How to Switch Between Your eSIM and Regular SIM While Traveling

One of the biggest advantages of using an AlpineSIM eSIM is flexibility.
You can keep your home SIM card active for calls and texts while using AlpineSIM for affordable data abroad—or switch completely to your eSIM to avoid roaming fees.

Here’s the complete guide to managing dual SIM usage and switching between your eSIM and physical SIM without headaches.

1. Understand Dual SIM Functionality

Most modern smartphones allow Dual SIM usage:

• Physical SIM + eSIM

• Or Dual eSIMs on newer iPhones

This means you can:

• Keep your home SIM active for calls and SMS

• Use AlpineSIM eSIM for data while traveling

• Switch between them instantly in settings

Tip: Label your SIMs in settings (e.g., “Home” and “AlpineSIM”) to avoid confusion.

2. Set AlpineSIM for Data and Keep Your Home SIM for Calls

If you want cheap travel data but still receive calls or texts on your home number:

On iPhone:

1. Settings → Cellular

2. Tap Cellular Data → Select AlpineSIM

3. Set Primary SIM (home SIM) for voice & SMS

On Android (Samsung/Pixel):

1. Settings → Connections → SIM Card Manager

2. Set AlpineSIM as the Mobile Data SIM

3. Keep your home SIM active for calls & SMS

3. Temporarily Disable Your Home SIM for Full eSIM Use

To avoid roaming charges completely, disable your home SIM for data:

• iPhone:

  • Settings → Cellular → Tap your home SIM → Turn Off Data Roaming

  • Optionally, disable the SIM if you only want eSIM active

• Android:

  • Settings → SIM Card Manager → Toggle home SIM off for data

4. Switch Back Anytime

Switching between SIMs is instant and doesn’t require rebooting:

• Toggle your primary data SIM in settings

• Calls and texts will follow the SIM you select for voice

• Data can always be switched back to AlpineSIM with one tap

5. Pro Tips for Smooth SIM Switching

• Always check which SIM is using data before browsing to avoid unwanted roaming charges

• Save your eSIM QR code in case you switch phones or delete it by mistake

• Use Wi-Fi calling on your home SIM to receive calls without roaming fees