Questions, answered plainly
Especially the ones about calls — because “can it make calls?” means two very different things in this market.
Voice & real calls
What is the difference between data-only and voice-enabled eSIMs?
A data-only eSIM gives you mobile internet. You can call through apps like WhatsApp, FaceTime or Messenger — but only to people who use the same app. A voice-enabled eSIM adds real cellular voice minutes, so you can call ordinary mobile and landline numbers directly, the way your phone works at home.
Are these real phone calls?
Yes. On plans labelled DATA + CALLS, your call travels over the mobile network as a native cellular call — not over the internet through an app. The person you call needs nothing installed.
Can I call landlines?
Yes — that is the point of a voice-enabled plan. Hotel front desks, restaurants, car-rental offices and local businesses are exactly the calls these plans are built for. Included minutes cover the destinations listed on your plan.
Can I call local mobile numbers?
Yes. Voice-enabled plans include minutes to ordinary mobile numbers within the covered calling zone shown on each plan before you buy.
Can I receive calls?
On plans that include a phone number, yes — people can call you on that number and incoming calls are free. Data-only plans do not include a number, so they cannot receive ordinary calls.
Do I get a real phone number?
Plans labelled DATA + CALLS include a real phone number (currently +44 UK or +353 Ireland) for the validity of the plan. The number is shown on the plan page before purchase.
Are incoming calls charged?
No. Incoming calls on your included number are free. Only outgoing calls use your included minutes.
Are outgoing minutes included?
Yes — each voice-enabled plan includes a set amount of outgoing minutes (for example 60 or 120 minutes), shown clearly on the plan card and plan page before you buy.
Does every eSIM for Trips plan include voice?
No. Availability depends on the specific product. Every plan is labelled DATA ONLY or DATA + CALLS so you can see its capability before you buy.
Does voice work in every country?
Voice availability and calling zones vary by destination, plan and network. Each plan page states exactly what is included and any calling restrictions before purchase.
Using your eSIM
Can I still use WhatsApp?
Yes. Every plan includes mobile data, so WhatsApp, FaceTime, Messenger, Teams and every other app work exactly as they would on any data connection — on data-only and voice-enabled plans alike.
Can I keep my existing SIM active?
Yes. An eSIM works alongside your physical SIM on dual-SIM phones. Keep your home number active for calls and texts, and use the eSIM for data — and, on voice plans, for local calls.
Can I use hotspot?
Yes, tethering is supported on all current plans. Hotspot use shares your plan's data allowance.
How do I install the eSIM?
After checkout you receive a QR code on screen and by email. Scan it with your phone's camera, follow the two-step prompt, and the eSIM is installed in a few minutes. Step-by-step guides for iPhone and Android are included with your order.