How do Iget a cell phone when I arrive in the U.S.?
Choosing a cell phone plan in United States is somewhat different from other countries. In the United States there are three types of cell phone plans: prepaid plan, individual plan, and family plan.
1). Prepaid plan
For a prepaid plan, you have to buy a prepaid cell phone card. A social security number (SSN) is not required to apply for it, and there is no monthly fee. However, prepaid plans are generally more expensive than other plans.
2). Individual plan
Individual plans cover only you and no one else. The plan may include cell phones at a reduced price or even for free. Individual plans require a SSN. If you do not have a SSN, a deposit is usually required.
3). Family Plan
Family plans cover multiple people in one household. The cellphones are included, and just like an Individual plan, they are usually at a reduced price or free. Family plans require a SSN. If you do not have an SSN, a deposit is usually required.
In the United States, there are more than 150 carriers that offer different types of cell phone plans. The largest and most popular carriers include: Verizon Wireless, AT&T, T-Mobile, and Sprint. Smaller carriers include: Cricket Wireless, MetroPCS, Boost Wireless.
Each carrier has their strengths and weaknesses. Bigger carriers tend to be more expensive, while smaller carriers may have weaker cell phone services. Bigger carriers may also offer additional services such as bundling (for example, combining cell phone and home internet services). Smaller carriers might have better prices for their plans. Before deciding on a plan, make sure you read through the contract to avoid surprise charges and fees.
If you do not want to get a new cell phone, you can get a new SIM card for your phone. Learn everything you ever wanted to know about SIM cards, carriers, brands, and types here. You can also head to one of the following nearby stores to get more information and have a SIM card installed in your phone.
FAQs
Mobile telephone networks differ from country to country, and your phone may be incompatible with the networks in the country you are visiting. Your phone might work for voice calls, but other functions – such as text messaging or sending and receiving data – might not.
How do I know if my cell phone will work internationally? ›
Phones connect using frequency bands. Different countries have specific bands for mobile networks. Ensure your phone supports the frequency bands of the country you're traveling to. Multi-band phones, supporting several frequencies, offer better international compatibility.
How can I get my cell phone to work internationally? ›
How to Use Your Phone Internationally—Without Breaking the Bank
- Consider a carrier with a free international plan.
- Buy an international plan.
- Use Wi-Fi communication apps.
- Download before you go.
- Rent a hot spot.
- Purchase a local SIM card.
While you're in the US, you can make calls to another country using your device. If you call other countries only occasionally, you can pay a standard per-minute rate.
How do I make sure my phone works abroad? ›
- Sign up for Google Fi. Google Fi is a virtual cell phone service provider. ...
- Get free overseas data using T-Mobile and Sprint. ...
- Buy a local SIM card in your destination. ...
- Utilize an eSIM card. ...
- Pay for an international plan add-on.
Can you use your regular SIM card for international travel? You can use your regular SIM card for international travel. However, you may face additional charges when using your phone abroad - and an international SIM provides extra functionality for travelers.
How to prepare your phone for international travel? ›
7 Simple Ways To Prepare Your Phone For Traveling Abroad
- Download Your Photos and Contacts to a Safe Space. ...
- Free Up Some Space or Invest in Cloud Space for Photos. ...
- Turn on Your Phone's Tracker. ...
- Download Useful Apps Before Traveling. ...
- Download Music, Movies, and Maps Ahead of Time. ...
- Buy an eSIM.
In addition to using airplane mode, you can also turn off international roaming and mobile data before you go. With this option, you can still use Wi-Fi, as well as some offline navigation apps, like Google Maps , CityMaps2Go , Maps.Me , and HERE WeGo .
Should I turn off data when traveling internationally? ›
Even if you decide to get a local SIM card, these tips will help you out by saving data abroad. Turn off roaming. This stops cellular data use so you won't be paying extra for a plan you don't have. You can still get calls and text with Wi-Fi, but your phone won't send or receive data on networks.
Who pays if I call a cell phone internationally? ›
The calling party must pay for calls placed to wireless phones. Consequently, when you call international wireless customers using your landline phone, foreign service providers may pass through to your U.S. service provider the additional cost of connecting the call, which shows up as a surcharge on your bill.
You don't pay extra. The person calliing you from overseas is paying for the call.
Can I make international calls without WiFi? ›
Callmama is a leading provider of free international calling without the Internet, offering users an efficient and cost-effective way to connect with their loved ones across borders. With Callmama, you can make free phone calls to any country in the world without the need for an internet connection.
Is there a phone that can be used internationally? ›
Best Buy has a great selection of unlocked phones to choose from that work on international networks. You'll find popular brands such as Samsung, Motorola, BLU, LG, Sony and more. Plan on taking a lot of photos? Choose an unlocked phone with a powerful camera.
How do I know if my phone is global? ›
Go to About Phone. These 2 shows the nessesary data to know the region and installed software. If you mention model number and build it's possible to identify it. This device which country?
Can I use my cell phone on international flights? ›
If your plane has Wi-Fi, you are free to email, browse the web and use social media. It depends on the destination you're flying from and to. It's not permitted to call on domestic airlines, however many international airlines, in fact, though many only offer the service on select routes.
