Question: what phone to use in europe

Using a European SIM Card by Rick Steves Using a European SIM Card
Using a European SIM Card
By Rick Steves
 You'll need either a European phone or an unlocked phone in order for a European SIM card to work (some phones are electronically "locked" so you can't switch SIM cards). Check with your carrier — it's possible the phone you have is already unlocked, as this feature is becoming more common in newer models. Otherwise, you can try asking your provider if they'll unlock it for you. Remember that as long as you have a European SIM in your own phone, you won't be reachable at your regular US number. If it's not possible to unlock your phone, you can buy an unlocked phone either before your trip or at your destination (it's around $40 for a basic unlocked phone). It's also possible to buy an inexpensive mobile phone in Europe that already comes with a SIM card. While these phones are generally locked to work with just one provider (meaning you couldn't switch to another European SIM if traveling to other countries), they may be even cheaper ($20 or less, and often with enough prepaid calling credit to make the phone itself virtually free). If shopping for a phone in Europe, use the European term "mobile" (pronounce it the way Brits do — rhymes with "smile") or "handy" (common in German-speaking areas). Finally, you may already have an old, unused mobile phone in a drawer somewhere. It's probably locked, but your provider may be willing to send you a code to unlock it.

Using a European SIM Card by Rick Steves

Using a European SIM Card
Using a European SIM Card
By Rick Steves

You'll need either a European phone or an unlocked phone in order for a European SIM card to work (some phones are electronically "locked" so you can't switch SIM cards). Check with your carrier — it's possible the phone you have is already unlocked, as this feature is becoming more common in newer models. Otherwise, you can try asking your provider if they'll unlock it for you. Remember that as long as you have a European SIM in your own phone, you won't be reachable at your regular US number. If it's not possible to unlock your phone, you can buy an unlocked phone either before your trip or at your destination (it's around $40 for a basic unlocked phone). It's also possible to buy an inexpensive mobile phone in Europe that already comes with a SIM card. While these phones are generally locked to work with just one provider (meaning you couldn't switch to another European SIM if traveling to other countries), they may be even cheaper ($20 or less, and often with enough prepaid calling credit to make the phone itself virtually free). If shopping for a phone in Europe, use the European term "mobile" (pronounce it the way Brits do — rhymes with "smile") or "handy" (common in German-speaking areas). Finally, you may already have an old, unused mobile phone in a drawer somewhere. It's probably locked, but your provider may be willing to send you a code to unlock it.

Buying the Right GSM Cellular Phone for Europe How to Buy a Cell Phone in Europe and Avoid Roaming Charges
How to Buy a Cell Phone in Europe and Avoid Roaming Charges
Unlocked GSM Phones and SIM Cards
Buying Ahead of Time
Where to Get Them
 Buying the Right GSM Cellular Phone for Europe
Destinations Europe
How to Buy a Cell Phone in Europe and Avoid Roaming Charges
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James Martin
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James Martin is a travel writer and photographer who writes, photographs, and edits stories about western Europe. Tripsavvy's Editorial Guidelines
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Updated 06/24/19
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Europe has adopted GSM ( Global System for Mobile Communications) as its mobile communications standard unlike the United States, which left companies to create their own standards, resulting in largely incompatible networks. If you're traveling to Europe or most Asian countries and want to use a cellular phone but also wish to avoid roaming charges, the GSM standard makes it easy to buy a phone that works, but there are some things you need to know about getting an unlocked version that works abroad. Because you need a device that can allow for dual-band reception on a GSM and Subscriber Identity Module (SIM) card and most phones sold in the United States are "locked" into one carrier and SIM card, you'll need to purchase an unlocked cell phone if you hope to get reception in Europe. Unlocked GSM Phones and SIM Cards
To make cell phone calls in Europe you'll need an unlocked dual-band GSM phone and a SIM card. The countries of Europe use the dual-band frequencies of 900 to 1800 while America primarily uses 850 to 1900. When shopping for an unlocked GSM phone, you'll want a tri-band 900/1800/1900 (or 850/1800/1900) or a quad-band 850-900-1800-1900 if you intend to use it in the U.S. as well as in Europe. You may use a tri-band 850-1800-1900 unlocked cell phone in Europe, but you'll be giving up coverage in the 900 band, which is the most common band for international cell phone communications. Many companies in the US sell locked cell phones which provide only one SIM card option for use with each phone linked to one particular carrier, which means you won't be able to use these abroad. Unlocked cell phones, on the other hand, are what you need as they allow the use of any SIM card, as long as the frequency capabilities are correct.

Buying the Right GSM Cellular Phone for Europe

How to Buy a Cell Phone in Europe and Avoid Roaming Charges
How to Buy a Cell Phone in Europe and Avoid Roaming Charges
Unlocked GSM Phones and SIM Cards
Buying Ahead of Time
Where to Get Them

Using a European SIM Card by Rick Steves Using a European SIM Card
Using a European SIM Card
By Rick Steves
 It's also possible to buy an inexpensive mobile phone in Europe that already comes with a SIM card. While these phones are generally locked to work with just one provider (meaning you couldn't switch to another European SIM if traveling to other countries), they may be even cheaper ($20 or less, and often with enough prepaid calling credit to make the phone itself virtually free). If shopping for a phone in Europe, use the European term "mobile" (pronounce it the way Brits do — rhymes with "smile") or "handy" (common in German-speaking areas). Finally, you may already have an old, unused mobile phone in a drawer somewhere. It's probably locked, but your provider may be willing to send you a code to unlock it. 2. Shop around for a SIM card. SIM cards are sold in Europe at mobile-phone shops, department-store electronics counters, some newsstands, and even at vending machines. Costing about $5–10, they usually include about that much prepaid calling credit, with no contract and no commitment. Certain brands — including Lebara — are reliable and provide cheap international calls, including to the US.

It's also possible to buy an inexpensive mobile phone in Europe that already comes with a SIM card. While these phones are generally locked to work with just one provider (meaning you couldn't switch to another European SIM if traveling to other countries), they may be even cheaper ($20 or less, and often with enough prepaid calling credit to make the phone itself virtually free). If shopping for a phone in Europe, use the European term "mobile" (pronounce it the way Brits do — rhymes with "smile") or "handy" (common in German-speaking areas). Finally, you may already have an old, unused mobile phone in a drawer somewhere. It's probably locked, but your provider may be willing to send you a code to unlock it. 2. Shop around for a SIM card. SIM cards are sold in Europe at mobile-phone shops, department-store electronics counters, some newsstands, and even at vending machines. Costing about $5–10, they usually include about that much prepaid calling credit, with no contract and no commitment. Certain brands — including Lebara — are reliable and provide cheap international calls, including to the US.

Buying the Right GSM Cellular Phone for Europe How to Buy a Cell Phone in Europe and Avoid Roaming Charges
How to Buy a Cell Phone in Europe and Avoid Roaming Charges
Unlocked GSM Phones and SIM Cards
Buying Ahead of Time
Where to Get Them
 The countries of Europe use the dual-band frequencies of 900 to 1800 while America primarily uses 850 to 1900. When shopping for an unlocked GSM phone, you'll want a tri-band 900/1800/1900 (or 850/1800/1900) or a quad-band 850-900-1800-1900 if you intend to use it in the U.S. as well as in Europe. You may use a tri-band 850-1800-1900 unlocked cell phone in Europe, but you'll be giving up coverage in the 900 band, which is the most common band for international cell phone communications. Many companies in the US sell locked cell phones which provide only one SIM card option for use with each phone linked to one particular carrier, which means you won't be able to use these abroad. Unlocked cell phones, on the other hand, are what you need as they allow the use of any SIM card, as long as the frequency capabilities are correct. Buying Ahead of Time
It's important to remember when traveling internationally that you should take care of all your phone-related needs before you leave U.S. soil, especially if you plan to keep your same carrier and use the same service abroad. You can check your U.S. carrier to see what roaming costs will apply, but with the low cost of cell phones and international SIM cards, you might be better off just buying an unlocked cell phone like the LG Optimus L5, and you can also request that your carrier unlock your currently locked phone. The postage stamp sized SIM card is the heart and brains of the cell phone and will need to be purchased from your carrier for the country you'll be traveling to before you depart. The SIM card will determine the phone's number and allow access to the services that particular SIM card supports. Prices vary with country and services, and with a prepaid card, you'll probably receive unlimited incoming calls from anywhere in the world, some free calling time, and fairly reasonable long-distance rates (around half a Euro per minute).

How Do I Use My Cell Phone While Traveling to Europe? How Do I Use My Cell Phone While Traveling to Europe?
How Do I Use My Cell Phone While Traveling to Europe?
Table of Contents
Using my cell phone while traveling to Europe Talk To Your Current Provider
How to Use Your Smartphone in Europe
What type of phone do I have
Cell Phone While Traveling to Europe and Smartphone Data Plans and Texting
Get A Local SIM Card
Using a European SIM Card
Charging Your Cell Phone in Europe
Prepaid Cell Phones in Europe
Set Up A Mobile Hotspot
TEP Wireless vs Skyroam VS Keepgo When Traveling to Europe
Keepgo
Skyroam
TEP Wireless
Find WiFi and Use Chatting Apps
FREE iPad iPhone Travel Apps for your Cell Phone While Traveling to Europe
Hostel Hero:
Hostelworld:
Stanza:
Every Trail:
What Knot:
Skype (only for iPhone):
iTranslate:
Spending Light:
Convert Everything:
Kayak:
Lonely Planet:
Google Earth:
Wi-Fi Finder:
Using my SmartPhone While Traveling to Europe FAQ
What should I do with my phone when traveling to Europe?
Do I need an international phone plan for Europe?
Do US cell phones work in Europe?
How do you use your phone when traveling internationally?
Sharing is caring!
 First, Europe uses the GSM (“Global System for Mobiles”) system. All American carriers use GSM except Verizon and Sprint that use CDMA (Code Division Multiple Access). But this should not be an issue since most smartphones today can connect to both network systems. European SIM Card
The easiest way to use data plans and text services in Europe is to use international roaming as suggested above. If you find it too expensive, you can sign up for an international data plan which is something your carrier and other services will offer. The cost will depend on how you plan to use your mobile device, and it’s certainly going to be more expensive if you’re going to watch movies or YouTube videos. Plan ahead for e-Learning success as well, including a language while you are on holiday. Get A Local SIM Card
Depending on where you’re traveling, it might make a lot of sense to get a local SIM card. In order to install your SIM card, you will need to unlock your phone. Many carriers will allow you to do this as long as the phone is paid for.

How Do I Use My Cell Phone While Traveling to Europe?

How Do I Use My Cell Phone While Traveling to Europe?
How Do I Use My Cell Phone While Traveling to Europe?
Table of Contents
Using my cell phone while traveling to Europe Talk To Your Current Provider
How to Use Your Smartphone in Europe
What type of phone do I have
Cell Phone While Traveling to Europe and Smartphone Data Plans and Texting
Get A Local SIM Card
Using a European SIM Card
Charging Your Cell Phone in Europe
Prepaid Cell Phones in Europe
Set Up A Mobile Hotspot
TEP Wireless vs Skyroam VS Keepgo When Traveling to Europe
Keepgo
Skyroam
TEP Wireless
Find WiFi and Use Chatting Apps
FREE iPad iPhone Travel Apps for your Cell Phone While Traveling to Europe
Hostel Hero:
Hostelworld:
Stanza:
Every Trail:
What Knot:
Skype (only for iPhone):
iTranslate:
Spending Light:
Convert Everything:
Kayak:
Lonely Planet:
Google Earth:
Wi-Fi Finder:
Using my SmartPhone While Traveling to Europe FAQ
What should I do with my phone when traveling to Europe?
Do I need an international phone plan for Europe?
Do US cell phones work in Europe?
How do you use your phone when traveling internationally?
Sharing is caring!

First, Europe uses the GSM (“Global System for Mobiles”) system. All American carriers use GSM except Verizon and Sprint that use CDMA (Code Division Multiple Access). But this should not be an issue since most smartphones today can connect to both network systems. European SIM Card
The easiest way to use data plans and text services in Europe is to use international roaming as suggested above. If you find it too expensive, you can sign up for an international data plan which is something your carrier and other services will offer. The cost will depend on how you plan to use your mobile device, and it’s certainly going to be more expensive if you’re going to watch movies or YouTube videos. Plan ahead for e-Learning success as well, including a language while you are on holiday. Get A Local SIM Card
Depending on where you’re traveling, it might make a lot of sense to get a local SIM card. In order to install your SIM card, you will need to unlock your phone. Many carriers will allow you to do this as long as the phone is paid for.

How Do I Use My Cell Phone While Traveling to Europe? How Do I Use My Cell Phone While Traveling to Europe?
How Do I Use My Cell Phone While Traveling to Europe?
Table of Contents
Using my cell phone while traveling to Europe Talk To Your Current Provider
How to Use Your Smartphone in Europe
What type of phone do I have
Cell Phone While Traveling to Europe and Smartphone Data Plans and Texting
Get A Local SIM Card
Using a European SIM Card
Charging Your Cell Phone in Europe
Prepaid Cell Phones in Europe
Set Up A Mobile Hotspot
TEP Wireless vs Skyroam VS Keepgo When Traveling to Europe
Keepgo
Skyroam
TEP Wireless
Find WiFi and Use Chatting Apps
FREE iPad iPhone Travel Apps for your Cell Phone While Traveling to Europe
Hostel Hero:
Hostelworld:
Stanza:
Every Trail:
What Knot:
Skype (only for iPhone):
iTranslate:
Spending Light:
Convert Everything:
Kayak:
Lonely Planet:
Google Earth:
Wi-Fi Finder:
Using my SmartPhone While Traveling to Europe FAQ
What should I do with my phone when traveling to Europe?
Do I need an international phone plan for Europe?
Do US cell phones work in Europe?
How do you use your phone when traveling internationally?
Sharing is caring!
 Once your phone is unlocked, you can look for a SIM card in mobile phone stores, electronics counters and in some cases, vending machines. These SIM cards cost anywhere from 4 to 8 euros, and they don’t come with any commitment or contract. If you want a SIM card with data access good for a month, expect to pay around 13 to 25 euros for the card. Before you buy, take a look at your smartphone and make sure that the card is compatible. Some mobile devices like the iPhone use a different type of nano-SIM card, so make certain the card fits your phone. Talk to the clerk and check the rates for calls and to and from the European countries you will be visiting. Use the same approach for texting. We have used, LOVE and recommend: Skyroam and TEP Wireless
Once you’ve got a SIM card that works with your smartphone, ask the store personnel to install it and do a test call. Turn your mobile on, enter the PIN and if necessary switch the language to English.

Once your phone is unlocked, you can look for a SIM card in mobile phone stores, electronics counters and in some cases, vending machines. These SIM cards cost anywhere from 4 to 8 euros, and they don’t come with any commitment or contract. If you want a SIM card with data access good for a month, expect to pay around 13 to 25 euros for the card. Before you buy, take a look at your smartphone and make sure that the card is compatible. Some mobile devices like the iPhone use a different type of nano-SIM card, so make certain the card fits your phone. Talk to the clerk and check the rates for calls and to and from the European countries you will be visiting. Use the same approach for texting. We have used, LOVE and recommend: Skyroam and TEP Wireless
Once you’ve got a SIM card that works with your smartphone, ask the store personnel to install it and do a test call. Turn your mobile on, enter the PIN and if necessary switch the language to English.

Can I Use My iPhone in Europe? | 10Best Can I Use My iPhone in Europe?
Can I Use My iPhone in Europe?
Keep connected on your Euro trip
Buying a European SIM card
GSM vs. CDMA phones
Unlocking a phone
Using a European SIM card
International roaming with a U.S. carrier
 The best deal varies depending on the countries you plan to visit and the length of your trip, but here's an example of one European package: Orange, a major French carrier, sells a SIM package for EUR 39 ($46) that includes the following: A SIM card with a French phone number
120 minutes of phone calls, good anywhere in Europe
1,000 text messages, valid anywhere in Europe
1GB of data transfer, throughout Europe
It's easy to refill the package online, as well, should you max out your data or phone minutes. But keep an eye on these cellphone carriers' policies – some require you to bring in your original passport in order to qualify for the purchase of a SIM package, for example. GSM vs. CDMA phones
Still, there's a catch: European SIM cards are often accepted only in GSM phones, though some newer CDMA phones are starting to support them, as well. GSM and CDMA are two different types of network technology. European mobile carriers all use GSM (which requires a SIM card), as do AT&T and T-Mobile in the United States. Verizon and Sprint, on the other hand, use CDMA, so phones bought through those carriers might not use SIM cards. All iPhones use GSM technology, except for a CDMA version of the iPhone 4 manufactured specifically for Verizon and Sprint.

Can I Use My iPhone in Europe? | 10Best

Can I Use My iPhone in Europe?
Can I Use My iPhone in Europe?
Keep connected on your Euro trip
Buying a European SIM card
GSM vs. CDMA phones
Unlocking a phone
Using a European SIM card
International roaming with a U.S. carrier

The best deal varies depending on the countries you plan to visit and the length of your trip, but here's an example of one European package: Orange, a major French carrier, sells a SIM package for EUR 39 ($46) that includes the following: A SIM card with a French phone number
120 minutes of phone calls, good anywhere in Europe
1,000 text messages, valid anywhere in Europe
1GB of data transfer, throughout Europe
It's easy to refill the package online, as well, should you max out your data or phone minutes. But keep an eye on these cellphone carriers' policies – some require you to bring in your original passport in order to qualify for the purchase of a SIM package, for example. GSM vs. CDMA phones
Still, there's a catch: European SIM cards are often accepted only in GSM phones, though some newer CDMA phones are starting to support them, as well. GSM and CDMA are two different types of network technology. European mobile carriers all use GSM (which requires a SIM card), as do AT&T and T-Mobile in the United States. Verizon and Sprint, on the other hand, use CDMA, so phones bought through those carriers might not use SIM cards. All iPhones use GSM technology, except for a CDMA version of the iPhone 4 manufactured specifically for Verizon and Sprint.

How to Use Smartphone and Data Plans in Europe How to Use a Smartphone and Data Plans Abroad
How to Use a Smartphone and Data Plans Abroad
The Basics: PHONES AND DATA PLANS IN EUROPE
Will Your Phone Work Abroad?
Ways To Use Your Phone In Europe
International Roaming (Easy But Expensive)
International Data Plan (Easy But Slightly More Affordable)
Pre-Paid SIM Card w/ Data (A Hassle But Most Affordable)
Where To Buy SIM Cards
A Look At US Carrier Plans and Options
T-Mobile
Sprint
Verizon
TravelPass
Monthly International Travel Pricing
Pay as You Go pricing
AT&T
AT&T International Day Pass
AT&T Passport
Do You Even Need a Data Plan?
So Should You Get A Data Plan?
Tips For Using Only WiFi and/or Lowering Your Data Usage
OTHER TIPS AND ADVICE
No Funny Business
 The Basics: PHONES AND DATA PLANS IN EUROPE
Will Your Phone Work Abroad? Short Answer: Yes. Any modern phone that’s newer than an iPhone 4S should work in Europe. Long Answer: Some carriers in the US use a different wireless technology than what is used throughout all of Europe — which means that some US phones simply won’t work in Europe. Europe uses a system called GSM (Global System for Mobiles) but two American carriers (Verizon and Sprint) use CDMA (Code Division Multiple Access). All the other major US carriers use GSM, so no worries there. Luckily, most new phones offered via Verizon and Sprint can now connect to both GSM and CDMA networks.

How to Use Smartphone and Data Plans in Europe

How to Use a Smartphone and Data Plans Abroad
How to Use a Smartphone and Data Plans Abroad
The Basics: PHONES AND DATA PLANS IN EUROPE
Will Your Phone Work Abroad?
Ways To Use Your Phone In Europe
International Roaming (Easy But Expensive)
International Data Plan (Easy But Slightly More Affordable)
Pre-Paid SIM Card w/ Data (A Hassle But Most Affordable)
Where To Buy SIM Cards
A Look At US Carrier Plans and Options
T-Mobile
Sprint
Verizon
TravelPass
Monthly International Travel Pricing
Pay as You Go pricing
AT&T
AT&T International Day Pass
AT&T Passport
Do You Even Need a Data Plan?
So Should You Get A Data Plan?
Tips For Using Only WiFi and/or Lowering Your Data Usage
OTHER TIPS AND ADVICE
No Funny Business

The Basics: PHONES AND DATA PLANS IN EUROPE
Will Your Phone Work Abroad? Short Answer: Yes. Any modern phone that’s newer than an iPhone 4S should work in Europe. Long Answer: Some carriers in the US use a different wireless technology than what is used throughout all of Europe — which means that some US phones simply won’t work in Europe. Europe uses a system called GSM (Global System for Mobiles) but two American carriers (Verizon and Sprint) use CDMA (Code Division Multiple Access). All the other major US carriers use GSM, so no worries there. Luckily, most new phones offered via Verizon and Sprint can now connect to both GSM and CDMA networks.

How Do I Use My Cell Phone While Traveling to Europe? How Do I Use My Cell Phone While Traveling to Europe?
How Do I Use My Cell Phone While Traveling to Europe?
Table of Contents
Using my cell phone while traveling to Europe Talk To Your Current Provider
How to Use Your Smartphone in Europe
What type of phone do I have
Cell Phone While Traveling to Europe and Smartphone Data Plans and Texting
Get A Local SIM Card
Using a European SIM Card
Charging Your Cell Phone in Europe
Prepaid Cell Phones in Europe
Set Up A Mobile Hotspot
TEP Wireless vs Skyroam VS Keepgo When Traveling to Europe
Keepgo
Skyroam
TEP Wireless
Find WiFi and Use Chatting Apps
FREE iPad iPhone Travel Apps for your Cell Phone While Traveling to Europe
Hostel Hero:
Hostelworld:
Stanza:
Every Trail:
What Knot:
Skype (only for iPhone):
iTranslate:
Spending Light:
Convert Everything:
Kayak:
Lonely Planet:
Google Earth:
Wi-Fi Finder:
Using my SmartPhone While Traveling to Europe FAQ
What should I do with my phone when traveling to Europe?
Do I need an international phone plan for Europe?
Do US cell phones work in Europe?
How do you use your phone when traveling internationally?
Sharing is caring!
 If your carrier pushes back on unlocking your phone, you can always have it unlocked once you arrive in Europe. There is no real standard of excellence for having your phone unlocked by a local shop, so make sure that you check around and get solid references before you go this route. Once your phone is unlocked you can use your local SIM card with ease! Make sure that you keep your American SIM in a safe spot because you’ll need it when you return home. Best Data Plan WiFi Hotspot Devices for Travel
Skyroam Wifi Anywhere
Using a European SIM Card
The simplest and most practical option is to use a European SIM card, and you can get these from various European mobile carriers. In most cases you’re going to have to unlock your phone so it can use the SIM card from other carriers. The majority of US smartphones are locked, and you may want to get in touch with your mobile company for assistance on unlocking it. If you’d rather unlock your smartphone yourself, download software that unlocks smartphones and use their codes to unlock your device. There are several services like these available online and the process is fairly straightforward: pay the fee, provide some info about the phone on the website, and the service will email you the code to unlock your mobile.

If your carrier pushes back on unlocking your phone, you can always have it unlocked once you arrive in Europe. There is no real standard of excellence for having your phone unlocked by a local shop, so make sure that you check around and get solid references before you go this route. Once your phone is unlocked you can use your local SIM card with ease! Make sure that you keep your American SIM in a safe spot because you’ll need it when you return home. Best Data Plan WiFi Hotspot Devices for Travel
Skyroam Wifi Anywhere
Using a European SIM Card
The simplest and most practical option is to use a European SIM card, and you can get these from various European mobile carriers. In most cases you’re going to have to unlock your phone so it can use the SIM card from other carriers. The majority of US smartphones are locked, and you may want to get in touch with your mobile company for assistance on unlocking it. If you’d rather unlock your smartphone yourself, download software that unlocks smartphones and use their codes to unlock your device. There are several services like these available online and the process is fairly straightforward: pay the fee, provide some info about the phone on the website, and the service will email you the code to unlock your mobile.

usa - Do American cellphones work in Europe? - Travel Stack Exchange
Do American cellphones work in Europe?
2 Answers
2
Not the answer you're looking for? Browse other questions tagged usa europe cellphones or ask your own question.
 Sprint uses the CDMA standard. Europe uses a different standard, GSM. The only US phones which can work in Europe are: GSM phones from AT&T and/or T-Mobile, the two GSM providers in the US, as long as the phone supports the same bands as the country you're going to (most phones in the last couple of years are multi-band and will). The newer "world phones" from Verizon, Sprint, and other CDMA carriers, (including the iPhones 4S and 5) which support both CDMA and GSM. The phone should also be carrier-unlocked. Then you can buy foreign carrier SIM cards and pop them in your phone. It's cheap to use. However, unlocked phones are generally a few hundred dollars more than locked ones. If you buy a phone without a contract, it's probably unlocked.

usa - Do American cellphones work in Europe? - Travel Stack Exchange

Do American cellphones work in Europe?
2 Answers
2
Not the answer you're looking for? Browse other questions tagged usa europe cellphones or ask your own question.

Sprint uses the CDMA standard. Europe uses a different standard, GSM. The only US phones which can work in Europe are: GSM phones from AT&T and/or T-Mobile, the two GSM providers in the US, as long as the phone supports the same bands as the country you're going to (most phones in the last couple of years are multi-band and will). The newer "world phones" from Verizon, Sprint, and other CDMA carriers, (including the iPhones 4S and 5) which support both CDMA and GSM. The phone should also be carrier-unlocked. Then you can buy foreign carrier SIM cards and pop them in your phone. It's cheap to use. However, unlocked phones are generally a few hundred dollars more than locked ones. If you buy a phone without a contract, it's probably unlocked.

Guide to Buying a SIM Card in Europe | EuroCheapo.com Buying a SIM card in Europe: The cheapest way to use a smartphone while traveling
Buying a SIM card in Europe: The cheapest way to use a smartphone while traveling
In this article
Traveling abroad? Your smartphone options
Purchasing an international package from your carrier
Winging it without a package
Purchasing a SIM Card abroad
The benefits of buying a SIM card in Europe
How does it work?
What about locked phones?
AT&T customers
T-Mobile customers
Verizon customers
What happens if you can’t unlock your phone?
Use an old phone
Buy a cheap phone in Europe
Buy a cheap phone before leaving for Europe
How do you install the SIM card?
Buying SIM cards in Europe
Considerations when shopping for SIM cards
Package or pay-as-you-go
How much do calls cost
Connection charge
Other countries
Wi-Fi hotspots
Finally, don’t forget…
When you place a SIM card in your phone, your phone number will change.
Your SIM card questions and stories
Heading to Europe? Get our ebook for free!
About the author
Poland: A Budget travel guide to Krakow
 Use an old phone
Most people have an old mobile phone sitting around at home in the back of a drawer somewhere. While it might not be a cutting-edge smartphone, it could still do the job for your trip. Check out your collection of old phones to see if any of them operate with SIM cards. Buy a cheap phone in Europe
Really cheap phones are easy to come by in Europe. Some SIM card packages aimed at tourists even come with a phone to use! In France, for example, the carrier SFR offers a package with a SIM card and cheapo phone. While most of these phones won’t be “smart” (you’re not going to be updating your favorite apps or checking email), they can be used to make calls and send text messages. Buy a cheap phone before leaving for Europe
You ca

Guide to Buying a SIM Card in Europe | EuroCheapo.com

Buying a SIM card in Europe: The cheapest way to use a smartphone while traveling
Buying a SIM card in Europe: The cheapest way to use a smartphone while traveling
In this article
Traveling abroad? Your smartphone options
Purchasing an international package from your carrier
Winging it without a package
Purchasing a SIM Card abroad
The benefits of buying a SIM card in Europe
How does it work?
What about locked phones?
AT&T customers
T-Mobile customers
Verizon customers
What happens if you can’t unlock your phone?
Use an old phone
Buy a cheap phone in Europe
Buy a cheap phone before leaving for Europe
How do you install the SIM card?
Buying SIM cards in Europe
Considerations when shopping for SIM cards
Package or pay-as-you-go
How much do calls cost
Connection charge
Other countries
Wi-Fi hotspots
Finally, don’t forget…
When you place a SIM card in your phone, your phone number will change.
Your SIM card questions and stories
Heading to Europe? Get our ebook for free!
About the author
Poland: A Budget travel guide to Krakow

Use an old phone
Most people have an old mobile phone sitting around at home in the back of a drawer somewhere. While it might not be a cutting-edge smartphone, it could still do the job for your trip. Check out your collection of old phones to see if any of them operate with SIM cards. Buy a cheap phone in Europe
Really cheap phones are easy to come by in Europe. Some SIM card packages aimed at tourists even come with a phone to use! In France, for example, the carrier SFR offers a package with a SIM card and cheapo phone. While most of these phones won’t be “smart” (you’re not going to be updating your favorite apps or checking email), they can be used to make calls and send text messages. Buy a cheap phone before leaving for Europe
You ca

How Do I Use My Cell Phone While Traveling to Europe? How Do I Use My Cell Phone While Traveling to Europe?
How Do I Use My Cell Phone While Traveling to Europe?
Table of Contents
Using my cell phone while traveling to Europe Talk To Your Current Provider
How to Use Your Smartphone in Europe
What type of phone do I have
Cell Phone While Traveling to Europe and Smartphone Data Plans and Texting
Get A Local SIM Card
Using a European SIM Card
Charging Your Cell Phone in Europe
Prepaid Cell Phones in Europe
Set Up A Mobile Hotspot
TEP Wireless vs Skyroam VS Keepgo When Traveling to Europe
Keepgo
Skyroam
TEP Wireless
Find WiFi and Use Chatting Apps
FREE iPad iPhone Travel Apps for your Cell Phone While Traveling to Europe
Hostel Hero:
Hostelworld:
Stanza:
Every Trail:
What Knot:
Skype (only for iPhone):
iTranslate:
Spending Light:
Convert Everything:
Kayak:
Lonely Planet:
Google Earth:
Wi-Fi Finder:
Using my SmartPhone While Traveling to Europe FAQ
What should I do with my phone when traveling to Europe?
Do I need an international phone plan for Europe?
Do US cell phones work in Europe?
How do you use your phone when traveling internationally?
Sharing is caring!
 One word of advice: Don’t just use your plan without speaking with your provider. You could rack up hundreds, or even thousands of dollars in roaming fees. Avoid sticker shock with your next phone bill by being smart and planning in advance. A lot of travelers prefer to use their own cell phone while traveling to Europe, and some even like to bring their other mobile devices for email, communications, watching videos, browsing the Web and so on. The good news is, it isn’t that difficult to use your smartphone in Europe (or Traveling to Asia) to access the Internet, make calls or text. The following explains everything you need to do. Tips for Traveling Internationally
Cell Phone While Traveling to Europe
Table of Contents
Using my cell phone while traveling to Europe Talk To Your Current Provider
How to Use Your Smartphone in Europe
What type of phone do I have
Cell Phone While Traveling to Europe and Smartphone Data Plans and Texting
Get A Local SIM Card
Using a European SIM Card
Charging Your Cell Phone in Europe
Prepaid Cell Phones in Europe
Set Up A Mobile Hotspot
TEP Wireless vs Skyroam VS Keepgo When Traveling to Europe
Keepgo
Skyroam
TEP Wireless
Find WiFi and Use Chatting Apps
FREE iPad iPhone Travel Apps for your Cell Phone While Traveling to Europe
Hostel Hero: Hostelworld: Stanza:

One word of advice: Don’t just use your plan without speaking with your provider. You could rack up hundreds, or even thousands of dollars in roaming fees. Avoid sticker shock with your next phone bill by being smart and planning in advance. A lot of travelers prefer to use their own cell phone while traveling to Europe, and some even like to bring their other mobile devices for email, communications, watching videos, browsing the Web and so on. The good news is, it isn’t that difficult to use your smartphone in Europe (or Traveling to Asia) to access the Internet, make calls or text. The following explains everything you need to do. Tips for Traveling Internationally
Cell Phone While Traveling to Europe
Table of Contents
Using my cell phone while traveling to Europe Talk To Your Current Provider
How to Use Your Smartphone in Europe
What type of phone do I have
Cell Phone While Traveling to Europe and Smartphone Data Plans and Texting
Get A Local SIM Card
Using a European SIM Card
Charging Your Cell Phone in Europe
Prepaid Cell Phones in Europe
Set Up A Mobile Hotspot
TEP Wireless vs Skyroam VS Keepgo When Traveling to Europe
Keepgo
Skyroam
TEP Wireless
Find WiFi and Use Chatting Apps
FREE iPad iPhone Travel Apps for your Cell Phone While Traveling to Europe
Hostel Hero: Hostelworld: Stanza:

How Do I Use My Cell Phone While Traveling to Europe? How Do I Use My Cell Phone While Traveling to Europe?
How Do I Use My Cell Phone While Traveling to Europe?
Table of Contents
Using my cell phone while traveling to Europe Talk To Your Current Provider
How to Use Your Smartphone in Europe
What type of phone do I have
Cell Phone While Traveling to Europe and Smartphone Data Plans and Texting
Get A Local SIM Card
Using a European SIM Card
Charging Your Cell Phone in Europe
Prepaid Cell Phones in Europe
Set Up A Mobile Hotspot
TEP Wireless vs Skyroam VS Keepgo When Traveling to Europe
Keepgo
Skyroam
TEP Wireless
Find WiFi and Use Chatting Apps
FREE iPad iPhone Travel Apps for your Cell Phone While Traveling to Europe
Hostel Hero:
Hostelworld:
Stanza:
Every Trail:
What Knot:
Skype (only for iPhone):
iTranslate:
Spending Light:
Convert Everything:
Kayak:
Lonely Planet:
Google Earth:
Wi-Fi Finder:
Using my SmartPhone While Traveling to Europe FAQ
What should I do with my phone when traveling to Europe?
Do I need an international phone plan for Europe?
Do US cell phones work in Europe?
How do you use your phone when traveling internationally?
Sharing is caring!
 Why Working Remotely is Harder than You Think
Best Apps for Traveling
How Do I Get Internet While Traveling? Using My Cell Phone While Traveling to Europe
Best Mobile Hotspot for Traveling to Europe and Overseas
What type of phone do I have
The easiest way to find what type of phone you have and what phone model, is to check the settings in your phone. Go to the Settings or Options menu, scroll to the bottom, and click on ‘About phone’. The name and model number of your Smartphone will be listed. Cell Phone While Traveling to Europe and Smartphone Data Plans and Texting
If you want to use smartphone data plans and texting in Europe, keep the following things in mind. First, Europe uses the GSM (“Global System for Mobiles”) system. All American carriers use GSM except Verizon and Sprint that use CDMA (Code Division Multiple Access). But this should not be an issue since most smartphones today can connect to both network systems. European SIM Card
The easiest way to use data plans and text services in Europe is to use international roaming as suggested above. If you find it too expensive, you can sign up for an international data plan which is something your carrier and other services will offer.

Why Working Remotely is Harder than You Think
Best Apps for Traveling
How Do I Get Internet While Traveling? Using My Cell Phone While Traveling to Europe
Best Mobile Hotspot for Traveling to Europe and Overseas
What type of phone do I have
The easiest way to find what type of phone you have and what phone model, is to check the settings in your phone. Go to the Settings or Options menu, scroll to the bottom, and click on ‘About phone’. The name and model number of your Smartphone will be listed. Cell Phone While Traveling to Europe and Smartphone Data Plans and Texting
If you want to use smartphone data plans and texting in Europe, keep the following things in mind. First, Europe uses the GSM (“Global System for Mobiles”) system. All American carriers use GSM except Verizon and Sprint that use CDMA (Code Division Multiple Access). But this should not be an issue since most smartphones today can connect to both network systems. European SIM Card
The easiest way to use data plans and text services in Europe is to use international roaming as suggested above. If you find it too expensive, you can sign up for an international data plan which is something your carrier and other services will offer.

Can I Use My iPhone in Europe? | 10Best Can I Use My iPhone in Europe?
Can I Use My iPhone in Europe?
Keep connected on your Euro trip
Buying a European SIM card
GSM vs. CDMA phones
Unlocking a phone
Using a European SIM card
International roaming with a U.S. carrier
 Can I Use My iPhone in Europe? | 10Best
Trip Planning // Getaways
Can I Use My iPhone in Europe? By Brenna Swanston; Updated September 26, 2017
Keep connected on your Euro trip
Smartphones are key for a smooth-sailing European trip, since travelers use iPhone and Android apps for everything from booking hostels to getting updates on local train schedules. Luckily, with a little planning, U.S. iPhones – in fact, most smartphones – can work just fine in European countries. Convert that smartphone for European use in two primary ways: buy a SIM card in Europe or purchase a travel plan through a U.S.-based carrier. Buying a European SIM card
This is usually the cheapest way to use a smartphone while traveling in Europe, and it's pretty simple, depending on the actual phone in question. How to Call Europe From the US
Does Carnival Cruises Have Free Wi-Fi? The Pros and Cons of a Carnival Cruise Credit Card
Europe hosts several cellphone carriers, each offering SIM card and travel package deals.

Can I Use My iPhone in Europe? | 10Best

Can I Use My iPhone in Europe? | 10Best
Trip Planning // Getaways
Can I Use My iPhone in Europe? By Brenna Swanston; Updated September 26, 2017
Keep connected on your Euro trip
Smartphones are key for a smooth-sailing European trip, since travelers use iPhone and Android apps for everything from booking hostels to getting updates on local train schedules. Luckily, with a little planning, U.S. iPhones – in fact, most smartphones – can work just fine in European countries. Convert that smartphone for European use in two primary ways: buy a SIM card in Europe or purchase a travel plan through a U.S.-based carrier. Buying a European SIM card
This is usually the cheapest way to use a smartphone while traveling in Europe, and it's pretty simple, depending on the actual phone in question. How to Call Europe From the US
Does Carnival Cruises Have Free Wi-Fi? The Pros and Cons of a Carnival Cruise Credit Card
Europe hosts several cellphone carriers, each offering SIM card and travel package deals.

The iPhone in Germany and Europe – Part 2 | The German Way & More The iPhone in Germany and Europe – Part 2
The iPhone in Germany and Europe – Part 2
A Guide to Using Your iPhone in Germany
Taking Care of Business Before You Leave
FAQ: Using an iPhone in Germany and Europe
International Text and Data
 operate with either 120 or 230-volt power. You only need a plug adapter to convert the US flat-pronged plug to the European round prongs. International Text and Data
In German a text message is called an SMS (“short message service”). There are various international text messaging plans available, including T-Mobile’s Passport option. Another option, and a free one, that works with almost any smartphone or tablet is What’s App. As long as you have Wi-Fi, you can send and receive text and images for free, as long as the other person also has the same (free) app installed. Just use your phone to download the app from the Apple App Store or Google Play (Android). The “Messages” app included in the iPhone iOS also allows you to send free text, data and images using Wi-Fi from anywhere in the world. Using a US iPhone in Germany/Europe – Long-Term
If you are an expat living and working in Austria, Germany, Switzerland or another European country, you need a long-term solution. You’ll want to set up your iPhone with a local prepaid plan or a rate plan with T-Mobile Germany, O2 or Vodafone (or other European carriers).

The iPhone in Germany and Europe – Part 2 | The German Way & More

The iPhone in Germany and Europe – Part 2
The iPhone in Germany and Europe – Part 2
A Guide to Using Your iPhone in Germany
Taking Care of Business Before You Leave
FAQ: Using an iPhone in Germany and Europe
International Text and Data

operate with either 120 or 230-volt power. You only need a plug adapter to convert the US flat-pronged plug to the European round prongs. International Text and Data
In German a text message is called an SMS (“short message service”). There are various international text messaging plans available, including T-Mobile’s Passport option. Another option, and a free one, that works with almost any smartphone or tablet is What’s App. As long as you have Wi-Fi, you can send and receive text and images for free, as long as the other person also has the same (free) app installed. Just use your phone to download the app from the Apple App Store or Google Play (Android). The “Messages” app included in the iPhone iOS also allows you to send free text, data and images using Wi-Fi from anywhere in the world. Using a US iPhone in Germany/Europe – Long-Term
If you are an expat living and working in Austria, Germany, Switzerland or another European country, you need a long-term solution. You’ll want to set up your iPhone with a local prepaid plan or a rate plan with T-Mobile Germany, O2 or Vodafone (or other European carriers).

How to Use Smartphone and Data Plans in Europe How to Use a Smartphone and Data Plans Abroad
How to Use a Smartphone and Data Plans Abroad
The Basics: PHONES AND DATA PLANS IN EUROPE
Will Your Phone Work Abroad?
Ways To Use Your Phone In Europe
International Roaming (Easy But Expensive)
International Data Plan (Easy But Slightly More Affordable)
Pre-Paid SIM Card w/ Data (A Hassle But Most Affordable)
Where To Buy SIM Cards
A Look At US Carrier Plans and Options
T-Mobile
Sprint
Verizon
TravelPass
Monthly International Travel Pricing
Pay as You Go pricing
AT&T
AT&T International Day Pass
AT&T Passport
Do You Even Need a Data Plan?
So Should You Get A Data Plan?
Tips For Using Only WiFi and/or Lowering Your Data Usage
OTHER TIPS AND ADVICE
No Funny Business
 Long Answer: Some carriers in the US use a different wireless technology than what is used throughout all of Europe — which means that some US phones simply won’t work in Europe. Europe uses a system called GSM (Global System for Mobiles) but two American carriers (Verizon and Sprint) use CDMA (Code Division Multiple Access). All the other major US carriers use GSM, so no worries there. Luckily, most new phones offered via Verizon and Sprint can now connect to both GSM and CDMA networks. For example, anything newer than an iPhone 4S will work perfectly fine in Europe. If you have an Android or Windows phone through Verizon and Sprint, be sure to check if it’s a “world phone” (i.e., it’s GSM compatible) — most modern phones should be fine. If your phone isn’t compatible, check with your service provider as some will rent you a phone for a few weeks/months. Ways To Use Your Phone In Europe
International Roaming (Easy But Expensive)
Most American carriers have partnerships with carriers overseas so your phone will automatically connect to that partner’s mobile/data services. You don’t have to do anything.

Long Answer: Some carriers in the US use a different wireless technology than what is used throughout all of Europe — which means that some US phones simply won’t work in Europe. Europe uses a system called GSM (Global System for Mobiles) but two American carriers (Verizon and Sprint) use CDMA (Code Division Multiple Access). All the other major US carriers use GSM, so no worries there. Luckily, most new phones offered via Verizon and Sprint can now connect to both GSM and CDMA networks. For example, anything newer than an iPhone 4S will work perfectly fine in Europe. If you have an Android or Windows phone through Verizon and Sprint, be sure to check if it’s a “world phone” (i.e., it’s GSM compatible) — most modern phones should be fine. If your phone isn’t compatible, check with your service provider as some will rent you a phone for a few weeks/months. Ways To Use Your Phone In Europe
International Roaming (Easy But Expensive)
Most American carriers have partnerships with carriers overseas so your phone will automatically connect to that partner’s mobile/data services. You don’t have to do anything.

How Do I Use My Cell Phone While Traveling to Europe? How Do I Use My Cell Phone While Traveling to Europe?
How Do I Use My Cell Phone While Traveling to Europe?
Table of Contents
Using my cell phone while traveling to Europe Talk To Your Current Provider
How to Use Your Smartphone in Europe
What type of phone do I have
Cell Phone While Traveling to Europe and Smartphone Data Plans and Texting
Get A Local SIM Card
Using a European SIM Card
Charging Your Cell Phone in Europe
Prepaid Cell Phones in Europe
Set Up A Mobile Hotspot
TEP Wireless vs Skyroam VS Keepgo When Traveling to Europe
Keepgo
Skyroam
TEP Wireless
Find WiFi and Use Chatting Apps
FREE iPad iPhone Travel Apps for your Cell Phone While Traveling to Europe
Hostel Hero:
Hostelworld:
Stanza:
Every Trail:
What Knot:
Skype (only for iPhone):
iTranslate:
Spending Light:
Convert Everything:
Kayak:
Lonely Planet:
Google Earth:
Wi-Fi Finder:
Using my SmartPhone While Traveling to Europe FAQ
What should I do with my phone when traveling to Europe?
Do I need an international phone plan for Europe?
Do US cell phones work in Europe?
How do you use your phone when traveling internationally?
Sharing is caring!
 The good news is, it isn’t that difficult to use your smartphone in Europe (or Traveling to Asia) to access the Internet, make calls or text. The following explains everything you need to do. Tips for Traveling Internationally
Cell Phone While Traveling to Europe
Table of Contents
Using my cell phone while traveling to Europe Talk To Your Current Provider
How to Use Your Smartphone in Europe
What type of phone do I have
Cell Phone While Traveling to Europe and Smartphone Data Plans and Texting
Get A Local SIM Card
Using a European SIM Card
Charging Your Cell Phone in Europe
Prepaid Cell Phones in Europe
Set Up A Mobile Hotspot
TEP Wireless vs Skyroam VS Keepgo When Traveling to Europe
Keepgo
Skyroam
TEP Wireless
Find WiFi and Use Chatting Apps
FREE iPad iPhone Travel Apps for your Cell Phone While Traveling to Europe
Hostel Hero: Hostelworld: Stanza: Every Trail: What Knot: Skype (only for iPhone): iTranslate: Spending Light:

The good news is, it isn’t that difficult to use your smartphone in Europe (or Traveling to Asia) to access the Internet, make calls or text. The following explains everything you need to do. Tips for Traveling Internationally
Cell Phone While Traveling to Europe
Table of Contents
Using my cell phone while traveling to Europe Talk To Your Current Provider
How to Use Your Smartphone in Europe
What type of phone do I have
Cell Phone While Traveling to Europe and Smartphone Data Plans and Texting
Get A Local SIM Card
Using a European SIM Card
Charging Your Cell Phone in Europe
Prepaid Cell Phones in Europe
Set Up A Mobile Hotspot
TEP Wireless vs Skyroam VS Keepgo When Traveling to Europe
Keepgo
Skyroam
TEP Wireless
Find WiFi and Use Chatting Apps
FREE iPad iPhone Travel Apps for your Cell Phone While Traveling to Europe
Hostel Hero: Hostelworld: Stanza: Every Trail: What Knot: Skype (only for iPhone): iTranslate: Spending Light:

The Best International Sim Card For Europe with Data - The World Was Here First The Best International Sim Card For Europe with Data
The Best International Sim Card For Europe with Data
Table of Contents
Best SIM Card for Europe Comparison
Will my Phone Work in Europe?
Does Your Phone Use GSM?
Is My Phone Unlocked?
Best International SIM Card for Europe with Data
Three Prepaid SIM with 12GB Data
Orange Prepaid SIM Card with 20GB Data
EE Prepaid Data SIM Card with 6GB Data
Giffgaff Prepaid SIM with 20GB Data
Cellhire Prepaid SIM Card with 8GB Data
What About Buying a Local SIM Card?
 A possible solution is to buy a cheaper unlocked phone to use for your trip to Europe. You should however do the math and compare the cost of a new phone compared to using an international data pack with your existing provider. Having data makes sharing photos in Europe a lot easier! If you’re planning on going to Europe for more than a couple weeks you might be surprised that buying a new phone and a prepaid SIM card for Europe actually turns out to be cheaper! For example, Verizon, charge $10 per day to use your phone in Europe. If travelling for a month, that’s $300 in extra fees — which would add a significant amount to your overall Europe trip cost! Some unlocked phones that I recommend for travellers to Europe are the Samsung J2 Prime or Samsung A50
Another option if you don’t want to buy a new phone is to invest in a mobile WiFi hotspot which is particularly useful if travelling outside of the European Union. You can also rely on public WiFi which is commonly available in Europe, however, make sure you subscribe to a quality VPN such as ExpressVPN. If you’re unsure which technology your phone uses, call your provider and ask. Is My Phone Unlocked?

The Best International Sim Card For Europe with Data - The World Was Here First

The Best International Sim Card For Europe with Data
The Best International Sim Card For Europe with Data
Table of Contents
Best SIM Card for Europe Comparison
Will my Phone Work in Europe?
Does Your Phone Use GSM?
Is My Phone Unlocked?
Best International SIM Card for Europe with Data
Three Prepaid SIM with 12GB Data
Orange Prepaid SIM Card with 20GB Data
EE Prepaid Data SIM Card with 6GB Data
Giffgaff Prepaid SIM with 20GB Data
Cellhire Prepaid SIM Card with 8GB Data
What About Buying a Local SIM Card?

A possible solution is to buy a cheaper unlocked phone to use for your trip to Europe. You should however do the math and compare the cost of a new phone compared to using an international data pack with your existing provider. Having data makes sharing photos in Europe a lot easier! If you’re planning on going to Europe for more than a couple weeks you might be surprised that buying a new phone and a prepaid SIM card for Europe actually turns out to be cheaper! For example, Verizon, charge $10 per day to use your phone in Europe. If travelling for a month, that’s $300 in extra fees — which would add a significant amount to your overall Europe trip cost! Some unlocked phones that I recommend for travellers to Europe are the Samsung J2 Prime or Samsung A50
Another option if you don’t want to buy a new phone is to invest in a mobile WiFi hotspot which is particularly useful if travelling outside of the European Union. You can also rely on public WiFi which is commonly available in Europe, however, make sure you subscribe to a quality VPN such as ExpressVPN. If you’re unsure which technology your phone uses, call your provider and ask. Is My Phone Unlocked?

Using a European SIM Card by Rick Steves Using a European SIM Card
Using a European SIM Card
By Rick Steves
 Generally with a European SIM card, it's free to receive domestic texts and calls, about 2–20 cents/minute to make domestic calls and calls within the EU, and 5–15 cents to send a text within the EU. For the best rates, buy a new SIM card every time you arrive in a new country. To get a European SIM, you'll need to do the following: 1. Make sure you're equipped with a proper phone. You'll need either a European phone or an unlocked phone in order for a European SIM card to work (some phones are electronically "locked" so you can't switch SIM cards). Check with your carrier — it's possible the phone you have is already unlocked, as this feature is becoming more common in newer models. Otherwise, you can try asking your provider if they'll unlock it for you. Remember that as long as you have a European SIM in your own phone, you won't be reachable at your regular US number. If it's not possible to unlock your phone, you can buy an unlocked phone either before your trip or at your destination (it's around $40 for a basic unlocked phone).

Generally with a European SIM card, it's free to receive domestic texts and calls, about 2–20 cents/minute to make domestic calls and calls within the EU, and 5–15 cents to send a text within the EU. For the best rates, buy a new SIM card every time you arrive in a new country. To get a European SIM, you'll need to do the following: 1. Make sure you're equipped with a proper phone. You'll need either a European phone or an unlocked phone in order for a European SIM card to work (some phones are electronically "locked" so you can't switch SIM cards). Check with your carrier — it's possible the phone you have is already unlocked, as this feature is becoming more common in newer models. Otherwise, you can try asking your provider if they'll unlock it for you. Remember that as long as you have a European SIM in your own phone, you won't be reachable at your regular US number. If it's not possible to unlock your phone, you can buy an unlocked phone either before your trip or at your destination (it's around $40 for a basic unlocked phone).

How to Avoid Those Annoying International Roaming Charges | Condé Nast Traveler How to Avoid Those Annoying International Roaming Charges
How to Avoid Those Annoying International Roaming Charges
Here's how to stay connected without spending a fortune.
 Act like a local
If you'd rather take your own phone, you'll first need to make sure it's "unlocked," meaning it can be used on any cellular network not just the one you typically use. AT&T will let you unlock your device permanently once your contract expires. Before that, AT&T will let you unlock up to five times per year for international travel. ( Click here for more specifics.) Some Verizon phones—including the iPhone 5 and 6—are sold unlocked, and the carrier has its full rules on the unlocking process online. Once your phone is unlocked, you can purchase a local SIM card in your destination and use your phone on the local network. You’ll have to pay a few dollars for the SIM card—and spend part of your trip inside a cell phone store—but typically you can get good local pre-paid rates this way. Vodafone, one of the top carriers in Europe, for example, sells SIM cards that provide 100 megabytes of data anywhere in a 35-nation "Europe Zone" for about $4.50 per day. ( Most people use less than 100 megabytes every day.) Try a travel-specific plan
MTX Connect, a mobile operator that provides data-only plans, has launched a new pay-as-you-go service for U.S. travelers going to any of 30 European countries.

How to Avoid Those Annoying International Roaming Charges | Condé Nast Traveler

How to Avoid Those Annoying International Roaming Charges
How to Avoid Those Annoying International Roaming Charges
Here's how to stay connected without spending a fortune.

Act like a local
If you'd rather take your own phone, you'll first need to make sure it's "unlocked," meaning it can be used on any cellular network not just the one you typically use. AT&T will let you unlock your device permanently once your contract expires. Before that, AT&T will let you unlock up to five times per year for international travel. ( Click here for more specifics.) Some Verizon phones—including the iPhone 5 and 6—are sold unlocked, and the carrier has its full rules on the unlocking process online. Once your phone is unlocked, you can purchase a local SIM card in your destination and use your phone on the local network. You’ll have to pay a few dollars for the SIM card—and spend part of your trip inside a cell phone store—but typically you can get good local pre-paid rates this way. Vodafone, one of the top carriers in Europe, for example, sells SIM cards that provide 100 megabytes of data anywhere in a 35-nation "Europe Zone" for about $4.50 per day. ( Most people use less than 100 megabytes every day.) Try a travel-specific plan
MTX Connect, a mobile operator that provides data-only plans, has launched a new pay-as-you-go service for U.S. travelers going to any of 30 European countries.

Can I Use My iPhone in Europe? | 10Best Can I Use My iPhone in Europe?
Can I Use My iPhone in Europe?
Keep connected on your Euro trip
Buying a European SIM card
GSM vs. CDMA phones
Unlocking a phone
Using a European SIM card
International roaming with a U.S. carrier
 Convert that smartphone for European use in two primary ways: buy a SIM card in Europe or purchase a travel plan through a U.S.-based carrier. Buying a European SIM card
This is usually the cheapest way to use a smartphone while traveling in Europe, and it's pretty simple, depending on the actual phone in question. How to Call Europe From the US
Does Carnival Cruises Have Free Wi-Fi? The Pros and Cons of a Carnival Cruise Credit Card
Europe hosts several cellphone carriers, each offering SIM card and travel package deals. The best deal varies depending on the countries you plan to visit and the length of your trip, but here's an example of one European package: Orange, a major French carrier, sells a SIM package for EUR 39 ($46) that includes the following: A SIM card with a French phone number
120 minutes of phone calls, good anywhere in Europe
1,000 text messages, valid anywhere in Europe
1GB of data transfer, throughout Europe
It's easy to refill the package online, as well, should you max out your data or phone minutes. But keep an eye on these cellphone carriers' policies – some require you to bring in your original passport in order to qualify for the purchase of a SIM package, for example. GSM vs. CDMA phones
Still, there's a catch:

Can I Use My iPhone in Europe? | 10Best

Convert that smartphone for European use in two primary ways: buy a SIM card in Europe or purchase a travel plan through a U.S.-based carrier. Buying a European SIM card
This is usually the cheapest way to use a smartphone while traveling in Europe, and it's pretty simple, depending on the actual phone in question. How to Call Europe From the US
Does Carnival Cruises Have Free Wi-Fi? The Pros and Cons of a Carnival Cruise Credit Card
Europe hosts several cellphone carriers, each offering SIM card and travel package deals. The best deal varies depending on the countries you plan to visit and the length of your trip, but here's an example of one European package: Orange, a major French carrier, sells a SIM package for EUR 39 ($46) that includes the following: A SIM card with a French phone number
120 minutes of phone calls, good anywhere in Europe
1,000 text messages, valid anywhere in Europe
1GB of data transfer, throughout Europe
It's easy to refill the package online, as well, should you max out your data or phone minutes. But keep an eye on these cellphone carriers' policies – some require you to bring in your original passport in order to qualify for the purchase of a SIM package, for example. GSM vs. CDMA phones
Still, there's a catch:

WiFi in Italy? - Fodor's Travel Talk Forums WiFi in Italy?
WiFi in Italy? 21,367
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes  on    0 Posts
travel52, I think AT&T may have misled you slightly. It's not a matter of your phone having "newer" technology than Italy uses, it's a matter of compatible radio frequencies. ( Europe and Asia are generally ahead of the US in cell phone technology actually.) Europe and the US don't use all the same frequencies for cell phones. Generally, you need a "quad band" phone to work in the US or Europe, but many US phones are "tri band" (three frequencies) and lack one of the popular frequencies used in Europe. My old Motorola GSM phone was one of these US tri-band phones, but I found a hack to get it use the three GSM frequencies used in Europe. I bought an Italian SIM card for it once I got to Italy and it worked beautifully everywhere in Italy, Slovenia, and Croatia that I needed to use it. My phone also had a modem and I'm fairly sure I could have figured out how to tether it to my netbook to get internet access everywhere, though that would have probably been more expensive than I was willing to pay. I generally found WiFi where I needed it in Italian cities.

WiFi in Italy? - Fodor's Travel Talk Forums

21,367
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes  on    0 Posts
travel52, I think AT&T may have misled you slightly. It's not a matter of your phone having "newer" technology than Italy uses, it's a matter of compatible radio frequencies. ( Europe and Asia are generally ahead of the US in cell phone technology actually.) Europe and the US don't use all the same frequencies for cell phones. Generally, you need a "quad band" phone to work in the US or Europe, but many US phones are "tri band" (three frequencies) and lack one of the popular frequencies used in Europe. My old Motorola GSM phone was one of these US tri-band phones, but I found a hack to get it use the three GSM frequencies used in Europe. I bought an Italian SIM card for it once I got to Italy and it worked beautifully everywhere in Italy, Slovenia, and Croatia that I needed to use it. My phone also had a modem and I'm fairly sure I could have figured out how to tether it to my netbook to get internet access everywhere, though that would have probably been more expensive than I was willing to pay. I generally found WiFi where I needed it in Italian cities.

The Best Ways to Get a Cell Phone While Traveling in Europe | USA Today The Best Ways to Get a Cell Phone While Traveling in Europe
The Best Ways to Get a Cell Phone While Traveling in Europe
Travel Tips
Buy a Phone In-Store
Buy Prepaid Mobile Online
Auction Sites and Secondhand Stores
Travel Tips Video
Rent a Phone
Alternatives
SIM Card for International Travel
Travel Tips
GSM Technology
Locked vs. Unlocked Devices
Country-Specific Cards
International SIM Card
 Auction Sites and Secondhand Stores
Pick up used cell phones from European auction sites and secondhand electrical stores. You'll need a postal address in Europe for the former unless you want to pay shipping fees to receive the phone before departing on your trip. This is a good option for those who don't want to travel with their fancy smartphone and are equally adverse to shelling out for a new prepaid handset. Travel Tips Video
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Rent a Phone
If you don't want to shell out for new prepaid handset, you can rent one from firms such as Cellhirein the UK, Me Mobile in Spain and Thrifty Car Rental in Ireland. Alternatively, borrow cell phones in the US before you depart from companies such as CellularAbroad, TripTel and TravelCell. If you're staying in Europe for more than a month, renting could be more expensive than buying a pay-as-you-go device. Alternatives
Download a mobile VoIP application such as MobileVoip for Windows Phone, Skype or ooVoo to your US phone and only make calls when you're connected to a free Wi-Fi hotspot. Just make sure you turn data roaming off on your device before you travel. If you have a quad-band or 4G handset, have your phone unlocked and buy a prepaid European SIM card. This will involve calling your network provider and asking for an unlock code.

The Best Ways to Get a Cell Phone While Traveling in Europe | USA Today

The Best Ways to Get a Cell Phone While Traveling in Europe
The Best Ways to Get a Cell Phone While Traveling in Europe
Travel Tips
Buy a Phone In-Store
Buy Prepaid Mobile Online
Auction Sites and Secondhand Stores
Travel Tips Video
Rent a Phone
Alternatives
SIM Card for International Travel
Travel Tips
GSM Technology
Locked vs. Unlocked Devices
Country-Specific Cards
International SIM Card

How Do I Use My Cell Phone While Traveling to Europe? How Do I Use My Cell Phone While Traveling to Europe?
How Do I Use My Cell Phone While Traveling to Europe?
Table of Contents
Using my cell phone while traveling to Europe Talk To Your Current Provider
How to Use Your Smartphone in Europe
What type of phone do I have
Cell Phone While Traveling to Europe and Smartphone Data Plans and Texting
Get A Local SIM Card
Using a European SIM Card
Charging Your Cell Phone in Europe
Prepaid Cell Phones in Europe
Set Up A Mobile Hotspot
TEP Wireless vs Skyroam VS Keepgo When Traveling to Europe
Keepgo
Skyroam
TEP Wireless
Find WiFi and Use Chatting Apps
FREE iPad iPhone Travel Apps for your Cell Phone While Traveling to Europe
Hostel Hero:
Hostelworld:
Stanza:
Every Trail:
What Knot:
Skype (only for iPhone):
iTranslate:
Spending Light:
Convert Everything:
Kayak:
Lonely Planet:
Google Earth:
Wi-Fi Finder:
Using my SmartPhone While Traveling to Europe FAQ
What should I do with my phone when traveling to Europe?
Do I need an international phone plan for Europe?
Do US cell phones work in Europe?
How do you use your phone when traveling internationally?
Sharing is caring!
 You can use your regular plan for calls, text and web browsing, but it will be more expensive. There are international service plans you can sign up for a lower cost, i.e. flat fee or limiting you to a specific number of megabytes. Before doing any of these, make sure first that your phone does work in Europe (you can check with your carrier), and then check the international rates. Before you go to Europe, activate your phone’s international service or call your carrier and ask them to turn on international roaming for data, voice, text or whatever service you plan to use. Once your phone has been set up, you can access Wi-Fi in Wi-Fi hotspots, which are pretty common in the continent. Why Working Remotely is Harder than You Think
Best Apps for Traveling
How Do I Get Internet While Traveling? Using My Cell Phone While Traveling to Europe
Best Mobile Hotspot for Traveling to Europe and Overseas
What type of phone do I have
The easiest way to find what type of phone you have and what phone model, is to check the settings in your phone. Go to the Settings or Options menu, scroll to the bottom, and click on ‘About phone’. The name and model number of your Smartphone will be listed. Cell Phone While Traveling to Europe and Smartphone Data Plans and Texting
If you want to use smartphone data plans and texting in Europe, keep the following things in mind.

You can use your regular plan for calls, text and web browsing, but it will be more expensive. There are international service plans you can sign up for a lower cost, i.e. flat fee or limiting you to a specific number of megabytes. Before doing any of these, make sure first that your phone does work in Europe (you can check with your carrier), and then check the international rates. Before you go to Europe, activate your phone’s international service or call your carrier and ask them to turn on international roaming for data, voice, text or whatever service you plan to use. Once your phone has been set up, you can access Wi-Fi in Wi-Fi hotspots, which are pretty common in the continent. Why Working Remotely is Harder than You Think
Best Apps for Traveling
How Do I Get Internet While Traveling? Using My Cell Phone While Traveling to Europe
Best Mobile Hotspot for Traveling to Europe and Overseas
What type of phone do I have
The easiest way to find what type of phone you have and what phone model, is to check the settings in your phone. Go to the Settings or Options menu, scroll to the bottom, and click on ‘About phone’. The name and model number of your Smartphone will be listed. Cell Phone While Traveling to Europe and Smartphone Data Plans and Texting
If you want to use smartphone data plans and texting in Europe, keep the following things in mind.

How Do I Use My Cell Phone While Traveling to Europe? How Do I Use My Cell Phone While Traveling to Europe?
How Do I Use My Cell Phone While Traveling to Europe?
Table of Contents
Using my cell phone while traveling to Europe Talk To Your Current Provider
How to Use Your Smartphone in Europe
What type of phone do I have
Cell Phone While Traveling to Europe and Smartphone Data Plans and Texting
Get A Local SIM Card
Using a European SIM Card
Charging Your Cell Phone in Europe
Prepaid Cell Phones in Europe
Set Up A Mobile Hotspot
TEP Wireless vs Skyroam VS Keepgo When Traveling to Europe
Keepgo
Skyroam
TEP Wireless
Find WiFi and Use Chatting Apps
FREE iPad iPhone Travel Apps for your Cell Phone While Traveling to Europe
Hostel Hero:
Hostelworld:
Stanza:
Every Trail:
What Knot:
Skype (only for iPhone):
iTranslate:
Spending Light:
Convert Everything:
Kayak:
Lonely Planet:
Google Earth:
Wi-Fi Finder:
Using my SmartPhone While Traveling to Europe FAQ
What should I do with my phone when traveling to Europe?
Do I need an international phone plan for Europe?
Do US cell phones work in Europe?
How do you use your phone when traveling internationally?
Sharing is caring!
 Amsterdam - Netherlands
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People go on vacations all of the time, so it is not outside of the realm of possibility that they have some sort of package that would work best for you. Your Smartphone cell plan provider in advance and speak with them about your options. Make sure that you cancel your international plan when you return home! How to Use Your Smartphone in Europe
If you are from the US or another country, traveling with your smartphone in Europe means additional fees, be it for calls, text or other types of data access. If you are going to use your own phone, decide first how you intend to use it (for calls only, for text, the web etc.). You can use your regular plan for calls, text and web browsing, but it will be more expensive. There are international service plans you can sign up for a lower cost, i.e. flat fee or limiting you to a specific number of megabytes. Before doing any of these, make sure first that your phone does work in Europe (you can check with your carrier), and then check the international rates. Before you go to Europe, activate your phone’s international service or call your carrier and ask them to turn on international roaming for data, voice, text or whatever service you plan to use. Once your phone has been set up, you can access Wi-Fi in Wi-Fi hotspots, which are pretty common in the continent.

Amsterdam - Netherlands
Report this Ad
People go on vacations all of the time, so it is not outside of the realm of possibility that they have some sort of package that would work best for you. Your Smartphone cell plan provider in advance and speak with them about your options. Make sure that you cancel your international plan when you return home! How to Use Your Smartphone in Europe
If you are from the US or another country, traveling with your smartphone in Europe means additional fees, be it for calls, text or other types of data access. If you are going to use your own phone, decide first how you intend to use it (for calls only, for text, the web etc.). You can use your regular plan for calls, text and web browsing, but it will be more expensive. There are international service plans you can sign up for a lower cost, i.e. flat fee or limiting you to a specific number of megabytes. Before doing any of these, make sure first that your phone does work in Europe (you can check with your carrier), and then check the international rates. Before you go to Europe, activate your phone’s international service or call your carrier and ask them to turn on international roaming for data, voice, text or whatever service you plan to use. Once your phone has been set up, you can access Wi-Fi in Wi-Fi hotspots, which are pretty common in the continent.

Guide to Buying a SIM Card in Europe | EuroCheapo.com Buying a SIM card in Europe: The cheapest way to use a smartphone while traveling
Buying a SIM card in Europe: The cheapest way to use a smartphone while traveling
In this article
Traveling abroad? Your smartphone options
Purchasing an international package from your carrier
Winging it without a package
Purchasing a SIM Card abroad
The benefits of buying a SIM card in Europe
How does it work?
What about locked phones?
AT&T customers
T-Mobile customers
Verizon customers
What happens if you can’t unlock your phone?
Use an old phone
Buy a cheap phone in Europe
Buy a cheap phone before leaving for Europe
How do you install the SIM card?
Buying SIM cards in Europe
Considerations when shopping for SIM cards
Package or pay-as-you-go
How much do calls cost
Connection charge
Other countries
Wi-Fi hotspots
Finally, don’t forget…
When you place a SIM card in your phone, your phone number will change.
Your SIM card questions and stories
Heading to Europe? Get our ebook for free!
About the author
Poland: A Budget travel guide to Krakow
 If you can’t unlock your phone, don’t despair. You can simply use another phone. Some people prefer to use a second phone anyhow, leaving their regular phone on standby throughout their trip in case it receives important calls or text messages. ( Remember, if you swap a SIM card into your normal phone, you’ll be changing your phone number.) Here are some other phones you could use. Use an old phone
Most people have an old mobile phone sitting around at home in the back of a drawer somewhere. While it might not be a cutting-edge smartphone, it could still do the job for your trip. Check out your collection of old phones to see if any of them operate with SIM cards. Buy a cheap phone in Europe
Really cheap phones are easy to come by in Europe. Some SIM card packages aimed at tourists even come with a phone to use!

If you can’t unlock your phone, don’t despair. You can simply use another phone. Some people prefer to use a second phone anyhow, leaving their regular phone on standby throughout their trip in case it receives important calls or text messages. ( Remember, if you swap a SIM card into your normal phone, you’ll be changing your phone number.) Here are some other phones you could use. Use an old phone
Most people have an old mobile phone sitting around at home in the back of a drawer somewhere. While it might not be a cutting-edge smartphone, it could still do the job for your trip. Check out your collection of old phones to see if any of them operate with SIM cards. Buy a cheap phone in Europe
Really cheap phones are easy to come by in Europe. Some SIM card packages aimed at tourists even come with a phone to use!

The Best Ways to Get a Cell Phone While Traveling in Europe | USA Today The Best Ways to Get a Cell Phone While Traveling in Europe
The Best Ways to Get a Cell Phone While Traveling in Europe
Travel Tips
Buy a Phone In-Store
Buy Prepaid Mobile Online
Auction Sites and Secondhand Stores
Travel Tips Video
Rent a Phone
Alternatives
SIM Card for International Travel
Travel Tips
GSM Technology
Locked vs. Unlocked Devices
Country-Specific Cards
International SIM Card
 The Best Ways to Get a Cell Phone While Traveling in Europe | USA Today
SIM Card for International Travel
How to Use Cell Phones Abroad
The Best Ways to Get a Cell Phone While Traveling in Europe
Travel Tips
Michael Roennevig, Leaf Group Updated December 01, 2017
Making and getting calls in Europe with a US SIM card can be an expensive business, even if you have a "global" calling plan. Save a lot by picking up a prepaid handset or working things out so you can make cheaper calls from your existing cell phone while traveling. Buy a Phone In-Store
It's not difficult to pick up reasonably priced prepaid handsets in most European countries. You can buy pay-as-you-go phones from mobile network stores, electrical retailers and supermarkets. If you don't mind using a budget handset while you're away, you can grab a prepaid device for the price of a meal for two in a mid-market restaurant, and perhaps even cheaper if you can get by without all the bells and whistles that come with modern smartphones. Buy Prepaid Mobile Online
If you have a European postal address and a major credit card, you'll be able to buy a prepaid mobile online. Just arrange to have your device sent to your hotel or hostel. Once you have your new phone, you'll be able to top it up with call time using a credit card or by visiting local top-up points and paying cash. You might be able to get a better deal online than you would if you bought a new phone in store. Bear in mind that your device will be locked to a European network, unless you're happy to pay more for a SIM-free handset.

The iPhone in Germany and Europe – Part 2 | The German Way & More The iPhone in Germany and Europe – Part 2
The iPhone in Germany and Europe – Part 2
A Guide to Using Your iPhone in Germany
Taking Care of Business Before You Leave
FAQ: Using an iPhone in Germany and Europe
International Text and Data
 For a short-term visit to Europe you can sign up for your carrier’s international roaming plan and data plan. ( T-Mobile USA has the best one. The others charge about a dollar a minute for any outgoing or incoming calls, even local calls.) If you fail to do that and use roaming in Europe, you’ll pay a high price. Without a special plan, data and talk charges can be astronomical. – For a long-term stay (a month or more), you’ll be better off using an unlocked GSM cell phone (such as the iPhone). See more information on this page below. What if I have an iPhone from Sprint or Verizon? If it’s one of the later iPhone models, it will have a SIM slot that can be used with a German or other SIM card. Of course the phone must be unlocked to do that.

For a short-term visit to Europe you can sign up for your carrier’s international roaming plan and data plan. ( T-Mobile USA has the best one. The others charge about a dollar a minute for any outgoing or incoming calls, even local calls.) If you fail to do that and use roaming in Europe, you’ll pay a high price. Without a special plan, data and talk charges can be astronomical. – For a long-term stay (a month or more), you’ll be better off using an unlocked GSM cell phone (such as the iPhone). See more information on this page below. What if I have an iPhone from Sprint or Verizon? If it’s one of the later iPhone models, it will have a SIM slot that can be used with a German or other SIM card. Of course the phone must be unlocked to do that.

The Best International Sim Card For Europe with Data - The World Was Here First The Best International Sim Card For Europe with Data
The Best International Sim Card For Europe with Data
Table of Contents
Best SIM Card for Europe Comparison
Will my Phone Work in Europe?
Does Your Phone Use GSM?
Is My Phone Unlocked?
Best International SIM Card for Europe with Data
Three Prepaid SIM with 12GB Data
Orange Prepaid SIM Card with 20GB Data
EE Prepaid Data SIM Card with 6GB Data
Giffgaff Prepaid SIM with 20GB Data
Cellhire Prepaid SIM Card with 8GB Data
What About Buying a Local SIM Card?
 In North America, whether your phone uses GSM or CDMA will depend on your provider. Out of the major providers in the USA, T-Mobile and AT&T use GSM while Verizon and Sprint have historically used CDMA. However, Verizon is planning on switching off its CDMA network by 2020 and there is talk of other CDMA providers doing the same. In Canada, the use of GSM or CDMA varies by province. If your phone uses CDMA, then these travel SIM cards won’t work in your phone. A possible solution is to buy a cheaper unlocked phone to use for your trip to Europe. You should however do the math and compare the cost of a new phone compared to using an international data pack with your existing provider. Having data makes sharing photos in Europe a lot easier! If you’re planning on going to Europe for more than a couple weeks you might be surprised that buying a new phone and a prepaid SIM card for Europe actually turns out to be cheaper! For example, Verizon, charge $10 per day to use your phone in Europe.

In North America, whether your phone uses GSM or CDMA will depend on your provider. Out of the major providers in the USA, T-Mobile and AT&T use GSM while Verizon and Sprint have historically used CDMA. However, Verizon is planning on switching off its CDMA network by 2020 and there is talk of other CDMA providers doing the same. In Canada, the use of GSM or CDMA varies by province. If your phone uses CDMA, then these travel SIM cards won’t work in your phone. A possible solution is to buy a cheaper unlocked phone to use for your trip to Europe. You should however do the math and compare the cost of a new phone compared to using an international data pack with your existing provider. Having data makes sharing photos in Europe a lot easier! If you’re planning on going to Europe for more than a couple weeks you might be surprised that buying a new phone and a prepaid SIM card for Europe actually turns out to be cheaper! For example, Verizon, charge $10 per day to use your phone in Europe.

Using Verizon in Europe - Fodor's Travel Talk Forums Using Verizon in Europe
Using Verizon in Europe Jan 2003
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Verizon phones, unlike T-Mobile and AT&T (but like Sprint) use CDMA technology in the US to communicate with cell towers. Europe uses GSM, which T-Mobile and AT&T use in the US, too. So a Verizon or Sprint phone in Europe must first know it needs to roam on GSM to pick up anything. I have never used an iPhone overseas. My Android phone (a Verizon CDMA phone) will work on GSM but requires some crazy settings to make it work. If you want to use your Verizon phone in Europe, you first need to figure out how to set it to roam on GSM. This varies by the exact model of your phone. Looks like for an iPhone 6, you need to turn data and voice roaming on:

Using Verizon in Europe - Fodor's Travel Talk Forums

Using Verizon in Europe
Using Verizon in Europe

Jan 2003
Posts: 21,367
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Received 0 Likes  on    0 Posts
Verizon phones, unlike T-Mobile and AT&T (but like Sprint) use CDMA technology in the US to communicate with cell towers. Europe uses GSM, which T-Mobile and AT&T use in the US, too. So a Verizon or Sprint phone in Europe must first know it needs to roam on GSM to pick up anything. I have never used an iPhone overseas. My Android phone (a Verizon CDMA phone) will work on GSM but requires some crazy settings to make it work. If you want to use your Verizon phone in Europe, you first need to figure out how to set it to roam on GSM. This varies by the exact model of your phone. Looks like for an iPhone 6, you need to turn data and voice roaming on:

usa - Do American cellphones work in Europe? - Travel Stack Exchange
Do American cellphones work in Europe?
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 usa - Do American cellphones work in Europe? - Travel Stack Exchange
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I have a Virgin Mobile Pay as you go phone, is there any chance that will work in Hungary, Italy and Germany? usa europe cellphones
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Not that phone. Virgin, in the USA, uses Sprint's network. Sprint uses the CDMA standard. Europe uses a different standard, GSM. The only US phones which can work in Europe are: GSM phones from AT&T and/or T-Mobile, the two GSM providers in the US, as long as the phone supports the same bands as the country you're going to (most phones in the last couple of years are multi-band and will). The newer "world phones" from Verizon, Sprint, and other CDMA carriers, (including the iPhones 4S and 5) which support both CDMA and GSM.

usa - Do American cellphones work in Europe? - Travel Stack Exchange
Do American cellphones work in Europe? Ask Question
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I have a Virgin Mobile Pay as you go phone, is there any chance that will work in Hungary, Italy and Germany? usa europe cellphones
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edited Oct 19 '11 at 16:21
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Not that phone. Virgin, in the USA, uses Sprint's network. Sprint uses the CDMA standard. Europe uses a different standard, GSM. The only US phones which can work in Europe are: GSM phones from AT&T and/or T-Mobile, the two GSM providers in the US, as long as the phone supports the same bands as the country you're going to (most phones in the last couple of years are multi-band and will). The newer "world phones" from Verizon, Sprint, and other CDMA carriers, (including the iPhones 4S and 5) which support both CDMA and GSM.

How to Use Smartphone and Data Plans in Europe How to Use a Smartphone and Data Plans Abroad
How to Use a Smartphone and Data Plans Abroad
The Basics: PHONES AND DATA PLANS IN EUROPE
Will Your Phone Work Abroad?
Ways To Use Your Phone In Europe
International Roaming (Easy But Expensive)
International Data Plan (Easy But Slightly More Affordable)
Pre-Paid SIM Card w/ Data (A Hassle But Most Affordable)
Where To Buy SIM Cards
A Look At US Carrier Plans and Options
T-Mobile
Sprint
Verizon
TravelPass
Monthly International Travel Pricing
Pay as You Go pricing
AT&T
AT&T International Day Pass
AT&T Passport
Do You Even Need a Data Plan?
So Should You Get A Data Plan?
Tips For Using Only WiFi and/or Lowering Your Data Usage
OTHER TIPS AND ADVICE
No Funny Business
 For example, anything newer than an iPhone 4S will work perfectly fine in Europe. If you have an Android or Windows phone through Verizon and Sprint, be sure to check if it’s a “world phone” (i.e., it’s GSM compatible) — most modern phones should be fine. If your phone isn’t compatible, check with your service provider as some will rent you a phone for a few weeks/months. Ways To Use Your Phone In Europe
International Roaming (Easy But Expensive)
Most American carriers have partnerships with carriers overseas so your phone will automatically connect to that partner’s mobile/data services. You don’t have to do anything. It just connects. The downside? International roaming, especially when it comes to using data, can be insanely expensive. You can easily spend $50 sending a few emails and viewing a web page or two. Even a short call or a few text messages can cost you a lot.

For example, anything newer than an iPhone 4S will work perfectly fine in Europe. If you have an Android or Windows phone through Verizon and Sprint, be sure to check if it’s a “world phone” (i.e., it’s GSM compatible) — most modern phones should be fine. If your phone isn’t compatible, check with your service provider as some will rent you a phone for a few weeks/months. Ways To Use Your Phone In Europe
International Roaming (Easy But Expensive)
Most American carriers have partnerships with carriers overseas so your phone will automatically connect to that partner’s mobile/data services. You don’t have to do anything. It just connects. The downside? International roaming, especially when it comes to using data, can be insanely expensive. You can easily spend $50 sending a few emails and viewing a web page or two. Even a short call or a few text messages can cost you a lot.

How to Use Smartphone and Data Plans in Europe How to Use a Smartphone and Data Plans Abroad
How to Use a Smartphone and Data Plans Abroad
The Basics: PHONES AND DATA PLANS IN EUROPE
Will Your Phone Work Abroad?
Ways To Use Your Phone In Europe
International Roaming (Easy But Expensive)
International Data Plan (Easy But Slightly More Affordable)
Pre-Paid SIM Card w/ Data (A Hassle But Most Affordable)
Where To Buy SIM Cards
A Look At US Carrier Plans and Options
T-Mobile
Sprint
Verizon
TravelPass
Monthly International Travel Pricing
Pay as You Go pricing
AT&T
AT&T International Day Pass
AT&T Passport
Do You Even Need a Data Plan?
So Should You Get A Data Plan?
Tips For Using Only WiFi and/or Lowering Your Data Usage
OTHER TIPS AND ADVICE
No Funny Business
 How to Use Smartphone and Data Plans in Europe
How to Use a Smartphone and Data Plans Abroad
Everything you need to know about using mobile phones, smartphones, SIM cards, and pre-paid data plans in Europe — without spending a fortune. phones and technology
January 25, 2017
Originally posted JULY 13, 2014 and updated January 25, 2017
There is no denying that smartphones and data plans come in super handy when you’re traveling — especially for things like Google Maps and getting restaurant recommendations on the go. Unfortunately, using your iPhone, Android, or other smartphones in Europe can be a little confusing, and expensive if you’re not careful. Things get even more confusing because each carrier handles things differently, so some charge a huge amount to use your phone abroad and some offer free service. This guide should help clear up any questions you might have any help you find the best option for your travel style. The Basics: PHONES AND DATA PLANS IN EUROPE
Will Your Phone Work Abroad? Short Answer: Yes. Any modern phone that’s newer than an iPhone 4S should work in Europe.

How to Use Smartphone and Data Plans in Europe
How to Use a Smartphone and Data Plans Abroad
Everything you need to know about using mobile phones, smartphones, SIM cards, and pre-paid data plans in Europe — without spending a fortune. phones and technology
January 25, 2017
Originally posted JULY 13, 2014 and updated January 25, 2017
There is no denying that smartphones and data plans come in super handy when you’re traveling — especially for things like Google Maps and getting restaurant recommendations on the go. Unfortunately, using your iPhone, Android, or other smartphones in Europe can be a little confusing, and expensive if you’re not careful. Things get even more confusing because each carrier handles things differently, so some charge a huge amount to use your phone abroad and some offer free service. This guide should help clear up any questions you might have any help you find the best option for your travel style. The Basics: PHONES AND DATA PLANS IN EUROPE
Will Your Phone Work Abroad? Short Answer: Yes. Any modern phone that’s newer than an iPhone 4S should work in Europe.

Visiting Or Moving To the UK: Best SIM Cards & Using Your Cellphone Visiting Or Moving To the UK: Using Your Cellphone & Best SIM Cards
Visiting Or Moving To the UK: Using Your Cellphone & Best SIM Cards
Contents
Cell Phone & Network Compatibility
Network Frequencies & Bands
Roaming VS Using A UK SIM Card
Getting a UK SIM Card
Using Your Phone In Europe
Other Useful Information
Terminology
International Dialling
Useful Resources
Frequently Asked Questions
 Before you’re able to do this, you’ll need to be a UK resident and you’ll need to be able to pass a UK credit check. You’ll also need a UK bank account from which your monthly Direct Debit payments can be taken. For this reason, unless you’ve already lived in the UK for a significant amount of time, we’d recommend getting a prepaid deal such as giffgaff which doesn’t require you to pass a UK credit check. Using Your Phone In Europe
If you’re combining a trip to the UK with a trip to mainland Europe, you can continue using your SIM card whilst you’re there at no extra cost. This is because of the EU’s Roam Like At Home policy, which will remain in effect until the 31st December 2020 (with a possible extension depending on UK-EU agreement). Your prepaid UK SIM card can currently be used at no additional cost in the following European countries: Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Gibraltar, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Israel, Italy (includes Sardinia and Sicily), Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal (includes Azores and Madeira), the Republic of Ireland, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain (includes Canary Islands and Balearic Islands) and Sweden
Likewise, if you have a SIM card from another European country, you can use it in the UK at no additional cost. If you’re travelling to Guernsey, the Isle of Man, Jersey, Monaco or Switzerland, you should check whether your usage there will be covered by European roaming. Some UK networks go beyond inclusive roaming in Europe. For instance, a prepaid SIM card from Three can be used at no extra cost in 71 destinations.

Visiting Or Moving To the UK: Best SIM Cards & Using Your Cellphone

Visiting Or Moving To the UK: Using Your Cellphone & Best SIM Cards
Visiting Or Moving To the UK: Using Your Cellphone & Best SIM Cards
Contents
Cell Phone & Network Compatibility
Network Frequencies & Bands
Roaming VS Using A UK SIM Card
Getting a UK SIM Card
Using Your Phone In Europe
Other Useful Information
Terminology
International Dialling
Useful Resources
Frequently Asked Questions

Does Verizon Work in England? - Rick Steves Travel Forum Does Verizon Work in England?
Does Verizon Work in England? Some of Verizon's phone are dual/quad band...CDMA in the US and GSM overseas. The following Verizon's phones will work in Europe...some may need a sim card--which Verizon will supply--and others have it built in: Blackberry Storm
Blackberry World Edition 8830
Samsung Saga
Samsung Reknown
Motorla Moto World Edition
If you don't have one of these phones, and your trip is for less than three weeks, Verizon has a Global Travel Program which allows you to "borrow" a global phone for free, transfer your phone's data and number over to it, and then use it in Europe. When you return, you just send it back and reactivate your regular phone. The only thing you pay for is usage. ( Not cheap but people can contact you at your phone number.) If your trip is more than three weeks, then either renting or buying is the way to go. Posted by Kent
US Pacific Northwest
01/27/09 02:13 PM
10344 posts
Frank: Oh oh, my bad. Looks like I'm in over my head on this one, so I'll leave it to you and Ken (two of our phone gurus) to clarify this.

Does Verizon Work in England? - Rick Steves Travel Forum

Does Verizon Work in England?
Does Verizon Work in England?

Some of Verizon's phone are dual/quad band...CDMA in the US and GSM overseas. The following Verizon's phones will work in Europe...some may need a sim card--which Verizon will supply--and others have it built in: Blackberry Storm
Blackberry World Edition 8830
Samsung Saga
Samsung Reknown
Motorla Moto World Edition
If you don't have one of these phones, and your trip is for less than three weeks, Verizon has a Global Travel Program which allows you to "borrow" a global phone for free, transfer your phone's data and number over to it, and then use it in Europe. When you return, you just send it back and reactivate your regular phone. The only thing you pay for is usage. ( Not cheap but people can contact you at your phone number.) If your trip is more than three weeks, then either renting or buying is the way to go. Posted by Kent
US Pacific Northwest
01/27/09 02:13 PM
10344 posts
Frank: Oh oh, my bad. Looks like I'm in over my head on this one, so I'll leave it to you and Ken (two of our phone gurus) to clarify this.

The Best Ways to Get a Cell Phone While Traveling in Europe | USA Today The Best Ways to Get a Cell Phone While Traveling in Europe
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If you have a European postal address and a major credit card, you'll be able to buy a prepaid mobile online. Just arrange to have your device sent to your hotel or hostel. Once you have your new phone, you'll be able to top it up with call time using a credit card or by visiting local top-up points and paying cash. You might be able to get a better deal online than you would if you bought a new phone in store. Bear in mind that your device will be locked to a European network, unless you're happy to pay more for a SIM-free handset. Auction Sites and Secondhand Stores
Pick up used cell phones from European auction sites and secondhand electrical stores. You'll need a postal address in Europe for the former unless you want to pay shipping fees to receive the phone before departing on your trip. This is a good option for those who don't want to travel with their fancy smartphone and are equally adverse to shelling out for a new prepaid handset. Travel Tips Video
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If you don't want to shell out for new prepaid handset, you can rent one from firms such as Cellhirein the UK, Me Mobile in Spain and Thrifty Car Rental in Ireland. Alternatively, borrow cell phones in the US before you depart from companies such as CellularAbroad, TripTel and TravelCell.

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 You will need a GSM phone that works on both the 900 MHz and 1800 MHz bands for use in the UK and/or Europe. Such phones are often described as "tri-band" or "quad-band". Check the specification of your phone in the product manual, or with your provider, or at GSM Arena by entering the model number in the 'quick search' box. Most "3G" handsets (900 MHz, 1800 MHz, and/or 2100 MHz) will work in most urban areas of UK and Europe, giving enhanced web and email access, as well as being usable for normal talk and text services. Do beware of roaming data charges, as internet access will be *very* expensive. What's GSM? GSM stands for Global System for Mobile Communication and is used across Europe and many other places around the world. But not in the US. GSM phones can be 'locked' to a network but they can be unlocked to allow you to use all the networks in the UK. You will also need a SIM card.

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You will need a GSM phone that works on both the 900 MHz and 1800 MHz bands for use in the UK and/or Europe. Such phones are often described as "tri-band" or "quad-band". Check the specification of your phone in the product manual, or with your provider, or at GSM Arena by entering the model number in the 'quick search' box. Most "3G" handsets (900 MHz, 1800 MHz, and/or 2100 MHz) will work in most urban areas of UK and Europe, giving enhanced web and email access, as well as being usable for normal talk and text services. Do beware of roaming data charges, as internet access will be *very* expensive. What's GSM? GSM stands for Global System for Mobile Communication and is used across Europe and many other places around the world. But not in the US. GSM phones can be 'locked' to a network but they can be unlocked to allow you to use all the networks in the UK. You will also need a SIM card.

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Our International mobile hotspot is an easy way to stay connected during your travels. No more searching for WiFi. No more worrying about security breaches. Stay connected 24/7 while traveling in Europe, Australia, NZ, South America and other destinations. The Mobile Hotspot is available for Rent or Purchase. Europe Unlimited iPhone Rental
Rent an Android or an iPhone 4, 6 or X with unlimited high speed data, calling and texts within the EU! This is the perfect solution for travelers who want to use their phone in Europe as much as they do back home without paying high roaming fees.

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Our International mobile hotspot is an easy way to stay connected during your travels. No more searching for WiFi. No more worrying about security breaches. Stay connected 24/7 while traveling in Europe, Australia, NZ, South America and other destinations. The Mobile Hotspot is available for Rent or Purchase. Europe Unlimited iPhone Rental
Rent an Android or an iPhone 4, 6 or X with unlimited high speed data, calling and texts within the EU! This is the perfect solution for travelers who want to use their phone in Europe as much as they do back home without paying high roaming fees.

Using a European SIM Card by Rick Steves Using a European SIM Card
Using a European SIM Card
By Rick Steves
 Generally with a European SIM card, it's free to receive domestic texts and calls, about 2–20 cents/minute to make domestic calls and calls within the EU, and 5–15 cents to send a text within the EU. For the best rates, buy a new SIM card every time you arrive in a new country. To get a European SIM, you'll need to do the following: 1. Make sure you're equipped with a proper phone. You'll need either a European phone or an unlocked phone in order for a European SIM card to work (some phones are electronically "locked" so you can't switch SIM cards). Check with your carrier — it's possible the phone you have is already unlocked, as this feature is becoming more common in newer models. Otherwise, you can try asking your provider if they'll unlock it for you. Remember that as long as you have a European SIM in your own phone, you won't be reachable at your regular US number. If it's not possible to unlock your phone, you can buy an unlocked phone either before your trip or at your destination (it's around $40 for a basic unlocked phone).

Generally with a European SIM card, it's free to receive domestic texts and calls, about 2–20 cents/minute to make domestic calls and calls within the EU, and 5–15 cents to send a text within the EU. For the best rates, buy a new SIM card every time you arrive in a new country. To get a European SIM, you'll need to do the following: 1. Make sure you're equipped with a proper phone. You'll need either a European phone or an unlocked phone in order for a European SIM card to work (some phones are electronically "locked" so you can't switch SIM cards). Check with your carrier — it's possible the phone you have is already unlocked, as this feature is becoming more common in newer models. Otherwise, you can try asking your provider if they'll unlock it for you. Remember that as long as you have a European SIM in your own phone, you won't be reachable at your regular US number. If it's not possible to unlock your phone, you can buy an unlocked phone either before your trip or at your destination (it's around $40 for a basic unlocked phone).

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 Act like a local
If you'd rather take your own phone, you'll first need to make sure it's "unlocked," meaning it can be used on any cellular network not just the one you typically use. AT&T will let you unlock your device permanently once your contract expires. Before that, AT&T will let you unlock up to five times per year for international travel. ( Click here for more specifics.) Some Verizon phones—including the iPhone 5 and 6—are sold unlocked, and the carrier has its full rules on the unlocking process online. Once your phone is unlocked, you can purchase a local SIM card in your destination and use your phone on the local network. You’ll have to pay a few dollars for the SIM card—and spend part of your trip inside a cell phone store—but typically you can get good local pre-paid rates this way. Vodafone, one of the top carriers in Europe, for example, sells SIM cards that provide 100 megabytes of data anywhere in a 35-nation "Europe Zone" for about $4.50 per day. ( Most people use less than 100 megabytes every day.) Try a travel-specific plan
MTX Connect, a mobile operator that provides data-only plans, has launched a new pay-as-you-go service for U.S. travelers going to any of 30 European countries.

Act like a local
If you'd rather take your own phone, you'll first need to make sure it's "unlocked," meaning it can be used on any cellular network not just the one you typically use. AT&T will let you unlock your device permanently once your contract expires. Before that, AT&T will let you unlock up to five times per year for international travel. ( Click here for more specifics.) Some Verizon phones—including the iPhone 5 and 6—are sold unlocked, and the carrier has its full rules on the unlocking process online. Once your phone is unlocked, you can purchase a local SIM card in your destination and use your phone on the local network. You’ll have to pay a few dollars for the SIM card—and spend part of your trip inside a cell phone store—but typically you can get good local pre-paid rates this way. Vodafone, one of the top carriers in Europe, for example, sells SIM cards that provide 100 megabytes of data anywhere in a 35-nation "Europe Zone" for about $4.50 per day. ( Most people use less than 100 megabytes every day.) Try a travel-specific plan
MTX Connect, a mobile operator that provides data-only plans, has launched a new pay-as-you-go service for U.S. travelers going to any of 30 European countries.

How to Buy a Prepaid Phone in Europe: 14 Steps (with Pictures) How to Buy a Prepaid Phone in Europe
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1
Research your phone-buying strategy before reaching Europe. Although there is some standardization across the nations in the European Union (EU), buying a prepaid phone depends a great deal on which nation or nations you’ll be travelling to. A few days or (better yet) weeks before departing, search “buying a prepaid phone in …” and the names of the countries you’ll be visiting. Keep the following in mind as well: All European mobile phones (EU and non-EU) operate on the GSM system, as opposed to the CDMA system used in North America and some parts of Asia. CDMA-only phones won’t work in Europe. GSM phones always require an installed SIM card that’s affiliated with a mobile carrier in order to operate on a mobile network. You can buy a new SIM card (with or without a phone) in each country you visit, or use the same SIM card throughout the EU without incurring roaming charges—up to a set limit. SIM cards are easy to buy in most European countries, but some, like Germany, have significant security-related restrictions that make the process much less convenient for tourists. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/2\/22\/Buy-a-Prepaid-Phone-in-Europe-Step-2-Version-2.jpg\/v4-460px-Buy-a-Prepaid-Phone-in-Europe-Step-2-Version-2.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/2\/22\/Buy-a-Prepaid-Phone-in-Europe-Step-2-Version-2.jpg\/aid1579358-v4-728px-Buy-a-Prepaid-Phone-in-Europe-Step-2-Version-2.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"

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How to Buy a Prepaid Phone in Europe: 14 Steps (with Pictures)

How to Buy a Prepaid Phone in Europe
How to Buy a Prepaid Phone in Europe
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WiFi in Italy? - Fodor's Travel Talk Forums WiFi in Italy?
WiFi in Italy? 21,367
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travel52, I think AT&T may have misled you slightly. It's not a matter of your phone having "newer" technology than Italy uses, it's a matter of compatible radio frequencies. ( Europe and Asia are generally ahead of the US in cell phone technology actually.) Europe and the US don't use all the same frequencies for cell phones. Generally, you need a "quad band" phone to work in the US or Europe, but many US phones are "tri band" (three frequencies) and lack one of the popular frequencies used in Europe. My old Motorola GSM phone was one of these US tri-band phones, but I found a hack to get it use the three GSM frequencies used in Europe. I bought an Italian SIM card for it once I got to Italy and it worked beautifully everywhere in Italy, Slovenia, and Croatia that I needed to use it. My phone also had a modem and I'm fairly sure I could have figured out how to tether it to my netbook to get internet access everywhere, though that would have probably been more expensive than I was willing to pay. I generally found WiFi where I needed it in Italian cities.

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travel52, I think AT&T may have misled you slightly. It's not a matter of your phone having "newer" technology than Italy uses, it's a matter of compatible radio frequencies. ( Europe and Asia are generally ahead of the US in cell phone technology actually.) Europe and the US don't use all the same frequencies for cell phones. Generally, you need a "quad band" phone to work in the US or Europe, but many US phones are "tri band" (three frequencies) and lack one of the popular frequencies used in Europe. My old Motorola GSM phone was one of these US tri-band phones, but I found a hack to get it use the three GSM frequencies used in Europe. I bought an Italian SIM card for it once I got to Italy and it worked beautifully everywhere in Italy, Slovenia, and Croatia that I needed to use it. My phone also had a modem and I'm fairly sure I could have figured out how to tether it to my netbook to get internet access everywhere, though that would have probably been more expensive than I was willing to pay. I generally found WiFi where I needed it in Italian cities.

How Do I Use My Cell Phone While Traveling to Europe? How Do I Use My Cell Phone While Traveling to Europe?
How Do I Use My Cell Phone While Traveling to Europe?
Table of Contents
Using my cell phone while traveling to Europe Talk To Your Current Provider
How to Use Your Smartphone in Europe
What type of phone do I have
Cell Phone While Traveling to Europe and Smartphone Data Plans and Texting
Get A Local SIM Card
Using a European SIM Card
Charging Your Cell Phone in Europe
Prepaid Cell Phones in Europe
Set Up A Mobile Hotspot
TEP Wireless vs Skyroam VS Keepgo When Traveling to Europe
Keepgo
Skyroam
TEP Wireless
Find WiFi and Use Chatting Apps
FREE iPad iPhone Travel Apps for your Cell Phone While Traveling to Europe
Hostel Hero:
Hostelworld:
Stanza:
Every Trail:
What Knot:
Skype (only for iPhone):
iTranslate:
Spending Light:
Convert Everything:
Kayak:
Lonely Planet:
Google Earth:
Wi-Fi Finder:
Using my SmartPhone While Traveling to Europe FAQ
What should I do with my phone when traveling to Europe?
Do I need an international phone plan for Europe?
Do US cell phones work in Europe?
How do you use your phone when traveling internationally?
Sharing is caring!
 Using my SmartPhone While Traveling to Europe FAQ
What should I do with my phone when traveling to Europe? Do I need an international phone plan for Europe? Do US cell phones work in Europe? How do you use your phone when traveling internationally? Using my cell phone while traveling to Europe Talk To Your Current Provider
Your current provider probably has some kind of international plan that will allow you to use your cell phone while traveling to Europe. Amsterdam - Netherlands
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People go on vacations all of the time, so it is not outside of the realm of possibility that they have some sort of package that would work best for you. Your Smartphone cell plan provider in advance and speak with them about your options. Make sure that you cancel your international plan when you return home! How to Use Your Smartphone in Europe
If you are from the US or another country, traveling with your smartphone in Europe means additional fees, be it for calls, text or other types of data access. If you are going to use your own phone, decide first how you intend to use it (for calls only, for text, the web etc.).

Using my SmartPhone While Traveling to Europe FAQ
What should I do with my phone when traveling to Europe? Do I need an international phone plan for Europe? Do US cell phones work in Europe? How do you use your phone when traveling internationally? Using my cell phone while traveling to Europe Talk To Your Current Provider
Your current provider probably has some kind of international plan that will allow you to use your cell phone while traveling to Europe. Amsterdam - Netherlands
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People go on vacations all of the time, so it is not outside of the realm of possibility that they have some sort of package that would work best for you. Your Smartphone cell plan provider in advance and speak with them about your options. Make sure that you cancel your international plan when you return home! How to Use Your Smartphone in Europe
If you are from the US or another country, traveling with your smartphone in Europe means additional fees, be it for calls, text or other types of data access. If you are going to use your own phone, decide first how you intend to use it (for calls only, for text, the web etc.).

Does Verizon Work in England? - Rick Steves Travel Forum Does Verizon Work in England?
Does Verizon Work in England? I believe Verizon have a rental program and can provide a "dual technology" phone that will operate in GSM service areas. Be VERY clear on the rates though, so that you'll have a good idea what this will cost. You could also check Cellular Abroad, as they offer rental phones OR you could pick up an inexpensive PAYG Phone when you arrive in the U.K.
Happy travels! Posted by Frank II
Freedonia
01/27/09 01:55 PM
9093 posts
Wow...I get to correct Kent. ( A rarity)
It depends on which phone you have. Some of Verizon's phone are dual/quad band...CDMA in the US and GSM overseas. The following Verizon's phones will work in Europe...some may need a sim card--which Verizon will supply--and others have it built in: Blackberry Storm
Blackberry World Edition 8830
Samsung Saga
Samsung Reknown
Motorla Moto World Edition
If you don't have one of these phones, and your trip is for less than three weeks, Verizon has a Global Travel Program which allows you to "borrow" a global phone for free, transfer your phone's data and number over to it, and then use it in Europe. When you return, you just send it back and reactivate your regular phone. The only thing you pay for is usage. (

I believe Verizon have a rental program and can provide a "dual technology" phone that will operate in GSM service areas. Be VERY clear on the rates though, so that you'll have a good idea what this will cost. You could also check Cellular Abroad, as they offer rental phones OR you could pick up an inexpensive PAYG Phone when you arrive in the U.K.
Happy travels! Posted by Frank II
Freedonia
01/27/09 01:55 PM
9093 posts
Wow...I get to correct Kent. ( A rarity)
It depends on which phone you have. Some of Verizon's phone are dual/quad band...CDMA in the US and GSM overseas. The following Verizon's phones will work in Europe...some may need a sim card--which Verizon will supply--and others have it built in: Blackberry Storm
Blackberry World Edition 8830
Samsung Saga
Samsung Reknown
Motorla Moto World Edition
If you don't have one of these phones, and your trip is for less than three weeks, Verizon has a Global Travel Program which allows you to "borrow" a global phone for free, transfer your phone's data and number over to it, and then use it in Europe. When you return, you just send it back and reactivate your regular phone. The only thing you pay for is usage. (

Bringing my Tracfone to Europe?
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Originally Posted by IsLand_BoY
Some TracFones like the W376 are triband so technically they do have the capability but my guess is TracFone prevents usage there by preventing the SIM from ever registering on the foreign network. Tracfones don't have a roaming agreement overseas, so the phone will register as SOS only. 06-08-2010, 08:45 AM #6
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I looked at various options for a cellular handset to use on a European trip. The AT&T and Tracfone LG225 are quad band handsets that can be used in Europe. An unlocked AT&T version can be used by simply replacing the SIM Card.

Bringing my Tracfone to Europe?

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05-28-2010, 08:35 PM #5
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Originally Posted by IsLand_BoY
Some TracFones like the W376 are triband so technically they do have the capability but my guess is TracFone prevents usage there by preventing the SIM from ever registering on the foreign network. Tracfones don't have a roaming agreement overseas, so the phone will register as SOS only. 06-08-2010, 08:45 AM #6
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I looked at various options for a cellular handset to use on a European trip. The AT&T and Tracfone LG225 are quad band handsets that can be used in Europe. An unlocked AT&T version can be used by simply replacing the SIM Card.

Using Verizon in Europe - Fodor's Travel Talk Forums Using Verizon in Europe
Using Verizon in Europe Thanks for the head's up. Reply
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I used the $10 per day version in August (in the UK) and didn't have that problem
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Verizon phones, unlike T-Mobile and AT&T (but like Sprint) use CDMA technology in the US to communicate with cell towers. Europe uses GSM, which T-Mobile and AT&T use in the US, too. So a Verizon or Sprint phone in Europe must first know it needs to roam on GSM to pick up anything.

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Oct 8th, 2016, 04:37 PM
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I used the $10 per day version in August (in the UK) and didn't have that problem
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Oct 8th, 2016, 06:39 PM
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Verizon phones, unlike T-Mobile and AT&T (but like Sprint) use CDMA technology in the US to communicate with cell towers. Europe uses GSM, which T-Mobile and AT&T use in the US, too. So a Verizon or Sprint phone in Europe must first know it needs to roam on GSM to pick up anything.

The Best Ways to Get a Cell Phone While Traveling in Europe | USA Today The Best Ways to Get a Cell Phone While Traveling in Europe
The Best Ways to Get a Cell Phone While Traveling in Europe
Travel Tips
Buy a Phone In-Store
Buy Prepaid Mobile Online
Auction Sites and Secondhand Stores
Travel Tips Video
Rent a Phone
Alternatives
SIM Card for International Travel
Travel Tips
GSM Technology
Locked vs. Unlocked Devices
Country-Specific Cards
International SIM Card
 If you're staying in Europe for more than a month, renting could be more expensive than buying a pay-as-you-go device. Alternatives
Download a mobile VoIP application such as MobileVoip for Windows Phone, Skype or ooVoo to your US phone and only make calls when you're connected to a free Wi-Fi hotspot. Just make sure you turn data roaming off on your device before you travel. If you have a quad-band or 4G handset, have your phone unlocked and buy a prepaid European SIM card. This will involve calling your network provider and asking for an unlock code. You'll typically be charged for this, especially if you're still under contract. If you're visiting multiple European countries, buy a new SIM for every region you visit. If you bought your device SIM-free, you won't need an unlock code. References
Boston University: Cell Phones in Dresden
Budget Travel:

If you're staying in Europe for more than a month, renting could be more expensive than buying a pay-as-you-go device. Alternatives
Download a mobile VoIP application such as MobileVoip for Windows Phone, Skype or ooVoo to your US phone and only make calls when you're connected to a free Wi-Fi hotspot. Just make sure you turn data roaming off on your device before you travel. If you have a quad-band or 4G handset, have your phone unlocked and buy a prepaid European SIM card. This will involve calling your network provider and asking for an unlock code. You'll typically be charged for this, especially if you're still under contract. If you're visiting multiple European countries, buy a new SIM for every region you visit. If you bought your device SIM-free, you won't need an unlock code. References
Boston University: Cell Phones in Dresden
Budget Travel:

How Do I Use My Cell Phone While Traveling to Europe? How Do I Use My Cell Phone While Traveling to Europe?
How Do I Use My Cell Phone While Traveling to Europe?
Table of Contents
Using my cell phone while traveling to Europe Talk To Your Current Provider
How to Use Your Smartphone in Europe
What type of phone do I have
Cell Phone While Traveling to Europe and Smartphone Data Plans and Texting
Get A Local SIM Card
Using a European SIM Card
Charging Your Cell Phone in Europe
Prepaid Cell Phones in Europe
Set Up A Mobile Hotspot
TEP Wireless vs Skyroam VS Keepgo When Traveling to Europe
Keepgo
Skyroam
TEP Wireless
Find WiFi and Use Chatting Apps
FREE iPad iPhone Travel Apps for your Cell Phone While Traveling to Europe
Hostel Hero:
Hostelworld:
Stanza:
Every Trail:
What Knot:
Skype (only for iPhone):
iTranslate:
Spending Light:
Convert Everything:
Kayak:
Lonely Planet:
Google Earth:
Wi-Fi Finder:
Using my SmartPhone While Traveling to Europe FAQ
What should I do with my phone when traveling to Europe?
Do I need an international phone plan for Europe?
Do US cell phones work in Europe?
How do you use your phone when traveling internationally?
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 How Do I Use My Cell Phone While Traveling to Europe? How Do I Use My Cell Phone While Traveling to Europe? Cell Phone While Traveling to Europe – In today’s connected world, it’s more important than ever before to be able to access our network at any time. Fortunately, these days we have plenty of different options. You can still use your cell phone while traveling to Europe if you plan properly and use all of the tools at your disposal. One word of advice: Don’t just use your plan without speaking with your provider. You could rack up hundreds, or even thousands of dollars in roaming fees. Avoid sticker shock with your next phone bill by being smart and planning in advance. A lot of travelers prefer to use their own cell phone while traveling to Europe, and some even like to bring their other mobile devices for email, communications, watching videos, browsing the Web and so on.

How Do I Use My Cell Phone While Traveling to Europe? How Do I Use My Cell Phone While Traveling to Europe? Cell Phone While Traveling to Europe – In today’s connected world, it’s more important than ever before to be able to access our network at any time. Fortunately, these days we have plenty of different options. You can still use your cell phone while traveling to Europe if you plan properly and use all of the tools at your disposal. One word of advice: Don’t just use your plan without speaking with your provider. You could rack up hundreds, or even thousands of dollars in roaming fees. Avoid sticker shock with your next phone bill by being smart and planning in advance. A lot of travelers prefer to use their own cell phone while traveling to Europe, and some even like to bring their other mobile devices for email, communications, watching videos, browsing the Web and so on.

Bringing my Tracfone to Europe?
Thread: Bringing my Tracfone to Europe?
Bringing my Tracfone to Europe?
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Originally Posted by IsLand_BoY
Some TracFones like the W376 are triband so technically they do have the capability but my guess is TracFone prevents usage there by preventing the SIM from ever registering on the foreign network. Tracfones don't have a roaming agreement overseas, so the phone will register as SOS only. 06-08-2010, 08:45 AM #6
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I looked at various options for a cellular handset to use on a European trip. The AT&T and Tracfone LG225 are quad band handsets that can be used in Europe. An unlocked AT&T version can be used by simply replacing the SIM Card. The Tracfone version uses proprietary firmware which must be replaced to use on any other GSM Network. The cost of a Tracfone LG225 and the fee a dealer charges to make it compatible can make using the LG225 impractical. If you can get an unlocked AT&T LG225 at a reasonable price on ebay or craigslist might be a low cost solution. On the other hand there are very reasonably priced basic GSM handsets available at dealers in Europe. 06-08-2010, 09:42 AM #7
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I've bought 2 quadband T-Mobile branded phone off Craiglist for $20 each.

Bringing my Tracfone to Europe?

The Best Ways to Get a Cell Phone While Traveling in Europe | USA Today The Best Ways to Get a Cell Phone While Traveling in Europe
The Best Ways to Get a Cell Phone While Traveling in Europe
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 You'll typically be charged for this, especially if you're still under contract. If you're visiting multiple European countries, buy a new SIM for every region you visit. If you bought your device SIM-free, you won't need an unlock code. References
Boston University: Cell Phones in Dresden
Budget Travel: Using Your Cell Phone in Europe
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Thrifty: Mobile Phone Rental
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Microsoft: MobileVoip
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Michael Roennevig has been a journalist since 2003.

You'll typically be charged for this, especially if you're still under contract. If you're visiting multiple European countries, buy a new SIM for every region you visit. If you bought your device SIM-free, you won't need an unlock code. References
Boston University: Cell Phones in Dresden
Budget Travel: Using Your Cell Phone in Europe
Resources
Cellhire
Me Mobile
Thrifty: Mobile Phone Rental
CellularAbroad
TripTel
TravelCell
Microsoft: MobileVoip
Skype: Skype for iPhone
ooVoo: Mobile
Writer Bio
Michael Roennevig has been a journalist since 2003.

How Do I Use My Cell Phone While Traveling to Europe? How Do I Use My Cell Phone While Traveling to Europe?
How Do I Use My Cell Phone While Traveling to Europe?
Table of Contents
Using my cell phone while traveling to Europe Talk To Your Current Provider
How to Use Your Smartphone in Europe
What type of phone do I have
Cell Phone While Traveling to Europe and Smartphone Data Plans and Texting
Get A Local SIM Card
Using a European SIM Card
Charging Your Cell Phone in Europe
Prepaid Cell Phones in Europe
Set Up A Mobile Hotspot
TEP Wireless vs Skyroam VS Keepgo When Traveling to Europe
Keepgo
Skyroam
TEP Wireless
Find WiFi and Use Chatting Apps
FREE iPad iPhone Travel Apps for your Cell Phone While Traveling to Europe
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Google Earth:
Wi-Fi Finder:
Using my SmartPhone While Traveling to Europe FAQ
What should I do with my phone when traveling to Europe?
Do I need an international phone plan for Europe?
Do US cell phones work in Europe?
How do you use your phone when traveling internationally?
Sharing is caring!
 Convert Everything: Kayak: Lonely Planet: Google Earth: Wi-Fi Finder: Using my SmartPhone While Traveling to Europe FAQ
What should I do with my phone when traveling to Europe? Do I need an international phone plan for Europe? Do US cell phones work in Europe? How do you use your phone when traveling internationally? Using my cell phone while traveling to Europe Talk To Your Current Provider
Your current provider probably has some kind of international plan that will allow you to use your cell phone while traveling to Europe.

Convert Everything: Kayak: Lonely Planet: Google Earth: Wi-Fi Finder: Using my SmartPhone While Traveling to Europe FAQ
What should I do with my phone when traveling to Europe? Do I need an international phone plan for Europe? Do US cell phones work in Europe? How do you use your phone when traveling internationally? Using my cell phone while traveling to Europe Talk To Your Current Provider
Your current provider probably has some kind of international plan that will allow you to use your cell phone while traveling to Europe.

The iPhone in Germany and Europe – Part 2 | The German Way & More The iPhone in Germany and Europe – Part 2
The iPhone in Germany and Europe – Part 2
A Guide to Using Your iPhone in Germany
Taking Care of Business Before You Leave
FAQ: Using an iPhone in Germany and Europe
International Text and Data
 Yes. See more information on this page below. I have a locked (contract) iPhone (6 or later). Can I use it in Europe? Yes. For a short-term visit to Europe you can sign up for your carrier’s international roaming plan and data plan. ( T-Mobile USA has the best one. The others charge about a dollar a minute for any outgoing or incoming calls, even local calls.) If you fail to do that and use roaming in Europe, you’ll pay a high price. Without a special plan, data and talk charges can be astronomical. –

Yes. See more information on this page below. I have a locked (contract) iPhone (6 or later). Can I use it in Europe? Yes. For a short-term visit to Europe you can sign up for your carrier’s international roaming plan and data plan. ( T-Mobile USA has the best one. The others charge about a dollar a minute for any outgoing or incoming calls, even local calls.) If you fail to do that and use roaming in Europe, you’ll pay a high price. Without a special plan, data and talk charges can be astronomical. –

The Best International Sim Card For Europe with Data - The World Was Here First The Best International Sim Card For Europe with Data
The Best International Sim Card For Europe with Data
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Best SIM Card for Europe Comparison
Will my Phone Work in Europe?
Does Your Phone Use GSM?
Is My Phone Unlocked?
Best International SIM Card for Europe with Data
Three Prepaid SIM with 12GB Data
Orange Prepaid SIM Card with 20GB Data
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Cellhire Prepaid SIM Card with 8GB Data
What About Buying a Local SIM Card?
 Mobile phones around the world use one of two different types of technology: CDMA or GSM. Without getting into the technical differences between the two, it means that you can’t put a SIM card that uses GSM into a mobile phone with CDMA technology or vica-versa. In most of the world, including Europe, mobile phones use GSM technology. So if you’re travelling to Europe from anywhere except North America, then your phone will be compatiable in Europe. In North America, whether your phone uses GSM or CDMA will depend on your provider. Out of the major providers in the USA, T-Mobile and AT&T use GSM while Verizon and Sprint have historically used CDMA. However, Verizon is planning on switching off its CDMA network by 2020 and there is talk of other CDMA providers doing the same. In Canada, the use of GSM or CDMA varies by province. If your phone uses CDMA, then these travel SIM cards won’t work in your phone.

Mobile phones around the world use one of two different types of technology: CDMA or GSM. Without getting into the technical differences between the two, it means that you can’t put a SIM card that uses GSM into a mobile phone with CDMA technology or vica-versa. In most of the world, including Europe, mobile phones use GSM technology. So if you’re travelling to Europe from anywhere except North America, then your phone will be compatiable in Europe. In North America, whether your phone uses GSM or CDMA will depend on your provider. Out of the major providers in the USA, T-Mobile and AT&T use GSM while Verizon and Sprint have historically used CDMA. However, Verizon is planning on switching off its CDMA network by 2020 and there is talk of other CDMA providers doing the same. In Canada, the use of GSM or CDMA varies by province. If your phone uses CDMA, then these travel SIM cards won’t work in your phone.

United Kingdom Phone Rentals - Cellular Abroad
Choose A Phone
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 you can add 360 minutes of incoming calls on a US number. The US number is in addition to the UK number that comes with the rental. This added feature is available during check out. Roaming in Europe
You can use your UK cell phone rental anywhere within the EU for no extra charges. The only requirement is that you initially use the phone rental in the United Kingdom before traveling elsewhere. Your plan will not change. How to Order
Here's how our rentals work; select the departure date and the return date for your trip. If you only need to make and receive calls, we recommend our Standard Rental. If you need to check emails, use Google Maps, browse the web and other activities associated with data, you will need to select a Deluxe Rental or an iPhone Rental.

United Kingdom Phone Rentals - Cellular Abroad

Choose A Phone
UK Cell Phone Rentals
Data Add-on
US Number Add-on
Roaming in Europe
How to Order

you can add 360 minutes of incoming calls on a US number. The US number is in addition to the UK number that comes with the rental. This added feature is available during check out. Roaming in Europe
You can use your UK cell phone rental anywhere within the EU for no extra charges. The only requirement is that you initially use the phone rental in the United Kingdom before traveling elsewhere. Your plan will not change. How to Order
Here's how our rentals work; select the departure date and the return date for your trip. If you only need to make and receive calls, we recommend our Standard Rental. If you need to check emails, use Google Maps, browse the web and other activities associated with data, you will need to select a Deluxe Rental or an iPhone Rental.

Phone similar to Tracfone in France? - Fodor's Travel Talk Forums Phone similar to Tracfone in France?
Phone similar to Tracfone in France?
Phone similar to Tracfone in France?
Thread Tools
 Or look around before you go for an unlocked quad band GSM phone. Kijiji, craigslist or ebay are good places to look. Then just pick up a Lebara SIM when you get to France... they offer about the lowest rates these days. I bought an unlocked dual SIM GSM iPhone knockoff on eBay for 25 bucks. Works fine. You can also get a phone and SIM before you leave from http://www.callineurope.com They bill to your credit card so you never run out of minutes. I've used them on 2 trips to France and one to Greece and the phone has worked flawlessly. At 39 cents a minute they are more expensive these days than Lebara but for convenience they're tough to beat. If your Verizon phones are smart phones you could Skype or similar and make phone calls with a WIFI connection. Some other links:

Phone similar to Tracfone in France? - Fodor's Travel Talk Forums

Phone similar to Tracfone in France?
Phone similar to Tracfone in France?
Phone similar to Tracfone in France?
Thread Tools

Or look around before you go for an unlocked quad band GSM phone. Kijiji, craigslist or ebay are good places to look. Then just pick up a Lebara SIM when you get to France... they offer about the lowest rates these days. I bought an unlocked dual SIM GSM iPhone knockoff on eBay for 25 bucks. Works fine. You can also get a phone and SIM before you leave from http://www.callineurope.com They bill to your credit card so you never run out of minutes. I've used them on 2 trips to France and one to Greece and the phone has worked flawlessly. At 39 cents a minute they are more expensive these days than Lebara but for convenience they're tough to beat. If your Verizon phones are smart phones you could Skype or similar and make phone calls with a WIFI connection. Some other links:

The iPhone in Germany and Europe – Part 2 | The German Way & More The iPhone in Germany and Europe – Part 2
The iPhone in Germany and Europe – Part 2
A Guide to Using Your iPhone in Germany
Taking Care of Business Before You Leave
FAQ: Using an iPhone in Germany and Europe
International Text and Data
 operate with either 120 or 230-volt power. You only need a plug adapter to convert the US flat-pronged plug to the European round prongs. International Text and Data
In German a text message is called an SMS (“short message service”). There are various international text messaging plans available, including T-Mobile’s Passport option. Another option, and a free one, that works with almost any smartphone or tablet is What’s App. As long as you have Wi-Fi, you can send and receive text and images for free, as long as the other person also has the same (free) app installed. Just use your phone to download the app from the Apple App Store or Google Play (Android). The “Messages” app included in the iPhone iOS also allows you to send free text, data and images using Wi-Fi from anywhere in the world. Using a US iPhone in Germany/Europe – Long-Term
If you are an expat living and working in Austria, Germany, Switzerland or another European country, you need a long-term solution. You’ll want to set up your iPhone with a local prepaid plan or a rate plan with T-Mobile Germany, O2 or Vodafone (or other European carriers).

operate with either 120 or 230-volt power. You only need a plug adapter to convert the US flat-pronged plug to the European round prongs. International Text and Data
In German a text message is called an SMS (“short message service”). There are various international text messaging plans available, including T-Mobile’s Passport option. Another option, and a free one, that works with almost any smartphone or tablet is What’s App. As long as you have Wi-Fi, you can send and receive text and images for free, as long as the other person also has the same (free) app installed. Just use your phone to download the app from the Apple App Store or Google Play (Android). The “Messages” app included in the iPhone iOS also allows you to send free text, data and images using Wi-Fi from anywhere in the world. Using a US iPhone in Germany/Europe – Long-Term
If you are an expat living and working in Austria, Germany, Switzerland or another European country, you need a long-term solution. You’ll want to set up your iPhone with a local prepaid plan or a rate plan with T-Mobile Germany, O2 or Vodafone (or other European carriers).

What's The Best International SIM Card in 2021 for Travelling in Europe? What’s The Best International SIM Card in 2021 for Travelling in Europe?
What’s The Best International SIM Card in 2021 for Travelling in Europe?
Editor’s Choice
Best SIM Card For Europe Travel
Orange Holiday SIM
UK Europe ThreeUK SIM Card
Europe Plus SIM
Cellhire Europe SIM data
O2 Prepaid SIM Card
Keepgo Global Lifetime SIM Card
What about International Cell Phones?
How to Get Started
An International Sim Card Versus Roaming
AT&T
T-Mobile
Sprint
Verizon
Things to Consider Before Traveling
Is Your Phone Unlocked?
Does Your Phone Support GSM Networks?
Verdict
 After all, how else could you keep a single US phone number? The service itself doesn’t require you to sign any contract. You simply pay a fee for every month you want to use the service and stop spending when you don’t need it anymore. The SIM card itself works with all devices and mobile operating systems. You will, however, have to pay for additional data. You get 1GB of free data to start you off, though. Cellhire Europe SIM data
Cellhire is another excellent choice that will enable any GSM phone — think the phone’s from company’s like AT&T and T-Mobile — to use data in Europe during your travels. It gives you fast 4G data roaming speeds in thirty different European countries. Your first purchase will provide you with 4GB of total data to use that is only valid for 30 days. The significant downside here is that once you use it up or that thirty days is over, you are unable to add more — you’ll have to buy a completely separate SIM to use Cellhire again.

What's The Best International SIM Card in 2021 for Travelling in Europe?

What’s The Best International SIM Card in 2021 for Travelling in Europe?
What’s The Best International SIM Card in 2021 for Travelling in Europe?
Editor’s Choice
Best SIM Card For Europe Travel
Orange Holiday SIM
UK Europe ThreeUK SIM Card
Europe Plus SIM
Cellhire Europe SIM data
O2 Prepaid SIM Card
Keepgo Global Lifetime SIM Card
What about International Cell Phones?
How to Get Started
An International Sim Card Versus Roaming
AT&T
T-Mobile
Sprint
Verizon
Things to Consider Before Traveling
Is Your Phone Unlocked?
Does Your Phone Support GSM Networks?
Verdict

After all, how else could you keep a single US phone number? The service itself doesn’t require you to sign any contract. You simply pay a fee for every month you want to use the service and stop spending when you don’t need it anymore. The SIM card itself works with all devices and mobile operating systems. You will, however, have to pay for additional data. You get 1GB of free data to start you off, though. Cellhire Europe SIM data
Cellhire is another excellent choice that will enable any GSM phone — think the phone’s from company’s like AT&T and T-Mobile — to use data in Europe during your travels. It gives you fast 4G data roaming speeds in thirty different European countries. Your first purchase will provide you with 4GB of total data to use that is only valid for 30 days. The significant downside here is that once you use it up or that thirty days is over, you are unable to add more — you’ll have to buy a completely separate SIM to use Cellhire again.

Understanding Telephones in London Understanding Telephones in London
Understanding Telephones in London
International Directory Enquiries From the UK
Recognizing London Telephone Numbers
How to Write London Telephone Numbers
UK Telephone Numbers
Cell Phone/Mobile Phone Numbers
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Payphones in London
How to Use a UK Payphone
Calls From Your Hotel Room
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Making International Calls From the UK
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 You will need a GSM phone that works on both the 900 MHz and 1800 MHz bands for use in the UK and/or Europe. Such phones are often described as "tri-band" or "quad-band". Check the specification of your phone in the product manual, or with your provider, or at GSM Arena by entering the model number in the 'quick search' box. Most "3G" handsets (900 MHz, 1800 MHz, and/or 2100 MHz) will work in most urban areas of UK and Europe, giving enhanced web and email access, as well as being usable for normal talk and text services. Do beware of roaming data charges, as internet access will be *very* expensive. What's GSM? GSM stands for Global System for Mobile Communication and is used across Europe and many other places around the world. But not in the US. GSM phones can be 'locked' to a network but they can be unlocked to allow you to use all the networks in the UK. You will also need a SIM card.

Understanding Telephones in London

You will need a GSM phone that works on both the 900 MHz and 1800 MHz bands for use in the UK and/or Europe. Such phones are often described as "tri-band" or "quad-band". Check the specification of your phone in the product manual, or with your provider, or at GSM Arena by entering the model number in the 'quick search' box. Most "3G" handsets (900 MHz, 1800 MHz, and/or 2100 MHz) will work in most urban areas of UK and Europe, giving enhanced web and email access, as well as being usable for normal talk and text services. Do beware of roaming data charges, as internet access will be *very* expensive. What's GSM? GSM stands for Global System for Mobile Communication and is used across Europe and many other places around the world. But not in the US. GSM phones can be 'locked' to a network but they can be unlocked to allow you to use all the networks in the UK. You will also need a SIM card.

International Cell Phone Rentals and Data Plans - Cellular Abroad International Cell Phones, Hotspots & SIM Cards
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International data roaming with your usual carrier is either expensive or slow. Our Data SIM Card offer fast and affordable data in 70 international destinations including Europe, Australia and Latin America. Simply insert our data SIM card in your unlocked phone, tablet or mobile hotspot and you are ready to go - no activation required. International Mobile WiFi Hotspot
Our International mobile hotspot is an easy way to stay connected during your travels. No more searching for WiFi. No more worrying about security breaches. Stay connected 24/7 while traveling in Europe, Australia, NZ, South America and other destinations. The Mobile Hotspot is available for Rent or Purchase. Europe Unlimited iPhone Rental
Rent an Android or an iPhone 4, 6 or X with unlimited high speed data, calling and texts within the EU! This is the perfect solution for travelers who want to use their phone in Europe as much as they do back home without paying high roaming fees.

International
Data SIM Card
International data roaming with your usual carrier is either expensive or slow. Our Data SIM Card offer fast and affordable data in 70 international destinations including Europe, Australia and Latin America. Simply insert our data SIM card in your unlocked phone, tablet or mobile hotspot and you are ready to go - no activation required. International Mobile WiFi Hotspot
Our International mobile hotspot is an easy way to stay connected during your travels. No more searching for WiFi. No more worrying about security breaches. Stay connected 24/7 while traveling in Europe, Australia, NZ, South America and other destinations. The Mobile Hotspot is available for Rent or Purchase. Europe Unlimited iPhone Rental
Rent an Android or an iPhone 4, 6 or X with unlimited high speed data, calling and texts within the EU! This is the perfect solution for travelers who want to use their phone in Europe as much as they do back home without paying high roaming fees.

Can I Use My iPhone in Europe? | 10Best Can I Use My iPhone in Europe?
Can I Use My iPhone in Europe?
Keep connected on your Euro trip
Buying a European SIM card
GSM vs. CDMA phones
Unlocking a phone
Using a European SIM card
International roaming with a U.S. carrier
 Unlocking a phone
To further complicate things, many American carriers "lock" their phones to prevent users from swapping out their services for a cheaper SIM package. Users can unlock their phones through their carrier or via a third party, but if they do so before their contract with the carrier is up, it can void the phone's warranty. Once the phone is unlocked, a new SIM card should slip right in and work like a charm. If a smartphone isn't eligible to be unlocked by its U.S. carrier and its owner doesn't want to go through a third party and jeopardize the warranty, he can pick up a cheap SIM-card compatible smartphone specifically for the trip. Retailers like Walmart and Target sell them. Using a European SIM card
A new SIM card means a new phone number, so most travelers who go this route opt to download messaging apps to simplify that situation. WhatsApp, which uses a data connection to place phone calls and send texts, is the most popular option for European travelers. International roaming with a U.S. carrier
Most U.S. mobile carriers offer their own travel packages, which are usually more expensive than the SIM option but also allow travelers to keep their own phone numbers and simplify the overall travel process. Here are each major carrier's travel options: AT&T:

Can I Use My iPhone in Europe? | 10Best

Can I Use My iPhone in Europe?
Can I Use My iPhone in Europe?
Keep connected on your Euro trip
Buying a European SIM card
GSM vs. CDMA phones
Unlocking a phone
Using a European SIM card
International roaming with a U.S. carrier

Unlocking a phone
To further complicate things, many American carriers "lock" their phones to prevent users from swapping out their services for a cheaper SIM package. Users can unlock their phones through their carrier or via a third party, but if they do so before their contract with the carrier is up, it can void the phone's warranty. Once the phone is unlocked, a new SIM card should slip right in and work like a charm. If a smartphone isn't eligible to be unlocked by its U.S. carrier and its owner doesn't want to go through a third party and jeopardize the warranty, he can pick up a cheap SIM-card compatible smartphone specifically for the trip. Retailers like Walmart and Target sell them. Using a European SIM card
A new SIM card means a new phone number, so most travelers who go this route opt to download messaging apps to simplify that situation. WhatsApp, which uses a data connection to place phone calls and send texts, is the most popular option for European travelers. International roaming with a U.S. carrier
Most U.S. mobile carriers offer their own travel packages, which are usually more expensive than the SIM option but also allow travelers to keep their own phone numbers and simplify the overall travel process. Here are each major carrier's travel options: AT&T:

How to Buy a Prepaid Phone in Europe: 14 Steps (with Pictures) How to Buy a Prepaid Phone in Europe
How to Buy a Prepaid Phone in Europe
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 CDMA-only phones won’t work in Europe. GSM phones always require an installed SIM card that’s affiliated with a mobile carrier in order to operate on a mobile network. You can buy a new SIM card (with or without a phone) in each country you visit, or use the same SIM card throughout the EU without incurring roaming charges—up to a set limit. SIM cards are easy to buy in most European countries, but some, like Germany, have significant security-related restrictions that make the process much less convenient for tourists. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/2\/22\/Buy-a-Prepaid-Phone-in-Europe-Step-2-Version-2.jpg\/v4-460px-Buy-a-Prepaid-Phone-in-Europe-Step-2-Version-2.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/2\/22\/Buy-a-Prepaid-Phone-in-Europe-Step-2-Version-2.jpg\/aid1579358-v4-728px-Buy-a-Prepaid-Phone-in-Europe-Step-2-Version-2.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"

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2
Shop for the best deal at convenience stores and corner shops. Retail shops throughout Europe sell prepaid phones, unlocked phones, and standalone SIM cards. You’ll usually have your choice from among several carriers that operate in that country, with phone-plus-SIM card price points that may start as low as $20 USD.

Using Verizon in Europe - Fodor's Travel Talk Forums Using Verizon in Europe
Using Verizon in Europe I have never used an iPhone overseas. My Android phone (a Verizon CDMA phone) will work on GSM but requires some crazy settings to make it work. If you want to use your Verizon phone in Europe, you first need to figure out how to set it to roam on GSM. This varies by the exact model of your phone. Looks like for an iPhone 6, you need to turn data and voice roaming on: https://www.verizonwireless.com/supp...international/
https://support.apple.com/en-us/HT201643
Once roaming is on, you should be able to see if you are registered on the local roaming network. When I was in Amsterdam for example, my phone would connect to one of the Dutch mobile networks it was allowed to roam on. If it is not registered on a local mobile network in Europe, you won't be able to text or make voice calls. If you are registered, then it's a Verizon issue. FYI, your phone does not need to be unlocked to use it in Europe if you are using your carrier's international roaming plan.

I have never used an iPhone overseas. My Android phone (a Verizon CDMA phone) will work on GSM but requires some crazy settings to make it work. If you want to use your Verizon phone in Europe, you first need to figure out how to set it to roam on GSM. This varies by the exact model of your phone. Looks like for an iPhone 6, you need to turn data and voice roaming on: https://www.verizonwireless.com/supp...international/
https://support.apple.com/en-us/HT201643
Once roaming is on, you should be able to see if you are registered on the local roaming network. When I was in Amsterdam for example, my phone would connect to one of the Dutch mobile networks it was allowed to roam on. If it is not registered on a local mobile network in Europe, you won't be able to text or make voice calls. If you are registered, then it's a Verizon issue. FYI, your phone does not need to be unlocked to use it in Europe if you are using your carrier's international roaming plan.

The iPhone in Germany and Europe – Part 2 | The German Way & More The iPhone in Germany and Europe – Part 2
The iPhone in Germany and Europe – Part 2
A Guide to Using Your iPhone in Germany
Taking Care of Business Before You Leave
FAQ: Using an iPhone in Germany and Europe
International Text and Data
 With an unlocked phone, you can use a SIM card from a wireless provider in Germany for lower local rates. See the FAQ below for more. SIM, GSM, and 5G
Now that Verizon has joined the other US carriers in using 4G/LTE/5G technology, this is not as much of a concern as it once was. Now GSM has conquered the world, and iPhones sold by AT&T, T-Mobile, Verizon, and Apple in the USA use the mobile phone technology found in Europe and most countries around the globe. ( Sprint is now part of T-Mobile USA.) Verizon’s old CDMA technology was scheduled to be completely phased out by the end of 2020. The only remaining hitch is that different countries use different frequencies for their 4G/LTE or new 5G networks. But most iPhones are multi-band, able to function in most parts of the world. With the iPhone 12, Apple has now released their first 5G-capable iPhone, but 5G access is still limited in both Europe and North America. All GSM mobile phones around the world, including AT&T, Verizon, and T-Mobile iPhones, use a SIM card or an eSIM chip, something required for international use.

With an unlocked phone, you can use a SIM card from a wireless provider in Germany for lower local rates. See the FAQ below for more. SIM, GSM, and 5G
Now that Verizon has joined the other US carriers in using 4G/LTE/5G technology, this is not as much of a concern as it once was. Now GSM has conquered the world, and iPhones sold by AT&T, T-Mobile, Verizon, and Apple in the USA use the mobile phone technology found in Europe and most countries around the globe. ( Sprint is now part of T-Mobile USA.) Verizon’s old CDMA technology was scheduled to be completely phased out by the end of 2020. The only remaining hitch is that different countries use different frequencies for their 4G/LTE or new 5G networks. But most iPhones are multi-band, able to function in most parts of the world. With the iPhone 12, Apple has now released their first 5G-capable iPhone, but 5G access is still limited in both Europe and North America. All GSM mobile phones around the world, including AT&T, Verizon, and T-Mobile iPhones, use a SIM card or an eSIM chip, something required for international use.

Understanding Telephones in London Understanding Telephones in London
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Payphones in London
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 011 44 0 20 7123 1234. You must remove the first zero from the area code when you dial. But remember you do need this 0 when calling another UK number from within the UK. Continue to 7 of 7 below. 07 of 07
Cell Phones in London
Tang Ming Tung / Getty Images
If you are used to using your cell phone regularly you may well want to bring it with you to London and the UK but the problem is that most US cell phones are not GSM. You will need a GSM phone that works on both the 900 MHz and 1800 MHz bands for use in the UK and/or Europe. Such phones are often described as "tri-band" or "quad-band". Check the specification of your phone in the product manual, or with your provider, or at GSM Arena by entering the model number in the 'quick search' box. Most "3G" handsets (900 MHz, 1800 MHz, and/or 2100 MHz) will work in most urban areas of UK and Europe, giving enhanced web and email access, as well as being usable for normal talk and text services. Do beware of roaming data charges, as internet access will be *very* expensive.

Understanding Telephones in London

011 44 0 20 7123 1234. You must remove the first zero from the area code when you dial. But remember you do need this 0 when calling another UK number from within the UK. Continue to 7 of 7 below. 07 of 07
Cell Phones in London
Tang Ming Tung / Getty Images
If you are used to using your cell phone regularly you may well want to bring it with you to London and the UK but the problem is that most US cell phones are not GSM. You will need a GSM phone that works on both the 900 MHz and 1800 MHz bands for use in the UK and/or Europe. Such phones are often described as "tri-band" or "quad-band". Check the specification of your phone in the product manual, or with your provider, or at GSM Arena by entering the model number in the 'quick search' box. Most "3G" handsets (900 MHz, 1800 MHz, and/or 2100 MHz) will work in most urban areas of UK and Europe, giving enhanced web and email access, as well as being usable for normal talk and text services. Do beware of roaming data charges, as internet access will be *very* expensive.

The iPhone in Germany and Europe – Part 2 | The German Way & More The iPhone in Germany and Europe – Part 2
The iPhone in Germany and Europe – Part 2
A Guide to Using Your iPhone in Germany
Taking Care of Business Before You Leave
FAQ: Using an iPhone in Germany and Europe
International Text and Data
 Already have an iPhone? Then just continue to read the information on this page. Still need to buy an iPhone? Then go to this page: Buying an iPhone for Germany
Taking Care of Business Before You Leave
Contract iPhones – Short-Term
If you already have a contract (locked) iPhone purchased in North America through AT&T, T-Mobile or Verizon and you are visiting Europe for only a few weeks, you can get a special international roaming rate. You should do this before you travel. A few years ago, T-Mobile introduced favorable rate plans that include “unlimited talk, text & data while on the T-Mobile network, and unlimited data & text in 120+ countries & destinations,” including Austria, Germany and Switzerland. T-Mobile’s Simple Choice plan (from $50/month) offers unlimited international data and text with talk at only 20 cents per minute in Germany and most of Europe. AT&T also has special international roaming plans when using your iPhone in Europe or other overseas locations, but AT&T charges about a dollar a minute. It does offer much lower rates using Wi-Fi.

Already have an iPhone? Then just continue to read the information on this page. Still need to buy an iPhone? Then go to this page: Buying an iPhone for Germany
Taking Care of Business Before You Leave
Contract iPhones – Short-Term
If you already have a contract (locked) iPhone purchased in North America through AT&T, T-Mobile or Verizon and you are visiting Europe for only a few weeks, you can get a special international roaming rate. You should do this before you travel. A few years ago, T-Mobile introduced favorable rate plans that include “unlimited talk, text & data while on the T-Mobile network, and unlimited data & text in 120+ countries & destinations,” including Austria, Germany and Switzerland. T-Mobile’s Simple Choice plan (from $50/month) offers unlimited international data and text with talk at only 20 cents per minute in Germany and most of Europe. AT&T also has special international roaming plans when using your iPhone in Europe or other overseas locations, but AT&T charges about a dollar a minute. It does offer much lower rates using Wi-Fi.

WiFi in Italy? - Fodor's Travel Talk Forums WiFi in Italy?
WiFi in Italy? Generally, you need a "quad band" phone to work in the US or Europe, but many US phones are "tri band" (three frequencies) and lack one of the popular frequencies used in Europe. My old Motorola GSM phone was one of these US tri-band phones, but I found a hack to get it use the three GSM frequencies used in Europe. I bought an Italian SIM card for it once I got to Italy and it worked beautifully everywhere in Italy, Slovenia, and Croatia that I needed to use it. My phone also had a modem and I'm fairly sure I could have figured out how to tether it to my netbook to get internet access everywhere, though that would have probably been more expensive than I was willing to pay. I generally found WiFi where I needed it in Italian cities. In the smaller towns, maybe not so much. I always book lodgings when I travel based on their advertised availability of WiFi. Reply
Andrew
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May 1st, 2010, 02:34 PM
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bellalinda
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Generally, you need a "quad band" phone to work in the US or Europe, but many US phones are "tri band" (three frequencies) and lack one of the popular frequencies used in Europe. My old Motorola GSM phone was one of these US tri-band phones, but I found a hack to get it use the three GSM frequencies used in Europe. I bought an Italian SIM card for it once I got to Italy and it worked beautifully everywhere in Italy, Slovenia, and Croatia that I needed to use it. My phone also had a modem and I'm fairly sure I could have figured out how to tether it to my netbook to get internet access everywhere, though that would have probably been more expensive than I was willing to pay. I generally found WiFi where I needed it in Italian cities. In the smaller towns, maybe not so much. I always book lodgings when I travel based on their advertised availability of WiFi. Reply
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May 1st, 2010, 02:34 PM
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bellalinda
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How Do I Use My Cell Phone While Traveling to Europe? How Do I Use My Cell Phone While Traveling to Europe?
How Do I Use My Cell Phone While Traveling to Europe?
Table of Contents
Using my cell phone while traveling to Europe Talk To Your Current Provider
How to Use Your Smartphone in Europe
What type of phone do I have
Cell Phone While Traveling to Europe and Smartphone Data Plans and Texting
Get A Local SIM Card
Using a European SIM Card
Charging Your Cell Phone in Europe
Prepaid Cell Phones in Europe
Set Up A Mobile Hotspot
TEP Wireless vs Skyroam VS Keepgo When Traveling to Europe
Keepgo
Skyroam
TEP Wireless
Find WiFi and Use Chatting Apps
FREE iPad iPhone Travel Apps for your Cell Phone While Traveling to Europe
Hostel Hero:
Hostelworld:
Stanza:
Every Trail:
What Knot:
Skype (only for iPhone):
iTranslate:
Spending Light:
Convert Everything:
Kayak:
Lonely Planet:
Google Earth:
Wi-Fi Finder:
Using my SmartPhone While Traveling to Europe FAQ
What should I do with my phone when traveling to Europe?
Do I need an international phone plan for Europe?
Do US cell phones work in Europe?
How do you use your phone when traveling internationally?
Sharing is caring!
 The cost will depend on how you plan to use your mobile device, and it’s certainly going to be more expensive if you’re going to watch movies or YouTube videos. Plan ahead for e-Learning success as well, including a language while you are on holiday. Get A Local SIM Card
Depending on where you’re traveling, it might make a lot of sense to get a local SIM card. In order to install your SIM card, you will need to unlock your phone. Many carriers will allow you to do this as long as the phone is paid for. If your carrier pushes back on unlocking your phone, you can always have it unlocked once you arrive in Europe. There is no real standard of excellence for having your phone unlocked by a local shop, so make sure that you check around and get solid references before you go this route. Once your phone is unlocked you can use your local SIM card with ease! Make sure that you keep your American SIM in a safe spot because you’ll need it when you return home. Best Data Plan WiFi Hotspot Devices for Travel
Skyroam Wifi Anywhere
Using a European SIM Card
The simplest and most practical option is to use a European SIM card, and you can get these from various European mobile carriers.

How Do I Use My Cell Phone While Traveling to Europe?

How Do I Use My Cell Phone While Traveling to Europe?
How Do I Use My Cell Phone While Traveling to Europe?
Table of Contents
Using my cell phone while traveling to Europe Talk To Your Current Provider
How to Use Your Smartphone in Europe
What type of phone do I have
Cell Phone While Traveling to Europe and Smartphone Data Plans and Texting
Get A Local SIM Card
Using a European SIM Card
Charging Your Cell Phone in Europe
Prepaid Cell Phones in Europe
Set Up A Mobile Hotspot
TEP Wireless vs Skyroam VS Keepgo When Traveling to Europe
Keepgo
Skyroam
TEP Wireless
Find WiFi and Use Chatting Apps
FREE iPad iPhone Travel Apps for your Cell Phone While Traveling to Europe
Hostel Hero:
Hostelworld:
Stanza:
Every Trail:
What Knot:
Skype (only for iPhone):
iTranslate:
Spending Light:
Convert Everything:
Kayak:
Lonely Planet:
Google Earth:
Wi-Fi Finder:
Using my SmartPhone While Traveling to Europe FAQ
What should I do with my phone when traveling to Europe?
Do I need an international phone plan for Europe?
Do US cell phones work in Europe?
How do you use your phone when traveling internationally?
Sharing is caring!

The cost will depend on how you plan to use your mobile device, and it’s certainly going to be more expensive if you’re going to watch movies or YouTube videos. Plan ahead for e-Learning success as well, including a language while you are on holiday. Get A Local SIM Card
Depending on where you’re traveling, it might make a lot of sense to get a local SIM card. In order to install your SIM card, you will need to unlock your phone. Many carriers will allow you to do this as long as the phone is paid for. If your carrier pushes back on unlocking your phone, you can always have it unlocked once you arrive in Europe. There is no real standard of excellence for having your phone unlocked by a local shop, so make sure that you check around and get solid references before you go this route. Once your phone is unlocked you can use your local SIM card with ease! Make sure that you keep your American SIM in a safe spot because you’ll need it when you return home. Best Data Plan WiFi Hotspot Devices for Travel
Skyroam Wifi Anywhere
Using a European SIM Card
The simplest and most practical option is to use a European SIM card, and you can get these from various European mobile carriers.

Using a European SIM Card by Rick Steves Using a European SIM Card
Using a European SIM Card
By Rick Steves
 Using a European SIM Card by Rick Steves
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Using a European SIM Card
With a European number, you can call (and text, and get online) within Europe for the lower rates locals enjoy. By Rick Steves
While using your American phone in Europe is easy, it can get expensive. And unreliable Wi-Fi can make the reality of keeping in touch via a service like Skype more frustrating than it should be. If you anticipate heavy phone or data use, consider traveling with a mobile phone fitted with a European SIM card. This gives you a European mobile number and access to cheaper rates than you'd get through your US carrier, even with an international plan. Generally with a European SIM card, it's free to receive domestic texts and calls, about 2–20 cents/minute to make domestic calls and calls within the EU, and 5–15 cents to send a text within the EU. For the best rates, buy a new SIM card every time you arrive in a new country. To get a European SIM, you'll need to do the following: 1. Make sure you're equipped with a proper phone.

Using a European SIM Card by Rick Steves

Using a European SIM Card
Using a European SIM Card
By Rick Steves

Using a European SIM Card by Rick Steves
Home
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Travel Tips
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Phones & Tech
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Using a European SIM Card
Facebook
Twitter
Pinterest
Email
Share
Using a European SIM Card
With a European number, you can call (and text, and get online) within Europe for the lower rates locals enjoy. By Rick Steves
While using your American phone in Europe is easy, it can get expensive. And unreliable Wi-Fi can make the reality of keeping in touch via a service like Skype more frustrating than it should be. If you anticipate heavy phone or data use, consider traveling with a mobile phone fitted with a European SIM card. This gives you a European mobile number and access to cheaper rates than you'd get through your US carrier, even with an international plan. Generally with a European SIM card, it's free to receive domestic texts and calls, about 2–20 cents/minute to make domestic calls and calls within the EU, and 5–15 cents to send a text within the EU. For the best rates, buy a new SIM card every time you arrive in a new country. To get a European SIM, you'll need to do the following: 1. Make sure you're equipped with a proper phone.

The 5 Best Unlocked Smartphones for International Travel - Expat Kings The 5 Best Unlocked Smartphones for International Travel
The 5 Best Unlocked Smartphones for International Travel
Compare Smartphones
Best Unlocked Smartphones Reviews (International Compatible)
#1 – BLU Advance 5.2 HD
Price: $60
Key Features
Click here to read Amazon user reviews on Blu Advance 5.2 HD
#2 – Moto G6 (Amazon Prime Exclusive)
Key Features
Click here to read Amazon user reviews on Moto G6
#3 – Samsung Galaxy J2 Prime
Key Features
Click here to read Amazon user reviews on Samsung Galaxy J2 Prime
#4 – Huawei Mate SE
Key Features
#5 – Apple iPhone 7
Key Features
Click here to read Amazon user reviews on Apple iPhone 7
Buying a Smartphone for Your International Trip
Why Use An Unlocked Smartphone?
What do you think?
Written by Tarik
Don't Miss
 $289
Key Features
4 inch display
16GB memory
7MP FaceTime HD camera
12MP rear camera
Apple always produces high quality products but this is a refurbished model. We ranked this phone #5 on the list due to it being an older Apple iPhone model and a previously owned product. Apple iPhones are so expensive that refurbished older models still cost more than up to date 2019 models from other smartphone makers. Apple gives you 4G access in the United States and 3G when you travel overseas. It’s compatible with the following GSM US cell phone carriers: T Mobile
AT&T
MetroPCS
Unfornatuely, it doesn’t work with CDMA carriers like Verizon, Sprint and Boost. This GSM band phone works in all major continents including: Europe (France, Italy, Spain, etc)
Middle East (Dubai, Lebanon, Saudi Arabia, etc)
Africa (Ghana, Nigeria, South Africa, Ethiopia, etc)
Asian (Thailand, Philippines, Japan, Vietnam, etc)
Latin America (Brazil, Colombia, Argentina, Venezuela, Panama, etc)
Click here to read Amazon user reviews on Apple iPhone 7
Buying a Smartphone for Your International Trip
Travelling to a different country is a great way to immerse yourself in a different culture and meet new friends. When you make new friends, it’s only natural to exchange phone numbers. However, there is one small problem:

The 5 Best Unlocked Smartphones for International Travel - Expat Kings

The 5 Best Unlocked Smartphones for International Travel
The 5 Best Unlocked Smartphones for International Travel
Compare Smartphones
Best Unlocked Smartphones Reviews (International Compatible)
#1 – BLU Advance 5.2 HD
Price: $60
Key Features
Click here to read Amazon user reviews on Blu Advance 5.2 HD
#2 – Moto G6 (Amazon Prime Exclusive)
Key Features
Click here to read Amazon user reviews on Moto G6
#3 – Samsung Galaxy J2 Prime
Key Features
Click here to read Amazon user reviews on Samsung Galaxy J2 Prime
#4 – Huawei Mate SE
Key Features
#5 – Apple iPhone 7
Key Features
Click here to read Amazon user reviews on Apple iPhone 7
Buying a Smartphone for Your International Trip
Why Use An Unlocked Smartphone?
What do you think?
Written by Tarik
Don't Miss

$289
Key Features
4 inch display
16GB memory
7MP FaceTime HD camera
12MP rear camera
Apple always produces high quality products but this is a refurbished model. We ranked this phone #5 on the list due to it being an older Apple iPhone model and a previously owned product. Apple iPhones are so expensive that refurbished older models still cost more than up to date 2019 models from other smartphone makers. Apple gives you 4G access in the United States and 3G when you travel overseas. It’s compatible with the following GSM US cell phone carriers: T Mobile
AT&T
MetroPCS
Unfornatuely, it doesn’t work with CDMA carriers like Verizon, Sprint and Boost. This GSM band phone works in all major continents including: Europe (France, Italy, Spain, etc)
Middle East (Dubai, Lebanon, Saudi Arabia, etc)
Africa (Ghana, Nigeria, South Africa, Ethiopia, etc)
Asian (Thailand, Philippines, Japan, Vietnam, etc)
Latin America (Brazil, Colombia, Argentina, Venezuela, Panama, etc)
Click here to read Amazon user reviews on Apple iPhone 7
Buying a Smartphone for Your International Trip
Travelling to a different country is a great way to immerse yourself in a different culture and meet new friends. When you make new friends, it’s only natural to exchange phone numbers. However, there is one small problem:

The iPhone in Germany and Europe | The German Way & More The iPhone in Germany and Europe
The iPhone in Germany and Europe
Das iPhone in Deutschland: Buying an iPhone for Germany
Two Purchase Options
Where to Buy Your iPhone
FAQ: Buying an iPhone for Germany and Europe
Cost of Buying an iPhone in Germany versus the USA
Buying an iPhone in Germany
 See this Apple support page for more.) – If you’re replacing an Android or Windows phone, check with your provider on how to make the conversion. Also see this digitaltrends.com guide to making the Android to iOS conversion. I’d prefer to buy an Android smartphone. Which ones work in Europe and Germany? Samsung and other smartphone makers sell many models that work well in the US and Europe. See our GW Expat Blog post for more on this topic. A Telekom store in Stuttgart, Germany. The new “Magenta” plan allows you to use a German SIM-card on a prepaid plan. PHOTO:

The iPhone in Germany and Europe | The German Way & More

The iPhone in Germany and Europe
The iPhone in Germany and Europe
Das iPhone in Deutschland: Buying an iPhone for Germany
Two Purchase Options
Where to Buy Your iPhone
FAQ: Buying an iPhone for Germany and Europe
Cost of Buying an iPhone in Germany versus the USA
Buying an iPhone in Germany

See this Apple support page for more.) – If you’re replacing an Android or Windows phone, check with your provider on how to make the conversion. Also see this digitaltrends.com guide to making the Android to iOS conversion. I’d prefer to buy an Android smartphone. Which ones work in Europe and Germany? Samsung and other smartphone makers sell many models that work well in the US and Europe. See our GW Expat Blog post for more on this topic. A Telekom store in Stuttgart, Germany. The new “Magenta” plan allows you to use a German SIM-card on a prepaid plan. PHOTO:

9 Best Phone Plans for International Travel in 2021 9 Best Phone Plans for International Travel in 2021
9 Best Phone Plans for International Travel in 2021
Europe Plus SIM
Orange Holiday SIM
UK Europe ThreeUK SIM Card
Internet with legs Trio
Keepgo Global Lifetime SIM Card
T-Mobile International Roaming
Verizon International Roaming
AT&T International Roaming
Google’s Project Fi Prepaid International Roaming
Verdict
 You’ll have to rely on the data side for most communication, such as through platforms like Facebook Messenger and WhatsApp. Data still sits at 4G LTE speeds, so apps always respond and run quickly. We should note that this card only works with unlocked GSM phones — CDMA phones simply don’t have the radios to support it. It comes with just 3GB of data to use while in Europe, but can be topped off with more data whenever needed. Keepgo Global Lifetime SIM Card
Keepgo’s Global Lifetime SIM card is another neat one, bringing you 4G LTE speeds while in Europe. This card is actually somewhat unique. With the purchase of the card, you get 1GB of data to use. Once you use that data up, Keepgo charges you per 1GB used, and at an extra fee per 1GB. It’s a reasonably cheap way to use data internationally, especially if you don’t need much. However, if you plan on using it quite a bit on the go, you’ll likely use a lot, as you’ll have to rely on your data for communication more since it doesn’t support actual phone calls or text.

9 Best Phone Plans for International Travel in 2021

9 Best Phone Plans for International Travel in 2021
9 Best Phone Plans for International Travel in 2021
Europe Plus SIM
Orange Holiday SIM
UK Europe ThreeUK SIM Card
Internet with legs Trio
Keepgo Global Lifetime SIM Card
T-Mobile International Roaming
Verizon International Roaming
AT&T International Roaming
Google’s Project Fi Prepaid International Roaming
Verdict

You’ll have to rely on the data side for most communication, such as through platforms like Facebook Messenger and WhatsApp. Data still sits at 4G LTE speeds, so apps always respond and run quickly. We should note that this card only works with unlocked GSM phones — CDMA phones simply don’t have the radios to support it. It comes with just 3GB of data to use while in Europe, but can be topped off with more data whenever needed. Keepgo Global Lifetime SIM Card
Keepgo’s Global Lifetime SIM card is another neat one, bringing you 4G LTE speeds while in Europe. This card is actually somewhat unique. With the purchase of the card, you get 1GB of data to use. Once you use that data up, Keepgo charges you per 1GB used, and at an extra fee per 1GB. It’s a reasonably cheap way to use data internationally, especially if you don’t need much. However, if you plan on using it quite a bit on the go, you’ll likely use a lot, as you’ll have to rely on your data for communication more since it doesn’t support actual phone calls or text.

iPhone in Europe: Information for AT&T customers | EuroCheapo iPhone in Europe: Information for AT&T customers
iPhone in Europe: Information for AT&T customers
AT&T’s International Packages
Making telephone calls from abroad
Cheapo tips
Sending and receiving text messages
Cheapo tips
Using email, browsing the Web, and using Apps
Cheapo tips
Sticking to Wi-Fi
Monitor your usage
Heading to Europe? Get our ebook for free!
About the author
Book Your Trip
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Tickets and tours
 If you’re serious about smartphone savings while traveling, be sure to read our guide to buying a SIM card in Europe for American phones. Using a European SIM card requires you to unlock your phone (or bring along a cheapo unlocked phone to use), and can lead to big savings. AT&T’s International Packages
As of March 2015, AT&T offers three add-on plans for international usage. These packages are added on top of whatever monthly charges you currently incur. To get these rates, call AT&T before taking off and have them add the package to your plan. It is possible to have them add the plan from abroad, but it’s a better idea to set it up before taking off. (Note: Most of the time, AT&T will set these packages up to automatically expire once you’re home, with a minimum one-month charge. However, double check once home to make sure that the plan has, indeed, expired and that you’re not still paying for it!) Here are AT&T’s three plans for iPhone and Android phone use throughout Europe:

iPhone in Europe: Information for AT&T customers | EuroCheapo

iPhone in Europe: Information for AT&T customers
iPhone in Europe: Information for AT&T customers
AT&T’s International Packages
Making telephone calls from abroad
Cheapo tips
Sending and receiving text messages
Cheapo tips
Using email, browsing the Web, and using Apps
Cheapo tips
Sticking to Wi-Fi
Monitor your usage
Heading to Europe? Get our ebook for free!
About the author
Book Your Trip
Find us on Facebook
Tickets and tours

If you’re serious about smartphone savings while traveling, be sure to read our guide to buying a SIM card in Europe for American phones. Using a European SIM card requires you to unlock your phone (or bring along a cheapo unlocked phone to use), and can lead to big savings. AT&T’s International Packages
As of March 2015, AT&T offers three add-on plans for international usage. These packages are added on top of whatever monthly charges you currently incur. To get these rates, call AT&T before taking off and have them add the package to your plan. It is possible to have them add the plan from abroad, but it’s a better idea to set it up before taking off. (Note: Most of the time, AT&T will set these packages up to automatically expire once you’re home, with a minimum one-month charge. However, double check once home to make sure that the plan has, indeed, expired and that you’re not still paying for it!) Here are AT&T’s three plans for iPhone and Android phone use throughout Europe:

The iPhone in Germany and Europe – Part 2 | The German Way & More The iPhone in Germany and Europe – Part 2
The iPhone in Germany and Europe – Part 2
A Guide to Using Your iPhone in Germany
Taking Care of Business Before You Leave
FAQ: Using an iPhone in Germany and Europe
International Text and Data
 As long as you have Wi-Fi, you can send and receive text and images for free, as long as the other person also has the same (free) app installed. Just use your phone to download the app from the Apple App Store or Google Play (Android). The “Messages” app included in the iPhone iOS also allows you to send free text, data and images using Wi-Fi from anywhere in the world. Using a US iPhone in Germany/Europe – Long-Term
If you are an expat living and working in Austria, Germany, Switzerland or another European country, you need a long-term solution. You’ll want to set up your iPhone with a local prepaid plan or a rate plan with T-Mobile Germany, O2 or Vodafone (or other European carriers). If you have an unlocked iPhone this is no problem. If you have a carrier-subsidized (two-year contract) GSM-capable iPhone (from AT&T, T-Mobile, or Verizon), things get a little more complicated. Unlocking Your US Phone
In February 2015 a new FCC regulation concerning mobile phone unlocking took effect in the United States. But prior to that date, the Federal Communications Commission had already acted to ensure that most people could unlock their phones. FCC Chairman Tom Wheeler had pressured the wireless carriers to sign on to a new unlocking policy.

The iPhone in Germany and Europe – Part 2 | The German Way & More

The iPhone in Germany and Europe – Part 2
The iPhone in Germany and Europe – Part 2
A Guide to Using Your iPhone in Germany
Taking Care of Business Before You Leave
FAQ: Using an iPhone in Germany and Europe
International Text and Data

As long as you have Wi-Fi, you can send and receive text and images for free, as long as the other person also has the same (free) app installed. Just use your phone to download the app from the Apple App Store or Google Play (Android). The “Messages” app included in the iPhone iOS also allows you to send free text, data and images using Wi-Fi from anywhere in the world. Using a US iPhone in Germany/Europe – Long-Term
If you are an expat living and working in Austria, Germany, Switzerland or another European country, you need a long-term solution. You’ll want to set up your iPhone with a local prepaid plan or a rate plan with T-Mobile Germany, O2 or Vodafone (or other European carriers). If you have an unlocked iPhone this is no problem. If you have a carrier-subsidized (two-year contract) GSM-capable iPhone (from AT&T, T-Mobile, or Verizon), things get a little more complicated. Unlocking Your US Phone
In February 2015 a new FCC regulation concerning mobile phone unlocking took effect in the United States. But prior to that date, the Federal Communications Commission had already acted to ensure that most people could unlock their phones. FCC Chairman Tom Wheeler had pressured the wireless carriers to sign on to a new unlocking policy.

The 5 Best Unlocked Smartphones for International Travel - Expat Kings The 5 Best Unlocked Smartphones for International Travel
The 5 Best Unlocked Smartphones for International Travel
Compare Smartphones
Best Unlocked Smartphones Reviews (International Compatible)
#1 – BLU Advance 5.2 HD
Price: $60
Key Features
Click here to read Amazon user reviews on Blu Advance 5.2 HD
#2 – Moto G6 (Amazon Prime Exclusive)
Key Features
Click here to read Amazon user reviews on Moto G6
#3 – Samsung Galaxy J2 Prime
Key Features
Click here to read Amazon user reviews on Samsung Galaxy J2 Prime
#4 – Huawei Mate SE
Key Features
#5 – Apple iPhone 7
Key Features
Click here to read Amazon user reviews on Apple iPhone 7
Buying a Smartphone for Your International Trip
Why Use An Unlocked Smartphone?
What do you think?
Written by Tarik
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 T Mobile
AT&T
MetroPCS
Unfornatuely, it doesn’t work with CDMA carriers like Verizon, Sprint and Boost. This GSM band phone works in all major continents including: Europe (France, Italy, Spain, etc)
Middle East (Dubai, Lebanon, Saudi Arabia, etc)
Africa (Ghana, Nigeria, South Africa, Ethiopia, etc)
Asian (Thailand, Philippines, Japan, Vietnam, etc)
Latin America (Brazil, Colombia, Argentina, Venezuela, Panama, etc)
Click here to read Amazon user reviews on Apple iPhone 7
Buying a Smartphone for Your International Trip
Travelling to a different country is a great way to immerse yourself in a different culture and meet new friends. When you make new friends, it’s only natural to exchange phone numbers. However, there is one small problem: you will need a local phone number! Don’t make the mistake of using your home number when travelling overseas. Not only are international roaming charges outrageously high, but most of your local friends won’t bother calling you. You need to purchase a dual SIM smartphone so you can use your current phone along with a newly purchased local SIM card in your new country. That way, you add as many minutes as you need and get a local phone number.

T Mobile
AT&T
MetroPCS
Unfornatuely, it doesn’t work with CDMA carriers like Verizon, Sprint and Boost. This GSM band phone works in all major continents including: Europe (France, Italy, Spain, etc)
Middle East (Dubai, Lebanon, Saudi Arabia, etc)
Africa (Ghana, Nigeria, South Africa, Ethiopia, etc)
Asian (Thailand, Philippines, Japan, Vietnam, etc)
Latin America (Brazil, Colombia, Argentina, Venezuela, Panama, etc)
Click here to read Amazon user reviews on Apple iPhone 7
Buying a Smartphone for Your International Trip
Travelling to a different country is a great way to immerse yourself in a different culture and meet new friends. When you make new friends, it’s only natural to exchange phone numbers. However, there is one small problem: you will need a local phone number! Don’t make the mistake of using your home number when travelling overseas. Not only are international roaming charges outrageously high, but most of your local friends won’t bother calling you. You need to purchase a dual SIM smartphone so you can use your current phone along with a newly purchased local SIM card in your new country. That way, you add as many minutes as you need and get a local phone number.

What's The Best International SIM Card in 2021 for Travelling in Europe? What’s The Best International SIM Card in 2021 for Travelling in Europe?
What’s The Best International SIM Card in 2021 for Travelling in Europe?
Editor’s Choice
Best SIM Card For Europe Travel
Orange Holiday SIM
UK Europe ThreeUK SIM Card
Europe Plus SIM
Cellhire Europe SIM data
O2 Prepaid SIM Card
Keepgo Global Lifetime SIM Card
What about International Cell Phones?
How to Get Started
An International Sim Card Versus Roaming
AT&T
T-Mobile
Sprint
Verizon
Things to Consider Before Traveling
Is Your Phone Unlocked?
Does Your Phone Support GSM Networks?
Verdict
 UK Europe ThreeUK SIM Card
The ThreeUK SIM Card for international European travel is an excellent choice as well. This SIM card will allow you to call UK numbers, as well as EU numbers, while you are traveling around Europe. This is one of the more affordable choices — putting you on Three UK’s network. You get 12GB of data to use, 3000 voice minutes, and 3000 texts. There are 71 different destinations in Europe that this SIM card covers, but some popular options you can expect to use it include the UK, Italy, France, Spain, Germany, Brazil, Australia, New Zealand, Hong Kong, and Singapore. It’s easily re-loaded with data; however, you can use this one in a phone only — there are no tethering or personal hotspot features attached to this SIM card. So, unfortunately, you won’t be able to use it to power your laptop or PC’s Internet. Product
Brand
Name
Price

Orange
Orange Holiday Europe Prepaid SIM Card
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Three
Three Prepaid SIM Card Europe
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Mobal
Europe Plus SIM by Mobal. 1GB of Fast 4G Data Included
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GlocalMe
GlocalMe G3 4G LTE Mobile Hotspot, Worldwide High Speed WiFi Hotspot
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* If you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission.

UK Europe ThreeUK SIM Card
The ThreeUK SIM Card for international European travel is an excellent choice as well. This SIM card will allow you to call UK numbers, as well as EU numbers, while you are traveling around Europe. This is one of the more affordable choices — putting you on Three UK’s network. You get 12GB of data to use, 3000 voice minutes, and 3000 texts. There are 71 different destinations in Europe that this SIM card covers, but some popular options you can expect to use it include the UK, Italy, France, Spain, Germany, Brazil, Australia, New Zealand, Hong Kong, and Singapore. It’s easily re-loaded with data; however, you can use this one in a phone only — there are no tethering or personal hotspot features attached to this SIM card. So, unfortunately, you won’t be able to use it to power your laptop or PC’s Internet. Product
Brand
Name
Price

Orange
Orange Holiday Europe Prepaid SIM Card
Check Price

Three
Three Prepaid SIM Card Europe
Check Price

Mobal
Europe Plus SIM by Mobal. 1GB of Fast 4G Data Included
Check Price on Amazon

GlocalMe
GlocalMe G3 4G LTE Mobile Hotspot, Worldwide High Speed WiFi Hotspot
Check Price on Amazon
* If you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission.

iPhone in Europe: Information for AT&T customers | EuroCheapo iPhone in Europe: Information for AT&T customers
iPhone in Europe: Information for AT&T customers
AT&T’s International Packages
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 You’re lost without a connection. These days I opt for the cheapest Passport package, take advantage of the unlimited texting, make infrequent and short phone calls, and use data to check emails (but never open attachments) and use Google maps. And I never open other big apps (like Facebook, Skype or Twitter) unless I’m connected to a Wi-Fi network. Monitor your usage
No matter which package you sign up for, it’s a very good (even critical) idea to monitor how much data you use. This is easy on an iPhone. You can see your Cellular Data Usage by clicking into “Settings” –> “Cellular”. Once abroad, the first thing you should do is scroll to the bottom and click on “Reset Statistics”. You’re set — now stick to your plan, or upgrade if you’re about to go over! Also in our Guide to Using an American iPhone in Europe
Using an American iPhone in Europe… without Going Broke
Tips for Verizon Customers
Tips for Windows, Android and Blackberry Customers
Setting up your phone to avoid a billing “surprise”
AT&T vs Verizon: A comparison of international plans
Heading to Europe?

You’re lost without a connection. These days I opt for the cheapest Passport package, take advantage of the unlimited texting, make infrequent and short phone calls, and use data to check emails (but never open attachments) and use Google maps. And I never open other big apps (like Facebook, Skype or Twitter) unless I’m connected to a Wi-Fi network. Monitor your usage
No matter which package you sign up for, it’s a very good (even critical) idea to monitor how much data you use. This is easy on an iPhone. You can see your Cellular Data Usage by clicking into “Settings” –> “Cellular”. Once abroad, the first thing you should do is scroll to the bottom and click on “Reset Statistics”. You’re set — now stick to your plan, or upgrade if you’re about to go over! Also in our Guide to Using an American iPhone in Europe
Using an American iPhone in Europe… without Going Broke
Tips for Verizon Customers
Tips for Windows, Android and Blackberry Customers
Setting up your phone to avoid a billing “surprise”
AT&T vs Verizon: A comparison of international plans
Heading to Europe?

The Best International Sim Card For Europe with Data - The World Was Here First The Best International Sim Card For Europe with Data
The Best International Sim Card For Europe with Data
Table of Contents
Best SIM Card for Europe Comparison
Will my Phone Work in Europe?
Does Your Phone Use GSM?
Is My Phone Unlocked?
Best International SIM Card for Europe with Data
Three Prepaid SIM with 12GB Data
Orange Prepaid SIM Card with 20GB Data
EE Prepaid Data SIM Card with 6GB Data
Giffgaff Prepaid SIM with 20GB Data
Cellhire Prepaid SIM Card with 8GB Data
What About Buying a Local SIM Card?
 60 days
Calls : None
SMS: None
Hotspot Allowed?: Yes
Countries Covered: 36
Recharagable?: No
Check Prices
Will my Phone Work in Europe? Before jumping into what the best international SIM Card for Europe with data is, you need to ensure that your phone will actually work when you arrive. Most carriers around the world allow for international roaming, meaning your phone will work as soon as you arrive in Europe. The bad news? This service tends to be outrageously expensive and should be avoided at all costs – particularly if you’re planning on using data abroad.

The Best International Sim Card For Europe with Data - The World Was Here First

The Best International Sim Card For Europe with Data
The Best International Sim Card For Europe with Data
Table of Contents
Best SIM Card for Europe Comparison
Will my Phone Work in Europe?
Does Your Phone Use GSM?
Is My Phone Unlocked?
Best International SIM Card for Europe with Data
Three Prepaid SIM with 12GB Data
Orange Prepaid SIM Card with 20GB Data
EE Prepaid Data SIM Card with 6GB Data
Giffgaff Prepaid SIM with 20GB Data
Cellhire Prepaid SIM Card with 8GB Data
What About Buying a Local SIM Card?

60 days
Calls : None
SMS: None
Hotspot Allowed?: Yes
Countries Covered: 36
Recharagable?: No
Check Prices
Will my Phone Work in Europe? Before jumping into what the best international SIM Card for Europe with data is, you need to ensure that your phone will actually work when you arrive. Most carriers around the world allow for international roaming, meaning your phone will work as soon as you arrive in Europe. The bad news? This service tends to be outrageously expensive and should be avoided at all costs – particularly if you’re planning on using data abroad.

9 Best SIM Card for Europe International Travels in 2021 9 Best SIM Card for Europe International Travels in 2021
9 Best SIM Card for Europe International Travels in 2021
At A Glance: SIM Cards for Travel to Europe
Best SIM Card for Europe International Travels
1. UK Europe ThreeUK SIM Card
2. Orange Holiday Europe SIM Card
3. UK EE Mobile Prepaid SIM Card
4. Cellhire Europe SIM data
5. Keepgo Global Lifetime SIM Card
6. Mobal Europe Plus SIM Card
7. travSIM Prepaid SIM Card for UK
8. O2 Prepaid SIM Card
9. Cellhire 3-in-1 SIM Card
 We’ve compared many popular SIM cards and selected seven of the best sim card for Europe, these are sim cards all travelers to Europe should know about. Best SIM Card for Europe International Travels
1. UK Europe ThreeUK SIM Card
Coming up as first as the best sim card for Europe, we have the ThreeUK SIM Card for international European travel. This SIM card will allow you to call UK numbers, as well as EU numbers, while you are traveling around Europe. The nice thing about this SIM card is that it gives you 12GB of data to use, 3000 voice minutes, and 3000 texts. There are actually 71 different destinations in Europe that this SIM card covers, but some of the highlights are the UK, Italy, France, Spain, Germany, Brazil, Australia, New Zealand, Hong Kong, and Singapore. Some say that it also works in the USA, but that hasn’t quite been confirmed. It’s easily re-loaded with data; however, you can use this one in a phone only — there are no tethering or personal hotspot features attached to this SIM card. Buy it now:

9 Best SIM Card for Europe International Travels in 2021

9 Best SIM Card for Europe International Travels in 2021
9 Best SIM Card for Europe International Travels in 2021
At A Glance: SIM Cards for Travel to Europe
Best SIM Card for Europe International Travels
1. UK Europe ThreeUK SIM Card
2. Orange Holiday Europe SIM Card
3. UK EE Mobile Prepaid SIM Card
4. Cellhire Europe SIM data
5. Keepgo Global Lifetime SIM Card
6. Mobal Europe Plus SIM Card
7. travSIM Prepaid SIM Card for UK
8. O2 Prepaid SIM Card
9. Cellhire 3-in-1 SIM Card

We’ve compared many popular SIM cards and selected seven of the best sim card for Europe, these are sim cards all travelers to Europe should know about. Best SIM Card for Europe International Travels
1. UK Europe ThreeUK SIM Card
Coming up as first as the best sim card for Europe, we have the ThreeUK SIM Card for international European travel. This SIM card will allow you to call UK numbers, as well as EU numbers, while you are traveling around Europe. The nice thing about this SIM card is that it gives you 12GB of data to use, 3000 voice minutes, and 3000 texts. There are actually 71 different destinations in Europe that this SIM card covers, but some of the highlights are the UK, Italy, France, Spain, Germany, Brazil, Australia, New Zealand, Hong Kong, and Singapore. Some say that it also works in the USA, but that hasn’t quite been confirmed. It’s easily re-loaded with data; however, you can use this one in a phone only — there are no tethering or personal hotspot features attached to this SIM card. Buy it now:

Using Pay-as-You-Go Cell Phones In London Pay-as-You-Go Cell Phones In London
Pay-as-You-Go Cell Phones In London
Your Phone, New SIM
New Phone (Handset), New SIM
Pay-as-You-Go Plan
 Using Pay-as-You-Go Cell Phones In London
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All London
Pay-as-You-Go Cell Phones In London
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Laura Porter
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Laura Porter is an experienced UK travel writer specializing in all things to do with London. Tripsavvy's Editorial Guidelines
Laura Porter
Updated 06/03/19
TripSavvy / Ellen Chao
If you are traveling to the UK for a short trip, you may be wondering if you can use your cell phone (called "mobile phones" or simply "mobiles" in London). You actually have three choices when it comes to mobile calling in the UK: 1) Activate an international plan with your cell phone provider; 2) Rent an international cell phone; or 3) Purchase an unlocked phone and SIM (Subscriber Identity Module) card that works in another country. The first option, purchasing an international plan, seems like the simplest, but it will probably be the most expensive. Most carriers charge a monthly fee (or one-time charge), plus a per-minute calling fee, texting fee, and data fee (which can be a lot of money for a little bit of data). The second choice, renting an international cell phone, is somewhat convenient—the phone is shipped to your home with an initial airtime balance—but you will have to mail the phone back when you return to the states; since there is a daily fee, you may end up paying for days you don't use the phone.

Using Pay-as-You-Go Cell Phones In London

Pay-as-You-Go Cell Phones In London
Pay-as-You-Go Cell Phones In London
Your Phone, New SIM
New Phone (Handset), New SIM
Pay-as-You-Go Plan

Using Pay-as-You-Go Cell Phones In London
Europe England London
London
Guide
Things To Do
Essentials
Restaurants
Nightlife
Where to Stay
Neighborhoods
Itineraries
Events
Getaways
All London
Pay-as-You-Go Cell Phones In London
Tips for Using a "Mobile" in the UK
Written by
Laura Porter
Facebook
Twitter
Laura Porter is an experienced UK travel writer specializing in all things to do with London. Tripsavvy's Editorial Guidelines
Laura Porter
Updated 06/03/19
TripSavvy / Ellen Chao
If you are traveling to the UK for a short trip, you may be wondering if you can use your cell phone (called "mobile phones" or simply "mobiles" in London). You actually have three choices when it comes to mobile calling in the UK: 1) Activate an international plan with your cell phone provider; 2) Rent an international cell phone; or 3) Purchase an unlocked phone and SIM (Subscriber Identity Module) card that works in another country. The first option, purchasing an international plan, seems like the simplest, but it will probably be the most expensive. Most carriers charge a monthly fee (or one-time charge), plus a per-minute calling fee, texting fee, and data fee (which can be a lot of money for a little bit of data). The second choice, renting an international cell phone, is somewhat convenient—the phone is shipped to your home with an initial airtime balance—but you will have to mail the phone back when you return to the states; since there is a daily fee, you may end up paying for days you don't use the phone.

What's The Best International SIM Card in 2021 for Travelling in Europe? What’s The Best International SIM Card in 2021 for Travelling in Europe?
What’s The Best International SIM Card in 2021 for Travelling in Europe?
Editor’s Choice
Best SIM Card For Europe Travel
Orange Holiday SIM
UK Europe ThreeUK SIM Card
Europe Plus SIM
Cellhire Europe SIM data
O2 Prepaid SIM Card
Keepgo Global Lifetime SIM Card
What about International Cell Phones?
How to Get Started
An International Sim Card Versus Roaming
AT&T
T-Mobile
Sprint
Verizon
Things to Consider Before Traveling
Is Your Phone Unlocked?
Does Your Phone Support GSM Networks?
Verdict
 This is where an international SIM card will help you immensely, especially when used with the dual SIM phones. Editor’s Choice
Traveling to Europe and looking for phone and data connections? We recommend the Orange Holiday Europe prepaid international Sim card. Works in 30 of the largest countries in Europe. More Info
Purchasing a local SIM card may be a good solution for some instances, but certainly not for traveling across Europe. You will quickly get tired of constantly changing your SIM card, and the people you try to stay in contact with will have to play a guessing game when determining which number they should use to contact you. A much better alternative is to purchase an international SIM card that you can use in all of the countries that you will be visiting, thus keeping the same number and never worrying about extra charges. Even though there are many international SIM card providers, one stands out as the best choice for traveling in Europe. We are talking, of course, about Mobal and their new Europe Plus SIM. Best SIM Card For Europe Travel
Orange Holiday SIM
Our number one favorite option is the Orange Holiday SIM.

This is where an international SIM card will help you immensely, especially when used with the dual SIM phones. Editor’s Choice
Traveling to Europe and looking for phone and data connections? We recommend the Orange Holiday Europe prepaid international Sim card. Works in 30 of the largest countries in Europe. More Info
Purchasing a local SIM card may be a good solution for some instances, but certainly not for traveling across Europe. You will quickly get tired of constantly changing your SIM card, and the people you try to stay in contact with will have to play a guessing game when determining which number they should use to contact you. A much better alternative is to purchase an international SIM card that you can use in all of the countries that you will be visiting, thus keeping the same number and never worrying about extra charges. Even though there are many international SIM card providers, one stands out as the best choice for traveling in Europe. We are talking, of course, about Mobal and their new Europe Plus SIM. Best SIM Card For Europe Travel
Orange Holiday SIM
Our number one favorite option is the Orange Holiday SIM.

The Best International Sim Card For Europe with Data - The World Was Here First The Best International Sim Card For Europe with Data
The Best International Sim Card For Europe with Data
Table of Contents
Best SIM Card for Europe Comparison
Will my Phone Work in Europe?
Does Your Phone Use GSM?
Is My Phone Unlocked?
Best International SIM Card for Europe with Data
Three Prepaid SIM with 12GB Data
Orange Prepaid SIM Card with 20GB Data
EE Prepaid Data SIM Card with 6GB Data
Giffgaff Prepaid SIM with 20GB Data
Cellhire Prepaid SIM Card with 8GB Data
What About Buying a Local SIM Card?
 Some carriers might offer an international data option, however, these plans also tend to be expensive, particularly when compared to prepaid SIM cards that you can buy online. This means that the best option is to buy a prepaid SIM for Europe. Unfortunately, many phone providers obviously don’t want to make it easy for you to use another carrier abroad. These are, therefore, some things that are essential to consider before purchasing an international SIM card for Europe. Does Your Phone Use GSM? Mobile phones around the world use one of two different types of technology: CDMA or GSM. Without getting into the technical differences between the two, it means that you can’t put a SIM card that uses GSM into a mobile phone with CDMA technology or vica-versa. In most of the world, including Europe, mobile phones use GSM technology. So if you’re travelling to Europe from anywhere except North America, then your phone will be compatiable in Europe.

Some carriers might offer an international data option, however, these plans also tend to be expensive, particularly when compared to prepaid SIM cards that you can buy online. This means that the best option is to buy a prepaid SIM for Europe. Unfortunately, many phone providers obviously don’t want to make it easy for you to use another carrier abroad. These are, therefore, some things that are essential to consider before purchasing an international SIM card for Europe. Does Your Phone Use GSM? Mobile phones around the world use one of two different types of technology: CDMA or GSM. Without getting into the technical differences between the two, it means that you can’t put a SIM card that uses GSM into a mobile phone with CDMA technology or vica-versa. In most of the world, including Europe, mobile phones use GSM technology. So if you’re travelling to Europe from anywhere except North America, then your phone will be compatiable in Europe.

Guide to Buying a SIM Card in Europe | EuroCheapo.com Buying a SIM card in Europe: The cheapest way to use a smartphone while traveling
Buying a SIM card in Europe: The cheapest way to use a smartphone while traveling
In this article
Traveling abroad? Your smartphone options
Purchasing an international package from your carrier
Winging it without a package
Purchasing a SIM Card abroad
The benefits of buying a SIM card in Europe
How does it work?
What about locked phones?
AT&T customers
T-Mobile customers
Verizon customers
What happens if you can’t unlock your phone?
Use an old phone
Buy a cheap phone in Europe
Buy a cheap phone before leaving for Europe
How do you install the SIM card?
Buying SIM cards in Europe
Considerations when shopping for SIM cards
Package or pay-as-you-go
How much do calls cost
Connection charge
Other countries
Wi-Fi hotspots
Finally, don’t forget…
When you place a SIM card in your phone, your phone number will change.
Your SIM card questions and stories
Heading to Europe? Get our ebook for free!
About the author
Poland: A Budget travel guide to Krakow
 One notable exception is T-Mobile, which offers its “Simple Choice” customers free international data and calls for only $.25 per minute.) Some travelers who “wing it” place their phone into “airplane mode” for most of the trip, restricting email and web browsing to times when they’re connected to a Wi-Fi network. Others just keep their cellular data and roaming off, and use their phones for texting and calling. Still, expensive dangers lurk (especially if you haven’t set up your phone correctly ). Purchasing a SIM Card abroad
You can also purchase a SIM Card from a local phone carrier in Europe. As we’ll discuss below, you can either use it in your regular US smartphone (if your phone permits it), use it in an old phone that is SIM-card compatible, or buy a cheap phone (either back home before you leave or once in Europe) for the new SIM Card. Options, options… Looking over the SIM cards available for purchase at a “Relay” newsstand at Charles de Gaulle airport. Photo: EuroCheapo
The benefits of buying a SIM card in Europe
Why would you go through the hassle of all this? Because buying and using a SIM card in Europe will almost certainly be far cheaper than using your home carrier while traveling abroad.

Guide to Buying a SIM Card in Europe | EuroCheapo.com

Buying a SIM card in Europe: The cheapest way to use a smartphone while traveling
Buying a SIM card in Europe: The cheapest way to use a smartphone while traveling
In this article
Traveling abroad? Your smartphone options
Purchasing an international package from your carrier
Winging it without a package
Purchasing a SIM Card abroad
The benefits of buying a SIM card in Europe
How does it work?
What about locked phones?
AT&T customers
T-Mobile customers
Verizon customers
What happens if you can’t unlock your phone?
Use an old phone
Buy a cheap phone in Europe
Buy a cheap phone before leaving for Europe
How do you install the SIM card?
Buying SIM cards in Europe
Considerations when shopping for SIM cards
Package or pay-as-you-go
How much do calls cost
Connection charge
Other countries
Wi-Fi hotspots
Finally, don’t forget…
When you place a SIM card in your phone, your phone number will change.
Your SIM card questions and stories
Heading to Europe? Get our ebook for free!
About the author
Poland: A Budget travel guide to Krakow

One notable exception is T-Mobile, which offers its “Simple Choice” customers free international data and calls for only $.25 per minute.) Some travelers who “wing it” place their phone into “airplane mode” for most of the trip, restricting email and web browsing to times when they’re connected to a Wi-Fi network. Others just keep their cellular data and roaming off, and use their phones for texting and calling. Still, expensive dangers lurk (especially if you haven’t set up your phone correctly ). Purchasing a SIM Card abroad
You can also purchase a SIM Card from a local phone carrier in Europe. As we’ll discuss below, you can either use it in your regular US smartphone (if your phone permits it), use it in an old phone that is SIM-card compatible, or buy a cheap phone (either back home before you leave or once in Europe) for the new SIM Card. Options, options… Looking over the SIM cards available for purchase at a “Relay” newsstand at Charles de Gaulle airport. Photo: EuroCheapo
The benefits of buying a SIM card in Europe
Why would you go through the hassle of all this? Because buying and using a SIM card in Europe will almost certainly be far cheaper than using your home carrier while traveling abroad.

How to Buy a Prepaid Phone in Europe: 14 Steps (with Pictures) How to Buy a Prepaid Phone in Europe
How to Buy a Prepaid Phone in Europe
Method 1
of 2:
Buying a Phone and SIM Card Combo
Method 2
of 2:
Bringing a Phone and Getting a SIM Card
Community Q&A
Tips
References
About This Article
Is this article up to date?
 In many cases, thankfully, it’s as easy as walking into a convenience store and handing over some Euros! Steps
Method 1
of 2: Buying a Phone and SIM Card Combo
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\u00a9 2021 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.
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1
Research your phone-buying strategy before reaching Europe. Although there is some standardization across the nations in the European Union (EU), buying a prepaid phone depends a great deal on which nation or nations you’ll be travelling to. A few days or (better yet) weeks before departing, search “buying a prepaid phone in …” and the names of the countries you’ll be visiting. Keep the following in mind as well: All European mobile phones (EU and non-EU) operate on the GSM system, as opposed to the CDMA system used in North America and some parts of Asia.

How to Buy a Prepaid Phone in Europe
How to Buy a Prepaid Phone in Europe
Method 1
of 2:
Buying a Phone and SIM Card Combo
Method 2
of 2:
Bringing a Phone and Getting a SIM Card
Community Q&A
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Using Verizon in Europe - Fodor's Travel Talk Forums Using Verizon in Europe
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We just returned from Europe and used the Verizon $40 plan for each of our phones (Samsung Android) and they worked well everywhere and we did text and call throughout the trip. We were in all three of the countries you mentioned as well as several other countries. Reply
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Oct 8th, 2016, 11:17 PM
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xyz123 is correct in stating that when using a GSM network, any call to North America or any other country, will require one´s first dialing ¨00¨ or ¨+¨ before the country code. However, T-Mobile could easily set up their VoIP networks to include the ¨+¨ function precluding the need for the user to dial it hi

Using Verizon in Europe - Fodor's Travel Talk Forums

Using Verizon in Europe
Using Verizon in Europe

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We just returned from Europe and used the Verizon $40 plan for each of our phones (Samsung Android) and they worked well everywhere and we did text and call throughout the trip. We were in all three of the countries you mentioned as well as several other countries. Reply
Cali
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Oct 8th, 2016, 11:17 PM
# 11
Sarastro
Join Date: Apr 2007
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xyz123 is correct in stating that when using a GSM network, any call to North America or any other country, will require one´s first dialing ¨00¨ or ¨+¨ before the country code. However, T-Mobile could easily set up their VoIP networks to include the ¨+¨ function precluding the need for the user to dial it hi

FAQ: Swapping SIMs to save big on calls abroad - CNET FAQ: Swapping SIMs to save big on calls abroad
FAQ: Swapping SIMs to save big on calls abroad But before you buy an unlocked phone or plan to use your own unlocked phone abroad check to make sure that the phone supports the appropriate radio frequencies. In the U.S., GSM operators use the 850MHz and 1900MHz frequency bands. In Europe they use the 900MHz and 1800MHz frequency bands. So it is important to make sure the phone you buy or plan to use on your trip operates in the right frequency. Can I buy an unlocked phone abroad? Yes, many wireless operators around the world offer inexpensive prepaid phones. For example, Orange in the U.K. sells the Samsung E1120, a very basic phone, for about $15. If you plan on using the phone you buy on future trips, make sure it is a quadband phone that supports all the major GSM frequencies used around the world. If I don't have an unlocked GSM phone can I rent one? Yes you can.

FAQ: Swapping SIMs to save big on calls abroad - CNET

FAQ: Swapping SIMs to save big on calls abroad
FAQ: Swapping SIMs to save big on calls abroad

But before you buy an unlocked phone or plan to use your own unlocked phone abroad check to make sure that the phone supports the appropriate radio frequencies. In the U.S., GSM operators use the 850MHz and 1900MHz frequency bands. In Europe they use the 900MHz and 1800MHz frequency bands. So it is important to make sure the phone you buy or plan to use on your trip operates in the right frequency. Can I buy an unlocked phone abroad? Yes, many wireless operators around the world offer inexpensive prepaid phones. For example, Orange in the U.K. sells the Samsung E1120, a very basic phone, for about $15. If you plan on using the phone you buy on future trips, make sure it is a quadband phone that supports all the major GSM frequencies used around the world. If I don't have an unlocked GSM phone can I rent one? Yes you can.

The iPhone in Germany and Europe – Part 2 | The German Way & More The iPhone in Germany and Europe – Part 2
The iPhone in Germany and Europe – Part 2
A Guide to Using Your iPhone in Germany
Taking Care of Business Before You Leave
FAQ: Using an iPhone in Germany and Europe
International Text and Data
 Already have an iPhone? Then just continue to read the information on this page. Still need to buy an iPhone? Then go to this page: Buying an iPhone for Germany
Taking Care of Business Before You Leave
Contract iPhones – Short-Term
If you already have a contract (locked) iPhone purchased in North America through AT&T, T-Mobile or Verizon and you are visiting Europe for only a few weeks, you can get a special international roaming rate. You should do this before you travel. A few years ago, T-Mobile introduced favorable rate plans that include “unlimited talk, text & data while on the T-Mobile network, and unlimited data & text in 120+ countries & destinations,” including Austria, Germany and Switzerland. T-Mobile’s Simple Choice plan (from $50/month) offers unlimited international data and text with talk at only 20 cents per minute in Germany and most of Europe. AT&T also has special international roaming plans when using your iPhone in Europe or other overseas locations, but AT&T charges about a dollar a minute. It does offer much lower rates using Wi-Fi.

Already have an iPhone? Then just continue to read the information on this page. Still need to buy an iPhone? Then go to this page: Buying an iPhone for Germany
Taking Care of Business Before You Leave
Contract iPhones – Short-Term
If you already have a contract (locked) iPhone purchased in North America through AT&T, T-Mobile or Verizon and you are visiting Europe for only a few weeks, you can get a special international roaming rate. You should do this before you travel. A few years ago, T-Mobile introduced favorable rate plans that include “unlimited talk, text & data while on the T-Mobile network, and unlimited data & text in 120+ countries & destinations,” including Austria, Germany and Switzerland. T-Mobile’s Simple Choice plan (from $50/month) offers unlimited international data and text with talk at only 20 cents per minute in Germany and most of Europe. AT&T also has special international roaming plans when using your iPhone in Europe or other overseas locations, but AT&T charges about a dollar a minute. It does offer much lower rates using Wi-Fi.

Best roaming plans 2020: Which is the cheapest network for EU a Best roaming plans 2020: Which is the cheapest network for EU and abroad?
Best roaming plans 2020: Which is the cheapest network for EU and abroad?
- You're able to use your bundled texts, minutes and mobile data anywhere in the European Union
Vodafone roaming
Three roaming
O2 roaming
EE roaming
iD from Carphone Warehouse roaming
Tesco Mobile roaming
Select your SIM Only deal
 The best phones available to buy today
Three roaming
Three offers its Go Roam incentive to Pay Monthly starting at £10 for 4GB and Pay As You Go customers (£10 for 4GB), offering free roaming in 71 countries, some of which are not in the EU. It doesn't matter what device you are using and like Vodafone, you can use your phone as you would in the UK but Three doesn't charge you anything for the privilege when you go further afield, such as the US or Australia. What's more, it works on PAYG plans too. The Go Roam in Europe destinations are: Aland Islands, Austria, Azores, Balearic Islands, Belgium, Bulgaria, Canary Islands, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, French Guiana, Germany, Gibraltar, Greece, Guadeloupe, Guernsey, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Isle of Man, Italy, Jersey, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Madeira, Malta, Martinique, Mayotte, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Réunion, Romania, Saint Barthelemy, Saint Martin, San Marino, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, The Netherlands, Vatican City. Outside of Europe: Australia, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Hong Kong, Indonesia, Israel, Macau, New Zealand, Nicaragua, Panama, Peru, Puerto Rico, Singapore, Sri Lanka, Uruguay, US Virgin Islands, USA, Vietnam. There is also a £5 a day data passport, allow unlimited mobile Internet in those countries above and: Azerbaijan, Canada, Malaysia, Mexico, Moldova, Montenegro, Myanmar, Pakistan, Russian Federation, Saudi Arabia, Serbia, South Korea, Taiwan, Thailand, Tunisia, Turkey, Ukraine and United Arab Emirates. There is one snag, if you have All-You-Can-Eat data, texts and minutes then only up to 19GB in Europe (12GB non Eu), 5000 texts and 3000 minutes are included in the incentive for no extra charge but that's still quite a lot.

Best roaming plans 2020: Which is the cheapest network for EU a

Best roaming plans 2020: Which is the cheapest network for EU and abroad?
Best roaming plans 2020: Which is the cheapest network for EU and abroad?
- You're able to use your bundled texts, minutes and mobile data anywhere in the European Union
Vodafone roaming
Three roaming
O2 roaming
EE roaming
iD from Carphone Warehouse roaming
Tesco Mobile roaming
Select your SIM Only deal

The Best International Sim Card For Europe with Data - The World Was Here First The Best International Sim Card For Europe with Data
The Best International Sim Card For Europe with Data
Table of Contents
Best SIM Card for Europe Comparison
Will my Phone Work in Europe?
Does Your Phone Use GSM?
Is My Phone Unlocked?
Best International SIM Card for Europe with Data
Three Prepaid SIM with 12GB Data
Orange Prepaid SIM Card with 20GB Data
EE Prepaid Data SIM Card with 6GB Data
Giffgaff Prepaid SIM with 20GB Data
Cellhire Prepaid SIM Card with 8GB Data
What About Buying a Local SIM Card?
 A number of carriers only offer slow mobile data speeds such as 2G which will make accessing the internet on the go a slow and painful process, particularly if relying on data when driving around Europe! Having data is extremely handy when driving in Europe
Best International SIM Card for Europe with Data
These are some of the best SIM cards for Europe travel if you want to ensure you have easy access to data and making phone calls! Three Prepaid SIM with 12GB Data
This Three Prepaid SIM Card (also available from SimOptions here ) is undoubtedly one of the best SIM cards for travelling Europe. It comes with 12GB Data, unlimited calls and texts that can be used over a 30 day period. This SIM card will work across 71 countries worldwide including all countries within the European Union. If you’re from one of these 71 countries that include places like the USA, Canada, Australia, New Zealand & Singapore you can activate your SIM card at home to ensure that it works before travelling to Europe. This fantastic international SIM card is run by Three UK meaning you can easily recharge online or via the phone while on the road without any language barriers if you speak English. A couple of things to keep in mind with this SIM card is that you can’t use it as a personal hotspot when abroad and to make sure to switch off data if visiting a country that isn’t included in their 71 countries list as the data roaming costs can be very expensive. You can also use the minutes included in the pack to only call other UK or European numbers so this SIM card isn’t ideal if you plan to call other international numbers. Though, there is obviously plenty of data to use for Whatsapp or Skype instead!

Rick Steves' Packing List Rick’s Packing List
Rick’s Packing List
By Rick Steves
Clothing
Documents, Money, and Travel Info
Toiletries and Personal Items
Electronics
Optional Bring-Alongs
 If you can’t risk a bad-hair day, buy a cheap, compact hairdryer in Europe or bring a travel-friendly one from home. Electronics
Note that many of these things are high-ticket items; guard them carefully or consider insuring them. Smartphone/mobile phone. Bring your smartphone to keep in touch with folks back home and for accessing resources on the road such as email, travel apps, and GPS. If you just want to make calls or send texts, a simple US mobile phone might work perfectly in Europe — or you can buy a cheap mobile phone to use while you’re there. Digital camera. Take along an extra memory card and battery, and don’t forget the charger and a cable for downloading images. Tablet, ereader, or portable media player. Download apps, ebooks, and music before you leave home.

Rick Steves' Packing List

Rick’s Packing List
Rick’s Packing List
By Rick Steves
Clothing
Documents, Money, and Travel Info
Toiletries and Personal Items
Electronics
Optional Bring-Alongs

If you can’t risk a bad-hair day, buy a cheap, compact hairdryer in Europe or bring a travel-friendly one from home. Electronics
Note that many of these things are high-ticket items; guard them carefully or consider insuring them. Smartphone/mobile phone. Bring your smartphone to keep in touch with folks back home and for accessing resources on the road such as email, travel apps, and GPS. If you just want to make calls or send texts, a simple US mobile phone might work perfectly in Europe — or you can buy a cheap mobile phone to use while you’re there. Digital camera. Take along an extra memory card and battery, and don’t forget the charger and a cable for downloading images. Tablet, ereader, or portable media player. Download apps, ebooks, and music before you leave home.

Smartphone Strategy: Best SIM Cards in France for your trip | EuroCheapo The best SIM Cards for your trip to France
The best SIM Cards for your trip to France
The best SIM Cards for your trip to France
1. Orange Prepaid Holiday SIM Card
2. SFR Prepaid SIM Card
3. LeFrenchMobile Prepaid SIM Card
4. Free Mobile SIM Card
More on SIM cards in Europe
Heading to Europe? Get our ebook for free!
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 You can read much more about it here: • How to use a SIM card in Europe
• How to set up your American iPhone for a European vacation
• Tips to keep your iPhone safe in Paris
• The top SIM cards for your trip to Spain
• Germany: The best SIM cards for tourists
Have you used a SIM Card in Europe? Share your favorites and tips for saving while traveling with your smartphone. Heading to Europe? Get our ebook for free! Subscribe to our newsletter and we'll send you " Simple Ways to Save in Europe " for free! We won't send you spam. Unsubscribe at any time. About the author
Mayowa Ige is a Nigerian-born, So-Cal raised pug lover.

Smartphone Strategy: Best SIM Cards in France for your trip | EuroCheapo

The best SIM Cards for your trip to France
The best SIM Cards for your trip to France
The best SIM Cards for your trip to France
1. Orange Prepaid Holiday SIM Card
2. SFR Prepaid SIM Card
3. LeFrenchMobile Prepaid SIM Card
4. Free Mobile SIM Card
More on SIM cards in Europe
Heading to Europe? Get our ebook for free!
About the author
Book Your Trip
Destination
Find us on Facebook
Tickets and tours

You can read much more about it here: • How to use a SIM card in Europe
• How to set up your American iPhone for a European vacation
• Tips to keep your iPhone safe in Paris
• The top SIM cards for your trip to Spain
• Germany: The best SIM cards for tourists
Have you used a SIM Card in Europe? Share your favorites and tips for saving while traveling with your smartphone. Heading to Europe? Get our ebook for free! Subscribe to our newsletter and we'll send you " Simple Ways to Save in Europe " for free! We won't send you spam. Unsubscribe at any time. About the author
Mayowa Ige is a Nigerian-born, So-Cal raised pug lover.

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MaryAnn
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1 decade ago
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your tracfone will not work in Europe since you are unable to do international roaming with it. To use a sim card from Europe would require the phone to be unlocked and Tracfone doesnt do that. You will need to purchase an unlocked phone to use service and a new sim over in Europe. Source(s):work for ATT customer care
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MaryAnn
Lv 7
1 decade ago
Favorite Answer
your tracfone will not work in Europe since you are unable to do international roaming with it. To use a sim card from Europe would require the phone to be unlocked and Tracfone doesnt do that. You will need to purchase an unlocked phone to use service and a new sim over in Europe. Source(s):work for ATT customer care
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Using Verizon in Europe - Fodor's Travel Talk Forums Using Verizon in Europe
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For those interested I have had the same problem with my IPhone and had to configure it so that my correspondants would get my texts. And I'm European, so not using Verizon. IPhone config...
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We just returned from Europe and used the Verizon $40 plan for each of our phones (Samsung Android) and they worked well everywhere and we did text and call throughout the trip. We were in all three of the countries you mentioned as well as several other countries. Reply
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Oct 8th, 2016, 11:17 PM
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For those interested I have had the same problem with my IPhone and had to configure it so that my correspondants would get my texts. And I'm European, so not using Verizon. IPhone config...
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Oct 8th, 2016, 10:45 PM
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We just returned from Europe and used the Verizon $40 plan for each of our phones (Samsung Android) and they worked well everywhere and we did text and call throughout the trip. We were in all three of the countries you mentioned as well as several other countries. Reply
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The iPhone in Germany and Europe – Part 2 | The German Way & More The iPhone in Germany and Europe – Part 2
The iPhone in Germany and Europe – Part 2
A Guide to Using Your iPhone in Germany
Taking Care of Business Before You Leave
FAQ: Using an iPhone in Germany and Europe
International Text and Data
 But even if your iPhone is still locked, you have some good options for short-term use of your smartphone in Europe. Read on. Military Exceptions: If you are military, you can get your mobile phone unlocked early if you’re being assigned to Germany or some other international assignment. All you have to do is verify your foreign deployment with your wireless provider. With an unlocked phone, you can use a SIM card from a wireless provider in Germany for lower local rates. See the FAQ below for more. SIM, GSM, and 5G
Now that Verizon has joined the other US carriers in using 4G/LTE/5G technology, this is not as much of a concern as it once was. Now GSM has conquered the world, and iPhones sold by AT&T, T-Mobile, Verizon, and Apple in the USA use the mobile phone technology found in Europe and most countries around the globe. ( Sprint is now part of T-Mobile USA.)

But even if your iPhone is still locked, you have some good options for short-term use of your smartphone in Europe. Read on. Military Exceptions: If you are military, you can get your mobile phone unlocked early if you’re being assigned to Germany or some other international assignment. All you have to do is verify your foreign deployment with your wireless provider. With an unlocked phone, you can use a SIM card from a wireless provider in Germany for lower local rates. See the FAQ below for more. SIM, GSM, and 5G
Now that Verizon has joined the other US carriers in using 4G/LTE/5G technology, this is not as much of a concern as it once was. Now GSM has conquered the world, and iPhones sold by AT&T, T-Mobile, Verizon, and Apple in the USA use the mobile phone technology found in Europe and most countries around the globe. ( Sprint is now part of T-Mobile USA.)

Which Verizon Phones Work Overseas? | WhistleOut Which Verizon Phones Work Overseas?
Which Verizon Phones Work Overseas?
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 In order to have a working phone in the majority of the world, you’ll need to own a “world device” that is universally compatible in the U.S. and the rest of the world. Here is a list of all the Verizon phones that are labeled “world devices” and can be used in most countries around the globe: LG G7 ThinQ
Samsung Galaxy S9 and S9+
Apple iPhone X
Google Pixel 2 XL
Apple iPhone 8
Apple iPhone 7
Apple iPhone 7 Plus
Samsung Galaxy S8
Samsung Galaxy S8+
Google Pixel
Motorola Moto Z Droid
LG G6
Goggle Pixel XL
LG Stylo 2 V
Motorola Moto Z Force Droid
Motorola Moto Z Play Droid
Apple iPhone SE
Samsung Galaxy S7
Apple iPhone 6s
Samsung Galaxy J7 V
Apple 10.5-inch iPad Pro
LG K20 V
Apple iPhone 6s Plus
HTC Desire 530
LG V20
Samsung Galaxy J3 Eclipse
Apple iPad
Apple iPad mini 4
Microsoft Lumia 735
Kyocerea DuraXV Plus
HTC 10
Samsung Galaxy Tab S2
Samsung Galaxy Book
Samsung Galaxy Tab E
Apple iPad Pro
Samsung Convoy 4
LG Exalt LTE
Apple iPad Pro (9.7 inch)
LG Terra
Samsung Galaxy Tab E (8.0”)
Samsung Galaxy J3 V
Kyocera DuraXV Non Camera
Apple iPhone 6s
Apple iPhone 6s Plus
Samsung Galaxy S6 Edge
Samsung Galaxy S4
Samsung Galaxy S5
Apple iPhone SE
Before you head to the airport, compare cell phone plans for the best international plans and options. Find a better phone plan
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Which Verizon Phones Work Overseas? | WhistleOut

Which Verizon Phones Work Overseas?
Which Verizon Phones Work Overseas?
Find a better phone plan
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Compare phones and plans from the following carriers...
Latest Cell Phone Deals
iPhone 11 for $10/month (no trade required)
FREE iPhone 12 w/ trade-in and new line
Up to $700 off iPhone 12 w/ trade-in and new line + $300 gift card
US Mobile Unlimited All plan: Save $5 per month for first 6 months
Unlimited data for $30/month
Unlimited talk & text + 1GB data for just $10/month
Never Miss Out on Cell Phone & Internet Deals
Email Address

How to Avoid Those Annoying International Roaming Charges | Condé Nast Traveler How to Avoid Those Annoying International Roaming Charges
How to Avoid Those Annoying International Roaming Charges
Here's how to stay connected without spending a fortune.
 Once your phone is unlocked, you can purchase a local SIM card in your destination and use your phone on the local network. You’ll have to pay a few dollars for the SIM card—and spend part of your trip inside a cell phone store—but typically you can get good local pre-paid rates this way. Vodafone, one of the top carriers in Europe, for example, sells SIM cards that provide 100 megabytes of data anywhere in a 35-nation "Europe Zone" for about $4.50 per day. ( Most people use less than 100 megabytes every day.) Try a travel-specific plan
MTX Connect, a mobile operator that provides data-only plans, has launched a new pay-as-you-go service for U.S. travelers going to any of 30 European countries. Prior to departure, you request a free MTX SIM card for your unlocked tablet or smartphone. Upon arrival, your device will connect to the local cellular network and work as usual. A basic plan costs about 10 cents per megabyte—enough to send about 10 emails without any attachments—and there's also a daily plan that offers unlimited data for 24 hours for €10 (about $11). For heavy data users—or those on longer trips—a one-gigabyte plan is available for €49 ($53). Go Wi-Fi only
Of course, you could always just turn off your cellular data—and remain connected:

How to Avoid Those Annoying International Roaming Charges | Condé Nast Traveler

How to Avoid Those Annoying International Roaming Charges
How to Avoid Those Annoying International Roaming Charges
Here's how to stay connected without spending a fortune.

Once your phone is unlocked, you can purchase a local SIM card in your destination and use your phone on the local network. You’ll have to pay a few dollars for the SIM card—and spend part of your trip inside a cell phone store—but typically you can get good local pre-paid rates this way. Vodafone, one of the top carriers in Europe, for example, sells SIM cards that provide 100 megabytes of data anywhere in a 35-nation "Europe Zone" for about $4.50 per day. ( Most people use less than 100 megabytes every day.) Try a travel-specific plan
MTX Connect, a mobile operator that provides data-only plans, has launched a new pay-as-you-go service for U.S. travelers going to any of 30 European countries. Prior to departure, you request a free MTX SIM card for your unlocked tablet or smartphone. Upon arrival, your device will connect to the local cellular network and work as usual. A basic plan costs about 10 cents per megabyte—enough to send about 10 emails without any attachments—and there's also a daily plan that offers unlimited data for 24 hours for €10 (about $11). For heavy data users—or those on longer trips—a one-gigabyte plan is available for €49 ($53). Go Wi-Fi only
Of course, you could always just turn off your cellular data—and remain connected:

How to Buy a Prepaid Phone in Europe: 14 Steps (with Pictures) How to Buy a Prepaid Phone in Europe
How to Buy a Prepaid Phone in Europe
Method 1
of 2:
Buying a Phone and SIM Card Combo
Method 2
of 2:
Bringing a Phone and Getting a SIM Card
Community Q&A
Tips
References
About This Article
Is this article up to date?
 Not all convenience store clerks can give you the best guidance on buying a phone and SIM card. If you’d like more assistance, head to a retail outlet for one of the mobile providers in the country you’re visiting. You’ll find them at airports and in retail districts in towns and cities throughout Europe. These carrier-specific shops, of course, only sell phones and SIM cards linked to their network. This means you’ll have fewer options and may end up paying more as a result. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/f\/f0\/Buy-a-Prepaid-Phone-in-Europe-Step-4-Version-2.jpg\/v4-460px-Buy-a-Prepaid-Phone-in-Europe-Step-4-Version-2.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/f\/f0\/Buy-a-Prepaid-Phone-in-Europe-Step-4-Version-2.jpg\/aid1579358-v4-728px-Buy-a-Prepaid-Phone-in-Europe-Step-4-Version-2.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"

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4
Buy a reloadable prepaid phone and SIM as the budget option. If you simply want to be able to make affordable phone calls and text messages while in Europe, this is probably your best bet.

How to Buy a Prepaid Phone in Europe: 14 Steps (with Pictures)

Not all convenience store clerks can give you the best guidance on buying a phone and SIM card. If you’d like more assistance, head to a retail outlet for one of the mobile providers in the country you’re visiting. You’ll find them at airports and in retail districts in towns and cities throughout Europe. These carrier-specific shops, of course, only sell phones and SIM cards linked to their network. This means you’ll have fewer options and may end up paying more as a result. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/f\/f0\/Buy-a-Prepaid-Phone-in-Europe-Step-4-Version-2.jpg\/v4-460px-Buy-a-Prepaid-Phone-in-Europe-Step-4-Version-2.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/f\/f0\/Buy-a-Prepaid-Phone-in-Europe-Step-4-Version-2.jpg\/aid1579358-v4-728px-Buy-a-Prepaid-Phone-in-Europe-Step-4-Version-2.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"

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4
Buy a reloadable prepaid phone and SIM as the budget option. If you simply want to be able to make affordable phone calls and text messages while in Europe, this is probably your best bet.

Can I Use My iPhone in Europe? | 10Best

Can I Use My iPhone in Europe?
Can I Use My iPhone in Europe?
Keep connected on your Euro trip
Buying a European SIM card
GSM vs. CDMA phones
Unlocking a phone
Using a European SIM card
International roaming with a U.S. carrier

Convert that smartphone for European use in two primary ways: buy a SIM card in Europe or purchase a travel plan through a U.S.-based carrier. Buying a European SIM card
This is usually the cheapest way to use a smartphone while traveling in Europe, and it's pretty simple, depending on the actual phone in question. How to Call Europe From the US
Does Carnival Cruises Have Free Wi-Fi? The Pros and Cons of a Carnival Cruise Credit Card
Europe hosts several cellphone carriers, each offering SIM card and travel package deals. The best deal varies depending on the countries you plan to visit and the length of your trip, but here's an example of one European package: Orange, a major French carrier, sells a SIM package for EUR 39 ($46) that includes the following: A SIM card with a French phone number
120 minutes of phone calls, good anywhere in Europe
1,000 text messages, valid anywhere in Europe
1GB of data transfer, throughout Europe
It's easy to refill the package online, as well, should you max out your data or phone minutes. But keep an eye on these cellphone carriers' policies – some require you to bring in your original passport in order to qualify for the purchase of a SIM package, for example. GSM vs. CDMA phones
Still, there's a catch:

How Do I Use My Cell Phone While Traveling to Europe? How Do I Use My Cell Phone While Traveling to Europe?
How Do I Use My Cell Phone While Traveling to Europe?
Table of Contents
Using my cell phone while traveling to Europe Talk To Your Current Provider
How to Use Your Smartphone in Europe
What type of phone do I have
Cell Phone While Traveling to Europe and Smartphone Data Plans and Texting
Get A Local SIM Card
Using a European SIM Card
Charging Your Cell Phone in Europe
Prepaid Cell Phones in Europe
Set Up A Mobile Hotspot
TEP Wireless vs Skyroam VS Keepgo When Traveling to Europe
Keepgo
Skyroam
TEP Wireless
Find WiFi and Use Chatting Apps
FREE iPad iPhone Travel Apps for your Cell Phone While Traveling to Europe
Hostel Hero:
Hostelworld:
Stanza:
Every Trail:
What Knot:
Skype (only for iPhone):
iTranslate:
Spending Light:
Convert Everything:
Kayak:
Lonely Planet:
Google Earth:
Wi-Fi Finder:
Using my SmartPhone While Traveling to Europe FAQ
What should I do with my phone when traveling to Europe?
Do I need an international phone plan for Europe?
Do US cell phones work in Europe?
How do you use your phone when traveling internationally?
Sharing is caring!
 Don’t forget to record the PIN number and ask how to check the credit balance. In some European countries your SIM card may have to be registered along with your passport for security reasons. Follow the instructions and after an hour or two you’ll be able to use it. If you run out of SIM, you can get one in any mobile phone store and tell the salesperson how much credit you want. The clerk is either going to give you the credit over the phone or you will be given a voucher with instructions. How to Stay Connected With Airalo eSIMs
Best Data Plan WiFi Hotspot Devices for Travel
Charging Your Cell Phone in Europe
One of the most common mistakes people make is thinking that you’ll need a costly voltage converter to charge your mobile. In fact, the majority of mobile devices, tablets and laptops have battery chargers that can work on 220 volts used in Europe and countries in the world, as well as 110 volts (the US). Cell phone chargers can work with different frequencies from 50 Hertz to 60 Hertz. Unless your mobile device specifically says to use a converter, don’t use it because it could actually damage your mobile because it already has a converter. If you want to know if your cell phone has dual voltage capabilities, read the words on the charger.

How Do I Use My Cell Phone While Traveling to Europe?

How Do I Use My Cell Phone While Traveling to Europe?
How Do I Use My Cell Phone While Traveling to Europe?
Table of Contents
Using my cell phone while traveling to Europe Talk To Your Current Provider
How to Use Your Smartphone in Europe
What type of phone do I have
Cell Phone While Traveling to Europe and Smartphone Data Plans and Texting
Get A Local SIM Card
Using a European SIM Card
Charging Your Cell Phone in Europe
Prepaid Cell Phones in Europe
Set Up A Mobile Hotspot
TEP Wireless vs Skyroam VS Keepgo When Traveling to Europe
Keepgo
Skyroam
TEP Wireless
Find WiFi and Use Chatting Apps
FREE iPad iPhone Travel Apps for your Cell Phone While Traveling to Europe
Hostel Hero:
Hostelworld:
Stanza:
Every Trail:
What Knot:
Skype (only for iPhone):
iTranslate:
Spending Light:
Convert Everything:
Kayak:
Lonely Planet:
Google Earth:
Wi-Fi Finder:
Using my SmartPhone While Traveling to Europe FAQ
What should I do with my phone when traveling to Europe?
Do I need an international phone plan for Europe?
Do US cell phones work in Europe?
How do you use your phone when traveling internationally?
Sharing is caring!

Don’t forget to record the PIN number and ask how to check the credit balance. In some European countries your SIM card may have to be registered along with your passport for security reasons. Follow the instructions and after an hour or two you’ll be able to use it. If you run out of SIM, you can get one in any mobile phone store and tell the salesperson how much credit you want. The clerk is either going to give you the credit over the phone or you will be given a voucher with instructions. How to Stay Connected With Airalo eSIMs
Best Data Plan WiFi Hotspot Devices for Travel
Charging Your Cell Phone in Europe
One of the most common mistakes people make is thinking that you’ll need a costly voltage converter to charge your mobile. In fact, the majority of mobile devices, tablets and laptops have battery chargers that can work on 220 volts used in Europe and countries in the world, as well as 110 volts (the US). Cell phone chargers can work with different frequencies from 50 Hertz to 60 Hertz. Unless your mobile device specifically says to use a converter, don’t use it because it could actually damage your mobile because it already has a converter. If you want to know if your cell phone has dual voltage capabilities, read the words on the charger.

FAQ: Swapping SIMs to save big on calls abroad - CNET FAQ: Swapping SIMs to save big on calls abroad
FAQ: Swapping SIMs to save big on calls abroad These phones can be unlocked just like any other GSM phone, and a new SIM card can be slotted into them. Check the Verizon and Sprint Web sites for a list of GSM-compatible phones. Can I buy an unlocked phone before I leave for my trip? Many Web sites, including Amazon.com through various partner retailers, sell unlocked GSM cell phones. Also big phone manufacturers, such as Nokia and Sony Ericsson, sell unlocked GSM phones in their stores and online. But before you buy an unlocked phone or plan to use your own unlocked phone abroad check to make sure that the phone supports the appropriate radio frequencies. In the U.S., GSM operators use the 850MHz and 1900MHz frequency bands. In Europe they use the 900MHz and 1800MHz frequency bands. So it is important to make sure the phone you buy or plan to use on your trip operates in the right frequency. Can I buy an unlocked phone abroad?

These phones can be unlocked just like any other GSM phone, and a new SIM card can be slotted into them. Check the Verizon and Sprint Web sites for a list of GSM-compatible phones. Can I buy an unlocked phone before I leave for my trip? Many Web sites, including Amazon.com through various partner retailers, sell unlocked GSM cell phones. Also big phone manufacturers, such as Nokia and Sony Ericsson, sell unlocked GSM phones in their stores and online. But before you buy an unlocked phone or plan to use your own unlocked phone abroad check to make sure that the phone supports the appropriate radio frequencies. In the U.S., GSM operators use the 850MHz and 1900MHz frequency bands. In Europe they use the 900MHz and 1800MHz frequency bands. So it is important to make sure the phone you buy or plan to use on your trip operates in the right frequency. Can I buy an unlocked phone abroad?