7 Common Mistakes When Installing an eSIM (and How to Avoid Them)

Installing an eSIM is a simple process, but a few common mistakes can turn the experience into a frustrating one. We’ve rounded up the 7 most frequent problems users report and, most importantly, how to solve them before they ruin your trip.

Mistake 1: Trying to install your eSIM without a Wi-Fi connection

Installing an eSIM requires your phone to download the carrier profile from the internet. If you try to scan the QR code without being connected to Wi-Fi, the process will fail. Always install your eSIM over a stable Wi-Fi connection — ideally at home, on your own network, one or two days before your trip.

Mistake 2: Trying to scan the QR code on the same phone’s screen

eSIM QR codes are single-use and tied to the specific device that scans them. If you receive the QR code by email, don’t open it on the same phone where you want to install the eSIM — you need to scan it with that phone’s camera pointed at a different screen (a computer, a tablet, or a printed copy).

Mistake 3: Not turning off data roaming on your physical SIM at your destination

If you arrive at your destination with the eSIM active but your phone is still using data from your physical SIM on roaming, you can get unexpected charges from your home carrier. Go to Settings → Cellular → and turn off data roaming on your primary SIM. Leave only the eSIM as your data source or, better yet, turn off your primary SIM.

Mistake 4: Deleting the QR code before the installation is complete

Always keep the email with the QR code until you’ve confirmed the eSIM is working properly at your destination. If something fails during installation or you need to reinstall (after a reset, for example), the QR code is your only way to recover the profile without contacting support.

Mistake 5: Not checking your phone’s compatibility before buying

Not every phone has eSIM, and not every eSIM-capable phone is compatible with every provider. Always check compatibility before you buy by consulting the list of compatible devices at gigapanda.com. The check takes 30 seconds and saves you potential frustration.

Mistake 6: Installing your eSIM when the plane is already in the air

In airplane mode, your data connection is off, so you can’t download the eSIM profile. And mid-flight, even if the plane’s Wi-Fi is available, eSIM installation may not work properly over in-flight Wi-Fi. Always install your eSIM before boarding, from home or at the airport.

Mistake 7: Assuming your eSIM works in every country in the world

eSIM plans cover specific destinations. A Europe plan doesn’t automatically include Turkey or Morocco. An Asia plan may not include every Asian country. Always check the list of countries included in your plan before buying, especially if your itinerary includes less common destinations.

Need help with your eSIM? The Gigapanda support team is available 24/7 at gigapanda.com/help.