Send SMS while abroad

[unbaby]

Hey. I recently purchased a Prepaid SIM card while i am abroad. I topped it up with 5£ but i still can send a SMS on any phone number (even 150). I used all the possible methods (adding +44, or just with a 0). Thank you in advance!

[bristolian]

EE-PAYG SIMs need to be first used in the UK before roaming is auto-enabled for use abroad.

If this is not done, then roaming is not enabled. Lack of roaming prevents a phone from connecting to a foreign network. Lack of a network connection stops the ability to make or receive calls, send or receive text messages, or use mobile data.

Did you activate your new EE PAYG SIM in the UK before travelling abroad?

[unbaby]

No i did not activate them in the UK before travelling but i can receive SMS normally. I just can not send a SMS

[bristolian]

If you did not activate a new PAYG SIM in the UK, then you are lucky to be able to receive SMS on foreign networks.

Inability to use SMS would certainly be expected behaviour.

[unbaby]

Even if i go back to the UK with the same SIM and travel again i still cannot send anything?

[bristolian · Accepted solution]

Using your PAYG SIM in the UK activates it, and enables roaming for full use abroad.

I would not expect an un-activated PAYG SIM to get coverage abroad - with consequences for calls, texts & data that are explained above. There may be a quirk in your specific country or local network allowing receipt of SMS, but this should be considered just that - a lucky quirk.

The resolution is to activate the SIM on EE's UK network to complete activation. That activation enables full roaming and thus access to foreign networks. That network access enables call, text & data usage as required.