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How to get and activate a giffgaff eSIM in the UK

Giffgaff offers eSIMs on its monthly, contract and prepaid plans. Learn more about how to install a giffgaff eSIM and an alternative unlimited data travel solution.

giffgaff is one of the UK’s more popular mobile carriers, and the good news is that eSIM technology has officially arrived at giffgaff. If you’re interested in exploring giffgaff eSIM options or switching from a giffgaff SIM to an eSIM, we’ve got you covered.

This guide also includes favoured giffgaff eSIM plans, prices, and an alternative travel eSIM solution that combines the comfort of using high-speed data at home and abroad in over 200 destinations.

In this article

giffgaff eSIM plans for locals

With giffgaff, you can choose an eSIM with a variety of SIM-only plans in three categories: contract, monthly rolling, and pay-as-you-go.

Giffgaff also offers a variety of eSIM-compatible phones available on contract. You’ll need to purchase an eSIM/SIM plan to use your phone in the UK.

18-month Contract giffgaff eSIM plans

Recommended plans include:

Unlimited data, unlimited UK calls and texts, EU roaming up to 5 GB for £25/month
200 GB, unlimited UK calls and texts, EU roaming up to 5 GB for £20/month
100 GB, unlimited UK calls and texts, EU roaming up to 5 GB for £15/month

Monthly rolling giffgaff eSIM plans

Here are some of the more popular monthly rolling plans:

Unlimited data, unlimited UK calls and texts, EU roaming up to 5 GB for £35/month
200 GB, unlimited UK calls and texts, EU roaming up to 5 GB for £25/month
100 GB, unlimited UK calls and texts, EU roaming up to 5 GB for £20/month

Pay as you go giffgaff eSIM plans

Pay-as-you-go users can opt for one of these plans:

200 GB, unlimited UK calls and texts, EU roaming up to 5 GB for £35/month
120 GB, unlimited UK calls and texts, EU roaming up to 5 GB for £25/month
80 GB, unlimited UK calls and texts, EU roaming up to 5 GB for £20/month

How to get and install a giffgaff eSIM

Getting a giffgaff eSIM in the UK is an easy process, as compared to the traditional SIM card registration process. Follow these steps to successfully get one as a new giffgaff member:

Check if your device works with eSIM technology. Dial *#06# and look for an EID number to appear. If an EID is displayed, your phone supports eSIM; if not, it does not. Or, you can check out our eSIM-compatible phones list.
Download the giffgaff app and register for an account. Or log in to your existing account on the app.
Select the eSIM option on the app dashboard, and choose your plan. As an existing user, you’ll also be able to switch to a giffgaff eSIM on the app.

Follow the onscreen instructions to complete your purchase and install your eSIM on your device.

Tip: giffgaff offers a wide range of phones on the official giffgaff website to purchase on a contract basis. Many of the modern smartphones displayed are eSIM-compatible phones, but double-check before purchasing to ensure that is the case.

Install an eSIM as an existing giffgaff user

If you’re already a giffgaff customer, have a traditional physical UK SIM card and an active plan, but would like to switch to a new eSIM, follow these steps to set it up.

Download the giffgaff app.
Head to Account > SIM > Replace my SIM > Switch to new eSIM.

Follow the onscreen installation steps to download your eSIM successfully.

Alternative eSIM options in the UK

eSIM technology is quickly gaining traction due to the convenience and instant setup process. If you’re interested in learning more about other eSIM options for UK locals, here’s a list to explore other options:

Vodafone UK eSIM
EE eSIM
Three eSIM
O2 eSIM
Lyca Mobile eSIM
iD eSIM
Tesco Mobile eSIM
Sky Mobile eSIM

Besides these local eSIM options for the UK, companies like Holafly offer unlimited data travel eSIMs for over 200 destinations worldwide. Holafly’s eSIM for the UK offers unlimited data and 500 MB of daily hotspot data allowance. You can choose a flexible eSIM plan between one and 90 days, perfect for tourists and travellers visiting the UK.

If you’re travelling abroad for a holiday, visit our eSIM store to choose an eSIM for your destination and enjoy high-speed data and peace of mind.

Holafly Plans: Use unlimited data abroad and at home with one eSIM

On the other hand, if you live in the UK or visit frequently as a remote worker or digital nomad, you’ll need a flexible internet solution to keep you connected. Holafly Plans offers flexible data plans for the UK and 170 other destinations worldwide.

Take advantage of a single monthly eSIM subscription that combines home internet and travel connectivity needs without the hassle of looking for local physical SIM cards, roaming add-ons, and unexpected bills.

The unlimited data plan includes unlimited hotspot for any remaining devices and helps you stay connected locally and on holiday for only $64.90 USD (~£47). The best part is that there are no contracts or stress of long-term commitments. You can cancel your Holafly Plans eSIM anytime with no extra charges.

Frequently asked questions about giffgaff

Does giffgaff support eSIM?

Yes, giffgaff supports eSIM technology and offers eSIMs with all of its monthly, contract, and pay-as-you-go plans.

How to convert a physical SIM card to eSIM with giffgaff?

Head to the giffgaff app. Click on Account > SIM > Replace my SIM > Switch to new eSIM.

Which network do giffgaff eSIMs use?

Giffgaff uses the O2 network.

Disclaimer: The data in this article is accurate as of November 3, 2025, and is subject to change.

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Mahnoor Bangush

SEO Content Writer

Born and raised in Queens, New York, I'm a Psychology graduate with a passion for writing that I've been nurturing since 2019. Over the years, I've enjoyed creating meaningful content across various niches, including sports, hospitality, and career development. At Holafly, I focus on crafting useful and inspiring pieces to make your adventures more effortless. One of the best perks of this role? Creating travel content always seems to inspire my next vacation destination!

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