Does an eSIM Come With a Phone Number?
Most travel eSIMs are data-only and have no phone number. Here's what that means for calls, texts and WhatsApp abroad, and how to keep your own number.
Most travel eSIMs do not come with a phone number. They are data-only plans: you get mobile internet at your destination, but no new number for normal calls and texts. If you searched for an "eSIM with phone number", this guide explains what you do and don't get, and how to stay reachable abroad.
Does a travel eSIM have its own phone number?
Usually not. A travel eSIM is normally a data-only plan, so it connects you to the internet but does not give you a number that people can call or text.
That is true of Simnetic eSIMs: there are no phone numbers included with them. A small number of plans in some countries list voice and SMS features, so always read the plan details before you buy.
Can I make calls with a data-only eSIM?
Yes, through apps that use mobile data, such as WhatsApp, FaceTime or other internet calling apps. These calls use your eSIM's data allowance instead of a phone line.
You cannot make normal phone calls over the mobile network with a data-only eSIM. For those, keep your home SIM active alongside it.
How do I keep my own number while using a travel eSIM?
Keep your home SIM in the phone and let the travel eSIM handle data. Apple says that if your iPhone has a SIM tray, you can "use both a physical SIM and an eSIM while travelling internationally".
On iPhone, you then choose which line uses mobile data under Settings > Mobile Data. Apple notes that your iPhone "can use one cellular data network at a time", so set the travel eSIM as the data line. Our guide to keeping your home number for texts while using a travel eSIM explains the settings.
Simnetic tip: If you need a number as well as data, you can pair a travel eSIM with a Simnetic virtual number. They are separate products, each shown with its own price and features before you buy.
What are my options if I need a second number?
If you need a separate number, for example a US number for a business contact, that is a different product: a virtual phone number. It works alongside your phone's normal SIM and any travel eSIM.
What you need | What to use |
|---|---|
Mobile data abroad | A travel eSIM (data-only) |
Calls and texts on your usual number | Your home SIM, kept active alongside the eSIM |
App calls and messages | Any data connection, including the travel eSIM |
A separate number in another country |
We do not guarantee that WhatsApp, banks, one-time-code services or social apps will accept a virtual number. Read our guide on what a virtual phone number is before you buy one.
Will I be charged for roaming if my home SIM stays on?
Possibly, if your home SIM uses mobile data or receives calls abroad. Set your travel eSIM as the data line and check your home network's roaming prices before you leave.
UK networks must send you a message about roaming charges or limits when you arrive in another country, unless you have opted out, according to Ofcom. You can also ask your provider for a monthly spending limit.
Where can I get a data eSIM for my trip?
Pick your destination and compare plans by data, validity and price before you pay. See eSIM plans for 217 countries.
About the author: Written by the Simnetic team at Domaxit LTD, a London-based provider of prepaid travel eSIM data plans for 217 countries and virtual phone numbers. We check every price and plan detail in our articles against the live Simnetic catalogue before publishing.