Best International Phone Plans for Travelers in 2025
Staying connected while traveling abroad is essential—whether it’s for navigation, keeping in touch, working remotely, or streaming your favorite content. Fortunately, in 2025, a wide range of phone plans and eSIM services for international travel make it easier than ever to stay online globally. From traditional mobile carriers to cutting-edge digital SIM providers, this guide breaks down the top international phone plans for travelers.
Top International Phone Plans from Major Carriers
1. Google Fi Wireless Flexible
Google Fi remains one of the best choices for travelers thanks to its automatic international data access in over 200 countries. At just $20/month plus $10 per GB of data, it offers great flexibility with no need to switch SIMs when traveling. It supports eSIM on most devices and offers calls to 50+ destinations at no extra charge. It’s an excellent pick for digital nomads and frequent flyers.
Learn more on Google Fi’s official site
2. T-Mobile Go5G Plus
T-Mobile’s Go5G Plus plan is priced at $90/month with AutoPay and delivers unlimited data and texting in over 215 countries and destinations. You get 5GB of high-speed data per billing cycle while abroad. After that, data speeds are reduced, but still usable for maps, email, and messaging.
Explore T-Mobile’s Go5G options
3. Verizon Unlimited Ultimate
Verizon’s top-tier Unlimited Ultimate plan includes international usage in over 220 countries. It features unlimited data, texting, and calling abroad, and even inflight and cruise ship connectivity options. This is ideal for high-usage travelers who want seamless roaming globally.
Check out Verizon’s international plans
4. AT&T International Day Pass
AT&T’s International Day Pass allows you to use your domestic plan abroad for $10/day per line in over 210 countries. It’s not ideal for long trips, but perfect for short vacations or business trips without needing a new plan.
See AT&T International Day Pass details
5. Fonus Mobile
Fonus is a lesser-known but incredibly attractive option. For $30/month, it offers unlimited calls, texts, and data in over 100 countries. Operating on AT&T’s U.S. network, it supports 5G globally and offers a streamlined, app-based management system.
Best eSIM Options for Global Travelers
1. Nomad
Nomad offers prepaid global and regional eSIM data plans, ideal for travelers who rely on apps like WhatsApp and Messenger. There’s no need for physical SIM cards, and plans start at just a few dollars for select countries.
2. aloSIM
aloSIM provides eSIM data plans for over 170 countries, offering a pay-as-you-go model. You can top up with data credits anytime. This is a great budget-friendly option for light users who just need basic connectivity.
Read about aloSIM’s travel offer
3. Airalo
Airalo is one of the most popular eSIM services for global travelers, with excellent regional and global plans at competitive prices. They even offer eSIMs for specific continents like Asia, Europe, and Latin America.
Budget-Friendly Carrier Alternatives
1. Mint Mobile
Mint Mobile offers low-cost plans from $15 to $40/month. While it doesn’t include international roaming by default, you can purchase roaming credits. It’s a great choice for U.S.-based travelers looking for savings and flexibility.
2. Visible by Verizon
Visible provides unlimited talk, text, and data starting at $20/month. While international roaming is limited, it’s excellent for travelers who need strong U.S. coverage and Wi-Fi calling abroad.
3. TextNow
TextNow is a free Wi-Fi-based calling and texting app with paid upgrades for mobile data. Great for international travelers who primarily use Wi-Fi and want a U.S. number for communication.
Comparison Table with Key Metrics
| Plan | Price / Month | International Coverage (Countries) | High‑Speed Data Included Abroad | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Google Fi Wireless | $20 + $10/GB | 200+ | ✓ | Can get expensive |
| T-Mobile Go5G Plus | $90 Autopay | 215+ | 5 GB high-speed | Limited hot spots |
| Verizon Unlimited Ultimate | ~$90/month | 220+ | Unlimited | Premium price tier |
| Fonus Mobile | $30 | 100+ | Unlimited | VoIP-based calling only |
| Nomad eSIM (Global) | Region–based | 100+ | Data only | No voice/text outside Wi‑Fi |
| Mint Mobile | $20–$40 | Canada/Mexico add-ons | Varies | Roaming paid separately |
| Airalo eSIM (Asia, etc.) | Varies by region | 100+ | Data-only | Separate eSIM for each region |
✅ Top Tips for Choosing the Right International Phone Plan
1. Know Your Travel Duration
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Short Trip (1–2 weeks): Opt for eSIMs like Airalo, Nomad, or aloSIM. They’re easy, cheap, and require no contract.
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Long-Term (1–12 months): Go for Fonus, Google Fi, or T-Mobile Go5G Plus with international support.
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Frequent Flyers: Use Google Fi or Verizon Unlimited Ultimate for seamless roaming across countries.
2. Check eSIM Compatibility
Not all phones support eSIM. Make sure yours does:
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✅ eSIM ready: iPhone XS and newer, Pixel 3 and newer, Samsung Galaxy S20 and newer
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❌ No eSIM support: Older Androids, basic models
3. Compare Actual Coverage
Before you buy:
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Check coverage maps for your destination(s)
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Use T-Mobile’s International Map or Airalo’s Region Lists
4. Use Wi-Fi Where Possible
Even with unlimited plans, hotspot data or video streaming might be throttled. Download maps, shows, and apps before leaving.
5. Avoid Surprise Roaming Fees
Even some “unlimited” plans limit international data:
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T-Mobile caps high-speed abroad at 5 GB
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Verizon TravelPass charges $10/day unless you’re on Ultimate plan
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Read the fine print
6. Download Necessary Apps
Before traveling, install:
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Your carrier’s app (for data tracking)
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WhatsApp, Google Voice, or Skype for free international calls over Wi-Fi
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Speedtest.net to check mobile network quality abroad
7. Backup Your Existing Number
Using an eSIM or a different SIM might make your primary number unreachable. Set up:
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Google Voice forwarding
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WhatsApp with your primary number, but running on data-only eSIM
❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: What’s the cheapest way to get data abroad for 1–2 weeks?
A: Use an eSIM like Airalo, Nomad, or aloSIM, starting as low as $4.50 for 1 GB. No shipping, no SIM swap—activate in minutes.
Q2: Can I keep my existing number while using a foreign SIM or eSIM?
A: Yes! Most modern phones support dual SIM (1 physical + 1 eSIM). Keep your local number active while using data from an international plan.
Q3: What’s the best plan for remote workers and digital nomads?
A: Fonus ($30/month) offers unlimited global data, calls, and texts over AT&T and partner networks—great for long-term travel.
Other good options: Google Fi, T-Mobile Go5G Plus.
Q4: Will I get 5G speed abroad?
A: Usually not. Most international roaming limits you to 3G/4G, or capped 5G at slower speeds. Always check the carrier’s fair use policies.
Q5: Do I need to cancel my eSIM after the trip?
A: No, but to save space and battery, you can delete or deactivate the eSIM from your phone settings.
Q6: Which eSIM is best for multiple countries?
A: Use a regional or global eSIM (e.g. from Nomad or Airalo):
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Asia: Nomad’s Asia plan
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Europe: Airalo’s Eurolink
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Global: Airalo Discover+ or Nomad Global
Q7: Can I make calls and send SMS with eSIMs?
A: Most data-only eSIMs do not support voice/SMS. Use VoIP apps (WhatsApp, Skype, Messenger) over the internet.
Q8: Are there free international roaming plans?
A: Not exactly. Some plans like T-Mobile Magenta Max offer included global data, but speeds are limited. Truly unlimited high-speed abroad typically costs extra.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re traveling for leisure, work, or adventure, having the right international phone plan in 2025 makes all the difference. From premium plans by Google Fi and Verizon to flexible eSIMs by Nomad and Airalo, there’s an option for every budget and need.
Before you fly, review coverage maps, test compatibility with your device, and look for hidden roaming fees. For extended stays, eSIMs are increasingly the smartest and cheapest way to stay connected.