Can you use Uber overseas without a local phone number?

Traveling abroad can be an exciting adventure, but navigating public transportation in unfamiliar territory can sometimes be daunting. Rather than figuring out the public transport, many travelers might decide to opt to use ride share or ride-hailing apps and services instead. While pricier than public transport, these apps offer better comfort and greater convenience. And even if you are planning to rely mostly on public transportation to get around, it is handy to have a local ride-hailing app installed on your phone as a back-up option in case you need it!

If you are preparing for your trip, and wondering if you would be able to use Uber in your destination without a local phone number, don't worry, because you can. Let's take a look at how.

Using Uber Overseas without a Local Number

Uber, like many other ride-sharing services, primarily operates through its mobile application, which relies on a user's phone number for registration and verification purposes.

The good news for travelers is that Uber's registration and verification processes are not localised, and not tied to any geographical location. That is to say, you will be able to use an international number (or essentially, your home number) to register for an Uber account.

If you are already using an Uber account at home, you can continue to use that account when you travel. There is no need for you to create a new account for your travels.

And, if you don't already have an Uber account, you can simply register for an account with your home number. Do note that as part of the registration process, you will need to be able to receive a SMS for the verification. So it is recommended that you create this account at home - or if you are overseas, make sure you are still able to receive SMSes on your home line.

You will still need internet access to use Uber overseas

While you do not need to have a local phone number for you to use Uber when you are overseas, it is important to note that you will still need to have internet access - whether via WiFi or mobile data.

Internet connectivity is required for you to be able to connect to Uber's services and to get a ride. The good news is that there are many different ways for you to get mobile data while traveling abroad — travel SIM cards, travel eSIMs, local tourist SIM cards, international roaming, or even a pocket WiFi. Of course, there is also the option of relying on local public WiFi hotspot, though that isn't always going to be reliable.

One of the best ways to helping you stay connected while traveling is to get a travel eSIM — provided your phone is eSIM-compatible. A travel eSIM provides data at near-local rates (and in some cases, could even be cheaper than local rates) while offering the convenience of not having to fiddle with a physical SIM card.

Furthermore, with a travel eSIM, you can keep your primary SIM card in your device while you are traveling - which also means that you can receive SMSes on your primary line (as long as your primary plan allows you to receive SMSes while abroad)!

Get a Nomad travel eSIM for your next trip

Nomad offers data plans in over 170 countries, and you can be sure to find one that is suitable for your travel needs. And if you will be traveling across multiple countries, there are also regional plans available so you can stay seamlessly connected as you hop between countries. Data plans are available from as low as $1.10/GB.

The networks that Nomad's eSIMs use for each plan are stated on the plan details on the web store and apps, so you can check which networks are supported before buying your plan. Data sharing and tethering is also supported on Nomad's eSIM plans.

And, if you are unsure about how much data you need for your trip, Nomad also has a Data Calculator that can help you find the plan that is most suitable for you. Also check out our blog post on data-saving tips when traveling to keep your data usage in check when traveling.

Nomad also has a 24-hour customer support team. So, in the event where you face difficulties while using your eSIM, rest assured there will be someone available to help you resolve your issues!