Traveling with multiple devices—phone, tablet, laptop—has become the norm. So when you're planning a trip, one question naturally comes up: "Can I use the same eSIM on all my devices?" You want seamless connectivity everywhere, without the hassle of swapping SIM cards or paying expensive roaming fees.

Here's the straightforward answer in plain language. In this guide, we'll cover what's possible with eSIM technology, what the limitations are, and practical ways travelers stay connected across multiple devices. (For context: an eSIM is a digital SIM card installed via QR code—no physical card required.) 

We'll also walk through common mistakes travelers make, like scanning the QR code on the wrong device or accidentally deleting an eSIM mid-trip. If you want to avoid connectivity headaches and surprise costs, this guide has you covered.

Short Answer: Can You Use One eSIM on Multiple Devices?

No. One eSIM can only be used on one device.

Once you install and activate an eSIM, it becomes digitally locked to that specific device. This isn't a policy decision by any single provider—it's how eSIM technology works industry-wide, across all carriers and countries.

What this means in practice:

• You can't use the same eSIM on your phone and tablet simultaneously
• You can't scan the same QR code on two different devices
• Once an eSIM is active on one device, it stays locked to that device

Think of an eSIM like a digital fingerprint tied to your device's unique hardware ID. Just as your fingerprint can't be duplicated and used by someone else, an eSIM profile is cryptographically bound to one specific device. This security measure protects against fraud and unauthorized access—but it also means you need a separate eSIM for each device you want to connect.

Why eSIMs Are Locked to a Single Device

Security & Identity Protection

Each eSIM profile is tied to your device's unique hardware identifier (called an EID). This binding prevents fraud, unauthorized cloning, and protects your data. If one eSIM could run on multiple devices simultaneously, it would create security vulnerabilities and billing conflicts for carriers.

Here's a better analogy: it's like a biometric lock that only responds to your fingerprint. Once paired, it can't be transferred to someone else's hand.

QR Code & Activation Limits

The QR code you receive functions as a one-time activation key. Once you scan and install the eSIM, here's what happens:

The QR code becomes invalidated — most providers disable it to prevent unauthorized duplication
Scanning it again on another device won't work — the activation has already been consumed
Deleting the eSIM doesn't reset the QR code — you can't "free it up" to use elsewhere

Some providers (including theBitJoy) may allow reinstallation on the same device if you accidentally delete your eSIM. However, you'll typically need to contact customer support—the original QR code alone won't automatically work again.

Why This Matters for Travelers

Understanding these limitations means planning ahead becomes crucial:

1. Choose your primary device before purchasing — Will you rely on your phone, or do you need data on your tablet for work?
2. Install the eSIM on that device only — Double-check before scanning the QR code
3. Avoid mid-trip device switching — Once installed, you're committed to that device for the duration of your plan

Important clarification: This isn't a theBitJoy limitation or a policy decision. It's a fundamental aspect of eSIM technology across the entire industry—Airalo, Nomad, Holafly, and every other provider face the same technical constraints.

What Happens If You Delete an eSIM?

Deleting an eSIM is often misunderstood. Here’s what actually happens.

 DO know this:

• Deleting an eSIM removes it permanently from that device

• In some cases, reinstallation is possible only on the same device

• Reinstallation depends on the provider’s policy

 DON’T assume:

• You can move it to another phone

• The QR code will work again automatically

• Deleting it fixes connectivity issues

 Critical warnings for travelers:

• Deleting an eSIM while abroad can leave you completely offline

• Many travelers delete it thinking they can reinstall later—then can’t

• Always troubleshoot first before deleting

Once deleted, an eSIM is usually gone for good, especially for short‑term travel plans.

Common Travel Scenarios (Phone, Laptop, Tablet)

Phone + Laptop

When traveling with a laptop, the most common setup is using your phone’s hotspot (tethering). The phone holds the eSIM, then shares data via Wi‑Fi.

What to expect:

• Works well for email, browsing, video calls

• Drains phone battery faster

• Best with a power bank

This is how we stay connected when working remotely on the road.

Phone + Tablet

This setup is even smoother. Tablets usually need less data, and hotspot connections are stable for maps, messaging, and light streaming.

Tip: test hotspot performance before your trip.

Two Phones

Switching an eSIM between two phones mid‑trip is risky. Once installed on Phone A, you can’t reliably move it to Phone B.

Better approach:

• Choose one main phone

• Keep the second phone offline or on Wi‑Fi only

How Travelers Share Data Across Multiple Devices (Safe Alternatives)

 

Practical Options

1. Mobile hotspot from your phone

2. Separate eSIMs for each device

3. One main phone + backup physical SIM

4. Hotspot‑friendly data plans

5. Portable Wi‑Fi (Pocket Wi‑Fi)

Comparison Table

Method	Devices Supported	Ease of Use	Cost Level	Best For
Phone Hotspot	Multiple	Easy	Low	Most travelers
Separate eSIMs	One per device	Medium	Medium	Power users
Backup SIM	Limited	Easy	Low	Emergencies
Hotspot‑Friendly Plans	Multiple	Easy	Medium	Work trips
Pocket Wi‑Fi	Many	Medium	High	Groups

For most solo travelers, hotspot from one phone is the simplest and safest answer.

Mistakes to Avoid When Using eSIM on a Trip

• Scanning the QR code on the wrong device

• Deleting the eSIM before the trip ends

• Assuming eSIMs can be transferred

• No Wi‑Fi during activation

• Not testing hotspot in advance

These are the exact mistakes we see travelers post about after landing.

Choosing an eSIM for Multi‑Device Travel

If you travel with multiple devices, look for eSIMs that:

• Clearly support hotspot/tethering

• Explain their reinstallation policy

• Deliver QR codes instantly by email

Some platforms, including BitJoy, make it easier to manage plans and understand these limits upfront—but the one eSIM, one device rule still applies everywhere.

Conclusion

So, can I use eSIM on multiple devices?
The rule is simple: one eSIM works on one device only.

That doesn’t mean you’re stuck. With proper planning—using hotspot sharing or separate eSIMs—you can keep your phone, tablet, and laptop connected without hassle. The key is deciding which device gets the eSIM before you scan the QR code.

Plan first, install once, and avoid deleting the eSIM mid‑trip. Do that, and eSIM becomes one of the easiest parts of modern travel connectivity.

FAQs

Can I use the same eSIM on multiple devices?

No, an eSIM can only be used on one device at a time. Once activated, it becomes linked to that device, preventing installation on another device simultaneously.

What happens if I delete an eSIM from my device?

Deleting an eSIM removes it from your device, and you usually can’t reinstall it. Some providers may allow reinstalling on the same device, but generally, you’ll need a new eSIM for another device.

How can I stay connected on multiple devices during travel?

Consider using mobile hotspots to share data from one device. Alternatively, purchase separate eSIMs for each device to ensure each has its own connection.

Can I transfer an eSIM from one phone to another?

You can transfer by deleting it from the original device if the provider allows reinstalling on a new device. However, check the provider’s policy, as not all support this feature.

Does using a mobile hotspot affect my battery?

Yes, using a hotspot drains your phone’s battery faster. It’s advisable to carry a portable charger if you plan to use hotspot features extensively.

Read more:

• Best eSIM for Digital Nomads Remote Work: Reliable Connectivity
  
• Mint Mobile eSIM Not Working? Fix It Fast with This Guide!
  
• Does FaceTime Use Data: Avoid High Bills While Traveling