One of the most common questions travelers have is: “If I use a data-only eSIM, will I lose my ability to make and receive phone calls and texts?” It’s a valid concern. You want the affordable, high-speed data of a travel eSIM, but you also need to stay reachable on your primary phone number.
The short answer is: Yes, you absolutely can make and receive calls and texts while using a Yoho Mobile data-only eSIM. You just need to use the powerful features already built into your smartphone.
This guide will walk you through two simple, effective methods to use your phone just like at home, without the shocking roaming bills. Ready to stay connected? Explore our affordable data plans and see how easy it is.
Understanding Your Yoho Mobile Data-Only eSIM
First, let’s clarify what a “data-only” eSIM is. As the name suggests, it provides you with internet access—cellular data—so you can browse websites, use Google Maps, stream videos, and use online apps. What it doesn’t come with is a traditional phone number for making cellular calls or sending SMS messages directly.
This is actually a huge advantage. By focusing purely on data, Yoho Mobile can offer flexible, high-speed internet at a fraction of the cost of traditional international roaming plans. You pay only for the data you need, whether you’re traveling through Thailand for a week or backpacking across Europe for a month.
The Power of Dual SIM: Using Your Primary Number Abroad
Most modern smartphones are Dual SIM capable, meaning they can have two active lines at once: your physical SIM (or primary eSIM) and your Yoho Mobile travel eSIM. This is the key to staying connected seamlessly.
Here’s how to set it up:
- Primary Line for Voice: Keep your home SIM card active for calls and texts.
- Yoho Mobile eSIM for Data: Set your Yoho Mobile eSIM as the designated line for all cellular data.
By doing this, you’ve created a powerful combination. Your phone will now automatically use the affordable Yoho Mobile data connection to power a feature on your primary line called Wi-Fi Calling.
Even though it’s called “Wi-Fi Calling,” it can use any internet source, including the cellular data from your other SIM. This allows you to make and receive calls and texts on your regular phone number as if you were connected to Wi-Fi, with the charges being the same as if you were at home (which for many is free!). You can finally stop worrying about exorbitant international roaming charges.
Making and Receiving Calls with VoIP Apps
Another fantastic way how to make calls abroad with a data-only eSIM is by using Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) applications. These are apps that use your internet connection to make voice and video calls, completely bypassing traditional cellular networks. You’re probably already using them every day!
Popular VoIP apps include:
- WhatsApp: Perfect for calling and messaging other WhatsApp users for free.
- FaceTime Audio: A great option for high-quality voice calls between Apple users.
- Skype: A classic choice, especially for calling landlines and non-Skype mobile numbers at very low rates.
- Google Voice: Allows you to get a free US number to make calls and send texts over data.
- Telegram & Facebook Messenger: More excellent options for calling other users of the same app.
Using these VoIP services over your Yoho Mobile eSIM data is often cheaper than even using your primary number. It’s the perfect solution for long conversations with family back home or for contacting local businesses without worrying about costs. Wondering how they perform? Try it out with our free eSIM trial!
Step-by-Step: Setting Up Your Phone for Calls Abroad
Ready to get started? Here’s a simple checklist to ensure you’re set up for success before you travel.
- Check Compatibility: First, ensure your device supports eSIM technology. You can see the full list on our eSIM compatible devices page.
- Install Your Yoho Mobile eSIM: Purchase a plan for your destination, for example, a Japan travel eSIM. For iOS users, the installation is incredibly simple—no QR codes needed! Just tap ‘Install’ after purchase, and you’ll be guided through the process in under a minute. For Android users, you can find detailed instructions in our Android installation guide.
- Configure Your Phone’s Settings:
- Go to your phone’s Cellular/Mobile settings.
- Set Cellular Data to your Yoho Mobile eSIM.
- Set Default Voice Line to your primary number.
- Ensure “Allow Cellular Data Switching” is turned OFF to prevent accidental roaming on your primary SIM.
- Enable Wi-Fi Calling: In your phone’s settings for your primary SIM, make sure the “Wi-Fi Calling” toggle is turned ON. Consult your home carrier’s website for any specific instructions.
- You’re All Set! Your phone will now intelligently use Yoho Mobile’s data for all your internet needs while keeping your primary number active for calls and texts via Wi-Fi Calling.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Can I receive SMS verification codes (2FA) with a data-only eSIM?
No, you cannot receive them on the data-only eSIM itself. However, because you keep your primary SIM active for calls/texts, you will receive these important SMS messages on your regular number, just as you would at home. This is a major benefit of the dual SIM setup.
2. Will I be charged by my home carrier for calls while using a Yoho Mobile eSIM?
If you have Wi-Fi Calling enabled and properly configured, calls and texts to and from your home country are typically charged at your standard domestic rate (which may be free). Calls to international numbers will be charged according to your home carrier’s international calling rates. Always confirm with your home provider before you travel.
3. How much data do voice calls over apps like WhatsApp use?
A standard voice call on an app like WhatsApp is very efficient. It uses approximately 0.5 MB to 1 MB of data per minute, so a 1GB data plan could give you over 1,000 minutes of talk time.
4. Does Yoho Mobile offer an eSIM that comes with a phone number?
Currently, Yoho Mobile specializes in providing high-value, data-only eSIMs. This focus allows us to offer the most competitive and flexible data packages for travelers. By using the Dual SIM and VoIP methods described above, you get the best of both worlds: affordable data and full access to your primary phone number.
Conclusion: Stay Connected, Your Way
Using a data-only eSIM doesn’t mean giving up your phone number. With the dual SIM technology in your smartphone, you can easily keep your original number while traveling internationally for important calls and texts, all while using a cost-effective Yoho Mobile data plan to avoid roaming fees.
By leveraging Wi-Fi Calling and popular VoIP apps, you gain the freedom to communicate how you want, when you want, without any surprises on your bill. And with the added peace of mind from services like Yoho Care, you’re always protected from losing connection.
Ready to travel smarter? Find the perfect travel eSIM for your next trip to the USA or Europe today!