Orbit eSIM
Find my plan

eSIM help, without jargon

Everything a first-time eSIM traveler needs: what it is, when to install it, and what to do if it won’t connect after you land.

Can’t connect? Start here

  1. The eSIM is missing: go back to your order instructions and install by QR, or with the manual code.
  2. It’s installed but offline: choose the Travel eSIM for mobile data and turn on roaming for that line.
  3. Still no signal: switch airplane mode on and off, restart the phone, then follow the plan’s network guidance.
  4. Data may be used up: check the data left and whether the plan can top up.
  5. Still stuck: contact support with your destination, phone model and the step that failed.
The round central window of the space station’s cupola, looking down on mountains and cloud
The Earth through the station’s cupola window, May 2015.
The white contrail of an airliner crossing the blue North Atlantic, seen from above
An airliner’s contrail above the North Atlantic, from the International Space Station, May 2019.

The basics

  • What is an eSIM?

    A digital SIM built into your phone. No plastic, no swapping, no lost tray tool. You add a plan by scanning a QR code.

  • Before you fly

    Install on reliable Wi-Fi, keep your main SIM, label the new line Travel, and check the plan’s activation timing.

  • On arrival

    Choose the Travel line for mobile data and turn on roaming when the plan’s instructions ask for it.

  • Troubleshooting

    Check the data line, roaming, signal and the data left before you change any network settings.

Check your phone, step by step

Frequently asked

What exactly is an eSIM? An eSIM is a digital SIM built into your phone. Instead of inserting a plastic card, you scan a QR code and a travel data plan is added to your device — your regular number stays exactly where it is.

When should I install it? Install before you fly, while you have reliable Wi-Fi. Activation timing depends on the plan, so check its details before installing. We clearly separate installation at home from connecting when you arrive.

Can I keep WhatsApp and my own number? Yes. Your primary SIM stays active for calls, SMS and app verification. WhatsApp, Telegram and iMessage keep working with your existing number over the eSIM's data.

Can I make calls or receive SMS? Our standard plans are data-only. Calls work through WhatsApp, FaceTime or another internet calling app. Your main SIM can remain in place for calls and SMS, subject to your carrier's charges.

Can I share data via hotspot? Many plans allow hotspot or tethering, but availability depends on the specific plan. We show this clearly before purchase.

What if I change or lose my phone? An eSIM profile is normally tied to the device where it was installed. Contact support so we can check whether that specific plan can be reissued.

Can I add more data without installing another eSIM? Some plans support top-ups on the same eSIM and others require a new profile. We show top-up availability before purchase and in your plan details.

What should I do if I cannot connect after landing? First confirm the travel eSIM is selected for mobile data and data roaming is enabled for that line. Then try airplane mode and follow the plan-specific network guidance. Support can help if it still does not connect.

Ready when you are

Pick your destination and we’ll put the right plan size first.

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