Travel Smart: Don’t Let These eSIM Mistakes Ruin Your Trip

eSIMs make travel easier than ever — but even the smartest tech can cause frustration if set up incorrectly. Many travelers still make small but costly mistakes that lead to lost connections, wasted data, or unnecessary roaming fees.
Let’s go through the five most common eSIM mistakes and how to avoid them.


1️⃣ Not Checking Device Compatibility

Before buying an eSIM, always check whether your device supports it.

Many older phones or regional models don’t have eSIM capability.

How to avoid:

  • Check your phone’s specifications online (search “eSIM compatible + your phone model”)

  • Ensure your device is unlocked for international carriers

  • Avoid buying eSIMs for secondary or carrier-locked devices

Pro Tip: iPhone 11 and newer, Samsung S20 and newer, and Google Pixel 6+ models fully support eSIMs.


2️⃣ Forgetting to Activate eSIM Before Departure

A common mistake: travelers wait until they land to install their eSIM — only to realize they need Wi-Fi to complete activation.
No internet = no activation = no connection.

How to avoid:

  • Always activate and test your eSIM at home before traveling

  • Make sure data connection works and you can toggle profiles easily

  • Keep a backup QR code saved offline or printed


3️⃣ Ignoring APN Settings

Some devices don’t automatically load APN (Access Point Name) settings. Without this, your data won’t connect, even if your eSIM is active.

How to avoid:

  • Go to your phone’s mobile settings → add APN manually (details from your provider)

  • Restart your device after saving

  • Test by opening a browser or speed test app


4️⃣ Not Managing Data Usage Wisely

Streaming HD videos or using GPS all day can drain your data faster than expected. Many travelers assume eSIM data is unlimited — it’s not.

How to avoid:

  • Download Google Maps offline

  • Stream at lower quality (480p or 720p)

  • Use apps like DataEye or GlassWire to track data usage

  • Choose a data plan that fits your trip length and habits


5️⃣ Deleting the eSIM Profile by Accident

Some users remove their eSIM after switching networks, not realizing it can’t always be reinstalled without contacting the provider.

How to avoid:

  • Never delete your eSIM profile — just disable it if not in use

  • Rename it (e.g., “Europe Travel”) to avoid confusion

  • Keep your QR code or activation email safe in your inbox


Bonus Tip: Dual SIM Confusion

Using a physical SIM and eSIM together? Make sure your default data line is correctly assigned — or your phone might switch to the wrong one mid-trip.

Go to:
Settings → Cellular → Default for Data → Select eSIM (Globanetic)


Avoiding these small mistakes ensures a smooth travel experience — no dropped connections, no wasted data, no stress.
With Globanetic eSIMs, setup is simplified, APN auto-configures for most devices, and you get 24/7 multilingual support across Europe.

Travel smart. Stay connected.
Choose Globanetic — your eSIM partner for a seamless journey.