Your next trip starts here.
Your cart is empty. Choose a destination to get started.
Browse destinationsIn this guide 3 sections
Start with what the handset can use
If the exact model doesn’t support eSIM, the decision is straightforward: choose a compatible physical SIM, home-carrier roaming or a separate Wi-Fi connection. If it does, confirm that it’s unlocked before buying another provider’s service. Our compatibility checker helps with the model and sales-region check.
An eSIM can leave a physical Australian SIM in its tray, where the phone supports that line combination. A physical travel SIM may instead replace the home card, so keep the removed card and tray tool secure. Some phones have no physical tray at all; use the exact model’s specifications rather than advice for a similarly named overseas version.
Keeping your number is a separate decision
A data-only travel eSIM doesn’t take over the Australian number. You can use internet messaging and app calls through its data, while ordinary calls, SMS and bank codes remain with the relevant phone-number service.
Keeping the home line switched on may be useful, but its overseas calls, voicemail and other charges still follow the carrier’s terms. Set the travel line for data and keep home-line data roaming and automatic switching off unless you deliberately intend otherwise.
Which format fits the arrival?
Choose eSIM if the phone supports it and you’d prefer to download the service after landing instead of collecting a card. Choose physical SIM if that’s what the phone can use or a specific local offer suits the trip better, allowing for its collection, registration and setup process.
For our eSIMs, buy and save the email before travelling, then install after landing on steady Wi-Fi that can load a normal webpage. The format removes the tray swap; it doesn’t remove the need to match the actual plan to the trip.
