How to Buy & Activate Airalo eSIM on iPhone/Android (Step-by-Step Tutorial), by The Checklist Review on YouTube. 8 min 10 s.
- Video length
- 8 min 10 s
- Time to do it
- 15 minutes
- Difficulty
- Easy
- Steps
- 9
What you need
Steps
Check that your phone supports eSIM. On iPhone open Settings, General, About and look for an EID or IMEI2. On Android dial *#06# and look for an EID number.
Confirm your phone is carrier unlocked. Contact your home carrier if you are unsure, because a locked phone will not accept a travel eSIM.
Decide between a local, regional or global plan. A local plan covers one country, a regional plan covers several countries in one area, and a global plan covers many countries at a higher price.
Open the Airalo app or website, search your destination and pick a data package that matches your trip length and data needs.
At checkout, enter your promo code in the promo field and apply it before you pay. Check the discounted total, then complete the purchase.
Install the eSIM. On iPhone tap Install on the order page, then follow the prompt to add the cellular plan. On Android scan the QR code from the order with your camera and confirm the download.
Leave the new line switched off until you reach your destination. Do not turn it on at home, or the plan validity may start early.
When you land, turn on the Airalo line and set it as your mobile data line. Turn off automatic data switching so your home SIM does not use data.
If you see No Service, check that the Airalo line is on, data roaming is enabled for that line only, you are in a covered area, and the phone has restarted once.
Tips and common mistakes
Never delete the eSIM profile from your phone, even after the trip ends, because it cannot be reinstalled.
Keep your home SIM active for calls and texts but set data to the Airalo line to avoid roaming charges.
Buy and install the eSIM on Wi-Fi before you travel so you are not stuck at the airport without a connection.
Screenshot the QR code and order details in case you need to reinstall on another device.
Questions
Can I use an Airalo eSIM on a carrier-locked phone?
No. The phone must be carrier unlocked before it will accept a travel eSIM. Ask your home carrier to it first.
When should I activate the Airalo eSIM?
Turn the line on after you land at your destination. Activating at home can start the plan's validity before your trip.
Will I lose my normal phone number?
No. Your home SIM stays in the phone for calls and texts. The eSIM only handles mobile data.
This guide was drafted from the video's details and general task knowledge. It has not been checked against the full video. Check the video and relevant product instructions before following a procedure. Report a correction.
