Key takeaways
- Check your plan’s international options before you travel; some include roaming, others charge daily or per-use fees.
- A travel eSIM or local SIM can be cheaper for data-heavy trips, if your phone is unlocked and supports it.
- If you don’t want to roam, turn off data roaming and use Wi-Fi.
- Download offline maps, entertainment and travel documents before you leave.
- Look up the local emergency number for each country you visit.
Roaming charges have caught out plenty of travelers. Phones are usually set up to keep working abroad, and that convenience can be expensive if your plan doesn’t include international use. Here’s how to plan ahead.
Step 1: Check your current plan
Before you go, find out:
- Whether your plan includes international roaming, and in which countries.
- Whether roaming is charged per day, per use or included.
- What happens to data speeds abroad; some plans slow international data.
- Whether incoming calls and texts are charged.
Your carrier’s website or app usually lists international options, and many carriers offer short-term travel passes.
Step 2: Compare your options
| Option | Good for | Watch out for |
|---|---|---|
| Your carrier’s roaming or travel pass | Convenience, keeping your number | Daily fees can add up on long trips |
| Travel eSIM | Data-heavy trips, multiple countries | Phone must support eSIM and be unlocked |
| Local SIM card | Long stays in one country | Phone must be unlocked; new local number |
| Wi-Fi only | Light use, short trips | No connection away from Wi-Fi |
Our eSIM guide explains how travel eSIMs work.
Step 3: Set up your phone before you leave
- Turn off data roaming in settings if you don’t plan to roam.
- Enable Wi-Fi calling if your carrier supports it abroad.
- Download offline maps, music, shows and boarding passes over Wi-Fi.
- Set apps to update on Wi-Fi only.
- Turn on usage alerts so you know how much data you’re using. Our guide to mobile data use has more tips.
Quick tip: Turn on airplane mode as you board, then switch on Wi-Fi only. You’ll stay connected through Wi-Fi without your phone quietly roaming in the background.
Step 4: Stay safe while traveling
- Public Wi-Fi in airports and hotels is convenient; our guide to public Wi-Fi explains how to use it sensibly.
- Look up the local emergency number for each country you visit, and save it in your phone.
- Carry a charger and power bank, since maps and translation apps drain batteries quickly.
When you get home
Check your next bill for unexpected roaming charges. If something looks wrong, contact your carrier promptly with the dates you were away.
FAQ
Will I be charged for incoming calls abroad?
It depends on your plan. Some roaming plans charge for incoming calls and texts as well as outgoing ones. Check with your carrier.
Is Wi-Fi calling free abroad?
Wi-Fi calling to US numbers is often included with your plan, but rules vary by carrier and destination. Check your carrier’s international Wi-Fi calling policy.
How do I know if my phone is unlocked?
Check your phone’s settings or ask your carrier. An unlocked phone can use other carriers’ SIMs and eSIMs, which matters if you want a local plan.
What about cruises and flights?
Phones can connect to onboard networks at sea or in the air, which are often charged at much higher rates. Use airplane mode and the ship’s or airline’s Wi-Fi package if you need to connect.
This guide is general information. Plans, prices and program rules change, so check the details with your provider and official sources such as the FCC and FTC before you decide.