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AT&T International Phone Plans – Countries, Coverage, Rates, and More

Andrew Kunesh

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Table of Contents

Breaking down at&t’s international data plans, at&t’s supported countries, pros and cons of at&t’s international data plans, final thoughts.

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At Upgraded Points, we’re a team of travelers . Some of us travel abroad multiple times per year, and some of us travel full-time. However, all of us have 1 thing in common: we need an international data plan to stay connected to our work when we’re globetrotting.

With this in mind, we’ve spent a lot of time looking at the best U.S. mobile data plans for international roaming . The right plan will let us stay connected to our work when traveling, breaking us free from the hold of constantly searching for free Wi-Fi.

In past articles, we’ve looked at T-Mobile and Google Fi’s assortment of international data plans. And while these were some of our favorites, it’s time for us to turn our focus to mobile giant AT&T’s international roaming options. And at first glance, you may be in for a bit of a disappointment.

AT&T doesn’t offer free international roaming outside of North America, and it’s international roaming options can get pricey quickly. So in this article, we’ll dive deep and take a look at all of AT&T’s different roaming options. We’ll start by looking at what options are available to you, and then end with a list of pros and cons.

Use the information presented in this article to see if AT&T is the right cell phone provider for you as an international traveler. And if you’re already an AT&T subscriber, you can use this information to avoid any billing surprises on your next trip abroad.

Let’s get started!

As discussed in the intro, there’s no free international roaming outside of North America included with any of AT&T’s post-paid cell phone plans.

Thankfully, though, there are 3 different ways you can use your AT&T mobile plan when you’re traveling abroad. One is paying per megabyte for data, and the other 2 options are roaming plans. We’ve outlined each and their respective pricing in the paragraphs below:

Pay Per Use International Data

The first option available to you is also the riskiest: paying per megabyte for international mobile data.

AT&T will let you use international mobile data at a rate of $2.05 per megabyte in most countries. Your exact usage is actually billed per kilobyte, so if you use 100.2 MB of data during your trip, you won’t be rounded up to 101 MB for billing purposes.

This is a very risky (and expensive) way to use international mobile data. For example, sending a 3 MB photo on WhatsApp would cost a whopping $6.15! Further, modern smartphones use a lot of data in the background — think automatic updates and fetching new email — so you could end up paying hundreds of dollars in extra charges just for keeping your cell phone turned on!

We highly recommend staying away from this option. It’s too risky to be deemed practical — especially when you consider how data-intensive even the most basic smartphone tasks are.

AT&T International Day Pass

Plan on using a lot of data during your trip? You may want to consider the International Day Plan .

This plan lets you continue using your AT&T plan abroad. If you have an unlimited plan at home, you can continue using this plan and your data allocation when traveling in 200+ countries. Plus, you also get unlimited texting, calling to the U.S., and calling to 100+ Day Pass countries.

This plan is charged at a rate of $10 per day on top of your existing AT&T plan. If you’d like to add multiple devices to this plan, you’ll be charged $5 each for additional devices. Thankfully, AT&T will only charge you for days you actually use, and there’s no minimum number of days you need to purchase. Plus, the maximum you’ll be charged is $100 per billing cycle. After the first 10 days charged at $10 each, you’ll be able to access the international plan free of charge for the remainder of the billing cycle.

These daily plans are charged per 24-hour period and don’t start until you’ve used data, sent or received a text, or made a call. So if your flight lands at 3:30 p.m. in London and you make a call at 4:00 p.m., your 24-hour period will expire at 4:00 pm the next day. This plan works in any of AT&T’s International Day Pass-supported countries, and you can use your plan in multiple countries without having to buy an additional pass.

Once you add International Day Pass to your AT&T account, you will be automatically charged you for a full day whenever you use your phone in a supported country. This means that you don’t need to enroll in the plan more than once — just set it and forget it.

Free International Roaming in Canada And Mexico

One quick thing to note: most AT&T post-paid plans include complimentary roaming in Canada and Mexico.

When roaming to these countries, you’ll simply use your voice, text, and data plan from home. According to AT&T’s website, your phone will work at full-speed when roaming in these countries (or until 22 GB on unlimited plans, then throttled speeds), so there’s no need to worry about being throttled just for traveling. You can even use mobile hotspot — something super helpful for those that want to work remotely when traveling within North America.

The following plans include North American roaming:

• Unlimited &More
• Unlimited &More premium
• Unlimited Choice
• Unlimited Choice Enhanced
• Unlimited Plus
• Unlimited Plus Enhanced

Further, a handful of plans include roaming in Mexico but not Canada:

• Mobile Share Advantage (10 GB or higher)
• Mobile Share Flex (10 GB or higher)
• Mobile Share Plus
• Mobile Share Value (15 GB or higher)

Other AT&T plans can add a special Roam North America plan to their account. The price of this plan is not published publicly, so you’ll have to call AT&T to receive a quote and have it added to your AT&T account.

Which AT&T Data Package is Right for You?

Now that you know what international plans AT&T offers, let’s help you pick which is best for you. Here’s a look at why you might pick 1 plan over another:

Stick with pay-per-megabyte roaming if you…

• Plan on keeping your phone in airplane mode or buying a local SIM card — it’s not worth risking a huge bill when you get home!

Sign up for the International Day Pass if you…

• Are on a short trip — $10 per day can add up quickly.
• Only plan on using data on certain days of your trip.
• Have a large U.S. data plan; remember, the data you use will be pulled from your standard data allowance.
• Need a plan to hold you over until you purchase a local SIM card.

How to Sign up for an International Data Package

Signing up for an AT&T international data plan is easy. You’ll be automatically enrolled in pay per megabyte — so the minute you land, you’ll start being charged for roaming.

On the other hand, an International Day Pass can be added from the myAT&T portal. Just head over to AT&T’s website , sign in, and head to this link.  You can remove an international plan from this page as well.

Hot Tip: You can call AT&T to have them disable the international data plan feature if you’d like. We actually recommend doing this so that you don’t end up with a massive bill for accidentally taking your phone out of airplane mode.

AT&T has a wide range of supported countries for its International Day Pass, but unfortunately, it’s not quite as extensive as T-Mobile or even Google Fi.

Some notable examples of countries not supported by International Day Pass include:

• French Polynesia
• Philippines
• United Arab Emirates
• A handful of others

You can view the entire list of supported countries for both plans on AT&T’s website . We recommend studying this list before you make a choice on what plan is right for you. After all, there’s nothing worse than landing in a new country and not having phone service to call an Uber!

Obviously, there are ups and downs to picking an AT&T international data plan over a competitor — unfortunately, though, we believe there are more downsides. To prove it, here’s a breakdown of the pros and cons of AT&T’s international data plans.

Don’t worry: we’ll bring these together in the Final Thoughts section, giving you a well-rounded look as to whether AT&T’s international data plans are right for you.

Pros of AT&T’s International Data Plans:

• 2 different options for international roaming, giving you flexibility in how you choose to roam
• Complimentary roaming in North America for most AT&T plans
• International Day Pass provides flexibility and peace of mind as it automatically re-enrolls when you use your phone abroad

Cons of AT&T’s International Data Plans:

• No complimentary international data like T-Mobile or Google Fi
• Limited roaming countries, especially on the International Day Pass plan
• Expensive pay-per-megabyte roaming
• International Day Pass can add up on long trips
• Not all plans include North American roaming

All in all, AT&T’s international data plans are not the best option for most travelers. For example, Google Fi’s Unlimited plan costs just $70 per month per line and includes unlimited high-speed international data. With AT&T, you’d pay a similar price for U.S. data and still have to buy an additional international plan.

Further, AT&T doesn’t have the global coverage that other carriers offer. And while AT&T does cover most of Asia and Europe, those traveling off the beaten path will eventually stumble upon a country where an AT&T plan won’t connect.

If you live in an area where AT&T is your only option for getting solid coverage, we recommend picking up one of AT&T’s two different international data plans when you do travel abroad. These will keep your international data bill manageable and ensure that you can stay connected no matter where you are in the world.

Long story short: we recommend strongly considering the competition before you settle on AT&T. You’ll likely find a better deal with more international coverage options.

Safe travels!

Frequently Asked Questions

Will my phone work when traveling abroad.

Thankfully, most modern smartphones are properly configured to work internationally. If you’re unsure, refer to your phone’s owner’s manual or call AT&T to check if your cell phone works outside of the U.S.

Can I call international numbers when in the U.S.?

Yes, you can call international numbers from the U.S. with your AT&T phone service. You can see international calling rates on AT&T’s website .

What is the best credit card for paying my AT&T bill?

There are a number of credit cards that offer bonus points and other benefits for paying your phone bill. To see these options, check out our full guide to the best credit cards for paying your cell phone bill.

What countries does AT&T support?

AT&T’s international data plans work in over 100 countries — but remember, certain countries are not supported. Check the full list of supported countries on AT&T’s website .

Can I bring my current smartphone if I switch to AT&T?

Yes, your phone may be eligible. Use this tool on AT&T’s website to see if your existing smartphone is AT&T-compatible.

Was this page helpful?

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.

Discover the exact steps we use to get into  1,400+ airport lounges worldwide, for free   (even if you’re flying economy!) .

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Cruising or traveling abroad this summer? Why these cellphone packages can be your best travel companion

Whether you're taking a Caribbean cruise , sightseeing in European cities or trekking through South America , staying connected on your mobile phone can be a game changer.

Some travelers value the ability to use their mobile phone overseas because it allows them to stay in touch with family 24/7.

Others find it crucial to have access to a GPS when lost in a medieval town's bewildering alleyways.

Then, there's the ease of checking in for a flight via an airline app, scheduling an early-morning ride to the airport on an app or simply asking your phone's virtual assistant, "What's a great restaurant or museum nearby?" The amount of information we need at our fingertips when traveling abroad is hard to overstate.

Roaming overseas used to be an expensive proposition. However, in recent years, major U.S. wireless carriers have made it easier than ever for customers to keep data streaming on personal devices without incurring exorbitant pay-per-use fees.

Among them, AT&T offers some of the best options for travelers on both land and sea with AT&T International Day Pass and AT&T Cruise packages .

Here are the details on each and how they can help you stay connected on your summer travels.

AT&T International Day Pass

For many travelers, the most seamless option for using your mobile phone while abroad is to connect your device to a local cellular network and use that connection to make calls, send texts, surf the internet and use apps, just as you would at home. AT&T International Day Pass lets you do just that.

Adding AT&T International Day Pass to your eligible wireless plan is simple. You can sign up before your leave, or it'll get added for you as soon as you arrive at your destination. It's also cost-effective and reliable, with no complicated setup or SIM swaps necessary.

While the feature is on your account, you can talk, send a text, or use data in any of the included countries; you will be charged $10 per day on the first line used and $5 for each additional line on the same account used the same calendar day.

The other aspect that makes this feature appealing versus the competition? It caps the number of days charged to your account at 10 per line, per monthly billing cycle. This means you'll only pay for, at most, 10 days per line per bill, regardless of how long your trip is. It doesn't matter which borders you cross — as long as you're in one of the carrier's 210-plus destinations.

The plan includes spots like England, Spain, Aruba, Cambodia and Botswana. While most popular destinations are included, a few far-flung locations, such as the Maldives and Antarctica, are not covered.

This gets even better for customers on eligible unlimited plans , which offer coverage (at no additional cost) when traveling to select destinations in North and South America. Be sure to check your plan details to see whether international coverage in these countries is included and to learn more.

When you get home, you don't need to worry about removing it — you won't be charged anything until you connect to the local network on your next international trip.

AT&T Cruise Plus and AT&T Cruise Basic packages

As veteran cruisers know, using your mobile phone on a cruise is not as easy as it is at home without racking up expensive roaming charges. Once you've sailed away from the nearest land-based cell tower, your phone will usually go into roaming mode and accrue those hyper-expensive satellite roaming charges.

It is possible to switch your phone into "airplane mode" and stay connected at sea via your ship's Wi-Fi. The big-name cruise lines are making strides to improve their onboard Wi-Fi offerings, but connectivity can still be finicky and slow depending on the ship and where it sails.

Adding international, cruise-specific coverage enables connectivity at sea and can help travelers avoid unnecessary charges, including sometimes-expensive shipboard Wi-Fi plans. AT&T Cruise packages work in tandem with AT&T International Day Pass to offer a streamlined way for travelers to stay connected, even if they are toggling between journeys on land and sea.

Customers traveling internationally on cruise ships can choose between two packages: AT&T Cruise Plus ($100) and AT&T Cruise Basic ($60). For each package, the charge allows up to 30 days of usage. Choosing a package depends on your personal travel habits — how many phone calls you expect to make and how much data you generally burn through while traveling abroad (requires a compatible device with domestic wireless service).

The Basic package, for smartphones only, includes 100 minutes of talk (with an overage of $1 per minute), unlimited texts and 100MB of data (with an overage of $10 per 100MB beyond that). The more extensive Plus package, for smartphones and tablets, allows unlimited talk and text as well as 1GB of data (with an overage charge of $10 per 100MB beyond that).

Before signing up for a cruise package, always make sure that your ship is one of the more than 175 cruise ships that the package covers. The big names like Celebrity Cruises, Holland America Line, Norwegian Cruise Line, Royal Caribbean and Disney Cruise Line are all on the list.

It's also important to note that cruise packages only work at sea, kicking in 9 to 11 nautical miles from shore. If part of your trip involves land travel either before or after your cruise, you'll need to add the AT&T International Day Pass for those days.

Things to keep in mind when choosing an international phone plan

Below are a few more tips for choosing an international phone plan and making the most of it while you travel abroad this summer and beyond.

Sign up in advance

On land, relying on Wi-Fi is possible if you don't intend to leave your hotel much. However, at some point, the likelihood is that you will incur costly pay-per-use roaming fees if you haven't signed up for a plan with your carrier in advance. Be sure to check out your options before crossing any borders.

Turn off updates

Since so much data roaming goes on in the background — many apps continue to gobble data even when you're not actively using them — you'll often incur fees that far exceed what a day plan would cost, even just using your phone sparingly for emergencies. Turn off any unnecessary updates ahead of travel.

Consider prepaid packages

Cruisers are not beholden to typical international roaming charges (which are excessive enough). Rather, they can get hit with extremely expensive satellite roaming charges. Surfing the internet, using social media, reading emails or even just checking the weather will all use data charged at a premium rate — this can make a prepaid package very appealing.

Don't expect flawless connection on cruises

Bandwidth and connection speed are problematic at sea. Depending on where your ship is and whether anything (like a mountain range) is blocking the connection to the satellite, you may still experience lag time on calls or slow connection speeds.

Bottom line

Whether it's a Galapagos cruise or a road trip through Europe, if you plan to travel this summer with your mobile phone — and don't want to pay excessive roaming charges — an international cellphone plan can save you time and stress.

With AT&T's international features, you can use your phone just like you do at home without worrying about connecting to public Wi-Fi or obsessing about whether your phone is switched to airplane mode.

If you have the AT&T app, each package is super easy to add and remove from your existing cellphone plan and provides peace of mind and reliability. The 10-day bill cap for the AT&T International Day Pass means no matter how long you travel, it's extremely cost-effective compared to pay-per-use rates.

UponArriving

AT&T International Day Pass Guide (Full List of Countries) [2020]

When traveling abroad, one of the biggest questions asked is what type of plan you can use with your phone. Sometimes you can get hit with outrageous fees unexpectedly if you don’t properly understand your international data plan so it is vital that you know the terms of your plan before you depart as part of your international trip checklist.  

In this article, I will tell you everything you need to know about the AT&T International Day Pass. I will also list off all of the AT&T International Day Pass countries.

Table of Contents

What is the AT&T International Day Pass?

The AT&T International Day Pass allows AT&T customers to pay $10 per 24 hours to receive the following benefits when they are traveling abroad:

• Access to your data plan
• Unlimited worldwide texts
• Unlimited phone calls to the US
• Unlimited calls to 100+ International Day Pass countries

It also allows you the convenience of using your own personal mobile device versus buying a device for your travels. It’s a pretty decent deal and you can find out about the details of each of these benefits below.

• Related: Chase Ink Business Preferred cell phone insurance.
• Related: Best Credit Cards with Cell Phone Insurance

How do I get the AT&T International Day Pass?

The pass is very simple to activate because the first time you use your data, make or receive a phone call, or send a text message in an IDP country, you’ll automatically be charged the AT&T International Day Pass $10 daily fee. This means that you do not have to manually opt-in.

Typically, soon after you touch down in an IDP country and take your phone off of airplane mode, you should receive a text confirming that you are eligible for the pass. If you do not receive a text confirming the pass and how it works, or if you just simply can’t get service, try turning your phone off and then back on. (This usually resolves within a few minutes after you arrive in a new country.)

One important thing to note is that many of your apps that run in the background of your phone need to access data. So in some cases your apps may trigger the pass without you even knowing it. If you want to avoid this, you should keep your phone on airplane mode. You can also turn off cellular data roaming.

There are some ways to use maps off line. One of my favorite apps is Maps.me but you can also use Google Maps off-line as well so if that is your primary concern you don’t have to necessarily use data.

After your initial 24 hour period is up, if you continue to use your data or make or receive phone calls or send text messages, you will reactivate a new 24 hour period that will trigger an additional $10 charge. (The daily fees are calculated and charged to your bill at the end of your billing cycle.) 

How do I cancel the AT&T International Day Pass?

You do not need to cancel the pass whenever you arrive back home. You can simply leave it on your device so that the next time you travel abroad it will be active. However, if you would like to cancel the plan you can do that by going online or by calling into the following AT&T phone number: 800.335.4685. Once removed, pay-per-use rates will apply, unless another international travel option is added to your device. 

What type of data can I use?

The type of data you will be allowed to use depends on your domestic plan. If your domestic plan includes Stream Saver, it will apply to your international package or feature.

If you go over your domestic plan data allowance then overage charges or a data speed reduction of up to 128Kbps will kick in. If you are hit with the lower speed data, you might not even be able to use some of your apps on your phone and browsing can be extremely slow. So when traveling, always try to use Wi-Fi for your downloads, streaming, etc. 

Unlimited texts

You can send unlimited texts to anywhere in the world as long as those texts are AT&T Short Messaging Service (SMS) and Multimedia Messaging Service (MMS).

Note that this unlimited amount of texts does not apply to other types of messaging services like WhatsApp or iMessages. (You would want to use those services when connected to Wi-Fi to avoid charges.)

Unlimited phone calls

The AT&T International Day Pass can provide you with unlimited phone calls for certain regions. As long as you are in an IDP country you can call the United States on an unlimited basis. You can also call to other IDP countries as well (again, the full list of these countries is below).

If you are not familiar with making international calls, remember that you will need to enter in the country code before you make the call. For example, the country code for the US is “1” so before you dial a US number you would need to input “+1.” You can find a full list of country codes here.

It’s worth noting that if your domestic plan does not allow unlimited phone calls, then overage fees will apply.

Calls from IDP countries to non-IDP countries will incur International Long Distance (ILD) charges. If you are not familiar with the long distance rates, you can find out more about those here.

You also need to be careful about Wi-Fi calling. In fact you should turn Wi-Fi Calling off in your device settings to avoid charges for calls dialed to International Day Pass countries.

It’s a little confusing but basically, with Wi-Fi Calling, you won’t be charged for your calls to the US but you will be charged for calls to all other countries including the country that you are in. In those instances your calls will be billed at the international long distance rate as if you were calling from within the US.

Mexico and Canada

Many domestic plans include usage in both Mexico and Canada. If you have one of these plans then you will not be charged a daily fee while traveling in Mexico or Canada.

Service restrictions

There are also some service restrictions that you should consider. This plan is not available for wireless home phone services, connected vehicles, or connected devices. In those instances, pay-per-use international rates will apply. Also, this plan is not to be used aboard cruise ships or airlines.

If you would like to use your phone on a cruise, then you should look into purchasing a cruise package. You can find out more about those here . Just keep in mind that if your cruise transports you to an IDP country, you will be able to use your International Day Pass while on land.

Additional fees and surcharges

When you use your day pass, you might get hit with additional fees and sub-charges depending on your location. For example, there are reports out there of people getting charged an additional $20 on top of their $70 bills when they used their day pass for seven days.

So instead of $10 a day, more likely you might be getting charged something like $12-$17 per day . So just be aware that some of those fees can add up to make your bill a little bit more expensive than you might initially think it would be.

What countries qualify for the AT&T International Day Pass?

Below is a full list of AT&T International Day Pass countries that qualify:

• Aland Islands
• Antigua & Barbuda
• Bosnia & Herzegovina
• British Virgin Islands
• Cayman Islands
• Christmas Island
• Czech Republic
• Dominican Republic
• Easter Island
• El Salvador
• French Guiana
• French West Indies
• Galapagos Islands
• Great Britain
• Isle of Man
• Korea (South Korea)
• Liechtenstein
• Macao (Macau)
• Netherlands Antilles
• Netherlands
• New Zealand
• Northern Ireland
• Palestinian Authority
• South Korea
• St. Barthelemy
• St. Eustatisus & Saba
• St. Kitts & Nevis
• St. Maarten (Dutch)
• St. Martin (French)
• St. Vincent & the Grenadines
• Switzerland
• Trinidad & Tobago
• Turks & Caicos
• United Kingdom
• Vatican City
• Virgin Islands (British Virgin Islands)

The AT&T International Day Pass is very simple to use. You simply start using your data or texting or calling when you arrive in a new country and you will be able to have access to all of your plan subject to a $10 fee that hits every 24 hours. You need to be mindful about your limitations so that you don’t get hit with extra fees or slow down data but overall this is a pretty simple plan to follow.

Daniel Gillaspia is the Founder of UponArriving.com and the credit card app, WalletFlo . He is a former attorney turned travel expert covering destinations along with TSA, airline, and hotel policies. Since 2014, his content has been featured in publications such as National Geographic, Smithsonian Magazine, and CNBC. Read my bio .

One comment

When using the IDP will my phone get local number if that country? Calling someone in this country, do I call him using the international code or just his local number? And last one, when they call me from the same country that I am visiting, will the need to call my USA number?

Comments are closed.

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Traveling Overseas? Get AT&T's International Plan

Avoid high international phone charges

• Ithaca College
• AT&T Passport International Plan
• AT&T International Day Pass
• Swap Your SIM Card
• The Costs Without AT&T Passport
• If You Forget to Sign up
• Travel Tips for iPhone Owners

International travel is lots of fun, but if you bring your iPhone on your trip and expect to use your regular voice and data plan, you'll get a huge, unpleasant surprise when you get home: a bill for hundreds or even thousands of dollars.

That's because most phone plans only cover use in the U.S. Using your iPhone overseas counts as international roaming, which can be extremely expensive. For example, if you stream a song or two while on international roaming — using just 10 MB of data — you could be charged US$20 or more! Add in email, texts, social media, sharing photos, and getting map directions, and you'll run up a big data charge.

But it doesn't have to be this way. If you're an AT&T customer, you can save yourself from catastrophically large bills by signing up for an AT&T international plan before you leave on your trip.

AT&T Passport International Plan 

The AT&T Passport plan can be added on to your current monthly plan for the length of your trip. This extra service gives you the ability to make calls and use data at prices while you're overseas at much cheaper rates than if you were using international roaming. These are the current plans offered by AT&T Passport:

These plans are available in over 200 countries . If you're going on a cruise, AT&T offers special cruise packages with specific calling and data packages meant just for cruise ships.

If you're going on a one-time trip, you can add AT&T Passport to your plan for 30 days. On the other hand, if you travel to other countries regularly, you may prefer to add it to your standard plan and pay for it every month. AT&T supports both options.

Other major phone companies offer international plans as well, including options from Sprint , T-Mobile, and Verizon .

AT&T International Day Pass

If you're only going to be overseas for a day or two, another good option to consider is AT&T's International Day Pass .

For just US$10 per day, you can use the normal voice and data plan you use at home in over 100 countries. So, with this option, whatever you'd normally pay for data, calls, and texts is what you pay in other countries, plus the $10/day fee. That's pretty simple.

You can enable the International Day Pass for any of your devices and it will automatically work when you're traveling within the supported countries.

While this is a good option for a day or two, if you're traveling internationally for more than that, this may not be the best option. Remember, the 1GB Passport plan mentioned earlier costs $60 and works for the whole month. So, if you're on a longer trip, that may be a better choice. But, if you only need an international plan for a couple of days, it would be a savings at just $20.

Another Option: Swap Your SIM Card

International plans aren't your only option when traveling. You can also swap the SIM card out of your phone and replace it with one from a local phone company in the country you're visiting. In that scenario, you can take advantage of local calling and data rates as if you weren't traveling at all.

If you've got an iPhone XS or XR , you've got another option. Both of those models support two SIMs being used in the phone at the same time. The second SIM, in this case, is a virtual SIM, meaning there's no hardware needed. Just signing up for a pay-as-you-go plan with a local phone company in the country you're visiting and you'll be able to use your iPhone like a local.

The Costs Without AT&T Passport

Thinking you don't want to spend the extra money and that you'll take your chances with international data roaming? Unless you plan to use no data and make no calls, we don't recommend it.

Here is what you'll pay without a plan like AT&T's Passport or International Day Pass. It's also the rate if your package expires or if you're traveling within countries that aren't in the "200 countries" list above.

For some perspective, let's say you regularly use 2GB of data per month while at home and expect to use the same amount when away. Without an international plan, you could spend upwards of $4,000+ just for data  ($2.05 x 2048 MB) before even accounting for calls or texts.

If You Forget to Sign up Before You Travel

By now you're probably convinced that you should get an international plan, but what if you forget to sign up before you travel? The first way you'll be reminded of this will likely come when your phone company texts you to let you know you've incurred a big data charge (maybe $50 or $100).

Immediately call them back and explain the situation. They should be able to add international data to your plan and backdate it so that you get the international plan features but only pay for the plan, not the new charges.

However, if you forget to call or they won't cooperate, and you come home to a phone bill of hundreds or thousands (or even tens of thousands) of dollars, you might be able to contest the huge data roaming charges. Learn how in How to Fight iPhone Data Roaming Charges .

International Travel Tips for iPhone Owners

There's a lot to know about traveling internationally with your iPhone. If you're planning to take your iPhone on your trip, learn how to avoid big iPhone data roaming bills and what to do if your iPhone gets stolen . Also, don't forget the correct  international charging adapter  when you travel. 

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How to Use an AT&T Mobile Phone Internationally

Last Updated: March 28, 2024 Fact Checked

wikiHow is a “wiki,” similar to Wikipedia, which means that many of our articles are co-written by multiple authors. To create this article, 16 people, some anonymous, worked to edit and improve it over time. There are 7 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. This article has been fact-checked, ensuring the accuracy of any cited facts and confirming the authority of its sources. This article has been viewed 296,099 times. Learn more...

The majority of mobile phones offered by AT&T have built-in frequencies and features that allow them to function efficiently when you travel overseas to other countries. To use your AT&T phone overseas, you will be required to activate a roaming feature on your phone account that allows you to connect to the mobile phone towers at your overseas destination. If you do not want to activate the roaming feature or pay the additional rates for phone calls, messaging, and data capabilities, you can contact AT&T to have your phone unlocked so you can use an international prepaid Subscriber Identity Module (SIM) card.

Activate AT&T's International Roaming Service

• Visit AT&T's "Travel Guide" website featured in the Sources section of this article to verify your mobile phone's functionality in other countries. If you do not have Internet access, call AT&T's International Customer Care department for assistance at 1-800-331-0500. [2] X Research source
• Select the continent and country you are traveling to and click on the "Continue" button.
• Select the manufacturer and model of your AT&T mobile phone and click on "Continue."
• Review your phone's ability for voice and data services in the country you are traveling to. Voice services include phone calls and text messaging; whereas data services include email and Internet connectivity.
• If your AT&T mobile phone will not work in the country you are traveling to, you may want to consider upgrading your phone model or renting a mobile phone when you arrive at your international destination.

• Click on the "Details" link under the "Rates and Coverage" column to view your rates for the country you are traveling to. Rates for voice calls will vary depending on the country; however, messages and data charges have fixed rates regardless where you travel to.
• Each outgoing text message will cost 50 cents (0.36 euros), whereas each outgoing picture and video message will cost 1 dollar and 30 cents (0.94 euros).
• Data services will cost 1.95 cents per kilobyte, i.e. $19.50 (~15 EUR) per megabyte; In Canada it costs 1.5 cents per kilobyte ($15.00 per megabyte).
• If you travel overseas frequently, you may want to consider signing up for an international rate plan or discount package that may provide you with lower roaming fees. Visit AT&T's International Roaming website featured in the Sources section of this article or call AT&T at 1-800-331-0500 to sign up for an international package.

• You may call AT&T's International Customer Service department at 1-800-331-0500, dial 611 directly from your mobile device, or visit an AT&T retail store.

• To make phone calls or send messages, you will be required to dial the "plus" symbol, followed by the country code, then the phone number you are calling. For example, if you are calling a United States phone number, dial the "plus" sign, enter the number "1" for the country code, then dial the 10-digit phone number you are calling.

Unlock your AT&T Mobile Phone

• AT&T can unlock your mobile phone if you meet specific eligibility requirements. You must have had active AT&T service for at least 60 days, your account must be current on payments, your phone model must be available from other service providers or companies, and an unlock code must be available from the manufacturer. [5] X Research source
• Apple iPhones cannot be unlocked; however they have the ability to function overseas using AT&T's international roaming feature.

• Prepaid SIM cards can usually be purchased from stores in airports, department stores, or from phone merchants. You may want to ask the vendor salesperson about the rates and applicable fees for your prepaid SIM card.

Community Q&A

• Call AT&T's International Customer Service line free of charge if you have questions about roaming while you travel. Dial the "plus" symbol on your phone, followed by the phone number 1-916-843-4685 to speak to an AT&T representative. [7] X Research source Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0
• After you call them you can actually give them your local number and the AT&T representative will call you back. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0

You Might Also Like

• ↑ https://www.att.com/international/
• ↑ https://www.att.com/Common/merger/files/pdf/international_calling/world-quick-ref-fs-en.pdf
• ↑ https://www.att.com/international/long-distance/
• ↑ https://www.att.com/support/article/wireless/KM1009432/
• ↑ https://www.att.com/deviceunlock/
• ↑ https://support.apple.com/en-us/109357
• ↑ https://about.att.com/content/dam/snrdocs/ATT%20International%20Roaming%20Fast%20Facts.pdf

About This Article

If you’re travelling internationally, you can still use your AT&T mobile phone with a little preparation. Visit AT&T’s travel guide website to see if their service will work in the country you’re travelling to. You can also check the roaming rates there. To activate international roaming on your account, you’ll need to call AT&T’s international customer service department. Alternatively, if you’ve had your SIM card for at least 90 days, you’re up to date on your payments, and your phone’s eligible, call customer service to have your phone unlocked. Then, buy a prepaid SIM card when you arrive at your destination. For more tips, including how to dial a U.S. number from overseas, read on! Did this summary help you? Yes No

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How To Activate International Roaming On AT&T

Published: December 16, 2023

Modified: December 28, 2023

by Daria Fonseca

• Travel Tips

Introduction

Traveling abroad can be an exhilarating experience, but staying connected while exploring new destinations is essential. Whether you’re a frequent traveler or embarking on a once-in-a-lifetime trip, activating international roaming on your AT&T device is a crucial step to ensure uninterrupted communication.

With international roaming, you can make calls, send text messages, and access data services while outside of the United States. This convenient feature allows you to stay connected with friends, family, and colleagues back home, as well as access important information on-the-go.

In this guide, we will walk you through the process of activating international roaming on your AT&T device. From checking your eligibility to understanding the associated fees, this comprehensive step-by-step guide will help you navigate through the necessary procedures, ensuring a seamless transition into the world of international connectivity.

Before diving into the activation process, it’s important to note that enabling international roaming may incur additional charges. Be sure to inquire about the specific rates and plans offered by AT&T, or consider alternative options such as purchasing local SIM cards or using WiFi hotspots to minimize costs.

Now, let’s get started on activating international roaming and unlocking the power of connectivity while traveling abroad.

Step 1: Check your eligibility for international roaming

Before you can activate international roaming on your AT&T device, it’s important to verify if your account is eligible for this service. Here are a few key factors to consider:

• Account in good standing: Ensure that your AT&T account is active and in good standing. Any outstanding balances or overdue payments could affect your eligibility for international roaming.
• Plan compatibility: Check if your current AT&T plan includes international roaming. Some plans may require an additional add-on or may not be eligible for roaming services. Review your plan details or contact AT&T customer service to confirm.
• Device compatibility: Certain devices may have restrictions or limitations when it comes to international roaming. Make sure your device supports international frequencies and is compatible with AT&T’s roaming partners abroad. You can find information on device compatibility on AT&T’s website or by contacting their customer support.

If your account meets these eligibility requirements, you can proceed to the next step of activating international roaming. However, if you encounter any issues in terms of account standing, plan compatibility, or device limitations, contact AT&T customer support for assistance. They will be able to guide you through any necessary steps to ensure your account is eligible for international roaming.

Keep in mind that certain restrictions may still apply depending on your destination. While AT&T’s international roaming coverage is extensive, there may be countries or specific areas where roaming services are not available. It’s important to research and familiarize yourself with your destination’s network availability and AT&T’s roaming partners in that region.

Now that you have confirmed your eligibility for international roaming, let’s move on to the next step: enabling international roaming on your AT&T account.

Step 2: Enable international roaming on your AT&T account

Now that you have confirmed your eligibility for international roaming, it’s time to enable this feature on your AT&T account. Follow these steps to activate international roaming:

• Contact AT&T customer service: The easiest way to enable international roaming is by contacting AT&T’s customer support. You can reach them by dialing 611 from your AT&T phone or by using the support number provided on their website.
• Request international roaming activation: Inform the customer service representative that you would like to activate international roaming on your account. They will guide you through the necessary steps and ensure that the service is enabled.
• Provide your travel details: Be prepared to provide information about your upcoming travel plans, including the countries you will be visiting and the duration of your stay. This will allow AT&T to better assist you and provide any additional information or recommendations specific to your destination.
• Confirm activation: After providing the necessary details, the customer service representative will confirm that international roaming has been successfully activated on your account. They may also provide you with additional guidelines or tips for using roaming services abroad.

It’s important to note that activating international roaming may take some time to become effective. It’s recommended to initiate the process at least a few days before your departure to ensure that the service is active when you arrive at your destination.

Additionally, AT&T may send you a confirmation message or email once international roaming is activated on your account. Be sure to keep this confirmation handy for future reference, along with any instructions or contact details provided by AT&T’s customer support.

With international roaming now enabled on your AT&T account, you’re one step closer to staying connected while traveling abroad. The next step is to ensure that your device is compatible with international roaming settings. Let’s explore that in the next step.

Step 3: Verify your device compatibility for international roaming

Before you can fully utilize international roaming on your AT&T device, it’s important to verify if your device is compatible with roaming settings and frequencies used in the countries you plan to visit. Follow these steps to ensure your device is ready for international roaming:

• Check your device’s compatibility: Visit AT&T’s website or contact their customer support to find information on your device’s compatibility with international roaming. They can provide you with details on supported frequencies and technologies used in different countries. Keep in mind that older devices may have limitations in terms of compatibility. If necessary, consider upgrading to a newer device that supports a wider range of roaming options.
• Unlock your device (if applicable): Some devices, especially those purchased through AT&T or other carriers, may be locked to specific networks. If your device is locked, you may need to request an unlock from AT&T before using international roaming. Check AT&T’s website or contact customer support to inquire about the device unlocking process.
• Backup your device: Before traveling, ensure that you have backed up all important data on your device. This includes contacts, photos, documents, and any other critical information. In the unlikely event of any issues during your international trip, having a backup will ensure that you don’t lose important data.
• Install necessary software updates: Check for any software updates available for your device. These updates may include important bug fixes, security patches, and roaming-specific settings. Installing the latest updates will ensure that your device is optimized for international roaming and provides a smooth user experience.

By following these steps, you can ensure that your device is compatible with international roaming and is ready to connect to local networks while traveling abroad. Remember to keep your device charged and have an appropriate power adapter or converter if needed for your destination.

Once you have confirmed your device’s compatibility, you can proceed to the next step of setting up your device for international roaming. We’ll discuss this in detail in the next section.

Step 4: Set up your device for international roaming

Now that you’ve checked the compatibility of your device for international roaming, it’s time to set it up for seamless connectivity while traveling abroad. Follow these steps to prepare your device for international roaming:

• Enable data roaming: On your device, navigate to the settings menu and find the “Mobile Networks” or “Cellular” option. Within this menu, enable the “Data Roaming” option. This will allow your device to connect to data networks while abroad. Keep in mind that data roaming can be expensive, so it’s advisable to monitor your usage or consider using Wi-Fi whenever possible.
• Configure APN settings: APN (Access Point Name) settings control how your device connects to the network. In some cases, you may need to adjust these settings to enable international roaming. Contact AT&T customer support or visit their website for instructions on configuring APN settings specific to your device and destination.
• Activate international calling and texting (if needed): If you plan to make international calls or send text messages while roaming, you may need to activate specific features on your device. Contact AT&T customer support or refer to their website for information on enabling international calling and texting options.
• Download useful travel apps: Before your trip, consider downloading travel apps that can enhance your experience while abroad. These may include language translation apps, currency converters, maps, and travel guides. Having these apps readily available on your device will make your journey more convenient and enjoyable.
• Test your settings: Once you have made the necessary changes to your device settings, it’s a good idea to test them before you travel internationally. Try making a call, sending a text, or accessing data to ensure that your device is functioning properly and connected to the local network.

Setting up your device for international roaming will ensure that you can stay connected and utilize your device’s functionalities throughout your travels. Remember to familiarize yourself with any additional features or settings specific to your device and destination, as well as any guidelines provided by AT&T.

Now that your device is ready for international roaming, it’s important to understand the fees and plans associated with using roaming services. We’ll explore this in detail in the next step.

Step 5: Understand international roaming fees and plans

When using international roaming, it’s important to be aware of the fees and plans associated with this service. Here are a few key points to consider:

• Roaming rates: Roaming rates vary depending on the country you’re visiting and the specific services you use. It’s crucial to familiarize yourself with the roaming rates charged by AT&T for voice calls, text messages, and data usage. These rates can add up quickly, so it’s important to monitor your usage or consider purchasing a roaming package or add-on plan to save costs.
• Roaming packages: AT&T offers various roaming packages designed to provide more affordable options for international travelers. These packages typically include a set amount of minutes, messages, and data that you can use while roaming at a discounted rate. Research and compare the available packages to find one that suits your needs and destination.
• Pay-as-you-go: If you prefer not to purchase a roaming package, you can opt for AT&T’s pay-as-you-go rates. With this option, you will be charged the standard roaming rates for each minute of voice call, text message, or megabyte of data that you use while abroad. Be cautious, as these rates can be considerably higher compared to package rates.
• Data usage: Data usage is often the most significant contributor to roaming charges. To minimize data consumption, connect to Wi-Fi networks whenever possible and disable automatic app updates and background data usage. You can also monitor your data usage through your device settings or AT&T’s mobile app to stay within your allocated limits.
• Alternate options: Depending on your travel duration and destination, it may be more cost-effective to use local SIM cards or rent portable Wi-Fi hotspots. These options can provide better rates and more flexibility in terms of data usage. Research and compare the available options before making a decision.

Understanding the fees and plans associated with international roaming will help you make informed decisions and avoid any unexpected charges. Before your trip, take the time to review AT&T’s website or contact their customer support to get detailed information about the roaming rates and plans available for your destination.

Now that you have a better understanding of the fees and plans, you are well-equipped to utilize international roaming on your AT&T device. Should you encounter any issues or have questions while roaming, don’t hesitate to reach out to AT&T’s customer support for assistance.

Lastly, let’s address common issues and troubleshoot any challenges you may face while using international roaming in the next step.

Step 6: Troubleshooting common issues with international roaming

While international roaming on your AT&T device is designed to provide seamless connectivity while traveling abroad, you may encounter some common issues. Here are a few troubleshooting tips to help you overcome these challenges:

• No network connection: If you’re experiencing difficulties connecting to a network while roaming, try toggling your device’s airplane mode on and off. This action can help your device search for available networks and establish a connection.
• Poor network signal: In some cases, you may have a weaker network signal while roaming. If you are struggling with a poor signal, try moving to an open area, away from obstructions, to improve network reception. Additionally, manually selecting a network from your device’s network settings may provide a stronger signal if multiple networks are available.
• Data connectivity issues: If you’re having trouble accessing data services while roaming, double-check that your device’s data roaming feature is enabled. You can also try resetting your device’s network settings, which can help fix any potential configuration issues.
• Incompatible device: If you discover that your device is not compatible with the network frequencies used in your destination country, consider renting a compatible phone or using a local SIM card. These alternatives will allow you to have reliable connectivity while abroad.
• Excessive roaming charges: To avoid excessive charges, monitor your usage regularly. Check your device’s data usage settings or AT&T’s mobile app to keep track of your data consumption. Consider utilizing Wi-Fi networks whenever possible and restrict background data usage on your device.
• Lost or stolen device: In the unfortunate event of a lost or stolen device while roaming, contact AT&T immediately to report the incident. They can assist in suspending your service and protecting your account from unauthorized usage. It’s always a good idea to keep a record of your device’s IMEI or serial number in case you need it for any such situations.

If you encounter any issues or need further assistance while using international roaming, reach out to AT&T’s customer support. They are available to address your concerns and provide guidance to ensure a smooth and enjoyable roaming experience.

By troubleshooting common issues and following the steps outlined in this guide, you can overcome challenges and make the most of international roaming on your AT&T device. Stay connected, explore new horizons, and enjoy your travels with the power of seamless connectivity.

With the completion of this guide, you are now well-equipped to activate international roaming on your AT&T device. Have a great trip and safe travels!

Congratulations! You’ve reached the end of our comprehensive guide on activating international roaming on your AT&T device. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can ensure a seamless and connected experience while traveling abroad. Let’s recap the key points:

First, it’s important to check your eligibility for international roaming. Make sure your AT&T account is in good standing, your plan includes roaming services, and your device is compatible with international frequencies.

Next, enable international roaming on your AT&T account by contacting customer service and providing your travel details. Confirm that international roaming is activated before your departure.

Verify your device’s compatibility for international roaming and unlock it if necessary. Back up your device, install software updates, and configure APN settings to ensure smooth connectivity while abroad.

Set up your device for international roaming by enabling data roaming and configuring international calling and texting options if needed. Download useful travel apps to enhance your experience during your trip.

Understand the international roaming fees and plans offered by AT&T. Consider purchasing a roaming package or using alternate options like local SIM cards or portable Wi-Fi hotspots to minimize costs.

If you encounter any issues, troubleshoot common problems such as network connection, signal strength, data connectivity, and excessive charges. Contact AT&T’s customer support for assistance with any concerns or challenges you may face.

By following these steps and being aware of the fees and plans associated with international roaming, you can stay connected with your loved ones and have access to important information while exploring new destinations.

Remember to monitor your usage, conserve data, and take advantage of Wi-Fi whenever possible to avoid excessive charges. And most importantly, enjoy your travels with the peace of mind of staying connected through international roaming.

We hope this guide has provided you with the necessary information to activate international roaming on your AT&T device. Safe travels and have a wonderful time exploring the world!

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5 Best International Cell Phone Plans

International cell phone plans include talk, text, and data perks to keep you connected while abroad. Most major carrier plans include some kind of travel perk or benefit that allows users to call and text. Another feature to consider is data limitations to avoid spotty Wi-Fi connections in your hotel or local café. Although you could get away with using a messaging app, it’s important to have a reliable line of communication built into your cell phone plan.

For frequent travelers, choosing an unlimited data plan may be worth the investment to ensure you’re never without service when traveling. There are also plans for short-term vacations or one-off trips that don’t require tons of features and unlimited data. It all depends on where you’re going, how long you’ll be there, and how you like to communicate. Let’s dive into our curated list of the best international cell phone plans that are affordable, and include roaming options and unlimited data.

Table of Contents

• Best International Cell Phone Plans
• Things To Consider When Buying
• How We Chose

Google Fi Unlimited Plus  »

Unlimited data, calls, and texts to Canada and Mexico

50 GB of high-speed data to use internationally

Data and text in over 200 destinations

Only compatible with Google, Samsung, and Motorola phones

Voice calls to a select 50 countries are free while other countries add a rate per-minute charge (varies by country)

Although Google may not have the longevity of other cell phone carriers on our list, it is quickly establishing itself as a leader in the mobile and wireless connectivity industry. Google Fi Unlimited Plus provides unlimited international data and hotspot usage, free texts to more than 200 destinations, and 100 GB of Google One cloud storage for only $65 per month for one line.

Google Fi also offers two other plans – Simply Unlimited and Flexible – for international travelers who may not need all the bells and whistles but still want a reliable and affordable cell phone plan. All plans include unlimited calls and texts, spam call blocking, plus connectivity for select smartwatches.

For customers without a Google, Samsung, or Motorola phone, you’ll need to look for another option as all Google plans are only compatible with these phones. Google Fi may not be the best choice if you have long-term plans abroad either. Google Fi Unlimited Plus is not intended for international use over 90 consecutive days. An extended usage beyond this timeframe will result in a suspension of your international data access.

Google Fi Unlimited Plus is the best all-around option for unlimited data, texts, and call services to multiple countries within and beyond Canada and Mexico. Additionally, there are no activation fees or early termination fees to worry about. Users can also reach out to customer support 24/7 through Google’s online Help Center or by calling the support phone line.

Mint Mobile Unlimited  »

Affordable plan starting at $30 per month

Three international data pass lengths

No annual contracts

No international perks are included in base plans, only with the purchase of a Minternational Pass

International roaming and services are charged on a per-day basis

Mint Mobile is an up-and-coming carrier that offers services on an as-needed basis – meaning you won’t pay for more than you need. With Mint Mobile’s Minternational Pass, travelers can choose from a one-day, three-day, or 10-day pass with varying data caps, talking minutes, and text messaging limits. These passes are fairly inexpensive individually, which can help save money on shorter trips abroad.

Even without a Minternational Pass, users can take advantage of free calling to Mexico and Canada, as well as free mobile hotspot privileges that include 10 GB on the Unlimited Plan for only $30 per month. Customers also benefit from bringing their current phone and phone numbers, making the transition that much easier and cost-efficient.

The obvious downside of Mint Mobile’s phone plans is that none of them include international perks or services. If you’re traveling outside of North or Central America, purchasing an additional Minternational Pass is a must, otherwise, you’re without service and coverage when abroad. For longer trips beyond 10 days, users will need to buy multiple passes which can quickly add up.

Mint Mobile, like most phone carriers, forgoes annual or multi-year contracts and doesn’t charge you activation or early termination fees. The benefit of choosing Mint Mobile is its affordable plan options plus flexibility in selecting add-on international coverage. Knowing exactly what is covered and for how many days can help you save rather than overspend on services you don’t need.

T-Mobile Go5G Plus  »

Unlimited data with 5G and 4G LTE speeds

Up to 5 GB of high-speed international data per plan period

In-flight Wi-Fi connections included

Higher monthly cost for base cell phone plan

International calls are charged $.25 per minute

As one of the largest cell phone carriers in the country, T-Mobile understands what customers need in an international phone plan. T-Mobile’s plans include all the must-have talk, text, and data services travelers need when overseas, which is ideal for those who travel often for work to various destinations. The Go5G Plus plan offers unlimited talk and text in Canada and Mexico and unlimited text in over 215 destinations. The plan also includes 15 GB of high-speed data within Canada and Mexico and 5 GB of high-speed data in over 215 destinations, with unlimited data supplied after with speeds up to 256Kbps.

If you spend a lot of time flying, take advantage of the in-flight connection, which allows flight texting and Wi-Fi connectivity when you’re in the air with Alaska Airlines and select American, Delta, and United flights. T-Mobile TRAVEL is another perk that helps you save up to 40% on rental cars and select hotels while abroad. As a bonus, T-Mobile customers gain access to Netflix and Apple TV+ with the Go5G Plus phone plan, which includes up to 4K UHD video on capable devices.

If you do surpass your 5 GB high-speed data allotment while traveling, T-Mobile users can purchase a pass for one day, 10 days, or 30 days, each with varying amounts of high-speed data. The company site states that you can have just one active pass at a time, implying that after one ends, another can begin. Note that calls made in countries other than Canada or Mexico will be charged $.25 per minute, which may become too costly if you need to make many or long calls for work.

The Go5G Plus plan is ideal for those who travel frequently overseas and need a reliable and diverse plan with ample text, calling, and data coverage. This is especially beneficial for current T-Mobile customers and people comfortable with a higher monthly price point of $90 per month.

Verizon Unlimited Ultimate  »

Unlimited talk, text, and data coverage

Free talk and text to 210+ destinations

Up to 10 GB of high-speed data per plan period

Does not offer the ability to add on a TravelPass for additional high-speed data

Verizon’s Unlimited Ultimate base cell phone plan has a lot to offer. For $100 a month for one line, users gain access to 5G Ultra Wideband, unlimited premium data, and 60 GB of mobile hotspot capability.

The international coverage is equally impressive. This plan provides unlimited talk, text, and data when traveling in Mexico and Canada. In these two countries, you’ll get 2 GB of roaming data per day, before speeds drop to 3 GB. Your data allotment in Canada and Mexico will reset to 2 GB the next day. Verizon also includes more than 210 destinations that allow unlimited talk, text, and data up to 10 GB per month. Once you reach your monthly limit, speeds will drop to 2 GB, which may become inconvenient if you rely on using your data for work or school while abroad.

With the other tiers of Verizon’s Unlimited plan, a TravelPass must be added for any international data, so this Unlimited Ultimate plan is an upgrade for the travel-minded. However, if you’re familiar with being able to add on additional data once you surpass your high-speed allotment, the TravelPass is not an eligible add-on for the Unlimited Ultimate. Still, this is more than most people will need if connecting to free Wi-Fi hotspots throughout a city.

AT&T Unlimited Premium PL  »

Unlimited talk, text, and data in 20 countries in Latin America

60 GB of hotspot data per month

Unlimited, talk, text, and data in and between the U.S., Canada, and Mexico

Per day add-on for talk, text, and data add-on in 210+ destinations

Per month add-on for calling from the U.S. to 85+ countries

AT&T, another leader in the industry, has designed cell phone plans that offer lots of value and add-on features. The AT&T Unlimited Premium PL plan should be at the top of your list if you frequently travel within Latin America. The base plan itself offers unlimited talk and text, 4K UHD streaming, and access to the AT&T ActiveArmor security app to protect personal information and block harmful websites – all for $85.99 per month for one line.

In addition, users can take advantage of unlimited talk, text, and high-speed data in over 20 countries in Latin America, including the Dominican Republic. AT&T’s site advertises that you’ll get the best speeds available while in these countries. Beyond this, customers can purchase calling packages for $15 per month to make calls from the U.S. to 85 select countries, then an additional 140 at discounted rates.

For full international usage outside of the select Latin American countries, Mexico, and Canada, which are also included for unlimited talk, text, and data, subscribers will have to pay a $12 per day rate for data, talk, and text abilities. Data is unlimited if you are an unlimited plan subscriber. Otherwise, it will draw from your domestic data allowance.

AT&T’s Unlimited Premium PL plan is ideal for people who go to Latin America often and can take advantage of their included unlimited talk, text, and data services. If you’re traveling with family, you can also receive discounted monthly rates the more phone lines you add to your plan.

The Bottom Line

No matter where you’re headed, there are cell phone plans to fit your international travel needs. Most base phone plans provide sufficient domestic talk, text, and data coverage, often including ample service and coverage in Mexico and Canada. AT&T’s Unlimited Premium PL offers the best perks for travel within Latin America, while Mint Mobile Unlimited is an affordable option with flexible add-on travel coverage. If you’re a customer with larger carriers like Verizon and T-Mobile, your best option is to upgrade to a plan with travel benefits included in your monthly rate. Remember to check for activation and cancellation fees to avoid surprises on your next bill.

Things To Consider When Buying International Cell Phone Plans

International roaming options.

On a typical day, when you use your phone in an area that is covered by your carrier, that is considered being “in network.” International roaming happens when you travel outside the cellular network area your cell phone carrier covers. “An international phone plan allows you to use your U.S.-based phone on other countries’ cellular networks without paying roaming charges,” says Kristin McGrath, Shopping Expert at RetailMeNot .

It’s important to check with your provider before traveling to ensure you’ll have coverage in your destination and that you know exactly what is covered and for how long. Checking beforehand can help save money on additional charges for excess data usage, calling, or texting services. Alicia Richards from Travelswiththecrew.com , who travels overseas three to four times a year with her family, appreciates the benefits of having an international plan when abroad. “It saves us from sticker shock when we get home and see roaming charges,” she says.

Calling and Texting Options

“Most international calling plans in the U.S. are bundled into other plans,” says Richards. “This usually includes data, texts, and calls in differing increments.” Most major cell phone providers in the U.S. offer unlimited coverage when traveling to Canada and Mexico, which typically includes talk, text, and data usage. In many cases, phone calls in particular are often charged at a per-minute rate. The per-minute rate can also vary depending on the country you’re traveling to.

Data Thresholds

Cell phone plans and providers include data thresholds even on stated “unlimited” plans. While many regular plans and international data inclusions may market unlimited international data, it’s important to look at the fine print. For example, on T-Mobile’s Go5G Plus plan, you can get 5 GB of high-speed international data before your speeds drop to 256 kbps. While you’ll still technically have a connection, it may not be enough to support the run of important features, such as navigation apps, digital tickets, or an online search.

Contract Length and Flexibility

While you’re shopping for international cell phone plans, remember to check for any specified contract terms, especially if you’re switching to a new provider. These days, most major cell phone carriers realize that customers want to avoid being locked into a several-year contract. Many forgo contracts entirely, like Mint Mobile and T-Mobile. Other carriers may offer different contract terms to choose from.

Particularly when not already included with your plan, take a look at how flexible carriers make it to add or remove international plans, perks, and coverage. If you’re selecting an international pass to add your plan, verify the duration, renewal status, and data allotments included. Unless you’re traveling abroad for several consecutive months at a time, the ability to add international coverage on the go can help to ensure you’re only paying for what you need when you need it.

How We Chose the Best International Cell Phone Plans

Our contributor consulted with experts in their field to gain industry insight when creating this list of Best International Cell Phone Plans. She spoke with Kristin McGrath, Shopping Expert at RetailMeNot, and Alicia Richards from Travelswiththecrew.com for information on how to choose and what features to look for in an international data plan. Our team then conducted industry research, focusing on international roaming options, texting and calling, data allowance and speed, as well as customer service and contract terms. Overall, we found a variety of cell phone plans for traveling abroad that provide ample coverage and data limits at affordable prices.

WHY SHOULD YOU TRUST US?

Our contributors and editors at U.S. News 360 Reviews have years of experience researching and reviewing consumer products and services. Zaida Marston, the author of this piece, has written about in-home health and lifestyle products, including product and service reviews for various tech publications. She has contributed to Healthnews, MindBodyGreen, and the travel blog The Happiness Function. Zaida enjoys sharing recommendations for lifestyle products and services that enhance the lives and travel experiences of people everywhere.

International Cell Phone Plans FAQ

For anyone traveling abroad outside of North or Central America, having a reliable international cell phone plan is worth the investment. Richards states that an international plan is great for families, including her own, who want to split up while on vacation, allowing them to stay in communication with each other. She adds that it “also makes apps like Google Translate always available.” There are many international plans to choose from that fit your travel and communication needs, no matter where you’re traveling to.

The cost of international phone plans varies depending on the travel perks included. For example, our best overall Google Fi Unlimited Plus includes international data and text for only $65 per month. If you have an iPhone (which doesn’t work with Google Fi’s plans), T-Mobile’s Go5G Plus plan starts at $95 per month for one line. If you travel internationally irregularly, purchasing a Mint Mobile Unlimited plan for $30 per month doesn’t automatically include international data, but this also means that you won’t be paying unnecessarily for it each month. Instead, you can add on a data pass, only paying for what is needed.

If you receive texts while outside of the country that you have your phone contract in, you will likely be charged unless you have purchased an international plan or pass. International cell phone plans or international add-on passes include free international texting and data, while calling is typically a surcharge.

Note that if you don’t have an international data package, you can likely still send and receive text messages for free as long as you turn your device’s roaming data off and you’re connected to a stable Wi-Fi network. For example, with Apple iMessages, Android Wi-Fi texting, or a third-party messaging app like WhatsApp, you do not need to utilize data to send or receive messages.

“You might save a lot of money if you buy a local SIM upon arrival, and then purchase [the amount of] data you think you’ll need,” says McGrath. This method may be used if you have an unlocked phone that isn’t tied to a specific provider. However, while this might be a cheaper option, people with locked phones tied to their provider may find that adding an international plan is the simpler and more cost-effective option.

About Our Team

Zaida Marston

Contributor

Rachel Hisle

U.S. News 360 Reviews takes an unbiased approach to our recommendations. When you use our links to buy products, we may earn a commission but that in no way affects our editorial independence.

To revisit this article, visit My Profile, then View saved stories .

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How to Use an eSIM for International Travel

An international vacation is a nice opportunity to cut down on your excessive smartphone screen time and be present to soak up all those adventures. (Don’t let life pass you by!) But even if you’re spending less time doomscrolling and more time exploring a new city, you’ll probably still want to use that phone to find your way around, book last-second tours, and stay in touch with friends back home.

If you're traveling internationally, your normal phone plan likely doesn’t include data access in the destination country. Switching over to a local data plan during your trip used to involve swapping in a SIM card you got after landing. But it’s 2024, and you no longer need to purchase a physical card on the way out of the airport—if your smartphone is new enough to have an electronic SIM . An eSIM is a small version of a SIM card that's built into a device.

Last year, I bought a data package from Airalo and installed the eSIM onto my iPhone before heading to Costa Rica. Based on my experience using it, I was impressed with the decently affordable plan as well as the reliable connection.

Are you considering using an eSIM during your next international trip ? Here’s everything you need to know, including whether your phone is compatible, how much data you actually need to buy, and how to set the eSIM up on your phone.

Will an eSIM Work on My Phone?

As a general rule, if you’ve purchased a smartphone released within the past five years, it likely has an eSIM option. Kudos to you if you have a smartphone that’s older than the iPhone XR model, though it’s probably past time at least to get the battery switched out, and you’ll definitely need to get a newer model phone to access eSIM capabilities.

Some smartphones, like the iPhone 15 ( 7/10, WIRED Recommends ) and the Google Pixel 8A ( 8/10, WIRED Recommends ), even have two eSIMs built in, so you can operate dual phone numbers on the same device. This could be helpful if you’re going back and forth between two countries with different data plans.

Also, you’ll need to make sure that your phone is not locked to a single carrier before getting an eSIM. Checkout this helpful article from Consumer Reports for a guide to unlocking your phone’s provider. Still need help? Reach out to your carrier, whether it’s AT&T , T-Mobile , or Verizon , for more assistance.

How Much Data Do I Need?

Most international eSIM data plans are prepaid, so the amount of data you should purchase depends on how much you expect to be using your smartphone while traveling and which apps you plan to use the most. And Airalo is just one of the eSIM options you can purchase online to avoid wandering around your first day in a new country trying to buy a physical SIM card. AloSIM and Airhub are two other popular choices for travelers.

Want to video chat with loved ones before bed and share jealousy-inducing video clips? You’ll likely want to opt for a larger data package, and even that may quickly run out. If you’re just looking to get around using Google Maps and send occasional texts and photos to friends over WhatsApp , then a smaller data package is likely sufficient. Of course, the longer the vacation, the more data you’ll need to consider prepurchasing.

In Costa Rica, I was able to get around just fine with 2 GB of data during my two-week trip, and it cost $17. I scrimped on data by using Wi-Fi wherever possible and switching the phone off when I didn’t need to be connected. Although, I did notice that I racked up data usage by absentmindedly watching videos on social media near the end of the trip. Some things never change.

Worried about going over? During the trip, I tracked my daily data in the Airalo app, and this helped put the usage rate into better perspective . Even though I didn’t end up needing it, the app offered deals if I wanted to add just a smidge more data to the plan to finish the trip off.

In addition to the amount of data you need, pay attention to when the data will expire for the eSIM. For example, the plan I got expired 15 days after activation, which was a great length for that trip.

Now, How Do I Set It Up?

Even though the installation and activation are the most daunting part of the process of getting online with an eSIM, as long as you’re not in a rush and remain open to troubleshooting, it shouldn’t be too overwhelming. Start off by making sure you have a steady internet connection. If this is your first time setting up an eSIM, check out the online guides for the Apple iPhone , Google Pixel , or Samsung Galaxy for more help.

You have the option to choose between a direct, manual, or QR code set up for the Airalo eSIM—I found the direct method to be fairly accessible on an iPhone. No matter the type of phone you own, Airalo’s installation starts off by opening the app ( Android , iOS ) and visiting the My eSIMs tab. Then, tap on the one you want to install.

Next, choose View Instructions, and Direct after that. Read through the block of text on this screen for additional details about the whole process, and then press Install eSIM .

Here’s where the installation process will diverge based on your device, and it’s worth checking out the company’s user guides for iPhones , Pixels , and Galaxies that are available online. Also, if you're an iPhone owner, and you’re installing the eSIM before heading out on your trip, then leave the default line as your Primary SIM. But if you’re already on vacation, you could pick the new Secondary SIM throughout this process.

Whenever you’re ready to activate the eSIM and start using the international data plan, open the Settings on your smartphone and follow the steps laid out on Airalo’s website for your device (linked above).

You’ll need to make sure the eSIM line and the phone’s data roaming option are both turned on. Encountering any problems activating it? Check out Airalo’s help center for additional advice. You can also reach out to the company directly.

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Here's what might replace the CVS at Tedeschi Plaza in Braintree

BRAINTREE − The largest international child swim school chain might open its second Massachusetts location in Braintree.

The town’s planning board is considering a proposal to open an Aqua-Tots Swim School at Tedeschi Plaza. The school would replace the CVS at 270 Grove St .

Tyler Bradshaw, who owns and operates the Norwood Aqua-Tots location , said the hours would likely be similar to the existing school, from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. with peak times on Saturday, bringing about 40 to 45 cars in and out of the plaza. 

There would be morning and evening lessons with a break from 1 to 3 p.m. Parents would be required to stay in the school during the lesson.

More: Braintree board approves new CVS at Liberty and Grove streets

According to plans submitted to the town , the pool would be 65 feet long and 27 feet wide. The school would have 14 changing rooms, bathrooms, showers, a coffee bar and two viewing areas for parents.

Aqua-Tots offers 30-minute group, semi-private and private weekly lessons. At the Norwood location, those lessons start at $125 a month and can go up to $1,350 a month depending on the frequency and type of lesson. Children from 4 months to 12 years old can take lessons.

The swim school franchise has locations across the U.S. as well in Canada, Mexico, the Middle East and Southeast Asia.

Aside from town approvals, Bradshaw said Aqua-Tots is also waiting for CVS to leave. The retailer is on a month-to-month lease as it wraps up work on its new stand-alone location diagonally across from the plaza at Grove and Liberty streets. The planning board signed off on the new CVS in May 2022.

A CVS spokesperson said the new 13,000-square-foot location is expected to open in late summer. The store will have a drive-thru, a MinuteClinic and a UPS drop-off site.

The planning board plans to continue its discussion at its Aug. 13 meeting.

Hannah Morse covers growth and development for The Patriot Ledger. Contact her at  [email protected] .

This article originally appeared on The Patriot Ledger: Here's what might replace the CVS at Tedeschi Plaza in Braintree

Global tech outage hits airlines, banks, health care and public transit

In the u.s., hundreds of flights were canceled friday morning and some public transit systems reported impacts..

A defective update from U.S. cybersecurity software company CrowdStrike crashed Microsoft Windows systems around the globe Friday . The tech outage disrupted operations across industries such as banks, hospitals and 911 call centers, plus grounded flights and hampered public transit systems and. Although a fix was deployed to restore most systems by the afternoon to return to normal, ripple effects may be felt throughout the weekend, experts warn. 

CrowdStrike , which advertises being used by over half of Fortune 500 companies, said one of its recent content updates had a defect that impacted Microsoft's Windows Operating System, adding the incident was "not a security incident or cyberattack."

"Earlier today, a CrowdStrike update was responsible for bringing down a number of IT systems globally," a Microsoft spokesperson said in a statement on Friday afternoon. "We are actively supporting customers to assist in their recovery."

The company's CEO, George Kurtz, apologized for the disruptions in a post on X, noting the issue has been identified and isolated and a fix has been deployed. CrowdStrike is "working with all impacted customers to ensure that systems are back up and they can deliver the services their customers are counting on." Meanwhile, Microsoft said, "the underlying cause has been fixed" and impacted Microsoft 365 apps and services have been recovered, though the company continues to monitor the issue.

Kurtz went on to warn in his statement, "We know that adversaries and bad actors will try to exploit events like this. I encourage everyone to remain vigilant and ensure that you’re engaging with official CrowdStrike representatives."

In the U.S., thousands of flights were canceled Friday morning . American Airlines, Delta Air Lines and United Airlines were among those who grounded flights less than an hour after Microsoft said it resolved a cloud-services-related outage that impacted several low-cost carriers.

“Every line is long,” said Chance Ortego, 31, whose flight to New York was canceled Friday morning.

Public transit systems in the U.S. also reported temporary impacts, but for the most part, trains and buses were running as scheduled. The Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority in Washington, D.C., said its "website and some of our internal systems are currently down," but trip-planning applications were later restored. In New York City, the Metropolitan Transportation Authority also said some of its MTA customer information systems were temporarily offline until around 5:30 p.m.

Around the world, the outages disrupted London's Stock Exchange, caused major train delays in the U.K., sent British broadcaster Sky News off air, forced medical facilities in Europe and the U.S. to cancel some services and caused disruptions at airports in Europe, Singapore, Hong Kong and India.

Widespread economic impact from the outage is expected to be small, even though many companies were still trying to resume full operations by the time the stock market closed.

Travel disruptions: Over 2,000 US flights canceled amid global IT outage

Developments:

◾ More than 5,000 flights were canceled globally as of 3:30 p.m. Eastern, about 4.6% of all scheduled commercial flights for the day, according to aviation analytics company Cirium.

◾ Some U.S. border crossings saw impacts amid the outage: Traffic stalled on the Ambassador Bridge, which connects Detroit with Windsor, Ontario, Canada, as well as at the Detroit-Windsor Tunnel, the Detroit Free Press reported . CBP One, the Customs and Border Patrol app, and the agency’s border wait times website, each appeared to experience outages.

◾ U.S. stocks closed lower on Friday, in the wake of the outage. CrowdStrike shares closed down 11.1% at $304.96, with analysts predicting the outage would cost the company money to fix and restore trust with its customers. It was the lowest close for the shares since May 2. Microsoft shares fared better, closing down only 0.74% at $437.11.

◾ Krispy Kreme gave away free doughnuts  Friday due to the global tech outage.

◾ Some Starbucks locations were reportedly taking only cash Friday, and customers reported being unable to use the coffee chain's mobile app.

◾ Some had a sense of humor through it , with workers who had to muddle through expressing their wishes for a digital snow day from the office − "Knock Teams out" − as the outage didn't equate to a work stoppage for all.

◾ Dubai International Airport said on X it was operating normally following "a global system outage that affected the check-in process for some airlines." It added the affected airlines "promptly switched to an alternate system, allowing normal check-in operations to resume swiftly."

CrowdStrike impact: How a global IT outage unraveled the world's tech

How the CrowdStrike outage played out throughout the day:

Portland issues emergency declaration

Portland, Oregon, Mayor Ted Wheeler issued an emergency declaration Friday over the tech outage, with a statement noting the outages are affecting city servers, employee computers and emergency communications.

Meanwhile, the Maryland Department of Emergency Management increased its state activation level from "normal" to "partial," citing the tech outage. A post on X says a "partial" activation is for incidents that require "significant monitoring or resources," with additional emergency operations staffing from other agencies, functions and supporting organizations.

- Bailey Schulz

What is CrowdStrike?

CrowdStrike is a popular cybersecurity software company created in 2012 by CEO George Kurtz, along with Dmitri Alperovitch, and Gregg Marston.

According to its website, CrowdStrike has the "world's most advanced cloud-native platform that protects and enables the people, processes and technologies that drive modern enterprise."

Alperovitch, CrowdStrike's former Chief Technology Officer, is a member of the Biden administration's Homeland Security Advisory Council , which is meant to provide advice and expertise to support decision-making "across the spectrum of homeland security operations."

- Gabe Hauari , Bailey Schulz

What caused the CrowdStrike outage?

According to an alert sent by CrowdStrike to its clients and reviewed by Reuters, the company's "Falcon Sensor" software caused Microsoft Windows to crash and display a blue screen, known informally as the "Blue Screen of Death." 

Kurtz said "there was an issue with a Falcon content update for Windows Hosts" but customers “remain fully protected,” according to a post on X . He also reiterated that Friday's outage "was not a security or cyber incident."

Anne Neuberger, deputy national security advisor for cyber and emerging technology, said she spoke to Kurtz Friday and confirmed the incident did not appear to be related to a cyber attack.

“At this point, we believe that it is an IT-related patch, an issue with that patch,” she said while speaking at the Aspen Security Forum in Colorado. "I think they're determining what went wrong there."

‘I’m just hoping to make it onto a flight’

Chance Ortego had reached the finish line of a nearly two-week work trip when he saw the news all air travelers dread: his flight was delayed. 

Ortego was in the AirTrain en route to his flight from San Francisco International Airport when he heard other travelers discussing the outage. After checking the status of his 7:05 a.m. Delta Air Lines flight to New York – which was pushed back nearly three hours – he rebooked another flight at 9:15 a.m. 

He later learned his original flight had been canceled. Ortego was among the thousands of passengers around the world facing delays, cancellations and problems checking in as airports and airlines were caught up in a massive IT outage that grounded U.S. flights early Friday. 

“I was already planning to sleep,” said Ortego, who works in health care. “Now I'm just hoping to make it onto a flight.” 

Inside the airport, there was more chaos than a typical travel day as airlines recovered from the outage. Many screens were blank except for an error message and airport personnel made announcements directing questions about flights to airlines.

All U.S. airlines issued travel waivers for those affected to easily rebook their plans. Those who opted to cancel can rest easy knowing the Department of Transportation classified the cancellations and delays as controllable, thus airlines are responsible for upholding the commitments they've made to customers when it comes to policies like rebooking or hotel and meal vouchers as the mess gets sorted out. 

- Nathan Diller

Impact on the economy

The outage isn’t expected to have any effect on the broader economy unless it persists for days.

“At this point, the IT outage is more a nuisance than an economic event,” says Mark Zandi, chief economist of Moody’s Analytics. “If it drags on into early next week, the economic damage will begin to mount.”

If the outage is limited to a day or two, canceled flights can be rebooked and banking transactions can be completed later.

“There is plenty of time for activity to be recovered over the remainder of the month,” says Jonathan Miller, senior U.S. economist at Barclays.

- Paul Davidson

Outage impacts US public transit websites, ticketing

Major cities were generally able to keep trains and busses running, but tech issues have been causing problems with ticketing and other tech systems, leading to delays in some cases.

The Washington, D.C., Metropolitan Area Transit Authority reported website and other tech issues, but said trains and buses were running as scheduled.

The Metropolitan Transportation Authority in New York City reported problems with "customer information systems" but said it's buses and trains were unaffected. The Port Authority of New York and New Jersey said it was not affected but urged riders who might be using public transit to any area airports to check with their airlines before traveling for updates.

New Jersey Transit said some of its ticketing machines may have been impacted but its buses and trains were, for the most part, running on time. Some trains were out of operation Friday due to repairs that had to be made because of the intense heat that blanketed the region all week.

The Chicago Tribune reported Friday morning that commuter rail lines were affected, though it noted traffic is typically lighter on Fridays than other days. Delays on some lines were as long as 45 minutes, the Tribune reported. Chicago Transit bus and rail service was not affected but some CTA customers were unable to add value to their payment cards via the app or machines overnight, but the issue has been resolved.

Some transit systems, including Metro Transit in Minneapolis and Cincinnati Metro reported temporary disruptions to websites, trip planners, social media and other applications but no impact to its bus or trains.

- Phaedra Trethan

Despite summer break, schools disrupted by IT issues

The CrowdStrike outage crashed some computers at colleges Friday and hampered a popular software for enrolling students in K-12 schools for the fall.

The University of Rochester, a private school in New York, told students to keep rebooting their systems until the problem was fixed. The University of Alabama’s technology office said its campus computers using Microsoft Windows crashed. Rutgers University and the University of Kentucky also reported disruptions. 

Despite the summer break, K-12 schools in Maryland and Kansas said they were having problems with PowerSchool, a widely used software for grading and student enrollment. An update posted to the company’s webpage Friday morning said the outage was impacting all its major products, including its enrollment feature. 

- Zachary Schermele

911 call centers disrupted

State and local law enforcement agencies across the country reported disruptions to 911 services after the outage hit.

National reports of 911 outages peaked at more than 100 on Friday just before 3 a.m. according to Downdetector .

Agencies in at least seven states reported temporary outages, including the St. Louis County Sheriff's Office and Faribault Police Department in Minnesota, 911 systems New Hampshire , Fulton County, Indiana , and Middletown, Ohio . 

Non-emergency and 911 calls to multiple dispatch centers in Alaska "were not able to be answered" for around seven hours overnight, Austin McDaniel, communications director for the Alaska Department of Public Safety, told USA TODAY in an email.

"Dispatch centers switched to analog phone systems or to partner dispatch centers that were not impacted to continue taking calls," he wrote. Systems in the state were back up as of 4:23 a.m. local time.

The Phoenix Police Department was also impacted ‒ 911 call centers could take calls, but had to dispatch officers manually, the Arizona Republic, part of the USA TODAY Network, reported .

The Federal Communications Commission said in an email to USA TODAY that it was aware of reports of disruptions to 911.

"We’re closely working with other federal agencies to provide assistance and determine the extent of these service disruptions.”

- Cybele Mayes-Osterman

Biden briefed on global outage as federal agencies assess impacts

President Joe Biden has been briefed on the CrowdStrike outage and his team is in touch with the cybersecurity firm, as well as with impacted companies and agencies, according to the White House. Biden will receive "sector-by-sector updates throughout the day and is standing by to provide assistance as needed," the White House added.

Meanwhile, the Department of Homeland Security said in a statement it is working to "fully assess and address system outages."

DHS added it's working alongside the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency as well as CrowdStrike, Microsoft and federal, state, local and critical infrastructure partners to get a grasp on the incident and its impacts.

Over 2K US flights canceled amid outage

Several U.S. carriers, including American Airlines, United Airlines, and Delta Air Lines, issued ground stops for all their flights early on Friday due to communication problems, according to the Federal Aviation Administration.

The FAA said operations were no longer impacted as of 10:53 a.m. ET, but it continues to monitor the situation and warned the global IT issue could continue to affect flights this weekend.

There were more than 2,500 U.S. flights canceled and more than 7,900 delays as of 3:25 p.m. EDT, according to flight-tracking website  FlightAware .

Most airlines were able to resume operations as the morning progressed, but many said they expected disruptions to continue throughout the day.

Read more about the outage's travel impacts

Hospitals cancel nonemergency services

Hospitals across the U.S. and overseas were impacted by the outage, which forced some to cancel elective surgeries and halt visitations as well as outpatient services.

Mass General Brigham in Boston canceled previously scheduled nonurgent surgeries, procedures and medical visits, according to a statement sent to USA TODAY. In the same area, Tufts Medical Center told media outlet WHDH it’s still assessing the outage’s effect on clinical and surgical operations.

In Texas, Ben Taub Hospital and Lyndon B. Johnson Hospital suspended "hospital visitation and patient information," citing a "Microsoft Windows failure," according to a statement from Harris Health System . Cincinnati Children's Hospital said many of its Microsoft-based computer systems are down because of the outage, which forced the hospital to cancel early morning appointments.

"We are in touch with the hospital field and the federal government and monitoring the situation closely to better understand its scope and impact," said John Riggi, the American Hospital Association's national adviser for cybersecurity and risk. 

Two hospitals in northern German cities canceled elective operations scheduled for Friday but continued to provide patient care and emergency services.

Outages exposes fragility of internet infrastructure

While there were reports of companies gradually restoring their services, analysts weighed the potential of what one called the biggest-ever outage in the industry and the broader economy.

"This is a very, very uncomfortable illustration of the fragility of the world’s core Internet infrastructure," Ciaran Martin, Professor at Oxford University's Blavatnik School of Government and former head of the U.K. National Cyber Security Centre, told Reuters.

"IT security tools are all designed to ensure that companies can continue to operate in the worst-case scenario of a data breach, so to be the root cause of a global IT outage is an unmitigated disaster," said Ajay Unni, CEO of StickmanCyber, one of Australia's largest cybersecurity services companies.

Outages ripple far and wide

From the United Kingdom to Singapore, the effects of tech outages were far-reaching on Friday.

British broadcaster Sky News went off-air and train companies in the U.K. reported long delays. Departure boards at several U.K. airports appeared to freeze, according to passengers who posted reports on social media.

London's Stock Exchange reported experiencing disruptions. Some hospitals also reported difficulties processing appointments and several chain retail stores said they couldn't take payments. The soccer club Manchester United said on X that it had to postpone a scheduled release of tickets.

In Australia, media, banks and telecoms companies suffered outages.

There was no information to suggest the outage was a cybersecurity incident, the office of Australia's National Cyber Security Coordinator Michelle McGuinness said in a post on X.

New York's Metropolitan Transportation Authority said some of its systems were offline due to a worldwide technical outage, but have since been restored. It said MTA train and bus services were unaffected.

Spanish authorities reported a "computer incident" at all its airports.

Berlin's main airport said check-ins were delayed because of a "technical fault."

Ryanair, Europe’s largest airline by passenger numbers, warned passengers of potential disruptions which it said would affect "all airlines operating across the Network." It did not specify the nature of the disruptions.

There were reports a shipping terminal in Gdansk on Poland's Baltic coast was not operating normally.

NetBlocks, a digital-connectivity watchdog, said that the outage reported by global airlines, corporates and infrastructure services firms and others was having "minimal" impact on global Internet connectivity.

Contributing: Reuters

CrowdStrike deploys fix for issue causing global tech outage

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Reporting by Deborah Sophia in Bengaluru; Editing by Krishna Chandra Eluri and Sriraj Kalluvila

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Australia warns of malicious websites after cyber outage

Australia's cyber intelligence agency said on Saturday that "malicious websites and unofficial code" were being released online claiming to aid recovery from Friday's global digital outage, which hit media, retailers, banks and airlines.

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NASA Says No Plan to Use SpaceX to Rescue Boeing Starliner Astronauts

In a news conference from aboard the International Space Station, Butch Wilmore and Suni Williams said they had confidence in the troubled spacecraft to get them home.

By Kenneth Chang

For two astronauts supposedly stranded in space , Suni Williams and Butch Wilmore of NASA are certainly enjoying living aboard the International Space Station for an extra month or two.

“We are having a great time here on I.S.S.,” Ms. Williams said during a news conference from orbit on Wednesday.

She added: “I’m not complaining. Butch isn’t complaining that we’re up here for a couple of extra weeks.”

Ms. Williams and Mr. Wilmore arrived at the space station on June 6 as part of a shakedown flight for Boeing’s new Starliner spacecraft. Their stay was originally scheduled for just over a week, but it now has stretched indefinitely as engineers work to better understand problems that occurred with Starliner’s propulsion system before it docked with the space station.

The Boeing Starliner is one of two spacecraft that NASA has hired to take astronauts to and from the space station. The other, the Crew Dragon from SpaceX, has been in operation for four years, but NASA officials say they want two different spacecraft so they have a backup in case one vehicle experiences a problem.

Starliner launched successfully last month . One small helium leak occurred before launch, but four more popped up once Starliner reached orbit. The inert gas is used to push the propellant that powers the spacecraft’s maneuvering thrusters in the near-weightless environment of orbit.

Then, as the spacecraft approached the space station, five of Starliner’s 28 small thrusters did not fire quite as expected, and the computer switched them off. During the troubleshooting, four of the five misbehaving thrusters were brought back into service, although with diminished power. The spacecraft was able to dock successfully, and the astronauts have been aboard the outpost since.

Despite the glitches, Mr. Wilmore gushed about Starliner. On the first day when the astronauts tried flying the spacecraft manually, “The spacecraft performed unbelievably well,” Mr. Wilmore said during the news conference.

When the thruster problems occurred on the second day, “You could tell the thrust control, the capability was degraded,” he said.

The spacecraft’s automated navigation system was still able to precisely guide Starliner to the docking port, Mr. Wilmore said.

NASA and Boeing officials have insisted that the spacecraft can safely bring Ms. Williams and Mr. Wilmore back to Earth, but that it is prudent to gather as much data as possible to prevent the problems from recurring during future Starliner missions. They have not yet set a return date.

“We’re taking time to build confidence in the spacecraft to understand the thruster performance,” Steve Stich, the manager of NASA’s commercial crew program, said during a second news conference, this one on Earth, on Wednesday. “What we’re doing is not unusual for a new spacecraft.”

Mr. Stich said that optimistically, Starliner, with Ms. Williams and Mr. Wilmore aboard, would return by the end of July.

“There’s really been no discussion with sending another Dragon to rescue the Starliner crew,” Mr. Stich said.

NASA and Boeing are conducting experiments at the White Sands Test Facility in New Mexico using a thruster identical to the ones on Starliner, reproducing the pace of firings that were performed en route to the space station.

That will allow engineers to examine the thruster directly to see if there is any damage. The same test thruster will then simulate the firings needed for the return trip. In orbit, the troublesome thrusters are on what is known as the service module, a cylindrical piece below the capsule where the astronauts sit. The service module will be jettisoned to burn up in the atmosphere during the astronauts’ return trip, so there will not be a chance to directly inspect it for problems.

Those tests should be completed by this weekend, Mr. Stich said.

Analysis has indicated that Starliner has more than enough helium for the trip home.

Still, Starliner, already years behind schedule , could face more delays in the coming year.

The hope was for Starliner to be ready for its first operational mission in February, taking four astronauts to the space station for a six-month stay. Mr. Stich said no decision would be made until after the test flight has landed, but said, “The longer we go, probably the more risk there is to that date in February.”

NASA has been preparing for the possibility of substituting SpaceX’s Crew Dragon for the February mission. The next Starliner flight would then be pushed to later in 2025.

Mr. Wilmore said he and Ms. Williams remained “absolutely confident” in Starliner.

“We will be ready then unless the data shows otherwise,” he said. “But right now, based on what we know, we are absolutely ready.”

Kenneth Chang, a science reporter at The Times, covers NASA and the solar system, and research closer to Earth. More about Kenneth Chang

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