How to Use Eskimo eSIM Data Transfer
Eskimo eSIM isn’t just about flexible roaming and long-lasting plans. It also lets you share your paid data with friends or family instantly and at no extra cost.
To date, Eskimo is the only one with this unique data transfer feature.
Whether you’re traveling together or helping someone across the world, Eskimo’s Data Transfer makes sharing data fast and easy.
Below, we’ll explain how it works, who qualifies, and why it's one of Eskimo’s most useful features for travelers and remote users alike.
Who Can Use Eskimo Data Transfer?
Only Eskimo users can send and receive data via the transfer feature. That means:
- Both sender and recipient must have Eskimo accounts
- Both must have an active Eskimo eSIM installed
- Transfers only apply to paid fixed data plans
- Unlimited data plans cannot send or receive data
Transfer Rules and Validity
- Minimum transfer amount is 500MB
- No upper limit, as long as you have available data
- Transferred data inherits the sender’s expiry date
- You can re-transfer received data to someone else (as long as it meets the 500MB rule)
Example: You buy a 5GB plan valid for 12 months. You send 2GB to a friend. Their 2GB will also expire in 12 months.
How to Transfer Data in the Eskimo App
- Open the Eskimo app
- Go to DATA page and tap on the “Transfer” icon
- Enter the recipient’s phone number (linked to their Eskimo account)
- Choose how much data to send (minimum 500MB)
- Tap Send
Done. The recipient gets the data instantly and can be used right away.
Smart Use Cases for Eskimo Data Transfer
Eskimo’s Data Transfer isn’t just a cool feature. It’s a travel hack. Here’s how real users are making the most of it:
1. Split a Large Plan and Save Money
Instead of each person buying a separate small plan, one user can purchase a larger plan at a better rate per GB, then distribute it to others. For example:
- 30GB Global plan: $90 (just $3/GB)
- Share 6GB each with four friends
- Everyone pays less than buying smaller individual plans
Great for families, backpackers, or business groups traveling together.
2. Top Up Friends Instantly
Your friend runs out of data in the middle of a trip? No problem. Just open the app and send them a quick 1GB. No need for them to buy a new plan or wait for activation.
This is especially helpful when someone:
- Can’t access payment methods abroad
- Needs emergency data for maps or translation
- Has an Eskimo eSIM but no current data plan
3. Keep Data From Going to Waste
If your plan is about to expire and you’re not using all your data, you can send it to someone else who needs it. It’ll keep the same expiry date, but at least it doesn’t go unused.
4. Build a Pooled Data Network
Friends, couples, or coworkers can keep their own eSIMs installed but rely on one person to top up and distribute data as needed. It’s like having a shared cloud-based data wallet, without managing multiple SIM cards or logins.
5. Long-Term Rollover + Redistribution
Eskimo already lets you roll over data for up to 2 years when you buy another plan. With Data Transfer, you can combine this with sharing cycles across users, so data gets continuously extended, reused, and redistributed.
Why Data Sharing is Easier with Eskimo
Eskimo’s design makes data transfer seamless:
- Install eSIM once, no reinstall needed after top-ups or transfers
- No SIM swaps or QR code re-scans
- Transfers happen via mobile number, instantly
- Works globally, which means you can send your data balance to anyone from any corners of the world
- No speed caps, daily limits, or throttling
You also retain full control over your balance and can track transfers in the app.
Other eSIM providers either don’t support transfers, require customer service to step in, or restrict sharing to family or friends entirely. Eskimo gives you full freedom to manage your data how you want.
Try Eskimo with Free Data
New to Eskimo? Get started with 500MB of global data completely free. No credit card needed. Just install the eSIM, and you’re ready to receive data or explore coverage in over 80 countries.
Claim your free 500MB here. Note: this free data plan cannot be transferred. Only paid plans allow transfers.
FAQs
Can I transfer data from an unlimited Eskimo plan?
No. Data transfers are only available for paid, fixed data plans. Unlimited plans cannot be used to transfer data.
What happens to transferred data if it’s not used?
It expires based on the original sender’s plan. If you buy a new plan before that date, you can extend (roll over) your transferred data for another 2 years.
Can I split my data among multiple people?
Yes, as long as you send at least 500MB per person. You can divide your balance as needed.
Is there a limit to how often I can send data?
No limit. As long as you meet the minimum transfer size and have enough data, you can transfer as often as you like.
Can I transfer data across different countries?
Yes. As long as the recipient has an active Eskimo eSIM, location doesn’t matter. Usage still depends on the data plans' coverage.