How to Use iMessage While Travelling with a Simify eSIMUpdated 13 days ago
How to Use iMessage While Travelling with a Simify eSIM
Planning to use iMessage while you travel? Good news — it’s free to use and works anywhere you’ve got WiFi or mobile data. But if your settings aren’t quite right, you could run into issues like messages not sending — or worse, getting hit with unwanted SMS charges.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to use iMessage with your Simify eSIM so you can message freely while abroad — without the stress or surprise fees.
What is iMessage?
iMessage is Apple’s internet-based messaging service that lets you send texts, photos, videos, and voice notes for free using WiFi or mobile data. It works exclusively between Apple devices (iPhones, iPads, Macs), and unlocks a bunch of great features — like group chats, reactions, message editing, and seamless syncing across devices.
Since it doesn’t rely on traditional SMS networks, iMessage is a great way to avoid carrier text charges when you’re travelling.
Does iMessage work internationally?
Yes — iMessage works perfectly overseas as long as you’re connected to the internet. You can use it to chat with any other iMessage user, wherever you are in the world.
Is iMessage free to use overseas?
Yep, iMessage itself is free! As long as you’re connected to WiFi or using mobile data from a travel eSIM (like Simify’s), you won’t be charged for sending messages through the iMessage app.
However, if you’re using a mobile data plan from your home provider, you could get hit with roaming fees — which can be pricey. That’s why a Simify travel eSIM is such a great option. You get reliable mobile data in your destination, without the hidden fees.
💡 Having trouble sending messages? Make sure your APN settings are correctly configured. You can find this under Settings > Mobile > Mobile Data Network.
iMessage vs SMS: What’s the difference?
iMessage: Sends messages using WiFi or mobile data between Apple devices.
SMS: Sends messages over your carrier’s network — and can incur roaming charges when travelling.
If a message bubble is blue, it’s an iMessage. If it’s green, it’s SMS — and may cost you.
How to Set Up iMessage on Your iPhone
Before heading off, double-check that iMessage is set up correctly on your device:
Go to Settings > Messages
Toggle on iMessage
If prompted, sign in with your Apple ID to sync across all your devices
To avoid unexpected charges, disable “Send as SMS” — this prevents your phone from switching to paid SMS if the internet connection drops mid-message
Find this under Settings > Messages > Send as SMS
Why Use an eSIM for iMessage While Travelling?
While iMessage does work over WiFi, relying on free public networks while you travel isn’t always ideal. Airport and café WiFi can be slow, unreliable, or even unsafe.
A Simify eSIM gives you instant access to secure, high-speed mobile data in over 190+ countries — so you can stay connected on the go without paying for a local SIM or international roaming.
How to Set Up Your Simify eSIM for iMessage
Here’s how to get up and running in minutes:
Check your phone supports eSIM
Most iPhones from iPhone XR/XS and newer support eSIM
Your iPhone must be unlocked
Purchase a Simify eSIM plan
Head to simify.com
Choose your destination, select a data plan, and complete your purchase
Install the eSIM
Open Settings > Mobile > Add eSIM
Use your camera to scan the QR code we email you
Or manually enter the activation details (you’ll receive these too)
Select your Simify eSIM as the data line
Go to Settings > Mobile > Mobile Data
Set the Simify eSIM as your primary line for mobile data and iMessage
Enable Data Roaming
Go to Settings > Mobile > Mobile Data Options
Switch on Data Roaming to stay connected abroad
With Simify, you can travel stress-free and message like a local — no matter where you’re headed. ✈️
Need help? Our support team is always here to assist with setup, troubleshooting, or choosing the right plan.