"I'm running low on data" or "I've already used it all"—this is one of the most stressful moments when you're traveling, studying, or working abroad. In this article, we'll break down what to do when you're running out of data into two approaches: adding data to the eSIM you're already using (a "top-up"), and buying a brand-new plan. We'll help you figure out which one fits your situation. If you're new to eSIM or feeling unsure about your trip, we've kept this guide as simple as possible.
- If you just need more data within your current validity period, a top-up is easy and lets you keep the same eSIM
- If your plan is about to expire, your stay is long, or you're heading to another country, buying a new plan is a better fit
- If you're worried about suddenly running out, setting up auto-recharge in advance on an eligible plan gives you peace of mind
- Availability depends on the plan and destination, so always check before you buy
- Phone calls and SMS aren't supported, but app-based calls like WhatsApp work as long as you have data
The bottom line
- If you just want "a little more" within your validity period, a top-up (adding data) is the easy choice. You can keep using the same eSIM.
- If your plan is "close to expiring," "you still have a long stay ahead," or "you're also visiting another country," choosing a new plan is often the better fit.
- If you're worried about running out unexpectedly, setting up auto-recharge in advance on an eligible plan can give you peace of mind.
- Whether top-ups and auto-recharge are available varies by plan, so please check before you buy.
Why do you run out of data in the first place?
There are certain habits that burn through data faster than you'd expect. Here are some common ones when you're abroad:
- Letting videos or social media auto-play for long stretches
- Making long video calls (with family or for work)
- Keeping a map app running all day
- Uploading photos and videos to the cloud or social media
- App updates or backups running automatically in the background
- Tethering to a laptop or tablet
Video and video calls in particular use a lot of data and can drain it quickly, even in a short time. Start by checking your remaining balance and expiration date on My Account to get a clear picture of where you stand.
Two options: topping up vs. buying a new plan
What is a top-up (adding data)?
A top-up adds data to the eSIM you're already using. On eligible plans, you can add data from My Account and keep using the same eSIM—no need to switch lines or reconfigure anything. It's a good fit when you think, "I still have time left on my plan, I just need more data."
What does buying a new plan mean?
Buying a new plan means purchasing a separate plan from scratch. Since you start fresh with a new validity period and data allowance, it's a good fit when "your plan is close to expiring," "you still have a long stay ahead," or "you're moving on to another country next." Keep in mind that the timing of setup and the activation method can vary by plan, so please follow the instructions provided at purchase.
How are a top-up and a new plan different?
| Item | Top-up (adding data) | Buying a new plan |
|---|---|---|
| eSIM used | Keep your current one | A new plan (setup may be required) |
| Validity period | Generally stays the same as your current one | Starts with a new period |
| Best for | Adding data within your current period | Plan expiring soon, long stay, or another country |
| Effort | Minimal (from My Account) | May require choosing and setting up again |
| Availability | Eligible plans only | Depends on the plans for your destination |
*Availability and steps vary by plan and destination. Please check the latest details before you buy.
Which is right for you? Choosing by situation
- Only 1–2 days left in your trip and you just need a little more → A top-up is the easy choice.
- A week or more left in your stay and you're worried about data → Switching to a new plan with more headroom can be more reassuring.
- Your plan is about to expire → You may not be able to use up added data before it expires, so buying a new plan is a better fit.
- You're moving on to another country → We recommend choosing a new plan that covers your next destination.
Auto-recharge as an option (eligible plans)
If you want to avoid the "I didn't realize it had stopped working" moment, auto-recharge is handy. On eligible plans, you can set things up so it's easier to add data when your balance runs low. The benefit is that your connection is less likely to drop while you're on the move or in the middle of work.
That said, auto-recharge doesn't mean "data keeps getting added endlessly on its own"—it applies to specific plans and conditions. You can also choose not to set it up if you don't need it, so pick what suits the way you use your data. For details on settings and conditions, please check our FAQ or the instructions provided at purchase.
Before you run out: a rough guide to data usage
How quickly you use data varies a lot depending on how you use it, but knowing some rough figures makes it easier to choose. The numbers below are general estimates only and will go up or down depending on quality settings and your environment.
| Activity | Approximate usage |
|---|---|
| Email and messaging (mostly text) | Very little |
| Checking maps and navigation | Roughly a few dozen MB per day |
| Social media (mostly images) | From a few dozen MB per hour |
| Watching video (standard quality) | Roughly 0.5–1 GB per hour |
| Video calls | Roughly 0.5–1 GB per hour |
If you mostly use maps and social media, a smaller allowance is often enough. If you watch a lot of video, make a lot of video calls, or tether frequently, it's worth considering a larger allowance or a plan type with no cap on high-speed data. If you're unsure how much to get, giving yourself a little extra room is a good idea (general estimates as of June 2026).
If you can't add data or can't connect
If you find that "I added data but it won't work" or "I can't pick up a signal at all," try checking the following in order:
- Toggle airplane mode off and on, or restart your device
- Make sure mobile data and "data roaming" are turned on
- Confirm that the correct eSIM (line) is selected
- Check that your plan hasn't expired and that you still have data remaining
- Move away from areas with weak signal (underground, deep inside buildings) and try again
If that still doesn't solve it, take a look at our Setup Guide or What to Do When You Can't Connect. Stay calm and check things one at a time—in most cases, your next step will become clear.
What you can do with Bloomy
With Bloomy eSIM, you can check the remaining balance and expiration date of an eSIM you've purchased on My Account, and on eligible plans you can also add data (top up) and set up auto-recharge. If you're still looking for a plan for your destination, our eSIM Comparison page lets you choose by country, data allowance, and number of days. If you use a lot of video or tethering, you may also want to look into our unlimited eSIM options.
Things to keep in mind (for first-time users)
Bloomy eSIM is for data only. Phone numbers, SMS, and voice calls are generally not included, so if you need these, please look into other options as well. App-based calls such as WhatsApp may work as long as you're in an area where data is available. Please also note that pricing, data allowances, supported countries, and available plans are subject to change, and the actual price should be confirmed at the time of purchase. Connection quality also varies depending on the local network, your device, and your location. Plans are subject to a fair usage policy. For the latest details, please check the comparison page or the instructions provided at purchase (as of June 2026).
