Will a travel eSIM change my WhatsApp phone number?

With the increasing ease of global travel and the need to stay connected, many travelers are turning to travel eSIMs as a convenient solution to avoid expensive roaming charges. Data-based messaging apps like WhatsApp have also replaced traditional SMSes as a primary form of communication. Do you also rely heavily on WhatsApp to stay connected with your friends and families? Wondering what happens to your WhatsApp when you switch to a travel eSIM? Let’s dive into the details.

WhatsApp and SIM cards

When creating a WhatsApp account, you will need to have a phone number. Your account is linked to your phone number, but it operates independently of your SIM card.

WhatsApp works over the internet, and your phone number is really only required for the creation of your account. In this sense, your phone number is somewhat like your account ID; and once this account is set up, you can continue to use your WhatsApp account as long as you have an internet connection, whether it's through Wi-Fi, your primary SIM, or a travel eSIM.

What Happens When You Use a Travel eSIM?

Travel eSIMs are a very popular choice for staying connected while overseas, especially if you are on a short-term trip. In recent years, with more devices being eSIM-compatible, many travelers will choose to get a travel eSIM as a cheaper alternative to international data roaming. Travel eSIMs have also gained popularity over local tourist SIMs due to the convenience that it brings about.

When you install a travel eSIM and set it as the line that you will use for data, your device will simply use the plan that is attached to the travel eSIM for your data and connectivity needs. Your primary SIM card or primary eSIM would remain in your device. You can choose to still keep your primary SIM card or eSIM active and to use it for calls, while simply relying on your travel eSIM for data.

Installing a travel eSIM doesn’t do anything to your apps, so long you do not make any changes to the configuration. That also means that you will be able to continue using your WhatsApp account as per usual — your WhatsApp account will not have a change in number simply because you are using a travel eSIM, and you will not need to make any additional changes in app settings.

Using WhatsApp with a travel eSIM

WhatsApp requires an internet connection to function, and the travel eSIM provides this connection. Your ability to send messages, make calls, and use all WhatsApp features will remain uninterrupted as long as the eSIM is active and you have data coverage.

This means that your WhatsApp contacts will still see you under the same number, and you can receive messages as usual. Similarly, your notifications will come through as usual since that primarily requires the internet.

The travel eSIM number is not used for WhatsApp unless you specifically change your registered number within the app. In rare cases, WhatsApp could detect that you have changed a SIM card and they might prompt if you want to update your number. In those cases, just make sure you choose the option to retain your original number and you will be able to use your account normally.

Get a Nomad eSIM to stay connected hassle-free when traveling

Nomad offers data plans in over 170 countries, and you can be sure to find one that is suitable for your travel needs. With a Nomad travel eSIM, you can continue to stay connected and keep in touch with your friends via WhatsApp or any other messaging apps that rely on the internet!

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.

Most of Nomad’s eSIM plans start automatically upon connection to the local network, so you can safely install your eSIM before your trip (and you probably should) without worrying that the plan gets activated too early. Double-check your plan details before purchase to be sure of the activation conditions.

If you share your Nomad referral code with your friends, your friend will be able to enjoy $7 off their first purchase (only applicable for plans $10 and more). You will also be able to enjoy $7 off your next purchase (only applicable for plans $10 and more).