Keeping my number while abroad + saving money

[KC07]

I'm planning to stay in Asia for 2-3 months from June. I would like to keep my UK phone number while abroad so that I can receive urgent text messages, but don't want to spend much money on something I won't need (e.g. data). What is the chepeast option (either monthly or pay as you go) I can go with in this case? My contract with O2 ended last year, so I'm just going month to month with a plan that comes with unlimited UK calls and texts and 6 GB of data.

[jonsie]

When I'm in Asia I use a dual sim phone, one sim is my O2 sim and the other is a local sim whichever country I'm in.

I carry on my monthly contract and switch off mobile data on that sim

If you want to change to P&G you need to call customer service.

That might be the better option for you in order to keep your number.

If You need to call O2 then choose any of the options, fraud etc
Everything is taking longer due to the lockdown. Call centres and social distancing means limited staff to handle all the queries. Patience needed I'm afraid.
https://community.o2.co.uk/t5/Other-Products-and-Services/Coronavirus-Covid-19-Community-Help-and-Su...
The best number to get through seems to be
0800 587 4005

[MI5 · Accepted solution]

You can switch to unlimited calls, texts and 1 GB of data for £9.00 currently.
Turn your data off to avoid hefty roaming bills though.