# UK Tourist eSIM With a Phone Number: Calls, Texts and Data

> A UK tourist eSIM with a phone number provides visitors local mobile service for calls, texts, and data without a physical SIM card, supported by major UK networks.

- Source: https://picksyra.com/uk-tourist-esim-with-a-phone-number-calls-texts-and-data
- Author: Anil Kumar Nadapana, Digital Marketing Specialist (10+ years of digital marketing experience; B.Tech., Akula Gopayya College of Engineering & Technology) — https://picksyra.com/author/anil-kumar-nadapana
- Publisher: Picksyra
- Topic: Travel
- Published: 2026-10-17
- Updated: 2026-10-17

A UK tourist eSIM with a phone number lets visitors use a local UK mobile number on a compatible device without needing a physical SIM card. This allows calls, texting, and data usage during a stay in the UK, often with roaming features, offering convenience without swapping physical SIMs.

## What is a UK tourist eSIM with a phone number?

A UK tourist eSIM with a phone number is a digital SIM that stores a UK mobile number on your device, eliminating the need for a physical SIM card. It permits tourists to use local mobile services, such as voice calls, SMS, and data internet access, as if using a standard UK SIM. This solution helps travellers avoid SIM card purchases and swaps upon arrival.

## Can I make calls and send texts using a UK tourist eSIM?

Yes, UK tourist eSIMs provide phone numbers that support voice calls and text messaging. For instance, providers like O2 and EE offer eSIM plans featuring unlimited calls and texts, enabling travelers to communicate locally during their visit.

## Which UK mobile providers offer eSIM plans suitable for tourists?

Several major UK providers offer eSIM plans appropriate for tourists:

- **O2** supports eSIMs with the ability to hold two active mobile numbers on one device, which is helpful for travelers wanting a local UK number alongside their home number ([O2 eSIM information](https://www.o2.co.uk/help/phones-and-devices/sims-and-numbers/esim)).
- **Vodafone** allows users to download eSIM plans directly to their phones, store multiple profiles with separate numbers, and switch between them as needed, ideal for managing travel and local lines ([Vodafone eSIM details](https://www.vodafone.co.uk/sim-only/esim?force_isolation=true)).
- **Three** offers Pay As You Go eSIMs with data packs that include roaming allowances in over 70 destinations, convenient for tourist usage and international travel ([Three eSIM roaming](https://www.three.co.uk/support/roaming-and-calling-abroad/roaming-abroad/roaming-esim)).
- **EE** provides Flex plans compatible with eSIM technology, offering unlimited calls and texts with data options ranging from 5GB to unlimited, suitable for various tourist needs ([EE Flex plans and eSIM](https://ee.co.uk/mobile/plans-and-packs/flex-plans/get-flex)).

## How do I set up a UK tourist eSIM on my device?

1. Verify your device supports eSIM functionality.
2. Purchase or select the eSIM plan from the provider’s official website or app.
3. Scan the QR code or manually enter the activation details in your phone’s eSIM settings.
4. Activate the eSIM profile and set it for calls, texts, and data usage.

Guides for these steps are available from providers such as O2 and Vodafone ([O2 setup guide](https://www.o2.co.uk/help/phones-and-devices/sims-and-numbers/esim), [Vodafone setup guide](https://www.vodafone.co.uk/sim-only/esim?force_isolation=true)).

## Can I use multiple phone numbers on one device with an eSIM?

Yes, several UK providers allow multiple eSIM profiles on one device. O2 permits two active mobile numbers simultaneously, letting users switch between personal and UK numbers for calls, texts, and data. Vodafone supports storing multiple eSIM profiles and switching among them, facilitating seamless management of travel and home numbers.

## Does a UK tourist eSIM include data, calls, texts, and roaming?

Many UK tourist eSIMs bundle data with unlimited texts and calls. For example, Three’s £15 Data Pack provides 100GB of data plus 12GB roaming in 70+ countries. Roaming options and limits vary by provider, so it is important to confirm roaming benefits and charges before purchasing.

## What are the typical costs and data options for UK tourist eSIM plans?

| Provider | Plan Type | Data | Calls & SMS | Roaming | Notes |
| --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- |
| O2 | Dual Number eSIM | Varies | Included or PAYG | Plan-dependent | Two active mobile numbers |
| Vodafone | Multi-Profile eSIM | Varies | Included or PAYG | Multiple roaming destinations | Switch profiles easily |
| Three | Pay As You Go Data Pack | 100GB | PAYG | 12GB roaming across 70+ countries | £15 Data Pack |
| EE | Flex Plans (eSIM) | 5GB to Unlimited | Unlimited calls and texts | Varies by plan | Flexible monthly options |

Prices and included features vary by plan and provider. Always check official provider sites for up-to-date pricing and detail before purchasing.

## Are there any limitations or things to know about using UK tourist eSIMs?

- Emergency services like 999 are accessible regardless of eSIM use.
- Indian or other international travelers should confirm if they can remotely purchase or top up UK eSIM plans before arrival as policies may vary by provider and country.
- Network coverage differs across the UK, but major carriers O2, Vodafone, EE, and Three provide extensive coverage.
- Activation needs a compatible phone and temporary internet connection during setup.

## Comparison of UK Tourist eSIM Providers

| Feature | O2 | Vodafone | Three | EE |
| --- | --- | --- | --- | --- |
| Phone Number Support | Two active numbers via dual SIM | Multiple profiles and numbers | Single number PAYG | Single number on Flex plans |
| Data Options | Varies by plan | Varies by plan | 100GB with £15 Data Pack | 5GB to unlimited |
| Calls & Texts | Included or PAYG | Included or PAYG | PAYG | Unlimited with Flex |
| Roaming | Plan-dependent | Multiple roaming countries | 12GB roaming in 70+ countries | Varies by plan |
| Special Features | Dual active SIMs supported | Easy switching between profiles | Inclusive roaming on PAYG | Flexible monthly plans |

## Frequently asked questions

### Is it possible to switch between different UK eSIM profiles easily while traveling?

Yes, providers like Vodafone and O2 allow storing multiple eSIM profiles on one device and easy switching between them. This supports managing different phone numbers and plans during travel.

### Can I use a UK tourist eSIM if my phone is not unlocked?

Typically, your phone needs to be unlocked and compatible with the provider’s network to use a UK tourist eSIM. Locked phones may not accept foreign eSIM profiles.

### How do roaming allowances work with UK tourist eSIMs?

Roaming allowances vary by provider and plan. Some, like Three, include roaming data in multiple countries, while others may charge extra. Review roaming details on the chosen plan before purchase.

### Can Indian travelers purchase UK tourist eSIMs before arrival?

Some providers allow remote eSIM purchases, but availability and verification rules may differ for Indian residents. It is advisable to check with the provider in advance to confirm remote purchase and activation policies.

### What should I do if I lose internet connectivity during eSIM activation?

An internet connection is required to download and activate the eSIM profile. If connectivity is lost, reconnect to Wi-Fi or mobile data to retry activation. Without internet, activation cannot be completed.

## The bottom line

A UK tourist eSIM with a phone number offers convenient local mobile service for calls, texts, and data without the need for a physical SIM card. UK major carriers like O2, Vodafone, Three, and EE provide a range of eSIM plans with features suited to tourists, including roaming and multi-profile management. Device compatibility and roaming terms should be checked before purchase to ensure a smooth experience.

Travellers from India or other countries should confirm their ability to purchase and activate UK eSIM plans remotely before travel to avoid activation delays on arrival.

For further travel connectivity insight, see our guides on [Best International Trips Under ₹1 Lakh From India](https://picksyra.com/best-international-trips-under-rs1-lakh-from-india-complete-cost-break) and [Japan Travel Guide for Indian Tourists 2026](https://picksyra.com/japan-travel-guide-for-indian-tourists-2026-planning-transport-and-eti).

## Sources

1. [What is an eSIM and how to set it up | O2 UK](https://www.o2.co.uk/help/phones-and-devices/sims-and-numbers/esim) — www.o2.co.uk
2. [What's an eSIM and how does it work? | Vodafone UK](https://www.vodafone.co.uk/sim-only/esim?force_isolation=true) — www.vodafone.co.uk
3. [Pay As You Go Roaming eSIM | Support | Three](https://www.three.co.uk/support/roaming-and-calling-abroad/roaming-abroad/roaming-esim) — www.three.co.uk
4. [Flex Plans | Pre-Paid SIM Cards | EE](https://ee.co.uk/mobile/plans-and-packs/flex-plans/get-flex) — ee.co.uk