If you’re planning to travel for six months or longer, you need a smart way to stay connected to your US accounts.
US mobile carriers only allow you to be out of the country for less than six months before they shut off your service.
That means if you’re gone for half a year or more, you risk losing your US number unless you plan ahead.
I’ve been there—locked out of my bank accounts while abroad—and I don’t want you to go through the same headache.
The good news is, there’s a reliable way to keep your US number while traveling, and it’s easier (and cheaper) than you think.
Key Takeaways:
- Keep your US number active with US Mobile for OTP codes.
- Use a travel eSIM like Airalo for data while abroad.
- Make calls via WhatsApp or other Wi-Fi apps.
Why Can’t I Just Use Google Voice?
Google Voice is handy for basic communication, but banks like Ally, Charles Schwab, and Vanguard won’t send verification codes to it.
If you rely on Google Voice for one-time passcodes, you’ll quickly realize it doesn’t work.
What you actually need is a legitimate US carrier number to keep your US number, which stays active even when you’re overseas.
The Best Way to Keep Your US Number Abroad
After trying several carriers, I found US Mobile to be the best balance of affordability and functionality.
Their “Light” plan keeps your US number active, and when you need to receive a bank text while abroad, you can activate International Data for just $15 for 30 days.
This is a lifesaver for those random times when your bank insists on sending an OTP code.
The trick is pairing your US Mobile SIM with an eSIM for travel like Airalo.
This combination keeps you connected internationally for daily use while keeping your US number alive in the background for important messages.
Pro Tip:
You must set up your US Mobile account BEFORE you leave the States. It is not possible to move your number over once you have left!!
What is a Travel eSIM and Why Use It?
A travel eSIM, like Airalo, is a digital SIM you can install directly on your phone. No physical card, no hunting down phone shops in a new city, and no long lines at the airport.
Why is this better than grabbing a local SIM or sticking with a US carrier’s roaming plan?
Local SIM cards often require extra paperwork, passports, or cash-only payments. They’re great for long stays in one country, but if you’re hopping around, they quickly become inconvenient.
US carrier roaming is expensive and usually capped after six months abroad, making it unsustainable for long-term travelers.
A travel eSIM like Airalo offers flexibility. You can buy data in advance, top up when you need it, and use it in multiple countries without switching cards.
Step by Step: Receiving OTP Codes Abroad
Here’s exactly how to get your OTP Code while traveling:
- Keep your US Mobile SIM installed but turned OFF.
- Use your Airalo eSIM for your daily internet.
- When a US bank requests a one-time passcode, turn OFF Airalo.
- Turn ON your US Mobile SIM.
- Wait a few minutes for the international service to connect.
- Request your OTP code from your bank.
- Enter the code and complete your login.
- Turn Airalo back ON for data and switch the US Mobile SIM OFF again.
This whole process takes about five minutes, and you only need to do it every few months when a bank requires verification.
Websites:
- US Mobile – Keeping your US Number
- Airalo – Your Travel Data
- What’sApp – For Wifi Calls
Total Costs for One Year:
- US Mobile: $96 for 12 months or $8 a month for the Light Plan + $15 International Data (for 30 days) only when you need to receive an OTP code.
- Airalo: $66 for the 20 GB Discover Plan (works in 200 countries)
- Local Sims: Costs vary, but I paid anywhere from $30 – $40 USD in 2025 for a 30-day eSim in Southeast Asian countries
- Total Cost (assuming I added International Data 3 x in a year) = $207
What About Google Fi?
My partner uses Google Fi as an alternative option. It’s simple, flexible, and works almost everywhere without the need to switch SIMs.
The way Fi charges is different from US Mobile. Instead of a flat monthly or yearly plan, what you pay is based on the amount of data you use.
That makes it convenient, but it can get expensive quickly if you’re a heavy data user.
Google Fi is great if you want a one-size-fits-all solution, but for long-term travelers watching their budget, US Mobile plus Airalo wins every time.
Just keep in mind that Google Fi does not work on all phones, even older iPhones.
What if eSIMs Aren’t Available in the Country I Am Visiting?
eSIMs are incredibly convenient, but not all countries support them yet.
Places like Vietnam, the beautiful Thailand, and the Philippines make it easy to grab an eSIM (online in advance), while others like Italy still rely heavily on physical SIM cards.
In countries without eSIM support, you can always pick up a local SIM for data and keep the same OTP process with your US Mobile SIM when needed.
Also, if your phone does not have a physical SIM slot (most newer phones no longer have them) then your only option is an eSIM.
Travel Insurance
I suggest using SafetyWing for travel insurance when traveling abroad. I have found their rates to be the best coverage and they have great customer service.
How Do I Make Calls While Abroad?
WhatsApp is by far the most popular choice because it works almost everywhere in the world.
As long as you and the person you’re calling both have the app installed on your phone, you can make voice calls, video calls, and send unlimited texts for free over Wi-Fi.
Other great options include FaceTime (for iPhone users), Facebook Messenger, and Telegram.
For calling businesses back in the US, I often use Zoom since many companies won’t pick up a WhatsApp number.
With strong Wi-Fi, the quality is just as good as a regular phone call, and you won’t rack up roaming fees.
Your US Mobile number is really only there for OTP codes and verification. For day-to-day calls and chats, apps like WhatsApp keep you connected without extra cost.
Free PDF Packing List
Sign up for my monthly newsletter and get a printable travel checklist. Not just the essentials, a FULL packing list for any trip!
Final Thoughts
Traveling long term doesn’t mean giving up access to your US number or stressing about bank logins.
Forget about Google Voice—it won’t work for OTPs. Instead, set up US Mobile on the Light plan, pair it with an Airalo eSIM for travel, and only activate International Data when you need it.
It’s budget-friendly, reliable, and easy to manage. If you’re ready to simplify your digital life abroad, give Airalo a try—I’ve been using it for years and can’t imagine traveling without it.
