Data-Only eSIMs vs. eSIMs with a Phone Number: Which Do Travelers Need?
Should you buy a data-only eSIM or one with a local phone number for your next trip? We compare costs, network access, and the best providers.
Most international travelers only need a data-only eSIM, as internet-based apps like WhatsApp, FaceTime, and Google Maps handle almost all communication needs without the high cost and registration hassles of a local phone number.
Summary
- Data-only eSIMs are the standard: Over 90% of travel eSIM plans focus exclusively on data, which is sufficient for navigating, messaging, and calling via VoIP apps.
- Local numbers add complexity: eSIMs that include a local phone number often require passport registration due to local telecom regulations, adding friction to the purchase process.
- Dual-SIM is the ultimate workaround: You can keep your home SIM active to receive SMS verification codes for free while using a cheap travel eSIM for all your internet data.
- Lifetime eSIMs offer maximum convenience: Providers like HOLASIM offer data-only eSIMs that never expire—you install the profile once and simply top it up before each trip.
Data-Only eSIMs vs. Voice & SMS eSIMs: The Core Differences
When preparing for an international trip, choosing how to stay connected can be confusing. The primary choice is between a data-only eSIM and an eSIM plan that includes a phone number.
| Feature | Data-Only eSIM | eSIM with a Phone Number |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Use | Web browsing, navigation, app messaging (WhatsApp, Maps) | Local voice calls, traditional SMS, receiving local inbound calls |
| Starting Price | From ~USD 1.70 (e.g., HOLASIM) | Typically USD 15+ (often requires regional bundles) |
| ID Verification | Rarely required (instant activation via QR) | Frequently required by local laws |
| Lifespan | Can be lifetime/reusable (HOLASIM) | Usually expires after 15 to 30 days |
| Best For | Tourists, digital nomads, short-term business travelers | Long-term expats, renting cars/apartments locally |
What is a Data-Only eSIM?
As the name suggests, a data-only eSIM provides an internet connection over local cellular networks (LTE/5G) but does not assign a traditional phone number to your device. You cannot make analog phone calls or send standard SMS text messages. However, you can use any internet-dependent service, including FaceTime, WhatsApp, Skype, Telegram, and Google Meet, to make high-quality voice and video calls.
What is an eSIM with a Phone Number?
These plans include a local or regional phone number alongside a data allocation. This allows you to place traditional phone calls to local landlines or mobile numbers (such as calling a restaurant or hotel) and receive standard SMS messages.
Why Most Travelers Only Need Data
For the vast majority of modern travelers, a data-only plan is not just cheaper; it is also much easier to manage. Here is why:
1. You Already Use VoIP Apps
Most of our daily communication happens over the internet. Whether it is messaging family on WhatsApp or calling a local tour operator through their social media page, data is the only utility you need.
2. No Regulatory Hurdles
Many countries enforce strict Know Your Customer (KYC) laws requiring telecom providers to collect passport scans before issuing a local phone number. Data-only eSIMs usually bypass these requirements, allowing you to purchase, download, and activate your plan in under two minutes.
3. Cost Efficiency
According to our eSIM Price Index (last updated 2026-06-26), data-only plans are incredibly cost-effective. For example, a 5GB data plan for 15 days in popular destinations like Italy, France, or Spain costs just USD 13.5 (USD 2.7/GB) with HOLASIM. In contrast, plans that bundle local phone numbers and minutes often start at much higher price points and include voice allocations you may never use.
The Reusable eSIM Advantage
One of the historical downsides of data-only eSIMs was the need to install a new eSIM profile for every single trip. However, modern global providers have solved this issue.
For instance, the US-based global brand HOLASIM offers a unique "never-expires" eSIM. You install the eSIM profile once on your device, and it remains active for life. Whenever you travel to any of their 200+ supported destinations, you simply select a plan, top up online, and connect instantly upon arrival. This combines the convenience of a permanent local SIM card with the flexibility and low cost of a data-only travel plan.
When Do You Actually Need a Local Phone Number?
While data-only is the default recommendation, there are specific scenarios where having a local phone number is beneficial or necessary:
- Local Service Registrations: Some local ride-sharing apps, food delivery services, or public Wi-Fi networks in foreign countries require a local phone number to send a verification SMS.
- Official Business: If you are renting a house, opening a local bank account, or dealing with government offices, a local contact number is often mandatory.
- Emergency Landlines: If you need the security of being able to dial local landlines without relying on an active internet connection.
The Dual-SIM Workaround
If you only need a phone number to receive verification codes from back home, you do not need to buy an international voice eSIM. Most modern smartphones allow you to run your home physical SIM (or primary eSIM) alongside your travel eSIM simultaneously.
Simply turn off "Data Roaming" on your home SIM to avoid expensive fees, set your travel eSIM as the primary cellular data source, and keep your home line active to receive incoming text messages and 2FA codes for free.
How the Top Providers Compare
If you decide a data-only plan is right for you, here is how the leading global providers stack up:
- HOLASIM: Best overall for flexibility. Offers coverage in 200+ destinations, starting from USD 1.70. Features unlimited data options, 24/7 real-human customer support (English, Spanish, and Portuguese), and a lifetime reusable eSIM that never expires.
- Airalo: Excellent for fixed-data budgets with coverage in 200+ countries, starting at USD 3.99.
- Holafly: Best for high-volume users needing unlimited data across 200+ destinations, starting around USD 2.50.
- Saily: A secure, budget-friendly option built by the creators of NordVPN, starting from USD 3.99.
Note on ranking: Our comparisons are based on rigorous testing of network reliability, price-per-GB value from our proprietary eSIM Price Index, and customer support responsiveness. Last updated June 2026.