Receiving SMS with a Mobile Softphone While Overseas

Many travelers need to stay connected to their Australian phone number while overseas, particularly for receiving SMS messages like verification codes, important notifications, and business communications. This guide explains how you can receive SMS messages on your mobile softphone while traveling internationally.

Important Clarification: This information applies specifically to Crazytel's Virtual Mobile Numbers only, not physical mobile plans with SIM cards. Virtual mobile numbers operate differently from traditional mobile service and offer unique capabilities for international travelers.

The Short Answer: Yes, You Can!

Yes, you can receive SMS messages on your mobile softphone while overseas using Crazytel's Virtual Mobile Number service. This allows you to maintain communication without incurring international roaming charges or needing to swap SIM cards.

How It Works

Virtual Mobile Numbers Explained

Virtual Mobile Numbers are mobile phone numbers that are not attached to any specific SIM card or physical device. Unlike physical mobile plans that require a SIM card in your device, Virtual Mobile Numbers exist within Crazytel's network and can be accessed through various methods, including the Crazytel Softphone App.

Key features that enable overseas SMS reception:

SMS to Email: All SMS messages sent to your Virtual Mobile Number can be automatically forwarded to your email address for free

Softphone App Access: View and manage SMS through the Crazytel Softphone App from anywhere with internet access

Two-Way Messaging: Not only receive but also send SMS messages through the Crazytel portal at 5¢ per SMS

Benefits for International Travelers

Using a Virtual Mobile Number with the Crazytel Softphone App while overseas provides several advantages:

Avoid International Roaming Charges: No need to pay expensive international SMS rates

Maintain Your Australian Number: Keep your Australian presence even while abroad

Receive Verification Codes: Access important verification SMS for banking, social media, and other services

Business Continuity: Stay connected to clients and colleagues without interruption

Data-Only Connection: Only requires an internet connection (Wi-Fi or local data plan)

Setting Up for International Travel

Before traveling overseas:

Purchase a Virtual Mobile Number: Sign up through Crazytel for $7.95 per month

Download the Crazytel Softphone App: Available for iOS, Android, and desktop devices

Configure SMS to Email: Ensure this feature is enabled in your account settings

Test Before Departure: Send a test SMS to your number and confirm reception

Technical Requirements

To receive SMS while overseas, you'll need:

An active Crazytel Virtual Mobile Number ($7.95/month)

The Crazytel Softphone App installed on your device

Internet connection (Wi-Fi or local data plan)

Your Crazytel account login credentials

Additional Features

Your Virtual Mobile Number includes several other features useful for travelers:

Voicemail to Email: Receive voicemail messages in your email inbox

Call Forwarding: Forward calls to local numbers at your destination if needed

Auto Attendants: Set up automated responses for callers while you're away

Ring Groups: Share incoming communications with team members back home

For Regular Physical Mobile Plans

Please note that if you have a regular Crazytel physical mobile plan with a SIM card, different international roaming rules apply.