eSIMs are shaking up the world of mobile connectivity, letting us stay connected wherever we are, but they can leave us with a few questions, too. One of the most common ones is: Do eSIMs come with phone numbers?
While travel eSIMs are most often sold with a data-only plan, some also allow you to get eSIMs with a phone number. Since this varies, it can leave you confused. In this article, we clear things up, so you know exactly what to expect when buying an eSIM from Airalo:
What's an eSIM With a Phone Number?
Which Airalo eSIMs Come with Phone Numbers?
How Do I Check if My eSIM Is Data-Only?
Do You Keep Your Phone Number With an eSIM?
Can I Continue Using My Phone Number Even With a Data-Only Plan?
What's an eSIM With a Phone Number?
It's an eSIM that lets you get a mobile plan with phone calls and, often, text messages. An eSIM is simply a virtual SIM card already integrated into your smartphone. The chip works the same way, while taking up even less space in your phone.
- From your operator: Many traditional operators offer the eSIM option as an alternative to physical SIM cards for those who prefer them. Their monthly plan offers remain the same, regardless of the option chosen.
- From travel eSIM providers: Travel eSIMs let you use a temporary plan alongside your regular plan. Most travel eSIM providers primarily (and sometimes exclusively) offer data plans. That is, plans with a set amount of mobile data to use while traveling. With Airalo (App Store | Google Play Store), you can get eSIMs with a phone number for certain destinations, without needing to look for a local SIM store.
Why you might need an eSIM with a phone number:
- Verification codes: Phone numbers are often required to receive text verification codes for ride-sharing or food-delivery apps.
- Business calls: While internet-based calling apps often work well with friends and family, an official number might be better for official business calls.
- Local Services: Having a local number makes it easier to call local spots, such as restaurants and tour operators, to make reservations.
Ready to buy an eSIM? Use the promo code NABLOG15 on your first Airalo eSIM for 15% off. Terms and Conditions apply.
Which Airalo eSIMs Come with Phone Numbers?
Data/Calls/Texts eSIMs come with a phone number, while Data-only eSIMs don't.
Here are Airalo eSIMs with a phone number, allowing you to both make and receive calls and texts:
- Global eSIM
- Bahamas eSIM
- Brazil eSIM
- UK eSIM
- US eSIM
- Canada eSIM
- Austria eSIM
- Belgium eSIM
- Cayman Islands eSIM
- Colombia eSIM
- Costa Rica eSIM
- Georgia eSIM
- Israel eSIM
- Jamaica eSIM
- Maldives eSIM
- Mexico eSIM
- Netherlands eSIM
- Panama eSIM
- Peru eSIM
- South Africa eSIM
- Sri Lanka eSIM
- Thailand eSIM
You should check what type of eSIM you're purchasing ahead of time.
How Do I Check if My eSIM Is Data-Only?
To check what an eSIM offers before purchase, look for a toggle at the top of the eSIM page that lets you alternate between Data and Data/Calls/Texts.
If you don't see a Data/Calls/Texts option, the eSIM is data-only.
Pro Tip: You can still use internet-based calls and messages with a data-only eSIM, with apps like WhatsApp (more on that later).
Do You Keep Your Phone Number With an eSIM?
Yes, installing an eSIM does not change or remove your existing phone number. An eSIM simply adds a cellular line to your device (like having two SIMs). After installation, you can choose which line you use for calls, texts, and mobile data in your phone settings.
If your Airalo eSIM is data-only, you can keep your primary SIM/eSIM enabled, so you can still receive calls and SMS on your usual number while using the eSIM for data.
If your Airalo eSIM includes calls and texts, it comes with a new Airalo phone number. You can choose to use that line for calls/texts instead, but your original number stays on your device unless you remove it.
Note: If you keep your primary line enabled for calls and texts while abroad, roaming charges may still apply, including possible data fees, depending on your carrier's policies. To avoid unexpected charges, make sure Data Roaming is disabled for your primary line, or disable your primary line altogether. You can turn it back on when you return from your trip. If you are unsure, check with your carrier to confirm whether they charge for calls, texts, or roaming services while abroad.
Related Read: How To Install and Activate an Airalo eSIM: Your Complete Guide
Can I Continue Using My Phone Number Even With a Data-Only Plan?
You can continue to use your phone number while using the data from your eSIM as long as your phone has dual SIM technology. This way, you can keep receiving calls and messages from your home line while connecting with your eSIM data plan.
Related: Can I Use an eSIM and a Regular SIM at the Same Time?
However, remember that using your primary number abroad can result in unexpected roaming charges.
Other Ways to Stay Connected Without a Phone Number
A good alternative to avoid roaming fees while still calling and messaging your friends is to use an internet-based calling app.
Here are some free apps that allow you to make calls over the internet:
- WhatsApp: The most universal solution. Free calls and messages to other WhatsApp users.
- Telegram and Signal: Alternatives to WhatsApp. Offer high-quality calls with encrypted conversations.
- Facebook Messenger and Instagram: Allow high-quality voice and video calls. Convenient if your contacts are active on these networks.
Note: These methods require a stable connection (4G/5G or Wi-Fi) to guarantee call audio quality.
Related: How To Make a Phone Call With a Data-Only eSIM
You now better understand eSIMs with phone numbers, so you are ready to make an informed decision when you next travel. Choose the right plan for you, stay connected, and avoid roaming fees.
Find an eSIM for your next trip on the Airalo website or app (App Store | Google Play Store) and redeem the promo code NABLOG15 to save on your first Airalo eSIM. Terms & Conditions apply.
Directs to Airalo help center for more support information.
