If you have a GSM phone in Australia, it may work in the United States, as both countries use similar frequencies for 3G/4G networks. However, you must make sure that your phone is unlocked and has a SIM card slot that can fit a US SIM card.
You can use your mobile, tablet or any other device if your telco has an agreement with an overseas network. This is 'international roaming'. The cost of using international roaming for voice calls, texts or data can be very high, resulting in bill shock.
Using your phone in the USA
Australian mobile phones that support 4G or 5G should work on US networks, but you may need to check with your phone manufacturer to be sure. Older Australian 2G and 3G handsets operate on a GSM standard, whereas the US 2G and 3G networks operate on GSM and CDMA.
International, e-sim cards and local prepaid sim cards for the USA only work in unlocked phones. If you are not sure if your phone is locked/unlocked ask your provider in your home country before your trip to the USA.
In the same vein, an international sim card has the same functionality as a normal sim card but can be used worldwide. An international sim card allows you to switch between domestic and foreign numbers, so that you and the people communicating with you, don't have to spend extra to call or text you.
You need to have a global unlocked phone before you even consider using a local SIM card at your destinations overseas. A global, unlocked phone will allow you to seamlessly switch out SIM cards from different phone companies. Locked phones require you to use a SIM card from your carrier, e.g., AT&T.
Get an International SIM Card
An international SIM card is a SIM that you can use worldwide. When you switch countries, the international SIM will generate a new, local number for your phone, allowing you to text, call, and use data over a local network.
SimCorner is Australia's most trusted supplier of prepaid USA travel SIM cards, which is why when you're pre-purchasing with us, you can have peace of mind on any trip overseas.
Of course, international SIM is more convenient if you usually travel abroad and visit various countries on a trip. Therefore, the price is also higher than local SIM cards. Thus, we always recommend buying a SIM card at the destination whenever you are travelling to Europe or the US.
Prepurchase an eSIM Data Plan (Easiest)
The easiest way to buy a data plan for the US is to buy an eSIM data plan because you can activate it instantly so you don't have to pay for shipping. All you have to do is buy the service and then activate it once you're in the US.
International Roaming means you can travel abroad while continuing to use your mobile service in eligible destinations. No SIM swapping required to use data or to call and text with your Australian mobile number.
First, you'll need to contact your mobile service provider and let them know about your plans to move abroad. They will be able to tell you what options are available for keeping your current phone number, and any fees or additional charges that may apply.
The best travel SIM for data that doesn't expire is the Keepgo Lifetime World SIM card. Australia Post International Roaming SIM offers the most affordable prepaid option and the best postpaid mobile plan is the Vodafone international roaming plan. The best travel SIM for Europe is the SimCorner Europe eSIM.
International roaming is the ability to use your device outside of Australia without needing to change your number (SIM). International roaming options will depend on your plan which you can check through My Optus app. International roaming enables you to send/receive calls and texts, use data while overseas.
Yes, you can use the same handset & SIM in any foreign country.
You can get an American SIM card for as little as 1 USD up to 59 USD (sold with a plan). SIM cards are widely available in the official stores of the mobile operators (like AT&T & T-Mobile) or resellers (like Best Buy or Target). Various international airports, like Los Angeles, Miami & New York, sell SIM cards too.
Reach out to your wireless provider and authorize daily roaming to the U.S., and all you have to do after that is use your device while travelling. Your phone automatically connects to an American cellular partner, and you can use your wireless data or make a call anywhere in the U.S. or Canada.
Currently, you can purchase prepaid internet SIM cards for the USA in several ways. First of all, you can purchase one through online stores. These prepaid SIM cards from online providers will mainly offer Mobile internet for the USA from local cellular providers such as AT&T and T-Mobile.
A prepaid Subscriber Identity Module or SIM card stores connection information, and allows cell phones to connect to a wireless mobile network. A prepaid SIM card is purchased for a set amount that acts as a credit balance with the provider.
Use Wi-Fi. One of the easiest ways to avoid international roaming charges is to connect to Wi-Fi networks. Most hotels, cafes, and restaurants offer free Wi-Fi. You can also purchase a portable Wi-Fi device or use a local SIM card that includes data usage.
You need to understand that when you replace your SIM card, you'll automatically be getting a new phone number since cell phone numbers are actually associated with the SIM cards and not the individual phones. You should hold on to your existing SIM and simply pop it back in when you get back home.