Revolut eSIM. Is it worth using while traveling?
An eSIM offered by a bank sounds convenient, but it immediately raises a question. Does it actually make sense and does it work the way the app promises? In the case of Revolut eSIM, it is designed to solve one specific travel problem. It provides quick access to mobile internet without the need to look for a local SIM card. In this article, I check whether it really works in practice and when this option is genuinely worth the cost.
Table of contents:
- What is eSIM in Revolut and how it works
- Revolut eSIM installation and activation step by step
- In which countries Revolut eSIM works
- Data packages and prices of Revolut eSIM
- Pros and cons of Revolut eSIM
- What Revolut customer support looks like for eSIM
- When Revolut eSIM is a good choice for travel
- Revolut eSIM – frequently asked questions
What is eSIM in Revolut and how it works
Nowadays, it is hard to imagine traveling without access to the internet. Relying only on a hotel network often does not solve the problem. Internet access is also needed outside the place of accommodation. Using Google Maps, accessing a bank account, or quickly checking Instagram have become part of everyday life. Abroad, however, this is not always obvious and can also be very expensive. This is especially true if you accidentally use roaming in a country where preferential rates do not apply.
Revolut eSIM is a virtual SIM card that can be purchased directly in the banking app. It provides mobile internet access only, without a phone number and without the ability to make calls or send SMS messages. Thanks to this solution, fast access to the internet is possible both abroad and at home, without the need to replace a physical SIM card.
The service operates in cooperation with 1GLOBAL Operations, which is the actual provider of the eSIM infrastructure. In this case, Revolut acts as an intermediary and integrates the service into the banking app. As a result, the user can purchase and manage the data package in one place.
Revolut eSIM installation and activation step by step
Personally, I install the eSIM card before the trip begins. This is usually done on the day of departure or when leaving the country. However, I activate it in the mobile network settings only after crossing the border or after landing. This way, I avoid accidentally using up the data package before I actually start using the internet abroad.
For the installation process to run smoothly, the phone must have an active internet connection. This can be via WiFi or mobile data from a physical SIM card. Without access to the network, installing an eSIM will not be possible.
- Open the Revolut app. If you do not have an account yet, you can create one HERE.
- Go to the RevPoints tab and then select eSIM.
- Click Browse plans.
- Choose a country, a region, or a global plan.
- Next, we select the data package that interests us.
- Click Next.
- Check the order summary and click Pay.
- After the payment is completed, we will be redirected to the plan details, where we select Install eSIM.
- Follow the instructions displayed on the screen. Usually, this requires scanning a QR code or confirming the settings directly in the app.
- After the configuration is completed, we can use mobile internet abroad.
In which countries Revolut eSIM works
The Revolut eSIM currently works in over 100 countries, although the exact number is constantly changing. The card can be purchased for a specific country or in a regional version covering Latin America, Europe, Asia and the Pacific, Africa, and North America. A global plan is also available. Before traveling, it is worth making sure that the selected package supports the chosen country or region.
Data packages and prices of Revolut eSIM
Each eSIM card offered by Revolut is available in several data variants. The basic options include a 1 GB package valid for 7 days. They also include 3 GB, 5 GB, and 10 GB packages valid for 30 days. Larger packages are also available. These include 20 GB for 30 days and 50 GB or 100 GB for 60 days.
It is worth remembering that package prices vary depending on the country or region. The available data sizes remain the same. Before purchasing, it is a good idea to check the current price list for the selected travel destination.
Revolut does not offer packages with unlimited data. Therefore, before purchasing, it is worth carefully considering which package will be sufficient for your needs. Online maps, app updates, or internet sharing can consume the available data very quickly.
With careful internet use and background apps turned off, even a 3 GB package can be enough. In practice, this means around 10 to 14 days of use. At the same time, it is not a solution designed for remote work or intensive video streaming.
Pros and cons of Revolut eSIM
| Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|
| 🟢 Availability in over 100 countries | 🔴 No unlimited data packages |
| 🟢 Integration with the Revolut banking app | 🔴 Requirement to have a Revolut bank account |
| 🟢 One app with multiple service management options | 🔴 Uses only the 1GLOBAL operator infrastructure |
| 🟢 Local, regional, and global data packages | 🔴 The eSIM is activated immediately after purchase |
| 🟢 Simple and fast purchase process | 🔴 No referral system for the eSIM service |
| 🟢 Easy installation without replacing a physical SIM card | |
| 🟢 Ability to track data usage directly in the app |
Do you not have a Revolut account yet? You can create one today and start using eSIM while traveling right away. Register here!
What Revolut customer support looks like for eSIM
Revolut customer support is available 24 hours a day, although the quality and speed of assistance depend on the type of issue. For basic questions and minor app related matters, the chat usually proves sufficient. However, when it comes to eSIM related problems, response times may be longer.
This is because the internet provider is 1GLOBAL Operations, while Revolut acts only as an intermediary. This means that Revolut is not always able to resolve issues related to eSIM performance, internet access, or card activation on its own, which can be particularly problematic while traveling. Unfortunately, so far it is difficult to point to an internet provider that would be fully reliable in every situation. For this reason, it is always worth having a backup plan and an alternative app that allows you to purchase another eSIM.
If access to the app is not possible, there is also the option to contact customer support by email at support@revolut.com. However, it is worth keeping in mind that responses via email usually take longer than contacting support through the in app chat.
When Revolut eSIM is a good choice for travel
For users with an active Revolut account, this is a major convenience. There is no need to install an additional app. Everything is handled in one place, and purchasing a data package is combined with a fast and simple payment process. The card works in over 100 countries, which provides broad access to the internet while traveling.
It can be used repeatedly as long as it is not removed from the device. Thanks to this, it also works well for future trips. It is also a convenient backup solution. This is especially useful when there is no access to WiFi or a local network after arrival.
In addition, Revolut eSIM works best for short trips and city breaks. In such cases, quick internet access without additional formalities is essential. The entire purchase and installation process can be completed before the trip. This eliminates the need to look for a local SIM card on arrival.
In summary, the Revolut eSIM card is a good choice for users with an active account. This is mainly due to convenience and speed of service. The entire process of purchasing and managing the service takes place in one app. This significantly simplifies internet use while traveling.
When it comes to pricing, it is always worth comparing the available options. This makes it easier to determine which solution is the most cost effective. It also helps match the option to a specific destination and trip length. I have personally used Revolut eSIM and was satisfied with how the service worked.
Revolut eSIM – frequently asked questions
Do banking apps, maps, and other applications work with Revolut eSIM?
Yes. Revolut eSIM provides standard internet access, so banking apps, Google Maps, messaging apps, social media, and transport booking applications work normally. However, it is important to remember that eSIM does not support SMS. As a result, any authorizations that require text messages must be handled via a physical SIM card.
Does Revolut eSIM work only as internet, or are calls and SMS also available?
Revolut eSIM works exclusively as mobile internet access. You do not receive a phone number, and there is no option to make calls or send SMS messages.
In which countries does Revolut eSIM work and where can I check the current list?
Revolut eSIM works in over 100 countries. The current list of available countries and regions is displayed directly in the app when selecting a data package. It is worth checking this list before purchasing, as availability may change.
Can I buy a plan before traveling and when does it start working and counting its validity?
Yes. An eSIM plan can be purchased and installed before traveling. The validity period starts after activation and the first connection to the network in a supported country or region.
Does Revolut eSIM activate immediately after purchase and installation?
Yes. The eSIM card activates automatically after installation on the device. This means the data package may start counting from the moment of installation, even if the border has not yet been crossed. For this reason, it is best to install the card shortly before departure or consciously control the activation moment in the mobile network settings.
How many eSIM plans can I have at the same time and can multiple plans be used simultaneously?
Several eSIM plans can be installed on one device. However, only one data plan can be active at a time. Switching between plans is done in the phone settings.
How to check data usage and where to see the remaining allowance in the app
Data usage is visible in the Revolut app in the eSIM section, where the current package status and the remaining data allowance are displayed.
Does Revolut send notifications about data usage
Yes. The app sends notifications when you are approaching your data limit and after the package has been fully used.
What to do if Revolut eSIM is not working, there is no internet, or no network connection
First, it is worth checking whether the eSIM is enabled in the mobile network settings and whether the correct data plan is selected. If the problem persists, you should contact Revolut customer support via the in app chat.
Do you need to set APN on Android and what should be entered for Revolut eSIM
In most cases, the configuration is completed automatically. If the phone requires manual setup, the correct APN details are provided during installation or by customer support.
How to request a refund for an eSIM plan and where to report it
A refund request should be submitted through the chat in the Revolut app. Each case is reviewed individually, and the possibility of a refund depends on the level of data usage.
How to cancel an eSIM plan provided by 1GLOBAL
The eSIM plan can be removed from the phone. However, a purchased data package cannot be canceled after activation. In disputed cases, Revolut customer support should be contacted.
Can I transfer Revolut eSIM to another phone
No. Once installed, the eSIM is assigned to a specific device and cannot be transferred to another phone.
If my article helped you plan your route and gather the necessary information, I would be grateful for your support in making my dreams come true by buying me a coffee!
