Quick answer: US carrier international day passes run $5-12 per day (T-Mobile ~$5, AT&T and Verizon ~$10-12) — and that's per day, every day you use data abroad. A single-country travel eSIM covers a whole week or month for a flat, one-time price instead. For example, a 5GB / 30-day eSIM for a single European country starts around $8.90 — less than one day of AT&T or Verizon roaming.
- Carrier day passes are billed per 24 hours, so a 7-day trip can mean 7 separate charges.
- A travel eSIM is a flat price for your whole trip, not a daily fee.
- Your phone number and physical SIM stay exactly where they are — the eSIM only carries data.
- Install it at home over Wi-Fi before you fly; it only starts counting when you connect abroad.
Before a trip abroad, most travelers face the same choice: pay their carrier's roaming day pass, or hunt for a local SIM after landing. We looked at what the three biggest US carriers actually charge for international roaming in 2026 — and compared it to the cost of a dedicated travel eSIM for the same trip.
What US carriers charge for international roaming (2026)
Carrier pricing changes over time, so always confirm current rates on your carrier's own site before you travel. Here's what the major plans look like today:
| Carrier | Plan | Price |
|---|---|---|
| T-Mobile | International Day Pass | ~$5 / day used |
| AT&T | International Day Pass | ~$10-12 / day used |
| Verizon | TravelPass | ~$10-12 / day (185+ countries) |
The math that catches people off guard
Day passes are charged for every day you actually use data — not just the days you planned. A one-week trip where you check maps, messages and photos daily can rack up 7 separate day-pass charges. At AT&T or Verizon's ~$10-12/day, that's $70-84 for a single week — before you've spent a cent on the trip itself.
The alternative: a destination eSIM, one flat price
A travel eSIM works differently: you buy a fixed amount of data for a fixed number of days, once, before you leave. No daily meter running. Your physical SIM and phone number stay untouched — the eSIM only carries data, so calls, texts and WhatsApp all work exactly as before.
A few real examples from our current pricing (data-only, USD):
- Spain eSIM — 5GB / 30 days: $8.90
- France eSIM — 5GB / 30 days: $8.90
- Japan eSIM — check current plans for exact pricing
- Europe eSIM (39 countries) — 5GB / 30 days: $12.90
That single $8.90 plan covers your entire trip — compared to one day of AT&T or Verizon roaming. Browse all 190+ destinations to find your trip.
How it works
- Install before you fly, at home on Wi-Fi. You'll get a QR code by email — scan it and the eSIM installs in a couple of minutes.
- Turn the eSIM line on and leave Data Roaming enabled for that line.
- Keep your primary line on for calls and texts, but set cellular data to the eSIM.
- Land and connect. Your plan's validity starts on first connection abroad, not at purchase — so installing early costs you nothing.
Not sure if your phone supports eSIM? Check Device Compatibility before you buy.
FAQ
Will I lose my phone number if I use an eSIM?
No. Your physical SIM stays in the phone and keeps your number for calls and texts. The eSIM only carries data.
Can I make calls on the eSIM?
CometSIM plans are data-only. Calls and texts run on your home line, or over WhatsApp/FaceTime as usual.
What if my trip changes dates?
Validity starts when you first connect at your destination, not when you buy — so there's no rush and no wasted days.
Can I get a refund if I don't use it?
Yes — a full refund is available within 180 days if the eSIM was never installed.
If your last trip came with a roaming surprise on your bill, it's worth checking your destination's eSIM price before your next one.