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If you’re always on the move—jetting off to Europe, hopping between islands in the Caribbean, or living your best digital nomad life in Asia—you need a phone plan that won’t cost a fortune in roaming fees.
International roaming charges can add up fast, and the last thing you want is to come home to a bill that makes your wallet cry (trust me, I’ve done it ).
So, what’s the best way to stay connected while traveling?
Let’s break it down in the simplest way possible!
Why You Need an International Phone Plan
Let me paint a picture for you…
You just landed in Paris, excited to explore, and you need to book an Uber to your hotel. But—your phone has no service.
Now you’re stuck at the airport, trying to find Wi-Fi while dragging your suitcase around. Or imagine you’re in Tokyo, trying to navigate the subway system, but Google Maps won’t load because you have no data.
Not fun, right?
Trust me, if you travel out of the country a lot, it is worth it to have a phone plan that works in your favor.
What You Need in an International Phone Plan
Before picking a plan, consider these key factors:
- Data Usage – Do you stream, video call, or rely on Google Maps 24/7?
- Calling & Texting – Need unlimited international calls or just some quick texts?
- Destinations – Do you mostly travel to Canada & Mexico or all over the world?
- Trip Length – Are you a weekend traveler or a months-long explorer?
- Budget – Do you prefer all-inclusive plans or cheaper pay-as-you-go options?
Best International Phone Plans by Major U.S. Carriers
T-Mobile – Best for Frequent Travelers (My Pick!)
I personally have the Go5G Plus plan, and I love it.
No matter how much I travel, I always have data, which makes it perfect for using Google Maps, calling Ubers, and staying connected without stress. I’ve landed in random countries before and had service WITHIN MINUTES after I turned off airplane mode—it’s a lifesaver!
If you travel a lot, this plan is a game-changer.
5GB high-speed data in 215+ countries (then slowed down)
Unlimited texting and calls for $0.25 per minute
Wi-Fi calling back to the U.S. is free
Canada & Mexico roaming included
They also offer International Passes if you need extra high-speed data for short trips or if you run out of your 5GB on a longer trip (been there!).
Check T-Mobile’s latest international plans
Verizon – Best for Short Trips
Verizon’s TravelPass is ideal for those who only travel occasionally.
Use your domestic plan in 210+ countries
$12 per day in most countries ($6/day in Canada & Mexico)
5GB of high-speed data per day (then slowed down)
For longer trips, they offer a $100 International Monthly Plan with 20GB of high-speed data (then slowed down) and unlimited texting.
Check Verizon’s latest international plans
AT&T – Best for Long Stays
AT&T’s International Day Pass is great for extended travelers because charges stop after 10 days per billing cycle.
$12 per day
Use your domestic plan’s data, talk, and text abroad
Free Canada & Mexico roaming with unlimited plans
Check AT&T’s latest international plans
Best International Phone Plans by MVNOs (Smaller Carriers)
Google Fi – Best for Global Coverage
Google Fi’s Unlimited Plus plan is a dream for world travelers.
Unlimited data in 200+ countries
Texts are free, calls are $0.20 per minute
Wi-Fi calling to the U.S. is free
Only pay for what you use on the Flexible plan ($10 per GB)
Check Google Fi’s latest international plans
US Mobile – Best Budget Plan
US Mobile’s Unlimited Premium Plan includes international roaming in 180+ countries.
Up to 20GB of international data
200 minutes of calls & 250 texts included
Lower monthly cost compared to major carriers
Check US Mobile’s latest international plans
Alternative: International eSIMs
If you just need data (and don’t want to deal with SIM cards), eSIMs are a fantastic option.
Best eSIM Providers for Travel
- Airalo – Affordable global coverage
- Holafly – Unlimited data in many destinations
- Nomad – Flexible data plans ️
- aloSIM – Budget-friendly options
Check Airalo for travel eSIMs
So, Which Plan Should You Pick?
- Frequent global travelers: Google Fi or T-Mobile Go5G Plus (my personal favorite!)
- Short trips abroad: Verizon TravelPass or AT&T International Day Pass
- Long stays: AT&T’s capped International Day Pass or Verizon’s Monthly Plan
- Budget-friendly option: US Mobile or an eSIM provider
Seriously, you don’t want to be that person desperately searching for Wi-Fi in a foreign airport or trying to borrow someone’s phone to call a taxi. Been there done that, don’t recommend it!
Pick a solid international plan, and travel stress-free!
Already have one you like? I’d love to know in the comments.
Tyler Fox
Tyler is our Managing Editor and Writer. After spending years reading, writing, and obsessing over travel (while taking trips as often as possible of course!), he aims to give readers the best and most balanced experience possible when exploring the site.
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