If you're planning a trip and looking for cheap mobile data abroad, there's a good chance you've come across Airalo. It's one of the most popular eSIM providers, and for good reason — it's easy to use, has global coverage, and lets you skip the hassle of buying SIM cards in each country.
But there's one big question that keeps coming up: Can you make calls with Airalo?
Let's clear it up.
Does Airalo Support Voice Calls?
The short answer: not really.
Airalo is a data-only eSIM provider. That means it gives you mobile internet — not a phone number. You can't use it to make traditional phone calls or send standard SMS messages.
What you can do is use internet-based services like:
- WhatsApp or FaceTime Audio
- Skype or Zoom
- Telegram, Signal, or similar apps
These rely on data, so as long as you're connected, you can talk to people. But you won't be able to dial or receive calls using your UK number through your phone's default app.
Why That Might Be a Problem
If you're traveling for a short trip, using WhatsApp might be fine. But in a lot of situations, relying on data-only calling can become frustrating:
- You can't receive verification texts (for banks, logins, or deliveries)
- You can't receive regular calls to your personal number
- People back home might not know how to reach you if they don't use internet calling apps
And if you need to call a local business, hotel, or service line — many of those don't use apps like WhatsApp.
So What's the Alternative?
Here's where Keep My Number comes in.
It's a service that lets you keep your UK number active while you travel. That means:
- You can receive calls and texts on your regular number
- You get bank codes, SMS verifications, and 2FA just like normal
- You stay reachable to clients, friends, and family — no explanations needed
And here's the best part: Keep My Number also offers affordable global data, just like Airalo — but with the added benefit of keeping your number alive.
So you don't have to choose between being connected and being reachable. You can have both.
Final Answer
Can Airalo make calls? Technically no — at least not regular calls with your UK number.
If you want cheap data abroad, Airalo works. But if you want to actually stay reachable on your number and get those all-important texts and calls —
Keep My Number is built exactly for that.
Ready to Keep Your Number?
Stay connected while traveling – download the app now and keep your number wherever you are in the world!
