How to Top Up or Extend Your eSIM Plan

Running Low on Data? Here's How to Stay Connected

You're halfway through your trip and that "data remaining" number is getting uncomfortably small. Maybe you've been video-calling home more than expected, or maybe you underestimated how much Google Maps would use. Either way, you don't need to stress — topping up your Only eSIM plan is straightforward.

How Topping Up Works

A top-up is simply purchasing an additional data plan for the same destination. Depending on the plan type, one of two things will happen:

• Data added to existing profile: For some compatible plans, the new data is added directly to your existing eSIM profile. You don't need to scan a new QR code or change any settings.
• New profile required: For other plans, you'll receive a new eSIM profile to install alongside your current one. This means scanning a new QR code, just like you did the first time.

Either way, you'll get an email after purchase telling you exactly what to do. No guesswork needed.

Step-by-Step: How to Top Up

1. Go to onlyesim.com on any device (you don't need to use the phone with the eSIM)
2. Select the same destination country (or region) you're currently traveling in
3. Choose a data plan that fits your remaining needs — pick based on how many days you have left and how much data you typically use
4. Complete your purchase using your preferred payment method (credit card, Apple Pay, or Google Pay)
5. Check your email for instructions — this will tell you whether the data was added automatically or whether you need to install a new profile
6. If the data was added to your existing profile, you're done. If you received a new QR code, follow the installation steps in the email

Important: Make sure you're logged in to the same account you used for your original purchase. This helps us link your plans and makes the process smoother.

When Should You Top Up?

The best time to top up is before your current plan expires or runs out of data. Here's why:

• If you top up while your current plan is still active, there's no gap in connectivity. The transition is seamless.
• If you wait until your data is completely gone, you'll be without a connection until the new plan kicks in. That's not ideal if you're navigating an unfamiliar city.

Tip: Check your remaining data balance regularly so you're not caught off guard. You can do this from your phone's settings or by logging in to your dashboard at onlyesim.com.

How to Check If You Need More Data

Not sure whether you actually need a top-up? Here are some quick ways to check:

• On iPhone: Go to Settings > Cellular and look at your eSIM's data usage
• On Android: Go to Settings > Network & Internet > SIMs and tap your eSIM to see usage
• On your dashboard: Log in at onlyesim.com and check your active plan's status

If you're within the last day or two of your trip and have very little data left, a small top-up plan is usually the smart move.

Choosing the Right Top-Up Size

Don't overbuy. Think about how many days you have left and what you'll be using data for:

• Light usage (maps, messaging, email): 1–2 GB is usually plenty for a few days
• Moderate usage (social media, some streaming): 3–5 GB for a week
• Heavy usage (video calls, streaming, hotspot): 5 GB+ depending on duration

What If the Top-Up Doesn't Work?

If you've purchased a top-up but your data isn't working:

1. Check your email — make sure you followed any instructions (like scanning a new QR code)
2. Toggle Airplane Mode off and on to refresh your connection
3. Restart your phone if toggling Airplane Mode didn't help
4. Contact support at onlyesim.com/support with your order ID if you're still stuck

We'll sort it out quickly so you can get back to your trip.