When you're abroad and notice "my data is running low…", buying a brand-new eSIM and setting it up all over again is a hassle. That's where top-up comes in — a feature that lets you add more data to the same eSIM you're already using. In this article, we'll walk through what top-up is, how it differs from auto-charge, and the key things to check before you rely on it.
- Top-up lets you add data to the same eSIM later, without buying a new one
- Top-up is currently 5% cheaper than buying the same data new; combined with auto-charge, that's a total of 10% off
- Start small and add more only if you need it — flexible and waste-free
- Always check the conditions in advance, such as the number of top-ups allowed and the validity period
- Because it's data-only, there's no phone number, calls, or SMS — but app-based calls (such as WhatsApp) work over data
- Top-up is a feature that lets you add data later to the very same eSIM you're already using. There's no need to buy a new eSIM or reconfigure your settings.
- Because you can add data once your balance gets low, you don't have to buy a large plan up front — you can use just what you need, when you need it.
- Pairing it with auto-charge — which tops up automatically as your balance runs down — can further ease the worry of running out of data.
The information in this article reflects general details as of June 2026. Whether top-up is available, how many times you can use it, and the applicable conditions may vary by plan and over time, so please review each plan's details before use. Bloomy is a data-only eSIM and does not provide a phone number or SMS. Actual connection quality depends on the local network, your device, and your location.
What is top-up?
Top-up is a feature that lets you add more data to an eSIM you're already using. There's no need to physically swap a SIM or reinstall a new eSIM — you simply add data while keeping the same eSIM and the same settings. Instead of "once you've used up the data you first bought, that's it," you can keep adding more when you run low. That's the convenience of top-up.
When it comes in handy
| Situation | How top-up helps |
|---|---|
| You used more data than expected | Add to the same eSIM instead of buying a new one |
| Your trip got extended | Add just what you need and keep going |
| You'd like to start with a small amount | Begin small and add more if you run short |
| Reconfiguring settings is a pain | Add data while keeping the same settings |
Top-up vs. auto-charge
A closely related term is "auto-charge." The difference is simple: manual vs. automatic.
| Top-up | Auto-charge | |
|---|---|---|
| How data is added | You add it manually, whenever you choose | Added automatically when your balance gets low |
| Who it suits | People who want to manage their own usage | People who don't want to worry about running out |
| What they share | Both add data to the same eSIM (no rebuying, no reconfiguring) | |
For a detailed look at how auto-charge works, see What is eSIM auto-charge?
When traveling, people often assume that "once your balance runs low, your only option is to buy a big plan all over again." Top-up changes that mindset. Start with a smaller amount, and add more only if you fall short — this approach makes it less likely you'll pay for data you never use. The advantage over buying a large plan all at once is that it's easier to match your own pace.
Things to check
- Check in advance whether your plan supports top-up.
- There may be a set number or limit on how much you can add (for example, up to a certain number of top-ups per eSIM).
- Top-up generally needs to be used within the original eSIM's validity period. Once it expires, you may no longer be able to add data.
- A top-up on a data-only eSIM "adds data" — it does not add a phone number or SMS.
Who it suits — and who it doesn't
A good fit for
- People who want the flexibility to use only the data they need
- People who'd rather avoid the hassle of rebuying and reconfiguring
- People who want to start small and see how it goes
Less of a fit for
- People who steadily use a lot of data every month (a larger plan or an unlimited-style plan may suit them better)
- People who can only choose plans that don't support top-up
Bloomy's top-up is currently 5% cheaper than buying new
With Bloomy, adding data to an eSIM you're already using (top-up) is currently available at a price about 5% lower than buying the same amount of data new. And if you have auto-charge (which automatically adds data when your balance runs low) switched on, you get a total of 10% off.
For the worry of "what if I run out?", the pricing is designed so that adding is cheaper than rebuying — so it makes sense to start with a modest amount and add more from your account page when you need it. *Discount rates are subject to change. Please confirm the current rate and price at the time of purchase on your account page.
Top-up with Bloomy
With a Bloomy eSIM, you can add data to the same eSIM (top-up) right from your account page (subject to eligible plans and top-up limits). You can also check your remaining balance and validity period there, so it's easy to add data the moment you run low. We also offer auto-charge, which adds data automatically when your balance gets low. You can manage your data after purchase from your account page. Please note that Bloomy is a data-only eSIM and does not provide a phone number or SMS.
Common mistakes (all avoidable if you check ahead)
- Choosing a plan that doesn't support top-up: confirm availability before you buy.
- Trying to add data after the validity period had already expired: add within the period, or consider auto-charge.
- Overlooking the top-up limit: anything beyond the limit may require a new purchase.
What to do next
- Check whether the plan you intend to use supports top-up
- Check the conditions: how many top-ups you can do, any limits, and the validity period
- If running out of data worries you, consider using auto-charge as well
- Make a habit of checking your balance and expiry date on your account page
Summary
Top-up is a handy feature that lets you add data to the same eSIM later. You don't have to buy a large plan up front — you can use just what you need, flexibly. If you'd prefer it to happen automatically, pairing it with auto-charge can further ease the worry of running out. Just be sure to check the availability and the conditions, such as how many top-ups are allowed, before you rely on it.
This article is intended as general information. Conditions such as top-up availability, the number of top-ups, limits, and validity periods vary by plan and over time. Please review each plan's details before use. Bloomy is a data-only eSIM and does not provide a phone number or SMS. Connection quality may vary depending on the local network, your device, and your location. A fair use policy may apply.
