Quick answer: buy and install a France (or Europe) eSIM at home on Wi-Fi, then switch it on when you land. Each family member with a compatible phone needs their own eSIM. For a one-week trip with maps, messaging and some social media, about 5–10 GB per person is usually enough.
What is an eSIM?
An eSIM is a digital SIM card you download to your phone with a QR code or an app. You keep your normal SIM for calls and texts at home, and use the eSIM for data abroad. No plastic card, no shop, no queue at the airport.
Check your phone first
- Most recent iPhones, Samsung Galaxy and Google Pixel phones support eSIM.
- Your phone must be unlocked (not locked to your home operator).
- On iPhone: Settings → Mobile/Cellular → "Add eSIM". On Android: Settings → Connections → SIM manager.
How much data do you need?
| Use | Typical need for 1 week |
|---|---|
| Maps, messaging, email | 3–5 GB |
| + social media and photos | 5–10 GB |
| + video calls and streaming | 15 GB or unlimited |
💡 Visiting several European countries? Choose a Europe plan instead of France only.
Install it in 4 steps
- Buy your plan a few days before you travel.
- At home, on Wi-Fi, install the eSIM with the QR code or the app.
- Keep it switched off until you land (so the days don't start early).
- When you land: turn on the eSIM and "data roaming" for that eSIM line.
eSIM or local SIM?
A local SIM from a French operator can be cheaper for long stays, but you need to find a shop and sometimes show ID. For a holiday, an eSIM is simpler: you're connected before you leave the plane.
Prices and times checked on 10 November 2026 from official and operator sources. They change: confirm before you travel.
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