If you are a traveler or even just a tech enthusiast looking to stay connected on the go with a pocket WiFi or MiFi device, you’re in luck. Are you just looking to save money on your mobile bill by using a pocket WiFi device instead of your regular cell phone? Either way, you’re probably wondering if you’ll still be able to receive calls while using one. 

Yes, you can receive phone calls while using a pocket WiFi/MiFi device. They create a complete wireless network that other devices can connect to for internet access. Your primary phone or smartphone can still receive calls and text messages if it is connected to a cellular network.

Let me walk you through all the ins and outs of using your pocket WiFi and still being able to receive phone calls to your primary number. I’ll also address various frequently asked questions on the topic to shed some more light on this growing trend.

Let’s get going!

Can I Still Receive Calls on My Primary Phone Number While Using My Pocket WiFi Device With a Local SIM Card?

How About While I’m Traveling Abroad?

Using a pocket WiFi or MiFi device to connect to the internet should not affect your ability to receive calls on your smartphone or another primary phone number.

It creates a separate wireless network that your other devices can connect to for internet access. Your smartphone or other primary phone can still receive calls and texts as long as it is connected to a cellular network.

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If you are traveling abroad and using a local SIM card in your pocket WiFi device, you may need to ensure that your primary phone is set up to use international roaming or another appropriate service. This will ensure that your phone is still able to receive calls and texts from your home country while you are using it for internet access.

Even while at home, this can be a great way to save money on your mobile bill, especially if you’re a traveler. However, you won’t get all of the features of a regular cell phone, so make sure you understand the downsides before you commit to a rental plan or purchase.

Can I Receive Calls on My Primary Phone Number While Using My Pocket WiFi While I’m Traveling Abroad?

Yes, you can also receive calls on your primary phone number while using a pocket WiFi or MiFi device with a local SIM card while traveling abroad.

When you insert a local SIM card, it creates a new mobile phone number for data and calling purposes. However, your primary phone number is still active and can receive calls as long as it is set up to use international roaming or another appropriate service. Additionally, the call quality may be affected due to factors such as the strength of the cellular network in the area where you are traveling.

To ensure that your primary phone number is set up to receive calls while using a pocket WiFi device with a local SIM card, you should contact your mobile service provider before traveling. Your provider can activate international roaming or provide other appropriate services, and may also be able to advise you on any additional fees or charges that may apply.

Take the necessary steps to ensure that your phone is set up appropriately and that you understand any associated fees or limitations.

Related: The Best Portable Pocket WiFi for Use in Europe

How Does Receiving Calls Work While I’m Using My Pocket WiFi? 

When you use your pocket WiFi device, it provides you with a unique phone number that can receive calls just like a regular cell phone. That phone number is associated with your device, and all calls that come in on that number will be routed to your device. It will then display the incoming call information, and you can accept or reject it just like you would with a regular cell phone.

What are the Benefits of Using a Pocket WiFi Device?

The main benefit of using pocket WiFi is the cost savings and mobility. You don’t have to pay for a cell phone plan, and you can still receive calls. This can be especially helpful for travelers who don’t want to pay for an international cell phone plan. Additionally, you don’t have to worry about being tied to a specific location or network. With your device can receive calls from anywhere in the world, as long as you have a connection.

What are the Downsides of Using a Pocket WiFi Device?

The downside of using pocket WiFi or MiFi is that you don’t get all of the features of a regular cell phone. For example, you may not be able to send or receive text messages or use data services. Additionally, you’ll need to make sure that you have a strong WiFi connection in order to receive calls.

Benefits of Using a Pocket WiFi DeviceDownsides of Using a Pocket WiFi Device
Cost savings – no need to pay for a cell phone planLimited features compared to a regular cell phone
Ability to receive calls from anywhere in the worldInability to send or receive text messages at times (depends on plan, device and set up)
No need to be tied to a specific location or networkNeed for a strong WiFi connection to receive calls
Ideal for travelers who don’t want to pay for an international cell phone planNo ability to use data services
Can be used with multiple devices
Provides a more secure connection than public WiFi
Can be used in areas with poor cellular coverage
A great backup option in case of a cellular network outage
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So, Will I Still Be Able to Receive Calls While Using My Pocket WiFi (MiFi)?

Yes, you can still receive calls while using your pocket WiFi/MiFi device. When you use it, it creates a separate wireless network that your other devices can connect to for internet access. Your smartphone or other primary phone can still receive calls and texts as long as it is connected to a cellular network.

If you are traveling abroad and using a local SIM card in your WiFi unit, you may need to ensure that your primary phone is set up to use international roaming or another appropriate service. This will ensure that your phone is still able to receive calls and texts from your home country while you are using the pocket WiFi for internet access.

This can be a great way to save money on your mobile bill, especially if you’re a traveler, and even when you’re at home. However, you won’t get all of the features of a regular cell phone, so make sure you understand the downsides before you commit to using a pocket WiFi device.

It’s always a good idea to check with your mobile service provider or review their terms and conditions to ensure that you understand any potential limitations or fees associated with using pocket WiFi or MiFi while traveling.

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