NO! You don’t, modern smartphones support dual SIM functionality, allowing you to use your eSIM for mobile data while keeping your physical SIM active for calls, SMS, or receiving verification codes from your home country.
How it works on different phone models?
Most newer phones are compatible with eSIM technology, and many of them no longer require you to insert a physical SIM card. However, some phones accept both eSIMs and physical SIM cards; in this case, you won’t need to remove your physical SIM card to activate the eSIM.
iPhone (XR and newer): Supports dual SIM with a physical SIM + eSIM. You can keep your home SIM inserted and install your eSIM for travel data. Go to Settings > Cellular to manage which SIM is used for data, calls, and SMS. For example, you can use your eSIM for data in Europe while keeping your home SIM active for WhatsApp or iMessage tied to your number.
Samsung Galaxy (S20, S21, S22, S23, Z Flip, Z Fold): These models support dual SIM with a physical SIM + eSIM. You can keep your local SIM in the device and set your eSIM as your preferred data line under Settings > Connections > SIM Manager. Note that some carrier-locked models may disable eSIM or dual SIM functions.
Google Pixel (Pixel 3 and newer): Supports dual SIM functionality with Dual 6ik8SIM Dual Standby (DSDS), allowing simultaneous use of physical SIM and eSIM. Manage which SIM is active for data under Settings > Network & Internet > Mobile Network.
Huawei and Xiaomi: Some newer Huawei P40, Mate 40, and Xiaomi 12/13 models support eSIM, but not all regional variants do. Dual SIM functionality may vary by market, and some Chinese models may disable eSIM entirely.
Why Keep Your Physical SIM Inserted?
- Receive bank verification codes (2FA) from your home country.
- Keep your WhatsApp tied to your home number.
- Receive calls/SMS (note: roaming charges may apply if you answer calls).
- Flexibility to switch back to your home data if needed.
When Should You Remove Your Physical SIM?
- If your phone does not support dual SIM + eSIM and only one line can be active at a time.
- If you want to avoid accidental roaming charges (disable data roaming on your physical SIM if keeping it inserted).
- If your device shows “No SIM” errors or prioritizes the physical SIM for data against your preference.
Practical tips for using eSIM and physical SIM abroad
- Check your device’s eSIM compatibility and ensure your phone is unlocked. Carrier-locked devices may not allow eSIM activation with other carriers.
- Disable data roaming on your physical SIM to avoid unwanted charges.
- Label your lines (“Home” for your physical SIM, “Travel” for your eSIM) for easy management. Use your eSIM for mobile data and your physical SIM for calls/SMS if needed.
- If you use WhatsApp tied to your physical SIM, you can continue using it while using your eSIM for data, as WhatsApp does not require the SIM to be actively connected.
- Test your eSIM before your trip if possible, ensuring it is installed correctly and ready for activation upon arrival.
Troubleshooting: common eSIM + Physical SIM Issues
- No data connection: Ensure your eSIM is selected for data, and confirm you have “Data Roaming” enabled for the eSIM profile while disabled for your physical SIM.
- Calls default to the wrong SIM: Go to your SIM settings and select your physical SIM for calls if needed, or use messaging apps over data.
- Battery Drain: Dual SIM use can slightly increase battery consumption. Carry a power bank if you’ll rely on data-heavy tasks.
- Network switching delays: Some phones briefly lose data when switching between networks. If your eSIM disconnects, toggle airplane mode on/off to reset.
Final Takeaway
You do not need to remove your physical SIM to use an eSIM abroad on most modern devices, and doing so allows you to receive calls, SMS, and critical verification codes while using affordable local or regional data via your eSIM. By understanding your device’s settings, managing your SIM priorities, and planning your data use according to your travel needs, you can travel confidently while staying connected without overspending.
