When buying a travel eSIM, many users wonder: what is the difference between a data-only eSIM and one that includes calls? Is it worth paying more for calls? The answer depends entirely on your traveler profile.
The main difference
| Feature | Data-only eSIM | eSIM with calls |
|---|---|---|
| What it includes | GB of internet | GB + call minutes + local number |
| Phone number | ❌ No | ✅ Local destination number |
| Incoming calls | ❌ Not directly | ✅ Yes, to local number |
| Calls to Spain | With apps (WhatsApp) | With apps OR directly |
| Price | € | €€–€€€ |
| Typical price (10 GB / 30 days) | €8–15 | €20–45 |
| What percentage of users choose | ~78% | ~22% |
Data-only eSIM: who it's for
Data-only eSIMs like those from PuraSIM are perfect for:
- Tourists and travelers who mainly need internet (Maps, social media, WhatsApp)
- Nomads who make all their calls via VoIP (WhatsApp, Zoom, Telegram)
- People with Dual SIM who keep their Spanish SIM for calls
- Anyone who doesn't need to receive calls on a local destination number
eSIM with calls: who it's for
eSIMs with calls included are necessary when:
- You need a local number to receive calls from local contacts (e.g., calls from Airbnb, reserved restaurants, tour operators)
- You use banking apps in the destination country that require local SMS verification
- Your job requires local contacts to be able to call you without it being long-distance for them
- You make long stays (1–3 months) and want to integrate more
| Use case | Do you need an eSIM with calls? | Alternative if you don't want to pay more |
|---|---|---|
| WhatsApp/Telegram with contacts in Spain | ❌ No | Data eSIM + Dual SIM |
| Receive calls from local hotels or tours | ⚠️ Sometimes | Provide WhatsApp number from home country |
| SMS verification for local banking apps | ✅ May be necessary | Email verification when possible |
| Remote work with local clients at the destination | ✅ Recommended | Depends on frequency |
| Uber/taxi at the destination requiring number verification | ❌ No | Most Ubers don't require a local number |
When do you really need calls?
The practical reality: 78% of travelers who use data-only eSIMs don't miss calls. The reason is that almost all modern communication (WhatsApp, social media, email) works perfectly with data only.
The cases where you genuinely need a local number are more specific: mainly when at the destination they expect you to have a local number so they can call you free of charge.
Conclusion
For the vast majority of travelers, a data-only eSIM like those from PuraSIM is sufficient. 78% of users do not need a local number. If you need calls, use WhatsApp — it's free and the person in Spain pays nothing extra. Only invest in an eSIM with calls if you have a specific use case that justifies it.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I receive calls to my Spanish number with a data-only eSIM?
Yes, if you have Dual SIM with your Spanish SIM active. Calls to your Spanish number go to the physical SIM, regardless of whether your data eSIM is active.
Do eSIMs with calls work in all countries?
Not necessarily. eSIMs with calls often have more limited coverage than data-only ones. Always check the specific destination.
Is the local number of an eSIM with calls permanent?
No. The local number is temporary, valid for the duration of the plan. When the plan expires, the number is released.
Can a data eSIM receive SMS?
Data-only eSIMs do not have an assigned phone number and therefore cannot receive SMS directly. For SMS verifications, you can use your Spanish SIM number.
Is it worth paying double for an eSIM with calls?
Only if you have a clear use case that requires it. For 80% of tourist travelers, the difference is unnecessary.
