enter only those details and only on the travel line. Leave passwords, proxy settings and other fields unchanged unless the provider explicitly specifies them. Automatic network selection is a sensible starting point, but support may ask you to choose a named supported operator. A visible local network is not proof your plan can use it. Save the original setting before changing it so you can reverse an unsuccessful manual selection.
Test the settings and keep a fallback
At your destination, briefly switch Wi-Fi off and open a small webpage. Confirm the travel package is active and inspect its balance afterward. If there is signal but no internet, check the data line, roaming requirement, balance and APN before changing unrelated phone settings. If registration fails, try a brief airplane-mode cycle and restart, then consult the troubleshooting steps. Use airport or hotel Wi-Fi for support if needed. Do not delete a profile or reset the whole phone as the first response to a connection problem.
Sources & further reading
Sources reviewed 2026-11-02. Check current provider terms before purchasing.