xfinity global travel pass reviews

Xfinity Mobile Review: From a Customer (Updated for 2024)

This Xfinity Mobile review has been updated for 2024. Long-time readers may be quite surprised to find this Xfinity Mobile Review on this site. But, I’ve tested their service and wanted to do a deep dive to share with readers, from the perspective of an actual real Xfinity Mobile user. We’ll dig in to Xfinity Mobile’s network, plans, phone selection, pros, cons, promotions, and much more in this review.

Here are a few things to note about this review:

• I’ve previously and extensively reviewed the cheapest data plans , cheapest prepaid plans , and cheapest mobile WiFi hotspot plans on the market, and I’ve come to the conclusion that, at this moment, Xfinity Mobile is one of best value mobile plans on the market – and can potentially save readers money.
• If you are also an Xfinity Internet and/or Cable TV customer, you can save even more money by bundling services (more on that below).
• Despite my prior grievances with Xfinity Mobile’s parent company, Comcast, I have been an actual Xfinity Mobile user – and have used Xfinity Mobile extensively.

So let’s jump right in. Here’s what you’ll find in this Xfinity Mobile review:

What is Xfinity Mobile?

Xfinity Mobile is a relatively newer mobile cellular service from ISP/Cable TV conglomerate, Comcast Xfinity. The service somewhat quietly launched to customers in May of 2017, and went live in all Xfinity residential markets in August of that year.

In addition to 5G and nation-wide 4G LTE coverage (on Verizon’s network), Xfinity Mobile also boasts 20 million+ WiFi hotspots, and flexible low-cost plans.

Can I Get Xfinity Mobile? Xfinity Mobile Availability Map

In order to become an Xfinity Mobile customer, you must first be a residential Xfinity Internet service customer, residing within Xfinity’s market map. If you’re unsure about Xfinity availability, you can check if Xfinity internet service is available in your area . If it is, and you’re an Internet service customer, you are eligible to get Xfinity Mobile.

What Network Does Xfinity Mobile Use?

Xfinity Mobile is a “mobile virtual network operator”, or MVNO . As an MVNO, Xfinity Mobile doesn’t own its own wireless spectrum, it buys wholesale priced access from one of the 3 big wireless spectrum owners in the United States. Specifically, Xfinity Mobile runs on Verizon’s Network. Making a call? You’re calling on Verizon’s network. Texting? Verizon’s network. Using mobile data? Verizon’s network. With Xfinity Mobile, you are getting all of the touted benefits of Verizon’s network (at a fraction of Verizon’s prices).

Xfinity Mobile Coverage Map

Xfinity Mobile, by virtue of running on Verizon’s Network, has access to 5G in available locations and the largest 4G LTE network in the US. Verizon touts that it covers 327 million people (5G now covers over 230 million people), 99% of the country’s population, and more square miles than any other network. Here is an interactive Verizon coverage map so you can visualize the Xfinity Mobile coverage map. If you’d like to specifically check your zip code for Xfinity Mobile 4G/5G and Wi-Fi hotspot coverage, you can do so here .

Xfinity WiFi Hotspot Map

In addition to offering up Verizon’s Network for prices that are much cheaper than Verizon (more on that in a bit), one unique Xfinity Mobile feature that distinguishes it from its competition is that it offers users 20+ million WiFi hotspots to tap into for free. Xfinity makes this possible through using modems it leases to customers as WiFi hotspots . Clever.

Tapping into hotspots while out to a coffee shop, restaurant, bar, hotel, etc. can allow you to keep your mobile data usage to a minimum (if you’re able to find a hotspot to connect to). Here is an Xfinity WiFi hotspot map or you can use the Xfinity WiFi hotspot app ( iPhone , Android ), which can be used offline.

Xfinity Mobile Plans & Prices

Xfinity Mobile plan costs are low and flexible. Certainly lower than any of the big 3 carriers, but lower than even most of the cheapest of bare-bones MVNOs (who often have close to zero customer service and no WiFi hotspots).

For starters, all customers get:

• Unlimited nationwide talk and text, at no added charge
• 5G speeds (where available on Verizon’s network) and 4G LTE data elsewhere
• Free access to millions of WiFi hotspots

Additionally, Xfinity Mobile offers international roaming coverage (detailed below).

Beyond talk, text, & WiFi – if needed, you have a choice of data plan options :

Xfinity “By the Gig” Data Plans

Features 3 data options & data can be shared on up to 10 lines, and high resolution video streaming:

• 1GB: $15/month
• 3GB: $30/month
• 10GB: $60/month

Xfinity “Unlimited Intro” Data Plan

Features 20GB of high speed data per line, unlimited mobile hotspot data at 600kbps, standard 480p LTE video streaming:

• 1 line: $45/month
• 2-4 lines: $30/month per line
• 5-10 lines: +$20/month per line

Speeds are reduced after 20GB of data use.

Xfinity “Unlimited Plus” Data Plan

Features 30GB of high speed data per line, 5GB of mobile hotspot data at 5G/4G high speeds, high resolution 720p LTE video streaming:

• 1 line: $55/month
• 2-4 lines: $40/month per line
• 5-10 lines: +$30/month per line

Speeds are reduced after 30GB of data use.

Xfinity “Unlimited Premium” Data Plan

Features 50GB of high speed data per line, 15GB of mobile hotspot data at high priority speeds, high resolution 720p LTE video streaming:

• 1 line: $65/month
• 2-4 lines: $50/month per line
• 5-10 lines: +$40/month per line

Speeds are reduced after 50GB of data use.

On the unlimited plans, after the high speed monthly data use allotment is used, speeds are reduced, determined and applied on a per line basis. There is no “rollover” data.

You can switch from “by the gig” to an “unlimited” plan within the same month or from “unlimited” to “by the gig” at the start of the next billing cycle. You can find lower price per GB data plans out there, but you typically have to pay for talk and text with those plans, which would wipe out the benefit.

How Does Xfinity Mobile’s Prices Compare to Verizon?

Compared to Xfinity Mobile, Verizon offers the following prices for the same network:

Verizon Monthly Prepaid:

• 15 GB: $45/month to start
• “Unlimited” data (with 5GB mobile hotspot): $60/month to start
• “Unlimited Plus” data (with 25GB mobile hotspot): $70/month

Bundling Xfinity Mobile with Other Xfinity Services for Better Prices

Xfinity also frequently has deals that allow you to bundle Xfinity Mobile with Xfinity TV and Internet, lowering the combined total prices of those services. If you live with an Xfinity Internet/TV supported area , bundling Xfinity Mobile with those services will almost always offer you the lowest total versus buying from separate providers. You can find current  Xfinity bundle offers here if you’re interested in bundling services. Adding Xfinity Mobile to a bundle usually results in the best deals, often with some nice incentives.

Does Xfinity Mobile Have International Roaming?

Xfinity Mobile has international rate plan options for those traveling abroad.

You can add a “Global Travel Pass” to any line and pay a flat rate for calls, texts, and data for $10/day per line in 170+ covered countries, or $5/day per line in Mexico and Canada only. Global Travel Pass includes 512 MB of LTE data per pass per day, then data is available at 2G speeds. Data used while abroad will count toward your By the Gig or Unlimited data option. “Pay as you go” is also available.

Data used counts towards both By the Gig or Unlimited data options.

Does Xfinity Mobile Have Contracts or Penalties?

No. There are no contracts with Xfinity Mobile. You can leave at any time, if you’re not happy, without penalty or early termination fee. However, you may have to pay off the remaining balance on your phone and plans (which seems fair).

Can you Use Xfinity Mobile as a Personal Hotspot?

Yes – you can use Xfinity Mobile data to create a personal WiFi hotspot. According to Xfinity Mobile:

Your Xfinity Mobile phone is more than just a phone. It’s also a personal hotspot, which can be super convenient when you need to connect a computer to the internet and you don’t have WiFi. Your phone enables you to get online via WiFi, Bluetooth, or USB cable — on your laptop, tablet, or any other device — by using your cellular data to create an internet connection. How your data option affects personal hotspots If you have the  Unlimited Intro  data option, speeds on any connected device will not exceed 600 Kbps. With the  Unlimited Plus  data option: The first 5GB of personal hotspot usage will be at the maximum speed available (based on your device’s capabilities and network capacity). After 5GB of hotspot use, your hotspot speeds will be 600 Kbps for the rest of your billing cycle. With the  Unlimited Premium  data option, the first 15GB of personal hotspot usage will be at the maximum speed available. This is based on your device’s capabilities and network capacity. With  By the Gig  data, personal hotspot speeds aren’t automatically limited.

If you Cancel Xfinity Internet Service, Can you Keep Using Xfinity Mobile?

Yes, you can keep using Xfinity Mobile if you cancel Xfinity Internet. A $25 per line monthly charge applies if at least one of the following post-pay subscriptions are not maintained on the account: Xfinity TV, Internet, or Voice service.

Xfinity Mobile Phone Selection

Xfinity Mobile has a solid offering of mobile devices (mostly on the higher end and a few budget offerings), including both both iOS and Android OS devices. You can either buy the phone outright or spread out the cost of the phone over 24 months (at 0% APR).

Currently, Xfinity Mobile offers devices from the following manufacturers:

• Apple: iPhone
• Google: Nexus
• Motorola: Moto G, Razr
• Samsung: Galaxy

Xfinity Mobile BYOD (Bring Your Own Device)

You can bring your own device (BYOD) when you switch to Xfinity Mobile (iPhone 6 and later for iPhones, Google Pixel, and Samsung Galaxy S8 or later for Android). You can check Xfinity Mobile device compatibility here .

If you bring your own device, there are no added fees, and you can get a free SIM card. And yes, you can still access the WiFi hotspots. Xfinity even offers promotions for BYOD occasionally.

Xfinity Mobile Pros:

There are a number of Xfinity Mobile pros:

• Pricing: the pricing is fair, honest, and cheap.
• Flexibility: there is flexibility to switch plans.
• Network Reliability/Speed: Verizon’s network paired with millions of WiFi hotspots is as good as it gets.
• Risk-Free: 14-day money-back guarantee and no contracts.
• Phone Selection: a good selection of phone choices from Apple, Google, Motorola, and Samsung. You can get 0% APR financing on phones if you can’t afford to buy outright (at the same total price). Plus, you can BYOD without added fees.
• Strong Reviews from Customers: Xfinity Mobile was recently rated #1 value/most recommended compared to all full-service MVNOs in the 2022 American Customer Satisfaction Index survey of customers rating their own wireless service provider’s performance.

Xfinity Mobile Cons:

I alluded to this earlier, but any Xfinity Mobile review on my behalf would not be complete without addressing the elephant in the room: my previous beefs with Xfinity TV and Internet pricing. I’ve written many articles over the years on topics such as how to get rid of your Xfinity modem rental fee , how to replace an Xfinity modem with your own , how to negotiate with Xfinity , how to cut your Xfinity bill , and so on, to help readers save money.

I do see the broader company making serious efforts to improve its customer service and experience with Xfinity Mobile and elsewhere. For example:

• With Cable/Internet pricing, they have started offering existing customers extended contracts at prices previously only accessible to new customers (having to quibble over pricing and continual increases has long been a complaint of mine and others).
• Their customer service reps do seem much more accommodating in recent years, which is a reflection of company policy.
• Their revamped Xfinity stores are much closer to an Apple store than the DMV these days (I recently visited one and was shocked).

I looked long and hard for gotchas with Xfinity Mobile. I wouldn’t say these are “gotchas”, but are common cons for “unlimited” plans across the industry these days:

• after monthly data use, speeds are reduced, determined and applied on a per line basis
• Video streams up to 480p, standard-definition quality (20GB plan) (though HD streaming is available on Xfinity Wifi).
• On any connected device, mobile hotspot speeds will not exceed 600 kbps (Unlimited Intro plan).
• When they added 5G service, they increased their lowest price from $12 to $15, but this was likely the result of a new contract with Verizon.

Xfinity Mobile Promos and Discounts

Xfinity Mobile frequently runs promos and discounts. You can find a list of Xfinity Mobile promotions and discounts here .

They have been offering rotation promotions such as the following:

• Up to $400 off some of the new iPhones, Google Pixel, and Samsung Galaxy phones
• Up to $700 off with trade-in
• $100 if you bring your own device

Additionally, I’d recommend checking for Xfinity bundle offers here for bundled plan discounts with Xfinity Mobile included. Xfinity wants to grow their mobile user base, so they often offer nice discounts when you add Xfinity Mobile to other Xfinity services.

Our Xfinity Mobile Review Summary

If you live within an Xfinity covered area, Xfinity Mobile is a high-value prepaid mobile offering, and it’s an even better deal for those who can bundle with Xfinity TV and/or Internet. I really appreciate:

• the free unlimited nationwide talk & text on Verizon’s network
• 5G access and strong internet performance and speed
• the ability to share data, with up to 10 lines on “By the Gig” plans
• the option of multiple data plans, and flexibility to switch
• the ability to bring your own device (BYOD)
• the extensive Wi-Fi hotspot network to help keep data costs low
• the clear, fair, and transparent pricing
• no contracts

As with any mobile plan, just make sure the plan option you choose aligns with your usage habits so that you can get the best value and have enough data.

You can get a discount on an Xfinity Mobile phone or bring over your own device here and existing Xfinity customers can check for Xfinity bundle offers .

49 Comments

I ‘m very happy with my unlimited plan from them and used my own phone (Moto G5 Plus) way before the new BYOD option offered. The fact that I use my hotspot for work/school to tether was the main selling point for me.

I’ve also heard Verizon would give their post paid customers priority over prepaid/MVNO. Did you notice issues when using data? I have Verizon now and use less than 2GB a month. I have Xfinity as my internet provider. Xfinity mobile seems like a no-brainer for me but the availability of reliable data is sticking is worrying me nonetheless. Maybe it’s a security blanket. I’ve also been w/Verizon for 20+ years. If Xfinity eventually let me BYOD, I’d be saving $70 a month.

I had Verizon prepaid prior to Xfinity and haven’t noticed any difference in speed or connection quality. I was worried about reliability too and haven’t had an issue with either service, even on vacations in other corners of the US. $70 a month?! Switch! Switch now!! The $70 a month will buy you a new Xfinity compatible phone fast! Plus, they have been running $200 rebates for buying a new phone. First it was on Galaxy phones, then it was on iPhones. They also had a $500 new customer rebate a couple months ago. That’s the primary reason I switched!

I’m told by a Comcast employee acquaintance that new and BYOD phones are “tweaked” to automatically login to XFinity wifi locations whenever they are present, to lower the use of Verizon’s network. Can anyone confirm they’re phone was modified ?

No “tweaking” or modifications done. I set up my own phone (I purchased a new phone through Xfinity Mobile). We brought my boyfriend’s phone to the Xfinity store in our town and all they did was insert a SIM card into this phone and activate it.

I had several problems with my network. I rarely leave the house so i keep my data off and use wifi. I had my phone stolen lg charge so i bought another. I had to teset some passwords etc. In doing that i noticed my phones 4g was never lit and i barely have a bar of coverage. The mode was set to global as well as saying xfinity network. It also by default used the goohle storage of contacts to make “wifi calls” which not only do i just not like because of limited options but also caused conflicts between receiving phone calls and text. Now my phone is completely useless most of the time i have to leave wifi calling on and im still have major network issues even after resetting network to use lte etc.while i love the prices and flexability of choosing the type of plan i want, its useless if im not getting phone calls/text 90 % of time.also xfinity phone support is horrible with troubleshooting or fixing issues.while they are very polite and accomadating they are unable to help with anything beyond the skill level of typing it in google yourself. Which is pretty bad. Also since there is a severe lack of information available pertaining to mostly all of xfinity related issues. Even after all this im still impressed with this overall. Being that low cost less fuss is a prioty for me.

G.E. question: So X-M big sell is their millions hotspots… what’s your experience of switching between cellular and hotspot, seamless?

WIFI-Calling enabled? That’s the main reason am looking to replace my current MVNO.

I do believe X-M is the first MVNO with a metered plan ($15/1GB) to offer International roaming, the bunch of MVNOs either don’t offer it at all, or you have to buy their more expensive plans, what a pain-in-the-u-know-what for those of us who do occasional international travel and have to switch SIM when we get there. Same goes for International text, my current Tracfone just tells me NO. Nobody likes to hear no, am willing to pay them, but they are sooooo rigid these other MNVO. They all think we do pre-paid because we got no credit and therefore don’t know anybody overseas? What a bunch of dinosaurs.

Comcast getting nicer? well… I did notice they used to be adamant at sell bundles, I have tried to get Internet-only from them and they asked an arm-and-leg for a single service, UNTIL the beginning of this year and I jumped on it. OK keep it up Comcast, there maybe hope for you yet.

@ Jon Smith – I did BYOD with an iPhone. WiFi calling is indeed enabled. The hotspot/cellular handoffs are totally seamless. You can begin a call on WiFi and it will transfer to cellular once you move out of WiFi range or vice versa (this is only in areas with LTE service, but that’s pretty much everywhere for me). It seamlessly switches between Xfinity WiFi hotspots while out and about. It’s actually almost luxurious going to Starbucks, Panera, etc. and not having to sign in to use WiFi. It just works. Call quality, reception, and data speeds are exactly the same as they were when I was a post-paid Verizon customer.

I was never a huge fan of Comcast, but I had also never had any major problems with them, either. But I’ll say the experience I’ve had with XM has been world-class. They ported in my four lines from Verizon in just a few minutes in the Xfinity store (which, yes, looks a lot like an Apple store). The rep I dealt with was knowledgeable and efficient. I’ve had the service for a few months now and there have been no hiccups. It seemed too good to be true, but so far, so good.

I have a question about the in-call hand-off between Xfinity Wifi and and Verizon’s VoLTE / Circuit Switch networks. Are you sure that the hand-off goes both ways; Both hand-in and hand-out? Typically, carriers will do one but not both. And they usually do hand-out from the Wifi network to the cellular carrier network. Why? Because the call quality is difficult to control when you’re constantly jumping between networks. Imagine driving down a city street and at every stop light you pick up a Wifi network and your phone call transitions from cellular to wifi. Then when the light goes green and you go, it has to jump back to the macro network. Say goodbye to call continuity and quality. So are you sure that the service does both?

I was interested in finding out more about xm. After reading your article and the comments I’m still unsure. Mainly my worry is as you mentioned, dealing with Comcast/Xfinity is a royal pain. But so is Sprint and I’ve been with them for over 10 years. My question that I didn’t see anyone bring up is the fact that there is no contract. So if there is no contract, aren’t we subject to any price changes? Is there something that shows our price will not go up from the initial price we signed up with? ($12gb/$45unl) To my point with some of the comments about how they are not clear with what they have and don’t.

I’ve been using assorted prepaid services for years and they usually leave you grandfathered into your plan unless you change it yourself. For example, when I had Verizon Prepaid, they came out with new data packages every few months but it never affected my plan, until I read into one plan and realized it was a better deal so I asked them to switch my plan over to that. I’ve never had a price go up on my years of prepaid services (also had TMobile and Project Fi) but the nice thing is if it ever does, you can immediately jump ship to another company since you’re not locked into a contract.

This is all very interesting. I called Verizon today to let them know that I was considering going to Xfinity Mobile. Wow! What a difference! I have been working Verizon for years trying to get them to lower my rates. They want their $100 no matter what! I travel all over the US and abroad for work. Hands-down Verizon is the best network. I can’t afford not to have coverage. So when I saw that Comcast became an MVNO for Verizon, I was very excited. When I called Verizon and qouted the rates I got from Xfinity mobile, my plan went from $150 for my wife and I down to $96.40. Boom! DirecTV negotiates. Xfinity negotiates. XM Radio negotiates. Verizon never negotiates…until now! Thanks Xfinity Mobile!

dont hold your breath for the $200 prepaid visa card I have been waiting and waiting Get a different story everytime I call Was to have been last week Now they say another 4-6 weeks! What a joke

I got mine last week, be patient.

How long had you been waiting?

I was told 14-16 weeks and I think it fell in the range.

Thanks I’ve been told so many different things

Yeah – took about 3 months for mine to arrive too. Just be patient.

What about security if you use an Xfinity hotspot? Are they the same hotspots I can use now, since I’m already a Comcast customer for internet? One other thing. Any recommendations for a good Anti-virus on Android phones?

It’s been since February 1st

This is exactly the conversation I was hoping to find in considering switching from Verizon to xfinity. My remaining questions are: what is their int’l calling plan? I can pretty much use unlimited data/calls with Verizon for $10/day. And also, do they have an app where you can limit the data used by your kids? The incentives right now are huge – $150/line (which is $600 for us) plus $300 for buying a new iPhone with them (which we need). I’m wanting this to work but concerned about the spam issue and some of the other concerns raised here. Thanks for any replies.

I had a talk with Xfinity in regards to their Xfinity mobile. I asked them if they could match or beat the plan I currently have? I have the T-Mobile ONE Unlimited 55+ 2 lines $70/month plan, which includes all taxes and fees. Guess what? Xfinity said no. I told them to bad because you just lost a potential customer.

I’ve joined XM coming from TMo back in Sept and haven’t experienced any major issues. So far the service has been pretty good in my area (Alexandria Va). My only gripe is i could have gotten a better device but this LG Stylo 4 has been ok. Ported my number to XM so i should expect that $150 rebate deal as advertised sometime soon. They said it takes 16-18 weeks. I also have Xfinity TV Internet as well so that has been solid. I guess service experience varies by location.

To follow up on my post. Since I have an XM device, i wonder if u can transfer the simcard over to another unlock android that works with Verizon (ie OnePlus 6T) or other android devices. Has anyone done this?

After having Verizon as my provider since my first cell phone many years ago I changed to Xfinity mobile. I pay for 3 phones my phone, my wife’s phone and my 93 year old mothers phone. I have seen no difference in service, I have been on the plan for 7 months now and every bill has been $19 and a few cents for all three phones. We use data a lot but since we are all retired and have internet service at home and most people we visit have internet service, we use very little data because even if away from home and we are in range of an Xfinity hot spot it automatically connects. We had one bill that was $23.86 for all three phones because we were in Cancun at a resort for 2 weeks and it costs .10 cents per call and .10 cents per text. We don’t call a lot when on vacation. We vacation from cell phones also.

Quick question for the savvy: contemplating the switch from AT&T with my only concern being anticipated complaints from my 18 year old. He’s a college freshman living in Coral Gables and into instagram with viewing multiple video feeds from friends, Barstool Sports, etc. what concerns if any should I have?

Does anyone have experience in using the the Comcast Mobile services while traveling abroad?

I wondered that too. Turns out that it was because I bought a new device at the same time on a monthly, interest-free plan. The credit check was for that purchase.

I’m thinking about switching. I travel aboard frequently. Has anyone experienced any difficulties using data overseas? And is pricing reasonable?

Using eBay, I have been able to get cheap, used, iPhone SE phones ($65-$80 each) to Port numbers and get sim cards activated on Xfinity mobile. Once activated, the Sim cards seem to work fine in any unlocked, CDMA capable phone. My current phone is a Pixel 2XL.

Does Xfinity offer a mifi type device with an unlimited plan? I’m looking for internet for a tablet that doesn’t use a SIM. Right now I’m using Cricket from a cell phone for wifi/hotspot but at $70 a month I get only 30 GB of data. Help!!

Does anyone have experience with leaving wifi calling on while driving around areas that have lots of xfinity hotspots? Do you constantly experience dropped calls or disconnects for streaming music/podcasts?

Just trying to figure what happens if it is always trying to log into various hotspots while driving and you are constantly going in an out of range of various hotspots. Seems like it would be a frustrating data experience.

I switched from Verizon to Xfinity mobile on 10/26/2019 with an iPhone SE today it was allowed to carry over. The SE is basically the same thing as an iPhone 6.

I have been an Xfinity TV,voice,internet customer for years and also a Verizon wireless customer for years. At one point I switched to Tracphone for my cell service and found that too often I would not receive calls and texts until much later than they were sent because my routing was prioritized after the major carriers. So thank you for talking about that. I am moving to a place where there is NO cable service, so will need to use my phones for everything, including internet, and was concerned about lags in service. I checked into XFinity Moblie and found that even though I will have to buy 2 new phones (husband has a burner, I have a Galaxy 5, and they require a Galaxy 8 or above), AND if I am not a Cable customer I have to pay $20 per line fee, XF will still be cheaper than VZ. BUT I run a business in the new place so can’t have lags. I will definitely be looking into trying to get Verizon to cough up a better or comparable deal.

If you are already an Xfinity customer, it’s one of the cheapest ways to get a $45 access to the Verizon Network without having the 4 devices (which lowers Verizon to $45/per person at 4-5+ people). Having said that, I have an actual native Verizon iPhone (from work), and my wife has the same iPhone (personal) to Xfinity on the Verizon Network. I have the impression that the actual Verizon service tends to connect and relay data when you are on the fringe of a service area. (IE: Inside a building with a metal roof, a steel frame building with a low signal, or both phones have 1 bar). I doubt myself, because it should be the same network and the same packet prioritization. Both Verizon and Xfinity are far superior to t-mobile connectivity (bandwidth and building-penetration wise). I just sense that Xfinity data seems on the Verizon network is a hair weaker and less reliable in low-signal situations on two of the same device. However, for the price difference between Verizon and Xfinity for a single phone owner, I’ll take Xfinity all day long.

My question is …. how is XM’s service? So I’ve been a Verizon customer for years now. Currently I pay a little over $300 a month for 4 lines. And lately, I haven’t been happy with their service. Where I used to have full bars in areas I frequent esp work, I now only have 2 to 3 bars and sometimes will lose the network. I’ve called Verizon when this happens and twice I’ve had to have my phone signal reset. And it’s still doing the same thing. I’ve looked into T Mobile and for 4 lines, I would be paying $186 a month (two of those phones are 55+). They are also offering for BYOD $200 for each phone you bring. I’m still researching to see if their service is any better. I think this XM deal is great and will save me a whole lot of money since I’m already an xFinity customer. BUT how is their service on calls? Texts? Data? …. etc …..

I haven’t had any issues with the service. It runs on Verizon’s network, so if you are having issues w/ Verizon in your area, you may also have issues with Xfinity. It could be a phone (antennae) issue?

Thank you, G. E. Miller! It may be my phone because I asked my husband and kids if they were having any issues and they said no. So it maybe my phone. I just wanted to see if anyone else was having the same issues.

You could try resetting your network settings. Sometimes popping your SIM card out and back in can help.

Leave a Reply Cancel Reply

Notify me of followup comments via e-mail. You can also subscribe without commenting.

Best international phone plans in 2024 — what travelers need to know

Heading overseas? Find out what your cellphone provider charges if you use your phone

• T-Mobile phone plans
• Verizon phone plans
• AT&T phone plans
• Google Fi plans
• Other options
• Device compatibility and eSims
• 5G coverage when traveling

Before your summer travels overseas, you should look into whether you've got one of the best international phone plans for staying connected during your upcoming adventures. In the U.S., all the major wireless carriers offer some kind of travel benefit with their best cell phone plans , but they also have supplementary packages for travelers to augment the data plan you already have in place. The trick is to make sure those options keep you covered around the globe.

1. T-Mobile : Best choice for travelers 2. Verizon : TravelPass options 3. AT&T : Best for travel in Latin and Central America 4. Google Fi : An underrated traveling companion 5. Other options : Other international phone plans to consider

The best international phone plans will let you make calls and browse the web when you're in another country (though there might be a fee on top of your normal monthly rate, depending on which carrier you use). Different plans might cover different countries, and how long you plan on traveling could also impact your choice of plans. Your method of travel — be it by plane or cruise ship — also affects which plan is best for you.

All of these are things for globetrotters to consider when shopping for wireless coverage. You're going to want one of the best unlimited data plans since they tend to offer the most travel-related perks. If you haven't travelled internationally in a while, it's smart to double-check what options are out there since the best phone carriers have overhauled their plans and packages available to travelers.

Here’s a look at the travel policies and perks for the three top U.S carriers along with information on Google Fi, which offers a plan that definitely appeals to frequent travelers.

T-Mobile international phone plans

T-Mobile offers an expanded array of plans, though most of its unlimited data plan options have some benefits for overseas travel. Subscribe to Magenta, Magenta Max, Go5G, Go5G Plus or Go5G Next, and you enjoy unlimited data and texting in more than 215 countries around the world. If you want to place or receive calls, you’ll be subject to the local rate depending on where you want to go. You don’t need to notify T-Mobile of your travel for your overseas benefits to kick in.

T-Mobile Go5G Plus Plan | Unlimited Data | <a href="https://go.redirectingat.com/?id=92X1584493&xcust=hawk-custom-tracking&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.t-mobile.com%2Fcell-phone-plans&sref" data-link-merchant="SkimLinks - t-mobile.com"" target="_blank" rel="nofollow"> $90/month T-Mobile's Go5G Plus plan has the edge over Magenta Max for world travelers, even if the latter plan is $5 cheaper for a single line. That's because Go5G Plus customers get more data when traveling in Mexico and Canada (15GB vs. 10GB for Magenta Max) and 10GB more hotspot data. Otherwise, the two plans are identical: You can use your data in 215-plus countries at no extra cost. The first 5GB of data you use use will be high-speed data (with 5G speeds supported where available). The cheaper Go5G and Magenta plans ($75/month and $70/month, respectively) also feature travel benefits, including high-speed data in 11 European countries. Otherwise, data speeds are capped at 256 kbps.

Travel perks in current plans: As part of T-Mobile's Beyond Connected program, data speeds now reach 256 kbps when you're overseas. If you subscribe to either the standard Magenta or Go5G plans and you're in one of 11 European countries, you can enjoy 5GB of high-speed data every month, thanks to a partnership with T-Mobile parent Deutsche Telecom.

The perk gets better when you upgrade to either Magenta Max or Go5G Plus, both of which cost $15 more a month than their respective base plans. In that case, you can benefit from 5GB of high-speed data in 215 countries.

Go5G Next, T-Mobile's most expensive plan at $100/month for a single line, has the same travel benefits as Go5G Plus, but adds the ability to upgrade your phone every year. If that's not important to you, stick with Go5G Plus and pay $10 less each month on your wireless bill.

T-Mobile customers can take advantage of free Wi-Fi on American, Delta, Alaska Airlines and United flights. Magenta Max and Go5G Plus subscribers get full texting and Wi-Fi with streaming during flights, where wireless is available. If you go with the standard Magenta or Go5G option, you're covered on four flights per year with full streaming, plus unlimited texting; after those four flights, you can stream one hour of video. Delta SkyMiles members also get free Wi-Fi on domestic U.S. flights courtesy of T-Mobile — even if they get their wireless service from another carrier.

In Mexico and Canada, T-Mobile allows you to use up to 5GB of data whether you've got Magenta or Magenta Max; speeds are slowed to 2G after that. Go5G customers get 10GB of data in those two countries, while Go5G Plus members enjoy 15GB.

T-Mobile includes travel benefits in two of its remaining senior plans, with identical travel perks between the $100 Go5G Plus 55 option and the $120 Go5G Next 55 plan. (Note that those monthly prices cover two lines of data; one line of either Plus or Next cost $70 and $80, respectively.) Travel perks include high-speed data and text when you travel abroad, plus unlimited in-flight connectivity. When you travel to Canada or Mexico, you get 15GB of high-speed data. Both plans also include a year's membership to AAA for road travel in the U.S.

If you opt for T-Mobile's lower cost Essentials unlimited plan, you'll get 2G roaming in Canada and Mexico, but have to pay for data elsewhere.

Trip-specific passes: T-Mobile offers International Pass options for travelers who want high-speed data during lengthier stays overseas. A 5GB International Pass gives you that much high-speed data along with unlimited calling for 10 days. It costs $35. T-Mobile's $50 International Pass increases high-speed data to 15GB and extends the length of the pass to 30 days. The carrier also offers a $5 daily pass that gives you 512MB of high-speed data, and unlimited calling between the 215 or so Simple Global destinations. 

Cruise rates: Pricing on cruises will vary according to which cruise you’re taking. You can check T-Mobile’s site to see what your pricing will be.

Verizon international phone plans

Verizon phones generally work all over the world, especially if you've got a phone built in the last few years. But where you travel significantly influences how much you’ll have to pay. As for which is the best Verizon phone plan for travelers, that all depends on how frequently you go overseas. There's a clear choice for regular globetrotters, but Verizon's less expensive offerings allow you to tack on travel benefits, too.

Verizon Unlimited Ultimate | Unlimited Data | <a href="https://www.anrdoezrs.net/click-8900245-15733793?sid=hawk-custom-tracking&url=https://www.verizon.com/plans/unlimited/" data-link-merchant="verizon.com"" target="_blank" rel="nofollow"> $90/month Verizon's Unlimited Ultimate plan offers the most benefits for world travelers. Verizon promises "full international connectivity," meaning you'll be able to use talk and text for free when overseas; you also get 10GB of high-speed data every month that you can use in other countries. Unlimited Ultimate is Verizon's most expensive plan, so unless you take frequent trips, you may be better served by Unlimited Plus ($80/month for one line) or Unlimited Welcome ($65/month). Those two plans can add on a $10/month Travel Pass options that provides three days of talk, text and data when you're overseas. You can drop the Travel Pass add-on from your plan in months were you don't need it. Verizon lets family plans mix and match lines so one person can get Unlimited Ultimate, while the others subscribe to the cheaper options.

Travel perks in current plans: Of Verizon's three unlimited plans, the best for frequent travelers is the Unlimited Ultimate option, which lets you use talk and text in other countries just like you would in the U.S. You also get 10GB of high-speed data to use overseas every month.

Unfortunately, Unlimited Ultimate is Verizon's most expensive plan, costing $90 a month for one line. (And that's after a discount for enrolling autopay.) There are cheaper options — Unlimited Welcome and Unlimited Plus — that include travel perks. Both plans let you text internationally to 200-plus countries. You can also use LTE data when traveling in Mexico and Canada. You're limited to 0.5GB of data consumption per day in those two countries before your speeds are slowed to 2G, and you can't use more than half of your talk, text and data in those countries over a 60-day period.

In addition to the base Welcome Unlimited and Unlimited Plus packages, you can opt for $10 monthly add-ons for your Verizon plan — some covering streaming services, another providing hotspot data and so on. The relevant package is Verizon's $10/month 3 TravelPass Days add-on, which saves you $20 a month on travel benefits as you pick up three passes during monthly billing cycles. You can accrue up to 36 passes for using talk, text and data when traveling overseas.

Unlimited Welcome starts at $65/month for one line, while Unlimited Plus is $80. If you have a family plan, you can mix and match so that different lines of data subscribe to different plans — helpful if there's one person in the family who travels a lot and would benefit from the Unlimited Ultimate perks.

Trip-specific passes: Let's talk a little bit more about the TravelPass . It's Verizon's daily option for international coverage, and it’ll cost you $5 per day per device for each day you’re out of the country if you travel to Mexico or Canada and don't have an unlimited plan. In 185 other countries — including China, France and Germany — Verizon charges $10 per device per day. TravelPass gets you 2GB of 5G data, and unlimited data at 3G speeds after that; the passes also come with unlimited talk and text.

If you know you’ll be traveling for a bit more time, consider Verizon’s monthly option, which the carrier recommends for trips lasting at least 10 days. International Monthly Plans at Verizon cost $100/month, but in exchange, you get 250 minutes of talk, unlimited texts and 20GB of high-speed data. (Use that, and you get unlimited data at 3G speeds.)

Verizon also offers pay-as-you-go pricing for international travel. You’ll pay 99 cents per minute in Canada and Mexico, Guam and the Northern Marianas Islands. Rates go up to $1.79 in 130-plus countries and $2.99 in 80 other places. Each text message you send will cost you 50 cents, and each received text will set you back 5 cents. Your data will be charged at a rate of $2.05 per megabyte no matter where you are.

Cruise rates: Pay-as-you go rates on cruise ships cost $1.99 for each minute of talk and 50 cents for every sent text message. You’ll pay 5 cents per message received. Verizon has a data plan for cruise passengers, too, with $30/day giving you 500MB of data plus unlimited texting and 50 minutes of talk time. For in-flight connectivity, you can opt for the same pay-as-you-go rates for cruise trips or you can pay $20 per day for unlimited data.

AT&T international phone plans

AT&T also comes with varied international pricing depending on where you want to go. Canada and Mexico travel is covered in many top AT&T plans, and if you pay up for the Unlimited Premium option, you can use your plan in many Central and South American countries. Traveling elsewhere? Then you had best look into AT&T's travel passes.

AT&T Unlimited Premium| Unlimited Data | <a href="https://www.anrdoezrs.net/click-8900245-15735111?sid=hawk-custom-tracking&url=https://www.att.com/plans/wireless/" data-link-merchant="att.com"" target="_blank" rel="nofollow"> $85.99/month It's AT&T's most expensive unlimited plan, but Unlimited Premium has the best perk for travelers — you can use your talk, text and data at no extra cost in 20 Latin American countries.  As with other AT&T unlimited options, you also enjoy talk, text and data coverage when traveling in Canada and Mexico.

Travel perks in current plans: If you’re heading to Mexico or Canada, AT&T already covers all of your voice, data and text with its four different unlimited plans — Starter, Extra, Premium and the entry-level Value Plus option. AT&T offers a lone tiered data plan with 4GB of data that you can use in Canada and Mexico (though roaming may be at 2G speeds). Both unlimited and tiered data plans feature unlimited texting to 120-plus countries.

The Unlimited Premium plan is the best option for travelers headed to the Americas, as you'll be able to enjoy unlimited text, talk and data at no additional cost in 20 Central and South American countries. 

If you do a lot of international calling from home, AT&T offers unlimited calling to 85-plus countries from the U.S. for $15 per month for each line. Calls to another 140-plus countries get discounted rates under this plan.

Trip-specific passes: For anyone off to Europe, the Caribbean, Latin America or the Asia Pacific region on a short jaunt, AT&T recommends its $10-a-day International Day Pass, which comes with unlimited talk and text and data governed by your plan. (Note that each device you take overseas will need its own Day Pass.) That service is available in 210-plus countries, and you can add extra phones for just $5 a day.

You'll never have to pay for more than 10 days of day passes on any one bill, even if your trip lasts longer. International Day Passes also kick in automatically when you use your phone abroad — you get a text message letting you know you're covered.

Cruise rates: On cruises , AT&T offers a $60/month Cruise Basic plan that covers 100 minutes of talk and unlimited texting while also offering 100MB of data. Need more of everything? Then try the Cruise Plus plan ($100/month), which includes 1GB of data on top of unlimited talk and text. 

Google Fi international phone plans

If you do a lot of international traveling, don't ignore Google Fi Wireless , the wireless service set up by Google that uses cellular towers of T-Mobile and US Cellular to provide coverage. International travel is built into two of Google Fi's plans — the Unlimited Plus and Flexible options.

Google Unlimited Plus| Unlimited Data | <a href="https://fi.google.com/about/plans/" data-link-merchant="fi.google.com"" target="_blank" rel="nofollow"> $65/month The Unlimited Plus plan is the way to go with Google Fi, as you can use your data at no extra cost when traveling overseas. Google Fi customers who pay by the gigabyte of data used are also eligible for this perk.

Travel perks in current plans: You've got two options with Google Fi — tiered data through the company's Flexible plan or a pair of unlimited data options. Flexible coverage costs $20 a month for talk and text plus $10 for each GB of data you use. (Data usage is rounded off to the nearest megabyte so you only pay for the data you consume.) Google stops charging you after you use 6GB a month, meaning you'll never pay more than $80. 

If you find unlimited data plans more appealing, Google has you covered there, too — it also offers a $65 Unlimited Plus option that rolls in unlimited talk, text and data. Unlimited Plus subscribers now get a year of YouTube Premium as a perk. 

The real benefit to either Unlimited Plus or Flexible is that those plans cover you when you're traveling in 200-plus countries. When you're overseas, Google Fi charges the same rate for data usage, whether you're on an unlimited data plan or paying by the gigabyte. Voice calls cost 20 cents (though calls placed over Wi-Fi are free) and you get unlimited SMS messaging. 

Alas, Google's $50/month Simply Unlimited plan is not eligible for the free data perk when traveling. That said, all three of Google Fi's plans let you use talk, text and data in Mexico and Canada.

Google Fi is even more appealing now that Google has opened up service to all phones, including iPhones. Note that phones optimized for Google Fi — Google's Pixel phones (currently the Pixel 8 , Pixel 8 Pro , Pixel Fold and Pixel 7a )  along with a selection of Samsung phones and Motorola budget devices — can switch seamlessly between cellular networks and Google's Wi-Fi hotspots, while other phones cannot.

Trip-specific passes: Unlike the other carriers here, Google Fi doesn't offer travel passes for extended trips. Your only option is to get coverage through the Flexible and Unlimited Plus plans.

Cruise rates: Google Fi is not available when you're at sea — only when you're on land in one of the 200-plus countries covered by the carrier.

Other international phone plan options

Discount carriers typically don't provide much in the way of benefits for travelers, but there are some exceptions. The most noteworthy alternative is Visible , which has expanded the travel perks for subscribers to its $45/month Visible Plus plan .

Visible is owned by Verizon and uses its parent company's network for coverage. The Visible Plus plan features unlimited data, including access to Verizon's high-speed 5G network. Travelers will be particularly interested in the unlimited talk, text and 2GB of daily data available through Visible Plus when traveling in Canada and Mexico. Visible Plus customers are also eligible for one free Global Pass day per month, in which they can use talk, text and data at no charge in 140 countries. Globla Passes normally cost $10.

Best international phone plan: Device compatibility and eSims

Traveling overseas used to mean checking to see if your phone would be compatible once you set foot in another country. But those days are drawing to a close now that 3G networks are shutting down, eliminating much of the distinction between phones that work on either GSM and CDMA. If you've got a recent smartphone that connects to LTE, chances are strong it's going to work just fine in other countries. (You still might want to confirm that your phone works on the LTE bands available in the country you're heading to prior to your trip, just to avoid any unpleasant surprises.)

Many phones now support electronic SIM cards or eSIM technology, where you no longer need to swap in a local SIM card to make your smartphone work with an overseas network. (Since the iPhone 14 , Apple devices sold in the U.S. only feature eSIM support — that includes the newer iPhone 15 models.) One of our editors took an international trip using an eSIM for her phone and found it easy to setup and use with a local network — in fact, she plans to use the eSIM approach on all future travel. 

That said, not every country supports eSIM. And depending on your phone carrier in the U.S., you might already have options that cover your phone use in other countries.

International phone plans: What about 5G?

As noted above, many of the plans that offer international travel either have you connect at whatever speed is available locally or at a reduced speed in cases where you're drawing from your own data plan. But what if you've got a 5G phone that can connect to faster networks overseas?

For the most part, we'd expect your phone to operate as before, either at whatever speed the local network offers or a capped speed if that's part of your carrier's travel plans. However, in a few instances, U.S. phone carriers have started making deals with overseas wireless providers that allow their customers to access 5G speeds when roaming. You should check with your carrier for information about the country you're going to travel in.

Sign up to get the BEST of Tom’s Guide direct to your inbox.

Upgrade your life with a daily dose of the biggest tech news, lifestyle hacks and our curated analysis. Be the first to know about cutting-edge gadgets and the hottest deals.

Philip Michaels is a Managing Editor at Tom's Guide. He's been covering personal technology since 1999 and was in the building when Steve Jobs showed off the iPhone for the first time. He's been evaluating smartphones since that first iPhone debuted in 2007, and he's been following phone carriers and smartphone plans since 2015. He has strong opinions about Apple, the Oakland Athletics, old movies and proper butchery techniques. Follow him at @PhilipMichaels.

• Don Reisinger

AT&T sending out emails to millions whose data was stolen in massive breach — what you need to know

Super Bowl 2024 — how Verizon got Las Vegas ready for the biggest game of the year

Star Wars: Battlefront Classic Collection is a hot mess, but I can’t stop playing it — here’s why

Most Popular

By Ryan Epps January 09, 2024

By Ryan Epps January 08, 2024

By Tom Pritchard January 08, 2024

By Ryan Epps January 07, 2024

By Ryan Epps January 05, 2024

By Ryan Epps January 03, 2024

By Hunter Fenollol January 03, 2024

By Nicole Pyles October 19, 2023

By Dave Meikleham October 10, 2023

• 2 I wore Columbia's $200 Wyldwood rain jacket in my shower to test its water resistance — here's what happened
• 3 Why are people spraying alcohol on their beds and is it safe for your mattress?
• 4 I made the ultimate solar eclipse mixtape using Suno AI — here’s the results
• 5 5 best shows like 'The Regime' to watch after it ends

Xfinity Mobile is the Best Kept Secret in Wireless – But the Secret’s Out

• Share on Facebook
• Share on Twitter
• Share on LinkedIn

Xfinity Mobile is the best kept secret in wireless. But with almost six million lines added in only five years, it’s fair to say that the secret’s out. While switching mobile services can come with questions, it doesn’t need to be stressful. Let’s take a look at some of the questions that come to mind when people consider ditching their current carrier.

The biggest question is: why should I switch?

Three words: savings, speed and service. Bundling your Internet and mobile services saves you money on your wireless bill. Xfinity Internet customers who add Xfinity Mobile only pay for what they need, choosing either by the gig or an unlimited data plan option. Xfinity Mobile also has some of the most competitive pricing in the market, and families can mix-and-match depending on each person’s needs, with the flexibility to switch plans at any time during a billing cycle. You can check out all of Xfinity Mobile’s plans here .

Xfinity Mobile also consistently delivers on speed and service. It was rated the fastest mobile service with 5G and millions of WiFi hotspots in Comcast service areas by Ookla* and is one of the top-rated providers for customer satisfaction and value according to the American Customer Satisfaction Index (ACSI).

A wireless service is only as good as the network that powers it. So, is the network reliable?

Reliability is a key pillar of the entire Xfinity experience, and that extends to mobile service. Xfinity Mobile operates on the most reliable 5G network in America as a “mobile virtual network operator” (MVNO). This means customers get all the standard features they expect from the Big Three mobile providers – like 5G speeds, mobile hotspots, and never having to worry about dropped calls – but at Xfinity Mobile’s affordable price.

In addition to 5G, one of the most convenient features of Xfinity Mobile is the ability to connect to more than 22 million Xfinity hotspots across the country. Approximately 90 percent of Xfinity Mobile data traffic happens over WiFi, which means Xfinity Mobile customers use less data and save money by not eating into their data plan. By combining Xfinity WiFi with 5G from a leading network, Xfinity Mobile delivers an exceptional wireless experience.

Xfinity hotspots across the country

Are the plan options complicated?

Some mobile providers have complicated plans, offering half a dozen options that customers are locked into. Xfinity Mobile was built with simplicity in mind, offering either by the gig or unlimited options. For customers who use WiFi most of the time, Xfinity Mobile’s by the gig options are among the most competitive on the market, with plans starting at only $15. For those who need unlimited data, Xfinity Mobile offers three tiers: Unlimited Intro, Unlimited Plus, and Unlimited Premium.

Both by the gig and unlimited options offer unlimited talk and text. Families will enjoy multi-line pricing, meaning each person can choose the option that best suits their needs. And if customers find themselves streaming more than usual, it’s easy to switch between plans, even during a billing cycle.

Is it easy to make the switch?

It is. In fact, part of what makes Xfinity Mobile’s customer satisfaction so high is how easy it is to switch. Do you prefer the convenience of switching in your own home? Xfinity Mobile will ship your new SIM and walk you through how to set up an account. If you would rather have someone walk you through the process in person, a member of the Xfinity Mobile Switch Squad can handle every step for you at one of Xfinity’s stores, from swapping your SIM, porting your number, even breaking up with your previous carrier for you. And you can bring your own phone and phone number too.

And can you get the latest phones?

Absolutely. Xfinity Mobile offers the latest phones from all the major mobile device manufacturers. If you’re looking to upgrade Xfinity Mobile offers great deals on the latest devices, from iPhone to Samsung and Pixel. You can find the latest phone offers here .

Can you add your tablets or smartwatches to your plan?

Yes, and you have just as much freedom with your tablet as you do with your cell phone plan. Customers can sign up for either an unlimited or by the gig tablet plan, and can switch at any time during their billing cycle. Customers can also add wearable technology, like smartwatches, to an Xfinity Mobile plan for just $10 a month per device.

Does Xfinity Mobile offer any protection plans?

Smartphones have become essential to our daily lives. Keeping them connected and protected is a priority for most of us. And if something were to happen to them, we’d want fast, convenient options to repair or replace them, and at a low cost. Xfinity Mobile offers the Xfinity Mobile Protection Plan which provides unlimited same-day screen repairs, next business day replacement, the ability to upgrade a phone early with no upgrade fees, and unlimited live technical support for nearly any smart device in the home. This not only provides customers savings from having to pay full price to repair or replace a device but also the ability to make the most of all their smart devices.

Can you use your phone while you travel?

Customers can expect the same great Xfinity Mobile experience they get at home when they’re traveling abroad. If you plan to call or text home often and want to post pictures to social media, Xfinity Mobile’s Global Travel Pass is your best bet. For $10 a day per line, or $5 a day per line in Mexico and Canada, customers can get talk, text, and data in more than 170 countries. Xfinity Mobile also offers a pay as you go option, paying only for the calls, texts, and data customers use abroad. Just make sure your device is enabled for international data roaming and you’re good to go. More on our international plans here .

Xfinity Mobile has built a different kind of mobile network – one that’s built for the way people want to use mobile today. With a reliable network, competitive pricing, and flexibility that puts Xfinity Mobile customers in control, it’s clear to see why millions have made the switch. Visit Xfinity Mobile to learn more about the best kept secret in wireless.

*Based on consumer testing of mobile WiFi and cellular data performance from Ookla® Speedtest Intelligence® data in Q4 '22 for Comcast service areas, verified by Ookla for Comcast’s analysis.

Related Stories

More from comcast, our company, connectivity & platforms, content & experiences.

• Italy Tourism
• Italy Hotels
• Italy Bed and Breakfast
• Italy Vacation Rentals
• Flights to Italy
• Italy Restaurants
• Things to Do in Italy
• Italy Travel Forum
• Italy Photos
• All Italy Hotels
• Italy Hotel Deals
• Last Minute Hotels in Italy
• Things to Do
• Restaurants
• Vacation Rentals
• Travel Stories
• Rental Cars
• Add a Place
• Travel Forum
• Travelers' Choice
• Help Center

Using xfinity mobile in Europe - Italy Forum

• Europe    
• Italy    

Using xfinity mobile in Europe

• United States Forums
• Europe Forums
• Canada Forums
• Asia Forums
• Central America Forums
• Africa Forums
• Caribbean Forums
• Mexico Forums
• South Pacific Forums
• South America Forums
• Middle East Forums
• Honeymoons and Romance
• Business Travel
• Train Travel
• Traveling With Disabilities
• Tripadvisor Support
• Solo Travel
• Bargain Travel
• Timeshares / Vacation Rentals
• Europe forums
• Italy forum

What other options would you recommend?

7 replies to this topic

If you do not add the International Global Pass to your account, then you would be charged roaming fees if you use your phone outside of a WiFi Zone in those countries.

Have a look at the International Phone plans offered by xfinity and decide if the fees are worth the amount of time with Data, text and voice calls that you will be using. Remember that when you are in your hotel or whenever you are signed into WiFi, then all that is free on your phone.

When away from the hotel, then you'll find many restaurants will have Wifi. If you do not have a plan, then you should turn the phone off so that it will not receive data, texts or calls. I read you plan from your carrier and it is a very good plan. I would go with that and not purchase a European SIM card for your phone. It's not worth the hassle.

We’re doing a very similar trip early this summer and have X-finity Mobile. There are two options with X-finity. The Global Travel Pass and Pay-as-you-go. The travel pass is $10 per day per device and basically allows you to use whatever plan you have abroad (unlimited or by the gig). The pay-as-you-go option charges you for each text message, minutes on the phone, and Internet. The costs vary by country. The Internet usage is VERY expensive, but text messages and minutes are not too bad.

I used Airalo this past summer when in France for a couple of weeks and it worked great. I decided on Airalo because they have 5G where available rather than only LTE with Holafly.

Since you’ll be in several countries you will likely need to purchase separate eSims.

For example, Airolo eSIM prices are $10 for 3GB data

in Italy, France and Switzerland . You don’t say how long you will be in each place but for $30 you should have more than enough data to meet your needs for at least a couple of weeks (vs only 3 days total) in each place (assuming you’ll also have wifi at your lodging). You can by smaller data plans for less $.

Turn off data roaming on your xfinity line and use your xfinity number just for calls when needed, wifi calling, FaceTime and WhatsApp calls are free but if you’re out and about and have to make a call, the international calling rates are minimal. Like Joe T says, it’s the cost of data roaming on the pay as you go plan that gets you.

Your phone must be unlocked (which since you have xfinity mobile I assume it i, but check that). My friend’s phone was locked by AT&T and she could buy the eSIM in the U.S. and load it onto her phone just fine but when she got here it didn’t work. Also check to make sure your phone is new enough to be compatible with an eSIM. Mine is a couple of years old and it works fine, so it doesn’t have to be the latest. The eSIM companies recommended (Airolo and Alosim) list compatible models on their websites & apps.

Have a great trip!

FYI - I use Google Maps on my phone. You can download off-line maps of your destinations before I travel so that I can still see where I am. Directions will not work when off-line.

• Honeymoon in Tuscany- Mid to late September 9:24 pm
• Nail Salon 9:15 pm
• Ferry from Piombino to Portoferraio 9:08 pm
• Scopello and Cars 8:50 pm
• Early train ride from Milano centrale 8:26 pm
• Restaurant prices 8:06 pm
• Sicily or Puglia 7:58 pm
• Catania to Portorosa 7:55 pm
• 3 full days in Bellagio--Day trip to Milan? 7:51 pm
• Arrival/transportation logistics FCO > Naples 7:42 pm
• Howe early to arrive at Linate airport for flight 7:26 pm
• Tipping tattoo artists 7:22 pm
• Infiorata di Noto 7:19 pm
• Places to visit 7:19 pm
• Best time of year to visit Italy 3 replies
• What to Buy in Italy? 5 replies
• BNL D'Italia Bank locations 35 replies
• Train from Milan to Monaco 2 replies
• train from Milan to Cinque Terre 13 replies
• 5 Best Cities to Visit 48 replies
• Frecciarossa vs Frecciargento 13 replies
• simple explanation please for "allora....alora " 6 replies
• Milan to Lucca 9 replies
• Northern Italy - Lake Como & Switzerland 4 replies

Italy Hotels and Places to Stay

• TIPS FOR FIRST TIME TRAVELLERS
• How to use the trains in Italy
• Thinking of renting a car? Read this first
• Ultimate Guide to Driving in Italy
• Tips for travellers to Italy (based on our recent travels)

• Switch skin

Xfinity Global Travel Pass | Explore the World Seamlessly

Table of Contents

Introduction to Xfinity Global Travel Pass

Unveil the world of boundless exploration with the Xfinity Global Travel Pass. Understand its significance in making global travel smooth and effortless, and how it stands out in the travel industry .

How Xfinity Global Pass Revolutionizes Travel

Discover how Xfinity Global Travel Pass is pioneering a change in global travel. Experience unparalleled ease and convenience as you traverse the globe, making every journey memorable.

Xfinity Global Travel Pass: Key Features

Explore the myriad key features of Xfinity Global Pass. From universal connectivity to robust customer support, learn how each feature contributes to an exceptional travel experience.

The Power of Global Connectivity

With Xfinity Global Travel Pass, stay connected across the globe. Enjoy uninterrupted communication and internet services, ensuring you remain in touch, always and everywhere.

Exploring the World with Xfinity Global Travel Pass

Travel the world effortlessly with Xfinity Global Pass. Delight in the benefits that make every trip hassle-free, ensuring your global adventures are nothing short of extraordinary.

Ease of Access with Xfinity Global Pass

Enjoy unrivaled ease of access with Xfinity Global Travel Pass, your passport to seamless global exploration. Journey across the world, experiencing the ultimate travel convenience.

Cost Efficiency of Xfinity Global Pass

Save substantially on your global travels with Xfinity Global Pass. Analyze the cost-efficient aspects, ensuring every trip you take is economically friendly, adding value to each adventure.

Navigating the Xfinity Global Pass Interface

Master the user-friendly interface of Xfinity Global Travel Pass. Navigate effortlessly, ensuring you capitalize on each feature, enhancing your global travel experience.

Xfinity Global Travel Pass Customer Support

Experience stellar customer support with Xfinity Global Pass. Resolve queries and issues promptly, ensuring your travels remain uninterrupted and thoroughly enjoyable.

Global Coverage of Xfinity Global Travel Pass

With Xfinity Global Pass, enjoy extensive global coverage. Explore the farthest corners of the world, staying connected and secure, enhancing your travel experience remarkably.

Travel Security with Xfinity Global Pass

Ensure your travel is secure with Xfinity Global Pass. Benefit from robust security features, making every journey safe, giving you peace of mind as you explore the globe.

Xfinity Global Travel Pass User Testimonials

Read genuine user testimonials about Xfinity Global Pass. Gain insights from real-world experiences of fellow travelers, reinforcing your choice for global travel solutions.

Comprehensive Guide to Getting Started with Xfinity Global Travel Pass

Begin your global adventures with a step-by-step guide to using Xfinity Global Pass. Simplify your travel preparations, ensuring you are well-equipped for every journey.

Making the Most of Xfinity Global Pass

Maximize the benefits of Xfinity Global Travel Pass with useful tips and tricks. Enhance every travel experience, ensuring each journey is as enjoyable as possible.

Troubleshooting Common Issues with Xfinity Global Pass

Tackle common issues head-on with Xfinity Global Pass’ troubleshooting guide. Ensure your travel remains hassle-free and enjoyable, devoid of unexpected hiccups.

Xfinity Global Pass: Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers to your queries with the Xfinity Global Travel Pass FAQ section. Stay informed and prepared, ensuring every global expedition is smooth and trouble-free.

The Future of Global Travel with Xfinity Global Travel Pass

• Peer into the future of global travel with Xfinity Global Pass. Stay abreast of upcoming enhancements, ensuring your travel experiences continuously improve.

Comparing Xfinity Global Pass with Other Global Travel Solutions

Xfinity global travel pass: the eco-friendly choice.

Choose eco-friendliness with Xfinity Global Pass. Contribute to environmental conservation while enjoying top-notch global travel services, blending enjoyment with responsibility.

Making Global Discoveries with Xfinity Global Pass

• Make incredible global discoveries with Xfinity Global travel Pass. Explore unique and breathtaking destinations, creating memories that will last a lifetime.

Xfinity Global Pass: The Ultimate Travel Companion

• Conclude with understanding of why Xfinity Global Pass is your ultimate travel companion. Relish the countless benefits that ensure each trip is a delightful adventure.

Getting Your Xfinity Global Pass Today

• Learn how to secure your Xfinity Global Travel Pass today. Embark on your global exploration journey with the assurance of seamless connectivity, security, and unmatched convenience.

In the realm of global travel, the Xfinity Global Pass emerges as an unmatched companion. It promises seamless connectivity, unmatched security, and an array of features designed for the modern traveler. The comprehensive coverage ensures you’re never out of touch, no matter how far your adventures take you. From cost efficiency to eco-friendliness, the Xfinity Global Travel Pass stands as a beacon of convenient and responsible global exploration. Secure your Xfinity Global Passtoday and embark on a journey where every destination is a step towards unparalleled discovery and unforgettable memories.

FAQ’s

What is xfinity global travel pass.

Xfinity Global Travel Pass is a revolutionary service ensuring seamless, secure, and convenient global connectivity and travel, making your international journeys hassle-free.

How does Xfinity Global Travel Pass enhance global connectivity?

Xfinity Global Travel Pass provides uninterrupted communication and internet services worldwide, allowing you to stay connected with ease during your travels.

Is Xfinity Global Travel Pass cost-efficient?

Absolutely! Xfinity Global Travel Pass is designed for economical global travel, offering substantial savings and value-added services for every trip.

How secure is traveling with Xfinity Global Travel Pass?

Xfinity Global Travel Pass prioritizes your security, offering robust features to ensure your safety and peace of mind while exploring the world.

How can I get my Xfinity Global Travel Pass?

Secure your Xfinity Global Travel Pass easily by visiting the official website, following the step-by-step guide to sign up, and embark on your global adventures today.

Your opinion is golden - rate us now!

Your opinion is priceless to us! Help us improve and serve you better by sharing your thoughts. Rate us now and be a part of our journey to excellence!

Amc Adventure Travel | Expert Tips and Advice for You

Boston to niagara falls tour | your gateway to splendor, what is octopath traveler 2 black market | solo guide, groundhog day crafts for toddlers how to make | full guide, life insurance by appxo.in | your travel safety blueprint, select quote whole life insurance | unlock savings now, central american independence day | freedom celebrations, how to take melatonin for relief | jet lag flying east, related articles.

Last Minute Travel Deals Costco | A Full Guide

5 Best Budget-friendly Beach Resorts In The World

Luxury Hotels Westchester NY | Your Great Elegant Escape

Gotrax Tour XP Scooter Adventures | With Unique Rides

Exploring Science Museum: Great Unleashing Curiosity

Weekend Getaway Finger Lakes NY | Serenity, Scenic Beauty

Leave a reply cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Getting Started

Contributor

125 Messages

Sunday, February 19th, 2023 12:49 AM

What is the best way to use your Xfinity mobile phone internationally?

I am going to be traveling to Europe later this year and want to know the best way to deal with my phone so I don't get a surprise bill for several hundred dollars.  I see there is a Global Travel Pass for $10 per day or a pay as you go.  I probably won't be using it that much, maybe just to call home a couple times or to call or text the other people that are with us.  If data is that expensive, I can probably go without it for much of the time and just use wifi at night at the hotel.  Is there a better option than what is offered here?   What about these international sim cards I see that look a lot cheaper?  What is the best route to go?  

9 months ago

Accepted Solution

Problem Solver

742 Messages

Based on your criteria above your best bet might be the following:

1.) Set up Global Travel Pass now, even though you might not use it. You can always turn it off, and use pay as you go, or turn off data roaming to not use either of them. 

2.) If your phone is unlocked and you have a SIM or eSIM available, check out Truphone which is a vey inexpensive data only cellular service, and then use WhatsApp, or other non carrier service for calls and messaging between you and your friends at home or traveling with you. Or just use Truphone for maps and other data purposes. Remember that if you are on a pay by the gig plan you will still pay you $15/GB even if you use the GTP. 

3.) Use WiFi Calling at night if you are not using the GTP. 

A lot depends on whether your traveling companions are using travel passes or not?

@DaveO3 ​ Hey thanks for the answer.  I should have mentioned that we are going to be there for like 25 days so I don't really want to spend $250 for a Global Travel Pass on both my phone and my wife's.  I wasn't thinking, and just bought a new phone so it won't be unlocked for a while, but hers is.  So it sounds like data will be the expensive thing here, right?  On the GTP, it says you get 512 MB and then do you pay the $15/GB after that?  I was thinking maybe the pay as you go and then disable mobile data so then you won't get charged for any data, right?  Then we can just pay 10 cents per text or 30 cents per minute to talk.  If we need data, we can do that at the hotel wifi like you said, or maybe get Truphone on my wife's unlocked phone.

Mostly correct. The 512MB is just the limit on high speed data per day on the GTP. 

It’s important to know that if a phone is on by-the-gig then XM counts the data used for visual voicemail and for the data for MMS (any picture etc. added to a simple text/SMS), so when you disable XM cellular data, they are disabled. So email pictures and video while on WiFi, and get voicemail while on WiFi calling. 

It’s important know the difference between powering a phone on/off, airplane mode on/off, cellular data on/off, data roaming on/off!

@DaveO3 ​ I am going to ask a followup on this since it is getting closer to that time.  So I am going to rule out the GTP, as I don't want to pay close to $500 to have it on two phones.  My wife's phone is paid off and unlocked so I will look into getting an eSIM for that, even if it is data only, because then we can still use it with whatsapp or something like that.  Will wifi calling even work with that?  I suppose if not, what do I need to do to enable the Xfinity pay as you go?  It will be fine to spend the 10 cents per text if we need it like that.

As far as my phone, since it is not paid off, I thought about getting an eSIM for my daughter's phone that allows tethering.  She will always be nearby so I can just connect to it like a hot spot and use the same wifi features I mentioned above.  Would that work?

@D-man ​ I think that you have it figured out pretty well. As far as an eSIM, Maya Mobile seems to have better coverage than others? Look at eSIMdb.com. 

XfinityMarcus

Official Employee

457 Messages

@dave03 provided great information on options to take while looking for access to your mobile device internationally @D-man. If you plan on being out of the country for an extended period, an eSIM would certainly not be a bad idea.

View other replies

New to the Community?

How to Prep Your Phone for International Travel

January 06, 2020

International travel is exciting, but it can also cause a lot of anxiety, especially if it’s your first time abroad. One of the things people often worry about is whether or not they’ll be able to use their Android phone or iPhone internationally , and, if so, how much it will cost. A little planning can ease these concerns so you can focus on the fun.

Will your phone work?

The first step in your journey is to make sure your Android or iPhone settings for international travel will work in the country you’re visiting. While cell phone technology is rapidly changing, there are still two competing standards (CDMA and GMA) that may impact your phone’s compatibility during your travels. The good news is that you don’t need to understand the technology to figure it out. Check your provider's website or contact them, tell them where you’re traveling, and ask them:

• If your phone is compatible.
• If they have any special packages for international use.
• To activate your mobile roaming plan for the countries you plan to visit.
• To email you the rates you can expect while away.

Bring a compatible plug

Electrical outlets around the world aren’t a standard shape or the same voltage. While your phone charger is likely capable of handling the change in voltage, you may need an adapter to plug your phone charger in. Travel adapters are inexpensive and sometimes include several attachments so they can work across the globe. Bring multiple adapters if you tend to use several items at a time, such as your phone, laptop, and hairdryer.

Save money along the way

International phone use is notoriously pricey, but there is no reason it should break the bank. A little knowledge and smart planning can go a long way. These four tips will help you save:

• Turn off mobile data. The best money-saving tactic is to turn off your mobile data. Most newer phones have an easily accessible button in settings that toggles data use on and off. If not, look under Network & Internet settings for the option. Turning off your mobile data prevents your phone from updating apps, downloading email, and sending messages beyond basic SMS texts. You can also turn off roaming data access , which specifically blocks access to data on networks other than your home network. Don’t worry about being completely off the grid — WiFi will keep you connected.
• Airplane mode. Airplane mode is not just for airplanes. On most phones, it quickly disables WiFi, data, and incoming/outgoing calls and texts. You can typically turn WiFi on while leaving the rest of your device in airplane mode. Before you leave home, check that your airplane mode is behaving as intended by enabling it and calling your phone from another line.
• Make use of free WiFi. From cafes, to hotels, to museums, WiFi is readily available almost everywhere. Take advantage of free WiFi to make WiFi calls , send emails, browse the web, and send messages via WiFi-based apps like iMessage and Google Hangouts. Keep in mind that public WiFi is not secure , so don't handle your banking or other sensitive matters. It may also be slow, so plan ahead if you’d like to upload photos or video.
• Look for other available discounts. For example, Xfinity Mobile offers a Mexico & Canada Call Pass . It’s just $10 a month per line for unlimited calls from the U.S. to Canada or Mexico. Your family can call you all they like for one low price if you provide a local number. Additionally, stay connected while traveling abroad with Xfinity Mobile and Global Travel Pass . Get over 500 MB of LTE data each day, so you can browse online and access your apps with no added fees.

These cell phone international tips can help ensure you can stay connected while keeping costs down, but none of them will matter unless you do your homework in advance. Reach out to your provider, double check your power adapter, and get to know the settings on your phone.

iPhone 14 Pro

Experience iPhone in a whole new way with Dynamic Island and Always-On display.

• Copy To Clipboard
• Share On Facebook
• Share On Twitter
• Share On Email

Related Articles

Free TV & Movies

Free this week — free entertainment, no strings attached.

Apple Releases iPhone 15: Here’s What You Need to Know

Entertainment

Xfinity is the home of football .