Difference between EES and ETIAS: Simple UK travel guide
A quick guide for UK citizens on EES and ETIAS including what they are, how they differ, and how to get ready for Europe’s new travel rules.
Looking for a way to stay connected on holiday? Using an eSIM can be a handy alternative to relying on your physical SIM card. It enables you to access mobile data abroad without incurring high roaming fees when travelling outside the UK.
An eSIM is a digital version of a SIM card that is embedded in your device. It works in the same way as a physical SIM, allowing you to connect to mobile networks without the need to insert a separate card. There are many providers that offer flexible data plans and international coverage, one of them being Breeze.
In this Breeze eSIM review for 2025, we take a look at the available plans, step-by-step instructions on how to install and activate your eSIM, and discuss the main pros and cons of using a Breeze eSIM too.
And, if you’re looking for a way to make your travel money go further - we’ll show you the Wise card from the money services provider Wise. This clever card automatically converts your pounds to the local currency in 150+ countries at the mid-market exchange rate, with only a tiny, transparent conversion fee*.
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Breeze is an eSIM provider that offers coverage in more than 190 countries. It provides data-only plans with high-speed internet, including options that go up to unlimited data.¹
Most of their plans range from 1 GB to unlimited data and are valid for up to 30 days. Breeze offers country-specific plans, as well as regional eSIMs, such as those that can be used in various European and African countries. A global eSIM is also available, which can be used in more than 100 countries.²
You can buy a Breeze eSIM plan easily through their official website. You just need to create an account, search the country or region you’re travelling to and choose the data plan you want.³
Since Breeze plans are data-only, you can use your UK SIM card for calls and text messages. You can choose the appropriate settings and specify which SIM is used for each function. You just need to make sure your phone supports dual SIM technology.⁴
You can start using your Breeze eSIM plan after arriving at your destination and enabling data roaming. It’s possible to install your bundle in advance, but make sure this is done less than six months before your trip to avoid expiry.⁵
Activating a Breeze eSIM will vary slightly depending on the device. Below are examples on how to complete the process on a Samsung and an iPhone.
If you’re using a Samsung device:
The installation process is slightly different on Apple phones. These are the steps:
In order to use a Breeze eSIM, your device must be eSIM-compatible. A full list of supported models is available on their website, but here are a few examples:
Brand | Phone Models |
---|---|
Apple | iPhone XR, iPhone XS Max, iPhone 12, iPhone SE 3, iPhone 16 Pro⁸ |
Pixel 2, Pixel 3a XL, Pixel 6, Pixel 9 Pro⁹ | |
Samsung | Galaxy S20, Galaxy S24+, Galaxy Note 20 Ultra, Galaxy Z Fold4, Samsung Galaxy Z Flip6¹⁰ |
Huawei | P40, P40 Pro, Mate 40 Pro¹¹ |
Breeze eSIM plans are available in a variety of durations, including daily, weekly and monthly options. Depending on your destination, you can choose from country-specific, regional or global coverage. Data allowances range from 1 GB to unlimited.
Here are a few examples of Breeze eSIM plans available for some of the most popular tourist destinations:
Countries covered | Duration | Coverage | Price |
---|---|---|---|
Canada¹² | 15 days | 2 GB | £5 |
United States¹³ | 30 days | 5 GB | £10 |
Morocco¹⁴ | 7 days | 1 GB | £6 |
Turkey¹⁵ | 7 days | 1 GB | £3 |
Spain¹⁶ | 30 days | 50 GB | £32 |
UAE¹⁷ | 30 days | 10 GB | £15 |
Italy¹⁸ | 5 days | Unlimited | £10 |
Japan¹⁹ | 15 days | 2 GB | £5 |
Europe (37 countries)²⁰ | 30 days | Unlimited | £40 |
Global (107 countries)²¹ | 7 days | Unlimited | £71 |
Wondering whether the Breeze eSIM is the right choice for your travels? Here’s a breakdown of its key pros and cons:
Pros | Cons |
---|---|
Available in 190+ countries and regions | Data-only plans that don't support phone calls or text messages |
Regional and global eSIM options available | Only works on certain devices compatible with eSIM technology |
Secure and reliable internet connection | Internet speed may fluctuate depending on the local networks |
Fixed-data and unlimited data plans | Global plan covers only 107 countries |
Prices start at less than £20 per day |
Staying connected while travelling is easy and convenient with a Breeze eSIM. It allows you to access mobile data across many destinations without the need for a physical SIM card. Breeze provides a variety of eSIM plans, with prices starting at under £0.20 per day. For those who need more data, unlimited plans are also available, along with regional and global plans too.
If you are travelling abroad soon, the Wise card could be your perfect travel companion.
Open a Wise account online and you can order the Wise card for a one-time fee of £7 or get the virtual Wise card for £0. It’s a dedicated contactless travel card, letting you spend like a local in 150+ countries worldwide.
It automatically converts your pounds to the local currency at the mid-market exchange rate whenever you spend, only adding a tiny, transparent conversion fee* – or it’s free if you already have the local currency in your Wise account.
And when you need cash, you can use it to withdraw up to £200 a month (max. 2 withdrawals) fee-free. Wise will not charge you for these withdrawals, but additional charges may occur from independent ATM networks.
Let’s answer some common questions about using Breeze eSIM plans:
You can’t use Breeze eSIMs for phone calls, since they’re data-only. However, you can use messaging and voice apps such as Skype, WhatsApp, iMessage and more.¹
Breeze will send you updates on how much data you have left and warn you when you start getting close to your limit. You can then either top up or buy another eSIM. Just make sure you’re connected to Wi-Fi first.¹
Not at the moment. Breeze eSIMs are available for smartphones, tablets, laptops and other cellular-enabled devices.²²
Yes, Breeze eSIMs are generally considered very secure. They can’t be physically removed, damaged or stolen and include built-in security features that protect against unauthorised access.²³
You can check how much data you have left by logging into your Breeze account and clicking ‘Details’ next to the eSIM of your choice.²⁴
Sources used:
Sources last checked on date: 15-Aug-2025
*Please see terms of use and product availability for your region or visit Wise fees and pricing for the most up to date pricing and fee information.
This publication is provided for general information purposes and does not constitute legal, tax or other professional advice from Wise Payments Limited or its subsidiaries and its affiliates, and it is not intended as a substitute for obtaining advice from a financial advisor or any other professional.
We make no representations, warranties or guarantees, whether expressed or implied, that the content in the publication is accurate, complete or up to date.
A quick guide for UK citizens on EES and ETIAS including what they are, how they differ, and how to get ready for Europe’s new travel rules.
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