Can you use an eSIM and a physical SIM at the same time (dual SIM)?
Yes. Most modern phones support dual SIM, so you can keep your physical home SIM active for your usual number, calls, and texts while a travel eSIM carries your mobile data. You set the eSIM as your data line and leave the physical SIM in place, so friends and services still reach you on your normal number without paying roaming on it.
How the split works: home SIM for your number, eSIM for data
In dual SIM mode your phone runs two lines at once. Your physical home SIM stays active to receive calls and texts on your usual number, while the travel eSIM handles internet and apps. You choose which line is used for mobile data, so you can route all data through the eSIM and still keep your number reachable. This only works on a phone that supports dual SIM (a physical SIM plus an eSIM active together); most recent unlocked and eSIM-capable models do.
Set the eSIM as your data line
- Install the travel eSIM before or on arrival by scanning the QR code we send you, so both lines appear on your phone.
- Open your phone's mobile data or cellular settings, where both SIM lines are listed.
- Select the travel eSIM as the line used for mobile data.
- Set your physical home SIM as the line for calls and texts so your usual number stays active.
- Turn on data roaming for the eSIM line only (this is normal for a travel eSIM and does not add cost, since the plan is prepaid).
Avoid surprise charges on your home number
The reason to run dual SIM is to keep your number without paying your home carrier's roaming rates. To be safe, turn off data roaming for your physical home SIM so it never uses expensive data abroad, and keep data roaming on only for the eSIM. Your home line can still receive calls and texts; just be aware that incoming calls or texts may carry your carrier's normal roaming fees, so many travelers rely on internet-based calling and messaging over the eSIM data instead.