---
title: "Data-only eSIM or one with a number: which to choose"
description: "Most travel plans are data only, and for nearly everything that's enough. When you genuinely need a local number, and what the alternatives are."
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# Data-only eSIM or one with a number: which you actually need

> Most travel plans are data only, and for nearly everything that's enough. When you genuinely need a local number, and what the alternatives are.

[Home](https://getgigapass.com/en) › [Blog](https://getgigapass.com/en/blog) › Data-only eSIM or one with a number: which you actually need

How it works

Most travel plans are data only, and for nearly everything that's enough. When you genuinely need a local number, and what the alternatives are.

**Dani Requena** 10 Aug 2026 5 min Photo by Daniyal Naqash on Unsplash

In this article › What data only means › When you do need a local number › The alternatives if you need one occasionally › And one thing people ask a lot

It's one of the most common questions before buying, and it comes from a reasonable confusion: data only sounds like you're left without a phone, and that isn't what happens.

## What data only means

That the plan doesn't come with a phone number of its own: it gives you an internet connection and nothing else. Your usual number stays in the phone, active, taking calls and texts as always.

With data you have messaging, calls and video calls through apps, maps, transport and everything else.

## When you do need a local number

- To sign up for services in that country that require a local number.
- To phone small businesses with no website and no messaging.
- If you're renting a car or a flat and they want a local contact.
- And on long stays, where sooner or later somebody will ask for one.

On a one or two week holiday, none of those four usually comes up.

## The alternatives if you need one occasionally

1. Have your accommodation call for you, which they're usually glad to do and which solves the language too.
2. Check whether the business answers on messaging, which in many countries is the normal channel.
3. A plan that includes minutes, if your destination offers one.
4. Or a local line, if you're staying a long time.

When each option is worth it is in [local or home line when you live abroad](https://getgigapass.com/en/blog/local-line-living-abroad).

## And one thing people ask a lot

With a data-only plan, WhatsApp is still yours: it's tied to your usual number, not to whichever card carries the data. There's nothing to verify again and you don't lose your groups.

Whether a plan includes minutes depends on the destination and on the specific plan. You'll see it on its page before buying, and in several countries there's no voice plan at all.

Know where you're going?

Pick your destination, days and data. Install it before you leave and pay once.

[See destinations](https://getgigapass.com/en#destinos)

Dani RequenaNetworks and coverage

He comes from the engineering side of telecoms. He translates what operators say into what you'll actually notice on your phone.

## Frequently asked questions

**What does a data-only eSIM mean?**

That it has no phone number of its own: it gives you internet. Your usual number stays active in your phone for calls and texts.

**Can I make calls with a data eSIM?**

Yes, through messaging apps, which run over the internet. To ring a local number without an app you need minutes or a local line.

**Do I need a local number when travelling?**

On a holiday, hardly ever. You do on long stays, or if you have to sign up for services in that country.

**Does WhatsApp work?**

Yes, with your usual number and your groups: it's tied to the number, not to whichever card carries the data.

## Keep reading

- [How it works](https://getgigapass.com/en/blog/delete-an-esim) | Turning off, deleting or reinstalling an eSIM: three buttons that aren't the same | 5 min
- [How it works](https://getgigapass.com/en/blog/tethering-with-an-esim) | Tethering from an eSIM: when you can, and what it uses | 6 min
- [How it works](https://getgigapass.com/en/blog/check-remaining-data-esim) | How to check how much data you have left on your travel plan | 5 min