international travel plans for verizon

• Shop all deals
• Free phones
• Smartphones
• Fios Home Internet
• Bring your own device
• Accessories
• Refer a Friend
• Verizon Visa® Card
• Certified pre-owned phones
• Apple iPhone 15 Pro
• Apple iPhone 15
• Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra
• Google Pixel 8 Pro
• Other phones
• Trade in your device
• Tablets & laptops
• Certified pre-owned watches
• Jetpacks & hotspots
• Shop all accessories
• Phone cases
• Screen protectors
• Tablet accessories
• Chargers & cables
• Phone attachments
• MagSafe compatible
• Verizon accessories
• Shop all watch accessories
• Smart watches
• Shop all plans
• International services
• Connected devices
• Discounts overview
• Mobile + Home
• First responders
• Verizon Forward
• Connected car plans
• Shop all home solutions
• 5G Home Internet
• LTE Home Internet
• Accessories overview
• Cables & connectors
• Networking & Wi-Fi
• TV accessories
• Phone equipment
• 5G Home accessories
• Prepaid overview
• Phone plans
• International plans
• Basic phones
• Mobile hotspots & routers
• Why Verizon Prepaid
• Disney+, Hulu, ESPN+
• Apple Arcade
• Google Play Pass
• Apple Music
• Xbox All Access
• Services & perks overview
• Entertainment
• Protection & security
• Digital family
• Financial services
• Back to Menu
• Sign in to My Account
• Prepaid instant pay
• Business Log in

Choose your cart:

• Mobile solutions
• Home solutions

Layer_4 Created with Sketch.

Page contents

International travel faqs.

Planning a trip outside the US? Learn about calling, texting and data plans for your device when you're abroad. Or visit our Trip Planner to get your travel use and international plan answers in 1 place.

Before you travel

While you're abroad, when you return home, can i use my device while traveling outside the us.

Most smartphones and some tablets can be used when you travel abroad. Use our Trip Planner to find out if your device will work for your trip.

international-travel,monthly-plan

How do I get my device ready to use outside the US?

Before you use your device while traveling, make sure your device's roaming is turned on. Roaming must be on so your device can connect to cellular networks in your destination country. For instructions to turn roaming on and off:

• Visit Let's Troubleshoot Your Devices   to learn how to adjust your roaming settings.
• Enter your device in the search field under Filter (e.g., "Samsung" or "S23", etc.) and choose your device.
• Select Troubleshoot under the device's name on the device tile.
• In the Search Another Issue field, type "Turn data roaming on or off." Follow the instructions for your device.

international-travel,monthly-plan,pay-as-you-go,cruise-and-inflight

How will I be charged for using my device when I travel abroad?

How you're charged depends on whether or not you add an international plan to your account for your trip. Our international plans let you use your phone in more than 210 countries and destinations outside the US:

• $5/day in Canada and Mexico* (You won't be charged if your domestic phone plan already includes calls, texts and dat in Canada and Mexico).
• $10/day in other countries.
• $100 International Monthly Plan : Ideal for trips of 10 days or more. Get unlimited data* and texts and 250 minutes for international use.* 20 GB of high speed data and unlimited data at 3G speeds thereafter. You can choose to have the allowance expire after 1 month or have the plan renew every month until you remove it from your account.
• In-flight Daily Pass and Cruise Daily Pass : Keep your phone connected to cellular data on an international flight and on board a cruise ship. In-flight Daily Pass is $20/day per line. Cruise Daily Pass costs $30/day per line.

For coverage and pricing details, visit our International Travel page. Important:

• If you don't choose an international plan you'll pay per minute, per text and per MB of data used (called Pay as You Go) when you're abroad. Learn more on our International Travel page.
• Our Unlimited Ultimate mobile phone plan includes high-speed international data, talk & text. TT
• TravelPass and our Monthly International Plan can't be used in non-covered countries, on cruise ships or airplanes.

*If more than 50% of your talk, text or data usage in a 60-day period is in Canada or Mexico, use of those services in those countries may be removed or limited.

How do I add an international travel plan for my device?

Here's how to add TravelPass or a Monthly International Plan to your account:

• My Verizon website: On your International Plan page, go to Use our Trip Planner .
• Choose a line.
• In Additional Services, scroll to International Plans and then add new plan .
• Text: Add TravelPass anytime, anywhere by texting Travel to 4004 .

Note: We offer data plans for select flights and cruises. Where available, when you board, we'll send you a text to let you know you can add In-flight Daily Pass or Cruise Daily Pass .

Where can I find out if there's network coverage for my travel destination?

You can view our international coverage map to check coverage for your trip.

How do I call the US while traveling internationally?

To call the US from abroad, enter " + ", then the US country code " 1 " and the 10-digit phone number. Note: To enter " + ", press and hold " 0 " on your keypad until the " + " appears on your screen.

How can I use my mobile device while I'm on a cruise ship or airplane?

On select cruise ships you can make and receive calls and/or send and receive text messages. Calling and texting: You're charged Pay as You Go rates for calling and texting when on a cruise ship. Visit our Cruise Ship & Airplane Pricing page to view pricing. Using data is available only on select cruise ships and airplanes. Visit our In-flight Daily Pass and Cruise Pass FAQs to learn more.

Can I use Wi-Fi calling when I'm outside the US?

Yes. You can use Wi-Fi when calling back to the US from overseas for no additional cost. However, Wi-Fi calling to any country other than the US is charged at International Long Distance rates ("pay as you go" rates), no matter what international travel plan you have. When an international call is placed over Wi-Fi Calling, a voice prompt will interrupt the call to remind you that international charges may apply. You can choose to complete the call or hang up to avoid potential charges.

What happens if I'm traveling near the border of 2 countries?

When you're traveling, your device scans for the strongest signal. If you’re near a border, it's possible to pick up another country's network if that signal is stronger. If this happens, we send you a message to let you know the rates that apply for that country.

How do I access voicemail while traveling internationally?

To check your voicemail messages when outside of the US you can:

• Call your voicemail – Call your Verizon mobile number in International format ("+1" and then your 10-digit number). Interrupt the greeting by pressing # (pound key) and follow the prompts to navigate to the voice mailbox.
• Use a Visual Voice Mail app – Basic Visual Voicemail on Android and iPhone is free and included with your smartphone plan. Learn more on our Visual Voicemail FAQ page.

What are international travel data usage alerts?

You get an "international data spend notification" when your charges reach $250, $500, $1,000 and every $1,000 after that. Verizon Business accounts get notices when charges reach $500, $1,000 and every $1,000 after that. You can change your alert preferences in My Verizon website or in the My Verizon app.

Is there a limit to the amount of unbilled data I can use?

Yes, your international travel data is automatically blocked when you reach $500 in unbilled data usage. To remove this restriction, call +1 (908) 559-4899 while traveling outside the US.

How do I check my unbilled voice, text or data used while traveling outside of the US?

To check your unbilled international usage , go to the International Usage and Services page in My Verizon. Select your device. Your international travel usage is listed under My Usage .

If I have a technical problem while traveling, how do I get help?

Call the International Support Team to get help while traveling, +1-908-559-4899. If your device is lost, stolen or broken or you experience a device issue while you're traveling outside the US, reach our International Support Team from any landline phone:

• Enter your country's toll-free number .
• Enter your 10-digit mobile number when prompted by the International Travel Hotline.

If a toll-free number isn't available for the country you're in, call (908) 559-4899 (toll charges apply).

Do I need to remove my international plan when I get home?

No, you don't have to remove your international plan when you return home:

• TravelPass stays on your line. You won't be charged again until the next time you use your mobile device outside of the US.
• In-flight Daily Pass is automatically removed from your line when your 24-hour session ends.
• Cruise Daily Pass charges only apply when you use your device onboard a cruise ship. You can leave Cruise Daily Pass on your account so it's ready for your next cruise.

*This plan is no longer available to add to your account.

How long does it typically take for international travel charges to appear on my bill?

It could take up to 60 days for international travel charges to appear on your bill.

Why do I see international charges on my bill when I already paid for the International plan last month?

International charges you see on your Verizon bill after you've paid for a Monthly International Travel Plan are most likely additional usage charges. Usage charges mean that while you were traveling, you went over the plan's 1-month limit for talk, text or data usage.

Additional support

Verizon travelpass faqs, domestic roaming, visit verizon community, complete a transaction, my verizon - international, my verizon - manage plan, my verizon - change plan, shop verizon's deals, international phone plans, plan your international trip.

Android is a trademark of Google, Inc. Apple and iPhone are registered trademarks of Apple Inc.

• Home Internet & TV
• Mobile + Home discount
• Support overview
• Return policy
• Community Forums
• Business support
• Download My Verizon App
• Accessibility
• Check network status
• Responsibility
• Verizon Innovative Learning
• Consumer info
• 5G overview
• Innovation Labs
• Apple iPhone 15 Pro Max
• Apple iPhone 15 Plus
• Apple AirPods Max
• Apple Watch Series 9
• Elizabeth James
• Terms & Conditions
• Device Payment Terms & Conditions
• Report a security vulnerability
• Mobile customer agreement
• Announcements
• Radio frequency emissions
• Taxes & surcharges
• Legal notices
• facebook-official
• Privacy Policy
• California Privacy Notice
• Health Privacy Notice
• Open Internet
• Terms & Conditions
• About Our Ads

Best international phone plans in 2024 — what travelers need to know

Heading overseas? Find out what your cellphone provider charges if you use your phone

• T-Mobile phone plans
• Verizon phone plans
• AT&T phone plans
• Google Fi plans
• Other options
• Device compatibility and eSims
• 5G coverage when traveling

Before your summer travels overseas, you should look into whether you've got one of the best international phone plans for staying connected during your upcoming adventures. In the U.S., all the major wireless carriers offer some kind of travel benefit with their best cell phone plans , but they also have supplementary packages for travelers to augment the data plan you already have in place. The trick is to make sure those options keep you covered around the globe.

1. T-Mobile : Best choice for travelers 2. Verizon : TravelPass options 3. AT&T : Best for travel in Latin and Central America 4. Google Fi : An underrated traveling companion 5. Other options : Other international phone plans to consider

The best international phone plans will let you make calls and browse the web when you're in another country (though there might be a fee on top of your normal monthly rate, depending on which carrier you use). Different plans might cover different countries, and how long you plan on traveling could also impact your choice of plans. Your method of travel — be it by plane or cruise ship — also affects which plan is best for you.

All of these are things for globetrotters to consider when shopping for wireless coverage. You're going to want one of the best unlimited data plans since they tend to offer the most travel-related perks. If you haven't travelled internationally in a while, it's smart to double-check what options are out there since the best phone carriers have overhauled their plans and packages available to travelers.

Here’s a look at the travel policies and perks for the three top U.S carriers along with information on Google Fi, which offers a plan that definitely appeals to frequent travelers.

T-Mobile international phone plans

T-Mobile offers an expanded array of plans, though most of its unlimited data plan options have some benefits for overseas travel. Subscribe to Magenta, Magenta Max, Go5G, Go5G Plus or Go5G Next, and you enjoy unlimited data and texting in more than 215 countries around the world. If you want to place or receive calls, you’ll be subject to the local rate depending on where you want to go. You don’t need to notify T-Mobile of your travel for your overseas benefits to kick in.

T-Mobile Go5G Plus Plan | Unlimited Data | $90/month T-Mobile's Go5G Plus plan has the edge over Magenta Max for world travelers, even if the latter plan is $5 cheaper for a single line. That's because Go5G Plus customers get more data when traveling in Mexico and Canada (15GB vs. 10GB for Magenta Max) and 10GB more hotspot data. Otherwise, the two plans are identical: You can use your data in 215-plus countries at no extra cost. The first 5GB of data you use use will be high-speed data (with 5G speeds supported where available). The cheaper Go5G and Magenta plans ($75/month and $70/month, respectively) also feature travel benefits, including high-speed data in 11 European countries. Otherwise, data speeds are capped at 256 kbps.

Travel perks in current plans: As part of T-Mobile's Beyond Connected program, data speeds now reach 256 kbps when you're overseas. If you subscribe to either the standard Magenta or Go5G plans and you're in one of 11 European countries, you can enjoy 5GB of high-speed data every month, thanks to a partnership with T-Mobile parent Deutsche Telecom.

The perk gets better when you upgrade to either Magenta Max or Go5G Plus, both of which cost $15 more a month than their respective base plans. In that case, you can benefit from 5GB of high-speed data in 215 countries.

Go5G Next, T-Mobile's most expensive plan at $100/month for a single line, has the same travel benefits as Go5G Plus, but adds the ability to upgrade your phone every year. If that's not important to you, stick with Go5G Plus and pay $10 less each month on your wireless bill.

T-Mobile customers can take advantage of free Wi-Fi on American, Delta, Alaska Airlines and United flights. Magenta Max and Go5G Plus subscribers get full texting and Wi-Fi with streaming during flights, where wireless is available. If you go with the standard Magenta or Go5G option, you're covered on four flights per year with full streaming, plus unlimited texting; after those four flights, you can stream one hour of video. Delta SkyMiles members also get free Wi-Fi on domestic U.S. flights courtesy of T-Mobile — even if they get their wireless service from another carrier.

In Mexico and Canada, T-Mobile allows you to use up to 5GB of data whether you've got Magenta or Magenta Max; speeds are slowed to 2G after that. Go5G customers get 10GB of data in those two countries, while Go5G Plus members enjoy 15GB.

T-Mobile includes travel benefits in two of its remaining senior plans, with identical travel perks between the $100 Go5G Plus 55 option and the $120 Go5G Next 55 plan. (Note that those monthly prices cover two lines of data; one line of either Plus or Next cost $70 and $80, respectively.) Travel perks include high-speed data and text when you travel abroad, plus unlimited in-flight connectivity. When you travel to Canada or Mexico, you get 15GB of high-speed data. Both plans also include a year's membership to AAA for road travel in the U.S.

If you opt for T-Mobile's lower cost Essentials unlimited plan, you'll get 2G roaming in Canada and Mexico, but have to pay for data elsewhere.

Trip-specific passes: T-Mobile offers International Pass options for travelers who want high-speed data during lengthier stays overseas. A 5GB International Pass gives you that much high-speed data along with unlimited calling for 10 days. It costs $35. T-Mobile's $50 International Pass increases high-speed data to 15GB and extends the length of the pass to 30 days. The carrier also offers a $5 daily pass that gives you 512MB of high-speed data, and unlimited calling between the 215 or so Simple Global destinations. 

Cruise rates: Pricing on cruises will vary according to which cruise you’re taking. You can check T-Mobile’s site to see what your pricing will be.

Verizon international phone plans

Verizon phones generally work all over the world, especially if you've got a phone built in the last few years. But where you travel significantly influences how much you’ll have to pay. As for which is the best Verizon phone plan for travelers, that all depends on how frequently you go overseas. There's a clear choice for regular globetrotters, but Verizon's less expensive offerings allow you to tack on travel benefits, too.

Verizon Unlimited Ultimate | Unlimited Data | $90/month Verizon's Unlimited Ultimate plan offers the most benefits for world travelers. Verizon promises "full international connectivity," meaning you'll be able to use talk and text for free when overseas; you also get 10GB of high-speed data every month that you can use in other countries. Unlimited Ultimate is Verizon's most expensive plan, so unless you take frequent trips, you may be better served by Unlimited Plus ($80/month for one line) or Unlimited Welcome ($65/month). Those two plans can add on a $10/month Travel Pass options that provides three days of talk, text and data when you're overseas. You can drop the Travel Pass add-on from your plan in months were you don't need it. Verizon lets family plans mix and match lines so one person can get Unlimited Ultimate, while the others subscribe to the cheaper options.

Travel perks in current plans: Of Verizon's three unlimited plans, the best for frequent travelers is the Unlimited Ultimate option, which lets you use talk and text in other countries just like you would in the U.S. You also get 10GB of high-speed data to use overseas every month.

Unfortunately, Unlimited Ultimate is Verizon's most expensive plan, costing $90 a month for one line. (And that's after a discount for enrolling autopay.) There are cheaper options — Unlimited Welcome and Unlimited Plus — that include travel perks. Both plans let you text internationally to 200-plus countries. You can also use LTE data when traveling in Mexico and Canada. You're limited to 0.5GB of data consumption per day in those two countries before your speeds are slowed to 2G, and you can't use more than half of your talk, text and data in those countries over a 60-day period.

In addition to the base Welcome Unlimited and Unlimited Plus packages, you can opt for $10 monthly add-ons for your Verizon plan — some covering streaming services, another providing hotspot data and so on. The relevant package is Verizon's $10/month 3 TravelPass Days add-on, which saves you $20 a month on travel benefits as you pick up three passes during monthly billing cycles. You can accrue up to 36 passes for using talk, text and data when traveling overseas.

Unlimited Welcome starts at $65/month for one line, while Unlimited Plus is $80. If you have a family plan, you can mix and match so that different lines of data subscribe to different plans — helpful if there's one person in the family who travels a lot and would benefit from the Unlimited Ultimate perks.

Trip-specific passes: Let's talk a little bit more about the TravelPass . It's Verizon's daily option for international coverage, and it’ll cost you $5 per day per device for each day you’re out of the country if you travel to Mexico or Canada and don't have an unlimited plan. In 185 other countries — including China, France and Germany — Verizon charges $10 per device per day. TravelPass gets you 2GB of 5G data, and unlimited data at 3G speeds after that; the passes also come with unlimited talk and text.

If you know you’ll be traveling for a bit more time, consider Verizon’s monthly option, which the carrier recommends for trips lasting at least 10 days. International Monthly Plans at Verizon cost $100/month, but in exchange, you get 250 minutes of talk, unlimited texts and 20GB of high-speed data. (Use that, and you get unlimited data at 3G speeds.)

Verizon also offers pay-as-you-go pricing for international travel. You’ll pay 99 cents per minute in Canada and Mexico, Guam and the Northern Marianas Islands. Rates go up to $1.79 in 130-plus countries and $2.99 in 80 other places. Each text message you send will cost you 50 cents, and each received text will set you back 5 cents. Your data will be charged at a rate of $2.05 per megabyte no matter where you are.

Cruise rates: Pay-as-you go rates on cruise ships cost $1.99 for each minute of talk and 50 cents for every sent text message. You’ll pay 5 cents per message received. Verizon has a data plan for cruise passengers, too, with $30/day giving you 500MB of data plus unlimited texting and 50 minutes of talk time. For in-flight connectivity, you can opt for the same pay-as-you-go rates for cruise trips or you can pay $20 per day for unlimited data.

AT&T international phone plans

AT&T also comes with varied international pricing depending on where you want to go. Canada and Mexico travel is covered in many top AT&T plans, and if you pay up for the Unlimited Premium option, you can use your plan in many Central and South American countries. Traveling elsewhere? Then you had best look into AT&T's travel passes.

AT&T Unlimited Premium| Unlimited Data | $85.99/month It's AT&T's most expensive unlimited plan, but Unlimited Premium has the best perk for travelers — you can use your talk, text and data at no extra cost in 20 Latin American countries.  As with other AT&T unlimited options, you also enjoy talk, text and data coverage when traveling in Canada and Mexico.

Travel perks in current plans: If you’re heading to Mexico or Canada, AT&T already covers all of your voice, data and text with its four different unlimited plans — Starter, Extra, Premium and the entry-level Value Plus option. AT&T offers a lone tiered data plan with 4GB of data that you can use in Canada and Mexico (though roaming may be at 2G speeds). Both unlimited and tiered data plans feature unlimited texting to 120-plus countries.

The Unlimited Premium plan is the best option for travelers headed to the Americas, as you'll be able to enjoy unlimited text, talk and data at no additional cost in 20 Central and South American countries. 

If you do a lot of international calling from home, AT&T offers unlimited calling to 85-plus countries from the U.S. for $15 per month for each line. Calls to another 140-plus countries get discounted rates under this plan.

Trip-specific passes: For anyone off to Europe, the Caribbean, Latin America or the Asia Pacific region on a short jaunt, AT&T recommends its $10-a-day International Day Pass, which comes with unlimited talk and text and data governed by your plan. (Note that each device you take overseas will need its own Day Pass.) That service is available in 210-plus countries, and you can add extra phones for just $5 a day.

You'll never have to pay for more than 10 days of day passes on any one bill, even if your trip lasts longer. International Day Passes also kick in automatically when you use your phone abroad — you get a text message letting you know you're covered.

Cruise rates: On cruises , AT&T offers a $60/month Cruise Basic plan that covers 100 minutes of talk and unlimited texting while also offering 100MB of data. Need more of everything? Then try the Cruise Plus plan ($100/month), which includes 1GB of data on top of unlimited talk and text. 

Google Fi international phone plans

If you do a lot of international traveling, don't ignore Google Fi Wireless , the wireless service set up by Google that uses cellular towers of T-Mobile and US Cellular to provide coverage. International travel is built into two of Google Fi's plans — the Unlimited Plus and Flexible options.

Google Unlimited Plus| Unlimited Data | $65/month The Unlimited Plus plan is the way to go with Google Fi, as you can use your data at no extra cost when traveling overseas. Google Fi customers who pay by the gigabyte of data used are also eligible for this perk.

Travel perks in current plans: You've got two options with Google Fi — tiered data through the company's Flexible plan or a pair of unlimited data options. Flexible coverage costs $20 a month for talk and text plus $10 for each GB of data you use. (Data usage is rounded off to the nearest megabyte so you only pay for the data you consume.) Google stops charging you after you use 6GB a month, meaning you'll never pay more than $80. 

If you find unlimited data plans more appealing, Google has you covered there, too — it also offers a $65 Unlimited Plus option that rolls in unlimited talk, text and data. Unlimited Plus subscribers now get a year of YouTube Premium as a perk. 

The real benefit to either Unlimited Plus or Flexible is that those plans cover you when you're traveling in 200-plus countries. When you're overseas, Google Fi charges the same rate for data usage, whether you're on an unlimited data plan or paying by the gigabyte. Voice calls cost 20 cents (though calls placed over Wi-Fi are free) and you get unlimited SMS messaging. 

Alas, Google's $50/month Simply Unlimited plan is not eligible for the free data perk when traveling. That said, all three of Google Fi's plans let you use talk, text and data in Mexico and Canada.

Google Fi is even more appealing now that Google has opened up service to all phones, including iPhones. Note that phones optimized for Google Fi — Google's Pixel phones (currently the Pixel 8 , Pixel 8 Pro , Pixel Fold and Pixel 7a )  along with a selection of Samsung phones and Motorola budget devices — can switch seamlessly between cellular networks and Google's Wi-Fi hotspots, while other phones cannot.

Trip-specific passes: Unlike the other carriers here, Google Fi doesn't offer travel passes for extended trips. Your only option is to get coverage through the Flexible and Unlimited Plus plans.

Cruise rates: Google Fi is not available when you're at sea — only when you're on land in one of the 200-plus countries covered by the carrier.

Other international phone plan options

Discount carriers typically don't provide much in the way of benefits for travelers, but there are some exceptions. The most noteworthy alternative is Visible , which has expanded the travel perks for subscribers to its $45/month Visible Plus plan .

Visible is owned by Verizon and uses its parent company's network for coverage. The Visible Plus plan features unlimited data, including access to Verizon's high-speed 5G network. Travelers will be particularly interested in the unlimited talk, text and 2GB of daily data available through Visible Plus when traveling in Canada and Mexico. Visible Plus customers are also eligible for one free Global Pass day per month, in which they can use talk, text and data at no charge in 140 countries. Globla Passes normally cost $10.

Best international phone plan: Device compatibility and eSims

Traveling overseas used to mean checking to see if your phone would be compatible once you set foot in another country. But those days are drawing to a close now that 3G networks are shutting down, eliminating much of the distinction between phones that work on either GSM and CDMA. If you've got a recent smartphone that connects to LTE, chances are strong it's going to work just fine in other countries. (You still might want to confirm that your phone works on the LTE bands available in the country you're heading to prior to your trip, just to avoid any unpleasant surprises.)

Many phones now support electronic SIM cards or eSIM technology, where you no longer need to swap in a local SIM card to make your smartphone work with an overseas network. (Since the iPhone 14 , Apple devices sold in the U.S. only feature eSIM support — that includes the newer iPhone 15 models.) One of our editors took an international trip using an eSIM for her phone and found it easy to setup and use with a local network — in fact, she plans to use the eSIM approach on all future travel. 

That said, not every country supports eSIM. And depending on your phone carrier in the U.S., you might already have options that cover your phone use in other countries.

International phone plans: What about 5G?

As noted above, many of the plans that offer international travel either have you connect at whatever speed is available locally or at a reduced speed in cases where you're drawing from your own data plan. But what if you've got a 5G phone that can connect to faster networks overseas?

For the most part, we'd expect your phone to operate as before, either at whatever speed the local network offers or a capped speed if that's part of your carrier's travel plans. However, in a few instances, U.S. phone carriers have started making deals with overseas wireless providers that allow their customers to access 5G speeds when roaming. You should check with your carrier for information about the country you're going to travel in.

Sign up to get the BEST of Tom’s Guide direct to your inbox.

Upgrade your life with a daily dose of the biggest tech news, lifestyle hacks and our curated analysis. Be the first to know about cutting-edge gadgets and the hottest deals.

Philip Michaels is a Managing Editor at Tom's Guide. He's been covering personal technology since 1999 and was in the building when Steve Jobs showed off the iPhone for the first time. He's been evaluating smartphones since that first iPhone debuted in 2007, and he's been following phone carriers and smartphone plans since 2015. He has strong opinions about Apple, the Oakland Athletics, old movies and proper butchery techniques. Follow him at @PhilipMichaels.

• Don Reisinger

Metro by T-Mobile launches Metro Flex to reward customers that stick around

You can buy a year's worth of cell phone service in advance — but should you?

Microsoft now says your PC is in need of ‘repair’ if you’re not using Bing with Edge

Most Popular

• 2 Epic Reebok sale at Amazon — 11 deals I'd buy now
• 3 LG’s $100,000 rollable OLED R TV is officially dead — and for good reason
• 4 Future Games Show returns this summer with over 40 games — everything you need to know
• 5 New HBO video gives a behind-the-scenes peek at 'House of the Dragon' season 2
• 2 Samsung slams Apple iPad ad: ‘Creativity cannot be crushed’
• 3 Epic Reebok sale at Amazon — 11 deals I'd buy now
• 4 LG’s $100,000 rollable OLED R TV is officially dead — and for good reason
• 5 Future Games Show returns this summer with over 40 games — everything you need to know

What’s the best international phone plan right now?

On my first trip to Japan, I decided to forgo international data on my cellphone. I figured I could rely on public Wi-Fi, but I regretted not having data on my phone when I became lost. From that experience, I learned to download offline maps and a translation app beforehand if I know I won't have data.

But now, I almost always have data when I travel via my international phone plan, or through a physical SIM I buy at my destination or an eSIM I purchase online.

There are many reasons why you may want to remain connected while abroad. In this guide, I'll compare the best international phone plans. Note that many plans function differently in Canada and Mexico from other international locations. This guide focuses on the best phone plans for U.S. residents who travel outside North America.

First things first: You might not need an international phone plan. If you primarily need data, using a different SIM on your trip may be the simplest and cheapest solution. Some apps even support text and voice communication over data connections.

If your device supports eSIM, you may be able to purchase a data plan for your destination through an app like Airalo . Over the past year, I've purchased and used the following Airalo eSIMs either to gain data in a destination not served by my primary international phone plan (Google Fi) or to get less-expensive data than what Google Fi provides:

• Global (84 countries) : 20 GB over 180 days for $89
• Japan : 20 GB over 30 days for $26
• France : 20 GB over 30 days for $36
• Fiji : Three GB over 30 days for $19.50
• U.S. : One GB over seven days for $4.50

If your device doesn't support eSIM, you could still purchase a local SIM card at your destination. For example, I bought a monthlong SIM card with unlimited high-speed data in Vietnam for less than $10. But data is significantly more expensive in some destinations, and it can be difficult to determine exactly what you're getting when you purchase a physical SIM card. As such, I've mostly stuck with a physical Google Fi SIM card and Airalo eSIMs instead of using local SIM cards.

If you plan to use eSIM or a local SIM card, you should ensure your phone is unlocked. A locked phone won't be able to accept any other SIM cards until it is unlocked.

Related: How TPG's Zach Griff avoids the pesky $10 daily roaming charges when traveling

• Cost for one line : $20 (plus taxes and fees) per month plus data usage costs for the Flexible plan or $65 (plus taxes and fees) per month for the Unlimited Plus plan
• Data abroad : $10 per GB (with free data after six GBs per month but slower speeds after 15 GBs in a month) in more than 200 destinations for the Flexible plan or free (but with slower speeds after 50 GBs in a month) in more than 200 destinations for the Unlimited Plus plan
• Voice abroad : 20 cents per minute from more than 200 destinations (and calls via Wi-Fi to the U.S., Canada and Mexico are free)
• Text abroad : Free from more than 200 destinations

I've used Google Fi as my primary cellphone plan for most of the past six years. I've had a few connectivity issues in the U.S. — where Google Fi currently uses the T-Mobile network — including in Tampa, Austin and New York City. However, I keep Google Fi primarily because I usually get high-speed data as soon as I turn airplane mode off, and I can seamlessly receive calls and texts on my U.S. number while traveling internationally.

You might be tempted to only use Google Fi when traveling outside the U.S., but doing so isn't a good idea. After all, the Google Fi terms of service state:

The services are offered only to residents of the United States. The Services must be primarily used in the United States (territories not included) and are not intended for extended international use. Further, the services are designed for use predominantly within our network. If your usage outside our network is excessive, abnormally high, or causes us to incur too much cost, we may, at our option and sole discretion, suspend your Google Fi account, terminate your service, or limit your use of roaming.

Google Fi has shut down some U.S. residents who used Google Fi primarily outside the U.S. So, I recommend avoiding extended international use and using Google Fi more in the U.S. than abroad if you don't want to get shut down. I buy eSIMs to decrease my Google Fi usage in some destinations, especially when I can purchase a package through Airalo for significantly less than $10 per GB (the amount I pay Google Fi for data on my Flexible plan).

Google Fi is the best international phone plan for U.S.-based travelers who want fast data without hassle while traveling abroad. Plans become slightly cheaper as you add more members. In my travels with Google Fi since 2016, I've only failed to get any service in three locations: parts of Alaska, the all-inclusive resort I lived out of for a month in the Dominican Republic and Liberia .

Related: Can you use your cellphone on a cruise?

• Cost for one line : $60 per month for the Essentials plan, $70 per month for the Magenta plan, $75 per month for the Go5G plan, $85 per month for the Magenta Max plan and $90 per month for the Go 5G Plus plan
• Data abroad : Free for up to five GB of high-speed data (in 11 European countries for the Magenta and Go5G plans, and in more than 215 countries and destinations for the Magenta Max and Go5G Plus plans) and then free for up to 256 kilobits per second in more than 215 countries and destinations for Magenta, Go5G, Magenta Max and Go5G Plus plans (no data outside North America is included in the Essentials plan)
• Voice abroad : 25 cents per minute from more than 215 countries and destinations for the Essentials, Magenta, Go5G, Magenta Max and Go5G Plus plans
• Text abroad : Free from more than 215 countries and destinations for the Essentials, Magenta, Go5G, Magenta Max and Go5G Plus plans

Before using Google Fi in 2016, I relied on T-Mobile when traveling internationally until I grew tired of slow data speeds. However, the plans have improved, and many travelers swear by T-Mobile as their international phone and data plan . T-Mobile customers can avoid slow data by purchasing international passes to add to their existing plan as follows:

• International 1-day pass : 512 MB of high-speed data and unlimited calling for 24 hours for $5
• Five-GB international pass : Five GB of high-speed data and unlimited calling for 10 days for $35
• 15-GB international pass : 15 GB of high-speed data and unlimited calling for 30 days for $50

Long-term and frequent international travelers should note that T-Mobile says the following about its plans:

Not for extended international use; you must reside in the US and primary usage must occur on our network. Device must register on our network before international use. Service may be terminated or restricted for excessive roaming.

Additionally, T-Mobile's terms and conditions state you are not permitted to use T-Mobile services if it "results in more than 50% of your voice and/or data usage being Off-Net (i.e., connected to another provider's network) for any 2 billing cycles within any 12-month period." There have been instances of T-Mobile shutting down travelers for roaming excessively . So, don't go with T-Mobile if your primary usage won't be domestically on T-Mobile's network.

Related: 6 reasons why Apple's entry-level iPhone 14s are great for travelers

Other international phone plans to consider

Finally, you may want to check your current provider's options if you only occasionally travel internationally. Here are some options that are available as optional add-ons for many AT&T and Verizon plans:

• AT&T international day pass : Pay an extra $10 per 24 hours for unlimited high-speed data, talk and text in more than 210 destinations. You'll only be charged for days (as determined by your local U.S. time zone) you use data, make or receive a call or send a text message while in a destination covered by the international day pass.
• Verizon TravelPass : Pay an extra $10 per day per line for unlimited calls, texts and data (data speeds decrease after two GBs in a day) in more than 210 countries. You'll only be charged for days you send or receive a call, send texts or use data while abroad.
• Verizon international monthly plan : Pay an extra $100 per month for 250 minutes of talk, unlimited texts and unlimited data (data speeds decrease after 20 GBs in a month) in more than 210 countries.

You could also check out U.S. Mobile's plans. U.S. Mobile plans don't include calling or texting from outside the U.S. Still, the Unlimited Premium plan offers up to 10 GB of international data, and most plans let you buy eSIMs for more than 100 countries from within the U.S. Mobile app.

Mint Mobile could also be a viable solution if you're on a budget and don't travel abroad frequently. Although Mint Mobile doesn't offer any international data, text or voice on its plans, you can purchase international roaming credits and then use them to text, talk and use data in more than 210 countries and destinations. Rates for talk, text and data vary based on the country you're visiting; they usually cost about 25 cents per minute for talk, 5 cents per text and 20 cents per MB of data. If you don't plan to use much data — after all, you'd be paying a massive $205 per GB in many countries — Mint Mobile could be a feasible option.

Most cellphone plans allow you to pay as you go for international use, but these rates are almost always excessive. As such, frequent international travelers should find a different solution because pay-as-you-go costs will add up quickly.

Related: Credit cards that cover cellphone loss and damage

Bottom line

Having a functioning international phone plan when traveling abroad is important for travelers who want to stay connected. Traveling as a digital nomad , I've found Google Fi is by far my best option for fast data, modestly priced calling and free texting in most destinations. However, I supplement my Google Fi plan with eSIMs in some destinations to gain access to less-expensive data.

If you already have T-Mobile or a plan that offers international add-ons, you may want to stick with your plan. Otherwise, it's worth considering an eSIM or a local SIM card. You can buy eSIMs ahead of your trip, and it's usually possible to pick up local SIM cards at the airport when you land in a new country.

• Credit cards
• View all credit cards
• Banking guide
• Loans guide
• Insurance guide
• Personal finance
• View all personal finance
• Small business
• Small business guide
• View all taxes

You’re our first priority. Every time.

We believe everyone should be able to make financial decisions with confidence. And while our site doesn’t feature every company or financial product available on the market, we’re proud that the guidance we offer, the information we provide and the tools we create are objective, independent, straightforward — and free.

So how do we make money? Our partners compensate us. This may influence which products we review and write about (and where those products appear on the site), but it in no way affects our recommendations or advice, which are grounded in thousands of hours of research. Our partners cannot pay us to guarantee favorable reviews of their products or services. Here is a list of our partners .

5 of the Best International Cell Phone Plans 2024

Many or all of the products featured here are from our partners who compensate us. This influences which products we write about and where and how the product appears on a page. However, this does not influence our evaluations. Our opinions are our own. Here is a list of our partners and here's how we make money .

You come home from vacation. You’re relaxed. You’re refreshed. Then you check your cell phone bill and find that you owe $800.

International roaming rates are nothing to mess around with, so it’s important to know what you’re on the hook for before you travel abroad. We surveyed the mobile landscape to find carriers and plans that are friendly to out-of-country travelers.

Some choices below are add-ons to an existing plan, paid either daily or monthly when needed, while others are monthly service plans that include good international access in their features.

International roaming plans: postpaid

Plan: International Day Pass.

Price: $10 per day for first line, $5 for additional lines used in the same 24-hour period, on top of your regular phone plan cost. Requires an AT&T unlimited, AT&T 4 GB, or Mobile Share plan.

At a glance: Calls from and between the U.S. and included countries are free.

Things to know: Once you have signed up, it activates automatically when you travel.

Plan: Go5G.

Price: $80 per month, $5 autopay discount available.

At a glance: Talk is at a flat 25 cents per minute in more than 215 countries. Unlimited texting and up to 5GB of high-speed data in Canada and Mexico. Unlimited data at 256Kbps speeds in more than 215 other countries.

Things to know: Price includes taxes and fees, but add-ons such as insurance or device payments are still assessed. You can upgrade to Go5G Plus for $15 per month, per line to get extra features, including 4K video streaming, 50GB of mobile hot spot data, faster data speeds in more than 215 countries and unlimited in-flight Wi-Fi on some flights.

Plan: International Monthly Plan.

Price: $100 per line per month.

At a glance: The plan includes unlimited data plus 250 minutes of talk and unlimited texts. It can be used in more than 210 countries.

Things to know: If you don’t opt in to the international plan, then you will be charged “pay as you go” rates when you travel overseas. Looking for options? Verizon also offers a cruise-specific plan for $20 a month or the Travel Pass for $10 per day, which comes with unlimited calls, texts and data.

» Learn more: What to know about electronics insurance

International roaming: prepaid

Google fi wireless.

Plan: Flexible.

Price: $20 per month, plus $10 per GB of data. Taxes and fees are extra.

At a glance: Unlimited talk and text in the U.S., Canada and Mexico. Unlimited texting while abroad. High-speed data is a flat $10 per gigabyte, even when roaming internationally, but speeds are slower after 15GB of use.

Things to know: Texts and data in more than 200 countries for the same price you pay at home. Calls are an additional cost. The Flexible plan includes bill protection, where usage is free after you hit a certain monthly threshold — 6GB for one line, 10GB for two lines, 12GB for three lines, 14GB for four lines and 16GB for five lines. Google Fi uses the T-Mobile network and does not slow down speeds even when the network is busy.

Plan: International Connect and eSIM.

Price: For $10 additional per month on any Boost plan, International Connect adds calling to more than 120 countries and texting to more than 200. It requires using an eSIM card on an unlocked phone; once you have an eSIM you can add data for as low as $5 for 1GB over a seven-day timeframe. Use Boost’s country list to identify specific costs for data packages.

At a glance: An eSIM is a digital SIM card that allows you to activate roaming services without needing a physical SIM card. A Dual SIM option supports two numbers at the same time, such as separate numbers for personal and business use.

Things to know: ESIM cards only provide access to data; you will not be able to call or text unless you add International Connect or use internet-based apps or services like Skype or FaceTime.

METHODOLOGY

We surveyed major international roaming cell phone plans, checking the price of the international roaming option, data costs, and the price of international calls and texts.

Verizon Wireless

• Search Please fill out this field.
• Manage Your Subscription
• Give a Gift Subscription
• Newsletters
• Sweepstakes

We independently evaluate all of our recommendations. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation.

• Travel Tips

The Best International Phone and Data Plans: Everything You Need to Know to Use Your Cell Phone Abroad

Compare plans from AT&T, Verizon, T-Mobile, and Sprint.

Having a working cell phone while traveling internationally can make a world of difference. Think of how often you use your GPS (Which way to the metro station?) , internet browser (What time does the museum close?) , messaging apps (Hey, are we still meeting at the restaurant later?) , and mobile apps (I'll grab an Uber to meet you!) — just in a single afternoon. You'll probably want data on your next trip abroad, and perhaps a lot of it.

Alas, roaming rates can be extremely expensive. Even if you don't call or text while abroad, background updates to apps can run up unexpected roaming fees. Here's how to avoid those hidden charges, plus everything else you need to know about international plans offered by major phone carriers.

Overview of International Phone Plans

Perhaps the easiest option for continuing to use your phone while abroad is to purchase an international plan through your current carrier. This can work out to be the most cost-effective choice, but it isn't always. International roaming plans are typically best if you use your phone sparingly while abroad. The longer you travel, the higher the bill in many cases.

Before we delve into the specifics of each plan, here are some important things to note:

• With most plans — at least the ones mentioned here — you will be charged only once you begin using your phone internationally. However, if you have cellular data turned on (i.e., you're not in airplane mode), these international plans may be activated by background data from apps refreshing, email syncing, and device or software updates.
• Add these international plans to each device you'll use them on before your trip.
• Once you start using your phone in your destination, you should receive a text that the international plan is active.
• Billing varies by carrier and plan; you could be billed immediately after you begin using data abroad or after an entire billing cycle passes. However, you wouldn't normally be charged more often than once per 24 hours, even if you travel to multiple countries in a day.

AT&T International Plan

AT&T is the third largest mobile phone service provider in the U.S. If you have AT&T, here are your options:

Pay per day: Add the International Day Pass to your current plan for $10 per day, per device, to call, text, and use data as you would at home in more than 200 destinations. Your data allowance and talk minutes will be the same as your current plan, but you'll get unlimited texts to any numbers in the world. Calls must be made to the U.S. or another country on the IDP list. You can only use the day pass for 10 days per monthly billing cycle.

For longer trips: Although AT&T used to offer Passport plans that would allow account holders to pay monthly for data, talk, and texting abroad, the plans were discontinued (for individual consumers only, not for businesses) in 2021. Now, the International Day Pass is your only AT&T option outside of North America.

Traveling to Canada or Mexico: All unlimited and some limited plans will get you unlimited talk and text plus access to your data plan at no extra charge within the U.S., Canada, and Mexico. Customers on other plans can add the Roam North America feature to their existing plans to receive these benefits, too.

Verizon International Plan

Verizon has more subscribers than any other American mobile phone service provider. If you're one of them, here are your options:

Pay per day: For $10 per day, per line, Verizon's TravelPass lets you use your domestic talk, text, and data plan in more than 200 destinations outside of the U.S. Calls within the country you're visiting and calls back to the U.S. are included, but calls to another country will incur additional international long-distance rates, which vary depending on the country.

For longer trips: Verizon's International Monthly Plan costs $100 per line, per month, and gets you 250 minutes of talk, unlimited texting, and unlimited data including 20GB of high speed, then 3G speeds after that. Be mindful of your minutes on this plan — overages will cost you an additional $0.25 per minute.

Traveling to Canada or Mexico: All Verizon unlimited mobile plans allow you to use your usual talk, text, and data allowances in Canada and Mexico without additional charges. Those with other Verizon plans can buy the TravelPass for $5 per day to use in Canada or Mexico.

T-Mobile International Plan

T-Mobile offers a range of perks to international travelers, including:

Pay per day: T-Mobile's International Day Pass gives you 512MB of high-speed data and unlimited calling for $5 a day. The plan works in more than 200 countries and destinations, which T-Mobile calls "Simple Global" countries.

For longer trips: T-Mobile's Magenta and Magenta MAX plans give you unlimited texting and data in Simple Global destinations at no additional cost. With the standard Magenta plan, you get 5GB of high speed in just 11 European countries, then speeds of 128kbps after that and in other Simple Global regions. With Magenta MAX, you get high speed across T-Mobile's global range. With both, international calls cost $0.25 per minute.

Note that the Essentials plan, T-Mobile's most basic, includes unlimited international texting but no data, and prepaid plans do not include global coverage. Data speeds are slow with T-Mobile's included coverage, however, and if you want to use your phone for media streaming or just have faster data, you may want to purchase an International Pass.

The great benefit of T-Mobile international plans is that even after you've used up all your allotted data, you can still use unlimited data and texting at Simple Global speeds, unlike other carriers, which charge you for data overages.

Another perk for travelers: T-Mobile offers in-flight Wi-Fi through a partnership with Intelsat. Get one hour free with Magenta or unlimited in-flight Wi-Fi with Magenta Plus.

Traveling to Canada or Mexico: Unlimited texts and data are included at no extra cost. However, only Magenta and Magenta MAX plans will get you high-speed data in Canada and Mexico.

Sprint International Plan

Sprint merged with T-Mobile in 2020 but still offers its own mobile plans. Here are your options in terms of international coverage:

Pay per day: Sprint's day pass allows you to use high-speed data in more than 200 destinations. Depending on where you are, it costs $5 or $10 per day. You could also pay weekly — $25 or $50, respectively.

For longer trips: Global Roaming is included with all Sprint plans, providing free international texting and basic data of up to 2G speeds at no extra cost. International calls cost $0.25 per minute. If you have a need for faster data, you should purchase the high-speed data day pass.

T-Mobile and Sprint are doubly convenient as they require no activation prior to travel. Simply start using your phone while abroad and your included global coverage will kick in.

Traveling to Canada or Mexico: Texting and data at basic speeds are free on all plans. Additionally, those with unlimited data plans get a high-speed allowance while in Canada or Mexico — 5GB for Unlimited Basic subscribers, 10GB for Unlimited Plus subscribers, and unlimited high speed for Unlimited Premium subscribers. On other plans, you can buy high-speed data for $2 per day or $10 per week.

Purchasing a SIM Card Abroad

If you plan to be abroad for a longer period of time — say for a year to teach English, a two-month sabbatical, or even a month-long backpacking trip — it may make sense (and be more cost effective) to purchase a SIM card abroad. In order to use a local or international SIM card, your phone must be unlocked.

Having an "unlocked" phone typically means you own your phone outright — either you've paid all your installments or you bought the phone at full price to begin with — and have gone through the process of unlocking your phone with your carrier, often as simple as following a set of instructions online. If you bought your phone from Verizon, you might be able to avoid this process as the carrier automatically unlocks its phones after 60 days.

Local vs. International SIM Cards

Local SIM cards work only in the country where you buy them. This is often the cheapest option because you're effectively paying as a local. Local SIMs will also provide you with fast data as you'll be using local networks. You can purchase a local SIM card from a vendor when you arrive in your destination country — even at the airport, if you want.

If you plan to travel across borders, an international SIM card might be a better option as it will allow you to use one SIM in multiple countries. You can purchase and set up an international SIM before you travel, saving you the trouble of purchasing one abroad. Do your research, though, because international SIM rates can be even more expensive than your carrier's international plans. Companies such as WorldSIM , OneSimCard , Telestial , and Mobal offer international SIM cards that provide different coverage options and price points.

If you're traveling to Europe, you can purchase a SIM card that works throughout the EU. This is likely to be cheaper than purchasing an international SIM card.

How Does Using a SIM Card Work?

You can buy a local SIM card at most wireless stores and even at some airports or convenience stores. Some places may require certain documentation such as your passport. If you're nervous about putting the new SIM card into your phone, purchase it from an expert (as opposed to, say, a supermarket) so you can ask for help. Just make sure not to lose your original SIM so you can put it back into your phone when you go back home.

If you run out of minutes or data on the card, you can always go back to the store to top up or purchase more data and minutes online. Do some quick research to figure out which carriers offer the most bang for your buck in your destination.

Buying or Renting a Phone Abroad

If your current phone is still under contract, you can buy or rent a local phone in your destination (often for cheap) from a company like Mobal or Cellular Abroad , then purchase a SIM locally. Or, if you've still got an old phone tucked away somewhere, unlock that phone and use it instead for traveling.

Using a Third-party Data Provider

While a local SIM is certainly a great, cost-efficient option, most travelers aren't concerned with making calls and texting with a local phone number. If you just want to be able to have Internet access and use the apps on your phone, a third-party data-only provider is a great alternative.

GigSky , for example, is an international eSIM (no physical card required) that gives you mobile data in more than 190 destinations. It's super easy to purchase and activate — just download the app, pick a plan, download the eSIM, and you're good to go. GigSky offers four plans: seven days and 1GB of data for $8.99, 15 days and 3GB of data for $22.99, 30 days and 5GB of data for $34.99, and 30 days of 10GB of data for $68.99. If you run out, you can top up through the app.

Another option, Google Fi provides data through T-Mobile's network, and it uses Wi-Fi for calling and texting wherever available across more than 200 destinations. There are no contracts or activation fees, and rates range from $20 to $65 per line depending on how many lines you want to include. The most basic plan will get you unlimited international texting from the U.S. to other countries, unlimited data, calling, and texting in the U.S., Canada, and Mexico, and 5GB of high-speed hotspot tethering; the Plus plan will get you all that plus international calling to more than 50 destinations, data in more than 200 destinations, and unlimited high-speed hotspot tethering. If your phone is compatible, you can use an eSIM instead of a physical SIM card.

Using a Portable Wi-Fi Hotspot

If you plan to do a lot of work while you're abroad and would like constant access to Wi-Fi on your laptop instead of just on your phone, you might want to look into getting a portable Wi-Fi device . These provide Wi-Fi access wherever you bring them, plus they can be accessed by multiple people and devices at the same time. One good option for international travel is the SIMO Solis Lite , available on Amazon. It's small enough to fit in your pocket, works in more than 135 countries, can connect to 10 devices at once, and provides the option of a VPN for extra security.

Traveling Without Data

Of course, if you don't want to spend any money at all to use your phone abroad, you can simply be on the lookout for a free Wi-Fi signal. In a perfect world, free, reliable Wi-Fi would be everywhere. But in reality, open Wi-Fi networks may be few and far between while you travel, and even when available, they often provide slow, spotty connection (or none at all). If you choose to wing it with open Wi-Fi networks, just make sure to leave your phone on airplane mode. You will still be able to connect to Wi-Fi, but this ensures that you won't be charged international roaming fees because of background data running. To be extra cautious, turn off cellular data in the settings of your phone.

Charging Your Phone Abroad

After investing time and money to be able to use your phone abroad, the last thing you want is to wind up in your destination with a phone charger that doesn't work with the local outlets. Make sure that you've got the proper travel adapter before you go.

Related Articles

• GTA 5 Cheats
• Print on a Chromebook
• Nothing Phone 2 Review
• Best YouTube TV Alternatives
• Asus ROG Ally vs. Steam Deck
• Gameshare on Nintendo Switch

Digital Trends may earn a commission when you buy through links on our site. Why trust us?

The 6 best phone plans for international travel in 2024

If you’re traveling abroad, you’ll want to keep your wireless service active for many reasons, the most important being to still contact friends and family. It’s highly likely you’ll also need to use GPS, Google, and other smartphone features during your trip. Unfortunately, even with the best cell phone plan deals , most wireless plans don’t include international travel or coverage overseas. That means you’ll either have to sign up explicitly for a foreign wireless account, or you can grab a burner phone to use while you’re there. Regardless, there are a few options, and we’ve taken the liberty of hunting down the best ones and sharing them all for you right here.

The best phone plans for international travel in 2024

• Go with if you want reliable yet flexible international plans.
• Go with Google Fi for temporary coverage with existing plans.
• Go with if you’re an existing customer and want to use the daily TravelPass.
• Go with for another solid and reliable wireless option.
• Go with for the best eSIM opportunities.
• Go with for specific and affordable coverage in select countries and regions.

Best flexible option

• Price: $60 to $90 per month
• Data: Free up to 5GB depending on plan and country
• Options: Talk, text, and data

T-Mobile is one of the best international travel providers because of its extreme flexibility. In addition to its voice and text plans, you can add an international pass for up to 15GB for 30 days to secure data coverage. However, T-Mobile expressly states that its services are “not for extended international use,” meaning your primary usage must include coverage at home in the United States.

• Best Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 4 deals: Grab the foldable phone for $700
• Best Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra deals: How to get the phone for free
• Best iPhone deals: Save on iPhone 15, iPhone 15 Pro Max and more

Best for temporary coverage

• Price: $20 to $65 per month
• Data: $10 per GB

If you’re a U.S. resident traveling abroad, Google Fi is an excellent option, especially if you already use the service. The cost for a single phone line is between $20 and $65  — plus taxes and fees — depending on which plan you opt for, and data abroad is about $10 per GB, with free data after 6GB per month. Talk costs about 20 cents per minute abroad in eligible countries. If you subscribe to the Unlimited Plus plan, you’ll get unlimited talk, text, and data in over 200 destinations worldwide. In some areas, Google Fi will rely on other carrier networks, like T-Mobile’s, to ensure you have widespread coverage. Basically, the most important thing to know here is that Google expressly forbids the use of Google Fi internationally if that’s your only activity. In other words, if you’re traveling abroad temporarily, it’s okay, but if you’re a permanent resident elsewhere, it’s a no-no.

Try Google Fi

Best for existing customers

• Price: Adds $10 per day to $100 per month
• Data: Unlimited

Verizon offers several options for international wireless coverage, including Verizon TravelPass and its international monthly plans. With TravelPass, you pay $10 per day, per line, for unlimited talk, text, and data, and it’s accessible in over 210 countries. TravelPass only charges you for the days you use data or send or receive calls. Alternatively, Verizon’s international monthly plan is $100 per month for 250 minutes of talk, but you get unlimited texts and data in eligible countries. The TravelPass option is excellent if Verizon is already your main wireless carrier.

Another great option

• Price: Adds $10 per day

Like the other major carriers, AT&T offers a variety of international options for existing customers. Mexico and Canada are already covered, for example, with calls up to 85-plus countries from the U.S. for $15 per month, per line, and discounted rates in an additional 140 countries. You can also take on specific international access for Europe, Asia Pacific, and other countries through a $10 per day International Day Pass. With that, you get unlimited talk, text, and data, and you can add on extra phones for just $5 per day per phone.

Best eSIM option

• Price: Adds $10 per month
• Data: $5 per 1GB for 7 days
• Options: Data (talk and text over data)

Maybe it’s surprising to see Boost Mobile on this list, or maybe not, but it offers some great international support via the International Connect plans, and eSIM compatibility. With any existing Boost plan, $10 per month gets you International Connect for voice in over 120 countries and texting in over 200. You will need an eSIM on an unlocked phone to utilize it, however, so if your phone doesn’t support the protocol you’ll need another option. You can also add data, starting at $5 for 1GB over 7 days.

Best modular option

• Price: $36 to $89 per month
• Data: 20GB over 30 to 180 days (depending on location)

If your device supports eSIM, you can also use something like Airalo to find coverage wherever you’re traveling. Be aware that standard SMS is not available through something like this as it’s data-based only, but you can still send text and make voice calls over data connections where available. Prices vary, but they do tend to be cheaper than other options, with callouts being 20GB over 180 days for $89 in over 84 countries globally or 20GB over 30 days for $36 in France. You can buy piecemeal based on where you’ll be visiting and for how long you’ll be there.

How we chose these phone plans for international travel

The core elements of a good international wireless plan will differ greatly from local options. Speeds, for example, will be limited by what’s available in the current country or region. The same is true for wireless coverage, which can directly affect signal strength and connection experiences. That said, there are some common factors that you should look for when choosing a plan for yourself or your family.

You’re traveling, maybe even to multiple countries or locations, so you need the plan to be reliable but flexible, and the same goes for the price. The last thing you want to see is unexpected roaming or international charges because the plan didn’t offer coverage in an obscure situation or remote location.

All the plans that we have chosen are feasible in this regard, offering flexible yet accessible pricing that’s clear and easily modifiable when needed to match coverage requirements. Ultimately, these plans reduce the headaches and complexities of managing international wireless services.

Maintenance

With some plans, like a WiFi-only plan, you need to do something to activate the plan and make sure you’re getting coverage — in that case, you would need to disable your mobile activity and swap to a nearby WiFi network. Moreover, some might require you to use a specific physical SIM card, eSIM, or digital SIM card, which might require you to swap out your current one or activate the digital variant. These small maintenance tasks are important to keep in mind because it’s easy to forget the upkeep when you’re busy exploring or sightseeing. We were mindful to select wireless options that make this process as simple or virtually seamless as possible.

Plan Features

As with a local plan, international plans also have varying features. Some allow you to text, access a limited quantity of data, and make calls to supported countries. However, not all plans are created equal, which means some will restrict some of these options or charge extra for using them. It’s important to pay close attention to what you’re getting with your plan so you don’t encounter any unforeseen charges. We’ve made sure everything on our list offers a suitable arrangement of features, from text and talk to beyond.

Unlimited Data

By now, you’re probably well aware this is a thing in the wireless industry: They promise “unlimited data,” but what you’re really getting is not that. The same is true with international phone plans and coverage. When available, you might see data speeds throttled after certain thresholds, connectivity issues in various locations, or even some hidden charges associated when there shouldn’t be. There’s not much you can do about this, disingenuous on the part of wireless providers or not. But you should definitely be mindful of these concerns and keep an eye on your phone bill, just in case.

Q&A about international phone plans

If you still have some questions after reading through the guide, this is where you’ll find the answers.

Do I need to buy a new phone?

It depends on your current phone’s capabilities and what wireless provider you decide to go with abroad. Some devices are not compatible across the different carrier networks. Moreover, you might need to swap out your current SIM for another to gain access, and depending on where you purchase or acquire the card, they may not be compatible with specific carriers.

What are hidden fees?

Typically, when you sign a contract or subscribe to a plan with your wireless provider, you agree to some combination of talk, text, and data for a specific monthly rate — say, $75 per month. However, when you receive your bill, you’ll notice almost immediately that the true cost is higher than what was promised. All that extra, the additional money you’re being charged, makes up hidden fees.

Some fees come from the carriers themselves, like smartphone line access, device payments or subsidies, or usage and additional purchase charges for various services like roaming or international coverage. Other fees include the Fed Universal service charge, regulatory fees, administrative charges, local business license surcharges, taxes, and governmental surcharges, including state fees and beyond. In some cases, you can try to negotiate these charges, but you’ll still see them on your bill, regardless.

There are hidden fees associated with international wireless plans, too.

Can you use WiFi abroad?

Yes, you can use WiFi abroad and while traveling internationally. Whether or not you can access the network(s) for free depends on the provider. Just like here in the States, local coffee shops and small venues may provide free access to service. Others may charge a small fee to use their network. While we would not recommend maintaining contact with friends and family through WiFi alone and cutting off mobile service entirely, it is an alternative in areas where coverage may be spotty or unavailable.

This article is managed and created separately from the Digital Trends Editorial team.

Editors' Recommendations

• Best Verizon new customer deals: Galaxy S24, iPhone and more
• Best Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 5 deals: Get the foldable for free
• Best Samsung Galaxy S22 deals: Save big on unlocked models
• Best refurbished iPhone deals: Get an iPhone 14 for $513
• Best prepaid phone deals: Android, iPhone, flip phone
• Best Products

Briley has been writing about consumer electronics and technology for over a decade. When he's not writing about deals for Digital Trends, he's writing how-to content, and guides for Lifewire , Ideaing , and several other online publications. He's also a ghostwriter for more than one confidential SEO marketing agency. In his downtime, he's either spending time with his family, playing games, or enjoying a good ol' stogie.

Apple’s iPhone is one of the most popular phones on the planet, and whatever its current model happens to be almost always ranks among the best phones. This makes the iPhone an expensive purchase, which is where the iPhone SE comes in. Apple launched the iPhone SE in order to make an iPhone affordable to more people. The SE utilizes technology that’s a generation or two old and will often take the form factor of a previous iPhone model. Right now the it's a great phone to turn to for even more savings through Apple deals.

While it’s difficult to find newer iPhone SE models, you can shop refurbished knowing the big retailers are likely backing the purchase with warranties and solid return windows. So whether you’re looking for some great iPhone deals or phone deals in general, below you’ll find the best iPhone SE deals to shop right now. If you decide you need something with a bit more power, check out iPhone 14 deals and iPhone 15 deals. iPhone SE 2nd Gen deals

While the iPhone 15 may be Apple’s most recent iPhone release, that only makes the iPhone 14 a better way to save. The iPhone 14 isn’t far removed from being among the best phones on the market, and it’s still a powerhouse option for most smartphone users. There are a lot of ways to save with Apple deals on the iPhone 14, with shopping refurbished models being one of the best. You'll get a good warranty and a large return window when shopping refurbished iPhone deals at most major retailers, which makes them some of the best iPhone deals you'll find. With so many to take advantage of right now, we thought we’d do the heavy lifting and put all of the best iPhone 14 deals together in one place. Apple iPhone 14 -- from $479, was $699

With the Apple iPhone 14 you’re getting what is still one of the most popular smartphones on the market. This is the iPhone 14 model that’s meant for everyone. It holds back a few features you can only get on the Pro model, but it still has an impressive 6.1-inch display, an impressive camera, and dozens of ways to personalize your iOS experience with widgets and fonts. The phone can reach up to 26 hours of battery life on a single charge, and it’s powered by Apple’s A15 Bionic chip. Face ID, emergency SOS via satellite, and super fast 5G cellular connectivity round out the top features of the Apple iPhone 14. Buy Refurbished at Amazon — from $479

For super cheap phone deals, go straight to the source and head to Motorola. Right now, you can buy the Moto G 5G phone for just $150, saving you $100 off the regular price of $250. For a budget phone, it’s ideal to keep you happy with necessities like web browsing, social media, text and calls. Here’s everything else you need to know about it.

Why you should buy the Moto G 5G You won’t see the Moto G 5G on our look at the best Android phones as it’s pretty basic. At this price though, that’s hardly surprising. It has the essentials covered well. There’s a 6.4-inch HD+ screen which looks pretty good for the price. That’s helped by its 120Hz refresh rate which means you get smooth scrolling and no motion blur when watching videos or playing games. Alongside that are two large stereo speakers so you can be suitably entertained here. There’s also Dolby Atmos support to provide more immersive sound.

Advertiser Disclosure

Many of the credit card offers that appear on this site are from credit card companies from which we receive financial compensation. This compensation may impact how and where products appear on this site (including, for example, the order in which they appear). However, the credit card information that we publish has been written and evaluated by experts who know these products inside out. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse. This site does not include all credit card companies or all available credit card offers that are on the market.  See our advertising policy here where we list advertisers that we work with, and how we make money. You can also review our  credit card rating methodology .

The Best International Cell Phone Plans For Travelers [Verizon, T-Mobile, AT&T, Google Fi]

James Larounis

Senior Content Contributor

554 Published Articles 1 Edited Article

Countries Visited: 30 U.S. States Visited: 35

Keri Stooksbury

Editor-in-Chief

35 Published Articles 3209 Edited Articles

Countries Visited: 47 U.S. States Visited: 28

Table of Contents

What phones can you use internationally, the best international cell phone plans, saving on international rates, final thoughts.

We may be compensated when you click on product links, such as credit cards, from one or more of our advertising partners. Terms apply to the offers below. See our  Advertising Policy for more about our partners, how we make money, and our rating methodology. Opinions and recommendations are ours alone.

Your phone is your map, source of information, and a translator. These modern conveniences have made international travel easier and safer. Whether you’re leaving for a year abroad, going off to become an expat, or are just heading for a long weekend in Mexico, you’ll need to sort out what you want to do for an international cell phone plan.

Similar to figuring out how international plugs work, making sure your passport is ready , and deciding on what to pack , your phone requires some preparation before you leave to travel internationally.

If you decide to stick to your current carrier or switch cell phone providers, the company you work with may charge you extra for your travels. Make sure you understand your plan carefully and know what it will cost to use your data, minutes, and texts — and what happens when you go over.

Which plans work the best, what do they offer, and what do they cost? These are some important questions you’ll need to consider when looking at what options will work best for you.

In this post, we’ll take a look at:

• What a world phone is, and how to equip yourself for international travel
• What international plans each of the major cell phone carriers offer
• What the pros and cons of each service are
• Who each cell phone plan service is best for

Once a few technical words get thrown around, many people think they won’t be able to understand how any of this works. Don’t worry, using a phone overseas isn’t as difficult as it can sometimes sound.

The first thing to understand is that different companies and countries all use their own technologies and frequencies. You need a phone that is compatible with these technologies.

Verizon uses a technology called CDMA (Code Division Multiple Access). Most other carriers and the world use what’s called GSM (Global System for Mobile Communication). There are phones on Verizon that also support GSM, but those that don’t won’t work as world phones.

Rather than explain the technical differences between GSM and CDMA, which often confuses folks, it’s important to understand that carriers use different technologies, and different parts of the world use different systems — what is relevant for you is which plans and carriers you can use abroad.

Hot Tip: If you bought a phone advertised as “unlocked” or “SIM-free,” it should be designed to be ready to use on global GSM networks.

Every carrier offers a list of popular models of “world phones,” including such options as the iPhone XRS Max and Samsung Galaxy S10.

Many of the phones you get for free or discounted in exchange for signing up for a service contract are locked. This means they are locked to the network the contract is with. Your cell phone provider prevents your phone from using another network, and it may not be able to work internationally.

Hot Tip: If your phone is locked, try asking your cell phone company if they will unlock it for you.

Unfortunately, there isn’t a one-size-fits-all option for international cell phone plans. Below, you’ll find information on all the major carriers and their plan options, along with the pros and cons of each. Use this to sort out what will work best for you and go with your gut.

Be aware that your needs will be different if you are traveling short-term versus a month or more. Plans like Verizon’s Above Unlimited have restrictions when you use more than 50% of your talk, text, or data while you’re traveling internationally (meaning, you shouldn’t use a U.S.-based plan when abroad full-time). They sometimes severely limit (or even cancel) your cell phone service when this happens. Keep this in mind when you’re reviewing your options.

Your first option on Verizon is its TravelPass plan , which gives you the option to take your regular talk, text, and data with you on your trip (meaning, you use whatever amount of talk, text and data speeds you regularly use within the United States).

You will be charged $5 a day (on every line) for days you use your service in Mexico and Canada. There is a list of 130 additional countries where you can use your phone at a rate of $10 per day. Most popular countries are included in this list, such as Argentina, Australia, Chile, France, the Netherlands, South Africa, the United Kingdom, and more.

Activating your TravelPass through the Verizon Wireless app is all you need to do to have coverage and it’s a simple add-on to your normal monthly bill.

When you arrive at an international location, your phone will automatically recognize where you are and will connect to the local signal. Once it does, your TravelPass kicks in and it won’t renew or use another pass until 24 hours (not a full calendar day) have elapsed. If you land in a foreign country at 2 p.m. on one day and leave at 11 a.m. the next day, you only use 1 TravelPass.

If you use a lot of data uploading photos and using maps while you’re traveling, then you should be aware that the 4G speeds you rely on with Verizon are only available for your first 512 MB on the TravelPass. Once you’ve passed 512 MB, Verizon will throttle your speed down to 2G.

The Verizon Wireless Above Unlimited plan will offer you unlimited data, no contract, for $95 per month. You can receive a $5 a month discount if you set your payments to auto-pay.

This plan isn’t an add-on, but is one that you can use when you’re on brief trips abroad when you feel like it. Essentially, instead of charging you separate per-use days like the TravelPass add-on, the passes are built-in to the plan itself.

Talk, text, and data are included while you’re in Mexico and Canada (no extra charge) and the plan comes with 5 TravelPasses every month. This means you can use a TravelPass for talk, text, and data in 130 countries for 5 days per month with no extra expense. If you exceed the 5 free days a month, then you’ll continue at the normal rate of $10 per additional day.

Again, once you’ve used 512 MB of 4G speeds, you’ll be throttled down to 2G.

For comparison, if you decide to pay as you go on Verizon while abroad, you’ll be charged top rates. It costs $.99 a minute for calling in Canada and Mexico, $1.79+ in most other countries, $.50 for every text you send, $.05 for every text you receive and $2.05 for every MB of data you use. A simple app download or directions on a map can cost you several hundreds of dollars, so keep this in mind if you decide to pay as you go.

For cruise ships, there’s a fairly basic plan that’s included with your basic service. It will cost $2.99 a minute for calling, $.50 to send a text, and $.05 to receive a text; no data capabilities are available while at sea.

• You don’t have to worry about unlocking a phone because you’re still on the Verizon network.
• It’s easy to add for short trips.
• The Verizon U.S. LTE coverage has been great for a long time.
• The unlimited plan includes the 5 TravelPasses, as well as free talk and text in Mexico and Canada.
• Your personal number stays the same at no extra cost.
• This option can be pricey. The $5-$10 a day TravelPasses add up quickly, especially with multiple lines and on long trips.
• While there are many places covered in its 130 locations, there are also many that still aren’t, so you’ll want to check to be sure you’ll have coverage for your specific trip before signing up.

Bottom Line: This Plan Is Great For: People who already use Verizon and don’t want to have to call to add an international add-on. If you take frequent and short trips abroad in areas where it has service, the Above Unlimited is a great choice.

T-Mobile is a great option for international travel because its plans make things simple.

The T-Mobile One plan for unlimited data lets you keep your unlimited data and texting when you travel to 210 locations. However, it caps your data at a shockingly low 128 kbps. This means that even just browsing web pages (exclusive of video) you’ll be throttled down to 2G speeds. It also charges for international phone calls, so if you talk a lot on your phone this can become expensive quickly.

To combat these downsides, T-Mobile offers International Passes for faster data while you’re abroad. Its 5 GB pass keeps you on the 4G network for 10 days with unlimited calling at a cost of $35. It  also has an option for 15 GB for 30 full days at $50.

Another option is a $5 pass with 512 MB of high-speed data and unlimited calling. This is much more limited, but if you’re traveling for a short period and don’t believe you’ll be making many calls on FaceTime or another data-consuming app, this can be a simple add-on with enough to get online at faster speeds.

Cruise rates vary depending on the ship or destination you’re traveling to (you can check here for rates ), but as an example, if you choose to travel on the Royal Caribbean Voyager of the Seas which sails in the South Pacific, your at-home T-Mobile plan includes no data on the cruise ship, $.50 for sent texts, and $5.99 a minute for calls.

• The 2G speed data is free with your regular plan.
• Expansive coverage in 210 locations, which basically means almost everywhere.
• While it covers a great many countries, when you get beyond major U.S. cities the coverage can be spotty.
• International phone calls can become very expensive very fast since they are not included.

Bottom Line: This Plan Is Great For:  People who travel frequently and want international service included at no additional expense. This plan is cheapest when you don’t mind super slow 2G speeds when traveling abroad.

On both the Unlimited & More and the Unlimited & More Premium plans on AT&T , you will be able to travel to Mexico and Canada with all of your talk, data, and text already paid for. Its Mobile Share Plus plans allow you to use your talk, text, and data when you are in Mexico.

In 100+ other countries, AT&T offers an International Day Pass for $10 a day, offering the unlimited talk, text, and data already in your regular plan.

This charge can add up quickly when you’re on longer trips, though. The AT&T Passport plan lets you use your normal within-U.S. plan for 30 days while you’re out of the country. AT&T recently redid this plan, since the old AT&T passport option only offered 200 MB of data, which is just not enough for most people.

The Passport plan costs $60 for 30 days and offers 1 GB of data and unlimited texting. You can raise this to 3 GB of data for $120 for the month. At that point, you should never go any further if you value your budget, because it charges you $50 for every GB over the 3 GB. Phone calls are not included and you will be charged $.35 per minute.

If you’re headed onto a cruise , AT&T also has you covered with 2 plans. Its $100-a-month plan includes unlimited talk and text and 200 MB of data, with additional data costing $2 per MB. Its $50-a-month cruise package includes 50 minutes of talk (overages charged at $2 per minute), unlimited texting, and no data.

Data on cruising is expensive no matter which plan you choose, so if you can, subscribe to the onboard Wi-Fi that your cruise ship may offer.

For comparison, if you don’t choose one of these plans, you’re charged at insane rates: $3 per minute for talk, $.50 for each text sent and over $6 for every MB of data you use. Yikes!

• It’s easy to use and add to your account.
• You are staying on the AT&T network so you don’t need to find an unlocked phone.
• There isn’t any data speed throttling, which is common on other networks.
• You can take phone calls on your regular number without paying any extra fees.
• If you’re on a share plan, you’ll need to monitor the data usage.
• While there are many places that are covered (over 100), there are many that still aren’t.
• The $10 fee every day for every line will add up very quickly. If you go on a family trip with 4 lines and are traveling for 5 days you could see an additional $200 on your monthly bill.

Looking for more information? See our detailed piece dedicated to AT&T International Phone Plans including countries, coverage rates, and more.

Bottom Line: This Plan Is Great For:  People who love data and texting, but aren’t big on making phone calls. It’s not the best if you are on a shared plan and going to be buying an International Day Pass for everyone in your group, but the 30-day plans with unlimited data are excellent for users who mostly need its phones for data or texting while on an extended trip.

Alternative Choice: Google Fi

Google Fi doesn’t come up as an option as a major carrier (yet). While it may not yet be a mainstream option, it is one that is becoming increasingly popular with frequent travelers.

Google Fi treats international data and domestic data the same. It uses the cell towers of T-Mobile and US Cellular and covers over 200 locations.

Internationally, your calls will cost $.20 , unless you are on Wi-Fi, which will be free. You still have unlimited text messages while traveling internationally.

Its plans cost $20 for a month of unlimited talk and text and every 1 GB of data is $10 a month. The data is rounded off to the nearest MB meaning you only pay for the data you actually use. If you are a heavy data user, it stops charging you at 6 GB. This means your bill will never be over $80 a month.

Google Fi offers a few phones, but it is also open to using most phones you’ve purchased elsewhere, including the iPhone. Buying one of its  phones (like the Google Pixel or some of the Moto and LG phones) makes it so that you can switch between cell networks and hotspots easier.

If you’re using Google Fi aboard a cruise ship, make sure to connect to the onboard Wi-Fi for free calls.

• International data and domestic data are treated the same.
• Google Fi covers 170+ destinations.
• There is no contract; you pay monthly.
• To sign up for Google-Fi, it sometimes offer great incentives such as high-dollar gift cards or freebies.
• Even with the combination of T-Mobile and US Cellular cell phone towers, your coverage at home may vary.
• Some users have found Google-Fi difficult to sign up for.

Bottom Line: This Plan Is Great For:  Frequent travelers and those who have an approved phone or who are interested in buying a Google Pixel (or other phone sold by Google). It’s important that the T-Mobile/US Cellular cell towers work well for you in your local area when you’re back at home.

There’s no doubt that using your phone outside of the U.S. can be a bit pricey — most major plans cost more than you pay for your domestic service. To save on these costs while outside of the country, there are a few things you can do:

Connect to Wi-Fi

This may sound obvious, but it’s one of the biggest ways you can save money. Most phone plans can make calls over Wi-Fi for no extra cost , and you are able to download movies, music, or check emails without using cellular data.

Most branded hotels offer some type of complimentary Wi-Fi for a daily nominal rate. When you’re in your hotel, enable your phone to automatically connect to the hotel’s signal so that you won’t have to think about whether or not your phone is using international roaming rates. Outside of the hotel, many museums , restaurants, and even public spaces offer complimentary Wi-Fi.

Use a Hotspot

There are several major hotspots designed for traveling. One of the largest brands is Skyroam . For as little as $9 a day, you can enjoy unlimited data. The hotspots offer a flat daily rate so you don’t have to worry about different charges for different areas or overages.

Since a hotspot usually provides unlimited data, it is more than likely cheaper than your traditional cell phone plan international service. You can connect your phone to this hotspot signal to make calls over Wi-Fi, download any necessary emails, and use your phone as a GPS, all without worrying about eating up precious data.

The only downside to using a hotspot is that it is an extra device you will have to carry with you when you are out. Some travelers clip the hotspot onto their belt, or stuff it in a backpack .

Turn off Your Cellular Data When You Aren’t Using It

Many cell phone plans charge for every day you use talk, text, and data abroad — and the more days you use it, the higher your charges. There may be some days, however, where you don’t need data as much — for example, you might be inside all day where you can connect to Wi-Fi, or you may be flying between countries where you will be away from a cell signal.

Whatever the case, if you shut off your cellular signal (or turn your phone in Airplane Mode, as many people do), your phone won’t connect to a network and you won’t be charged for that day’s worth of usage.

The best international cell phone plan will be an individual decision.

While Google Fi isn’t one of the major mainstream U.S. carriers, it shouldn’t be overlooked as it is one of the strongest options for international plans, especially those who rely heavily on data.

T-Mobile’s plans are a strong option for those who need great coverage at home and internationally for frequent trips. AT&T’s plan for travel is great for trips to Canada and Mexico since both are included in the most basic version.

Consider what your travel plans are — where you are going and how often, what your needs are at home, and whether voice, data, or texting is most important to you. When you know what your needs are, it’s easier to make a decision on which are the best plans to get you the most coverage for the best price.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can i use my cell phone in a different country.

Most modern cell phones are equipped to work internationally, however, to be able to actually talk, text or use data, you need to contact your wireless carrier to ensure that your phone can connect to a network abroad. Usually, this requires you to subscribe to your wireless carrier’s international cellular plan, which may cost a few dollars a day.

Does AT&T have an international plan?

AT&T offers 2 international plans – a day pass type plan that charges by the day, and a Passport plan that allows the user to use their phone abroad for a month for a set price.

Was this page helpful?

About James Larounis

James (Jamie) started The Forward Cabin blog to educate readers about points, miles, and loyalty programs. He’s spoken at Princeton University and The New York Times Travel Show and has been quoted in dozens of travel publications.

INSIDERS ONLY: UP PULSE ™

Get the  latest travel tips, crucial news, flight & hotel deal alerts...

Plus — expert strategies to maximize your points & miles by joining our (free) newsletter.

We respect your privacy . This site is protected by reCAPTCHA. Google's  privacy policy   and  terms of service   apply.

Related Posts

UP's Bonus Valuation

This bonus value is an estimated valuation  calculated by UP after analyzing redemption options, transfer partners, award availability and how much UP would pay to buy these points.

International Add-On Comparison: T-Mobile vs Verizon vs AT&T

‍ T-Mobile , Verizon , and AT&T all offer a variety of international add-ons to choose from. 

There are three main types of international add-ons: 

• Monthly plans
• Pay-as-you-go plans

International Day Passes

The day passes are similar between the three carriers, but they vary slightly in terms of price and specific features.

T-Mobile's International 1 Day pass is $5/day and includes 0.5GB of high-speed data before your data is shut off. You get hotspot support, unlimited calling and texting, and this add-on works in 210 supported countries.

Verizon offers almost the same add-on here with what they call “TravelPasses.” TravelPasses are $10 per day and include the same 0.5GB of high-speed data, hotspot support, and unlimited calling and texting. Verizon’s TravelPasses work in 185 supported countries .

Verizon also offers a $5/day TravelPass just for Canada and Mexico . This is helpful for people looking for a more affordable option and are just traveling across the border to either Canada or Mexico.

AT&T’s Day Pass is the same $10 per day as Verizon’s TravelPass, but it packs way more features. You get unlimited high-speed data, mobile hotspot support, unlimited calling and texting, and it works in over 230 countries. You do have to pay-per-minute to make a call to countries outside of the 230 included countries list, but that’s likely to be very few.

I think T-Mobile and AT&T’s options are the best here. T-Mobile’s add-on is simple and affordable, while AT&T’s add-on justifies the higher price with unlimited high-speed data. 

Monthly International Plans

If you’re staying in an international destination for a longer period of time, you may consider a longer-term plan.

T-Mobile, Verizon, and AT&T all offer 10-day to 30-day plans to choose from. 

T-Mobile’s 5GB International Pass - $35/10 days

T-Mobile’s 5GB international pass is only 10 days, but it’s also the most affordable option at just $35. You get 5GB of high-speed data, mobile hotspot support, unlimited calling and texting, and it works in 210 countries.

Verizon’s Monthly International Plan - $100/30 days

Verizon’s monthly international plan is a pricey $100 per month. And, unfortunately, it’s also super limited. 

You only get 5GB of high-speed data, 250 minutes, and 1,000 sent texts. If you go over your allotments for minutes, texts, or data, you are also automatically billed expensive overage charges. Overage rates are $0.25 per minute, $0.05 per text sent, and $20 per GB of data. 

Two positive attributes of Verizon’s monthly international plan are that the mobile hotspot is supported, so you can share your cellular data with your tablet, laptop, or other devices, and you are able to receive unlimited text messages. 

But with the overall limited amounts of minutes, texts, and data, and the expensive overage charges, I think it’s hard to justify spending $100 on Verizon’s monthly international plan.

AT&T Passport - $70/30 days

AT&T Passport , which is their monthly option, is similarly expensive to Verizon and lacking features. 

It’s $70 per month for just 2GB of data, it doesn’t support the mobile hotspot feature, and calls are billed at $0.35 per minute. 

AT&T also charges expensive overages. If you go over the included 2GB of cellular data, you are automatically at a rate of $30 per GB. You do get unlimited texting though. 

If for some reason you wanted to spend even more money with AT&T, you could also get the 6GB AT&T Passport plan, which runs you $140 per 30 day period. 

In my opinion, Verizon and AT&T’s monthly international plans are absurdly expensive. The $100 and $70 prices are on top of your regular monthly bill here in the United States. The total cost for traveling abroad for one month with these plans would be close to $200 ($80/mo for your US plan and $70-$100 for the international plan, plus all taxes and fees). And that’s assuming you don’t incur any overage charges. 

T-Mobile’s 5GB International Pass is easily the best option here. It’s the most affordable, and it has the most features. 

T-Mobile’s 15GB International Pass - $50/30 days

If 10 days isn’t long enough for you, T-Mobile also offers their 15GB international pass . The 15GB international pass is $50 for 30 days, includes 15GB of high-speed data before reducing your speeds to 128Kbps, and it supports the same features as before.

Not only is T-Mobile’s 15GB international pass substantially cheaper than Verizon and AT&T’s monthly options, but it also delivers 3x to 7x more cellular data and it works in the same countries.

T-Mobile’s 15GB Global Plus Plan - $50/30 days

T-Mobile also offers their Global Plus 15GB add-on . This is basically the same as the other 15GB international pass except for three key differences:

• The Global Plus 15GB plan limits international hotspot data to just 5GB (compared to being able to use the full 15GB as hotspot data with the 15GB international pass)
• You get unlimited hotspot data while within the United States (as opposed to getting your regular amount of hotspot data in the United States)
• You get HD video streaming within the U.S. and abroad in 210+ supported countries

I think the 15GB Global Plus add-on could be tremendously useful while traveling, both domestically in the United States and abroad. 

Getting unlimited high-speed hotspot data while within the United States means you can stay connected as you travel between airports, hotels, or while you are on the road. No more having to rely on slow hotel Wi-Fi or experiencing sluggish connections at airports.

And of course, when you travel abroad you get 15GB of data, unlimited texting, unlimited calling, and unlimited Gogo in-flight Wi-Fi on Gogo enabled flights. 

This is a great plan.

Pay-As-You-Go International Plans

Lastly, we have the two pay-as-you-go plans from Verizon and AT&T. 

And if you thought their monthly plans were expensive, wait until you see these!

Verizon’s pay-as-you-go international plan charges the following for minutes, texts, and data:

• $0.99 per minute in Mexico and Canada
• $1.79 per minute in 130+ countries
• $2.99 per minute in 80+ countries
• $0.50 per text sent
• $0.05 per text received
• $0.25 per MMS sent or received
• $2.05 per MB of cellular data

As you can tell, Verizon’s pay-as-you-go rates are expensive. Making a simple 15 minute phone call to a country in Europe would cost $26.85. That’s over double the cost of their $10 day pass!

And while the $2.05 per MB of cellular data may seem affordable on the onset, it turns out that is $2,050 per GB of cellular data. Over $2,000 per GB!!! That is astronomically expensive, and would probably cost more than your airline ticket!

Maybe AT&T’s pay-as-you-go international plan is better? Here is what their international rates are:

• $1.00 per minute in Mexico and Canada
• $2.00 per minute in Europe
• $3.00 per minute in the rest of the world
• $0.50 per text sent or received
• $1.30 per MMS sent or received

Nope! It turns out that AT&T is even more expensive than Verizon!

AT&T customers are much better off going with AT&T’s $10 per day pass than risking astronomically high prices with AT&T’s pay-as-you-go plan. 

Thankfully, I believe both AT&T and Verizon disable the pay-as-you-go international plans by default. 

However, it’s still probably best to keep your phone in Airplane mode so you don’t incur any accidental charges. Traveling internationally can be expensive enough, and you don't want your cell phone bill racking up additional charges.

The Best International Plan

When it comes to international travel, I think T-Mobile is hands-down the best. 

T-Mobile’s plans not only include international data by default, but you can get high-speed international data at affordable rates and with more features than Verizon or AT&T. 

AT&T’s $10 Day Pass can be a good value, but it would still end up costing you $70 for a 1 week trip. 

But there are two additional options that we haven’t even mentioned yet, and they are probably better than any of the international add-ons we’ve covered so far:

• Getting an international eSIM data plan from US Mobile, Airalo, or another international eSIM vendor
• Getting a plan local to the country you are visiting

The first option is getting an international eSIM data plan. International eSIM plans can be activated on eSIM compatible phones, such as the iPhone 8 or newer or the Pixel 3a or newer, and they provide cellular data while you travel abroad.

International eSIM plans are available from carriers such as US Mobile and Airalo . US Mobile offers an eSIM plan that works all across Europe, and it’s just $15 for 5GB of data . That’s half of what T-Mobile is charging! Airalo also offers a wide selection of eSIM plans that range from $5 to $15 with various amounts of data. 

International eSIM plans are a great and affordable way to stay connected when you travel abroad.They include more data than T-Mobile, Verizon, or AT&T at a fraction of the cost.

The second option is getting a cell phone plan that’s local to the country you are visiting. 

Traveling to the U.K.? You can get a whopping 30GB of data for just £12.00, or about $17.05 USD, from a local carrier called Three.

Going to Spain? Vodafone offers a 20GB plan with 800 minutes for €15.00, or about $18.34 USD. 

Yes, it turns out that cell phone plans are often significantly cheaper in countries outside the United States, and you’re likely going to have a better experience than paying hundreds of dollars to Verizon or AT&T.

Those are how the international options compare between T-Mobile, Verizon, and AT&T.

Share this article with a friend if you found it helpful!

Stetson graduated from Ithaca College in 2019 with a degree in Communication Management and Design. He launched BestPhonePlans.net as part a senior project in school. He loves helping people find great, affordable cell phone plans that meet their needs. When he’s not reviewing cell phone plans on his YouTube channel or website, Stetson is out hiking in the crisp Colorado air, playing board games with friends, or competing in an epic game of pickleball.

What is Verizon Travel Pass in 2024? The International Traveler‘s Guide

Are you planning an exciting trip abroad this year? Want to stay connected through your Verizon cell phone without worrying about huge roaming fees? If so, Verizon Travel Pass may be a great option for you.

As your personal travel tech advisor, I‘ve put together this comprehensive guide to help you understand exactly what Verizon Travel Pass is, how it works, and whether it‘s worth using during your upcoming 2023 travels.

A Quick Overview

Verizon Travel Pass allows Verizon Wireless customers to pay a fixed daily fee for voice, text and data usage while traveling internationally. Here‘s a quick rundown:

• Pay a daily Travel Pass rate of $5 or $10 per day, instead of pay-as-you-go international roaming rates
• Use your voice minutes, send texts, and use data just like you would at home
• Access speeds up to 4G LTE depending on location
• Supported in 185+ countries around the world
• Activated automatically the first time you use data/text/call abroad

Compared to pay-as-you-go roaming which can cost $2-10 per minute, $0.50 per text, and $25 per 100MB of data , Travel Pass offers more cost protection and predictability.

But is it always the best choice for every trip? Let‘s dive deeper…

How Verizon Travel Pass Works

First, Travel Pass has to be added to your eligible Verizon wireless account for an extra $10 per month. This enables the daily pricing whenever you travel internationally.

It activates automatically the first time you use any data, send a text, or make a call while abroad. Verizon will then charge you the daily rate for that country – either $5 or $10 per day.

This daily rate allows you to use your voice, text messaging, and data for a 24 hour period while connected to a participating network. Once the 24 hours is up, you‘ll be charged another daily rate if you continue using Verizon services abroad.

Top Tip: You can manually deactivate Travel Pass if you wish to only use it certain days during your trip, and avoid paying daily charges on non-travel days.

Some other key facts about Verizon Travel Pass:

Works in 185+ countries – See full country list

No Wi-Fi calling – Travel Pass does not include Wi-Fi Calling, so you could incur separate charges

Limited 5G coverage – Only available on Verizon‘s own 5G networks, not local 5G abroad

Stays on your account – Doesn‘t need to be re-added before each trip

Compatible devices required – Won‘t work on non-LTE devices

When Does Travel Pass Make Sense?

Whether Verizon Travel Pass is worth it depends largely on:

• Where you‘re traveling
• How much you plan to use voice, text and data
• If you have an eligible device

For example, a study by Verizon found people traveling to London for 5 days would save ~$60 compared to pay-as-you-go rates.

But frequent texters visiting Madrid could pay the same or less on pay-as-you-go – around $30 with Travel Pass vs $20 in roaming charges.

Travel Pass makes the most financial sense in countries with higher pay-as-you-go rates like Japan, China, or Brazil.

Frequent international travelers who plan to use their phone heavily abroad are likely to save money. But if you just need basic service like Google Maps and occasional texts, pay-as-you-go may work out cheaper.

Pros and Cons of Verizon Travel Pass

Bottom line.

Verizon Travel Pass is best suited for frequent international travelers who plan to use voice, text and data regularly abroad. It provides significant cost protection compared to pay-as-you-go rates.

But it may not be the cheapest option for every destination or light usage. Compare costs carefully based on your specific trip plans.

As your personal tech guide, I recommend being informed about all your options. Do the math to see if Travel Pass or pay-as-you-go makes more financial sense for the country you‘re visiting and your expected phone usage.

Either way, an international travel phone plan can help you stay connected on your trip without breaking the bank. Have an amazing, memorable 2023 journey! Let me know if you have any other cell phone travel questions.

Charles Scott is a dynamic professional whose academic and career achievements demonstrate a strong commitment to excellence in the retail and consumer service industry. Graduating with an MBA from New York University in 2013, Charles has built a diverse and impressive career portfolio. He has held significant roles as a manager, advisor, and marketer, showcasing his multifaceted skills and deep understanding of the industry.

Beyond his direct professional engagements, Charles has made a notable mark as the head writer and founder of ExpertBeacon.com. This platform stands as a testament to his dedication to consumer empowerment and education. ExpertBeacon.com is a resource designed to assist consumers in addressing their persistent questions about products, services, and companies. Under Charles's leadership, the site provides in-depth, well-researched, and accurate information, all structured in easy-to-follow guides and articles. His work here not only highlights his expertise in the field but also his commitment to providing valuable, actionable information to the public.

Charles's approach is centered on a keen understanding of consumer needs and market dynamics, making him a respected voice in the industry. His contributions through ExpertBeacon.com and his professional roles reflect a blend of strategic thinking, practical knowledge, and a genuine desire to enhance consumer experiences in the retail and consumer service sectors.

Similar Posts

Does Grubhub Take Prepaid Cards In 2024? (Full Guide)

Prepaid cards let you make purchases and pay for them on the spot without having to worry about. Does Grubhub take prepaid cards?

What Is Verizon Safety Mode In 2024? (Everything You Need To Know)

Verizon has become one of the most reliable and popular cell phone networks. You may be wondering: what is Verizon safety mode?

USPS Delivery Instructions in 2024: Your Packages, Delivered Your Way

It’s a wonder that the USPS can offer such individualized & specific service to its customers. Here are the USPS delivery instructions!

Is Starbucks Matcha Sweetened in 2024? (An Expert Analysis)

Matcha powder provides a new way to drink tea and it’s become one of the most popular options at Starbucks. Is Starbucks matcha sweetened?

Quitting Your Job at Lowe‘s in 2024: What You Need to Know

To facilitate employees who wish to leave, Lowe's has a quitting policy in place. You may be wondering, the Lowe's quitting policy.

Your Complete Guide to USPS 3 Day Shipping in 2024

Next-day shipping, 2-day shipping, 3-day shipping- the options USPS offers are seemingly endless. Here's the USPS 3 day shipping.

You asked: What’s the best way to get international phone service?

Traveling has always come with complications. Our By The Way Concierge column will take your travel dilemmas to the experts to help you navigate the new normal. Want to see your question answered? Submit it here .

What’s the best way to get internet on your phone abroad? My family of fivewill be traveling from Spain to Italy through France for three weeks this summer. What’s the best IT solution for when we are out sightseeing and away from WiFi and do not have an international cellphone plan? — Thomas D., Dunkirk, Md.

Let’s go through your options, starting with the lowest lift and my go-to: buying an international package from your regular provider. I have Verizon, which offers a plan for $10 per day that includes unlimited text and data in more than 200 countries. In Canada and Mexico, the price is $5 (or free, with select unlimited plans). And for longer trips, they have monthly plans.

Megan Eckley of Imago Artis Travel says her company also tells clients to arrange coverage with their regular carrier. As does Angela Hughes, owner of Trips & Ships Luxury Travel . However, every provider has different policies for their international coverage, so “I always tell them they need to check the details of the package,” she added.

Many provide call and text capabilities, plus access to data, but if you don’t have an unlimited plan and go over your allotted supply, “that can really add up,” Hughes said.

But your phone company’s international options might not pan out everywhere. I learned this on my recent trip to Lebanon, which is not included in Verizon’s international coverage — or any other major U.S. carrier’s. Rani Cheema, founder of Cheema’s Travel , ran into a similar issue on a trip to Italy when she still had Mint Mobile. She was told she’d be covered, but once Cheema landed, “I had absolutely no connection, no service, no anything,” she told me.

Left hanging, Cheema got a local SIM card — your next best bet after your home provider.

This can often be your most affordable option, particularly if you’re traveling for an extended period, says Matt Berna, president for Intrepid Travel ’s North America operations. Once you land in your final destination, you can buy a SIM card from one of the airport’s phone stores or kiosks. For this to work, your phone needs to be unlocked, which can require a call to your carrier to ask them to unlock your device, depending on your carrier. (All Verizon devices, for example, are unlocked after 60 days .)

And regardless of your length of travel, local cards can offer better coverage, says Erik Cooper, founder of Erik Cooper Adventures . Cooper leads travelers on remote trips through Mongolia and Argentina, where he says his T-Mobile unlimited international plan doesn’t work well. Because his phone has the capability to hold two SIM cards , Cooper keeps his T-Mobile plan active and also buys a local card as a backup.

A perk of this method: You’ll have access to your personal number for two-factor authentication needs. If you want to log into your Netflix account in your hotel room but can’t remember the password, for example, you’ll need to receive texts. If you’re only using an international SIM card, you won’t get those important texts from your streaming service, bank, etc.

Option 3 is getting an eSIM, or an electric version of a SIM card, with a local phone company. An eSIM isn’t something you download, but rather technology buried in your device’s circuit board. If you have a newish phone ( here are some examples ) it should have an eSIM and/or a regular, removable SIM card.

Like a standard SIM card, you can get an eSIM from a local provider to get data on your device where you’re traveling. If you have an iPhone , you can install multiple eSIMs and use two phone numbers at the same time — but eSIMs don’t always give you a local phone number; it depends on the carrier and plan you buy. This can be a hurdle in some cases when a local number is required, like if a restaurant in Rome wants to call you when your table is ready and can’t do it by WhatsApp.

For clients interested in eSIMs, Eckley recommends the company Airalo , which sells digital data packs in more than 200 countries. She’s found their services to be fast, easy to use and fairly priced. You can buy Airalo data packages by country or region (in your case, something like a Eurolink option that covers 39 countries).

Konrad Waliszewski, CEO of @hotel , says eSIMs have revolutionized the way travelers stay connected on a budget but they aren’t perfect. They’re not supported by every local carrier and they can be cumbersome to set up. After buying more than 60 international SIM cards and testing various eSIMs, Waliszewski said now he usually defaults to the $10-a-day-move through AT&T, which gives him unlimited service through his regular phone number. (And since Cheema switched from Mint Mobile to Google Fi Wireless , she is on the same page, too.)

It may not be the cheapest possible option, but “it remains the epitome of convenience,” Waliszewski said in a WhatsApp message.

“I just traveled to Uzbekistan and Tajikistan, and was able to get work done along the rural Pamir Highway without wasting a minute in the major cities to find a local carrier or top up on my local SIM,” he added.

There’s one other option that may be handy for your group.

Frank Harrison, regional security director at the travel risk-management company World Travel Protection , says you could get a portable network device like a MiFi . “You can create your own personal hotspot almost anywhere, and you don’t have to use public WiFi networks, which can be risky,” Harrison said in an email. MiFis are powered by one SIM card and will allow multiple people in your group to connect to the internet.

Harrison warns that these devices can get expensive if you run through data credits quickly, and you’ll need to carry a charger or power bank to keep the MiFi device running throughout your trip.

• Election 2024
• Entertainment
• Newsletters
• Photography
• Personal Finance
• AP Investigations
• AP Buyline Personal Finance
• AP Buyline Shopping
• Press Releases
• Israel-Hamas War
• Russia-Ukraine War
• Global elections
• Asia Pacific
• Latin America
• Middle East
• Election Results
• Delegate Tracker
• AP & Elections
• Auto Racing
• 2024 Paris Olympic Games
• Movie reviews
• Book reviews
• Personal finance
• Financial Markets
• Business Highlights
• Financial wellness
• Artificial Intelligence
• Social Media

King Charles III to travel to France for UK ceremonies marking the 80th anniversary of D-Day

FILE - Britain’s King Charles III and Queen Camilla leave The London Clinic in central London, Monday, Jan. 29, 2024. King Charles III plans to travel to France next month for British ceremonies marking the 80th anniversary of the D-Day landings, while skipping the larger international event a few miles away as he continues to be treated for cancer. (AP Photo/Alberto Pezzali, File)

• Copy Link copied

LONDON (AP) — King Charles III plans to travel to France next month for British ceremonies marking the 80th anniversary of the D-Day landings, while skipping the larger international event a few miles away as he continues to be treated for cancer.

Charles and Queen Camilla are expected to attend a ceremony at the British Normandy Memorial at Ver-sur-Mer on June 6, Buckingham Palace said Friday. The Prince of Wales will stand in for the king at the international ceremony at Omaha Beach near Saint-Laurent-sur-Mer, joining heads of state and veterans from around the world in marking the anniversary.

William will also attend the Canadian event at the Juno Beach Centre in Courseulles-sur-Mer. The Princess of Wales, who is also being treated for cancer, is not expected to attend.

Charles has begun a carefully managed return to public facing duties after being sidelined for three months following his cancer diagnosis .

The king signaled his comeback when he visited a cancer treatment center in London on May 1. It was his first formal public engagement since Feb. 6, when Buckingham Palace announced that Charles would take a break from public duties to focus on his treatment for an undisclosed type of cancer.

While doctors are “very encouraged” by the king’s progress, he continues to undergo treatment and his schedule will be adjusted as needed to protect his recovery, the palace has said.