The best international phone plans for travel

Exhausted by the big three's confusing plans and high costs? You're not the only one.

As the major wireless companies boast about their record profits and simultaneously announce price increases, it's clear they've not fully appreciated the needs of today's globally connected consumers.

With over a decade of experience in the wireless industry, I've witnessed the growing divide between exorbitant prices and the actual value offered to customers-especially those seeking international connectivity.

However, the good news is that switching to a carrier that better suits your global lifestyle has never been easier.

Saving you the extensive research, I've thoroughly reviewed 30 alternative carriers and over 100 prepaid phone plans.

To save you time, I have excluded carriers that:

• Only offer unlimited data plans
• Only advertise multi-line prices
• Have confusing phone bills with unexpected fees
• Lure customers with "free" phones
• Constantly try to upsell additional lines
• Bundle plans with unnecessary subscriptions
• Need loads of small print to explain their offers
• Want you to go to a store
• Need a commission-based salesperson
• Reward customer loyalty with increased prices

Understanding the unique demands of international phone users, I've curated a list of the best value plans across all three major networks, tailored to suit varying levels of data consumption and international calling needs.

Whether you're a frequent traveler, have family abroad, or conduct business across borders, the best value phone plan will depend on your phone usage and preferred network. However, there's an international plan waiting for you.

Tello offers the best international phone plan for low data users

Tello 2GB plan for $10/mo

• T-Mobile 5G & 4G LTE network
• Unlimited talk and text with 2GB data
• Instant online activation

5

Read our Tello review

See at Tello

Tello makes wireless affordable and flexible, so you're never locked into contracts or overpaying for services you don't need.

All plans include free international calls to 60+ countries, including Canada and Mexico. You also get flexible data options, whether you need just a little or unlimited access.

Unlike traditional carriers, Tello lets you customize your own plan, so you're only paying for the talk, text, and data you actually use. All Tello plans support mobile hotspot, with unlimited plans limited to 5GB, though family plan discounts aren't available. Each line is billed separately, but with Tello's pricing, multi-line savings aren't a necessity.

Switching is quick and seamless-eSIM activation lets you get started in minutes, or you can order a SIM card if needed.

I compared Tello to Boost Mobile, Ultra Mobile, and Metro by T-Mobile. Boost Mobile offers low prices but is known for hidden fees and inconsistent customer support. Ultra Mobile is a strong pick for international calls but is pricier for the same data. Metro by T-Mobile charges more and often requires an in-store visit.

If you want low-cost, flexible service with no commitments, Tello is a standout choice.

• Plans tailored to you – Choose exactly what you need.
• No contracts, no hidden fees – Transparent pricing with no surprises.
• Fast, simple setup – Activate instantly with eSIM or get a SIM card shipped to you.

Visible offers the best unlimited data plan

Visible unlimited plan for $25/mo

• Verizon 5G & 4G LTE network
• Unlimited talk, text and data
• Instant online activation

3.4

Read our Visible review

See at Visible

Tired of complicated phone plans? Visible makes unlimited data simple and affordable with just two straightforward options, both with no contracts, no hidden fees, and no surprises.

For $25/month, you get unlimited talk, text, and data, plus mobile hotspot access at speeds of 5–10 Mbps. Upgrade to Visible+, and you'll get 50GB of premium data and access to Verizon's 5G Ultra Wideband network for even faster speeds.

Switching is easy. With eSIM activation, you can start using your plan in minutes, no waiting for a SIM card. The Visible+ plan also comes with free international calling to 30+ countries and texting to over 200 destinations, making it ideal for those who stay connected globally.

Although Visible doesn't offer multi-line discounts, its low-cost pricing makes it a great deal for single-line users. Just keep in mind that customer service is online-only.

I compared Visible to Tracfone, Xfinity Mobile, and Spectrum Mobile. Tracfone is cheap but limits data speeds, making it less ideal for heavy users. Xfinity Mobile and Spectrum Mobile have good rates, but require their respective internet services to sign up.

For unlimited data without contracts or hidden fees, Visible is a top choice.

• Simple, unlimited plans – No contracts, no unexpected costs-just clear, predictable pricing.
• Built-in perks – Mobile hotspot access included, plus free international calling & texting on Visible+.
• Instant activation – Switch in minutes with eSIM, or request a physical SIM card.

Total Wireless offers the best phone plan with Verizon coverage

Total Wireless unlimited plan for $50/mo

• Verizon 5G & 4G LTE network
• Unlimited talk, text and data
• Instant online activation

4

Read our Total Wireless review

See at Total Wireless

Total Wireless provides affordable, contract-free plans that let you access Verizon's network without the premium cost.

Each plan includes unlimited talk and text, high-speed data options, and mobile hotspot usage up to 15GB on select plans.

For those who need international calling, Total Wireless offers free calls to 85+ countries and roaming in Canada and Mexico, making it ideal for frequent travelers.

With no long-term contracts or hidden fees, you can easily switch or adjust your plan online whenever needed.

I reviewed Tracfone, Xfinity Mobile, and Spectrum Mobile and found limitations. Tracfone is cheaper but limits data speeds. Xfinity Mobile and Spectrum Mobile offer good rates, but require home internet service.

For flexible, affordable coverage with premium network access, Total Wireless is a top pick.

• Same Verizon coverage, lower price – No need to overpay for great service.
• Hotspot and international calling included – Up to 15GB of hotspot data on some plans, plus free roaming & calls to 85+ countries.
• Contract-free convenience – Adjust or switch your plan anytime with easy online management.

Tello offers the best phone plan with T-Mobile coverage

Tello unlimited plan for $25/mo

• T-Mobile 5G & 4G LTE network
• Unlimited talk, text and data
• Instant online activation

5

Read our Tello review

See at Tello

Tello offers a budget-friendly alternative to expensive wireless carriers, giving you the flexibility to pay only for what you need.

All plans include free international calls to 60+ countries, including Canada and Mexico, plus a variety of data options that work for both light users and those who need more high-speed access.

Tello's build-your-own plan approach means you decide how much talk, text, and data you get-so you're never stuck overpaying for services you don't use. All plans includes mobile hotspot access, with a 5GB limit on unlimited plans, but there are no multi-line discounts. However, with pricing this low, even individual plans remain highly affordable.

Switching is quick and effortless. With eSIM activation you can start using your new plan immediately, or you can order a physical SIM if needed.

I compared Boost Mobile, Ultra Mobile, and Metro by T-Mobile. Boost Mobile offers low-cost plans but sneaks in hidden fees. Ultra Mobile is great for international calling but is pricier. Metro by T-Mobile has higher costs and requires an in-store visit for activation.

For a truly flexible, affordable, and commitment-free wireless plan, Tello is an unbeatable choice.

• No wasted money on unnecessary features – Create a plan that fits your needs, with adjustable talk, text, and data options.
• No contracts, no surprises – Tello's transparent pricing means no hidden fees or long-term commitments.
• Fast and easy activation – eSIM-compatible devices can start service in minutes, or you can receive a SIM card in the mail for traditional setup.

Red Pocket offers the best phone plan with AT&T coverage

Red Pocket unlimited plan for $30/mo

• AT&T 5G & 4G LTE network
• Unlimited talk, text and data
• Instant online activation

4

Read our Red Pocket review

See at Red Pocket

Red Pocket Mobile delivers affordable unlimited plans on the AT&T network, offering multi-line savings and international perks at no extra charge.

Families can save big with a $20 discount per extra line, reducing overall costs significantly. While there's a setup fee, the total savings make it a budget-friendly alternative.

With unlimited talk and text, up to 30GB of high-speed data, and hotspot access included, Red Pocket ensures transparent pricing with no hidden fees.

For international users, free calling to 80+ countries and roaming in Mexico and Canada make Red Pocket an excellent choice for travelers. eSIM users can also try the service with a 7-day money-back guarantee.

I compared other AT&T-based budget carriers, including Cricket Wireless, which costs more despite being AT&T's prepaid brand, H2O Wireless, which includes international calling but lacks overall value, and Good2Go Mobile, which has affordable pricing but limited plan options.

For families looking for an affordable, flexible, and feature-rich unlimited plan, Red Pocket Mobile is a top recommendation.

• Big savings for families – $20 off per extra line, making it one of the cheapest multi-line plans.
• International perks included – Free calls to 80+ countries and free roaming in Mexico & Canada.
• No hidden fees & easy sign-up – Transparent pricing and a 7-day eSIM money-back guarantee.

Big wireless: Big prices, big profits, little value

The average phone bill is $155 per month, and while 38 million Americans live in poverty, the government cut funding to the Affordable Connectivity Program, which was assisting 22 million low-income families with subsidized internet and cell phone service.

At the same time, the big three spent January celebrating record profits and multi-billion dollar shareholder dividend payouts while simultaneously announcing yet more price hikes.

So, big wireless continues to raise prices, and the government drops assistance to those in need. However, you do have options, so the power is in your hands.

Take back control of your phone bill

A big wireless unlimited plan will cost you $1,600 extra over the next 3 years compared to getting the same service from an MVNO.

A big wireless unlimited data plan will cost you $2,700 over the next 3 years for just 1 line. In comparison, unlimited plans from a low-cost carrier over the same period would cost only $900.

So, buying directly from Verizon, T-Mobile, or AT&T is now 3 times more expensive for the same coverage. This does not include fees and taxes or future price hikes.

Why is it so much more expensive to buy the same service directly?

With big wireless, you are paying for multi-billion dollar ad campaigns, stadium sponsorships, and thousands of stores with commission-based salespeople - all these expenses get passed onto you to maximize profits and dividend payouts.

With this next generation of MVNOs, you switch online and just pay for phone service.

Cut your phone bill, not your coverage

These low-cost carriers offer a great alternative with transparent pricing, a range of data plans to customize to your needs, and more highly rated customer service.

You can keep your phone, number, coverage, and most importantly, your money!

Even better, it's quick and easy. You can complete the entire switching process online in minutes with an eSIM-compatible phone.

So, now is the time to re-evaluate your options, take back control of your phone bill, and free yourself from price hikes forever!

Compare the cheapest international cell phone plans

Check out our international cell phone comparison to help find the best deal.

How to choose the best value carrier for international plans

• Network preference: Good network coverage is essential if you're looking for an international phone plan, ensuring you stay connected no matter where you are in the world. MVNOs provide access to the same 5G & 4G LTE networks as the major providers, so it's important to choose an MVNO that operates on your preferred network.
• Data allowance: Unlimited data plans might seem necessary if you're an international traveler or those with loved ones abroad, but with Wi-Fi increasingly available worldwide, the average monthly cellular data use is around 10GB. However, if you're opting for unlimited, remember that there may be caps on high-speed data.
• Hotspot data: Hotspot capability can be invaluable in providing internet access for laptops or tablets when abroad. While most carriers support hotspot use, the data allowance varies. Some also offer data-only plans, ensuring you can stay connected even without Wi-Fi.
• Number of lines: Big wireless providers often advertise lower prices for bundling multiple lines, but MVNOs offer competitive pricing even for single lines, which is ideal if you're an individual traveler. Additionally, many offer discounts for adding more lines, perfect for families or groups traveling abroad.
• Phone options: MVNOs support bringing your own device, so you don't have to pay out for a new phone you don't need. However, if you're in the market for a new device, many MVNOs provide affordable options with flexible financing.
• International calling: International calling options will vary with each carrier. Make sure to check the calls are included when calling from outside of the US, not just from inside the US to other international countries.
• International roaming: Roaming availability varies greatly among MVNOs. Some include certain countries, others offer it at an additional cost, and some low-cost carriers don't offer this option at all.

Check out our cell phone plan comparison to ensure you find the best deal.

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International phone plans FAQs

Recap: What is the best international plan for travel?

The big three are signaling their intention to continue raising prices, a strategy seemingly aimed more at boosting their bottom lines in a competitive market than at responding to any real economic pressures.

For those facing the challenge of managing household expenses and the rising costs of essentials, there's good news regarding mobile bills.

You can still access the same quality cell phone service at a significantly lower cost, potentially saving you up to $600 annually per line on an international phone plan.

I recommend checking out our cell phone plan comparison to find the best plan for your international needs.

How I choose the best carriers and plans

To select the best carriers and plans, I evaluated over 30 different carriers.

I rate carriers in five categories, with a star rating from 1-5, with 5 stars being the best. I then calculate the overall star rating using the five categories:

1. Value for money: I compare carriers based on price, features, benefits, and promotions. It's not just about the lowest price but getting the most bang for your buck.
2. Coverage: I look at network 5G and 4G LTE coverage across the US. I use coverage maps to determine service availability and data speeds in urban, suburban, and rural locations.
3. Customer experience: I take into account items such as current user experience, website and app usability, ease of switching, and customer service in terms of availability, channels, and satisfaction ratings.
4. Transparency: I assess whether carrier pricing is clear and straightforward. I examine the fine print to check for hidden fees, confusing terms or conditions, and misleading offers to ensure upfront, honest prices and advertising.
5. Range of choice: I evaluate the diversity of plan options to determine if they fit the individual needs of all customers.

Read more about our carrier ratings methodology and our editorial process.

I regularly update the content so that we're always recommending the latest and best value plans and do my best to ensure the information is accurate.