This is NOT an official government website. We are an independent resource providing information and assistance to travelers.

What are the best eSIM options for UK banking with a Thai number and which phone is compatible?

Dec 15, 2025
2 days ago
Caroline ***********
ORIGINAL POSTER
Recommendations for an esim for UK banking, best compatible phone and advice as not very tech savvy,

Thank you 😞
671
views
22
replies
2
images
6
users
TLDR : Answer Summary
When seeking an esim for UK banking while living in Thailand, it's important to note that not all banks accept Thai numbers—Halifax does, but Nationwide does not. Many users recommend purchasing a temporary esim, like Airalo, upon arrival in the UK to secure internet access. They usually switch to a more affordable local esim from providers like AIS or TRUE in Thailand. Giffgaff is also suggested as a compatible option for those needing UK numbers.
Peter *********
Devyce
Peter *********
Its registered as a uk number if anyone checks and gives a uk ring tone if you are abroad
Caroline ***********
ORIGINAL POSTER
@Peter ********
Thank you again, have had a few test calls to the UK, so far all ok, going out and incoming 👍🙏
Caroline ***********
ORIGINAL POSTER
@Peter ********
thank you, I had a problem with my email..so it directed me to the webpage, Xpatphone...where you can get a free trial, so hopefully that will work,👍
Peter *********
Download it and have a look
Caroline ***********
ORIGINAL POSTER
@Peter ********
having a go now 👍
Caroline ***********
ORIGINAL POSTER
And it shows a UK telephone number?
Peter *********
Both run along side no problems same as whats app

Or line
Peter *********
Caroline ***********
ORIGINAL POSTER
@Peter ********
ok, I'm such a dinosaur with technology.... thank you. Do you just use the app separately and switch between my Thai number for making calls etc or does it run alongside my Thai number?

Sorry for so many questions 🙏
Peter *********
@Caroline **********
if you get a call just answer as normal to make a call open app and dial. It will use a sim you have installed to use the internet or wifi if you are connected
Caroline ***********
ORIGINAL POSTER
@Peter ********
thank you, so do you need an esim compatible phone for Devyce?
Peter *********
@Caroline **********
no its. an app
Peter *********
Internet no works off your normal sim or wifi

Same as uk number
Peter *******
Giffgaff now have an esim
Caroline ***********
ORIGINAL POSTER
@Peter ******
thank you, I'll have to get a new phone asap 1st that's compatible 👍
Peter *******
@Caroline **********
all phones I've bought in thailand are unlocked so no problem with uk sim, but check the phone has esim functionality
David **********
I got an Airalo esim before I left the UK.

I only get the 7 day for £4 just so that i have Internet as soon as I land.

I would then go into an AIS or TRUE shop and set up an local Esim there, works out a lot cheaper this way, I'm in Vietnam at the moment, 30 days Esim locally costs about £5, a lot cheaper than all the big providers....
Phil ********
Not all UK banks allow a Thai number for banking.

Halifax - Yes

Nationwide - No

I use Swytch £6 a month for a UK number.
Karl ************
Would you be able to keep your same number please?
Caroline ***********
ORIGINAL POSTER
Thank you do you have a link for Switch, please
Phil ********
@Caroline **********
It's not Switch, it's Swytch.

**************************************
*****
0379
Thai Visa Advice and Everything Else
... members · 60% approval rate
The Thai Visa Advice And Everything Else group allows for a broad range of discussions on life in Thailand, beyond just visa inquiries.
Join the Group
Thai Visa Advice and Everything Else
View the Conversation
Thai Visa Advice and Everything Else