Staying connected while traveling is essential, especially for professional digital nomads who need to be reachable for work. There are many options for getting cell service abroad and each depends on your lifestyle, budget, and preferences. Read on to learn more about the options for digital nomads and see how you ca avoid roaming fees. There are four main options for digital nomads to get cell service abroad:
- Purchasing an International Data Plan on Your Phone Line
- Buying a Local SIM Card
- Pairing a Local SIM Card with a VoIP Number
- Using dual SIMs with an International eSIM#option4
I personally have tried all four and tend to alternate between #1 and #4 as keeping the same phone number I’ve had since I was thirteen is important to me. I don’t want to miss any calls/texts from family and friends when I’m abroad. I do also always have a VoIP number I keep for work calls so I can have some separation between work and personal life. Using International Data and paying the roaming fees is easiest when I’m feeling extra lazy, but if I care to save $50 or so I usually use option #4.
Read on to learn about all the different ways to hack your phone to get the cheapest or easiest cell service abroad
Option 1: Using an International Data Plan on Your American Phone Plan
Many American phone carriers offer international data plans, making it convenient to use your existing phone number and plan while abroad. Here’s a breakdown of average prices for international plans from some major providers:
- Verizon: Verizon’s TravelPass costs $10 per day per device in over 185 countries. Alternatively, they offer a monthly plan for $100, providing 5GB of data in over 210 countries.
- AT&T: AT&T’s International Day Pass is $10 per day, offering unlimited talk, text, and data in over 200 countries. They will only charge you for a maximum of 10 days out of a month, so if your trip lasts longer than 10 days, the most you will be charged is $100. If you’re abroad for months, this plan is essentially an extra $100/month on top of your regular phone plan.
- T-Mobile: T-Mobile’s Magenta and Magenta MAX plans include international data at no extra cost in over 210 countries, but the data speeds are limited to 2G unless you purchase a higher-speed data pass.
- Sprint (now part of T-Mobile): Sprint’s Global Roaming offers free basic data and text in over 200 countries, with higher-speed data passes available for $5 or $10 per day.
Option 2: Purchasing a Local SIM Card
Buying a local SIM card in the country you’re visiting is often the most cost-effective option. Local SIM cards typically offer better rates and data packages tailored to the region. Here’s how to go about it:
- Research local providers: Before you arrive, research the major telecom providers in your destination country.
- Purchase upon arrival: Local SIM cards are usually available at airports, convenience stores, or dedicated telecom shops.
- Activate and use: Insert the SIM card into your phone, follow the activation instructions, and you’re good to go.
Estimated Costs:
- Europe: $10-$30 for 5-10GB of data.
- Asia: $5-$20 for 10-20GB of data.
- South America: $10-$25 for 5-10GB of data.
Option 3: Pairing a Local SIM Card + VOIP Number
If you want to go the cheapest route but still have a consistent phone number, you can buy a local SIM and pair it with a VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) number. A VoIP number is a telephone number that enables voice communication over the internet rather than traditional phone lines. This allows you to use it with any data plab. Costs for VoIP numbers vary, typically ranging from $10 to $50 per month, depending on the provider and the features included.
MAJOR CON: The major con to this method, and the reason I don’t do it myself, is because a lot of programs do not like VoIP numbers. It is easy for someone to distinguish whether you have a regular number or a VoIP number. For example, you often cannot use a VoIP number with your bank account. Most bank accounts require you to have a number to receive two-factor authentication codes. This essentially means you will be locked out of your bank account, and any other services requiring two-factor authentication, if you use this method.
Option 4: Using a Dual SIM with an International eSIM Provider
(My Go-To method)
For those with dual SIM phones, using an international eSIM provider can be a flexible and convenient solution. eSIMs are digital SIM cards that can be activated remotely, making them ideal for frequent travelers. Companies like Airalo, Nomad, and Holafly are all eSIM providers for digital nomads. You can also use esims.com to find the best package for your destination.
Estimated Costs with Airalo (affiliate link):
- Europe: $20 for 5GB of data valid for 30 days.
- Asia: $15 for 3GB of data valid for 30 days.
- South America: $25 for 5GB of data valid for 30 days.
If you do choose Airalo, you can use code JULIE1410 for $3 off your first eSIM.
If you choose this option, MAKE SURE to read “How to set up an eSIM with your phone.” Otherwise, your provider will likely still charge you roaming fees.
Conclusion
Choosing the right cell service option for your travels depends on your specific needs and travel patterns. If convenience is key and cost is not a major concern, international plans from your American carrier might be best, especially for more infrequent travels. For those looking for the best budget option and get more data, purchasing local SIM cards may be the best route. For long-term nomads, I recommend using the eSIM method which offers the most hassle free yet affordable option.
Stay connected, stay productive, and enjoy your travels as a digital nomad!