Vodafone launches new digital travel platform with mobile data Travel eSIM service to over 200 destinations on 700 networks worldwide

Vodafone today announced the launch of a new digital travel platform centred around a Travel eSIM, providing users of any network with affordable and reliable data connectivity while travelling.

Users of Vodafone’s Travel eSIMs can add mobile data and keep their existing number when travelling – whatever network they are on – giving them worry-free connectivity when using translation services, viewing online maps, and accessing email and messages. Before they travel, users simply download the app or visit the website, pick or build their own plan, and install the eSIM within minutes.

Vodafone aims to reach new customer segments globally with Travel eSIM by combining its wide geographical reach with an enhanced digital experience and fast activation. This supports research commissioned by Vodafone which shows that 84% of 2,000 people surveyed would consider such a service if it is cost-effective, convenient, and allows them to keep their number. Users can also avoid long queues for a local physical SIM or the inconvenient hunt for free WI-FI options upon arrival. Instead, they can quickly activate data connectivity with Travel eSIM in around 90 seconds.

This service lets customers use their eSIM-capable smartphone or device widely at a single destination or in multiple countries. From today, Vodafone is extending the service to 206 destinations worldwide across 700 mobile networks, including 5G connectivity in 98 countries. This will give users one of the broadest high-speed data networks of any comparable service.

Enhanced customer support in various languages is also available with Vodafone’s GenAI virtual assistant, SuperTOBI, which can understand and respond to complex customer enquiries faster and better than traditional chatbots.

Margherita Della Valle, CEO of Vodafone, said: “With our new digital platform, we are offering users of all networks across the world a worry-free, easy-to-use travel experience in more than 200 countries. The Vodafone Travel eSIM service is set to be the ideal international data service for any mobile user.”

The Vodafone Travel eSIM service supports data usage only, which includes and reflects the increasing use of email, video, and internet calling and access when abroad. A variety of data packages are available to choose from, including data top ups and build-your-own-bundle options, along with the ability to create mobile hotspots. Standard voice calls and text messages are not included, and customers can continue to use these services via their existing or roaming mobile price plans as normal.

Vodafone Travel eSIM offers a convenient travel connectivity choice at a time when spending on eSIM services is predicted to grow from €3.1 billion to nearly €7 billion by 2028, alongside a rise in traditional roaming services. Vodafone also aims to complement Travel eSIM with corresponding services, including travel insurance, and make it widely available through strategic partnerships with other organisations. The first of these is Uber One which is offering Travel eSIMs in 44 European countries as part of its new member promotion.

Notes to Editors

eSIM

An eSIM is a SIM capability already integrated into a device, such as a smartphone, tablet, or laptop. It offers quick setup, ease of use, and a completely digital experience, eliminating the need to acquire an additional physical SIM card or prepaid phone when travelling.

Travel eSIM - How it works

There are four simple steps to use Travel eSIM:

1. Select data package on travel.vodafone.com

2. Receive QR code by email

3. Activate eSIM when you arrive abroad

4. Surf, stream and navigate directly

Customers can download or receive an eSIM from Vodafone via email or iOS and Android app stores, and activate it quickly. Data top-ups are available with all data plans. Customers keep their original SIM and number for calls and text messages, and it can be used in parallel to an existing SIM, for example, in dual SIM mode on the iPhone.

Travel eSIM price plans

The eSIM can be activated up to 30 days after purchase and billing is in multiple currencies.

Prices start at €4/£3.50/$4 for Europe packages, €6/£5.50/$6 for North America, €8/£7/$8 for the Middle East and €10/£8.50/$11 for data in Africa.

For more information, please visit travel.vodafone.com

Contact details

Media Relations:
Vodafone.com/media/contact
GroupMedia@vodafone.com

Investor Relations:
investors.vodafone.com
ir@vodafone.co.uk

Registered Office:
Vodafone House, The Connection, Newbury, Berkshire RG14 2FN, England. Registered in England No. 1833679