Travelling to Europe with Verizon (2026 Complete Guide)

Last Updated: January 2026 • Read Time: 9 Minutes

If you’re travelling to Europe with Verizon, you’re probably asking one of the following questions:

• Will my Verizon phone work in Europe?
• Should I use Verizon TravelPass?
• Do I need a Europe eSIM?
• How much will roaming cost?
• Can I keep my US phone number?

The good news is that travelling through Europe with Verizon has never been easier.

Modern Verizon smartphones work throughout most European countries, allowing you to stay connected for navigation, messaging, travel bookings and keeping in touch with family back home.

However, before boarding your flight, it’s worth understanding your connectivity options. While Verizon’s international roaming services provide convenience, many travellers now compare them with prepaid Europe eSIMs that can provide reliable mobile data across more than 30 European countries.

This guide explains everything you need to know before leaving the United States.

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Quick Answer

Yes, you can use your Verizon phone throughout Europe.

Most modern Verizon smartphones support European mobile networks and many also support Dual SIM and eSIM technology.

For short trips, Verizon’s international roaming options may be all you need.

For longer holidays or multi-country European adventures, many travellers compare Verizon TravelPass with a prepaid Europe eSIM before departure.

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Will My Verizon Phone Work in Europe?

In most cases, yes.

Modern Verizon phones are designed to operate on international mobile networks and are compatible with the networks used throughout 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 worth checking compatibility before you travel.

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What Are Your Options?

Travelling with Verizon gives you several ways to stay connected.

Option 1 — Verizon TravelPass

Continue using your Verizon service while overseas through Verizon’s international roaming options.

This is the easiest solution for travellers who value convenience.

Option 2 — Europe eSIM

Install a prepaid Europe eSIM before leaving home.

Your phone connects directly to supported European mobile networks while travelling across more than 30 countries.

Option 3 — Use Both Together

If your phone supports Dual SIM, you can use:

• Verizon for calls and SMS.
• A Europe eSIM for mobile data.

This allows you to keep your familiar US phone number while using prepaid mobile data throughout your holiday.

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Why Staying Connected Matters

Your smartphone quickly becomes your most important travel companion.

You’ll probably use it every day for:

• Google Maps navigation.
• Rail tickets.
• Airline boarding passes.
• Restaurant bookings.
• Translation apps.
• Travel photography.
• WhatsApp and FaceTime.
• Hotel reservations.

Reliable connectivity makes exploring Europe significantly easier and more enjoyable.

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What Type of European Trip Are You Planning?

Your connectivity needs will vary depending on your itinerary.

You might be planning:

• A weekend in Paris.
• A Mediterranean cruise.
• A Swiss rail holiday.
• A family vacation through Italy.
• A month-long backpacking adventure.

Each type of trip places different demands on your mobile data usage.

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Should You Consider a Europe eSIM?

A Europe eSIM is becoming increasingly popular because it allows travellers to organise their mobile data before leaving home.

Rather than searching for SIM cards after arriving, you can install your eSIM in advance and activate it when you land.

For compatible Dual SIM phones, many travellers continue using their Verizon number for calls and messages while letting their Europe eSIM handle maps, travel apps and internet access.

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What You’ll Learn in This Guide

In the following sections we’ll explain:

• How Verizon works in Europe.
• What Verizon TravelPass offers.
• When a Europe eSIM may be a better option.
• The best choice for different styles of travel.
• Frequently asked questions from Verizon customers.

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How Verizon Works in Europe

If you’ve never travelled internationally before, you may be wondering what actually happens when your plane lands in Europe.

The process is surprisingly simple.

After switching off Airplane Mode, your Verizon phone automatically searches for a compatible partner mobile network in the country you’ve arrived in. Within a few moments, you’ll usually see a local carrier appear on your screen and your phone is ready to use.

You don’t need to manually search for networks or change complicated settings.

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Will Verizon Work Throughout Europe?

Yes.

Verizon works in most popular European destinations through agreements with local mobile network operators.

Whether you’re travelling to:

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

your phone should automatically connect to a supported local network, provided international roaming is enabled on your account.

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Understanding Verizon TravelPass

Many Verizon customers travel internationally using Verizon TravelPass.

TravelPass allows eligible customers to use their domestic talk, text and data allowances while travelling overseas for a daily fee in supported destinations.

For many travellers, this provides a familiar experience because they continue using the same Verizon number and mobile service they’re accustomed to at home.

Before travelling, it’s worth reviewing the latest TravelPass pricing, eligible destinations and plan inclusions directly through Verizon.

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What Is a Europe eSIM?

A Europe eSIM is a digital SIM card that can be installed onto compatible smartphones without replacing your existing Verizon SIM.

Instead of relying entirely on traditional roaming, your phone connects directly to supported European mobile networks using prepaid mobile data.

This is particularly useful for travellers visiting several countries during one holiday.

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Why Dual SIM Is So Popular

Many recent smartphones support Dual SIM, allowing two mobile services to operate simultaneously.

A common setup looks like this:

Verizon SIM	Europe eSIM
Voice Calls	Mobile Data
SMS Messages	Google Maps
Verification Codes	Travel Apps
Your US Number	WhatsApp & FaceTime

This setup allows you to continue receiving important calls and text messages while using prepaid mobile data throughout Europe.

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Do I Need an Unlocked Phone?

That depends on how you plan to stay connected.

If you’re using Verizon TravelPass, 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.

Checking your device’s unlock status before travelling can save time and frustration later.

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Can I Keep My Verizon Number?

Yes.

One of the biggest advantages of Dual SIM technology is that you don’t have to choose between your Verizon number and a Europe eSIM.

You can continue receiving:

• Phone calls.
• SMS messages.
• Bank verification codes.
• Two-factor authentication messages.

Meanwhile, your Europe eSIM provides the mobile data needed for maps, messaging apps and travel planning.

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What Happens When You Cross Borders?

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

You might:

• Fly into Paris.
• Take a train to Switzerland.
• Continue into Italy.
• Finish your holiday in Austria.

With a Europe eSIM, your phone automatically switches to supported local networks as you cross each border, allowing you to remain connected without changing SIM cards.

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Common Mistakes Verizon Customers Make

Most connectivity issues are easy to avoid with a little preparation.

Before leaving home, remember to:

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

These simple steps can make arriving in Europe much smoother.

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How Much Will You Use Your Phone?

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

A typical day might include:

• Finding your hotel.
• Checking train schedules.
• Using Google Maps.
• Booking museum tickets.
• Finding nearby restaurants.
• Using translation apps.
• Sharing holiday photos.
• Keeping in touch with family.

Reliable mobile data quickly becomes an essential part of your European adventure.

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Verizon TravelPass vs Other Ways to Stay Connected

Once you’ve confirmed your Verizon phone will work in Europe, the next question becomes:

“What’s the best way to stay connected?”

There are now several options available, each suited to different travel styles, budgets and itineraries.

The five most common choices are:

1. Verizon TravelPass
2. Europe eSIM
3. Local European SIM card
4. Pocket WiFi
5. Free public Wi-Fi

Let’s compare them.

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Option 1: Verizon TravelPass

Verizon TravelPass is designed for travellers who want to continue using their existing Verizon service while overseas.

Your phone connects to Verizon’s partner mobile networks throughout Europe, allowing you to continue using your existing phone number.

Advantages

• No additional setup before travelling.
• Keep your existing Verizon phone number.
• Works shortly after landing.
• Ideal for shorter holidays and business travel.

Things to Consider

• The total cost depends on the length of your holiday.
• Heavy mobile data users may wish to compare prepaid alternatives.
• Review your TravelPass eligibility and inclusions before departure.

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Option 2: Europe eSIM

Europe eSIMs have become one of the most popular ways to stay connected while travelling.

Instead of relying entirely on traditional roaming, your compatible phone connects directly to supported European mobile networks using prepaid mobile data.

If your Verizon phone supports Dual SIM, you can continue using:

Verizon SIM	Europe eSIM
Phone Calls	Mobile Data
SMS Messages	Google Maps
Verification Codes	WhatsApp
Your US Number	Travel Apps

Advantages

• Coverage across more than 30 European countries.
• Install before leaving home.
• No physical SIM card.
• Ideal for multi-country travel.
• Flexible prepaid plans.

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Option 3: Buy a Local SIM Card

Some travellers purchase a local SIM card after arriving in Europe.

This can work well if you’re spending several weeks in a single country, but it’s generally less convenient for holidays involving multiple destinations.

You’ll usually need to:

• Visit a local mobile phone retailer.
• Choose a prepaid plan.
• Provide identification.
• Replace your Verizon SIM card.
• Configure your phone.

For many tourists, installing a Europe eSIM before departure is a much simpler solution.

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Option 4: Pocket WiFi

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

They can be useful for families travelling with tablets and laptops but require carrying an additional device throughout your holiday.

Advantages

• Multiple devices can connect.
• No SIM card changes.
• Useful for families.

Disadvantages

• Rental fees.
• Another device to carry.
• Requires daily charging.
• Replacement costs if lost.

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Option 5: Public Wi-Fi

Europe offers excellent free Wi-Fi in many locations including:

• Hotels.
• Cafés.
• Restaurants.
• Airports.
• Some railway stations.

However, public Wi-Fi also has limitations.

• You won’t have internet while walking between locations.
• Connection speeds vary.
• Open networks aren’t always secure.
• Coverage isn’t guaranteed everywhere.

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

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Verizon TravelPass vs Europe eSIM

Feature	Verizon TravelPass	Roamzy Connect Europe eSIM
Keep Your Verizon Number	✔ Yes	✔ Yes (Dual SIM)
Coverage Across Europe	✔ Yes	✔ 30+ Countries
Install Before Departure	Not Required	✔ Yes
Prepaid Mobile Data	Depends on Plan	✔ Yes
Physical SIM Required	No	No
Ideal for Multi-Country Trips	Good	Excellent

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Overall Comparison

Option	Convenience	Flexibility	Best For
Roamzy Connect Europe eSIM	★★★★★	★★★★★	Most Leisure Travellers
Verizon TravelPass	★★★★★	★★★★☆	Short Trips & Business Travel
Local SIM Card	★★★☆☆	★★★☆☆	Long Single-Country Stays
Pocket WiFi	★★☆☆☆	★★★★☆	Families & Groups
Public Wi-Fi	★☆☆☆☆	★☆☆☆☆	Occasional Internet Use

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Which Option Is Best?

If you’re travelling to Europe for only a few days, Verizon TravelPass offers excellent convenience and requires very little preparation.

If you’re planning a one or two-week holiday, travelling through multiple countries or relying heavily on mobile data, many travellers compare Verizon TravelPass with a prepaid Europe eSIM before they leave home.

One of the most popular setups is:

• Verizon SIM for calls and SMS.
• Roamzy Connect Europe eSIM for mobile data.

This allows you to keep your familiar US phone number while enjoying reliable prepaid mobile data across more than 30 European countries.

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Which Connectivity Option Is Right for Your European Trip?

Now that you understand how Verizon works in Europe and the alternatives available, the next step is choosing the option that best suits your holiday.

The right choice depends on:

• How long you’ll be travelling.
• How many countries you’ll visit.
• How much mobile data you’ll use.
• Whether you want to keep your Verizon number active.

Below are our recommendations for the most common European travel styles.

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Best Option for Weekend City Breaks

If you’re spending a long weekend in cities like Paris, Rome, Amsterdam or Barcelona, your phone will probably be used for:

• Google Maps.
• Restaurant bookings.
• Public transport.
• Social media.
• Messaging family and friends.

Recommended Option:

Verizon TravelPass offers excellent convenience for shorter trips. If you prefer prepaid mobile data before departure, a 5 GB Europe eSIM is also a great choice.

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Best Option for One to Two Week Holidays

This is one of the most common European itineraries for American travellers.

Your phone quickly becomes an essential travel companion for:

• Navigation.
• Train tickets.
• Hotel bookings.
• Museum reservations.
• Translation apps.
• Travel photography.

Recommended Plan:

10 GB Europe eSIM

This provides ample data for most holidaymakers while allowing compatible Dual SIM phones to keep your Verizon number active.

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Best Option for Multi-Country European Tours

Many travellers don’t stay in just one country.

You might begin in:

• France.
• Switzerland.
• Italy.
• Austria.
• Germany.

Or perhaps:

• Spain.
• Portugal.
• France.

A Europe eSIM automatically connects to supported local networks as you cross borders, making it ideal for this style of travel.

Recommended Plan:

20 GB Europe eSIM

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Best Option for Mediterranean Cruises

Cruise passengers often rely on mobile data while exploring ports of call.

Typical uses include:

• Walking tours.
• Google Maps.
• Booking excursions.
• Finding cafés and restaurants.
• Ordering transport.

Recommended Plan:

10–20 GB Europe eSIM

This provides reliable connectivity throughout your shore excursions.

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Best Option for River Cruises

River cruises regularly travel through several countries during a single itinerary.

A Europe eSIM automatically switches between supported local networks as your ship crosses borders, providing seamless connectivity throughout your journey.

Recommended Plan:

20 GB Europe eSIM

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Best Option for Rail Holidays

Travelling by train means you’ll use your phone constantly.

Daily activities often include:

• Downloading rail tickets.
• Checking departure boards.
• Navigating stations.
• Finding accommodation.
• Booking attractions.

Recommended Plan:

20 GB Europe eSIM

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Best Option for Business Travellers

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

Your phone may be used for:

• Microsoft Teams.
• Zoom meetings.
• Email.
• Cloud storage.
• Mobile hotspot.

Recommended Plan:

Unlimited Europe eSIM

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Best Option for Digital Nomads

Remote workers often consume significantly more data than leisure travellers.

Large file uploads, cloud backups, video conferencing and hotspot tethering all increase mobile data usage.

Recommended Plan:

Unlimited Europe eSIM

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Best Option for Seniors

Many retirees travel throughout Europe on coach tours, river cruises or extended holidays.

Reliable mobile data makes it easier to:

• Navigate unfamiliar cities.
• Stay connected with family.
• Access travel documents.
• Use translation apps.
• Book local 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 Mobile Data Use
1–2 Week Holiday	10 GB	General Tourism
Multi-Country Tour	20 GB	Cross-Border Travel
Mediterranean Cruise	10–20 GB	Port Days
River Cruise	20 GB	Multiple Countries
Rail Holiday	20 GB	Frequent Navigation
Business Travel	Unlimited	Work & Video Calls
Digital Nomad	Unlimited	Heavy Daily Usage

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Should You Keep Your Verizon SIM Active?

For most travellers, the answer is yes.

Keeping your Verizon SIM active allows you to:

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

Compatible Dual SIM phones make this setup simple and convenient.

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Our Recommendation

If you’re taking a short trip and convenience is your top priority, Verizon TravelPass is a straightforward solution.

However, for longer holidays, rail adventures, cruises or multi-country European itineraries, many travellers choose to pair their Verizon service with a Europe eSIM.

This combination lets you:

• Keep your Verizon number.
• Use prepaid mobile data across more than 30 European countries.
• Avoid changing physical SIM cards.
• Stay connected throughout your journey.

For many travellers, it’s the best balance between convenience, flexibility and reliable connectivity.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Will my Verizon phone work in Europe?

Yes. Most modern Verizon smartphones work throughout Europe by connecting to Verizon’s partner mobile networks. If your phone supports eSIM technology, you can also use a Europe eSIM for prepaid mobile data while travelling.

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What is Verizon TravelPass?

Verizon TravelPass is Verizon’s international roaming service that allows eligible customers to use their domestic talk, text and data allowances while travelling in supported countries for a daily fee. Check Verizon’s website before you travel for the latest pricing, eligibility and included destinations.

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Can I keep my Verizon phone number?

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

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Do I need to unlock my Verizon phone?

If you’re planning to use Verizon TravelPass, you generally won’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 use WhatsApp with a Europe eSIM?

Absolutely. WhatsApp stays linked to your existing phone number, not your SIM card, so installing a Europe eSIM won’t affect your chats or contacts.

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Will I still receive SMS verification codes?

Yes. Keeping your Verizon SIM active allows you to continue receiving bank verification codes and two-factor authentication messages while your Europe eSIM handles your internet connection.

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Will a Europe eSIM work in multiple European countries?

Yes. Roamzy Connect Europe eSIMs provide coverage across more than 30 European countries and automatically connect to supported local networks as you travel.

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Should I install my Europe eSIM before I leave the United States?

Yes. Installing your Europe eSIM before departure allows you to complete the setup over your home Wi-Fi, making it much easier to connect when you arrive in Europe.

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How much mobile data do I need?

Trip Length	Suggested Plan
Weekend Break	5 GB
1–2 Week Holiday	10 GB
2–4 Week Holiday	20 GB
Business or Remote Work	Unlimited

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Can I use my Verizon phone as a hotspot in Europe?

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

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Helpful Guides for Verizon Customers

If you’re planning a European holiday, these related guides may also help:

• Do I Need an eSIM for Europe If I Have a Verizon Plan? (Coming Soon)
• Can I Use My Verizon Phone in Europe? (Coming Soon)
• How Much Does Verizon Roaming Cost in Europe? (Coming Soon)
• Europe eSIM vs Verizon TravelPass (Coming Soon)
• Best Europe eSIM for Americans
• Europe eSIM Plans
• Europe eSIM vs International Roaming
• Europe eSIM vs Local SIM Cards
• How to Install an eSIM
• What Is an eSIM?

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Official Resources

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

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Final Verdict

Travelling to Europe with Verizon is easier than ever.

Most modern Verizon smartphones work throughout Europe, giving you access to maps, travel apps, online bookings, messaging services and everything else that makes modern travel more enjoyable.

For short holidays and business trips, Verizon TravelPass offers a convenient way to continue using your existing mobile service.

For longer vacations, multi-country itineraries, cruises and rail adventures, many travellers compare Verizon TravelPass with a prepaid Europe eSIM before leaving home.

One of the most popular setups is to combine both services:

• Keep your Verizon SIM active for calls and SMS.
• Use a Roamzy Connect Europe eSIM for mobile data.

This allows you to keep your familiar US phone number while enjoying reliable prepaid mobile data across more than 30 European countries.

Whichever option you choose, planning your connectivity before departure means you’ll spend less time worrying about your phone and more time enjoying Europe.

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