When you use a VPN on top of an eSIM while traveling, you may run into moments where it "won't connect" or "suddenly feels slow." Because a VPN runs on top of your eSIM's data connection, it's much easier to fix the problem once you figure out whether it's coming from the VPN app or from the connection itself. This article walks through what to check, organized by situation, as a set of steps you can try in order. Working through them calmly, one at a time, makes it far easier to pin down the cause.
The short version: When a VPN won't connect or feels slow, check things in this order: (1) whether the eSIM itself has working data, (2) the server you're connecting to in the VPN app, and (3) your device and battery-saving settings. It also helps to keep in mind that VPN connectivity and speed depend on the network conditions around you and can't be guaranteed to stay the same at all times. For the basics of using a VPN alongside an eSIM, see "Can You Use a VPN with an eSIM? How to Think About Setup and What Can't Be Guaranteed."
First check: is the eSIM itself getting data?
Before blaming the VPN, confirm that the underlying eSIM data connection is actually working. Turn the VPN off for a moment, then try opening a website in your browser or loading a maps app. If that doesn't work either, the issue is likely on the connection side rather than the VPN, so start there.
- Toggle Airplane Mode off and back on once
- Check that the eSIM line is selected as your primary line / mobile data
- Check your data roaming setting (travel eSIMs may need it switched on)
- In areas with weak signal, move to a different spot and try again
If you're unsure about your eSIM settings or how to activate it, the setup guide walks through the basics. If you have no data even with the VPN turned off, start with the troubleshooting page first.
When the eSIM works but only the VPN won't connect
If the internet works with the VPN off but stops once you turn the VPN on, review the VPN app's settings in order.
Try a different server
Most VPNs let you choose which server (country or region) you connect to. A particular server may be congested or unstable at certain times of day, which can make it hard to connect. Switching to a server in another country or a nearby region often helps.
Review the protocol and auto-connect settings
Some VPN apps let you switch the connection method (protocol). If one method struggles to connect, choosing another can be more stable. In some cases, simply closing and reopening the app, or signing out and back in, is enough to fix it.
Update the app and your OS
An outdated VPN app or phone OS can cause connection problems. If an update is available, apply it and then try again.
When it connects but feels "slow"
Because a VPN routes your data through an extra server, speeds can drop compared to not using one. This is somewhat expected given how a VPN works and isn't necessarily a malfunction. If it feels noticeably slow, checking the following can help.
| What you're noticing | What to check |
|---|---|
| Video or video calls keep stalling | Switch to a server in a nearby region / avoid peak hours |
| Slow at certain times of day | Local network congestion may play a part — try a different place or time |
| Slow all the time | Change the VPN protocol, restart the app, restart the device |
| Worried about your remaining data | Check how much data is left (a VPN still uses data) |
Speed depends on local network conditions, your area, and congestion at different times of day. It fluctuates whether or not you use a VPN, so it helps to know in advance that "the same speed every time" can't be guaranteed.
Things to review on your device
When the app and the connection both seem fine, your device settings may be the cause.
- Battery-saving mode: it may limit data to save battery — try turning it off temporarily
- Low Data Mode: settings that throttle data usage can affect how a VPN behaves
- Restarting the device: a quick power cycle can reset the connection and the VPN, often making things more stable
- Conflicts between apps: check that a security app or another VPN isn't running at the same time
How to think about it when nothing helps
If you've tried everything and nothing improves, step back and isolate the cause. If the eSIM works fine with the VPN off, the connection itself is likely okay and the issue probably lies with the VPN app or the server you're connecting to. If you still have no data even with the VPN off, start by reviewing your eSIM settings and signal strength.
Keep in mind that VPNs differ from one provider and app to another, and some networks you connect through may restrict VPN traffic. It's difficult to guarantee how a VPN behaves from the eSIM side, so when things don't work, checking the help resources of your VPN app's provider often points you toward a solution. For the assumptions and the overall approach to using both together, see our guide to using a VPN with an eSIM.
What you can do with Bloomy eSIM
Bloomy eSIM is data-only by design — there's no phone number, SMS, or voice calling. Since a VPN runs on top of that data connection, the first step is to get a stable data connection in place. You can find a plan that fits your destination and how you'll use it by searching by country, data amount, and number of days.
To compare plans for where you're headed, start from the eSIM comparison page; for setup and activation steps, see the setup guide. If you run into trouble, the FAQ is a good place to look as well. Plans are subject to a fair use policy, and connection quality varies with the local network, your device, and the area you're in.
*Whether a VPN connects and how fast it runs depend on network conditions and the specifications of your VPN provider. The information here reflects general guidance as of June 2026 and may change depending on the situation. Please confirm current plan details and pricing at the time of purchase.
