The Best International Phone And Data Plans: Everything You Need To Know To Use Your Cell Phone Abroad

Having a working cell phone while traveling internationally can make a world of difference. Think of how often you use your GPS (Which way to the metro station?), internet browser (What time does the museum close?), messaging apps (Hey, are we still meeting at the restaurant later?), and mobile apps (I'll grab an Uber to meet you!) — just in a single afternoon. You'll probably want data on your next trip abroad, and perhaps a lot of it.

Alas, roaming rates can be extremely expensive. Even if you don't call or text while abroad, background updates to apps can run up unexpected roaming fees. Here's how to avoid those hidden charges, plus everything else you need to know about international plans offered by major phone carriers.

Overview of International Phone Plans

Perhaps the easiest option for continuing to use your phone while abroad is to purchase an international plan through your current carrier. This can work out to be the most cost-effective choice, but it isn't always. International roaming plans are typically best if you use your phone sparingly while abroad. The longer you travel, the higher the bill in many cases.

Before we delve into the specifics of each plan, here are some important things to note:

With most plans — at least the ones mentioned here — you will be charged only once you begin using your phone internationally. However, if you have cellular data turned on (i.E., you're not in airplane mode), these international plans may be activated by background data from apps refreshing, email syncing, and device or software updates.

Add these international plans to each device you'll use them on before your trip.

Once you start using your phone in your destination, you should receive a text that the international plan is active.

Billing varies by carrier and plan; you could be billed immediately after you begin using data abroad or after an entire billing cycle passes. However, you wouldn't normally be charged more often than once per 24 hours, even if you travel to multiple countries in a day.

AT&T International Plan

AT&T is the third largest mobile phone service provider in the U.S. If you have AT&T, here are your options:

Pay per day: Add the International Day Pass to your current plan for $10 per day, per device, to call, text, and use data as you would at home in more than 200 destinations. Your data allowance and talk minutes will be the same as your current plan, but you'll get unlimited texts to any numbers in the world. Calls must be made to the U.S. Or another country on the IDP list. You can only use the day pass for 10 days per monthly billing cycle.

For longer trips: If you're going to need cell phone coverage for a week or more, then it may be more cost-effective to get the AT&T Passport Plan. The plan includes unlimited texts, phone calls for $0.35 per minute, and either 2GB of data for $70 per month or 6GB for $140 per month. Be careful with your data usage; you'll be charged $30 per GB of usage over your plan's allowance.

Traveling to Canada or Mexico: All unlimited and some limited plans will get you unlimited talk and text plus access to your data plan at no extra charge within the U.S., Canada, and Mexico. Customers on other plans can add the Roam North America feature to their existing plans to receive these benefits, too.

Verizon International Plan

Verizon has more subscribers than any other American mobile phone service provider. If you're one of them, here are your options:

Pay per day: For $10 per day, per line, Verizon's TravelPass Plan lets you use your domestic talk, text, and data plan in more than 200 destinations outside of the U.S. Calls within the country you're visiting and calls back to the U.S. Are included, but calls to another country will incur additional international long-distance rates, which vary depending on the country.

For longer trips: Verizon's international monthly plan costs $100 per line, per month, and gets you unlimited data — including 20GB of high speed, then 3G speeds after that — 250 minutes of talk, and unlimited texting. Be mindful of your minutes on this plan — overages will cost you an additional $0.25 per minute.

Traveling to Canada or Mexico: All Verizon unlimited mobile plans allow you to use your usual talk, text, and data allowances in Canada and Mexico without additional charges. Those with other Verizon plans can buy the TravelPass for $5 per day to use in Canada or Mexico.

T-Mobile International Plan

T-Mobile offers a range of perks to international travelers, including:

Pay per day: T-Mobile's International Day Pass gives you 512MB of high-speed data and unlimited calling for $5 a day. The plan works in more than 200 countries and destinations, which T-Mobile calls "Simple Global" countries.

For longer trips: T-Mobile's Magenta and Magenta MAX plans give you unlimited texting and data in Simple Global destinations at no additional cost. With the standard Magenta plan, you get 5GB of high speed in just 11 European countries, then speeds of 128kbps after that and in other Simple Global regions. With Magenta MAX, you get high speed across T-Mobile's global range. With both, international calls cost $0.25 per minute.

Note that the Essentials plan, T-Mobile's most basic, includes unlimited international texting but no data, and prepaid plans do not include global coverage. Data speeds are slow with T-Mobile's included coverage, however, and if you want to use your phone for media streaming or just have faster data, you may want to purchase an International Pass.

The great benefit of T-Mobile international plans is that even after you've used up all your allotted data, you can still use unlimited data and texting at Simple Global speeds, unlike other carriers, which charge you for data overages.

Another perk for travelers: T-Mobile offers in-flight Wi-Fi through a partnership with Intelsat. Get one hour free with Magenta or unlimited in-flight Wi-Fi with Magenta Plus.

Traveling to Canada or Mexico: Unlimited texts and data are included at no extra cost. However, only Magenta and Magenta MAX plans will get you high-speed data in Canada and Mexico.

Sprint International Plan

Sprint merged with T-Mobile in 2020 but still offers its own mobile plans. Here's what it offers in terms of international coverage:

Pay per day: Sprint offers a day pass to use high-speed data in more than 200 destinations. Depending on where you are, it costs $5 or $10 per day. You could also pay weekly — $25 or $50, respectively.

For longer trips: Sprint's Global Roaming is included with all Sprint plans, providing free international texting and basic data of up to 2G speeds at no extra cost. International calls cost $0.25 per minute. If you have a need for faster data, you should purchase the high-speed data day pass.

T-Mobile and Sprint are doubly convenient as they require no activation prior to travel. Simply start using your phone while abroad and your included global coverage will kick in.

Traveling to Canada or Mexico: Texting and data at basic speeds are free on all plans. Additionally, those with unlimited data plans get a high-speed allowance while in Canada or Mexico — 5GB for Unlimited Basic subscribers, 10GB for Unlimited Plus subscribers, and unlimited high speed for Unlimited Premium subscribers. On other plans, you can buy high-speed data for $2 per day or $10 per week.

Caiaimage/Paul Bradbury/Getty Images Purchasing a SIM Card Abroad

If you plan to be abroad for a longer period of time — say for a year to teach English, a two-month sabbatical, or even a month-long backpacking trip — it may make sense (and be more cost effective) to purchase a SIM card abroad. In order to use a local or international SIM card, your phone must be unlocked.

Having an "unlocked" phone typically means you own your phone outright — either you've paid all your installments or you bought the phone at full price to begin with — and have gone through the process of unlocking your phone with your carrier, often as simple as following a set of instructions online. If you bought your phone from Verizon, you might be able to avoid this process as the carrier automatically unlocks its phones after 60 days.

Local vs. International SIM Cards

Local SIM cards work only in the country where you buy them. This is often the cheapest option because you're effectively paying as a local. Local SIMs will also provide you fast data as you'll be using local networks. You can purchase a local SIM card from a vendor when you arrive in your destination country — even at the airport, if you want.

If you plan to travel across borders, an international SIM card might be a better option as it will allow you to use one SIM in multiple countries. You can purchase and set up an international SIM before you travel, saving you the trouble of purchasing one abroad. Do your research, though, because international SIM rates can be even more expensive than your carrier's international plans. Companies such as WorldSIM, OneSimCard, Telestial, and Mobal offer international SIM cards that provide different coverage options and price points.

If you're traveling to Europe, you can purchase a SIM card that works throughout the EU. This is likely to be cheaper than purchasing an international SIM card.

How Does Using a SIM Card Work?

You can buy a local SIM card at most wireless stores and even at some airports or convenience stores. Some places may require certain documentation such as your passport. Ask for help putting the new SIM card in your phone if you need it, and if you purchase from an expert (as opposed to a supermarket). Just make sure not to lose your original SIM so you can put it back into your phone when you go back home.

If you run out of minutes or data on the card, you can always go back to the store to top up or purchase more data and minutes online. Do some quick research to figure out which carriers offer the most bang for your buck in your destination.

Buying or Renting a Phone Abroad

If your current phone is still under contract, you can buy or rent a local phone in your destination (often for cheap) from a company like Mobal or Cellular Abroad, then purchase a SIM locally. Or, if you've still got an old phone tucked away somewhere, unlock that phone and use it instead for traveling.

Using a Third-party Data Provider

While a local SIM is certainly a great, cost-efficient option, most travelers aren't concerned with making calls and texting with a local phone number. If you just want to be able to have Internet access and use the apps on your phone, a third-party data-only provider is a great alternative.

GigSky, for example, is an international eSIM (no physical card required) that gives you mobile data in more than 190 destinations. It's super easy to purchase and activate — just download the app, pick a plan, download the eSIM, and you're good to go. GigSky offers four plans: seven days and 1GB of data for $8.99, 15 days and 3GB of data for $22.99, 30 days and 5GB of data for $34.99, and 30 days of 10GB of data for $68.99. If you run out, you can top up through the app.

Another option, Google Fi provides data through T-Mobile's network, and it uses Wi-Fi for calling and texting wherever available across more than 200 destinations. There are no contracts or activation fees, and rates range from $20 to $65 per line depending on how many lines you want to include. The most basic plan will get you unlimited international texting from the U.S. To other countries, unlimited data, calling, and texting in the U.S., Canada, and Mexico, and 5GB of high-speed hotspot tethering; the Plus plan will get you all that plus international calling to more than 50 destinations, data in more than 200 destinations, and unlimited high-speed hotspot tethering. If your phone is compatible, you can use an eSIM instead of a physical SIM card.

Using a Portable Wi-Fi Hotspot

If you plan to do a lot of work while you're abroad and would like constant access to Wi-Fi on your laptop instead of just on your phone, you might want to look into getting a portable Wi-Fi device. These provide Wi-Fi access wherever you bring them, plus they can be accessed by multiple people and devices at the same time. One good option for international travel is the SIMO Solis Lite, available on Amazon. It's small enough to fit in your pocket, works in more than 135 countries, can connect to 10 devices at once, and provides the option of a VPN for extra security.

Traveling Without Data

Of course, if you don't want to spend any money at all to use your phone abroad, you can simply be on the lookout for free Wi-Fi signal. In a perfect world, free, reliable Wi-Fi would be everywhere. But in reality, open Wi-Fi networks may be few and far between while you travel, and even when available, they often provide slow, spotty connection (or none at all). If you choose to wing it with open Wi-Fi networks, just make sure to leave your phone on airplane mode. You will still be able to connect to Wi-Fi, but this ensures that you won't be charged international roaming fees because of background data running. To be extra cautious, turn off cellular data in the settings of your phone.

Charging Your Phone Abroad

After investing time and money to be able to use your phone abroad, the last thing you want is to wind up in your destination with a phone charger that doesn't work with the local outlets. Make sure that you've got the proper travel adapter before you go.

Best Mobile Phone And Sim-only Deals 2023

We've rounded up some great deals on popular mobile phones this month, to help you find the best prices.

With new smartphones launching every week, and stiff competition between the biggest manufacturers and contract providers, there are often deals to be had on the most expensive handsets – including ones from Samsung and iPhone. Whether you choose a pay-as-you-go (PAYG) or a Sim-free deal, or you want a cheap contract to buy a handset now, we'll show you some of the top deals around.

Read our guide to the best smartphones for 2023 to see which handsets impressed, or check out the best and worst mobile providers. 

Best Android phone deals

Android phones have a number of attractive discounts on handsets, so you don't need to spend a fortune on a big brand.

Our pick: Samsung Galaxy S21 FE 5G (original price £699)

6.4-inch (2,340 x 1,080) AMOLED display

Triple rear camera, including 4K recording

5 years of security updates from launch

We like: Has the same processor as the Samsung Galaxy S21

We don't like: Smaller 4,500mAh battery

The Samsung Galaxy S21 FE 5G is the simplified version of the brand's flagship phone from 2021. It already had a cheaper price to match its specs, but multiple retailers are now offering it at a discount. It comes in four different colours, with either 128GB or 256GB of memory, and you can record videos simultaneously using both the selfie and rear cameras.

Check prices below, compare contract deals of the Samsung Galaxy S21 FE 5G or read our Samsung Galaxy S21 FE 5G review.

More Android deals to consider Samsung Galaxy S22 5G (original price £769)

Since the Samsung Galaxy S23 range came out in February, we've seen discounts on last year's powerful Samsung Galaxy S22. It's light, sleek and runs on the Exynos 220 processor with a large 8GB of Ram. You can get it with 128GB or 256GB of memory, and the cameras are full of modes and features for high-detail shots.

Check prices below, compare contract deals of the Samsung Galaxy S22 5G or read our Samsung Galaxy S22 5G review.

Google Pixel 6 Pro (original price £849)

The 2021 Google Pixel 6 range has seen some pretty hefty discounts since the 7 range was launched last October. It's the largest model in the range, with premium camera specs and all-round high specification. The 6.7-inch high resolution screen is spacious, and the phone is fuelled by a large, 5,003mAh battery. 

Check prices below, check contract deals on Google Pixel 6 Pro or read our Google Pixel 6 Pro review. 

Google Pixel 6a (original price £399)

Even the cheapest 6a in the Google Pixel 6 series is currently available at a discount. It's not as powerful as the 6 Pro, but it's still well-equipped, with a bright display, quick processor and 4K video recording. 

Check deals below or compare contract deals. You can also read our review of the Google Pixel 6a. 

Oppo Reno8 Pro (original price £499)

The Oppo Reno8 Pro, released in August 2022, is the premium model in the Oppo Reno8 range, with plenty of features to enjoy, including a large, high-spec screen (6.8-inch, 2,412 x 1,080 AMOLED display), a triple rear camera and 256GB of internal storage. It's compact and light for a premium feel.

See prices below, or check our Oppo Reno8 Pro review.

Best iPhone deals

Discounts on iPhones are rare, but you can get a bargain on older models.

iPhone 14 (original price - £849)

6.1-inch (2,532 x 1,170) Super Retina XDR display

Dual-camera system with a larger sensor

Estimated minimum of 6 years of security updates from launch

We like: Camera upgrades

We don't like: No Dynamic Island notch on the display

We don't often see iPhones make our best deals list, especially on the latest range, but the Apple iPhone 14 is seeing a discount already. It's the standard model in the range, and the cheapest, but it has a number of premium perks. The processor has been upgraded, and the front-facing camera now has autofocus, making it smarter at focusing in pictures. 

It comes in five different colours, with 128GB to 512GB of memory. Cinematic mode now records in 4K, but the cameras aren't as advanced as on the iPhone 14 Pro. 

To find out if it lives up to expectations, check out our iPhone 14 review.

Read our dedicated guide to the best Apple iPhone deals for more expert picks and advice on how and when to buy. 

Best second-hand phone deals

You can get good savings on a smartphone by looking at the second-hand and refurbished market. Below, we've picked out some great deals on second-hand phones that will save you some serious money.

Or check our mobile phone reviews for popular handsets now only available second-hand, and read our guide on how to buy a second-hand or refurbished phone.

Samsung Galaxy M22 (original price around £300, now around £155 second-hand)

We've noticed the Samsung Galaxy M22 popping up in second-hand retailers priced £140-165 for an unlocked device, depending on condition. The mid-range device comes with a 6.4-inch screen and four rear cameras for versatile shots, but it doesn't have 5G. It was released in October 2021, and Samsung will support it with regular security updates until October 2025. 

The cheapest deal we've found in stock for one in a grade B condition is from CEX in black for around £155, which comes with a two-year warranty. Find out the full story in our Samsung Galaxy M22 review.

Also consider these popular phones that can now be found cheaper at multiple second-hand retailers:

Apple iPhone 12 (original price £799, now £329.99 second-hand) With the recent release of the iPhone 14, more and more iPhone 12s are appearing on the second-hand market. You should find them for £300-575, depending on the phone's condition, and the cheapest one in good or grade B condition we found is at iOutlet for around £329.99.

Apple iPhone 12 Pro (original price £1,149, now less than £400 second-hand) The iPhone 12 Pro is an upgrade from the 12, with better cameras. It currently goes for less than half its original price in 'good' second-hand condition. We've seen it on sale for £397 at Music Magpie.

Apple iPhone 13 (original price £799, now less than £500 second-hand). It's newer than the iPhone 12 range and is a sought-after handset, but there's plenty available second-hand. We've seen it on sale for around £485 in 'good' second-hand condition at Music Magpie and Envirofone.

Samsung Galaxy S21 FE (original price £699, now £290 second-hand) This is Samsung's toned-down version of the Galaxy S21, with excellent specs. It was released in January 2022 but is already prominent on the second-hand market for £290-520. It's available in good or grade B condition in olive at CEX for £290.

Find out more on how to make big savings on a second-hand phone.

Mobile phone contract calculator

A key question will be whether you buy outright or on contract. How much each will cost overall can be difficult to work out, so use our calculator below to discover the best deal for you.

Best Sim-only deals

If you're buying a phone outright, you'll need a Sim card. Here's our pick of some of the best low, medium and high-data deals in the sales.

Best low-data Sim-only deals 

You shouldn't pay for data you don't need, so if you're a light user, opt for a cheap monthly contract that gives you the ability to switch around as circumstances change. 

Our Pick: Lebara (Vodafone network) 6GB of data

Lebara offer great deals, especially if you are looking to use your phone abroad. This deal includes 100 International mins to 41 countries, plus no added charge for using your data in the EU or India. Read our Lebara mobile review to see how it fares in our survey.

Other low-data deals to consider

Alternatively, check the low-data deals below for more packages that we think represent good value for money.

Best medium-data Sim-only deals

These deals could be suitable if you use mobile data fairly frequently but don't require large amounts for activities such as HD downloading or streaming.

Our Pick: iD Mobile (Three network) 20GB of data

iD Mobile is a virtual provider owned by Carphone Warehouse. This means it uses another provider's infrastructure to deliver calls, texts and data – in this case Three's. Read our iD Mobile review to see how it fares in our survey.

Other medium-data deals to consider

Alternatively, check the medium-data deals below for more packages that we think represent good value for money.

Best high-data Sim-only deals

A high-data deal is ideal if you're after continuous connectivity, downloading, streaming and hotspot use. These types of deals may require a 12-month contract, so consider how committed you are and how much data you're likely to use. 

Our Pick: Smarty (Three network) 100GB of data

Smarty is including EU roaming in this high-data deal. It's on a one-month contract, so it won't tie you down. Read our Smarty mobile review to see how it fares in our survey.

Other high-data deals to consider

Alternatively, check the high-data deals below for more packages that we think represent good value for money.

Not found one that's quite right for you? Browse all the best Sim-only deals on Which? Mobile Switch.

Pros and cons of buying a mobile phone on a monthly contract

With a traditional monthly contract, you pay a fixed minimum fee by direct debit each month, made up of paying for the phone (usually through a credit agreement, meaning you get credit-checked) and the Sim itself, with an allowance of calls, texts and data. You'll have to commit to a period of time, typically two years. Depending on your plan, there may also be an upfront fee, which is worth considering if you're set on a contract. 

What are the advantages of monthly contracts? 

Free/cheap phones With a monthly contract, you'll get a wide choice of free or subsidised handsets – ideal if you fancy an upgrade. 

Good value Paying in advance for a fixed amount of minutes, texts and data can be much cheaper than topping up a pay-as-you-go phone. 

Hassle-free You'll never get cut off because you've forgotten to top up your credit. 

Can build your credit score Paying off a mobile phone contract monthly can be a good way to build your credit score. Bear in mind that missed payments or defaulting can make your credit score drop. 

Are there any drawbacks with monthly contracts?

There are a few. As mentioned, you may end up paying more overall, so you'll need to weigh this up against the appeal of a lower upfront cost.  

Pay attention to the length of the contract. Most last two years, but some can last three, in order to keep the monthly cost attractive. You should also make a note of when your contract ends. Some providers continue to charge you the full monthly cost, even after your contract has been paid off. 

If you exceed the minutes, messages or data in your bundle, additional charges can be significant. It's especially important to be aware of this while roaming. Most providers now set a default cap to prevent this, but if you remove it in order to continue using your phone, costs can quickly spiral. For more, read our guide on how to keep track of your minutes and data, and our guide on EU roaming and international calls. 

Consider network reception with a great mobile phone deal

Signal is another consideration. If you know a particular network is good in your area, you may want to stick with it but move to a different provider. If it isn't, it could be time to move. 

Here are the core networks the virtual providers use:

EE BT Mobile, Plusnet Mobile, Utility Warehouse

O2 Giffgaff, Sky Mobile, Tesco Mobile, Lycamobile, Virgin Mobile

Vodafone Asda Mobile, Lebara, Talkmobile, Voxi

Three ID Mobile, Smarty

When it's time to switch mobile phone provider

If all else fails, it might be time to switch. Outside the big four – EE, O2, Three and Vodafone – a wide range of operators are now competing for your business, and some offer great-value Sim-only deals. Switching is easy, and you should be able to keep your old number.

Arming yourself with a price you could get elsewhere is an important haggling tactic. Compare mobile phone contracts and Sim-only deals to find out how much you could be paying.

Smaller mobile networks consistently do better than the big four in our mobile networks survey. Read our guide to the best and worst UK mobile networks to find out more.

How to get the best mobile phone deal on popular brands

Generally, you'll find the best deals on mobile phones at retailers such as Amazon, Currys and John Lewis, rather than on the manufacturer's website. However, knowing when sales are on for specific mobile phone brands can be useful if you're trying to find the best deal on a specific model you want. 

iPhone deals

It's notoriously tricky to bag an iPhone on a budget – and when they do have discounts, they're usually smaller than on Android devices. They hold their value better than older Androids, so you often see them on the second-hand market.

However, if you look in the right place at the right time, you can get some money off. Retailers such as Amazon and Argos occasionally bring their prices down, although make sure you're buying a new rather than a refurbished handset.

New iPhones usually launch in September, so the end of the year is a good time to look for the previous models, particularly as the Black Friday and Christmas sales roll in.

Apple also offers a trade-in scheme, so you can knock the price of a new handset down slightly if you're upgrading from an older iPhone.

Browse all our iPhone reviews to see how all Apple handsets scored in our lab tests.

Google mobile phone deals

Google launches its flagship phones in October, so it's worth putting a Pixel on your shortlist late in the year.

You'll see the best bargains on older handsets, but even more recent phones can get some early discounts at major retailers such as Carphone Warehouse and Laptops Direct.

See if it's worth investing in a Pixel by reading our Google Pixel reviews. 

Samsung mobile phone deals

If you're after a discounted Samsung Galaxy, you might be tempted by some of the reasonably priced handsets in its A, J and M ranges. Mid-range models have come on leaps and bounds over the past few years, and spending £300-400 can get you a slim, stylish, powerful model that may not look too different from a high-end version.

If you have your eyes on the premium prize, though, it could be worth holding out for a top-of-the-range Galaxy S or Note series. The Samsung S series usually launches in the first quarter of the year, with the first discounts on the latest handsets beginning in the summer. It's worth keeping an eye out on Amazon Prime Day in July.

Phones in the Note range tend to launch in August, so new models are ripe for a decent discount when Black Friday rolls around. If you miss out, the Boxing Day sales are a good time to buy, too.

We've reviewed more than 40 Galaxy phones. Pick your perfect model in all our Samsung phone reviews.

Mobile phones and security updates

Deals on phones are easier to find when they've been on the market for a while, but depending on the brand and handset, this could mean they won't be receiving security updates for much longer. Check our security update calculator for models you're interested in buying. See our guide to mobile phone security  for more.

What's Cheaper To Use When Traveling: A Local SIM Card Or An International Phone Plan?

For many people, being able to stay connected with family and friends while traveling abroad is crucial. One common dilemma faced by travelers is whether to use their phone's international data plan or purchase a local SIM card abroad. Both options have their advantages and disadvantages, and understanding them can help you make an informed decision based on your specific needs. 

As one Redditor shares, "I was planning on using the Verizon international plan, which was something like $15 a day. When I arrived, my phone crashed." 

The user then resorted to buying a local SIM card, which worked just as well and cost less money. "I was there for 10 days and the phone and SIM card ended up being much cheaper than the plan would have been," writes the user, adding, "Local sim cards are cheap, they work well, and they may even work better than your international plan." 

Let's explore the pros and cons of each option to determine whether SIM cards or international phone plans reign supreme.

Power Up: 8 Tips and Tricks To Maximize Your Cellphone's Battery Life

If, after weighing the pros and cons, you decide you'd like to go with the local SIM card option, there are typically several places where you can buy one while abroad, including: 

Airport Kiosks or Stores: Many international airports have kiosks or stores operated by local mobile service providers. These outlets specialize in catering to travelers and often offer SIM cards with various data and call packages. While convenient, keep in mind that prices at airports may be slightly higher compared to other locations.

Mobile Network Stores: Look for stores or authorized retailers of local mobile network operators in the city or town you're visiting. These stores typically offer a wide range of SIM card options, prepaid plans, and top-up services. They can also provide assistance with selecting the most suitable plan for your needs, helping you switch your SIM card out, and ensure your phone will be compatible with it. 

Convenience Stores and Supermarkets: In some countries, you may find SIM cards available for purchase at convenience stores, supermarkets, or electronics stores. These establishments will often also have dedicated sections or counters for mobile services, including SIM cards and prepaid plans.

Resellers or Third-Party Vendors: You may come across mobile resellers or independent vendors who specialize in selling SIM cards for multiple network operators. These can be found in popular tourist areas, markets, or shopping districts. Be sure to exercise caution with these types of vendors and ensure their legitimacy by verifying that the SIM cards they sell are authorized by the respective mobile operators.

The decision of whether it's better to upgrade your cellphone's plan to include international travel or purchase a local SIM card will depend on the individual traveler's specific needs, the duration of their travel, and where they're traveling to. 

If convenience is a priority, an international data plan may be the better option. However, for cost-conscious individuals looking for flexibility and better connectivity, a local SIM card can provide a more affordable option. 

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