I have helped a lot of people set up their first travel eSIM. The same mistakes come up again and again.
1. Waiting Until You Land
Buy it the night before. Install over home WiFi.
2. Not Turning On Data Roaming
The single most common issue.
3. Deleting the QR Code Too Early
Some QR codes can only be scanned once. Keep a screenshot.
4. Buying Too Little Data
Estimate what you need, then add 50%.
5. Not Checking Phone Compatibility
Dial *#06# — if an EID appears, you are good.
6. Forgetting to Set eSIM as Default Data
Your phone might still route through your expensive roaming SIM.
7. Activating Too Early
Some plans start countdown from activation, not first use.
8. Not Downloading Offline Content
Download Netflix and maps on WiFi.
9. Panicking When It Does Not Work Immediately
Some eSIMs take 1-5 minutes to register. Wait, toggle airplane mode, try again.