Data ran out abroad? Top up the eSIM you already have
What to do, calmly and in order, when your data stops in the middle of a trip: find a connection, add data to the same eSIM, and make the rest last.
It usually happens at an awkward moment: on the way to dinner, maps open, and the little loading circle never stops. Your data has run out. Nothing is broken, and you do not need a new eSIM. You can add data to the one already on your phone.
First, make sure it really ran out
A few things look like an empty plan but are not:
- Data roaming switched off on the eSIM line. A travel eSIM always needs it on.
- Mobile data pointing at the wrong line, for example back to your home SIM.
- A weak signal for a moment. Switch airplane mode on and off once and give it a minute.
If none of these is the cause, the plan is probably used up. Keep in mind that the usage figure can lag behind real use by a few hours, so a plan can run dry while the number still shows a little left.
Get a connection for five minutes
To add data you need to be online for a moment. The easiest options are the Wi-Fi of your hotel, a café or a station. If none is nearby, you can switch on data roaming on your home line just long enough to top up, then switch it off again. Your home carrier will charge its roaming price for that use, so keep it short.
Top up the same eSIM
- Open your eSIMs page on fizztrip.com and sign in with the email you used to buy.
- Choose the eSIM you are using on this trip. The page shows how much data is left.
- Pick an amount and pay.
The new data is added to the eSIM already installed on your phone. There is no new QR code to scan and nothing to reinstall. Most plans can be topped up this way, and the page shows the options available for yours.
Do not delete the old eSIM to make room. Deleting it removes the plan from your phone, and the top up would have nowhere to go.
Make the rest of the trip last
- On iPhone, turn on Low Data Mode for the eSIM line in its settings. On Galaxy, turn on Data saver.
- Switch off automatic photo backup and app updates over mobile data.
- Download offline maps for the cities still ahead.
- Video calls and streaming use far more than messages and maps. Save them for Wi-Fi.
Questions travelers ask
Do I need a new eSIM when my data runs out?
No. You can top up the eSIM you already have from your eSIMs page, and the data is added to the same eSIM.
Do I need to scan a new QR code after a top up?
No. The data goes to the eSIM already installed on your phone, with nothing to reinstall.
How do I top up if I have no data at all?
Use any Wi-Fi for a few minutes, or briefly turn on roaming on your home line, top up, and turn it off again.
Why does my usage still show data left when nothing loads?
The usage figure can lag behind real use by a few hours. If nothing loads and the settings are right, the plan has likely run out.