How to receive incoming texts while abroad

[Gracetheyoung1]

I am traveling abroad and I need to be able to receive incoming texts. I do not want to use travel pass and I have a local Sim card. I believe I also have an  eSIM for my Verizon phone number. I am thinking that once a day or twice a day I could activate my Esim and let incoming text messages come in at five cents each. However I don't want to get for example all of my emails and everything because I don't want to pay for roaming data. Is this possible?

[vzw_customer_support · Accepted solution]

We want to make sure you're able to get those incoming texts without using data while you're traveling without any issues. It isn't possible to specifically only allow texts without allowing calls/data t be used on your phone when activating your eSIM. What I recommend is using TravelPass and if any data or calls accidentally come through, you only get charged the TravelPass amount instead of the pay as you go charges. TravelPass is only activated if there's an incoming/outgoing call, data is used, or if there's an outgoing text. Incoming texts won't trigger it. Here's a link to our Trip Planner where you can find more info: https://www.verizon.com/plans/international/international-travel/trip-planner-tool/

~Jesse

[Gracetheyoung1]

Is there a way to keep my emails from coming tbrough? Or from some apps from auto updating?

[vzw_customer_support]

I know I would want to avoid unexpected charges while traveling abroad myself, Gracetheyoung1. The best way to do this would be to turn your mobile data off. This would still allow incoming text messages to come in over the cellular network, but restrict any data driven applications like email or application updates. What make & model is your phone so we can provide you with those specific steps? It's also important to note that Message+ works over Wi-Fi, so you'd still receive your incoming messages and be able to send outgoing messages while in Airplane mode while connected to Wi-Fi.

-Joseph

[johnbiscevic]

I am in Thailand using pay as you go. I have been receiving texts (via SMS) without any problem until two days ago. Now I can send, but not receive (including texts from Verizon authorizing web access). 

Any ideas what is happening? I have not changed any settings on my phone.

[vzw_customer_support]

I'm sorry you are having issues while traveling Johnbiscevic. We would love to help. Can you use data? What about phone calls? What phone do you have?-Joe

[Pete2802]

Earlier this month (December 2023) Verizon seems to have blocked the ability to receive text messages while abroad using Pay as You Go rates.  I am traveling in Europe for a couple of months and do not want to pay $10/day for the Travel Pass. I have a dual SIM iPhone and I only need access to my U.S. Verizon number in order to receive texts for 2 factor authentication, which I did not mind paying the 0.05 each cost. I’m paying my Verizon bill for almost no reason other than to receive these texts. This is a HUGE problem. If it is not resolved, rest assured  I will be switching carriers upon my return to the U.S.

[vzw_customer_support]

Pete2802 We're sorry to read about the issue with your texts. When you turn on service, do you see any signal on your device? Are you able to make a call or use data? ~Peter

[rubyayala]

If you're abroad and wanna get texts without a travel pass, use your local SIM card. Check if you have an eSIM too. Activate it once or twice a day to get texts for 5 cents each. But, be careful, don't activate it for emails or other stuff to avoid paying for roaming data. That's the plan!