"I'm running low on data" or "I've already used it all up" — 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 your data runs short into two approaches: adding data to the eSIM you're already using (a "top-up") and buying a new plan. We'll help you figure out which one fits your situation. If you're new to eSIMs or feeling a little unsure on your first trip in a while, we've kept things as simple as possible.
Key takeaways
- If your plan is still valid and you just need a little more data, a top-up (adding data) is the easy option. You keep using the same eSIM.
- If your plan is about to expire, you still have a long stay ahead, or you're heading to another country, choosing a new plan often makes more sense.
- If you're worried about suddenly running out, setting up auto-recharge in advance (on eligible plans) can give you peace of mind.
- Whether top-up and auto-recharge are available depends on the plan, so please check before you buy.
Why does data run out in the first place?
Some ways of using your phone burn through data faster than you'd expect. Here are some common situations when traveling abroad:
- Watching videos or letting social media autoplay for long stretches
- Long video calls (with family or for work)
- Keeping a maps app running all day
- Uploading photos or 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 your allowance quickly, even in a short time. Start by checking your remaining data and expiry date on My Account so you know where you stand.
Two options: top-up (add data) or buy a new plan
What is a top-up (adding data)?
A top-up means adding 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 swapping lines or reconfiguring. This is a good fit when your plan is still valid but you just need more data.
What does buying a new plan mean?
Buying a new plan means purchasing a separate plan from scratch. You start fresh with a new validity period and data allowance, which works well when your current plan is about to expire, you still have a long stay ahead, or you're moving on to another country. Note that setup timing and activation steps can vary by plan, so please follow the guidance provided at purchase.
Top-up vs. buying a new plan: what's the difference?
| Item | Top-up (add data) | Buy a new plan |
|---|---|---|
| eSIM used | Keep your current one | A new plan (may need to set it up again) |
| Validity period | Usually stays the same | Starts with a new period |
| Best for | Adding data while your plan is still valid | Expiring soon, long stay, or another country |
| Effort | Minimal (right from My Account) | May need to choose and set up again |
| Availability | Eligible plans only | Depends on plans for your destination |
* Availability and steps vary by plan and destination. Please check the latest details before purchasing.
Which one fits you? Choosing by situation
- Only 1–2 days left and you just need a little more → A top-up is the easy choice.
- A week or more left and you're worried about your allowance → Switching to a new plan with more room can be the safer bet.
- Your plan is about to expire → Adding data may leave you unable to use it all in time, so a new plan is a better fit.
- You're moving on to another country → We'd suggest choosing a new plan that covers your next destination.
Auto-recharge as an option (on eligible plans)
If you want to avoid suddenly finding yourself cut off, auto-recharge can be handy. On eligible plans, you can set things up so it's easier to add data when you're running low. The benefit is fewer interruptions to your connection while you're on the move or in the middle of work.
That said, auto-recharge doesn't mean data keeps getting added without limit — it applies to specific plans under set conditions. You can also choose not to enable it if you don't need it, so pick what suits how you use your phone. For details on settings and conditions, see our FAQ or the guidance provided at purchase.
Before you run out: a rough guide to data usage
How fast your data drops depends a lot on how you use it, but having a rough sense of the numbers makes it easier to choose. The figures below are general estimates only and will vary with video quality and your surroundings.
| Activity | Approximate usage |
|---|---|
| Email and messaging (mostly text) | Very little |
| Checking maps and navigation | A few tens of MB per day |
| Social media (image-heavy) | From a few tens of MB per hour |
| Streaming video (standard quality) | Around 0.5–1 GB per hour |
| Video calls | Around 0.5–1 GB per hour |
If you mainly use maps and social media, a smaller allowance can be enough. If you do a lot of video, video calls, or tethering, it's worth considering a larger allowance — or a plan type without a cap on high-speed data. When you're unsure how much you'll need, we'd suggest giving yourself a little extra room (general estimate as of June 2026).
If you can't add data or can't connect
If you've added data but it isn't working, or you can't get a signal at all, try checking these points one by one:
- 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 left
- Move away from weak-signal spots (underground, deep inside buildings) and try again
If that still doesn't fix it, take a look at our setup guide or our troubleshooting tips for connection issues. Working through the checks calmly, one at a time, usually points you toward the next step.
What you can do with Bloomy
With Bloomy eSIM, you can check the remaining data and expiry date of any 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, it's also worth looking at our unlimited eSIM options.
Good to know (for first-time users)
Bloomy eSIM is generally data-only. A phone number, SMS, and voice calls are typically not included, so if you need those, please look into other options as well. App-based calls such as WhatsApp may work where a data connection is available. Pricing, data allowances, supported countries, and available plans are subject to change (as of June 2026). Please check the latest details on the comparison page or in the guidance provided at purchase. Actual connection quality depends on local networks, your device, and your location, and a fair use policy may apply.
