You can keep your Singapore number active while using a travel eSIM, as long as your mobile phone supports dual SIMs. Most modern phones allow one physical SIM and one eSIM, or two eSIMs, to work at the same time. This guide explains how to set up your device so your usual number stays available for calls and texts, while the eSIM provides data for your trip.
Dual SIM basics for Singapore travellers
Dual SIM means your phone can hold two active profiles at once. One profile is usually your Singapore mobile number, either on a physical SIM or an eSIM. The other profile is the travel eSIM you buy before departure. When both are active, your phone can receive calls and messages on your Singapore number, while using the eSIM for internet data.
Not every phone supports dual SIM, and some models limit how the two lines work. Check your phone’s settings or user guide to confirm it supports two active SIMs. If your phone only allows one SIM at a time, you cannot keep your Singapore number active while the travel eSIM is in use.
Choosing the data line for your travel eSIM
When you insert or activate a travel eSIM, your phone will ask which line should provide mobile data. Select the travel eSIM as the data line. This ensures that all internet traffic-such as maps, messaging, and browsing-uses the eSIM plan, not your Singapore number’s roaming.
The non-data line (your Singapore number) will still work for calls and texts if the phone supports that. Some phones allow you to set a default line for calls and another for data. Make sure the data line is set to the eSIM, and the voice line remains your Singapore number.
Roaming risk on your primary SIM
If your Singapore number does not have an active roaming plan, using it overseas can incur roaming charges for calls, texts, or data. Even if the data line is set to the eSIM, your phone might still use the primary SIM for certain services, such as sending an SMS or making a call. To avoid unexpected charges, check your primary SIM’s roaming settings before you leave Singapore.
You can usually turn off data roaming for the primary SIM in your phone’s settings. This does not disable the SIM entirely; it only stops that line from using mobile data abroad. Calls and texts may still be possible, but they could be charged at roaming rates. Contact your Singapore mobile operator to confirm the roaming costs and whether any travel packs are available.
Calls and texts on your Singapore number
With a travel eSIM active, your Singapore number can still receive calls and texts if your phone supports dual SIM standby. The phone will alert you when a call or message arrives on the primary line. You can answer or reply as usual, but be aware that using the primary line for calls or texts may incur roaming charges from your Singapore operator.
If you want to avoid those charges, consider using messaging apps like WhatsApp, Telegram, or Signal for calls and texts. These apps use internet data, so they run on the travel eSIM’s data plan. You can still receive messages sent to your Singapore number if the app is linked to that number, but the data usage will come from the eSIM, not your primary line.
Setting up before departure
To make the process smooth, set up your travel eSIM before you leave Singapore. You will need a stable internet connection, usually Wi-Fi, to download the eSIM profile. Once downloaded, the eSIM may be ready to use when you arrive, but some plans require activation on a specific date. Follow the instructions from your eSIM provider for the correct setup.
After installation, go to your phone’s SIM settings and confirm the travel eSIM is listed as the data line. You may also want to test the eSIM connection by turning off Wi-Fi and opening a webpage. If the data works, you are ready for your trip.
Using your phone on arrival
When you land, your phone should automatically connect to the travel eSIM’s data network if the eSIM is set as the data line. If it does not, manually select the eSIM as the data line in your settings. You may need to enable data roaming for the eSIM profile, as many travel eSIMs require that setting to work overseas.
Once connected, you can use your usual apps, browse the internet, and stay in touch through messaging apps. Your Singapore number remains active, so you can still receive calls and texts if needed. However, keep an eye on the primary SIM’s roaming status to avoid any charges.
Travel eSIM vs. roaming on your Singapore number
For many Singapore travellers, a travel eSIM can be a more cost-effective alternative to roaming on a Singapore number. Roaming rates from local operators can be high, especially for data. A travel eSIM offers a fixed amount of data for a set price, which can help you budget for your trip.
However, the right choice depends on your destination and how much data you need. If you only need data for maps and messaging, a small eSIM data plan may be enough. If you plan to stream videos or make video calls, consider a larger data allowance. Always compare the cost of roaming on your Singapore number with the price of a travel eSIM for the same period.
Choosing the right data plan for your trip
Before buying a travel eSIM, estimate how much data you typically use per day. Common activities like navigation, social media, and email use less data than video streaming or large downloads. A plan with 1 GB to 3 GB per day is often sufficient for light users, while heavy users might need 5 GB or more.
TPG Mobile offers travel eSIM plans for various destinations. The exact data amounts and prices vary by plan and destination, so check the product page for the latest details. Also confirm that the eSIM is compatible with your phone model and the destination country’s networks.
Choosing the right travel eSIM plan
When comparing travel eSIM plans, consider the duration of your trip and how much data you typically use. A plan that covers your entire holiday may be more convenient than topping up a smaller plan. Some plans offer a set amount of data for a fixed number of days, while others allow you to add more data if you run out.
Check the plan’s coverage in your destination. Most travel eSIMs work in multiple countries, but some are specific to one region. If you are travelling to more than one country, a regional plan might be more economical. Always read the plan details to confirm the data allowance and validity period.
Keeping your Singapore number for calls and texts
If you want to keep your Singapore number for receiving calls and texts while travelling, a dual-SIM setup is the most straightforward way. Ensure your phone supports two active SIMs, and set the travel eSIM as the data line. Turn off data roaming on the primary SIM to avoid accidental data charges. Use messaging apps for internet-based communication when possible.
If your phone does not support dual SIM, you cannot keep your Singapore number active while using a travel eSIM. In that case, consider using a different device for the eSIM, or purchase a physical SIM at your destination. Alternatively, you could rely on Wi-Fi and messaging apps, but you will not be able to receive calls or texts on your Singapore number while the eSIM is active.
Final tips for a smooth experience
Before your trip, confirm that your phone is unlocked and supports eSIM technology. Most newer phones from major brands support eSIM, but older or budget models may not. Also, check the coverage of the travel eSIM at your destination, as some countries have limited network partners.
Keep a record of your eSIM’s APN settings or installation instructions in case you need to troubleshoot. If you encounter issues, contact the eSIM provider’s support team. Remember to keep your primary SIM’s roaming settings in mind throughout your journey.
