AT&T international data, roaming and calling plans
AT&T, founded in 1983 in Dallas, Texas, is one of the largest telecommunications companies in the world. While it began as a simple phone service provider, AT&T has since expanded into a global communications leader, offering services that include mobile data (e.g., the AT&T international data plan), voice plans, broadband, and even digital TV. Today, AT&T serves millions of customers across the U.S. and internationally, making it a top choice for anyone needing reliable connectivity.
If you find it challenging to manage data roaming on AT&T networks, this article is for you. It’s particularly relevant for frequent travelers, digital nomads, business professionals, or anyone who needs seamless international data access or calling services without the high costs of roaming.
By increasing your understanding of AT&T international data & calling plans, you can avoid unexpected charges and enjoy your travels with peace of mind. In this guide, we’ll break down all the options, including key features like the AT&T International Data Pass. We’ll also cover AT&T international data rates for pay-per-use services, prepaid international plans for budget-conscious users, and additional roaming and international calling options.
AT&T offers a variety of international calling plans that allow users to call friends, family, and business contacts directly from the U.S. to other countries at affordable rates. Whether you need data for traveling abroad or calling plans to stay connected with loved ones overseas, AT&T has flexible solutions.
What is an AT&T international data plan?
AT&T’s international data plans allow customers to stay connected while traveling abroad by providing mobile data for internet usage, apps, and more. These plans are designed to ensure seamless connectivity in various countries, making it easier to access email, social media, maps, and other essential tools without relying on local Wi-Fi.
In addition to offering international data plans for travelers, AT&T provides a range of international calling options directly from the U.S. Customers can choose prepaid packages or monthly calling plans that allow unlimited or discounted calls to numerous countries worldwide, including popular destinations like Mexico, Canada, and Europe.
Key features of AT&T international data plans
AT&T’s international data plans offer several flexible options to help you stay connected abroad. Here’s what you need to know.
Cost
The AT&T International Day Pass is one of the most popular options and costs $12 per day for a single line, with additional lines at $6/day. Charges are capped at ten days per billing cycle, meaning you won’t pay more than $120 per line. For lighter users, pay-per-use rates are available at $2.05 per MB (megabytes). However, this is only ideal for those with minimal data needs, as fees can add up really fast.
Data volume
With the International Day Pass, you can use the same amount of data as your domestic plan, whether it’s a few gigabytes or unlimited. For more controlled usage, AT&T offers prepaid international plans like their 5GB of data add-on for $35. This allows you to manage your spending upfront and avoid surprises, but the amount of data you get is quite small. These prepaid options are ideal for shorter trips or when you don’t need constant connectivity.
Coverage
Ease of activation
Activating any AT&T international plans is straightforward. You can enable the International Day Pass via the myAT&T app or on the AT&T website before your trip. If you forget, it will automatically activate when you use your phone abroad.
No action is needed for pay-per-use rates. These plans are automatically applied when you use data without an active plan. For prepaid international plans, simply purchase and activate through the AT&T website or app.
Alternatively, you can always top up your AT&T phone with BOSS Revolution whenever you need more data or airtime. It’s a great option for ensuring you never run out of service.
Types of AT&T international data plans
AT&T offers several international data plans to meet different travel needs. Each is tailored to different usage patterns and destinations.
AT&T International Day Pass
As noted earlier, the International Day Pass is perfect for travelers who want to use their domestic plan abroad. For $12 per day, you get access to your data, talk, and text in over 210 countries. Also, you’re only charged on the days you use your phone, and costs are capped at ten days per billing cycle. That means you’ll only pay a maximum of $120 per cycle, which is good for controlling costs.
AT&T Passport
The AT&T Passport plan is designed for travelers who need a fixed data allowance. It comes in two options: 2GB for $70 or 6GB for $140. Along with data, you get unlimited outgoing texts and discounted calls at $0.35 per minute. The plan is also valid for 30 days and ends automatically unless you renew it.
While the AT&T Passport isn’t available to customers with unlimited plans, it offers a reliable alternative to the International Day Pass or pay-per-use options. It offers more predictable costs.
AT&T Pay-Per-Use International
As previously noted, AT&T’s pay-per-use option allows you to pay only for what you use. Data is charged at $2.05 per MB, while calls range from $1 to $3 per minute, depending on your location. Texts are $0.50 each, with picture and video messages costing $1.30. So, as you can probably imagine, these costs can add up quickly if you rely on your phone for heavier activities like streaming or frequent calls.
The pay-per-use international plan is more suited for people or travelers who use their phones sparingly.
AT&T Cruise Packages
AT&T offers two cruise packages to keep you connected while at sea, which are the Cruise Basic and Cruise Plus packages.
Costs $60 for 30 days. Provides 100MB of data, unlimited texting, and 100 minutes of talk time (with calls charged at $1 per minute after the limit).
It’s $100 for 30 days and offers 1GB of data, unlimited texting, and unlimited talk.
These plans are especially valuable if you need consistent communication at sea without relying on costly roaming. As noted earlier, both plans are available on over 175 cruise ships, so you can stay connected even on extended voyages.
Prepaid international data plans
Note that AT&T also offers prepaid international data plans, which are ideal for travelers who want to control their spending without long-term commitments. These plans provide flexibility and ensure you stay connected abroad without worrying about surprise charges.
One option is the AT&T Prepaid International Travel Add-On for $35, which includes unlimited talk, text, and 5GB of data for seven days. It allows calls and texts within select countries and to the US. To activate the add-on, just reply to the text message AT&T sends you upon arriving at your destination.
AT&T international data rates
AT&T offers a range of international data options and rates depending on your needs and usage. Below is a comparison of the key options and prices available to you.
| Plan | Cost | Data | Coverage | Benefits |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| International Day Pass | $12/day | Uses domestic plan | 210+ countries | Capped at ten days per billing cycle. Includes talk, text, and data. |
| Pay-Per-Use | $2.05/MB | Pay as you go | Most countries | Best for minimal use due to the higher costs with heavy data consumption. |
| Prepaid International Travel Add-On | $35/7 days | 5GB + unlimited talk & text | Select countries | Ideal for short-term trips with controlled spending. |
| AT&T Passport | $70 for 2GB or $140 for 6GB | 2GB/6GB | Select countries | Includes unlimited texts and discounted calls ($0.35/min). Ends after 30 days. |
| Cruise Packages | $60 to $100 | 100MB to 1GB | 175+ cruise ships | Ideal for travelers at sea. Texting is included. Unlimited calls with Cruise Plus. |
Remember, you can top up any AT&T number in the USA or Mexico using BOSS Revolution. This ensures that you stay connected seamlessly, no matter where you are, while also taking advantage of exclusive offers and flexible payment options.
How to activate AT&T international data plans
You can use the following steps to activate your AT&T international data plan.
Step 1: Sign in
Log into your account using the myAT&T app or by visiting the AT&T website at att.com.
Step 2: Select your plan
In the app, go to Profile, then choose My Plan. Scroll to the International Plan section and select your preferred option.
Step 3: Activate
Confirm your selection and the plan will automatically activate whenever you use data, send a text message, or make a call in a supported country. No need to re-enable for future trips unless deactivated.
How much does AT&T international data cost?
AT&T provides a range of options to meet various user needs. The International Day Pass is priced at $12 per day for one line, with additional lines costing $6 per day. This allows you access to your domestic data, talk, and text in over 210 countries.
For travelers who don’t need daily access, the pay-per-use option charges $2.05 per MB for data, with calls and texts billed separately. Alternatively, the Prepaid International Travel Add-On offers 5GB of data plus unlimited talk and text for $35. This add-on is valid for seven days, making it ideal for short-term trips or controlled usage.
Additionally, to avoid unnecessary data charges, make sure to turn off data roaming when not in use, as background apps can trigger fees. Disable auto-play for videos on social media and avoid streaming services like Data Free TV, which doesn’t apply outside the US. If you’re visiting a destination not included in your plan, remember that pay-per-use rates will apply.
For the most up-to-date pricing and plan details, visit att.com or check the myAT&T app before your trip.
What countries are included in AT&T's international data plans?
AT&T offers a variety of international data plans, each with extensive coverage. The International Day Pass covers over 210 countries, including popular destinations like Canada, Mexico, Europe, and parts of Latin America and Asia. Other options, like the Prepaid International Travel Add-On and AT&T Passport, also offer coverage in select regions. For the most accurate and up-to-date information, check AT&T’s website to see if your destination is included.
Can I use my unlimited data plan abroad?
Yes! With the International Day Pass, you can use your unlimited data plan while traveling internationally. This ensures that your data, talk, and text allowances function just as they do at home.
However, keep in mind that if you exceed 22GB of usage in a billing cycle, your data speeds may be reduced in certain countries. In other words, you’ll remain connected to the internet, but performance may vary after reaching that threshold. It’s similar to AT&T’s domestic policy on unlimited plans.
AT&T international calling plans
AT&T’s international calling options allow you to make unlimited or discounted calls from the U.S. to over 225 countries. Whether you choose a monthly plan or a prepaid option, AT&T provides flexibility to meet different needs.
Customers can choose between the following:
For those who need to make frequent calls from the U.S. to other countries, the AT&T International Calling Plan offers a comprehensive solution. This plan allows for unlimited calling from the U.S. to over 85 countries, including popular destinations in Europe, Latin America, and Asia. Additionally, customers receive discounted rates for over 140 other countries. At a cost of $15 per month per line, this plan is ideal for staying in touch with loved ones or business contacts abroad without worrying about high per-minute charges.
Perfect for customers who frequently call Mexico, Canada and other North America countries the AT&T Unlimited North America Plan offers unlimited calling to these countries. It ensures that users can stay connected with friends, family, or colleagues in these regions without any additional fees. This plan is a valuable add-on for anyone looking to simplify their international communication within North America.
This plan includes unlimited calls from the U.S. to over 50 countries and territories, such as Canada, Mexico, Puerto Rico, and other regions like Guam and the U.S. Virgin Islands. It also provides low per-minute rates for calls to additional countries, including Greece, Croatia, and the Philippines. This is a suitable option for users seeking comprehensive international coverage from their home phone.
For those who prefer not to commit to a monthly plan, AT&T provides a Pay-Per-Use option. This flexible solution charges users based on their usage, with rates starting at $1 per minute for calls to Mexico and Canada, and increasing up to $3 per minute for other international destinations. This option is ideal for occasional international callers who want the freedom to pay only for what they use.
AT&T also offers international calling solutions for landline users. The AT&T Landline Long Distance Plans allow customers to make international calls from their home phones at reduced rates. These plans are designed for users who prefer using their landline for consistent and reliable international communication.
| Plan feature | AT&T International Calling Plan | AT&T Unlimited North America | AT&T Phone International Plus II | AT&T Pay-Per-Use International Rates | AT&T Landline Long Distance Plans | BOSS Revolution |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Plan Type | Monthly subscription with unlimited calls to 85 countries and discounts for 140+ others | Unlimited calls to Mexico and Canada | Unlimited calls to 50+ countries; reduced rates for other destinations | Pay-per-use with rates from $1 to $3 per minute | Reduced rates for landline users | Pay-as-you-go and monthly discount plans for flexibility |
| Rates | $15/month per line; discounted rates vary by country | Included AT&T Unlimited plans | Unlimited for 50+ countries; per-minute rates for others | $1-$3 per minute based on destination | Variable rates per country | Rates as low as $0.01 per minute; optional $5/month 20% discount plan |
| Coverage | 85 countries unlimited; 140+ with discounted rates | Canada, Mexico, Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands, Guam, and the Northern Mariana Islands | 50+ countries unlimited; other countries at low rates | Global coverage based on rates | Most international destinations | Over 190 countries with tailored rates and unlimited plans |
| Flexibility | Requires subscription for unlimited; pay-per-use available | Automatically included for mobile customers | Subscription required; includes unlimited and discounted options | No subscription needed; automatic usage-based billing | Subscription needed for discounted rates | Flexible top-up options with no contract; pay-as-you-go plans available |
| Activation | Add through the AT&T website or app | Automatically activated for eligible plans | Activated through AT&T’s digital phone services | No activation needed; billed based on use | Requires customer service setup | Instant activation via BOSS Revolution app |
| Additional benefits | Seamless integration with AT&T mobile accounts | Seamless integration for North American calls | Flexible options for specific international regions | No setup required | Combines with other AT&T landline features | Bonus credits; special offers; no expiration on prepaid balances; top-up available |
Sources: all third party information obtained from applicable website as of October 9, 2024
- https://www.att.com/international/ (October 9, 2024)
- https://www.att.com/international/day-pass/ (October 9, 2024)
- https://www.att.com/support/article/wireless/KM1008877/ (October 9, 2024)
- https://www.att.com/international/pay-per-use-rates/ (October 9, 2024)
- https://www.att.com/international/cruise-packages/ (October 9, 2024)
- https://www.att.com/prepaid/international-calling/ (October 9, 2024)
- https://www.att.com/international/day-pass/ (October 9, 2024)
- https://www.att.com/support/article/wireless/KM1008877/ (October 9, 2024)
- https://www.att.com/international/cruise-packages/ (October 9, 2024)
- https://www.att.com/prepaid/international-calling/ (October 9, 2024)
- https://www.att.com/international/long-distance/ (October 9, 2024)
- https://www.att.com/support/article/u-verse-voice/KM1045248/ (October 9, 2024)
- https://www.att.com/home-phone/landline/ (October 9, 2024)
This article is provided for general information purposes only and is not intended to address every aspect of the matters discussed herein. The information in this article is not intended as specific personal advice. The information in this article does not constitute legal, tax, regulatory or other professional advice from IDT Payment Services, Inc. and its affiliates (collectively, “IDT”), and should not be taken or used as such by any individual. IDT makes no representation, warranty or guaranty, whether express or implied, that the content in this article is current, accurate, or complete. You should obtain professional or other substantive advice before taking, or refraining from, any action on the basis of the information in this article.
