Do You Keep Your Phone Number with Holafly? Complete Guide to eSIM and Phone Numbers
One of the most common questions we receive about using Holafly eSIMs is whether you can keep your regular phone number while traveling. The short answer is yes, you absolutely can keep your phone number with Holafly, but there are some important details to understand about how this works.
After using Holafly eSIMs across 20+ countries during our family travels, we've learned exactly how phone numbers work with eSIM technology and what travelers need to know.
The Simple Answer: Yes, You Keep Your Phone Number
You keep your original phone number when using Holafly eSIM. Holafly provides data-only eSIM plans, which means your existing phone number remains active on your primary SIM or eSIM line. This dual-SIM functionality allows you to:
- Receive calls and texts on your regular number
- Use unlimited data through your Holafly eSIM
- Avoid expensive international roaming charges
- Stay connected with family and work contacts
Think of it like having two phone lines in one device - your home number for calls and texts, plus Holafly for internet access.
How Dual SIM Technology Works with Holafly
Modern smartphones support multiple SIM cards simultaneously, either through physical SIM slots or eSIM technology. Here's how it works with Holafly:
Your Primary Line (Original Phone Number)
- Handles voice calls and text messages
- Keeps your familiar phone number
- Can be set to roaming or airplane mode to avoid charges
- Remains active for incoming calls and texts
Your Holafly eSIM Line
- Provides unlimited data connectivity
- Handles all internet traffic
- Supports video calls through apps like WhatsApp, FaceTime
- No traditional calling or SMS capabilities
This setup gives you the best of both worlds: familiar communication plus affordable international data.
Step-by-Step Guide to Using Your Phone Number with Holafly
Before Travel
- Purchase your Holafly eSIM using code ADAMANDLINDS for 5% off
- Install the eSIM profile but don't activate data roaming yet
- Contact your carrier about international roaming options for calls/texts
- Test both lines to ensure proper setup
Upon Arrival at Your Destination
- Enable data roaming on your Holafly eSIM line only
- Disable data roaming on your primary line to avoid charges
- Keep your primary line active for calls and texts
- Use Holafly for all internet activities
Managing Both Lines During Travel
- Set Holafly as default for cellular data
- Use primary line for voice calls and SMS
- Switch between lines as needed in phone settings
- Monitor usage to avoid unexpected roaming charges
What Holafly Provides vs. What You Keep
What Holafly Gives You
- Unlimited data in 190+ countries
- Local network access through premium carriers
- Hotspot capability for sharing with other devices
- 24/7 customer support in multiple languages
- Instant activation upon arrival
What You Keep from Your Original Carrier
- Your existing phone number for calls and texts
- Contact accessibility for family and work
- Voicemail and messaging services
- Banking and two-factor authentication continuity
- Emergency contact capabilities
Real-World Experience: Managing Two Lines While Traveling
During our six-month stay in Vietnam and multiple trips throughout Asia, we've perfected the art of managing dual SIM functionality with Holafly eSIMs.
Family communication: The girls can still FaceTime their grandparents using our original phone numbers through WiFi or Holafly's data connection.
Work continuity: Lindsay's travel advisor business continues seamlessly with clients able to reach her on her regular number, while she uses Holafly's unlimited data for research and booking activities.
Banking and security: Two-factor authentication texts arrive on our primary numbers, ensuring secure access to banking and important accounts while abroad.
Phone Number Options by Plan Type
Holafly Data-Only Plans
- Keep your existing number: Active for calls and texts
- No new phone number provided: Holafly is data-only
- Full compatibility: Works with any carrier's phone number
- Cost: Starting at $1.99/day with code ADAMANDLINDS
Holafly Plans with Phone Numbers (Select Destinations)
Some Holafly plans include local phone numbers for specific countries:
- Europe regional plans: May include European phone number
- Local calling capability: Can make and receive calls
- SMS functionality: Send and receive text messages
- Premium pricing: Slightly higher cost for voice-enabled plans
Managing International Roaming Costs
Smart Roaming Strategy
- Keep your primary line active for important calls and texts
- Disable data roaming on your primary line to avoid charges
- Use Holafly exclusively for internet access
- Enable WiFi calling when available to reduce costs
Carrier Settings for Holafly Use
- T-Mobile: Offers free international texting and low-cost calls
- Verizon: Provides international monthly plans that work with Holafly data
- AT&T: Offers international roaming packages for calls/texts only
- International carriers: Check with your provider for text-only plans
Apps That Work Better with Your Original Number
Banking and Financial Apps
Most banking apps require your original phone number for two-factor authentication and security verification. Keeping your primary line active ensures continued access to:
- Online banking platforms
- Investment accounts
- Payment apps like Venmo or PayPal
- Cryptocurrency exchanges
Social Media and Communication
- WhatsApp: Tied to your original phone number
- Telegram: Uses your primary number for verification
- Signal: Requires your regular phone number
- Instagram/Facebook: Two-factor authentication through your original number
Travel and Transportation Apps
- Uber/Lyft: Account verification through your primary number
- Airbnb: Host communication and verification
- Airline apps: Flight updates and check-in notifications
- Hotel booking platforms: Confirmation and support communications
Troubleshooting Common Phone Number Issues
Problem: Not Receiving Texts on Original Number
Solution: Ensure your primary line has roaming enabled for SMS but not data. Contact your carrier to verify international texting capabilities.
Problem: High Roaming Charges Despite Using Holafly
Solution: Double-check that cellular data is disabled on your primary line and enabled only on your Holafly eSIM.
Problem: Apps Not Working with Original Number
Solution: Some apps may need WiFi calling enabled or may require you to temporarily enable data roaming for verification, then disable it again.
Problem: Cannot Switch Between Lines
Solution: Verify both eSIM profiles are properly installed and named clearly (e.g., "Home Number" and "Holafly Travel").
Best Practices for Phone Number Management
Before You Travel
- Screenshot important settings for easy reference
- Download offline maps to reduce data dependency
- Set up WiFi calling with your primary carrier
- Test dual SIM functionality while still at home
While Traveling
- Monitor both lines for unexpected charges
- Use airplane mode strategically when you only need WiFi
- Keep emergency contacts accessible on both lines
- Update family and friends about your connectivity setup
Upon Return
- Review carrier charges for any unexpected fees
- Deactivate Holafly eSIM if no longer needed
- Restore original settings on your primary line
- Keep eSIM profile for future trips to same region
Cost Comparison: Keeping Your Number vs. New Number
Using Holafly with Your Existing Number
- Holafly eSIM: $1.99-4.99/day depending on destination
- Carrier text/call roaming: $0.25-2.00 per text, $1-3 per minute
- Total daily cost: $5-15 for moderate usage
- Benefits: Keep familiar number, no setup hassle
Getting a New Local Number
- Local SIM card: $20-50 initial cost
- Monthly service: $30-60 depending on country
- Setup complexity: High, requires carrier store visit
- Number management: Must notify all contacts of temporary number
Frequently Asked Questions
Do you lose your phone number when using Holafly eSIM?
No, you keep your original phone number when using Holafly eSIM. Holafly provides data-only plans that work alongside your existing phone number, not as a replacement.
Can I make calls with my original number while using Holafly?
Yes, your original phone number remains active for calls and texts while Holafly handles your data needs. You can make and receive calls normally, though international roaming charges may apply.
Does Holafly give you a new phone number?
Most Holafly plans are data-only and don't provide phone numbers. However, some regional plans (like Europe) may include local phone numbers for calling and texting.
How do I keep my WhatsApp number with Holafly?
WhatsApp continues working with your original phone number since it's tied to that number, not your data plan. The Holafly eSIM provides the internet connection while WhatsApp uses your existing number.
Can I receive two-factor authentication texts with Holafly?
Yes, two-factor authentication texts arrive on your original phone number, which remains active. Holafly only provides data, so your primary line handles all SMS messages.
What happens to my phone number if I travel for months?
Your phone number remains yours as long as you maintain service with your home carrier. Many carriers offer international plans or will hold your number during extended travel periods.
Do I need to tell my carrier I'm using Holafly?
You don't need to inform your carrier about Holafly specifically, but it's wise to discuss international roaming options and ensure your account allows international texting and calling.
Can I use my original number for banking apps while using Holafly?
Yes, banking apps work normally with your original phone number for verification. Holafly provides the internet connection while your primary number handles security codes and authentication.
Planning Your Connected Travel Experience
Understanding how phone numbers work with Holafly eSIMs is crucial for seamless international travel. The ability to keep your familiar number while accessing unlimited data gives you the perfect balance of connectivity and cost control.
Ready to stay connected with your phone number intact? Get your Holafly eSIM here and use code ADAMANDLINDS for 5% off all plans.
Whether you're planning a weekend getaway or months of international travel, Holafly's data-only approach ensures you stay connected without losing the phone number your contacts depend on.
Need personalized travel planning that includes connectivity solutions? Contact Lindsay at [email protected] for expert guidance on staying connected during your adventures.
Additional Travel Resources
- Travel Insurance: Protect your devices and trip with Faye Travel Insurance
- VPN Protection: Secure your connection with ExpressVPN
- Activity Booking: Find tours and experiences through GetYourGuide
FTC Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. We only recommend products and services we genuinely use and believe in. All opinions are our own based on our extensive travel experience.
