How to Use an eSIM and a Physical SIM Together for Travel

Tired of swapping SIM cards when you travel? Want to keep your home number active for important texts while using affordable local data to avoid high roaming fees? This article unveils the "golden combination" of an eSIM and a physical SIM. Learn how one phone can handle all your communication needs, ensuring you have simple, seamless connectivity anywhere in the world.

The convenience of dual SIM dual standby

In the digital age, global travelers are increasingly relying on smartphones to stay connected and in touch. With the development of mobile and network technology, dual-SIM dual standby (DSDS) mobile phones have become a basic feature that mobile phones must have. The realization of this feature has brought great convenience to travelers. Whether you want to save roaming fees or keep your domestic number unobstructed, dual-SIM dual standby can achieve it. But the problem that comes with it is that dual-SIM dual standby can only store up to two cards. If consumers have more cards, they can only solve the problem by opening the card slot and changing the card. This problem has attracted attention from operators, especially eiotclub. At present, most operators have launched eSIM to solve the problem of switching cards. So today I will introduce to you the unprecedented convenience brought by eSIM and physical SIM.

eSIM is an embedded SIM, which means that a module has been built into the mobile phone. No physical card is needed. You only need to buy the operator's eSIM and quickly activate the data plan through the QR code. This technology is very suitable for frequent travelers or people who need to switch networks between multiple countries. It supports packages for different plans, packages for different countries, and optionality

Why is the most recommended dual-SIM dual standby mode eSIM + physical SIM combination?

① Keep domestic numbers unblocked

You don’t need to remove your home SIM card when you go abroad, and you can continue to receive SMS verification codes, bank notifications, and important calls. You can also enable Wi-Fi calls or roaming voice through settings. (The most important thing is that you won’t lose it accidentally if you put it in your phone, because the SIM card is too small)

② Save money and be convenient: eSIM gets local data plans

You don’t need to buy expensive local physical cards when you arrive at the local area, nor do you have to worry about high international roaming fees. You only need to buy eSIM at the destination, and you can activate local or global data packages (such as eiotclub eSIM) anytime, anywhere through the eSIM QR code to achieve fast Internet access. This operation is virtual eSIM and does not occupy any card slot at all

Although most mobile phones today support dual-SIM dual standby, not all models support the virtual eSIM function. To solve this pain point, Eiotclub launched an innovative physical eSIM card solution: This is a physical carrier card inserted into the card slot, designed for devices that do not support virtual eSIM. It not only realizes the eSIM function, but also can bind up to 9 eSIM profiles at the same time, allowing your device to easily enjoy the convenience of multi-network switching.

How to buy eSIM? How to use eSIM after getting it?

Many users still don’t know about eSIM and are confused about not being able to get the physical card. Below I will take the eiotclub website as an example to provide a setup guide: Teach you how to configure dual SIM cards step by step

Step 1：Check whether your device has the eSIM function

Eiotlcub provides a device list that you can check by yourself. If it is supported, please check the second step. If it is not supported, please check how to use physical eSIM card directly

Step 2: Get and activate eSIM

You can visit Eiotclub eSIM to select the appropriate eSIM. First, select the destination country, and then select the specific data plan under the country. You can choose different capacities and different days according to your needs. Then buy

After the purchase is successful, activate it. The activation steps are as follows

After placing an order, you will get the eSIM QR code or activation code (IMEI, EID binding method) in the order mailbox.

You can complete the installation by scanning the QR code with your mobile phone

Step 3: Enter the phone settings

iOS users:

• Open "Settings" > "Cellular Network" > "Add Cellular Plan"
• Scan the eSIM QR code and wait for activation
• Name the SIM, for example: "Travel Data"
• Android users (such as Samsung, Pixel):
• "Settings" > "Connections" > "SIM Card Management" > "Add Mobile Network" or "eSIM"
• Also scan the QR code and activate

Step 4: Configure line priority

• Default voice line: set to physical card (domestic number)
• Default data line: set to eSIM (travel data)
• Enable/disable "Allow mobile data switching":

If enabled, the system will automatically switch when the main data line signal is poor. However, fees may be incurred, so it is recommended to decide based on the plan usage.

Managing Dual SIMs: Practical Tips & Things to Watch For

Check which SIM is in use

Your phone will typically show which SIM card is being used for calls or messages, helping you monitor and manage usage effectively.

Manually switch data lines

If your eSIM network signal is weak, you can manually switch to your physical SIM in the settings to maintain a stable connection.

Turn off data roaming on your domestic SIM

Before traveling abroad, it’s recommended to disable data roaming on your domestic SIM. Keep voice and SMS enabled to avoid unexpected charges.

Quick switch-back when returning home

After your trip, simply delete or disable your eSIM and set your physical SIM as the primary data line to resume normal service in your home country.

How Can eiotclub eSIM Enhance Your Dual SIM Experience?

Data-only eSIM for hassle-free use

Stay connected without interrupting your regular calls or texts.

Global coverage, flexible plans

Choose from daily, weekly, or monthly plans across multiple countries and regions.

Fast activation, no card swapping needed

Purchase online and get connected within minutes—no physical card required.

Wide compatibility

Works with popular smartphones including iPhone, Pixel, Samsung, and more. If your iPhone doesn't support eSIM, check our guide What to Do When Your Phone Doesn’t Support eSIM?

👉 Get your eiotclub eSIM now and enjoy a smarter way to travel!

eSIM + Physical SIM — The Ideal Setup for Today’s Traveler

Whether you're on a business trip, visiting family overseas, or backpacking across continents, combining an eSIM with your physical SIM offers unmatched convenience and peace of mind. Keep your important number active while enjoying local high-speed data—no more SIM swapping hassles.

Try eiotclub eSIM today and unlock true global connectivity on your phone!