Using Telcel Services In Belize: What You Need To Know

If you're planning a trip to Belize and are wondering whether your Telcel phone will work there, the answer is: it depends. Telcel phones bought in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico, will work in Belize, but calls will be charged at roaming rates, which can be expensive. To avoid this, you could purchase a local SIM card in Belize, such as DigiCell or Smart, though these tend to be more expensive than in other countries. Alternatively, you could consider buying a cheap unlocked phone and using a local SIM card, or rely on WiFi and use apps for communication.

Telcel roaming charges in Belize

Telcel is a Mexican telecommunications company that offers wireless services to its customers. If you are a Telcel customer and plan to travel to Belize, it is important to be aware of the potential roaming charges that may apply.

Firstly, it is important to understand the concept of roaming. Roaming refers to the ability to use your mobile phone services – such as voice calls, SMS, and data – when travelling outside of your home network area. When you are in Belize, your Telcel phone will be roaming on local Belizean networks, and you may incur additional charges for using these services.

The roaming charges you may experience as a Telcel customer in Belize can vary depending on several factors, including your plan type, the amount of data you use, the number of voice calls and SMS you send or receive, and the specific Telcel plan you have.

To avoid unexpected charges, it is recommended that you contact Telcel customer support or visit a Telcel store before your trip to understand the roaming rates and options available to you. They can provide you with the most up-to-date and accurate information regarding their international roaming plans and any associated charges.

Additionally, there are a few alternative options to consider if you want to avoid high roaming charges while in Belize:

• Buy a local SIM card in Belize: You can purchase a prepaid SIM card from a local Belizean mobile provider, which will allow you to make local calls, send SMS, and use data at local rates. This option may be more cost-effective if you plan to use your phone extensively during your trip.
• Use Wi-Fi whenever possible: Many hotels, restaurants, and public places in Belize offer free Wi-Fi. By connecting to Wi-Fi, you can avoid using your mobile data and minimize roaming charges. You can use Wi-Fi to access messaging apps, make voice calls, and browse the internet without incurring additional costs.
• International roaming plans: Telcel may offer specific international roaming plans or add-ons that can help reduce roaming charges. These plans may include a set amount of data, voice minutes, or SMS that can be used while travelling in Belize.

In summary, if you are a Telcel customer travelling to Belize, it is important to be aware of potential roaming charges. By understanding your plan, contacting Telcel for specific rates, and considering alternative options, you can stay connected while avoiding unexpected costs during your trip.

Using a local SIM card in Belize

Belize has a national telecommunications company, Belize Telemedia Limited, which offers cellular service under the "Digicell" brand. Digicell offers a digital service on the GSM dual-band 850/1900 MHz technology and a 4G LTE network. You can purchase a Digicell SIM card for BZ$20 (USD$10) plus tax, which comes with BZ$10 in credit. SIM cards can be found at official stores, gas stations, convenience stores, and electronic repair shops.

Smart SPEEDNET is another privately-held mobile phone company in Belize. However, its services are limited and are only available to visitors staying in small villages.

If you are planning to stay in Belize for a short period, you can use your hotel's phone. For longer stays, you can buy or rent a mobile phone or get a landline. You can also purchase a local SIM card or buy a prepaid one from a local provider if you have an unlocked cell phone.

Cell Plans in Belize

Cell plans in Belize are either Post or Pre-Paid. Post-Paid plans are attractive for business people, Belizeans, or expatriates as the cell number is permanent. Pre-paid plans are more suitable for short-term visitors.

International Roaming

If you are planning to spend only a few days in Belize, you may activate international roaming on your mobile phone. However, international call prices can be very high.

Coverage

Belize is well-served by cellular service, covering most of the country and certain marine areas close to major coastal population centers. However, there are still some remote areas, small villages, and uninhabited locations where there is no cell phone coverage.

Buying a cheap cell phone in Belize

Belize has a well-developed cellular network, with two major providers: DigiCell and Smart. DigiCell is the cellular division of Belize Telemedia Limited, which was the only telecom company in the country until 2003 and remains government-owned. Smart is a private company that has been operating since 2005.

Both companies offer prepaid and postpaid plans. DigiCell's postpaid plans are marketed towards business people, Belizeans, and expatriates. Smart's services are more limited and are only available in small villages.

If you're looking for a cheap cell phone in Belize, you have a few options:

• Buy a low-cost phone from a local store: You can find new and used cell phones for sale at various shops in Belize, including electronics stores and phone shops. For example, Belize Future Signal offers a range of phones, including the Samsung Galaxy A12 for $475 BZD.
• Purchase a prepaid phone and SIM card: DigiCell offers prepaid SIM cards for BZ$20 (USD$10) plus tax, which includes BZ$10 in credit. You can find DigiCell SIM cards at official stores, gas stations, convenience stores, and electronic repair shops.
• Bring your own unlocked phone and purchase a local SIM card: If you have an unlocked cell phone, you can buy a local SIM card from either DigiCell or Smart. This option may be more cost-effective if you plan to stay in Belize for an extended period.
• Use a travel eSIM: If your phone doesn't have a physical SIM card slot, you can consider using a travel eSIM like Airalo. However, this option can be expensive and may only offer data without a local number.

When choosing a cell phone plan in Belize, it's important to consider your usage needs and budget. Both DigiCell and Smart offer a range of bundles with data, calls, and texts. International roaming rates can be high, so it may be more cost-effective to use a local SIM card or purchase a cheap phone if you plan to stay in Belize for a while.

Additionally, keep in mind that cell phone and internet access rates in Belize are the highest in Central America, and data speeds may be affected during the rainy season from June to October.

DigiCell vs. Smart

Belize's telecommunication industry is dominated by one company: Belize Telemedia Limited. DigiCell, the cellular division of the company, used to be the only option for a prepaid SIM card in the country. However, now there is another option: Smart! by Smart Speednet Communications.

Coverage

DigiCell has a wide coverage area, whereas Smart! has very limited services and is only available to visitors in small villages.

Top-up services

Every other door will have a sign for DigiCell top-up services, whereas only a handful will have it for Smart!

SIM card availability

DigiCell SIM cards are widely available all over the country: official stores, gas stations, convenience stores, and electronic repair shops. Smart! SIM cards are harder to come by.

Plan options

DigiCell offers both Post and Pre-Paid plans. The Digi Premier Plan, a Post-Paid plan, is attractive to business people, Belizeans, or expatriates as the cell number is permanent. If you lose your SIM card, you can get a replacement for a nominal charge with the same number. DigiCell also offers a range of data-only and call-and-text-included bundles.

Smart! offers slightly lower prices compared to DigiCell.

ESIMs

Both DigiCell and Smart! offer eSIMs to their customers.

International calls

If you want to make international calls, you can use your mobile phone with a local network. You can also make and receive calls at any public or private BTL office.

Overall recommendation

DigiCell is the way to go for most travellers.

International plans for Canadians

If you're a Canadian travelling to Belize, there are a few things you should know about staying connected. Firstly, it's important to note that wireless internet is available in Belize, but the signal strength may not be as strong as what you're used to in Canada. However, you can still use your mobile phone to make and receive calls by visiting internet cafes or using a landline.

If you have an unlocked cell phone, you have the option to purchase a local SIM card or a prepaid SIM card from a local provider. DigiCell is the main provider in Belize, with wide coverage, and you can easily find SIM cards for sale in official stores, gas stations, convenience stores, and electronic repair shops. Smart! is another option, but their services are more limited and mainly available in small villages.

When it comes to international plans, Canadians travelling to Belize should check with their Canadian service provider to see if they offer any specific international plans or add-ons. It's also worth considering a travel eSIM, which can provide data without the need for a physical SIM card. Airalo is one provider that offers eSIM services in Belize, although it can be quite expensive.

To stay connected in Belize, you may also want to download offline maps and navigation apps before your trip, such as Google Maps. Additionally, maintaining a charge on your cellphone is recommended for safety reasons.

Lastly, it's important to be aware of the high levels of violent crime in Belize, including gang and drug-related violence. Tourists are not usually targeted, but it's crucial to stay vigilant and follow local safety advice.

Frequently asked questions