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Verizon International Phone Plans — Countries, Coverage, Rates, and More

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Verizon International Phone Plans — Countries, Coverage, Rates, and More

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Being at the forefront of the move to 5G connectivity, Verizon is often referred to as one of the best carriers in the U.S. But how does the carrier compare to competitors like AT&T , T-Mobile , and newcomer Google Fi when traveling abroad?

That’s a good question, and it’s an important one to ask if you find yourself out of the country often. So in this article, we’re going to dive deep and take a look at how Verizon’s U.S. phone plans work abroad. We’ll start out by looking at the company’s international plans and their respective pricing. Then, we’ll look at the supported countries and compare the pros and cons of using Verizon abroad.

Spoiler alert: like AT&T, the international options are pretty limited on Verizon. You’ll want to study this article if you’re a current Verizon customer who’s about to travel abroad, or if you’re a traveler that’s considering a switch to Verizon.

Breaking Down Verizon’s International Data Plans

A View of Prague

As teased in the intro, Verizon has a limited (and expensive) set of international plans. There are 3 different plans available, ranging from a monthly international data allowance to a plan that lets you use your U.S. data plan while traveling abroad.

Here’s a look at all of the available options:

All Verizon customers are automatically enrolled in pay as you go international data, texting, and calling. If you don’t enroll in another plan on this list and take your phone out of airplane mode when abroad, you’ll automatically be charged at the following rates:

  • Talk: $0.99-$2.99 per minute, depending on the country
  • Text: $0.50 to send, $0.05 to receive
  • MMS: $0.25 to send or receive
  • Data: $2.05 per megabyte

There’s no doubt that these prices are absolutely astronomical, hence why we don’t recommend relying on pay as you go international data — it can get very expensive very quickly.

For example, sending a 3 MB picture message on Facebook Messenger would cost a whopping $6.15! And since modern smartphones use data in the background to fetch email, notifications, and more, you may end up being charged just for taking your phone out of airplane mode.

Hot Tip: Thankfully, you can call Verizon to have pay as you go international data disabled on your account. We highly recommend doing this so that you can protect yourself from an astronomical bill on your next trip.

Verizon’s TravelPass plan is nearly identical to AT&T’s International Day Pass plan. This plan lets you use your U.S. data, talk, and text plan abroad for a daily fee.

This plan costs $10 per day per line, and — once enrolled — you’ll only be charged for the days you actually use your phone abroad. This means you can set the plan and forget it. Then, instead of worrying about pay as you go data, you’ll be charged a flat-rate fee for your international phone usage.

Note that you’re billed in 24-hour increments, so if you fly to Brazil and connect to data at 5 p.m. on a Monday, your single $10 fee will be valid until 5 p.m. on Tuesday. You’ll be billed for another 24-hour increment if you continue using your phone after this initial period.

Further, this plan still pulls from your U.S. data, text, and calling allowance, so make sure to keep an eye on how much you use your phone. Otherwise, you might come back home with overage fees.

You can use this plan in any of Verizon’s 185+ supported countries and if needed, you can roam in multiple countries on the same day without paying extra. Don’t worry — we’ll discuss supported countries later in the article.

Finally, you can enroll in a Verizon Monthly Travel Plan. This gives you a set amount of data, calls, and texts to use when you travel abroad. However, the amount of data, calls, and texts included with each plan is limited at best.

Here’s a look at what’s included with Verizon’s 2 Monthly Travel Plans:

If you exceed your data, talk, or text allowance, you’ll be charged at the following rates:

  • $0.35 per minute of talk
  • $0.05 per text message sent
  • $25 per 0.5 GB of data used

Like the TravelPass, this plan works in 185+ countries and can be used across multiple countries if needed. Note that — also like TravelPass — this plan is billed per line, so multiple lines can’t share the same Monthly Travel Plan.

A handful of Verizon plans come with free data, call, and text roaming within North America. This means that when traveling within Canada or Mexico you can continue to use your phone as you would as if you were in the U.S. The plans that include this type of roaming are:

  • All Unlimited plans

If you’re subscribed to one of Verizon’s other plans, you can add North American roaming for $5 per day. This works the same as the TravelPass plan we mentioned earlier — you’re charged per day, but only when you actually use your phone in Canada or Mexico.

So, there are 3 different options for international mobile data on Verizon, but which is the best for you? Here’s why you might pick 1 plan over another.

Stick With Pay as You Go Data If You

  • Don’t plan on using your smartphone or will purchase a local SIM card upon arrival. In our opinion, this option is just too risky to be justified.

Subscribe to TravelPass If You

  • Are only traveling for a few days at a time — $10 per day can add up quickly!
  • Need access to your full data plan and U.S. phone number when traveling abroad.
  • Have a data plan with a high (or unlimited) data limit.

Buy a Monthly Travel Plan If You

  • Plan to travel for an extended period of time.
  • Don’t need to use your phone constantly — unfortunately, the data, text, and call limits are low.

Bottom Line:  Think about how much you need to use your phone when traveling and pick a plan based on that info. Note that you may be better off buying a local SIM card if you need to use your phone extensively for multiple days — this will save you money in the long-run.

Person Using Cell Phone By Eiffel Tower

Thankfully, enrolling in both the TravelPass and Monthly Travel Plan is simple.

You can enroll in TravelPass by texting “Travel” to 4004 from the phone whose line you’d like to enroll in TravelPass. Then, a new TravelPass will be added every time you use your phone abroad. We recommend doing this before your trip to avoid possible pay as you go charges. Alternatively, you can enroll using this page on the Verizon website.

Further, you can enroll in a Monthly Data Plan by going here . After you log in, you’ll be prompted to choose between the 0.5 GB or 2 GB plan. You can cancel this plan at any time by navigating to the same web page.

Like many carriers, Verizon has international coverage in most parts of Europe, Asia, and South America. However, it’s always wise to check that the country you’re visiting is covered by your carrier before you depart — otherwise, you could have a hard time finding a ride out of the airport once you land.

Verizon posts its full list of supported countries on its website. The carrier boasts that it supports “185+ countries” and while this is less than T-Mobile’s “210+ countries,” we’re unable to find any notable exclusions on the Verizon website. Every tourist destination we could think of was listed on the Verizon website, so you likely won’t have any issue connecting during your travels.

However, this could cause pose problems for those who partake in adventure travel by visiting off-the-beaten-path locations.

Pros and Cons of Verizon’s International Data Plans

KLM Airplane At an Airport

There’s no doubting that Verizon isn’t the best plan for most travelers. For the most part, it offers a very limited set of expensive international plans, and none of its plans offer free international roaming like T-Mobile or Google Fi.

However, it’s still important that we run through the carrier’s international data pros and cons so that you can make an informed decision on if Verizon is right for your travel needs.

  • Free international roaming within North America on most plans
  • Monthly international plans include calling
  • TravelPass is automatically enabled once you enroll
  • Expensive monthly international plans with small data allowances
  • TravelPass can get expensive on long trips
  • Likewise, TravelPass pulls data from your domestic data, call, and text allowance
  • Less supported countries than T-Mobile, Google Fi, and others

Being frank, we recommend that people who travel often steer clear of Verizon.

Its international data plans are too expensive to be deemed practical, so if you have the choice, we recommend checking out T-Mobile or Google Fi instead. Both of these plans offer free international roaming and more supported countries, giving you a smaller bill and more places to bring your connection.

However, we do understand why one would pick Verizon when traveling within the U.S. The carrier has industry-leading coverage at home and has been shown to offer some of the best speeds. It’s unfortunate that these perks don’t carry over to the carrier’s international coverage.

But now we want to hear from you. Do you use Verizon when traveling abroad? Let us know your thoughts in the comments.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will my smartphone work abroad.

Most modern smartphones are properly equipped to work internationally. However, you should refer to your smartphone’s manual or call Verizon to check if your smartphone is properly configured.

Do any Verizon plans come with free international data roaming?

The Start, Play, Do, and all Unlimited plans come with complimentary international roaming within North America. However, none of Verizon’s international plans come with free data roaming outside of this region.

Where can I see the full list of Verizon's supported countries?

You can view a full list of supported countries on Verizon’s website .

Can I bring my phone if I switch to Verizon?

You may be able to bring your device to Verizon — use this tool on Verizon’s website to check if your phone, tablet, or smartwatch is compatible with the Verizon network.

Where can I find more info on buying a local SIM card?

You can use the Prepaid SIM Card Wiki to find more info on buying a local SIM card in most countries. Buying local SIM cards is often cheaper than roaming on U.S. carriers like Verizon.

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About Andrew Kunesh

Andrew was born and raised in the Chicago suburbs and now splits his time between Chicago and New York City.

He’s a lifelong traveler and took his first solo trip to San Francisco at the age of 16. Fast forward a few years, and Andrew now travels just over 100,000 miles a year, with over 25 countries, 10 business class products, and 2 airline statuses (United and Alaska) under his belt. Andrew formerly worked for The Points Guy and is now Senior Money Editor at CNN Underscored.

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Best international phone plans in 2024 — what travelers need to know

Heading overseas? Find out what your cellphone provider charges if you use your phone

travel with verizon

  • T-Mobile phone plans
  • Verizon phone plans
  • AT&T phone plans
  • Google Fi plans
  • Other options
  • Device compatibility and eSims
  • 5G coverage when traveling

Before your summer travels overseas, you should look into whether you've got one of the best international phone plans for staying connected during your upcoming adventures. In the U.S., all the major wireless carriers offer some kind of travel benefit with their best cell phone plans , but they also have supplementary packages for travelers to augment the data plan you already have in place. The trick is to make sure those options keep you covered around the globe.

1. T-Mobile : Best choice for travelers 2. Verizon : TravelPass options 3. AT&T : Best for travel in Latin and Central America 4. Google Fi : An underrated traveling companion 5. Other options : Other international phone plans to consider

The best international phone plans will let you make calls and browse the web when you're in another country (though there might be a fee on top of your normal monthly rate, depending on which carrier you use). Different plans might cover different countries, and how long you plan on traveling could also impact your choice of plans. Your method of travel — be it by plane or cruise ship — also affects which plan is best for you.

All of these are things for globetrotters to consider when shopping for wireless coverage. You're going to want one of the best unlimited data plans since they tend to offer the most travel-related perks. If you haven't travelled internationally in a while, it's smart to double-check what options are out there since the best phone carriers have overhauled their plans and packages available to travelers.

Here’s a look at the travel policies and perks for the three top U.S carriers along with information on Google Fi, which offers a plan that definitely appeals to frequent travelers.

T-Mobile international phone plans

best international phone plans: T-Mobile

T-Mobile offers an expanded array of plans, though most of its unlimited data plan options have some benefits for overseas travel. Subscribe to Magenta, Magenta Max, Go5G, Go5G Plus or Go5G Next, and you enjoy unlimited data and texting in more than 215 countries around the world. If you want to place or receive calls, you’ll be subject to the local rate depending on where you want to go. You don’t need to notify T-Mobile of your travel for your overseas benefits to kick in.

T-Mobile Go5G Plus Plan | Unlimited Data | $90/month

T-Mobile Go5G Plus Plan | Unlimited Data | $90/month T-Mobile's Go5G Plus plan has the edge over Magenta Max for world travelers, even if the latter plan is $5 cheaper for a single line. That's because Go5G Plus customers get more data when traveling in Mexico and Canada (15GB vs. 10GB for Magenta Max) and 10GB more hotspot data. Otherwise, the two plans are identical: You can use your data in 215-plus countries at no extra cost. The first 5GB of data you use use will be high-speed data (with 5G speeds supported where available). The cheaper Go5G and Magenta plans ($75/month and $70/month, respectively) also feature travel benefits, including high-speed data in 11 European countries. Otherwise, data speeds are capped at 256 kbps.

Travel perks in current plans: As part of T-Mobile's Beyond Connected program, data speeds now reach 256 kbps when you're overseas. If you subscribe to either the standard Magenta or Go5G plans and you're in one of 11 European countries, you can enjoy 5GB of high-speed data every month, thanks to a partnership with T-Mobile parent Deutsche Telecom.

The perk gets better when you upgrade to either Magenta Max or Go5G Plus, both of which cost $15 more a month than their respective base plans. In that case, you can benefit from 5GB of high-speed data in 215 countries.

Go5G Next, T-Mobile's most expensive plan at $100/month for a single line, has the same travel benefits as Go5G Plus, but adds the ability to upgrade your phone every year. If that's not important to you, stick with Go5G Plus and pay $10 less each month on your wireless bill.

T-Mobile customers can take advantage of free Wi-Fi on American, Delta, Alaska Airlines and United flights. Magenta Max and Go5G Plus subscribers get full texting and Wi-Fi with streaming during flights, where wireless is available. If you go with the standard Magenta or Go5G option, you're covered on four flights per year with full streaming, plus unlimited texting; after those four flights, you can stream one hour of video. Delta SkyMiles members also get free Wi-Fi on domestic U.S. flights courtesy of T-Mobile — even if they get their wireless service from another carrier.

In Mexico and Canada, T-Mobile allows you to use up to 5GB of data whether you've got Magenta or Magenta Max; speeds are slowed to 2G after that. Go5G customers get 10GB of data in those two countries, while Go5G Plus members enjoy 15GB.

T-Mobile includes travel benefits in two of its remaining senior plans, with identical travel perks between the $100 Go5G Plus 55 option and the $120 Go5G Next 55 plan. (Note that those monthly prices cover two lines of data; one line of either Plus or Next cost $70 and $80, respectively.) Travel perks include high-speed data and text when you travel abroad, plus unlimited in-flight connectivity. When you travel to Canada or Mexico, you get 15GB of high-speed data. Both plans also include a year's membership to AAA for road travel in the U.S.

If you opt for T-Mobile's lower cost Essentials unlimited plan, you'll get 2G roaming in Canada and Mexico, but have to pay for data elsewhere.

Trip-specific passes: T-Mobile offers International Pass options for travelers who want high-speed data during lengthier stays overseas. A 5GB International Pass gives you that much high-speed data along with unlimited calling for 10 days. It costs $35. T-Mobile's $50 International Pass increases high-speed data to 15GB and extends the length of the pass to 30 days. The carrier also offers a $5 daily pass that gives you 512MB of high-speed data, and unlimited calling between the 215 or so Simple Global destinations. 

Cruise rates: Pricing on cruises will vary according to which cruise you’re taking. You can check T-Mobile’s site to see what your pricing will be.

Verizon international phone plans

best international phone plan: Verizon

Verizon phones generally work all over the world, especially if you've got a phone built in the last few years. But where you travel significantly influences how much you’ll have to pay. As for which is the best Verizon phone plan for travelers, that all depends on how frequently you go overseas. There's a clear choice for regular globetrotters, but Verizon's less expensive offerings allow you to tack on travel benefits, too.

Verizon Unlimited Ultimate | Unlimited Data | $90/month

Verizon Unlimited Ultimate | Unlimited Data | $90/month Verizon's Unlimited Ultimate plan offers the most benefits for world travelers. Verizon promises "full international connectivity," meaning you'll be able to use talk and text for free when overseas; you also get 10GB of high-speed data every month that you can use in other countries. Unlimited Ultimate is Verizon's most expensive plan, so unless you take frequent trips, you may be better served by Unlimited Plus ($80/month for one line) or Unlimited Welcome ($65/month). Those two plans can add on a $10/month Travel Pass options that provides three days of talk, text and data when you're overseas. You can drop the Travel Pass add-on from your plan in months were you don't need it. Verizon lets family plans mix and match lines so one person can get Unlimited Ultimate, while the others subscribe to the cheaper options.

Travel perks in current plans: Of Verizon's three unlimited plans, the best for frequent travelers is the Unlimited Ultimate option, which lets you use talk and text in other countries just like you would in the U.S. You also get 10GB of high-speed data to use overseas every month.

Unfortunately, Unlimited Ultimate is Verizon's most expensive plan, costing $90 a month for one line. (And that's after a discount for enrolling autopay.) There are cheaper options — Unlimited Welcome and Unlimited Plus — that include travel perks. Both plans let you text internationally to 200-plus countries. You can also use LTE data when traveling in Mexico and Canada. You're limited to 0.5GB of data consumption per day in those two countries before your speeds are slowed to 2G, and you can't use more than half of your talk, text and data in those countries over a 60-day period.

In addition to the base Welcome Unlimited and Unlimited Plus packages, you can opt for $10 monthly add-ons for your Verizon plan — some covering streaming services, another providing hotspot data and so on. The relevant package is Verizon's $10/month 3 TravelPass Days add-on, which saves you $20 a month on travel benefits as you pick up three passes during monthly billing cycles. You can accrue up to 36 passes for using talk, text and data when traveling overseas.

Unlimited Welcome starts at $65/month for one line, while Unlimited Plus is $80. If you have a family plan, you can mix and match so that different lines of data subscribe to different plans — helpful if there's one person in the family who travels a lot and would benefit from the Unlimited Ultimate perks.

Trip-specific passes: Let's talk a little bit more about the TravelPass . It's Verizon's daily option for international coverage, and it’ll cost you $5 per day per device for each day you’re out of the country if you travel to Mexico or Canada and don't have an unlimited plan. In 185 other countries — including China, France and Germany — Verizon charges $10 per device per day. TravelPass gets you 2GB of 5G data, and unlimited data at 3G speeds after that; the passes also come with unlimited talk and text.

If you know you’ll be traveling for a bit more time, consider Verizon’s monthly option, which the carrier recommends for trips lasting at least 10 days. International Monthly Plans at Verizon cost $100/month, but in exchange, you get 250 minutes of talk, unlimited texts and 20GB of high-speed data. (Use that, and you get unlimited data at 3G speeds.)

Verizon also offers pay-as-you-go pricing for international travel. You’ll pay 99 cents per minute in Canada and Mexico, Guam and the Northern Marianas Islands. Rates go up to $1.79 in 130-plus countries and $2.99 in 80 other places. Each text message you send will cost you 50 cents, and each received text will set you back 5 cents. Your data will be charged at a rate of $2.05 per megabyte no matter where you are.

Cruise rates: Pay-as-you go rates on cruise ships cost $1.99 for each minute of talk and 50 cents for every sent text message. You’ll pay 5 cents per message received. Verizon has a data plan for cruise passengers, too, with $30/day giving you 500MB of data plus unlimited texting and 50 minutes of talk time. For in-flight connectivity, you can opt for the same pay-as-you-go rates for cruise trips or you can pay $20 per day for unlimited data.

AT&T international phone plans

best international phone plans: AT&T

AT&T also comes with varied international pricing depending on where you want to go. Canada and Mexico travel is covered in many top AT&T plans, and if you pay up for the Unlimited Premium option, you can use your plan in many Central and South American countries. Traveling elsewhere? Then you had best look into AT&T's travel passes.

AT&T Unlimited Premium| Unlimited Data | $85.99/month

AT&T Unlimited Premium| Unlimited Data | $85.99/month It's AT&T's most expensive unlimited plan, but Unlimited Premium has the best perk for travelers — you can use your talk, text and data at no extra cost in 20 Latin American countries.  As with other AT&T unlimited options, you also enjoy talk, text and data coverage when traveling in Canada and Mexico.

Travel perks in current plans: If you’re heading to Mexico or Canada, AT&T already covers all of your voice, data and text with its four different unlimited plans — Starter, Extra, Premium and the entry-level Value Plus option. AT&T offers a lone tiered data plan with 4GB of data that you can use in Canada and Mexico (though roaming may be at 2G speeds). Both unlimited and tiered data plans feature unlimited texting to 120-plus countries.

The Unlimited Premium plan is the best option for travelers headed to the Americas, as you'll be able to enjoy unlimited text, talk and data at no additional cost in 20 Central and South American countries. 

If you do a lot of international calling from home, AT&T offers unlimited calling to 85-plus countries from the U.S. for $15 per month for each line. Calls to another 140-plus countries get discounted rates under this plan.

Trip-specific passes: For anyone off to Europe, the Caribbean, Latin America or the Asia Pacific region on a short jaunt, AT&T recommends its $10-a-day International Day Pass, which comes with unlimited talk and text and data governed by your plan. (Note that each device you take overseas will need its own Day Pass.) That service is available in 210-plus countries, and you can add extra phones for just $5 a day.

You'll never have to pay for more than 10 days of day passes on any one bill, even if your trip lasts longer. International Day Passes also kick in automatically when you use your phone abroad — you get a text message letting you know you're covered.

Cruise rates: On cruises , AT&T offers a $60/month Cruise Basic plan that covers 100 minutes of talk and unlimited texting while also offering 100MB of data. Need more of everything? Then try the Cruise Plus plan ($100/month), which includes 1GB of data on top of unlimited talk and text. 

Google Fi international phone plans

best international phone plan: Google Fi

If you do a lot of international traveling, don't ignore Google Fi Wireless , the wireless service set up by Google that uses cellular towers of T-Mobile and US Cellular to provide coverage. International travel is built into two of Google Fi's plans — the Unlimited Plus and Flexible options.

Image

Google Unlimited Plus| Unlimited Data | $65/month The Unlimited Plus plan is the way to go with Google Fi, as you can use your data at no extra cost when traveling overseas. Google Fi customers who pay by the gigabyte of data used are also eligible for this perk.

Travel perks in current plans: You've got two options with Google Fi — tiered data through the company's Flexible plan or a pair of unlimited data options. Flexible coverage costs $20 a month for talk and text plus $10 for each GB of data you use. (Data usage is rounded off to the nearest megabyte so you only pay for the data you consume.) Google stops charging you after you use 6GB a month, meaning you'll never pay more than $80. 

If you find unlimited data plans more appealing, Google has you covered there, too — it also offers a $65 Unlimited Plus option that rolls in unlimited talk, text and data. Unlimited Plus subscribers now get a year of YouTube Premium as a perk. 

The real benefit to either Unlimited Plus or Flexible is that those plans cover you when you're traveling in 200-plus countries. When you're overseas, Google Fi charges the same rate for data usage, whether you're on an unlimited data plan or paying by the gigabyte. Voice calls cost 20 cents (though calls placed over Wi-Fi are free) and you get unlimited SMS messaging. 

Alas, Google's $50/month Simply Unlimited plan is not eligible for the free data perk when traveling. That said, all three of Google Fi's plans let you use talk, text and data in Mexico and Canada.

Google Fi is even more appealing now that Google has opened up service to all phones, including iPhones. Note that phones optimized for Google Fi — Google's Pixel phones (currently the Pixel 8 , Pixel 8 Pro , Pixel Fold and Pixel 7a )  along with a selection of Samsung phones and Motorola budget devices — can switch seamlessly between cellular networks and Google's Wi-Fi hotspots, while other phones cannot.

Trip-specific passes: Unlike the other carriers here, Google Fi doesn't offer travel passes for extended trips. Your only option is to get coverage through the Flexible and Unlimited Plus plans.

Cruise rates: Google Fi is not available when you're at sea — only when you're on land in one of the 200-plus countries covered by the carrier.

Other international phone plan options

Discount carriers typically don't provide much in the way of benefits for travelers, but there are some exceptions. The most noteworthy alternative is Visible , which has expanded the travel perks for subscribers to its $45/month Visible Plus plan .

Visible is owned by Verizon and uses its parent company's network for coverage. The Visible Plus plan features unlimited data, including access to Verizon's high-speed 5G network. Travelers will be particularly interested in the unlimited talk, text and 2GB of daily data available through Visible Plus when traveling in Canada and Mexico. Visible Plus customers are also eligible for one free Global Pass day per month, in which they can use talk, text and data at no charge in 140 countries. Globla Passes normally cost $10.

Best international phone plan: Device compatibility and eSims

Traveling overseas used to mean checking to see if your phone would be compatible once you set foot in another country. But those days are drawing to a close now that 3G networks are shutting down, eliminating much of the distinction between phones that work on either GSM and CDMA. If you've got a recent smartphone that connects to LTE, chances are strong it's going to work just fine in other countries. (You still might want to confirm that your phone works on the LTE bands available in the country you're heading to prior to your trip, just to avoid any unpleasant surprises.)

Many phones now support electronic SIM cards or eSIM technology, where you no longer need to swap in a local SIM card to make your smartphone work with an overseas network. (Since the iPhone 14 , Apple devices sold in the U.S. only feature eSIM support — that includes the newer iPhone 15 models.) One of our editors took an international trip using an eSIM for her phone and found it easy to setup and use with a local network — in fact, she plans to use the eSIM approach on all future travel. 

That said, not every country supports eSIM. And depending on your phone carrier in the U.S., you might already have options that cover your phone use in other countries.

International phone plans: What about 5G?

As noted above, many of the plans that offer international travel either have you connect at whatever speed is available locally or at a reduced speed in cases where you're drawing from your own data plan. But what if you've got a 5G phone that can connect to faster networks overseas?

For the most part, we'd expect your phone to operate as before, either at whatever speed the local network offers or a capped speed if that's part of your carrier's travel plans. However, in a few instances, U.S. phone carriers have started making deals with overseas wireless providers that allow their customers to access 5G speeds when roaming. You should check with your carrier for information about the country you're going to travel in.

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Philip Michaels

Philip Michaels is a Managing Editor at Tom's Guide. He's been covering personal technology since 1999 and was in the building when Steve Jobs showed off the iPhone for the first time. He's been evaluating smartphones since that first iPhone debuted in 2007, and he's been following phone carriers and smartphone plans since 2015. He has strong opinions about Apple, the Oakland Athletics, old movies and proper butchery techniques. Follow him at @PhilipMichaels.

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Attention, Travelers: Now Is the Best Time to Switch to eSIM

The digital version of the SIM card, included on many newer phones, is set to become prevalent. It also offers affordable cellular data abroad.

travel with verizon

By Brian X. Chen

Brian X. Chen is The Times’s lead consumer technology writer and the author of Tech Fix , a column about the social implications of the tech we use.

As vacation season looms, now is as good a time as ever to bite the bullet and become familiar with a smartphone feature that many of us have ignored for years: the eSIM, the digital version of the SIM card that carries your phone number.

Among many benefits, eSIM technology is a boon for travelers, and pretty soon we will all be using it because the physical SIM card will be no more. Let me explain.

Last year, Apple eliminated the SIM card tray from the iPhone 14 to free up space. That means the SIM card, which acts as a key that connects your phone with cellular networks, is being phased out for Apple phones.

Where Apple leads, others typically follow, so you can expect handset makers like Samsung and Google to also go all-in on eSIM — a digitized SIM card embedded into the phone’s computer chip that you can activate with any cellular network’s service plan.

“Whether we like it or not, it’s coming,” Roger Entner, a telecom expert and founder of the research firm Recon Analytics, said about eSIM technology.

But this move isn’t really all about Apple. The Federal Communications Commission also favors eSIM technology , because it makes it easier for people to switch to a different carrier by using software instead of going to a store for a physical SIM card. And the technology has security benefits: If your phone is stolen, thieves can’t remove an eSIM to hijack your phone number and commit identity theft, as they could with a physical SIM card.

Most important, the experience of using eSIM data plans for travel has greatly improved. About five years ago, eSIM data plans for international roaming were overpriced, and cell service was sometimes unreliable. But in the last year, I’ve tested a few eSIM services when I left the country and found them to be cost-effective and zippy.

As is always the case with new technology, there are downsides. Activating a data plan on a foreign network with an eSIM is not as straightforward as sticking a different SIM card into your phone. The process is especially challenging for those who are less familiar with technology, putting the onus on more tech savvy companions to help them make the switch.

There are also privacy concerns. Many eSIM service providers offer apps that collect your data for tracking purposes.

You can use my experience as a template for navigating the inevitable transition to eSIM. Recently, I tried eSIM data plans when traveling with several members of my family and acted as their tech sherpa through the switch.

Step 1: Pick an eSIM

The main reason to use eSIM services for travel is to save money. The big U.S. carriers, like AT&T and Verizon, offer international roaming options, including $10 day passes for using your phone in foreign countries. The costs quickly add up for a two-week trip with family.

In contrast, an eSIM data package that can be used for the entirety of your trip costs a few dollars. The tricky part is choosing an eSIM service provider because there are many, and most are unfamiliar brands like Airalo, GigSky and Flexiroam. (Apple provides a list of eSIM service providers on its website.)

For a recent weeklong trip to Montreal, I researched travel blogs and picked Nomad , which offered a gigabyte of data that could be used for seven days in Canada for $7. I had the option to activate the plan with Nomad’s app or by following setup instructions on the company’s website. The app had high reviews in the App Store, so I clicked the download button.

Step 2: Activate the eSIM Service

A nice thing about eSIM is that you can buy a plan and set up the service on your phone well in advance of a trip, then activate it when you arrive at your destination. After you buy a plan, the eSIM service provider sends you a list of instructions.

The Nomad app showed a list of steps. In the iPhone’s settings app, I clicked on the cellular menu, clicked “Add eSIM” and typed in an activation code. As I crossed the border into Canada, I went back into the cellular settings, selected the Nomad phone line and toggled on the option for “Turn on this line.”

(If you still use a physical SIM card for your domestic phone line, you need not remove it. In the phone’s cellular settings, you just switch off the service for your primary line to avoid roaming charges.)

After I picked this eSIM plan, I shared the Nomad app with my wife and brother-in-law, who each followed the instructions to set it up by themselves. I didn’t know how to advise my mother-in-law, who never downloads apps, how to set up the plan, so I did it for her.

Herein lies the real problem: Less tech-inclined folks are probably not going to know how to use eSIM services. When my mother-in-law went on a trip to Hong Kong alone and I wasn’t nearby to set up the service for her, I told her to pay for AT&T’s international roaming plan and find a store later to buy a SIM card from a Hong Kong phone carrier.

Terry Guo, a chief product officer of LotusFlare, the company that developed Nomad, agreed that the main demographic of travelers using eSIM service plans comprised younger, more tech-savvy people.

“We are doing a lot of work in the app to make this simpler,” he said.

Optional (but Important) Step: Protect Your Privacy

Another downside to eSIM services is privacy-related. All the eSIM service providers I researched in Apple’s App Store said in their app descriptions that they did some tracking of users across different apps and websites.

Toni Toikka, the chief executive of Alekstra, a company that helps businesses reduce their wireless bills, underlined the importance of safeguarding personal information from eSIM providers. He said many of these companies, known as mobile virtual network operators, had struggled to generate profit.

“One way they think they’ll make money is selling your information,” Mr. Toikka said. “That’s why you should always opt out of any tracking. You shouldn’t sell yourself for pennies on a dollar.”

Mr. Guo said that the Nomad app contained Google’s analytics technology to see how people were using the app, and that people who logged into the app with their Facebook accounts could also be tracked by Facebook.

A simple workaround to data collection is to avoid logging into an app with third-party sites like Facebook and Google. Apple users can also click “Ask app not to track” when opening an eSIM app for the first time.

Android users don’t have the option to ask apps not to track them, so their best option is to buy the eSIM plan from the company’s website and set up the service without downloading the app.

Bottom Line

Overall, the pros of eSIM outweigh the cons. Traveling with a smartphone with SIM cards wasn’t relaxing because you needed to carry a pin to eject the card tray; plus you had to make sure not to lose the tiny SIM card.

When returning from a trip using eSIM services, all you have to do is go back into the phone’s settings app and switch your domestic phone line back on. That simplicity and peace of mind make eSIM worth the hassle.

Brian X. Chen is the lead consumer technology writer for The Times. He reviews products and writes Tech Fix , a column about the social implications of the tech we use. Before joining The Times in 2011, he reported on Apple and the wireless industry for Wired. More about Brian X. Chen

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How To Avoid International Roaming Charges On Verizon

Published: December 16, 2023

Modified: December 28, 2023

by Leia Hunt

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  • Travel Essentials & Accessories
  • Travel Tips

how-to-avoid-international-roaming-charges-on-verizon

Introduction

Traveling internationally can be an exciting and fulfilling experience, but it often comes with its fair share of challenges. One of the most dreaded aspects of international travel for many people is the hefty international roaming charges that can quickly accumulate on their phone bills. Luckily, if you’re a Verizon customer, there are several ways you can avoid these charges and stay connected without breaking the bank.

International roaming charges are fees imposed by your mobile service provider when you use your phone outside of your home country. These charges can include fees for making and receiving calls, sending and receiving texts and multimedia messages, and using data services like internet browsing or accessing apps. These charges can vary significantly depending on your destination and the specific plan or package you have with your carrier.

Verizon, one of the largest mobile service providers in the United States, offers various options for international roaming to its customers. Whether you’re a frequent traveler or just planning a short trip abroad, understanding these options can help you avoid excessive charges and stay connected while enjoying your time overseas.

In this article, we will explore the different international roaming options provided by Verizon and share some valuable tips to help you avoid international roaming charges. We’ll also discuss how to prepare your phone for international travel and suggest alternative communication methods that can save you money and keep you connected without incurring exorbitant fees.

Understanding International Roaming Charges

Before we delve into strategies to avoid international roaming charges, let’s first understand what these charges entail. When you travel outside of your home country, your mobile service provider partners with local networks in the destination country to provide you with cellular coverage. However, this convenience comes at a cost.

International roaming charges are fees imposed by your mobile service provider for using their services on the partnered networks abroad. These charges can be quite high and can quickly skyrocket if you’re not careful. The most common types of international roaming charges include:

  • Roaming call rates: This charge applies when you make or receive calls while roaming. These rates are typically higher than domestic call rates and can vary depending on the country you are visiting.
  • Roaming data charges: Using data services while roaming can lead to hefty charges. From browsing the internet to using apps that require an internet connection, every bit of data used can add up to your bill.
  • Roaming messaging charges: Similar to data charges, sending and receiving text messages and multimedia messages (MMS) while roaming can also result in additional fees.

It’s important to note that these charges can vary significantly depending on the country you’re visiting and the specific plan or package you have with your mobile service provider. Some countries might have higher roaming rates, while others may have more affordable options. It’s always crucial to check with your provider to understand the rates and options available for your destination.

Additionally, it’s worth noting that international roaming charges can be even higher if you’re traveling outside of the coverage area of your own mobile service provider. In such cases, your provider may have to rely on partner networks, which can result in higher charges.

Now that you have a better understanding of international roaming charges, let’s explore Verizon’s international roaming options and how you can avoid these charges while still enjoying seamless connectivity during your travels.

Verizon’s International Roaming Options

Verizon offers several international roaming options to its customers, allowing them to stay connected while traveling abroad. These options include:

  • TravelPass: Verizon’s TravelPass allows you to use your existing plan’s talk, text, and data allowances while abroad for a daily fee. With TravelPass, you can use your phone in over 185 countries without incurring additional roaming charges. You are only charged on the days you use your device, with a set fee for each 24-hour period. This option can be convenient for short trips and provides a predictable cost for international usage.
  • Monthly International Travel Plan: If you’re planning an extended stay abroad, Verizon offers monthly international travel plans. These plans provide a specific amount of talk, text, and data allowances for a fixed monthly fee. Monthly international travel plans often offer more cost-effective options for long-term travelers or frequent visitors to a particular country or region.
  • Pay-as-you-go rates: If you prefer more flexibility and don’t anticipate heavy usage during your international trip, you can simply rely on Verizon’s pay-as-you-go rates. These rates vary depending on the country you’re visiting and apply to voice calls, text messages, and data usage. It’s important to note that pay-as-you-go rates can be significantly higher than using travel passes or monthly international plans, so it’s advisable to monitor your usage carefully to avoid unexpected charges.
  • Global Data Plan: For frequent international travelers, Verizon offers a Global Data plan. This plan provides a set amount of data for use in over 130 countries and can be added to your existing plan for a monthly fee. The Global Data plan helps you stay connected without worrying about data overages or excessive charges while traveling.

It’s essential to check Verizon’s website or contact their customer service to determine the availability and suitability of these international roaming options for your specific needs and destination. Understanding these options will help you choose the most cost-effective solution to keep you connected while avoiding excessive roaming charges.

Now that you know the various international roaming options available from Verizon, let’s explore some essential tips to help you minimize or even avoid international roaming charges altogether.

Tips to Avoid International Roaming Charges on Verizon

While Verizon offers international roaming options to help you stay connected while abroad, there are additional steps you can take to avoid or minimize roaming charges. Here are some valuable tips to keep in mind:

  • Check your plan: Before traveling internationally, review your Verizon plan to understand what is covered and what additional charges may apply. Some plans may already include international roaming allowances or discounted rates for specific countries.
  • Enable airplane mode with Wi-Fi: When you don’t want to use cellular services, but still want to connect to the internet or make calls, enable airplane mode and connect to Wi-Fi networks. This allows you to use Wi-Fi for data services or utilize Wi-Fi calling and messaging apps without incurring roaming charges.
  • Use Wi-Fi calling: Verizon offers Wi-Fi calling, which allows you to make and receive calls and texts over a Wi-Fi network. This feature is especially useful in areas with weak cellular coverage or to avoid roaming charges altogether. Make sure to enable Wi-Fi calling in your device settings before traveling.
  • Use messaging apps: Instead of relying on traditional text messaging, use messaging apps like WhatsApp, Skype, or iMessage to communicate with friends and family. These apps use data instead of SMS, allowing you to stay in touch without incurring additional charges.
  • Manage data usage: Be mindful of your data usage while abroad. Disable automatic updates and background app refresh, and consider downloading offline maps and content before your trip. Utilize Wi-Fi networks whenever available and monitor your data usage to avoid exceeding your plan’s allowances or incurring high pay-as-you-go rates.
  • Consider a local SIM card: If you have an unlocked phone, purchasing a local SIM card in your destination country can be a cost-effective option. This allows you to have a local phone number and take advantage of local rates for calls, texts, and data. Research local carriers and SIM card options in advance to ensure compatibility with your device.
  • Research roaming agreements: Check if Verizon has roaming agreements with local carriers in your destination country. In some instances, Verizon may have favorable rates or partnerships that can reduce roaming charges. Familiarize yourself with the specific terms and conditions of these agreements before your trip.
  • Use offline modes for apps: Many apps have offline modes that allow you to use certain features without an internet connection. Save maps, articles, and other content offline before your trip so you can access them without using data while roaming.

Implementing these tips can help you avoid or significantly reduce international roaming charges while still enjoying the convenience of staying connected during your travels. By being proactive and making smart choices, you can make the most out of your international experience without breaking the bank.

Using Wi-Fi and Wi-Fi Calling

One of the most effective ways to avoid international roaming charges on Verizon is by utilizing Wi-Fi networks and enabling Wi-Fi calling on your device. Here’s how you can make the most of Wi-Fi connectivity:

Connect to Wi-Fi networks: Whenever possible, connect to Wi-Fi networks to access the internet and use data-enabled services without relying on cellular networks. Many hotels, cafes, and public spaces offer free or paid Wi-Fi access for their customers. Take advantage of these networks to browse the web, check emails, and use apps without incurring roaming charges.

Enable Wi-Fi calling: Verizon offers Wi-Fi calling on compatible devices, allowing you to make and receive calls and texts over a Wi-Fi network. This feature is especially useful when you have weak or no cellular signal or want to avoid incurring roaming charges. To enable Wi-Fi calling, go to your device’s settings and toggle on the Wi-Fi calling feature. You may need to enter your emergency 911 address to activate this feature.

With Wi-Fi calling enabled, you can use your Verizon number to make and receive calls and texts over Wi-Fi, just as if you were using a regular cellular network. This functionality is particularly handy when traveling to locations with limited connectivity or when you’re in buildings with poor cellular reception.

It’s important to note that both you and the person you are calling must have Wi-Fi calling capabilities enabled on their devices. Additionally, Wi-Fi calling uses your internet connection, so ensure that you have a stable and reliable Wi-Fi connection to avoid call quality issues.

By taking advantage of Wi-Fi networks and enabling Wi-Fi calling, you can stay connected without relying on cellular networks and avoid the costly roaming charges that can accumulate during international travel. Remember to configure these settings and test them out before your trip to ensure a seamless experience while abroad.

Using VoIP Services

VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) services can be a cost-effective and convenient way to stay connected while avoiding international roaming charges on Verizon. VoIP allows you to make voice and video calls over the internet, bypassing traditional phone networks. Here’s how you can utilize VoIP services:

Use VoIP apps: There are several popular VoIP apps available that allow you to make voice and video calls, send messages, and even share files over the internet. Apps like WhatsApp, Skype, FaceTime, and Google Hangouts offer free or low-cost calling options, making them ideal for international communication. Install these apps on your smartphone, tablet, or computer before your trip and ensure that your contacts also have the same apps for seamless communication.

Wi-Fi or data connection: To use VoIP services, you’ll need a stable internet connection. Connect to Wi-Fi networks whenever available to avoid using your cellular data, thereby saving on roaming charges. If Wi-Fi is not accessible, you can use your mobile data, but be cautious of any potential data charges that may apply according to your Verizon plan.

Call quality considerations: The quality of your VoIP calls may depend on the stability and speed of your internet connection. While Wi-Fi networks generally provide better call quality, using mobile data can work well if you have a strong signal. However, keep in mind that data-intensive services like video calling may consume a significant amount of data. Monitor your data usage to avoid exceeding your plan’s allowances or incurring additional charges.

International calling rates: It’s important to be aware that while many VoIP services offer free or low-cost calls, there may still be charges for calling international phone numbers outside of the app’s network. Before making international calls, check the rates offered by the VoIP service and compare them to Verizon’s international calling rates. In some cases, the VoIP service may offer more affordable options, especially for calls to countries not covered by your Verizon plan.

Using VoIP services can help you stay connected with friends, family, and colleagues while avoiding high international roaming charges. These apps provide a convenient and cost-effective way to communicate internationally, especially when combined with Wi-Fi connectivity. Remember to test and familiarize yourself with the VoIP app’s features and settings before your trip to ensure a smooth calling experience.

Getting a Local SIM Card

If you have an unlocked device, getting a local SIM card in your destination country can be an excellent way to avoid international roaming charges and enjoy affordable rates for calls, texts, and data. Here’s how you can go about getting a local SIM card:

Check device compatibility: Before considering a local SIM card, ensure that your device is unlocked and compatible with the local network technology in your destination country. Different countries use different network technologies, such as GSM or CDMA. Research the network types used in your destination country and confirm that your device supports them.

Research local carriers: Identify the local mobile carriers in your destination country. Look for reputable carriers with good coverage and reasonable rates. Check their websites or visit their stores to understand the available plans, packages, and services they offer to travelers.

Purchase a SIM card: Once you’ve chosen a carrier, visit one of their authorized stores or retailers to purchase a local SIM card. Make sure to bring your identification documents, as some countries may require their presentation for SIM card registration.

Activate the SIM card: Follow the instructions provided with the SIM card to activate it. This may involve inserting the SIM card into your device, contacting the carrier for activation, or using a specific activation code or app. Ensure that the SIM card is properly activated before using it.

Top up or purchase a plan: Depending on your needs, you can either top up your SIM card with credit or purchase a prepaid plan that offers a specific allowance of talk time, text messages, and data. Choose a plan that suits your requirements and budget. Some plans may offer add-ons for international calling or data roaming if needed.

Switch to the local SIM card: Once your local SIM card is activated and topped up, replace your current SIM card with the new one. Ensure that your device recognizes the new SIM card and allows you to make calls, send texts, and access data using the local carrier’s network.

By using a local SIM card, you can take advantage of local rates, avoid international roaming charges, and have a local phone number. It’s essential to plan ahead and research the available options to select a reliable carrier and a suitable plan for your needs. Make sure to inform your contacts of your temporary local number to stay connected while abroad.

Traveling to Countries with Roaming Agreements with Verizon

If you’re traveling to a country with a roaming agreement with Verizon, you may benefit from discounted rates or more affordable roaming options. Verizon has partnerships with various international carriers, allowing their customers to enjoy better roaming rates in these countries. Here’s what you need to know:

Check Verizon’s roaming agreements: Before your trip, visit Verizon’s website or contact their customer service to find out which countries have roaming agreements. This information will help you understand the available options and potential cost savings for your destination.

Understand the roaming options: Each roaming agreement may offer different options and rates. Some agreements may provide discounted rates for voice calls, texts, and data, while others may offer specific international travel packages. Review the details of the roaming agreement to determine whether it aligns with your usage requirements and budget.

Monitor usage and charges: Although roaming agreements can provide cost savings, it’s essential to be aware of your usage and any associated charges. Even with a roaming agreement in place, there may still be fees for certain services or usage beyond specified allowances. Keep track of your usage to avoid unforeseen charges on your bill.

Consider TravelPass: Even if you’re traveling to a country with a roaming agreement, Verizon’s TravelPass option may still be beneficial. TravelPass allows you to use your existing plan’s talk, text, and data allowances in over 185 countries for a daily fee. Compare the cost of using TravelPass with the rates offered through the roaming agreement to determine the most cost-effective option for your specific travel needs.

Be prepared for coverage variations: While roaming agreements provide improved rates, it’s important to note that coverage and network quality may vary in different countries. Research the coverage of the local carrier associated with the roaming agreement to understand potential limitations in certain areas or regions within the country.

Traveling to countries with roaming agreements with Verizon can provide you with more affordable options and potentially better access to cellular services. Always verify the details of the roaming agreement for your specific destination and factor in your usage patterns to make an informed decision about the most cost-effective way to stay connected while abroad.

Using Messaging Apps for Communication

When traveling internationally, using messaging apps can be an excellent alternative to traditional text messaging and a cost-effective way to stay connected without incurring international roaming charges. Here’s how you can make the most of messaging apps for communication:

Install messaging apps: Before your trip, ensure that you have popular messaging apps like WhatsApp, Telegram, Signal, or Facebook Messenger installed on your device. These apps allow you to send text messages, make voice and video calls, and share multimedia files over the internet.

Connect to Wi-Fi: To minimize data usage and avoid roaming charges, connect to Wi-Fi networks whenever possible. Wi-Fi networks are commonly available in hotels, restaurants, cafes, and public areas. By utilizing Wi-Fi, you can use messaging apps without consuming your cellular data.

Consider data usage: If you need to use messaging apps outside of Wi-Fi areas, be mindful of your data usage. Messaging apps generally consume less data than other data-intensive activities like browsing or streaming videos. However, it’s still advisable to monitor your usage and adjust your settings to reduce data consumption. For example, you can disable auto-downloads of media files or set the app to use less data for voice and video calls.

Group chats and voice notes: Take advantage of group chats to stay connected with multiple friends or family members simultaneously. Group chats can be an efficient way to plan activities or discuss travel arrangements. Additionally, many messaging apps allow you to send voice notes, which can be a convenient alternative to typing long messages while on the go.

Multi-platform compatibility: Ensure that the messaging app you choose is compatible with various platforms, such as smartphones, tablets, and computers. This compatibility allows you to switch seamlessly between devices and ensures that you can communicate with your contacts regardless of their preferred device.

Inform your contacts: Let your contacts know that you’ll be using a messaging app for communication during your travels. Share your username or contact details and encourage them to install the same app if they haven’t already. This way, you can stay connected and avoid international texting charges that may apply when communicating through traditional SMS.

Messaging apps provide a convenient and cost-effective way to stay connected with friends, family, and colleagues while traveling internationally. By utilizing Wi-Fi networks and being mindful of data usage, you can communicate seamlessly without incurring expensive roaming charges on your Verizon plan.

Preparing Your Phone for International Travel

When planning for international travel, it’s essential to prepare your phone to ensure seamless connectivity and avoid unexpected roaming charges. Here are some crucial steps to take before your departure:

Check device compatibility: Verify that your phone is compatible with the network technologies used in your destination country. Different countries may operate on GSM or CDMA networks. Check your device’s specifications or contact your mobile service provider to confirm compatibility.

Unlock your phone: If your phone is locked to a specific carrier, consider unlocking it to use local SIM cards from different countries. Unlocking allows you to switch to a local SIM card and take advantage of more affordable local rates for calls, texts, and data. Contact your carrier to inquire about the unlocking process.

Research destination’s mobile networks: Understand the mobile network landscape at your destination. Research the local mobile service providers, network coverage, and available plans. This information will help you make informed decisions about buying local SIM cards or utilizing your current plan while traveling.

Download maps and offline content: Take advantage of offline maps and content by downloading them before your trip. Many navigation and travel apps offer offline capabilities, allowing you to access maps, guidebooks, and other useful information without relying on an internet connection. This can be especially handy when you’re in areas with limited or costly data access.

Backup your data: Before departing, ensure that you have backed up all important data on your phone. This includes contacts, photos, and important documents. Backing up your data ensures that even if your phone is lost, stolen, or damaged during your travels, you can easily retrieve your information.

Optimize settings for data usage: Review and adjust your phone’s settings to minimize data usage while traveling. Disable automatic app updates, background app refresh, and other features that consume data. Consider using data-saving modes if available on your device to restrict data usage to essential apps only.

Update your apps: Update all the apps on your phone to their latest versions before your trip. App updates often include bug fixes, performance improvements, and enhanced security measures. Having up-to-date apps ensures smoother functionality and better protection during your travels.

Carry travel adapters and chargers: Don’t forget to pack the necessary travel adapters and chargers to ensure that you can power and charge your device abroad. Research the electrical outlets used at your destination and bring adapters accordingly.

By taking these steps to prepare your phone for international travel, you can avoid connectivity issues, reduce the risk of excessive roaming charges, and enjoy a hassle-free experience staying connected throughout your journey.

International travel no longer needs to come with the fear of hefty roaming charges on your Verizon phone. By understanding the options available and implementing some smart strategies, you can stay connected without breaking the bank.

Verizon offers international roaming options such as TravelPass and Monthly International Travel Plans, providing flexibility and predictable costs for your international communication needs. Additionally, utilizing Wi-Fi and Wi-Fi calling can help you stay connected while avoiding cellular networks and roaming charges.

VoIP services and messaging apps offer convenient alternatives to traditional calling and texting, allowing you to communicate over the internet and save on international rates. Installing these apps before your trip and connecting to Wi-Fi networks whenever possible can help you avoid data charges and stay in touch with loved ones.

If you have an unlocked device, getting a local SIM card in your destination country can be a cost-effective option. Research the local carriers and their plans to take advantage of affordable rates and avoid international roaming charges altogether.

Before embarking on your journey, ensure that your phone is prepared for international travel. Verify device compatibility, unlock your phone if necessary, and optimize settings to minimize data usage. Back up your data, update your apps, and pack the necessary chargers and adapters to ensure a smooth experience abroad.

By following these tips and being proactive in managing your phone usage, you can enjoy your international travels with peace of mind and avoid any unpleasant surprises when your phone bill arrives. Stay connected, explore new destinations, and make beautiful memories without worrying about excessive roaming charges on Verizon.

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Verizon Wireless

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Dual SIM and Verizon Travel Pass

I have an iPhone 13 Mini, purchased directly from Apple (thus unlocked) with my Verizon Wireless account on the eSIM. [Edited to add: the 13 is a dual-SIM, one eSIM and one regular SIM slot.]

I'm heading to the UK for two weeks with my parents, and planning to purchase an unlimited data-only nano-SIM. (Thinking about a Sims4Travel Vodafone SIM, because Vodafone seems to have the best coverage in the Lake District? Sims4Travel gets good marks for customer service, too.) My parents plan to purchase UK SIM cards with both data and voice for their iPhones, so I'm covered for local calling needs, except for emergencies.

I tend to be a heavy data user, and I want to be able to text photos and videos to my husband and daughter back in the US (we're all on Apple devices). But if I want to call and hear their voices, I don't mind using FaceTime, or wifi calling back at the hotel. So I figured the unlimited data SIM was the best deal—everything else had limitations or throttling or extra charges for certain things, and this has unlimited 4G/5G data.

But I'd like to be able to check in on my home Verizon account occasionally, to make sure I haven't missed any important texts or calls. Thinking about enabling the Verizon Travel Pass option before I leave, but leaving the eSIM "line" either disabled entirely or on Airplane Mode, enabling it once or twice during the trip just to check up on things. That would also give me a voice option for emergencies, where I wouldn't be fussed about the $10 charge to activate it that day.

But I'm so used to always having a phone line available whenever data is available, I'm having trouble envisioning how a data-only SIM would look with my normal usage. Email and apps, fine, should work the same on data-only. And basically, I can communicate as usual with other iPhone users back home, as long as I can connect to a cell tower, right? They'll roll right over to iMessage and pop up using my data, correct? I know texts or voice mails from, say, an Android user won't pop up until I enable the eSIM line and turn off Airplane Mode.

Ideally, I'd prefer to leave the eSIM enabled with Airplane Mode turned on until I'm ready to check in, but I'm still worried Verizon will find a way to ping me for daily Travel Pass usage anyway. I know just disabling data isn't enough, but I need someone to tell me for 100% certain Airplane Mode won't result in Verizon charging me somehow!

At any rate, has anyone done something like this successfully? Or see any holes in my plan?

We were in Spain and France this past May/June. My iphone stayed in airplane mode, as did my husband's Android OS phone; data disabled, both used on wifi only. I had a sim on an old phone for local use while in Europe. We both occasionally received text messages from unknown sources - spam from US numbers. I was shocked and fearful we'd be charged by Verizon. No charges ever for those texts. I thought nothing could come into my phone on airplane mode; evidently not.

I’m curious how this would work. It seems you’d have to swap out the physical SIM cards (one from Verizon, the other from Vodafone) each time you want to check your Verizon account. I wonder if some kind of activation would need to be done each time. And with my luck I’d lose the SIM card and be hosed.

I’m pretty sure you can make calls with Verizon without an international plan, it’s just more expensive. That might cover the “emergency” scenario. For texting, consider WhatsApp.

We DID have issues with Verizon charging for the $10 travel pass when we were in Spain. We would be in airplane mode, then get to an apartment and want to use their WiFi. As soon as we tried to connect to WiFi, the travel pass would activate. It seemed like as SOON as the phone was switched out of airplane mode and started searching for a connection, the travel pass activated. Very annoying and required a phone call to Verizon to fix.

Sorry, I wasn’t clear: the IPhone 13 is dual SIM, so you can have 2 accounts running in parallel. My regular wireless account is currently using the eSIM (no physical card), so the SIM slot is currently empty. That’s where I’d put the data-only UK SIM, and I’d manage the two accounts in Settings. No popping things in and out, because one is built-in.

But you can connect to WiFi while Airplane Mode is on. The only thing it should do is block cell signals, so in theory—according to Verizon—keeping it on AM when you connect to WiFi ought to be enough to avoid triggering the Travel Pass. I just don’t trust Verizon not to have a loophole they’re not telling me about.

JCR7, you might want to read this post (and this was my experience this year in Germany). Scroll down to Erin's post near the bottom. This was for an Airalo eSIM and they explain exactly how to set it up. If you follow the instructions, the Verizon cell should be turned off. If you want to use the travel pass, then just switch the settings.

https://community.ricksteves.com/travel-forum/italy/experience-with-esims

I'm interested in the same info. On past trips we used European SIMs on the first trips, then the $100 VZ Monthly Pass last year. Our trip was 25 days and the pass only provided 5GB data at throttled speeds. We had connectivity issues in one of our Airbnbs so unbeknownst to me, I burned through data. My daughter has tried the $10/day plan for shorter trips but was constantly being charged even though she was just using wifi. So I'm considering an eSim for our upcoming trip but like you, concerned VZ will find a way to charge me. One thing I'm considering is the fact that so many credit cards use two-factor authentication and I couldn't get that text if I was using an eSim. Thinking about temporarily adding my husband's phone number to those account notifications. Also, if I don't set up a plan, I believe incoming SMS are only 5 cents or something like that. So, I don't know how to ensure data is not running for that number, but occasional incoming texts could be allowed, without all kinds of data unknowingly running in the background. It seems like I had all the appropriate settings last year, but it still burned through data.

We spent five weeks in England and Wales this past May. My husband and I both have unlocked iPhones with dual sim, including one eSIM. I wanted the ability to make calls in the UK without relying on WiFi or WhatsApp and enough data that we could use google maps for navigation. We were moving around a lot in rural areas. First I went to Verizon and had them move our Verizon account to the eSIM slot to free up the physical SIM slot. Then I ordered SIM cards from giffgaff which they sent to the US at no charge. After the SIM cards arrived, I downloaded the giffgaff app and set up my account. You will get a UK phone number to use. For £15 I purchased 20GB data and had unlimited talk/text within the UK for 30 days. Even running google maps almost daily, I only used 7GB data. They have several plans available with more and less data. The key to not activating the Verizon travel pass was making sure the Verizon cellular plan was turned OFF and only the giffgaff plan was on when we were out and about. If we wanted to use the Verizon plan when WiFi was available, I turned on airplane mode with WiFi before turning the Verizon cell plan on. We used google voice and FaceTime messenger to make a few calls to the US over WiFi.

This topic has been automatically closed due to a period of inactivity.

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Man Stunned to Be Hit with $143,000 Phone Bill After Trip Abroad — How to Make Sure You Avoid the Same Fate

Travel expert Rani Cheema tells PEOPLE how to make sure your phone isn't roaming and more tips

A Florida man recently made headlines when he returned from a trip to Switzerland and was greeted by a phone bill for $143,000.

According to local outlet ABC Action News, Rene Remund had visited his local T-Mobile store ahead of the vacation to notify the service provider of his travel plans. He was reportedly told by an employee, “You’re covered.”

However, after freely sending photos and messages throughout his vacation he was charged for using 9.5 gigabytes (GB) of roaming data.

It was only after ABC Action News contacted T-Mobile’s corporate offices that the company offered to credit Remund’s account for the entire amount.

Accidentally incurring exorbitant charges during an excursion overseas isn't rare, unfortunately. But it is easy to avoid. PEOPLE talked to Rani Cheema, founder and travel business coach at Cheema's Travel, to find out what Remund did wrong and how to avoid the same fate

While she says it’s common for travelers not to realize their phone is using roaming data, it’s usually “not to that point” of racking up a six-figure tab. “It's usually first-time travelers or newbies who think they can use their phone everywhere at any time,” she says.

But it's not difficult to make sure you're covered before you leave — or even after you arrive.

Always Call Customer Service Instead of Going to a Store

Cheema says Remund’s first mistake was going in person to the T-Mobile store rather than calling its customer service line.

“Number one: never go to the store,” she says. “Never, ever, ever. Because they're there to sell phones . . . They're there to make commissions."

Customers often assume the sales associates are also experts on various coverage plans, but Cheema says that isn't always the case.

And if a customer receives inaccurate information, like Remund seemingly did, there's no way to prove it. At the store, "your conversation's not being recorded. So call the service provider, always," says Cheema.

When speaking with the customer service agent, confirm whether your plan covers international use — and if that includes phone calls, text messages and internet browsing. If it doesn't, you can consider upgrading your plan or purchasing a temporary package so that you can use your phone abroad as you would at home. Several of the big carriers offer a $10 per day flat rate option.

Check Your Phone's Status as Soon as You Land

Once you arrive in your international destination, she says to “look at all the notifications” on your phone right away.

“As soon as you turn your phone on, you'll see it says in the upper right-hand corner if it's roaming or looking for a connection,” she says. “And then your phone alerts you that, ‘Hey, you're in a new country. We recognize this. Here are our rules.’"

If you see that alert and don't have an international plan, simply turn off roaming in your phone’s settings or put your phone on airplane mode. When you connect to wifi, you'll be able to use your phone normally.

Michael Siluk/UCG/Universal Images Group via Getty

Don't Have an International Plan? Get a SIM Card

Cheema says if a traveler hasn't secured international coverage prior to the trip, they have the option to purchase a SIM card once they arrive, which allow your phone to connect to local networks without roaming fees.

“SIM cards are great,” she says. “You can get them at train stations or the airport. You can also use them to make local calls if you need to make dinner reservations," says Cheema.

To limit the amount of data you're using, try turning off "cellular data" for the apps you won't be using in your Settings.

Never miss a story — sign up for  PEOPLE's free daily newsletter  to stay up-to-date on the best of what PEOPLE has to offer, from juicy celebrity news to compelling human interest stories. 

Or Simply Stick to Using Wifi Only

Another option, Cheema advises,  is to “just connect to Wi-Fi everywhere you go" and keep your phone on airplane mode for the duration of your trip. You can enable wifi calling in your settings, so you can make phone calls, text and use the internet as you normally would.

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Maximizing Benefits: Your Guide to Verizon Financial Services

Before delving into the benefits of the Verizon Visa Card and exploring how it can enhance your financial experience, it’s essential to recognize the importance of understanding all terms and conditions associated with the services mentioned. While we aim to provide comprehensive information, we encourage readers to thoroughly review all relevant disclosures and disclaimers provided by Verizon for a complete understanding of their rights and obligations.

Table of Contents:

Introduction: Unlocking the Benefits of the Verizon Visa Card

How to apply for the verizon visa card, verizon financial services: earning verizon dollars, maximizing savings with auto pay, interest-free financing for tech enthusiasts, redeeming rewards: from bills to travel, faqs: answers to your burning questions.

In today’s fast-paced digital landscape, convenience and savings are paramount when it comes to managing finances. Enter the Verizon Visa Card—an innovative financial service tailored specifically for Verizon customers. More than just a credit card, the Verizon Visa Card offers a host of benefits designed to streamline transactions and reward users for their everyday purchases. With this card, users can experience the seamless integration of financial management within the Verizon ecosystem, making it a cornerstone of Verizon financial services.

At the heart of the Verizon Visa Card is the promise of convenience and efficiency. By integrating seamlessly with the Verizon ecosystem, this card empowers users to manage their finances with ease. From applying for the card online or through the My Verizon app to utilizing it for purchases in-store or online, the process is simple and intuitive.

But what sets the Verizon Visa Card apart are its unparalleled benefits. For new cardholders, the allure of a $150 cash back offer upon making a purchase within the first 90 days is undoubtedly enticing. This statement credit not only serves as a welcome bonus but also sets the stage for ongoing savings and rewards.

Moreover, the Verizon Visa Card rewards program opens up a world of possibilities for users. With percentages towards Verizon Dollars on categories like grocery store and gas purchases, dining, and even Verizon purchases, earning rewards has never been more lucrative. And with no annual fee, users can enjoy these benefits without worrying about additional costs.

For existing Verizon customers, the Verizon Visa Card offers even more opportunities to save. Through the Auto Pay program, users can enjoy up to $10 off each eligible account or phone line, further enhancing their monthly savings. Additionally, tech enthusiasts can take advantage of interest-free financing on accessory purchases, making it easier to stay connected with the latest gadgets and devices.

But perhaps the most appealing aspect of the Verizon Visa Card is its flexibility. Whether you’re looking to save on your Verizon bill, redeem rewards for travel expenses, or treat yourself to gift cards from your favorite brands, the possibilities are endless. With Verizon Dollars that come with no limits or expiration dates, the choice is yours.

Applying for the Verizon Visa Card is a straightforward process designed to bring convenience and accessibility to Verizon customers. As a key component of Verizon financial services, the Verizon Visa Card offers a seamless way to manage expenses and earn rewards. Whether you’re an Account Owner or Account Manager with up to 12 phone lines maximum on your wireless account, getting started with the Verizon Visa Card is quick and easy. By leveraging this financial service, users can unlock a world of benefits tailored to their Verizon experience.

In-Store and Phone Application:

For those who prefer a more hands-on approach, applying for the Verizon Visa Card is also possible in-store or over the phone with customer service. Simply visit a Verizon store or contact customer service to speak with a representative who can guide you through the application process. This option provides personalized assistance for applicants who may have questions or require additional support during the application journey

Verizon Business and Prepaid Accounts:

It’s important to note that while Verizon Wireless customers are eligible to apply for the Verizon Visa Card, Verizon Business accounts and Prepaid accounts are not eligible for this service. However, for eligible wireless customers, the Verizon Visa Card offers a wealth of benefits and opportunities to enhance their financial experience.

In the realm of Verizon financial services, earning rewards has never been more lucrative than with the Verizon Visa Card’s unique rewards program. Designed to add value to everyday transactions, the ability to earn Verizon Dollars opens up a world of savings and benefits for cardholders. Let’s delve deeper into this rewarding experience and explore how you can maximize your earnings with the Verizon Visa Card, a cornerstone of Verizon financial services.

Understanding Verizon Dollars:

Verizon Dollars are the currency of the Verizon Visa Card rewards program, offering users the opportunity to earn rewards on qualifying purchases. These dollars can be accumulated with each transaction and redeemed for a variety of rewards, including savings on Verizon bills, travel expenses, in-store purchases, and even gift cards from popular brands. With no limits or expiration dates on Verizon Dollars, the potential for savings is virtually limitless.

Percentages:

One of the most appealing aspects of earning Verizon Dollars is the percentages offered on various purchase categories. With the Verizon Visa Card, users can earn:

  • 4% on gas and grocery store purchases
  • 3% on dining purchases, including take-out and delivery
  • 2% on Verizon purchases
  • 1% on all other purchases where Visa credit cards are accepted

These generous percentages ensure that users are rewarded for their spending habits, whether it’s filling up the tank, grabbing groceries, dining out, or making Verizon-related purchases.

No Annual Fee, No Limits:

One of the key advantages of earning Verizon Dollars is the absence of an annual fee. Unlike some rewards programs that come with hidden costs, the Verizon Visa Card rewards users with Verizon Dollars without any additional financial burden. Additionally, there are no limits on the amount of Verizon Dollars that can be earned, allowing users to maximize their rewards potential with each purchase.

Activation and Redemption:

Earning Verizon Dollars is a seamless process that begins as soon as you activate your Verizon Visa Card. Simply use your card for qualifying purchases, and watch your Verizon Dollars accumulate with each transaction. Once you’ve accrued enough Verizon Dollars, you can easily redeem them for rewards of your choice, whether it’s applying them towards your Verizon bill, offsetting travel expenses, or indulging in a shopping spree with gift cards.

Maximizing savings is a top priority for many customers. One powerful way to achieve this goal is through the use of Auto Pay—a convenient and hassle-free payment option offered by Verizon. By enrolling in Auto Pay, users can enjoy significant discounts on their monthly Verizon bills, thereby reducing expenses and enhancing financial stability. Let’s delve deeper into how Auto Pay works and how it can help you save money with Verizon, a cornerstone of Verizon financial services.

It’s important to note that the Verizon Visa Card stands out as the sole card eligible for the Auto Pay discount. This exclusive benefit further emphasizes the value of the Verizon Visa Card as part of Verizon’s financial services offering. By leveraging Auto Pay with the Verizon Visa Card, users can unlock even greater savings and streamline their payment process like never before. Let’s delve deeper into how Auto Pay works and how it can help you save money with Verizon.

Understanding Auto Pay:

Auto Pay is a feature that allows Verizon customers to automatically pay their monthly bills using a designated payment method, such as a credit card or bank account. Instead of manually initiating payments each month, Auto Pay ensures that bills are paid on time and in full without the need for intervention. This not only saves time and effort but also eliminates the risk of missed payments and late fees.

Maximizing Discounts:

One of the key benefits of enrolling in Auto Pay is the opportunity to maximize discounts on your Verizon bills. With Auto Pay, eligible users can receive up to $10 off each eligible account or phone line, up to 12 lines maximum depending on the plan. These discounts can add up quickly, resulting in substantial savings over time.

Seamless Integration:

Enrolling in Auto Pay is a simple and straightforward process that can be done online or through the My Verizon app. Once enrolled, payments will be automatically deducted from your designated payment method on the scheduled payment date each month. This seamless integration ensures that your bills are paid on time without any additional effort on your part.

Maintaining Discounts:

Once enrolled in Auto Pay, it’s important to maintain the eligibility criteria to continue receiving discounts on your Verizon bills. This may include ensuring that your account remains in good standing and that your designated payment method is up to date. By adhering to these requirements, you can continue to enjoy the benefits of Auto Pay and maximize your savings with Verizon.

For tech enthusiasts, staying connected with the latest gadgets and devices is essential. However, the cost of upgrading to the newest technology can often be prohibitive. That’s where interest-free financing comes in—a valuable feature offered by Verizon financial services to help tech enthusiasts afford their favorite accessories without breaking the bank. Let’s explore how interest-free financing can make tech upgrades more accessible and affordable for Verizon customers.

Understanding Interest-Free Financing:

Interest-free financing allows users to make purchases totaling $100 or more on Verizon accessories and pay for them in 12 equal monthly installments, all without accruing any interest charges. This means that you can spread out the cost of your tech purchases over time, making them more manageable and affordable.

Application Process:

To take advantage of interest-free financing, simply apply for the Verizon Visa Card and use it to make qualifying accessory purchases totaling $100 or more. Once approved, you can enjoy the convenience of interest-free financing on your accessory purchases, both online and in-store.

No Interest Charges:

One of the most appealing aspects of interest-free financing is the absence of interest charges. Unlike traditional financing options that may come with high interest rates, interest-free financing allows you to pay for your purchases without incurring any additional costs. This means that you can enjoy your new tech accessories without worrying about paying extra for the privilege.

Equal Monthly Payments:

With interest-free financing, you’ll make 12 equal monthly payments on your qualifying accessory purchase balance until it’s paid in full. This predictable payment structure makes it easier to budget for your tech purchases and ensures that you’ll be able to afford the latest gadgets without straining your finances.

The rewards offered by the Verizon Visa Card extend far beyond traditional incentives. With the ability to earn Verizon Dollars on qualifying purchases, cardholders have the flexibility to redeem their rewards for a variety of purposes, from offsetting their Verizon bills to indulging in travel adventures. Let’s explore the myriad ways in which cardholders can redeem their rewards and unlock the full potential of the Verizon Visa Card.

Savings on Verizon Bills:

One of the most practical ways to redeem Verizon Dollars is by applying them towards your monthly Verizon bills. Whether it’s offsetting the cost of your wireless service, internet plan, or TV subscription, redeeming rewards for bill credits can lead to significant savings over time. With no limits or expiration dates on Verizon Dollars, cardholders can enjoy ongoing discounts on their monthly expenses, helping to stretch their budget further.

Travel Adventures:

For those with a case of wanderlust, redeeming Verizon Dollars for travel expenses opens up a world of possibilities. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or a dream vacation abroad, using your rewards to cover flights, hotels, rental cars, and other travel expenses can help make your travel dreams a reality. With Verizon Dollars that come with no limits or expiration dates, there’s no rush to use them, allowing you to save up for that epic adventure.

In-Store Purchases and Gift Cards:

In addition to bill credits and travel expenses, cardholders can also redeem their Verizon Dollars for in-store purchases at Verizon-operated stores. Whether you’re in need of a new phone, tablet, or accessory, using your rewards to offset the cost of your purchase can lead to substantial savings. Alternatively, you can choose to redeem your rewards for gift cards from your favorite brands, allowing you to treat yourself or others to something special.

Seamless Redemption Process:

The process of redeeming rewards with the Verizon Visa Card is simple and intuitive. Once you’ve accumulated enough Verizon Dollars, you can easily redeem them through your online account or the Verizon app. With just a few clicks, you can apply your rewards towards your Verizon bills, travel expenses, in-store purchases, or gift cards, giving you the freedom to choose how you want to use your rewards.

As users explore the realm of Verizon financial services and the benefits of the Verizon Visa Card, they often have questions about eligibility, application processes, earning and redeeming rewards, and additional features. To provide clarity and guidance, we’ve compiled a list of frequently asked questions and their answers to help users make informed decisions about their financial journey with Verizon, a leader in innovative financial services.

Q: Am I eligible to apply for the Verizon Visa Card? A: To be eligible for the Verizon Visa Card, you must be a Verizon Wireless customer who is the Account Owner or an Account Manager with up to 12 phone lines maximum on your wireless account. Verizon Business accounts and Prepaid accounts are not eligible for the Verizon Visa Card.

Q: How do I apply for the Verizon Visa Card? A: Verizon Wireless customers can apply for the Verizon Visa Card through various channels, including online, through the My Verizon app, at checkout on the Verizon website or app, over the phone with customer service, or in-store at a Verizon location or select Verizon Authorized Retailers.

Q: How do I earn Verizon Dollars with my Verizon Visa Card? A: When you use the Verizon Visa Card for purchases, you earn a percentage of the purchase in Verizon Dollars. The earning rates include 4% on gas and grocery store purchases, 3% on dining purchases, including take-out and delivery, 2% on Verizon purchases, and 1% on all other purchases where Visa credit cards are accepted.

Q: Can I add my Verizon Visa Card to digital wallets, like Apple Pay? A: Yes, once you receive and activate your Verizon Visa Card, you can add it to your mobile wallet, such as Apple Pay, Google Pay, or Samsung Pay, for added convenience and security.

Q: How do I redeem Verizon Dollars earned with my Verizon Visa Card? A: Redeeming Verizon Dollars is easy. Once you’ve accumulated enough rewards, you can redeem them through your online account or the Verizon app. Options for redemption include applying them towards your Verizon bills, travel expenses, in-store purchases at Verizon-operated stores, or gift cards from your favorite brands.

Q: What are the benefits of enrolling in Auto Pay with Verizon? A: Enrolling in Auto Pay with Verizon allows eligible users to receive discounts on their monthly bills. With Auto Pay, users can enjoy up to $10 off each eligible account or phone line, up to 12 lines maximum depending on the plan, helping to maximize savings and streamline the payment process.

Ready to unlock the full potential of your financial experience with Verizon? Don’t miss out on this exclusive opportunity! Visit any Victra store today to sign up for the Verizon Visa Card and receive a special $150 reimbursement from your in-store purchase price. Take control of your finances and enjoy the many benefits that come with being a Verizon Visa Cardholder.

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Account Opening Offer: Subject to credit approval. To apply, you must be a Verizon Wireless Account Owner or Account Manager on an account with up to 12 phone lines max (depending on plan). In order to qualify for this offer, you must (i) apply and be approved for a Verizon Visa Signature® Card account and (ii) make a purchase using your new account within the first 90 days of account opening. Only one statement credit offer per account. Account must remain open and in good standing at time statement credit is applied to the Account. Statement credit will post to account within 1-2 billing cycles after purchase is made. We reserve the right to discontinue or alter the terms of this offer at any time. Limited time offer. The Verizon Visa Signature® Card is issued by Synchrony Bank pursuant to a license from Visa USA Inc. REWARDS: Purchases subject to credit approval. Verizon Dollars will be forfeited for Rewards Program inactivity. See the Verizon Visa® Credit Card Rewards Program Terms & Conditions in application for details and restrictions. The Verizon Visa Signature® Card is issued by Synchrony Bank pursuant to a license from Visa USA Inc. NO ANNUAL FEE: For New Accounts: Variable Purchase APRs are 23.99%, 26.99% or 30.99% for the Verizon Visa Signature Credit Card. APRs are accurate as of 8/1/23 and will vary with the market based on Prime Rate (as defined in your credit card agreement). Minimum Interest Charge is $2. AVERAGE VALUE: Based on combined, annual average of $358.75 in savings of Verizon Visa Card holders who use their card to auto pay their monthly Verizon Wireless bill and $107.96 in Verizon Dollars earned. Data from March 2023 – February 2024. AUTO PAY: Enrollment in Verizon’s Auto Pay and paper-free billing is required for Verizon bill discount of up to $10/mo off each eligible account or phone line, up to 12 lines max (depending on plan). Visit http://verizon.com/support/auto-pay-faqs for more info. Verizon customers who are receiving Auto Pay discounts because they are currently enrolled in Auto Pay and paper-free billing via other qualifying methods will not receive additional discounts for re-enrolling using the card. Application required: Subject to credit approval. To apply, must be a Verizon Wireless Account Owner or Account Manager on an account with up to 12 phone lines max, depending on plan. Valid online, at Verizon-operated stores, inside sales, and customer service. 1 Accessory Finance Promotion: Accessory purchases totaling $100 or more must be on one receipt and charged on your Verizon Visa Card. Use of Verizon Dollars or discounts may result in the qualifying purchase amount not being satisfied. No interest will be charged, and equal monthly payments are required on promo purchase balance, including related debt cancellation fees, until it is paid in full. The payments equal the initial total promo purchase amount divided by the number of months in the promo period, rounded to the whole cent. During the last month(s) of the promo period the required monthly payment may be reduced due to the prior months rounding. The required monthly minimum payment applicable to your account might be higher due to the accessory promo than would be required if the accessory purchase was a non-promotional purchase. The accessory promo’s equal monthly payment will not be increased to the minimum amount otherwise due on your account but may be included in or will be added to your minimum payment for other balances on your account. If cart also includes other items, promo only applies to the accessories plus tax. On your credit card statement these transactions will be displayed separately: one for the Accessory Finance Promotion and one for the other items purchased, which are subject to regular credit card account terms. Regular account terms apply to non-promo purchases. Verizon reserves the right to discontinue or alter the terms of this offer at any time. For New Accounts: Variable Purchase APRs are 23.99%, 26.99% or 30.99% for the Verizon Visa Signature Credit Card. APRs are accurate as of 8/1/23 and will vary with the market based on Prime Rate (as defined in your credit card agreement). Minimum Interest Charge is $2. Existing Card Holders: See your credit card agreement terms. Subject to credit approval.

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An American came back from Europe with a $143,000 phone bill after failing to set up international roaming

  • A Florida man received a $143,000 phone bill from T-Mobile after an overseas trip to Switzerland.
  • The charges were due to his phone not being set for international roaming, according to ABC Action News.
  • After legal intervention and media coverage, T-Mobile agreed to credit the entire amount.

Insider Today

A Florida man returned from a trip to Switzerland with his wife last September to discover he was facing an unexpectedly massive phone bill, Tampa's ABC Action News reported.

Rene Remund said that after returning home he received his bill from T-Mobile. He initially thought he was being charged $143 for sending photos and texts to family and friends from the Alps, according to the local news outlet.

But the actual charge was much higher — around $143,000 for 9.5 gigabytes of data used overseas.

According to Forbes, the average annual salary in Florida is $55,980, making the bill more than twice what an average worker makes each year in the state.

Remund had incurred thousands of dollars in daily roaming charges because his phone was not set up for international roaming, the report said.

Most US customers' domestic plans do not cover usage abroad, according to the Federal Communications Commission.

Related stories

Remund said he contacted T-Mobile, which confirmed the bill was indeed what he owed, per ABC Action News.

Remund did not immediately respond to Business Insider's request for comment.

Remund enlisted an attorney, who wrote letters to T-Mobile's president hoping for a response, the local outlet reported. The attorney also contacted ABC Action News, which subsequently contacted T-Mobiles's corporate office.

In a statement provided to BI by email, a T-Mobile spokesperson confirmed that the carrier agreed to credit Remund's account for the entire month.

"This shouldn't have happened and we fully credited the customer," the spokesperson said. "We are taking steps to avoid it from happening again. "

In a statement to ABC Action News, T-Mobile advised customers who may be on older plans to check to see if international roaming and data are included.

Remund reportedly said he always notifies T-Mobile before leaving the US for vacations, and this time visited a T-Mobile store to tell them of his travels.

He also told the news outlet that it was a huge relief to no longer be on the hook for the six-figure bill.

The amount of data Remund used isn't considered excessive. According to telecommunication company Ericsson, the North American monthly average data usage per smartphone was an estimated 25.9 gigabytes in 2023.

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It’s the last day to claim a piece of the $100 million Verizon class-action settlement

(NEXSTAR) – Eligible Verizon customers — current and former — have just a couple hours left to claim a piece of the $100 million class action settlement fund .

Affected users to get up to $100 each if they file a valid claim by April 15.

The lawsuit alleges Verizon customers were hit with an administrative charge as part of a “deceptive scheme.” Verizon denies any wrongdoing, but has agreed to the payout.

All Verizon customers in the U.S. who “received postpaid wireless or data services from Verizon and who were charged and paid an Administrative Charge and/or an Administrative and Telco Recovery Charge between January 1, 2016 and November 8, 2023″ qualify for a portion of the $100 million fund.

“Postpaid” phone plans are the opposite of prepaid plans. With postpaid plans, you sign a contract with a phone provider, and then you’re billed monthly based on your usage.

Affected customers should have also gotten a notice alerting them of the settlement. If you received a notice, you can use the “notice ID” and confirmation code provided to file a claim online .

People who didn’t receive a settlement notice but believe they are eligible can also file online by entering their Verizon account number and last name.

How much each claimant gets ultimately depends on how many people file claims and how long each person was a Verizon customer. The minimum payment is expected to be around $15, and the maximum is $100 per person.

Once the settlement is approved and final, payments will be sent by check or electronic payment. When that happens is still up in the air . Large settlements can face objections and appeals that extend the process.

Verizon plans to keep charging the administrative fee in question, but has agreed to amend its customer agreement to better disclose it, according to the settlement.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KOIN.com.

It’s the last day to claim a piece of the $100 million Verizon class-action settlement

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The Webby Awards

Verizon, nasa and rare beauty on social media that works.

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23rd Annual Webby Awards

Entry deadline: december 20, 2020.

Our second edition of Vitals explores the fundamentals of social media today. In partnership with Verizon , The Webby Awards gathered New York’s creative community to hear from three leading digital strategists about the social media practices that should stay or go in 2024.

Our speakers presented how they’re thinking about social across three topics: Vital Today (a current practice they love), Vital Forever (an approach they find essential) and Vital Never (a practice they would cut). The event featured Tom Chirico , Senior Director, Head of Brand Engagement at Verizon, Stephanie L. Smith , Social Media Manager at NASA, and Ashley Murphy , Vice President, Consumer Marketing at Rare Beauty.

ICYMI —explore our takeaways from each of our three presenters and get inspired by the social disciplines they turn to.

“ Social media is a conversation, it’s not a broadcast medium.”

Tom Chirico, Senior Director, Head of Brand Engagement at Verizon

Tom Chirico leads brand engagement for Verizon, inclusive of social marketing and content development, creator and influencer strategy, and social editorial strategy. Previously he spent 8 years at Twitter (X) leading creative strategy as part of the platform’s in-house agency partnering with the world’s leading brands to build unique ideas and activations that pushed the creative potential of the platform.

1. Vital Today : The Co-Creator Economy

A move away from the old linear model, where brands traditionally would partner with talent to reach a spectrum of audiences, today’s co-creator model centers on the audience. It’s about intentionally developing partnerships with creators to thoughtfully connect with their audience. It’s vital to understand the audience as a brand. Get to know what makes every niche tick, and find your brand’s voice in it.

2. Vital Forever : ​​Celebrate Your Wins

There’s a ton of pressure online to keep innovating forward, but it’s vital to take pause and recognize your hard work. Fact is, social media is tough, and it’s not an exact science. With so many ideas pitched, only so many make it to the marketplace. So take time to celebrate your big campaigns and successes when they happen. Savor your moment, take stock of what worked and toast your team’s creativity.

3. Vital Never : Never Undervalue Your Instincts

If you’re in a social media position, it’s because you’ve showcased your instincts in this space were right. Instead of instantly getting caught up in all the trends, trust your social media intuition. The best data and strategy come from your instincts in action. Don’t just rely on the atmosphere on social or your data analytics—trust your gut. If you believe it’ll work, try it out.

Stephanie L. Smith, Social Media Manager at NASA

Explaining in plain English what’s new with America’s space program (and why it matters) is what Stephanie L. Smith does. She oversees NASA’s flagship social media team, which has conversations with the public and the media about all of the agency’s activities, from astronauts to X-ray telescopes and back again.  

1. Vital Today : Surprise and Delight

When you have an idea and your entire team is excited about it, there’s probably something there. Get creative about avenues you can take to reach different communities on social. Bring in talent that deeply resonates and dialogue with them to get their audience to tune in. Don’t be afraid to slide in comments and engage your brand in pop culture moments. Keep your audience’s head on a swivel—use references and inside jokes relevant to the platform and non-traditional for your brand.

2. Vital Forever : It’s a Conversation

Social media is a conversation, it’s not a broadcast medium. Listen closely to online communities, understand their opinions and create opportunities for them to ask questions. Find out what people are excited about online and engage. Create channels for interactive Q&As to connect meaningfully. 

3. Vital Never : Inaccessible Content

Design and create with accessibility in mind. Use alt text with clear image descriptions. Add captions in visual content. It doesn’t have to be perfect. Don’t let that stand in the way of the good. It’s critical to create with everyone in mind, considering accommodations that can be made for every kind of user.

Ashley Murphy, Vice President, Consumer Marketing at Rare Beauty

Ashley Murphy spearheads Rare Beauty’s global go-to-market strategy, overseeing integrated marketing, paid media, social initiatives, and community engagement, contributing to the brand’s rapid climb as one of the fastest-growing prestige beauty brands on Instagram and TikTok . Her dynamic and holistic approach to consumer marketing involves crafting brands that not only captivate visually but also leave a lasting imprint on the cultural landscape.

1. Vital Today : Create Space for Intuition

Create a path for your team to trust their gut. The social media team knows your community best, connecting with your audiences daily through comments and DMs. With the emotional connection your social team builds, they have insight that data can’t provide. In a rapidly shifting social media landscape, data is good at understanding the past but not predicting the future. Push them to value and act on their instincts—synergy between creativity, keeping up with the moments and data analytics. A culture of informed intuition.

2. Vital Forever : Being of Service to Your Community

On social media, brands ask a lot of their community, from liking the post to commenting and sharing. Flip the script; create social media strategies by thinking about how you can be of service to your community. Think about unique ways to show up for them and make them feel seen, heard, and valued. Foster a relationship with your audience and understand how you can provide value. Create meaningful content that reflects your audience and meets them halfway.  

3. Vital Ne ver : Tracking the Competition

Yes, it’s important to keep your finger on the pulse of innovation. But that doesn’t have to rob your team of your originality or creativity. Instead of contending with the competition, stay focused, tune out the noise and strategize your next move. Make sure your social team has a firm foundation on your brand’s missions, vision and values.

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  3. What Is Verizon TravelPass and How to Use It for Your International

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  5. Activating and Using a Verizon TravelPass: A Step-by-Step Guide

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  6. Activating TravelPass on Verizon: A Step-by-Step Guide

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COMMENTS

  1. International phone plans and travel services

    My Verizon website: On your International Plan page, go to Use our Trip Planner. My Verizon app: In your account, select Plans & Services. Choose a line. In Additional Services, scroll to International Plans and then add new plan. Text: Add TravelPass anytime, anywhere by texting Travel to 4004. Note: We offer data plans for select flights and ...

  2. International Travel FAQs

    Connect with us on Messenger. Visit Community. 24/7 automated phone system: call *611 from your mobile. Traveling to Mexico, Canada or overseas? Learn how to add a Verizon international plan, about roaming, making calls and the rates charged for data usage.

  3. What Is Verizon's TravelPass?

    The Verizon TravelPass is an international roaming feature that Verizon customers can use while traveling. With the TravelPass, you can use your phone the same as you do at home for $10 per day of usage while abroad. You'll have the same talk and text limits when using the TravelPass as you do in the U.S. on your phone plan.

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    Verizon Wireless is America's largest wireless provider ahead of T-Mobile and AT&T Mobility. Verizon says TravelPass is compatible with networks in more than 210 countries around the globe.

  5. How To Pick An International Plan For Your Phone

    TravelPass, Verizon's go-to international plan, is the perfect option for customers who want to use their cell phone without worrying about added costs. For a set fee of just $10 a day per line, you can access your domestic voice, text and data allowance while traveling in over 210 countries and destinations worldwide.

  6. Verizon International Phone Plans

    All Verizon customers are automatically enrolled in pay as you go international data, texting, and calling. If you don't enroll in another plan on this list and take your phone out of airplane mode when abroad, you'll automatically be charged at the following rates: Talk: $0.99-$2.99 per minute, depending on the country.

  7. Top Tips for Using Verizon TravelPass for International Cell Service

    With TravelPass you only get 0.5GB of high-speed data per 24 hours. When you have used that much data you will get a message from Verizon with an offer to purchase another 0.5GB for an additional $5 or your data will get throttled to 2G. You can purchase additional data multiple times a day. 185+ Countries around the World: $10 per 24 hours.

  8. Verizon International Travel Plans: Connectivity Without Borders

    This section addresses common inquiries regarding Verizon's international travel services, detailing costs, plan features, and activation protocols. What are the costs associated with Verizon Travel Pass? The Verizon TravelPass allows customers to use their talk, text, and data allowances in over 210 countries for a daily fee. This fee is ...

  9. Best International Phone Plans: What Travelers Need to Know

    Travel perks in current plans: Of Verizon's three unlimited plans, the best for frequent travelers is the Unlimited Ultimate option, which lets you use talk and text in other countries just like ...

  10. Is Verizon's TravelPass Worth It?

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    That chart will give you the current rates for any destination you might be visiting. Global messaging rates with Verizon for roaming cost $0.50 per text message sent and $0.05 per text message received. Additionally, you will be charged $0.25 for both incoming and outgoing multimedia messages (MMS).

  12. How to Set Up and Use an eSIM for International Travel

    Step 1: Pick an eSIM. The main reason to use eSIM services for travel is to save money. The big U.S. carriers, like AT&T and Verizon, offer international roaming options, including $10 day passes ...

  13. Best Verizon International Plans In 2024

    The Verizon Monthly International Travel Plan allows you to pay per month and comes in two tiers with their own limits on call, text, and data. However, with both tiers you will be able to receive unlimited text messages. The first tier is $70, which gets you 100 minutes, 100 text messages and 0.5 GB of data.

  14. How To Avoid International Roaming Charges On Verizon

    Use Wi-Fi calling: Verizon offers Wi-Fi calling, which allows you to make and receive calls and texts over a Wi-Fi network. This feature is especially useful in areas with weak cellular coverage or to avoid roaming charges altogether. Make sure to enable Wi-Fi calling in your device settings before traveling.

  15. International Travel Coverage Map

    International Travel Coverage Map. World Device. (with GSM) Prepaid Device. (with GSM) 5G Data, Voice / Messaging. 4G LTE Data, Voice / Messaging. 3G Data, Voice / Messaging. 2G Data, Voice / Messaging.

  16. Community Forums

    My guess is Verizon only has agreements with some mobile carriers overseas and not anything with landline providers, and if you are calling between countries, can also cause problems if one carrier isn't supported. Then there's the issue with some parts of the world being on older wireless technology than what's currently in the US.

  17. Another question about ESims vs International Travel Plans from Verizon

    Option 1: Pay Verizon $300 for an international plan, expensive but provides unlimited data and enough text and phone minutes to meet my need. It does throttle you down to 3G after using 20GB per month and or 2GB per day. I think that would probably be ok.

  18. Dual SIM and Verizon Travel Pass

    Dual SIM and Verizon Travel Pass. I have an iPhone 13 Mini, purchased directly from Apple (thus unlocked) with my Verizon Wireless account on the eSIM. [Edited to add: the 13 is a dual-SIM, one eSIM and one regular SIM slot.] I'm heading to the UK for two weeks with my parents, and planning to purchase an unlimited data-only nano-SIM.

  19. International travel with Apple Watch

    International travel with Apple Watch. BLOOBIRDIE. Enthusiast - Level 1. 10-05-2018 11:27 AM. I will be traveling to Germany with both my iPhone 7 and my Series 3 Apple Watch (which has a cellular plan). While I know that Travel Pass will charge me $10/day when I use my phone, will I incur another charge for my Apple Watch when texts or calls ...

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    Redeeming Rewards: From Bills to Travel. The rewards offered by the Verizon Visa Card extend far beyond traditional incentives. With the ability to earn Verizon Dollars on qualifying purchases, cardholders have the flexibility to redeem their rewards for a variety of purposes, from offsetting their Verizon bills to indulging in travel adventures.

  23. Florida Man Gets $143K Phone Bill After Not Setting up Roaming in Europe

    Rene Remund received a T-Mobile bill for $143,000 after traveling abroad without setting up roaming. The network ultimately agreed to let him off.

  24. It's the last day to claim a piece of the $100 million Verizon ...

    Affected users to get up to $100 each if they file a valid claim by April 15. The lawsuit alleges Verizon customers were hit with an administrative charge as part of a "deceptive scheme."

  25. Verizon provides accessible, affordable and reliable connectivity

    NEW YORK - Verizon is committed to providing households with access to high-quality connectivity and reliable home internet without data caps, and does not believe that income should be a barrier to accessing it.. Funding for the Affordable Connectivity Program, which has helped nearly 23 million households across the nation connect to the internet, is expected to end soon.

  26. Verizon, NASA and Rare Beauty on Social Media that Works

    Tom Chirico, Senior Director, Head of Brand Engagement at Verizon . Tom Chirico leads brand engagement for Verizon, inclusive of social marketing and content development, creator and influencer strategy, and social editorial strategy. Previously he spent 8 years at Twitter (X) leading creative strategy as part of the platform's in-house agency partnering with the world's leading brands to ...