Choosing a plan
Ran out of data abroad? Top-up vs. buying a new eSIM
3 min read · Updated September 19, 2026
When your data runs out, you can either top up the same eSIM or buy a new one. Whether top-up is supported varies by product and provider. If supported, you add data in the provider's app; if not, you install a new plan. Check whether top-up is available in the product details before buying.
Two options
When you run out of data, you can either (1) top up (add data/days to the same eSIM) or (2) buy and install a new eSIM plan. Which one is possible depends on the product.
Top-up support varies by product
Some providers let you add data to the same eSIM in their app (for supported plans only), while some direct you to buy a new plan instead of a simple top-up. Unlimited plans often don't need a top-up. Since availability varies by product, check the product details (whether top-up / adding data is supported) before buying.
When you buy a new one
A new eSIM installs as a separate profile. You don't need to delete the old one (a phone can store several eSIMs, and how many can be active at once varies by device). After installing, switch your data line to the new eSIM.
Before you run out
- Get in the habit of checking remaining data in the provider's app
- If it looks low, top up or buy before it runs out
- Avoid the trouble of trying to pay while your internet is already cut off
FAQ
When my data runs out, can I top up the same eSIM?
It depends on the product. If the plan supports top-up, you can add data in the provider's app; if not, you have to buy a new eSIM. Check the product details before buying.
If I buy a new one, do I have to delete the old eSIM?
No. A new eSIM installs separately, and you don't need to delete the old one. Just switch the line you use for data to the new eSIM.
Do I need to top up even on an unlimited plan?
Unlimited plans usually don't need a top-up. That said, if there's a high-speed data cap (FUP), only your speed may slow down (see the "The unlimited trap (FUP)" guide).