Find answers to the most common questions about Airalo eSIM plans, device compatibility, activation, and coverage. Use the links below to jump to a specific section.
Airalo is a global eSIM marketplace founded in Singapore in 2019. It allows travellers to purchase and activate mobile data plans for over 200 countries directly from their smartphone, without needing a physical SIM card. Plans are delivered digitally and can be installed in minutes. Airalo is not affiliated with AireloNet — we are an independent information service.
No. AireloNet is an independent information service based in Sheffield, UK. We are not affiliated with, endorsed by, or acting as an agent of Airalo Pte. Ltd. We provide guidance to help UK travellers understand and use Airalo's services, but we do not sell plans, process payments, or manage Airalo accounts.
Since Brexit, UK travellers no longer benefit from EU roaming rights, meaning UK providers can charge roaming fees in EU countries. Even outside the EU, roaming charges from UK providers can be significant. Airalo eSIM plans typically offer much lower data costs than roaming, with the added convenience of instant activation before you travel.
Most Airalo plans are data-only. Some plans include voice calls and SMS, but these are less common. If you need to make calls, check the plan details carefully before purchasing, or use your UK SIM for calls while using the Airalo eSIM for data.
Device Compatibility
On iPhone: go to Settings > General > About. If you see an "Available SIM" or "eSIM" section, your device supports eSIM. On Android: go to Settings > Connections > SIM Manager. If you see an "Add eSIM" option, your device is compatible. You can also check your device model against Airalo's compatibility list on their website.
A network-locked device may not be able to use an eSIM from a different provider. Contact your UK network provider to request an unlock. Most providers will unlock devices free of charge once the contract period has ended. Some providers may charge a small fee for early unlocking.
This varies by device. Most modern iPhones can store up to 8 eSIM profiles (with 2 active simultaneously). Samsung Galaxy devices typically support up to 5 profiles. Google Pixel devices generally support up to 5 profiles. Only one eSIM can be active for data at a time on most devices.
Activation
You can install the eSIM profile on your device before you travel (recommended), but you should only enable it when you arrive at your destination. This is because some plans start their validity period when you first connect to the local network, not when you install the profile. Check the specific plan's terms on Airalo's platform.
If the QR code does not scan, try the following: ensure good lighting, clean your camera lens, hold the phone steady, and try from a different distance. If scanning still fails, use the manual activation option — enter the SM-DP+ address and activation code provided in your Airalo confirmation email. Full instructions are on our Process page.
If you delete an eSIM profile from your device, it cannot be reinstalled using the original QR code (QR codes are single-use). Contact Airalo's customer support immediately via their app or website. In some cases, Airalo may be able to issue a replacement profile, but this is not guaranteed and depends on their policy at the time.
Coverage
Check the plan details on Airalo's website for your specific destination. Each plan page lists the network partners and coverage areas. You can also visit our Service Area page for general coverage information and UK-specific notes.
Coverage in rural areas depends on the destination country and the specific network partner. In most developed countries, 4G coverage extends to many rural areas, but remote regions, mountains, and small islands may have limited or no coverage. Check the network partner's own coverage map for the most accurate information.
Billing and Refunds
Refund eligibility is determined by Airalo's refund policy. Generally, refunds are available for plans that have not been installed on a device. Once a plan has been installed (even if not yet activated), it may not be eligible for a refund. For billing disputes, contact Airalo's customer support directly via their app or website. AireloNet cannot process refunds on Airalo purchases.
No. Airalo plans operate on a use-it-or-lose-it basis. Unused data does not roll over when the plan expires. To avoid waste, choose a plan with a data allowance that matches your expected usage. You can top up your plan in the Airalo app if you run out of data before the plan expires.
Full Glossary
The following definitions cover the key terms used throughout this site.
eSIM (Embedded SIM)
A digital SIM card built into your device that can be programmed remotely with a mobile data plan. Unlike a physical SIM, an eSIM does not need to be physically swapped when changing providers or plans.
QR Code Activation
The standard method for installing an Airalo eSIM profile. After purchasing a plan, Airalo provides a QR code that you scan with your device's camera to download and install the eSIM profile.
APN (Access Point Name)
A configuration setting that defines how your device connects to the mobile network. Some Airalo plans require manual APN configuration to enable data connectivity.
Data Roaming
Using mobile data on a network other than your home network, typically when abroad. Airalo eSIM plans provide an alternative to expensive roaming charges from UK providers.
IMEI (International Mobile Equipment Identity)
A unique 15-digit number that identifies your mobile device. Used to check if a device supports eSIM and whether it is network-unlocked. Find your IMEI by dialling *#06# on your device.
Dual SIM
A device feature that allows two SIM profiles to be active simultaneously. On most modern smartphones, this means one physical SIM and one eSIM can be used at the same time.
Local Plan
An Airalo eSIM plan that covers a single country. Local plans are typically the most affordable option for travellers visiting one destination.
Regional Plan
An Airalo eSIM plan that covers multiple countries within a defined region (e.g., Europe, Asia). Regional plans are convenient for multi-country trips within the same region.
Global Plan
An Airalo eSIM plan that covers destinations across multiple regions worldwide. Global plans are best for frequent travellers or complex multi-continent itineraries.
Independent Service
A service that operates without affiliation to the companies it provides information about. AireloNet is an independent service — we are not affiliated with Airalo and our guidance is not influenced by commercial relationships with them.