Cricket Wireless In Belize: Does It Work?

Cricket Wireless is a US-based wireless service provider that offers various phone plans, including prepaid and postpaid options. The company also provides international services, allowing users to send unlimited text messages to select countries. However, it is unclear if Belize is included in these countries. On the other hand, Belize has its own telecommunication companies, such as Belize Telemedia Limited and SMART SPEEDNET, which offer cellular and internet services in the country. These local companies provide different plans and options for both locals and tourists, including the option to purchase SIM cards and phones.

Cricket Wireless in Belize: SIM card options

Cricket Wireless is a popular mobile virtual network operator (MVNO) that is owned by AT&T and offers affordable cell phone plans with all taxes and fees included in their pricing. While Cricket Wireless does not work in Belize, there are several international add-ons that you can use to stay connected while travelling in the country.

Cricket Wireless International:

For $5/month, this add-on gives you unlimited calls to landlines in 35 countries. However, it does not include Belize.

Cricket Wireless International Extra:

For $15/month, this add-on includes unlimited calls to landlines in 35 countries, unlimited picture/video messaging to 35 countries, and 1,000 mobile-to-mobile minutes to 31 countries. Belize is not included in this plan.

Cricket Wireless Individual Country Add-On:

The price of this add-on depends on the country and ranges from $10/month to $15/month. It provides a select number of calling minutes to landlines and/or mobile phones in the country of your choice, as well as unlimited text, picture, and video messaging from the U.S. to that country. Unfortunately, Belize is not listed as one of the available countries for this add-on.

While Cricket Wireless does not offer specific SIM card options for Belize, you can consider purchasing a local SIM card upon arrival in Belize to stay connected during your stay.

Using Cricket Wireless in Belize: Costs and charges

Cricket Wireless offers a range of services and plans that can be used in Belize, but there may be additional costs and charges involved. Here's a detailed breakdown of what you need to know:

Cricket Wireless Services in Belize

Cricket Wireless provides wireless services in Belize, but the availability and coverage may vary depending on your specific location within the country. It's important to check the coverage map on their website to determine if your intended areas of use are included. Additionally, Cricket Wireless offers a 14-day free trial, allowing you to test their service without committing to a long-term plan.

International Calling and Texting

Cricket Wireless offers international calling and texting services, which can be useful when travelling to Belize. Their Cricket International and Cricket International Extra plans provide unlimited calling and texting to select countries. However, it's important to note that Belize is not listed as one of the included countries as of November 6, 2020. You may need to purchase an additional individual country add-on for Belize to utilize these services during your stay.

Roaming Charges

When using your Cricket Wireless plan in Belize, you may incur roaming charges. These charges can vary depending on your specific plan and usage. It's important to review the terms and conditions of your plan to understand the potential costs associated with roaming. Additionally, you can contact Cricket Wireless customer support to inquire about any applicable roaming charges for Belize.

Data Usage

Data usage while travelling in Belize can result in additional charges. Cricket Wireless offers roaming data access, but the speeds and availability may differ from your regular plan. It's important to monitor your data usage to avoid unexpected charges. Utilizing Wi-Fi whenever possible can help reduce data usage and associated costs.

Alternative Options

If you anticipate frequent or extended use of wireless services in Belize, you may consider alternative options to avoid excessive roaming charges. One option is to purchase a local SIM card in Belize, which will provide you with a local phone number and potentially more affordable rates. You can also explore other telecommunication companies operating in Belize, such as Digicell or SMART, and compare their plans and rates to find a suitable option.

In conclusion, while Cricket Wireless does offer services in Belize, it's important to be mindful of potential costs and charges. Understanding the specifics of your plan, utilizing Wi-Fi when possible, and exploring alternative options can help you manage your wireless expenses during your stay in Belize.

Belize's cellular service coverage

Belize has a well-developed cellular network that covers most of the country and some marine areas near major coastal population centers. The country's cellular phone and internet access rates are the highest in Central America.

The Belize Telemedia Limited, a government-owned company, is the major telecommunication service provider in Belize. It offers its services under the "Digicell" brand, which operates on the GSM dual-band 850/1900 MHz technology and the 4G LTE network provided by Huawei infrastructure. Digicell offers both Post and Pre-Paid plans. The Post-Paid plans, also known as the Digi Premier Plan, are popular among businesspersons, locals, and expatriates as they come with a permanent cell number. In the event of a lost or damaged phone or SIM card, a replacement SIM can be obtained for a small fee, retaining the same number. As of April 2023, Digicell offers eSIMS to its customers.

The second telecommunication company in Belize is SMART SPEEDNET, a privately-held company. SMART offers similar services to Digicell but utilizes the CDMA network spectrum. SMART's prices are slightly more affordable compared to Digicell.

For international travelers visiting Belize, it is important to note that their cell phones may work in the country, depending on their carrier. Some carriers, such as Sprint, can result in high roaming charges. It is recommended to enable international services on your phone to reduce costs. Alternatively, purchasing a local SIM card or a cheap unlocked phone in Belize can be more cost-effective, allowing you to use local prepaid plans.

Cricket Wireless phone compatibility in Belize

Cricket Wireless is a US-based wireless phone service provider that offers various plans, including unlimited calls, texts, and picture messages across the US. The company also provides international services, such as unlimited international texting and calling to select countries. However, it is important to note that these international services are intended for users whose primary usage occurs in the United States.

When it comes to phone compatibility in Belize, there are a few factors to consider. Firstly, Belize is served by two major cellular service providers: Belize Telemedia Limited, a government-owned company, and SMART SPEEDNET, a privately held company. Belize Telemedia Ltd. offers its service under the "Digicell" brand, which operates on the GSM dual-band 850/1900 MHz technology and the 4G LTE network. On the other hand, SMART Telecom Belize uses the CDMA network spectrum.

To use your Cricket Wireless phone in Belize, it is essential to ensure that your device is compatible with the local networks. Both Belize Telemedia Ltd. and SMART Telecom Belize offer GSM and CDMA network options, respectively. Therefore, if your Cricket Wireless phone supports GSM or CDMA networks, it may be compatible with one of the local providers in Belize. However, it is always recommended to check with your specific phone model and the network bands it supports.

Additionally, international roaming charges can be expensive, and it is essential to consider the rates and plans offered by Cricket Wireless for international usage. Cricket Wireless offers international add-on features for a monthly fee, which may be necessary for using your phone in Belize. It is recommended to review the terms and conditions of Cricket Wireless's international services to understand the coverage, rates, and any limitations.

Another option for using a phone in Belize is to purchase a local SIM card or a local phone rental service. This can be more cost-effective than relying solely on international roaming. You can acquire a Belizean number and purchase prepaid cards to add minutes to your phone. Alternatively, you can consider buying an inexpensive unlocked phone and then purchasing a local SIM card to use while in Belize.

Cricket Wireless alternatives in Belize

Belize has a national telecommunications company, Belize Telemedia Ltd., which offers cellular service under the "Digicell" brand. This service runs on the GSM dual-band 850/1900 MHz technology and the 4G LTE network. While it does not cover the entire country, it provides coverage in most areas, including certain marine areas near major coastal population centers.

If you're looking for alternatives to Cricket Wireless in Belize, here are some options:

• SMART SPEEDNET: This is a privately held company that offers similar services to Digicell. SMART operates on the CDMA network spectrum and typically offers slightly lower prices.
• Quicksilver Go Phone: This service is mentioned as an option for visitors to Belize, providing local phone rentals and a well-received service.
• Local SIM Cards: You can purchase a SIM card in Belize to get a local number. This option is often cheaper than using your own phone with international roaming.
• Unlocked Phones: If you have an unlocked phone, you can use a local SIM card to access cellular networks in Belize. This allows you to benefit from local rates and avoid high roaming charges.

It is recommended to research the specific requirements and compatibility of your phone with the networks in Belize before your trip. Additionally, consider factors such as coverage in your intended areas of stay and your preferred type of phone plan (prepaid or postpaid).

Frequently asked questions