How to Buy & Activate a Travel eSIM in the Philippines (2025)

If you’re wondering how to buy and activate a travel eSIM in Philippines, you’re not alone. With airport SIM stalls being overcrowded (and overpriced 😤), many travelers are switching to digital eSIMs for instant, hassle-free connectivity.

Whether you’re island-hopping in Palawan, coworking in Cebu, or eating your way through the streets of Manila, having reliable, fast mobile internet is non-negotiable these days. And thankfully, there’s now a smarter, faster, and way more convenient way to stay connected in the Philippines — eSIMs.

In this complete guide, I’ll walk you through exactly how to buy and activate an eSIM in the Philippines, step-by-step — whether you’re a total tech newbie or a seasoned traveler just trying to save time and money.

We’ll cover:

• What eSIMs are (and why they’re perfect for PH travel)
• How to check if your phone is compatible
• The best eSIM plan options for your trip
• The full installation + activation process (spoiler: it’s easier than ordering halo-halo)
• Plus some pro tips and troubleshooting hacks from the road

And yep — you’ll learn how to do all of this with Gohub’s ultra-affordable eSIMs, which are:

• 50% cheaper than global competitors
• Available in 100+ countries
• Backed by real human support (no bots!)

Let’s get you connected — and let the adventures begin!

I. What Is an eSIM and Why You Should Use One in the Philippines

🔹 So… What Exactly Is an eSIM?

Think of an eSIM (short for embedded SIM) as the modern upgrade to that tiny plastic SIM card you used to fumble with at the airport kiosk.

Instead of physically swapping SIM cards, an eSIM is built right into your phone — and it can download mobile data plans digitally, just like an app. No plastic, no tools, no stores. Just scan a QR code and boom — you’re online.

🧠 Want the full lowdown? Check out our detailed guide: What is an eSIM?

🔹 Why eSIMs Are a Traveler’s Best Friend in the Philippines

The Philippines is full of jaw-dropping destinations — but it’s not exactly known for seamless Wi-Fi in the wild. Whether you’re trying to:

• Get directions to your surf camp in Siargao
• Video call your team back home
• Post that dreamy El Nido sunset
• Order Jollibee to your hostel

…you’ll need fast, reliable mobile internet. Here’s why an eSIM makes that super easy:

✅ Instant Activation — Even Before You Land

Skip the airport SIM lines and activate your data while still on the plane (or during a layover in Singapore).

✅ No Roaming Fees

Unlike traditional carriers, eSIMs from Gohub give you local data at local prices, with no shocking bills later.

✅ No Need to Swap SIMs

Keep your original number (for WhatsApp, iMessage, banking) and run your travel data on the eSIM — thanks, dual SIM mode!

✅ Works on 4G/5G Nationwide

Gohub partners with top local networks (like Globe & Smart), so you’re covered from Manila to Mindoro and everywhere in between.

II. Step 1: Is Your Phone eSIM-Compatible?

Before you buy or scan anything, let’s make sure your phone actually supports eSIM. Not all phones do — and honestly, this step alone will save you a lot of stress at the airport.

🔹 The Quick Compatibility Checklist

If you’re using one of the following models (or newer), you’re most likely good to go:

📱 Apple (iOS) Devices

• iPhone XR, XS, XS Max
• iPhone SE (2nd gen and later)
• iPhone 11, 12, 13, 14, 15 series

🔥 Tip: iPhone 14 and 15 models from the U.S. are eSIM-only — no SIM tray at all!

🤖 Android Devices

• Samsung Galaxy S20 / S21 / S22 / S23 / S24 (and variants)
• Samsung Galaxy Note 20, Note 20 Ultra
• Google Pixel 4, 5, 6, 7, 8 series
• Huawei P40 / P50 (except Lite)
• Oppo Find X3 / X5 / X6 Pro

⚠️ Not all models are eSIM-ready — especially mid-range phones or those from local/regional brands.

✅ Need the full list? Check out our master guide here:
📲 Full List of eSIM-Compatible Phones →

🔍 How to Check if Your Phone Supports eSIM

On most phones, you can check with just a few taps:

✅ For iPhone:

1. Go to Settings → Cellular (or Mobile Data)
2. If you see “Add eSIM” or “Add Cellular Plan”, you’re set!

✅ For Android (Samsung/Pixel):

1. Go to Settings → Connections → SIM Manager or Network & Internet
2. Look for “Add mobile plan” or eSIM settings

🔓 Make Sure Your Phone is Unlocked

Even if your phone supports eSIM, it won’t work unless it’s unlocked — meaning it’s not tied to a carrier like Verizon, AT&T, or Telstra.

💡 Pro Tip: If you bought your phone outright or finished your contract, it’s probably unlocked. Not sure? Just Google “check if [your carrier] phone is unlocked” or ask your provider.

📲 Using an iPhone or Pixel?
Get step-by-step activation help straight from the source:
• Apple’s eSIM setup guide
• Google Pixel eSIM instructions

III. Step 2: Choose the Right eSIM for Your Travel Style

Okay, your phone is eSIM-ready and unlocked — now it’s time to choose the perfect data plan for your adventure in the Philippines 🇵🇭. Whether you’re ziplining in Bohol, remote working in Cebu, or trying to find the best lechon in Manila (👀), your travel style matters when picking an eSIM.

🔹 Why Choose a Gohub eSIM?

At Gohub, we designed our eSIMs specifically with travelers in mind — no overpriced fluff, just reliable, high-speed data that works wherever you wander.

Here’s what makes Gohub the smart choice:

• 50% cheaper than Airalo, Holafly & other global brands
• Instant activation (no waiting around)
• High-speed 4G/5G coverage via trusted local networks (like Globe & Smart)
• Flexible data packs: 7, 15, 30 days — or custom plans that match your itinerary
• 24/7 multilingual support (Yes, real humans. We gotchu.)
• 100% refund guarantee if it doesn’t work — no drama

✨ Whether you’re staying for 5 days or 5 weeks, Gohub helps you stay connected — stress-free and SIM card-free.

🔍 Local vs Regional vs Global Plans: Which One Do You Need?

🌴 Philippines-Only Plans

Best for:

• Tourists on short trips (1–3 weeks)
• Backpackers exploring Luzon, Visayas, Mindanao
• Digital nomads based in PH for 1–2 months

📌 Gohub’s PH eSIM gives you full-speed local data — no throttling, no roaming fees.

✈️ APAC Regional Plans

Best for:

• Travelers visiting multiple countries in Asia (e.g., Philippines → Vietnam → Thailand)
• Business travelers hopping between cities
• Southeast Asia adventure seekers

🌍 Skip buying a new SIM in every country — one eSIM does it all.

🌐 Global eSIM Plans

Best for:

• Round-the-world trips 🌎
• Remote workers constantly on the move
• Frequent flyers who need one SIM to rule them all

🧳 Pick a Plan Based on Your Travel Type

Check out our latest Philippines eSIM plans here — starting from just a few bucks a day.

IV. Step 3: How to Buy Your Gohub eSIM in 2 Minutes Flat

Alright, now that you’ve picked the perfect plan for your trip, it’s time to get connected! One of the biggest perks of using an eSIM from Gohub is how ridiculously easy the purchase process is. No paperwork. No waiting in line. No physical SIM card. Just tap, scan, and go.

Here’s how it works:

🛍️ How to Buy a Gohub eSIM Online

1. Go to Gohub.com
   Navigate to our homepage or go straight to the Philippines eSIM product page to view all available plans.

2. Choose Your Destination & Plan

   • Select “Philippines” or “Asia” or “Global”
   • Choose how many days or how much data you need (don’t worry, you can top up later if needed)

3. Add to Cart & Checkout Securely

   • Enter your email address — this is where your QR code will be sent

   • Pay with credit card, Apple Pay, Google Pay, or other secure options

4. Receive Your eSIM Instantly
   Within minutes, you’ll receive an email with:

   • A unique QR code

   • Setup instructions

   • Your eSIM plan details (activation dates, data limits, etc.)

⚠️ Quick Tips Before You Install

• 📸 Screenshot or save your QR code somewhere safe (Google Drive, iCloud, etc.)

• 🔌 Make sure you’re on Wi-Fi when installing the eSIM

• 🧳 If you’re not in the Philippines yet, you can install the eSIM now and activate it later by toggling on data roaming when you land

💬 Got stuck or didn’t receive your email?
Our 24/7 live chat support is just a click away — we’ve helped thousands of travelers get connected stress-free!

V. Step 4: How to Activate Your eSIM in the Philippines

You’ve bought your Gohub eSIM, the QR code is in your inbox, and you’re ready to go. Let’s get you connected in just a few taps — no SIM swap, no tech wizardry needed. 🔮

Whether you’re using an iPhone or Android, activating your eSIM is quick and easy. Just follow the steps below based on your device.

📱 For iPhone Users (iOS 12.1 or later)

1. Open Settings → Tap Cellular (or Mobile Data)
2. Tap Add eSIM or Add Cellular Plan
3. Scan the QR code from your Gohub email
4. When prompted, tap Add Cellular Plan
5. Set your new eSIM as Data Only or choose it as the default line
6. Toggle Data Roaming ON if you’re outside your home country
7. Wait a few seconds, and voilà — you’re connected! ⚡

💡 Pro Tip: If you’ve pre-installed the eSIM before flying, just toggle data roaming ON once you land in the Philippines.

🤖 For Android Users (Steps vary slightly by device)

✅ Samsung Galaxy (S20 and newer)

1. Open Settings → Tap Connections → Tap SIM Manager
2. Tap Add mobile plan → Tap Scan QR code
3. Scan the QR code from your Gohub email
4. Tap Add when the eSIM plan pops up
5. Activate the eSIM, then enable Mobile Data and Data Roaming

✅ Google Pixel (Pixel 4 and newer)

1. Go to Settings → Network & Internet → Mobile Network
2. Tap + next to Mobile Network → Choose Download a SIM instead?
3. Tap Next → Scan the QR code
4. Follow the prompts to activate

✅ Universal Activation Tips

• 🔄 Restart your phone after installing the eSIM to make sure everything kicks in
• 📶 If there’s no signal, toggle Airplane Mode on/off or re-enable data roaming
• 🛑 Still not working? Double-check that your phone is unlocked and supports eSIM
• 💬 Need help? Reach out to Gohub Support — we’re available 24/7!

VI. Network Coverage: Who Has the Best Signal in the Philippines?

Alright, your eSIM is activated — but how good is the signal really? Don’t worry, Gohub’s got you covered (literally). We partner with the top local carriers in the Philippines to make sure you get fast, reliable data, even when you’re off the beaten path.

🔹 Gohub = Top Local Network Access

When you use a Gohub eSIM in the Philippines, you’re automatically connected to one of the country’s largest and fastest networks:

• Smart Communications – Known for strong signal in remote islands, Mindanao, and beach towns
• Globe Telecom – Excellent coverage in Metro Manila, Cebu, Davao, and major urban hubs
• GOMO – A digital-first carrier powered by Globe’s infrastructure (data-only and very budget-friendly)

🔄 Your eSIM will automatically switch to the strongest available network based on where you are — no settings needed.

🏝️ Where Can You Expect Strong Coverage?

📍 Destination	✅ Signal Quality	Notes
Manila & Metro Areas	⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐	5G/4G everywhere — blazing fast
Cebu City	⭐⭐⭐⭐	Excellent coverage, especially with Globe
Palawan (El Nido)	⭐⭐⭐	Mostly 4G, patchy in rural beaches
Siargao Island	⭐⭐⭐	Great near town, weaker further out
Bohol & Panglao	⭐⭐⭐⭐	Smooth 4G in tourist areas
Banaue/Sagada (Mountains)	⭐⭐	Limited service — offline maps recommended

📥 Pro Tips for Better Connection

• 🔄 Restart your phone after switching islands or airports
• 📍 Use Google Maps offline in remote spots like northern Luzon or tiny beach villages
• 📡 Enable roaming + auto network selection for best signal performance
• 📶 Want to check signal strength? Dial *##4636##* on Android to see mobile info

📢 Need to hotspot for work or Zoom?
Gohub’s eSIMs support tethering (on compatible phones), so you can stay productive even from your beach bungalow

VII. Common Activation Problems (and How to Fix Them)

Even though setting up a Gohub eSIM is super straightforward, tech can be moody sometimes (especially after a long flight 😅). If something doesn’t work right away, don’t panic — here are the most common hiccups travelers run into and how to fix them fast.

❌ Problem 1: “No Service” After Activation

✅ Fix:

• Make sure Mobile Data and Data Roaming are switched ON
• Toggle Airplane Mode ON, wait 10 seconds, then turn it OFF
• Go to Settings → Network Selection and switch to Automatic
• Still no signal? Restart your phone — it really does solve a lot

💡 Some devices take a minute or two to lock onto the local network, especially when switching time zones.

❌ Problem 2: Can’t Scan the QR Code

✅ Fix:

• Open the email on a separate device (tablet, laptop, or friend’s phone) to scan the code
• Brighten your screen and hold the phone steady while scanning
• If scanning still fails, use the manual activation info (SM-DP+ address + activation code) provided in your Gohub email

✨ Bonus: Screenshot the QR code and save it to Google Drive or iCloud before your trip — just in case.

❌ Problem 3: eSIM Installed, But No Internet

✅ Fix:

• Go to Settings → Cellular (iOS) or SIM Manager (Android) and make sure:
  • The eSIM is selected as the default data line
  • Data Roaming is ON
  • You have not exceeded your data limit (check Gohub dashboard or email)
• Try visiting a site like fast.com to see if data is flowing — it may just be slow, not broken

❌ Problem 4: Accidentally Deleted the eSIM

✅ Fix:

• Don’t worry — contact Gohub’s 24/7 support and we’ll resend your eSIM details
• If your phone allows, manually re-enter the eSIM info using the SM-DP+ and activation code

❌ Problem 5: Can’t Find My eSIM After Installation

✅ Fix:

• On iPhone: Go to Settings → Cellular, look for the line labeled “Secondary” or “Gohub”
• On Android: Go to Settings → Network & Internet → SIM Cards, and check if the eSIM is active
• Rename your eSIM line to “Gohub” so it’s easy to manage.

VIII. Bonus Tips for eSIM Users in the Philippines

Now that you’re online and exploring the islands, let’s make sure you’re getting the absolute best out of your eSIM setup. These are the travel-tested tricks, app hacks, and smart settings that’ll save you time, data, and even a few pesos along the way.

🔄 Use Dual SIM Mode Like a Pro

One of the biggest perks of using an eSIM is the ability to keep your home number active while traveling.

💡 How to set it up:

• Use your physical SIM for calls/SMS (bank OTPs, iMessages, WhatsApp)
• Use your Gohub eSIM for mobile data
• Set Gohub as the default for “Cellular Data” in settings

✨ Perfect for travelers who need to stay reachable for work, family, or that one friend who refuses to use anything but SMS.

🔌 Tethering & Hotspot Tips

Yes — Gohub eSIMs support hotspot/tethering, so you can share your data with your laptop or travel buddy.

Pro move: Traveling with a partner? One eSIM = two devices. #SharingIsCaring

📉 Save Data Without Slowing Down

Data drain is real — especially with video-hungry apps like TikTok, YouTube, and IG Reels.

👇 Try this:

• Set video apps to “Wi-Fi only” playback
• Use Lite versions of apps (Facebook Lite, Messenger Lite)
• Disable auto-app updates and background app refresh
• Download maps & playlists before heading out

🧭 Offline Map Magic

For areas with patchy signal (like mountain towns or rural islands), download:

• Google Maps offline areas
• Maps.me or Organic Maps for hiking routes

📍 Great for Siargao’s surf spots or if you get lost in Intramuros with no signal.

⚙️ Quick Access Apps to Download

These apps pair perfectly with your eSIM experience in the Philippines:

• Grab – for rides, food, and errands
• Google Translate – Tagalog basics & live sign scanning
• GOMO PH or GlobeOne – if using local eSIM brands
• Speedtest.net or fast.com – check your signal speeds
• VPN (if needed for work access or added privacy)

🧠 Don’t Forget: Gohub’s 24/7 Support is Always With You

Got a signal issue in Bohol? Need help while island hopping?
We’re always one click away. Look for the chat button on gohub.com — real humans, real fast replies.

IX. Why Travelers Love Using Gohub eSIMs in the Philippines

When you’re traveling, peace of mind is everything — and nothing beats knowing your data just works, wherever you go. Whether it’s for booking transport, navigating unknown streets, or checking in with loved ones, Gohub eSIMs keep you connected without the stress or sticker shock.

But don’t just take our word for it…

💬 Real Traveler Reviews

“I activated my Gohub eSIM while still in Singapore, landed in Manila, and had full 4G instantly. No lines, no drama. Saved my sanity!”
— Sarah T., Australia

“Used Gohub while exploring Palawan. Speeds were great in Puerto Princesa and even decent signal in El Nido. Cheaper than Airalo and way better support.”
— Daniel L., USA

“I work remotely and needed stable internet for Zoom calls. Gohub delivered — hotspot worked perfectly all over Cebu. Worth every cent.”
— Emily R., Digital Nomad

⭐ What Makes Gohub the Best eSIM for PH Travel?

• Instant setup — no physical SIM card, no airport hassles
• Top local network access (Globe + Smart = max coverage)
• Up to 50% cheaper than Airalo or Holafly
• Flexible plans built for real travelers, not corporate roamers
• 24/7 live support with actual humans (not chatbot doom spirals)
• 100% money-back guarantee if it doesn’t work — no stress, no fight

Whether you’re a solo backpacker, a couple on a honeymoon island hop, or a remote worker in need of serious data — Gohub gives you the flexibility, speed, and affordability to stay connected, anywhere in the Philippines.

X. Final Thoughts: Stay Connected, Go Explore

Traveling through the Philippines is all about spontaneity — island hopping, hidden waterfalls, last-minute food crawls, and beach sunsets that weren’t even on your itinerary. But when your internet connection just works, you have the freedom to go with the flow, without the stress.

With a Gohub eSIM, you’re not just getting a data plan — you’re getting:

• Instant connection from the moment you land
• Unbeatable value with plans up to 50% cheaper than the big-name brands
• Local speed and coverage that actually keeps up with your travel
• And the peace of mind of real, human support, available 24/7 wherever you are

Whether you’re in Manila, riding a motorbike in Siargao, or taking a banca to that secret island your hostel friend told you about — Gohub is here to keep you connected to the moment and the map.

📥 Ready to Get Started?

🛫 Skip the SIM swap. Skip the airport hassle.
Buy your Philippines eSIM now →
Instant delivery · Trusted local networks · 100% refund guarantee

XI. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can I use a Gohub eSIM for calls and SMS in the Philippines?
Gohub eSIMs are data-only, but you can use apps like WhatsApp, Messenger, and Viber for calls and texts.

2. Can I top up my Gohub eSIM if I run out of data?
Yes! You can easily top up through our website or via support. We’ll send you a new QR or activate more data on your current plan.

3. Does Gohub eSIM work in remote areas?
Absolutely — we partner with Smart and Globe, which have the widest coverage in the country. Some rural spots may have slower speeds, so download offline maps just in case.

4. Can I use the eSIM on my laptop or tablet?
If your device supports eSIM and is unlocked, yes — just scan the QR code and follow the same steps.