"Can an iPhone really hold more than one eSIM?" "Can I add a travel eSIM while keeping my regular number?" — these are common questions when you want to juggle more than one line. The short answer: most iPhones can store several eSIM profiles on a single device, and iPhone 13 and later models are reported to support two active eSIMs at the same time. This guide breaks down how many you can store, using two at once, how to switch, and what to watch out for — written for first-time users. (Information current as of June 2026. Support can vary by model and iOS version, so always check Apple's official pages for the latest details.)
- iPhones can store multiple eSIMs
- How many you can use at once depends on the model
- iPhone 13 and later: two active eSIMs is the usual benchmark
- Keep your existing number while using a travel eSIM for data
- Tips for switching and setup
iPhones can store multiple eSIMs
Most iPhones can store several eSIMs (line profiles) on a single device. Apple notes that you can save eight or more eSIMs, but the number you can store — and the number you can actually use for data at the same time — varies by model and iOS version. It helps to keep one thing in mind to avoid confusion: being able to store several eSIMs is not the same as being able to use several at once.
For example, alongside the line you use day to day, you can add a local eSIM each time you travel. eSIMs you aren't using simply stay saved on the device, ready to activate when you need them. To confirm whether your model is supported, see our eSIM-compatible device guide and Apple's official pages.
How many eSIMs you can use at once depends on the model
Even if you can store several, the number you can use for data simultaneously depends on your model. Here's a rough guide.
| Model range | Storing eSIMs | Lines active at once |
|---|---|---|
| iPhone XS / XR through around iPhone 12 | May store multiple | e.g. 1 eSIM + 1 physical SIM |
| iPhone 13 and later | May store multiple | Reported to support two active eSIMs at once |
* Support varies by model, regional model variant, and iOS version. Some regional models may not support eSIM at all, so check your exact model name on the compatible-device page and Apple's official pages before buying or activating (as of June 2026).
Handy ways to use multiple eSIMs
Using more than one eSIM can make getting your phone ready for a trip far simpler. Here are some popular combinations.
| Line combination | Best for |
|---|---|
| Your home line (number / SMS) + a Bloomy eSIM (travel data) | Keeping your usual phone number and SMS verification while covering local data with an eSIM |
| A Bloomy eSIM + a backup eSIM | Multi-country trips where you want to switch lines to match each destination |
One of the most common needs is wanting to keep your existing number while switching to an affordable local plan just for data. Keep your home line in place and you can still receive SMS verification codes sent to that number, while a travel eSIM handles your data.
Bloomy eSIMs are data-only. They don't include a phone number, so voice calls over a number and SMS aren't available — but app-based calls that run over data, such as WhatsApp, Messenger, and FaceTime, work as usual. If you need number-based calls or SMS verification, it's reassuring to keep a SIM or a line with a phone number on your other slot. For more on numbers and SMS, see our phone number & SMS guide.
How to add and switch between multiple eSIMs
Adding and switching takes just a few steps in your iPhone's Settings. Here's the general flow (exact wording varies by iOS version).
- Install over Wi-Fi: On a stable connection, install the eSIM via QR code or manual entry.
- Label each line: In Settings > Cellular, give each line a clear name like "Home" or "Travel" to keep things easy to manage.
- Choose which line to use: Set which line handles calls, SMS, and cellular data. Switch your data line to the travel eSIM.
- Check roaming settings: While traveling, turn on Data Roaming only for the travel eSIM you're using for data, and leave it off for the others to help avoid unintended charges.
The timing of installation and activation can vary by plan. For step-by-step instructions, see our eSIM setup guide, and if you have trouble connecting, our connection troubleshooting guide.
Things to keep in mind with multiple eSIMs
It's convenient, but there are a few things worth knowing in advance.
- Limit on simultaneous lines: You can store several, but the number you can activate at once depends on the model. If you want three or more active at the same time, check whether your model supports it.
- Data-only scope: Bloomy eSIMs don't support number-based calls or SMS. Plan to cover number-based needs with a line you keep on your other slot or by another method.
- Unintended roaming charges: Leaving Data Roaming on for your home line can result in that line using data abroad. Turn off roaming for lines you aren't using while traveling.
- Supported devices and regional models: eSIM support is generally available from iPhone XS / XR onward, but specifications can differ by regional model.
Find an eSIM for your destination with Bloomy
Use Bloomy as the "data line" in your multi-eSIM setup and you can keep your existing number while choosing just the local data you need. You can match capacity and validity to your destination, so it's an easy place to start even for first-timers.
Available plans, pricing, and terms can differ by country and region. Please check the latest details on the comparison page before purchasing. If you're on a long stay and want generous data, the unlimited plan is also an option (a fair use policy and speed management may apply).
Summary
Most iPhones can store multiple eSIMs, and iPhone 13 and later models are reported to support two active at the same time. That makes it easy to keep your existing number while switching just your data over to an eSIM. Start by checking the compatible devices, and once your destination is set, pick a plan on the comparison page. If you're unsure about setup, our FAQ can help.
This article is current as of June 2026. The number of eSIMs you can store, how many you can use at once, and supported models may change. Please check Apple's official pages and your device's documentation for the latest specifications. Connection quality varies with the local network, your device, and the area.
