Mobile Internet in the United Kingdom (UK, England) and Scotland with eSIM
Is mobile internet in the UK and Scotland possible with eSIM?
Yes, it is possible thanks to XOXO’s eSIM service. Did you know that eSIM for the UK and Scotland is a convenient solution for everyone who wants immediate internet access upon landing in the British Isles? Instead of a traditional plastic SIM card, you use a digital profile stored directly on your phone, eliminating the need to search for sales points at the airport, gas stations, or stores, and avoiding physical SIM swaps.
This solution allows instant activation without formalities or delays and protects you from unexpectedly high roaming charges that often surprise travelers after returning home.
How to install eSIM on your phone?
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Choose XOXO eSIM and a UK plan online.
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Receive an email with a QR code (or activation instructions in the app).
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On your phone, go to Settings → Cellular Network → Add Cellular Plan / eSIM.
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Scan the QR code (Wi-Fi connection required).
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Follow the simple on-screen steps.
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After arriving in the UK, activate your new eSIM data plan.
The entire process is online and does not require losing your current phone number, offering great convenience for both business and leisure travelers. This is how modern telecom technologies work — simply, quickly, and effectively.
Difference between eSIM and traditional SIM in the UK
The key difference lies in form and activation method. eSIM is fully digital and integrated into the phone, while traditional SIM is a physical plastic card inserted manually.
With eSIM, no need to hunt for stores or swap cards at the airport or malls. Activation is online, typically by scanning a code or using the operator app — usually taking only minutes. It’s perfect for those wanting to keep their main phone number while using local data or calling plans.
Additional benefits of eSIM while traveling in England
You only pay for the data package you select, with no long-term commitments. This flexibility saves time, money, and stress over changing numbers or losing contacts — a modern travel standard, especially valued by those who want fast internet access right after landing.
Fast internet with eSIM – your window to the UK
Internet access is essential for successful travel. With fast eSIM internet, whether exploring London’s alleys, admiring Scottish Highlands, or searching for the best fish and chips in Brighton, you always have a stable connection. Online maps work, streaming music on the train is easy, and sending important work emails is hassle-free — all without scrambling for a physical SIM card.
eSIM roaming – no more astronomical bills
Nobody likes surprises on their phone bill after vacation. Traditional roaming can be expensive. Here, eSIM roaming (using local or regional data plans via eSIM) shines as a symbol of convenience and savings.
Traveling around England with eSIM lets you choose a data plan perfectly suited to your needs and stay length. It’s often much cheaper than your operator’s standard roaming rates, and you can do it remotely before your trip.
Why eSIM is ideal for travelers to Scotland and the UK post-Brexit
Polish operators charge very high fees for calls and internet in the UK, causing frustration. With eSIM technology, you avoid these extra costs by purchasing a data package in advance, usually at a better price than traditional roaming. This offers full spending control — you know exactly what you’ll pay, avoiding unexpected surcharges or high bills after your trip.
This solution is appreciated by anyone who’s ever counted every minute or megabyte abroad. eSIM practically eliminates costly surprises, supporting your budget and peace of mind. Plus, it’s flexible — if you find a better deal or need a different package, changing plans is usually simple without swapping physical cards.
What else to know about eSIM for travelers?
Benefits include:
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Wide compatibility: More and more new smartphones and devices support eSIM. Just check if your model is on the list!
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Convenient internet access: Buy a data package (e.g., 5 GB for 15 days) and have your travel eSIM ready to go without contracts or commitments.
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Easy management: If your phone supports multiple eSIM profiles, switch easily between your home number and travel eSIM. Great for traveling abroad.
Security and cost control
Virtual eSIM cards also offer peace of mind — no physical card to lose or steal, everything stored safely on the device.
Regarding costs: With eSIM internet, you pay upfront for your chosen data package and know exactly how much you spend. No nasty bill surprises. Most eSIM providers have apps to monitor data usage in real time. Pay for what you need — smaller packages if you only check emails, larger if you plan heavy internet use.
Which devices support eSIM?
eSIM technology mainly appears in newer smartphones. Apple introduced it starting with iPhone 11, Samsung supports eSIM on Galaxy S20 and newer, and Google Pixel 3 also supports it. Check our website for a detailed list of eSIM-compatible devices.
Android has even more devices with eSIM support. Tablets and smartwatches are less consistent — some models support eSIM, others don’t. Be cautious when buying second-hand or lesser-known brands. Always check device specs to avoid disappointment.
Method 1: Check with *#06# code
This is the most reliable method querying your device’s OS directly.
If present, your phone supports eSIM. If not, it likely doesn’t.
Method 2: Check system menu
How to choose the best eSIM data package for the UK and Scotland?
Choosing the right eSIM depends on your trip length, budget, and internet needs.
Match package validity with your travel dates. Popular options are 7, 15, or 30 days, to avoid overpaying. Data amount matters too — smaller limits (1 or 3 GB) suffice for browsing and social media, while streaming or video calls require larger packages (10 GB or more).
Compare prices from different operators. Costs usually rise with data limits and validity. Check for extras like hotspot sharing and daily data caps (e.g., 500 MB), which can impact convenience.
Also verify which UK networks your eSIM works with, ensuring good coverage and speed.
Careful analysis ensures smooth internet in England and Scotland without stress or surprise fees.
XOXO eSIM plans and pricing for the UK
Focus on cost per 1 GB and package validity.
Available plans range from 1 GB for 7 days to larger 10 GB packages valid 30 days or more. Prices start around $5 per gigabyte.
Example plans and prices at XOXO:
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1 GB / 7 days — 25 PLN (~$6)
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5 GB / 15 days — 40 PLN (~$9.50)
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10 GB / 15 days — 65 PLN (~$15)
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50 GB / 30 days — 225 PLN (~$52)
Unlimited internet plans are available, but beware providers throttling speeds after certain limits. Also check if the plan includes mobile internet only or also VoIP minutes, as UK operators differ in this regard.
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