What Is an eSIM UK? Your Guide to Cheaper, Smarter Travel Data

Written by the Sim Local team
We’ve helped over 10 million travellers stay connected in the UK and beyond. Whether it’s your first eSIM or your fifth. Our team includes airport staff, mobile tech experts and travellers who test our plans daily to make sure setup is smooth, prices stay low and support is always there when you need it

What Is an eSIM in the UK? Everything You Need to Know

A UK eSIM is a digital SIM card that gives you mobile data while you're in the United Kingdom. You don’t need a plastic SIM or a visit to a phone shop. Just buy online, scan a code, and your phone connects in minutes.

Most newer phones, including iPhones, Samsung Galaxy and Google Pixel, support eSIM. Not sure if yours does? Check our compatibility guide.

Whether you’re visiting from the US, Europe, Asia or anywhere else, a UK eSIM is the simplest way to stay connected during your trip. You can check maps, book taxis, scroll social media or call home without relying on slow airport Wi-Fi or paying your provider extra to roam.

Sim Local eSIMs don’t just give you data. Many of the sim local plans include calls and texts and allow you a second local number to use if you wish. You’ll still be able to use apps like WhatsApp, iMessage and FaceTime as usual, and your original number stays active too.

Unlike some global eSIM providers, Sim Local connects you directly to a UK network when you select a UK eSIM plan. That means your data won’t slow down just because you're a visitor. You get the same priority as a local, even when the network is busy.

Already know what an eSIM is? Browse our UK eSIM plans now.

What exactly is an eSIM?

By now, you know a UK eSIM connects you to mobile data without needing a physical SIM card. But how does it actually work?

An eSIM is built directly into your phone’s hardware. Instead of inserting anything, you activate it by scanning a QR code or entering a few details in your phone’s settings. That installs a network profile, and within minutes, you’re connected.

It’s the same end result as a regular SIM and depending on the plan, an eSIM will allow you calls, texts and data… without any of the plastic or postage.

Still wondering how it’s different? Here’s a quick look:

Why eSIMs Matter in the UK (Especially for Travel)

Roaming is expensive. Some UK networks now charge £6 to £8 per day just for data when you travel. That adds up quickly on longer trips.

An eSIM gives you local rates wherever you're going. Choose your destination, scan a code, and you're connected in minutes.

You keep your UK number active for calls, texts and apps like WhatsApp, while using local data.. no SIM swap needed.

With Sim Local, there’s no waiting, no hidden fees, and no surprise bills when you get home.

Is My Phone Compatible With an eSIM in the UK?

Most modern phones support eSIM, especially if you’ve bought a device in the last few years. If you’re using one of the models below, you’re probably good to go.

Popular eSIM-compatible phones include:

• iPhones from XR and newer
  
  
• Google Pixel 3 and up
  
  
• Samsung Galaxy S20 and newer
  
  
• Many newer iPads, smartwatches and laptops
  
  

Not sure if your device supports eSIM?
Dial *#06# on your phone. If you see an EID number, your phone is eSIM-ready.

You can also check our full compatibility guide for a detailed list of supported models

Will It Save Me Money?

Will a UK eSIM Save Me Money?

Yes, you will save money with an eSIM and not just a little.

Many mobile providers charge £6 to £8 per day to use your own data abroad. That’s over £50 for just one week of basic connectivity.

With Sim Local, you can start with one of the lower-priced plans. For just £10, you get 20GB of data, unlimited UK calls and texts, and 6GB of roaming. You can activate it before you leave or as soon as you land, and it works for up to 30 days.

Looking for something different? Sim Local also offers other UK eSIM plans with more data, longer durations, roaming options, or a local UK number included. Whatever your trip looks like, there’s a plan to suit your needs. 

How to Get a UK eSIM with Sim Local

Getting started takes less time than ordering a coffee. No faff. No waiting. Just follow these three simple steps:

1. Pick your plan
   Choose the data amount that suits your trip. Whether you’re staying a weekend or a month, we’ve got options.
   
   
2. Get your QR code
   Once you check out, we’ll send you everything you need to install your eSIM. It’s all digital, so no delivery delays.
   
   
3. Scan and connect
   Scan the code using your phone’s settings. In seconds, you’re online and ready to go.
   
   

Need help while setting it up? Our support team is always here to walk you through it.

What Makes Sim Local Different?

Sim Local is trusted by millions of travellers around the world. Whether you're landing in London, connecting through Heathrow, or exploring beyond the cities, we've built our service around one simple idea.. make staying connected easy.

You’ll find our stores in UK airports like Heathrow and Gatwick, so if you ever need help, a real person is nearby.

Our plans are designed for UK visitors and built to be simple. No hidden charges. No auto-renew traps. Just fast, reliable mobile data, with options for calls, texts and even a local UK number if you need it.

💬 “Very good connection, and well priced packages. Managed to use the same sim card for my stays in the UK and Spain.” – Ali Z
💬 “I’ve used this twice now… It worked a treat. Highly recommend. Just make sure your phone is modern enough to use eSIM service.” – Simon C

You don’t need to be techy. You just need a phone that’s eSIM-compatible and a few minutes to get set up.

Ready to Try an eSIM?

Here’s what you get with a UK eSIM from Sim Local:

• Instant digital delivery
  
  
• Plans that work across the UK
  
  
• Big savings compared to roaming
  
  
• No queues, no faff, no delays
  
  

Whether you're flying tomorrow or already in the UK, you can be online in minutes.

Find your perfect UK eSIM plan today.

💬This is the first incarnation of our guide. Got any experiences, tips, or questions you think should make it into the next update? We’re all ears. Jump into the What is an eSIM UK? Reddit thread and share your thoughts.

FAQs About eSIMs in the UK

What’s the difference between an eSIM and a physical SIM in the UK?

A physical SIM is a removable plastic card. An eSIM is built into your phone and works digitally. You don’t need to insert anything. Just scan a code and connect. It’s quicker, cleaner, and easier to manage.

Can I use my number with an eSIM?

Yes. Your original number stays active even while using an eSIM for data. That means you can still receive calls and texts on your usual number while using your eSIM to get online.

Do I need Wi-Fi to activate an eSIM?

Yes, you’ll need a basic Wi-Fi connection for setup. Once your QR code is scanned and your plan is active, you’re ready to go. No Wi-Fi needed after that unless you want to switch plans.

What if I delete my eSIM accidentally?

If that happens, just reach out to support. They can resend your QR code so you can reinstall it. It’s a quick fix, but try not to delete it unless you're sure you're done with it.

Can I use an eSIM for WhatsApp, FaceTime or iMessage?

Definitely. WhatsApp stays connected to your original number, and iMessage and FaceTime work just like normal. You won’t lose access to any of your go-to apps.