Use an eSIM and a physical SIM at the same time

On most recent phones you can run an eSIM and a physical SIM together — that's what 'dual SIM' means. It's the ideal travel setup: keep your home SIM in the phone for your usual number, and use a travel eSIM for cheap data abroad. Here's how it works and how to set it up.

The short answer

Yes, you can use both at once on a dual-SIM phone. Both lines stay registered, so you still get calls and texts on your home number while your data runs through the eSIM. Only one line uses mobile data at a time, but switching is a tap away in Settings.

How dual SIM works

Your phone keeps both SIMs active for calls and texts, and you choose which line handles mobile data. For travel, you set the eSIM as the data line and leave your physical SIM on for calls and verification codes on your normal number. You can set a default line for calls, or pick per contact.

How to set it up

Install your alodata eSIM (scan the QR code from your order email) before you travel.
Keep your physical SIM in the phone and leave it enabled for calls and texts.
On arrival, set the eSIM as your mobile data line and enable Data Roaming for it.
Turn off Data Roaming for your home SIM so it can't run up charges.

Is dual SIM worth it?

For travelers, absolutely. You avoid roaming fees on data while staying reachable on your home number for banking codes, calls, and messages. Running two lines can use a little more battery, but for most people the convenience and savings easily outweigh it.

Frequently asked questions

Can I use an eSIM and a physical SIM at the same time?

Yes, on a dual-SIM phone — which includes most iPhones from the XS/XR onward and many recent Android models. Both lines stay active; you just choose which one uses data.

Which SIM should I use for data when travelling?

Set your travel eSIM as the mobile data line and enable roaming for it, while keeping your home SIM on for calls and texts. Turn off roaming on the home SIM to avoid charges.

Will I still get texts on my normal number?

Yes. Your physical SIM stays active for calls and texts on your usual number, which is why dual SIM is ideal for receiving 2FA codes while you use the eSIM for data.