How to use WhatsApp internationally?

WhatsApp helps you stay in contact with friends and family, even when traveling abroad. You can use WhatsApp to text and make voice and video calls without using up your SMS or call minutes.

In this article, we cover the ins and outs of using WhatsApp — from setting it up to understanding possible costs, and how an eSIM helps ensure you can use WhatsApp while traveling without racking up roaming charges.

What is WhatsApp?

WhatsApp is a popular messaging app with many features including video and voice calls, texting, media sharing (photos, videos, and audio), and group chatting.

It’s a free app that uses your cellular data or a WiFi connection to work.

What is the difference between SMS and WhatsApp?

WhatsApp and SMS (Short Message Service) differ in the type of connection they need to function. WhatsApp relies on an active internet connection, whereas SMS requires a cellular network to work. 

In addition to standard messaging, WhatsApp offers a range of valuable features, including voice and video calls, media sharing, group chats, location sharing, delivery and read reports, and end-to-end encryption.

In contrast, SMS offers a much more limited set of functionalities besides plain text messages. You can use SMS for media sharing (although this is often more restrictive regarding the file size you can send) and group messaging. 

Another crucial consideration is price. All WhatsApp messages are free to send and receive regardless of where you are in the world — given you have an internet connection.

SMS, on the other hand, can incur fees both nationally and internationally due to their reliance on cellular networks. 

Some cellular plans can include free national messaging but often charge per-message for international messages.

The price per message is higher if an SMS includes an image or video, as these place greater strain on the cellular network.

Here’s a comparison of the two: 

Does using WhatsApp internationally cost money?

No, WhatsApp is free to use internationally. You only need an internet connection to send and receive messages, make phone calls, and share media. 

If you use it connected to a WiFi network, it will be entirely free. However, if you use it while connected to a mobile data plan, it will consume your data.

While you won’t pay for WhatsApp directly, you will pay for your data usage. 

How does WhatsApp work internationally?

Using WhatsApp abroad is just like using it at home. As long as you’ve got an internet connection you can send and receive international calls and messages free of charge, just remember to include the correct country codes when dialing international numbers.

How can I avoid international charges on WhatsApp?

To avoid international charges on WhatsApp, you can:

• Use WiFi: Connect to WiFi networks whenever possible to avoid data roaming charges.
  
• Purchase an eSIM card: If you’re traveling for an extended period, consider purchasing an eSIM card. eSIMs are a digital alternative to traditional physical SIM cards. Some eSIMs come with unlimited data, ensuring you’re always connected at no extra cost. 

Using a Holafly eSIM will allow you to connect to WhatsApp in no time with unlimited data in over 200 countries around the world. 

What are the advantages of using WhatsApp internationally?

WhatsApp is one of the best ways to stay connected while traveling internationally. Some of its highlights include:

• Free instant messages 
• Voice and video calls
• Real-time location sharing
• Media sharing of images, videos, GIFs, and more
• Group chats and broadcasts

How safe is it to use WhatsApp while traveling?

WhatsApp is safe to use while traveling. The app offers end-to-end encryption, which keeps your messages private from when you hit send to when they arrive with the recipient — preventing anyone from intercepting and reading them while they travel through the network. 

Put simply, end-to-end encryption scrambles the message from the sender before it’s sent, and unscrambles it upon delivery using a key that only the recipient’s device has access to. This ensures that messages remain completely private.

This said, it’s always essential to keep tabs on network security. Avoid connecting to open public WiFi networks unless absolutely necessary and choose secure or password-protected ones, especially when you need to access sensitive information.

How to install and set up WhatsApp: Step-by-step

You can install and use WhatsApp in just five easy steps.

However, before you start, remember that you will need to receive an SMS or a call with a confirmation code during the activation. Make sure you have that option.

1. Check your compatibility

Most modern devices, including iPhones, Android, and Windows phones, support WhatsApp. It all depends on the operating system they are using. At this moment, WhatsApp is available for:

• Android OS 5.0 and later
• iPhone iOS 12 and later

WhatsApp used to support KaiOS, but it doesn’t anymore. If WhatsApp stops supporting your operating system version, it will notify you about this change.

2. Download the app

WhatsApp is available in major application stores and directly via the WhatsApp website:

• App Store (iOS) and Google Play Store (Android): Search for “WhatsApp” and download the app.
• Other platforms: Visit WhatsApp’s official website for download instructions for other supported platforms.

The download should only take a few minutes and requires minimal phone storage.

3. Select your language and verify your phone number

When you open the app, you’ll be given the option to choose your language. Then, enter your phone number and select your country code.

WhatsApp will send a verification code to your phone via SMS — or you can opt for a phone call. Enter the code into the app to confirm your number and start using WhatsApp.

4. Create your profile

Once you’re set up, you can begin to make your WhatsApp yours. Add your name and profile picture (if you want to!), and set a status that contacts can see.

You can also personalize your chat background with an image that will be visible only to you.

5. Start using WhatsApp

You’re now ready to start using WhatsApp! The platform offers various messaging capabilities, including texts, pre-recorded video messages, audio notes, GIFs, and more.

Plus, you can quickly and easily reach multiple people at once with group chats and broadcast messages. 

WhatsApp also enables you to quickly connect with loved ones on voice and video calls — both one-on-one and in groups!

All you need is to make sure you have data for your travels, and you’re good to go.

Can I use WhatsApp with an eSIM when traveling abroad?

Yes, you can use WhatsApp with an eSIM when traveling abroad. As long as your eSIM plan provides data connectivity (most do), you’ll be able to use WhatsApp to send and receive messages, make calls, and share media.

Will I be able to use my existing WhatsApp account with an eSIM?

Yes, you can use your existing WhatsApp account with an eSIM. 

As eSIMs don’t typically come with a phone number, and work alongside your existing SIM, you’ll be able to use the WhatsApp account associated with your usual number.

Your account will remain connected to your main cell number — which is what determines your WhatsApp contact details — and the eSIM will ensure you’re connected to the internet — which is how you send and receive messages with WhatsApp.

However, in the unlikely event that your eSIM does come with a new phone number, you’ll need to set up a new WhatsApp account on the new number while traveling. 

If for any reason you uninstall WhatsApp from your phone, you’ll need access to your main phone number to reinstall it.

This isn’t an issue with an eSIM (with or without a number), as they don’t require you to remove your physical SIM. 

As long as you don’t uninstall WhatsApp and opt for an eSIM that doesn’t tie you down with a new phone number (like Holafly’s data-only eSIMs), you’ll have no issues using your existing WhatsApp account with an eSIM. 

How can I use WhatsApp with an eSIM?

To use WhatsApp with an eSIM, you must first install and activate it. eSIM installation and configuration steps may differ based on your phone and wireless service provider, but it’s typically a straightforward process.

Once you’ve purchased an eSIM plan for your eSIM-compatible phone, you’ll receive an email with instructions on how to set up your eSIM. From there, you can:

1. Activate the eSIM (by scanning the enclosed QR code or by manually inputting the activation code)
2. Open the WhatsApp app
3. Start using it to message as normal

Once your eSIM is activated, you’ll be using its data connection to access WhatsApp. 

Use WhatsApp internationally with Holafly

You’re now equipped with all the knowledge you need to leverage WhatsApp for seamless communication during your travels.

While free WiFi or mobile roaming can be an option, they can be limiting and inconvenient. This is where Holafly’s eSIM can save the day.

With Holafly, you get: 

1. Instant activation: Get online and connected to WhatsApp in minutes, no need for complicated SIM card swaps.
2. Unlimited data-only plans: No more worrying about roaming charges or surprise bills, and no temporary phone numbers for your friends and family to add. Just unlimited data from the minute you touch down.
3. Flexible plans: Choose the perfect data plan that suits your needs and budget, ensuring you stay connected without breaking the bank.
4. Global coverage and connectivity: Enjoy WhatsApp and other apps seamlessly across over 200 countries. 

Happy travels!

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Olly Keell

Olly is a writer based in Manchester who grew up on the islands of the Bahamas on the smallest Island, Bimini. He discovered a great passion for writing while running an e-commerce store with his sister. He followed his passion and talent for writing and armed himself with a great understanding of SEO which led him to write for some amazing startups. When he’s not writing, he’ll often attend writers' meetups or travel to new places with his partner.

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