Can I Use My AT&T Phone in Europe? (2026 Complete Guide)

Last Updated: January 2026 • Read Time: 8 Minutes

If you’re planning a trip to Europe, one of the first questions you’ll probably ask is:

“Will my AT&T phone work in Europe?”

The good news is that, for most travellers, the answer is yes.

Modern AT&T smartphones are designed to work internationally and can connect to mobile networks throughout Europe. Whether you’re exploring Paris, cruising through the Greek Islands, hiking in Switzerland or travelling by train across Italy, your existing phone will usually work without needing to buy a new device.

However, there are a few important things to check before you leave the United States, including whether your phone is unlocked, whether it supports eSIM technology and which option will give you the best value while you’re overseas.

This guide explains everything you need to know before travelling with your AT&T phone.

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Quick Answer

Yes, you can use your AT&T phone in Europe.

Most recent iPhones, Samsung Galaxy devices, Google Pixel phones and many Motorola smartphones purchased through AT&T support the mobile networks used throughout Europe.

If your phone is carrier unlocked and supports eSIM technology, you can also install a Europe eSIM, allowing you to keep your AT&T number while using prepaid mobile data throughout your trip.

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Will Every AT&T Phone Work?

Almost all smartphones sold by AT&T over the last several years are capable of working in Europe.

Popular compatible devices include:

• Apple iPhone XS and newer.
• Apple iPhone SE (2nd Generation and newer).
• Samsung Galaxy S20, S21, S22, S23, S24 and newer.
• Samsung Galaxy Fold and Flip devices.
• Google Pixel 3 and newer.
• Many newer Motorola smartphones.

If your phone is several years old, it’s still worth checking its compatibility before you travel.

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Do I Need to Unlock My AT&T Phone?

This depends on how you plan to stay connected.

If you intend to use only AT&T’s international roaming service, you generally won’t need to unlock your phone.

However, if you’d like to install a Europe eSIM from another provider, your phone will usually need to be carrier unlocked.

Before purchasing an eSIM, it’s a good idea to confirm your device’s unlock status with AT&T.

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What If My Phone Supports Dual SIM?

Many modern smartphones now support Dual SIM, which is one of the easiest ways to stay connected while travelling.

This allows you to:

• Keep your AT&T SIM active.
• Continue receiving calls and text messages.
• Add a Europe eSIM for mobile data.
• Use both services at the same time.

For many travellers, this provides the perfect balance between convenience and flexibility.

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Why So Many Travellers Use Their Phone Constantly in Europe

Years ago, a mobile phone was mainly used for calls.

Today, it’s your:

• GPS.
• Travel guide.
• Train ticket.
• Hotel reservation.
• Translator.
• Restaurant finder.
• Boarding pass.
• Camera.
• Travel wallet.

Having reliable mobile data throughout your trip makes travelling around Europe significantly easier.

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What Can You Do With Your AT&T Phone in Europe?

Once connected, your phone can help you:

• Navigate unfamiliar cities using Google Maps.
• Book museum tickets.
• Check rail timetables.
• Order taxis.
• Use WhatsApp and FaceTime.
• Upload holiday photos.
• Access banking apps.
• Find nearby restaurants and attractions.

Whether you’re travelling independently or on a guided tour, your smartphone quickly becomes one of your most valuable travel tools.

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What You’ll Learn in This Guide

In the following sections we’ll cover:

• How AT&T phones connect to European networks.
• Locked versus unlocked phones.
• How Dual SIM works.
• Whether you should use AT&T roaming or a Europe eSIM.
• The best option for different types of travellers.
• Frequently asked questions before you leave.

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How Your AT&T Phone Works in Europe

One of the biggest misconceptions travellers have is that American phones don’t work in Europe.

That may have been true many years ago, but today’s smartphones are designed to operate on mobile networks around the world.

When you arrive in Europe, your AT&T phone automatically searches for a compatible partner network. Within a few moments, you’ll usually see the local carrier’s signal appear on your screen, allowing you to continue using your phone.

The exact network your phone connects to varies depending on the country you’re visiting, but from your perspective the process is automatic.

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Do European Mobile Networks Support AT&T Phones?

Yes.

Europe has extensive 4G LTE and rapidly expanding 5G coverage, and modern AT&T smartphones are built to support the radio frequencies used throughout most European countries.

This means your phone can usually connect without requiring any special settings or additional hardware.

Whether you’re travelling through:

• France
• Italy
• Spain
• Germany
• Switzerland
• Austria
• Portugal
• Greece
• The Netherlands
• Croatia

your AT&T phone should be able to connect to a supported local network.

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What About 5G?

If your AT&T phone supports 5G, you’ll often be able to access 5G services in Europe where they are available.

Actual speeds depend on several factors, including:

• The country you’re visiting.
• The local mobile network.
• Your location.
• Network congestion.
• Your roaming or eSIM provider.

Even when 5G isn’t available, Europe has widespread 4G LTE coverage that provides excellent performance for navigation, video calls, social media and streaming.

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What Is Dual SIM?

Dual SIM is one of the most useful features for international travellers.

Instead of replacing your AT&T SIM card, your phone can operate with two mobile services at the same time.

A typical setup looks like this:

AT&T SIM	Europe eSIM
Your US phone number	Mobile data
Voice calls	Google Maps
SMS messages	WhatsApp
Verification codes	Travel apps

This allows you to keep using your familiar AT&T number while taking advantage of affordable prepaid mobile data throughout Europe.

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Does My Phone Need to Be Unlocked?

This is one of the most important things to check before purchasing a Europe eSIM.

If you intend to use only AT&T’s international roaming service, your phone generally doesn’t need to be unlocked.

However, if you want to install a Europe eSIM from another provider, your phone will usually need to be carrier unlocked.

If you’re unsure, check your device’s unlock status before travelling.

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Can I Keep My AT&T Number?

Yes.

One of the biggest advantages of Dual SIM technology is that you don’t need to give up your existing phone number.

You can continue receiving:

• Phone calls.
• SMS messages.
• Bank verification codes.
• Security authentication messages.

Meanwhile, your Europe eSIM handles your mobile internet connection.

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What Happens When You Cross Borders?

One of the best parts about travelling in Europe is how easy it is to move between countries.

You might start your trip in France, take a train into Switzerland, continue to Italy and finish in Austria.

If you’re using a Europe eSIM, your phone automatically switches to a supported local network as you cross each border.

You don’t need to buy another SIM card every time you enter a new country.

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Common Mistakes Before Travelling

Most connectivity problems can be avoided with a little preparation.

Before leaving the United States, make sure you:

• Check whether your phone supports eSIM.
• Confirm your phone is unlocked if required.
• Install your Europe eSIM before departure.
• Update your phone’s software.
• Download offline maps.
• Save copies of important travel documents.

These simple steps can save valuable time once you arrive in Europe.

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How Will You Use Your Phone Every Day?

Most travellers are surprised by how often they use their phone overseas.

A typical day might include:

• Checking train departure times.
• Using Google Maps to find your hotel.
• Booking attraction tickets.
• Finding highly rated restaurants.
• Ordering an Uber or local taxi.
• Messaging family back home.
• Uploading photos to social media.
• Using translation apps.

Reliable mobile data quickly becomes an essential part of every travel day.

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AT&T Roaming or Europe eSIM?

If your phone works in Europe—and most AT&T phones do—the next decision is how you want it to connect.

You can continue using AT&T’s international roaming service, install a Europe eSIM or combine both using Dual SIM.

For many travellers, using a Europe eSIM alongside their AT&T service provides the greatest flexibility, particularly when travelling through multiple countries.

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What’s the Best Way to Use Your AT&T Phone in Europe?

Once you’ve confirmed your AT&T phone will work in Europe, the next decision is how you want to stay connected.

Today, American travellers have several options, each with its own advantages depending on the length of the trip, the number of countries you’ll visit and how much mobile data you expect to use.

The five most common choices are:

1. Use AT&T International Roaming.
2. Install a Europe eSIM.
3. Buy a local European SIM card.
4. Rent a Pocket WiFi device.
5. Rely on public Wi-Fi.

Let’s compare each option.

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Option 1: Continue Using AT&T International Roaming

The easiest solution is to continue using your AT&T service exactly as you do at home.

Your phone automatically connects to AT&T’s partner networks throughout Europe, allowing you to continue making calls, sending messages and accessing mobile data.

Advantages

• No additional setup required.
• Keep your existing AT&T phone number.
• Works immediately after landing.
• Ideal for short trips.

Things to Consider

• Roaming costs may increase on longer holidays.
• Heavy mobile data users may prefer a prepaid option.
• Always understand your international roaming plan before departure.

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Option 2: Install a Europe eSIM

If your AT&T phone supports eSIM technology, this is one of the simplest and most flexible travel solutions available.

A Europe eSIM allows your phone to connect directly to supported local networks across more than 30 European countries.

Instead of replacing your AT&T SIM, you simply add another mobile connection.

Your setup might look like this:

AT&T SIM	Europe eSIM
Calls	Mobile Data
SMS	Google Maps
Verification Codes	Travel Apps
US Phone Number	WhatsApp & FaceTime

Advantages

• Coverage across 30+ European countries.
• No physical SIM card.
• Install before you leave home.
• Excellent for multi-country holidays.
• Predictable prepaid pricing.

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Option 3: Buy a Local European SIM Card

Another option is to purchase a local SIM card after arriving in Europe.

This approach can work well if you’re staying in a single country for an extended period, but it’s less convenient for shorter holidays.

You’ll usually need to:

• Find a mobile phone retailer.
• Compare unfamiliar prepaid plans.
• Present identification.
• Replace your AT&T SIM card.
• Configure your phone.

For travellers visiting several countries, a Europe eSIM is generally the more convenient choice.

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Option 4: Pocket WiFi

Pocket WiFi devices create a portable wireless hotspot that several devices can share.

While they can be useful for families or business groups, they also introduce another device to carry throughout your trip.

Advantages

• Connect multiple devices.
• No need to change SIM cards.
• Useful for tablets and laptops.

Disadvantages

• Rental costs.
• Must carry another device.
• Needs daily charging.
• May incur replacement charges if lost.

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Option 5: Public Wi-Fi

Free Wi-Fi is widely available throughout Europe in hotels, cafés, restaurants, airports and some public spaces.

While useful for occasional browsing, it isn’t ideal as your only source of internet access.

Limitations include:

• Coverage isn’t always available.
• Speeds vary considerably.
• Open networks may not be secure.
• No connectivity while exploring cities.

If you regularly access banking, email or work systems, consider using Roamzy Secure™ Travel VPN whenever you’re connected to public Wi-Fi.

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AT&T Roaming vs Europe eSIM

Feature	AT&T Roaming	Europe eSIM
Keep Your US Number	✔	✔ (Dual SIM)
Works Across Europe	✔	✔ 30+ Countries
Install Before Departure	Not Required	✔
Prepaid Mobile Data	Depends on Plan	✔
Ideal for Multi-Country Trips	Good	Excellent
Physical SIM Changes	No	No

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Overall Comparison

Option	Convenience	Value	Best For
Europe eSIM	★★★★★	★★★★★	Most Travellers
AT&T Roaming	★★★★★	★★★☆☆	Short Trips
Local SIM Card	★★★☆☆	★★★★☆	Long Single-Country Stays
Pocket WiFi	★★☆☆☆	★★★☆☆	Families with Multiple Devices
Public Wi-Fi Only	★☆☆☆☆	★★★★★	Very Light Internet Users

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Which Option Do We Recommend?

If you’re taking a short business trip or weekend city break, AT&T roaming may provide all the connectivity you need.

However, if you’re planning a one or two-week European holiday, visiting several countries, taking a Mediterranean cruise or travelling by rail, a Europe eSIM offers outstanding flexibility and convenience.

Many travellers find the ideal solution is to combine both services:

• Keep your AT&T SIM active for calls and text messages.
• Use a Europe eSIM for mobile data.

This setup allows you to enjoy the familiarity of your AT&T number while benefiting from reliable prepaid mobile data throughout your journey.

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Choosing the Best Option for Your European Trip

Now that you know your AT&T phone will work in Europe, the next step is choosing the connectivity option that best matches your style of travel.

Some travellers only need a few days of mobile data, while others spend weeks exploring multiple countries by train, cruise ship or rental car.

Your ideal setup depends on:

• How long you’re travelling.
• How many countries you’ll visit.
• How much mobile data you’ll use.
• Whether you need to keep your AT&T number available.

Below are our recommendations for the most common types of European holidays.

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Best Option for iPhone Users

If you own an iPhone XS or newer, your device almost certainly supports eSIM technology.

This makes international travel extremely simple because you can keep your physical AT&T SIM installed while adding a Europe eSIM for mobile data.

Typical iPhone users rely on:

• Apple Maps or Google Maps.
• Apple Wallet boarding passes.
• FaceTime.
• iMessage.
• Apple Pay.
• Travel apps.

Recommended Plan: 10 GB Europe eSIM

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Best Option for Samsung Galaxy Users

Recent Samsung Galaxy smartphones are excellent travel companions thanks to their Dual SIM capability and wide European network compatibility.

Whether you’re photographing the Swiss Alps or navigating Rome’s historic streets, a Europe eSIM gives you reliable prepaid data throughout your journey.

Recommended Plan: 10 GB or 20 GB Europe eSIM

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Best Option for Google Pixel Users

Google Pixel phones are particularly popular with travellers because they integrate seamlessly with Google Maps, Google Translate and Google’s travel ecosystem.

Many Pixel owners use their phones for:

• Navigation.
• Live translation.
• Photo backup.
• Restaurant searches.
• Train schedules.

Recommended Plan: 10 GB Europe eSIM

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Best Option for Couples

Couples generally spend their holidays exploring cities, enjoying local restaurants and visiting popular attractions.

Most daily mobile usage includes:

• Navigation.
• Booking attractions.
• Restaurant reviews.
• Photo sharing.
• Messaging family.

Recommended Plan: 10 GB Europe eSIM per person

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Best Option for Families

Family holidays often involve more planning and more connected devices.

Parents frequently use their phones to:

• Book accommodation.
• Find family-friendly attractions.
• Navigate between destinations.
• Manage travel bookings.
• Keep children entertained during long journeys.

Recommended Plan: 20 GB Europe eSIM

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Best Option for Mediterranean Cruises

Your AT&T phone works well during shore excursions, where mobile data quickly becomes essential.

Typical uses include:

• Finding your way around port cities.
• Booking excursions.
• Using Google Maps.
• Ordering transport.
• Finding restaurants near the port.

Recommended Plan: 10–20 GB Europe eSIM

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Best Option for River Cruises

River cruises frequently pass through several countries during a single itinerary.

Because a Europe eSIM automatically connects to supported local networks, you remain connected as your ship moves from country to country.

Recommended Plan: 20 GB Europe eSIM

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Best Option for Rail Holidays

Europe’s railway network is one of the best in the world, and your smartphone becomes your travel companion.

You’ll regularly use it for:

• Rail tickets.
• Platform information.
• Google Maps.
• Hotel check-in.
• Travel planning.

Recommended Plan: 20 GB Europe eSIM

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Best Option for Business Travellers

If you’re travelling for work, reliable connectivity is essential.

Your phone may be used for:

• Microsoft Teams.
• Zoom meetings.
• Email.
• Cloud storage.
• Hotspot tethering.

Recommended Plan: Unlimited Europe eSIM

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Best Option for Seniors

Many retired travellers use their smartphones for safety, convenience and keeping in touch with family.

Typical uses include:

• Maps.
• Medical information.
• Travel documents.
• Messaging family.
• Booking transport.

Recommended Plan: 10 GB Europe eSIM

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Recommended Europe eSIM Plans

Traveller Type	Recommended Plan	Ideal For
Weekend Break	5 GB	Light Data Use
iPhone Users	10 GB	Everyday Travel
Samsung Users	10–20 GB	Photography & Navigation
Google Pixel Users	10 GB	Maps & Translation
Couples	10 GB	General Travel
Families	20 GB	Planning & Entertainment
Cruises	10–20 GB	Port Days
Rail Holidays	20 GB	Navigation & Tickets
Business	Unlimited	Remote Work

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Should You Keep Your AT&T SIM Active?

For most travellers, the answer is yes.

Keeping your AT&T SIM active allows you to:

• Receive important phone calls.
• Continue receiving SMS verification codes.
• Keep your familiar US number.
• Use your Europe eSIM for fast mobile data.

This Dual SIM setup provides the flexibility of two services without needing to swap SIM cards during your trip.

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Our Recommendation

If your AT&T phone supports eSIM—and most recent devices do—we recommend using it alongside a Europe eSIM.

This setup gives you:

• Reliable prepaid mobile data.
• Coverage across more than 30 European countries.
• The ability to keep your AT&T phone number.
• A seamless experience whether you’re travelling by train, cruise ship or rental car.

For most American travellers, it’s the simplest and most flexible way to stay connected throughout Europe.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use my AT&T phone in Europe?

Yes. Most modern AT&T smartphones work throughout Europe. Once you arrive, your phone connects to one of AT&T’s partner networks or, if you’re using a Europe eSIM, to a supported local mobile network.

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Do I need to unlock my AT&T phone?

If you’re only using AT&T’s international roaming service, you generally don’t need to unlock your phone. However, if you want to install a Europe eSIM from another provider, your device will usually need to be carrier unlocked.

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Can I keep my AT&T phone number?

Yes. If your phone supports Dual SIM, you can leave your AT&T SIM active for calls and text messages while using a Europe eSIM for mobile data.

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Will my iPhone work in Europe?

Yes. Most iPhones from the iPhone XS onwards support European mobile networks and eSIM technology, making them excellent travel phones.

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Will my Samsung Galaxy phone work in Europe?

Yes. Recent Samsung Galaxy S, Fold and Flip devices are compatible with European mobile networks and most support eSIM functionality.

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Will my Google Pixel work in Europe?

Yes. Google Pixel phones support international travel well and integrate perfectly with Google Maps, Translate and other travel apps commonly used throughout Europe.

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Can I use WhatsApp?

Absolutely. WhatsApp stays linked to your existing phone number, so installing a Europe eSIM won’t affect your contacts, conversations or call history.

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Can I still receive SMS verification codes?

Yes. If you leave your AT&T SIM active, you’ll usually continue receiving verification codes from your bank, email provider and other online services.

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Will FaceTime and Messenger work?

Yes. Internet-based calling apps such as FaceTime, WhatsApp and Facebook Messenger work normally using your Europe eSIM’s mobile data connection.

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Can I use my phone as a hotspot?

Most Europe eSIM plans support hotspot tethering, allowing you to connect laptops, tablets and other devices while travelling. If you expect heavy usage, consider choosing a larger data allowance or an Unlimited plan.

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Will my Europe eSIM work across multiple countries?

Yes. Roamzy Connect Europe eSIMs work across more than 30 European countries, automatically connecting to supported local networks as you cross borders.

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Helpful Guides for AT&T Customers

If you’re planning your European holiday, these articles may also help:

• Travelling to Europe with AT&T
• Do I Need an eSIM for Europe If I Have an AT&T Plan?
• Best Europe eSIM for Americans
• Europe eSIM Plans
• Europe eSIM vs AT&T International Day Pass
• Europe eSIM vs International Roaming
• Europe eSIM vs Local SIM Cards
• How to Install an eSIM
• What Is an eSIM?
• How Much Does AT&T Roaming Cost in Europe? (Coming Soon)

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Official Travel Resources

• AT&T International Travel
• AT&T Support
• U.S. Department of State – International Travel
• Transportation Security Administration (TSA)

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Final Verdict: Can You Use Your AT&T Phone in Europe?

Yes—you almost certainly can.

Most AT&T smartphones sold in recent years are fully compatible with European mobile networks, making them ideal for everything from weekend city breaks to month-long adventures across the continent.

The more important question isn’t whether your phone will work—it’s how you want to use it.

If you’re taking a short trip and prefer maximum simplicity, AT&T’s international roaming options may suit your needs.

If you’re planning a longer holiday, travelling through multiple countries or relying heavily on maps, travel apps and messaging, many travellers find that adding a Roamzy Connect Europe eSIM gives them greater flexibility and predictable prepaid mobile data while still keeping their AT&T number.

With Dual SIM technology, you don’t have to choose one or the other. You can enjoy the convenience of your existing AT&T service together with reliable mobile data throughout more than 30 European countries.

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