More and more travelers are switching from physical SIM cards to eSIMs. Just pick a plan, activate it, and you’re ready to go. But one common question still makes them hesitant to make that change: Does an eSIM have a phone number?
The short answer is yes—if the plan you choose includes one. Some eSIMs are data-only, which means you get internet access but no phone number for calls or texts. Others come with a real number, just like a regular SIM.
In this guide, we’ll break down the details most travelers often miss, like whether your new plan gives you a phone number or just data. You’ll also get tips on protecting your main number and dodging those sneaky “deals” that disappear faster than your airport espresso.
Photo by Opal Pierce on Unsplash
What Is an eSIM?
Let’s start with the very basics. What is an eSIM? It is a digital version of the SIM card built into your device that stores your mobile network information digitally. It also allows you to activate, switch, or manage phone plans without needing a physical SIM card.
Check out our detailed guide on what an eSIM is and how it works.
Try Yoho Mobile’s Free eSIM –No Strings Attached
Curious how an eSIM works before you travel? Activate a free eSIM in minutes and try it in over 70 countries. No contracts, no credit card required, just instant, reliable connectivity when you need it most.
Do eSIMs Have Their Own Phone Numbers?
Here’s the truth: eSIMs don’t come with their own phone numbers by default.
Like physical SIM cards, they’re just a way for your phone to connect to a mobile network. Your phone number is actually tied to your mobile carrier, not the SIM itself. That means that whether you use a regular SIM or an eSIM, your number is linked to your carrier’s service plan.
When you set up an eSIM, you have these options:
- You can use eSIMs to keep your existing number,
- Add a second number (if supported by the carrier), or
- Use data-only plans, which are common with international travel eSIMs
Your current number stays active unless you cancel the line or transfer it to another provider. Just note that if your phone is carrier-locked, it might only support eSIMs from your original network.
How to Know if an eSIM Plan Includes a Phone Number?
If many eSIM plans are data-only, how can you find out if an eSIM plan comes with a phone number? Check the provider’s product details before purchasing. Look for phrases like “includes voice and SMS” or “comes with a local number.” If the plan only mentions “data-only” or “internet access,” it likely does not provide a phone number. You reach out to the provider’s customer support to confirm as your last resort.
A screenshot from a Yoho Mobile eSIM plan displays a phone icon, indicating that it includes a phone number along with mobile data.
The reason most travel eSIMs offer data-only plans without a phone number is that most travelers prefer using messaging apps like WhatsApp, iMessage, or Telegram instead of making traditional voice calls. As a result, eSIM providers focus on offering data-only plans that are more affordable and versatile.
Ultimately, whether you choose a data-only eSIM or one with a phone number depends on whether you need to make local calls.
Can Installing an eSIM Change or Replace Your Current Phone Number?
For many, eSIMs can be a bit intimidating at first, to the point that they accidentally disable their main line when adding a new one, causing some frustrating disruptions.
But here’s something you should bear in mind since the beginning: installing an eSIM doesn’t change your current phone number. Your number is tied to your mobile carrier account, not to the physical SIM or eSIM. So, unless you purposely switch carriers or turn off your main line, your regular number stays active.
Plus, modern phones now support dual-SIM functionality, which means you can use both a physical SIM and an eSIM at the same time. This lets you keep your main number for calls and texts while enjoying a travel eSIM for data without any hassle!
How to Set Up and Use an eSIM Without Losing Your Primary Phone Number
You can use an eSIM without giving up your main phone number by enabling dual SIM functionality on your device. First, make sure your phone supports both a physical SIM and an eSIM—many modern smartphones do. Once confirmed, add the eSIM by scanning the QR code or entering the setup details provided by your carrier.
After installing the eSIM, set your main number as the default line for calls and texts, and assign the eSIM specifically for mobile data. This lets you continue using your original number while taking advantage of the eSIM’s data.
To avoid unexpected charges and common mistakes:
-
Make sure your primary line is still active after adding the eSIM.
-
Don’t forget to manually enable the eSIM when you arrive at your destination to avoid wasting validity.
-
Confirm that your home carrier doesn’t auto-activate any expensive travel plans.
No Phone Number? Best Free and Paid Apps to Stay Connected on Data-Only eSIMs
Having a phone number is useful, but it’s not necessary when traveling. Many businesses share their WhatsApp numbers, so you can easily message them. You can also use Skype to call hotels or tour companies, even in places like Japan or Portugal. In the U.S., travelers are used to using Google Voice as a way to get texts from their bank and keep their American numbers active.
-
FaceTime: This app is great for Apple users. It’s built into Apple devices, free, and secure for calling other Apple users. However, it only works between Apple devices.
-
WhatsApp: Ideal for messaging and calling across all types of phones, WhatsApp also supports video calls, group chats, and file sharing. The downside is that the person you’re calling must also have WhatsApp.
-
Skype: Skype is good for business or calling landlines and mobiles. You can pay to call people who aren’t on Skype. It does use more data, and some calls may incur charges.
Image by rawpixel.com on Freepik
-
Google Voice: This app is excellent for U.S. travelers, offering free calls within the U.S., low rates for international calls, and integration with your Google account. However, it requires a U.S. number to set up and works best within the U.S.
-
Hushed: Perfect for temporary local numbers for texting and calls, like for ride apps. It’s free for a few days, but after that, you’ll need a paid plan.
Tips to save data to stay connected on the go
-
Use Wi-Fi for video calls or big file transfers.
-
Lower video quality in WhatsApp or Skype to save data.
-
Turn on data alerts in your phone settings.
-
Stop background apps (like social media) from using up your data.
-
Turn off roaming on your main SIM to avoid surprise charges.
-
Have backup apps in case one isn’t working (Zoom is a good Skype alternative).
-
Use Hushed or a local eSIM if you need a local number for things like food delivery.
Conclusion: Do You Really Need a Phone Number While Traveling?
Let’s face it: when you’re traveling, staying connected matters. But do you really need to use your personal phone number abroad?
If you’re mostly using WhatsApp, iMessage, or other internet-based apps to stay in touch with friends and family, there’s no need to stress about finding an expensive eSIM plan that includes a phone number. All you really need is a solid data connection and the right data-only eSIM.
But if you’re someone who needs to receive texts from banks, access two-factor authentication, or stay reachable on your personal or work number, then yes, keeping your number live can be important. The good news? You can run both your regular phone number and an eSIM at the same time. That means you can use your number for calls and texts while using the eSIM just for data.
Here’s the final takeaway:
-
Use Dual SIM mode: Keep your number active for essential texts and calls, and let the eSIM handle data.
-
Turn off roaming: Disable roaming on your primary line to avoid unexpected charges while still receiving messages.
-
Update your contacts: Let people know you’ll be available through data apps while you’re abroad.
-
Set up two-factor backups: Use email or app-based authentication instead of SMS when possible.
So no, you don’t necessarily have to use your phone number when traveling. But if you do need it, there’s a smarter, cheaper way to make it work. With a little planning and a good eSIM, you can stay connected on your terms—without paying a fortune or missing a beat.
Overlooked FAQs about eSIMs and phone numbers
Can I have two active phone numbers with an eSIM and a physical SIM?
Yes, you can use both an eSIM and a physical SIM at the same time on devices like recent iPhones (XS and newer) and certain Android phones (Pixel 3 and newer, Galaxy S20+). They work separately for calls, texts, and data. But, only one SIM can use data at a time (you can change this in settings).
What if I lose my phone with an eSIM?
If you lose your phone:
- Block the eSIM through your carrier’s app, website, or customer service.
- Report the loss to local authorities and use tracking tools like Find My iPhone or Find My Device.
- Ask your carrier for a new eSIM (they’ll give you a new QR code or digital transfer).
- Restore your data from iCloud or Google backups if you have them. Set up screen locks and backups to make recovery easier.
Do I still need a local SIM if I have an international eSIM?
No, you don’t always need a local SIM if you have an international eSIM. An international eSIM works in several countries, so you can use data without changing SIM cards. However, local SIMs can be cheaper and offer better coverage in one specific country. If you’re staying long-term or need a better deal, a local SIM may be better. For short trips or traveling to multiple countries, an international eSIM is more convenient.