Unlocked Phones: Using At&T In Belize

If you're planning a trip to Belize and want to stay connected, you may be wondering if your AT&T phone will work there. The answer is yes, but there are some important considerations. Firstly, international roaming is not supported on prepaid plans, so if you're a prepaid customer, you won't have service in Belize. For postpaid customers, adding a roaming plan or international day pass is essential to avoid high fees. While in Belize, you can use your AT&T phone with GSM technology and a SIM card, which is compatible with local providers like Digicell. Alternatively, you can purchase a local SIM card or a cheap unlocked phone to use with a prepaid plan, ensuring you stay connected without incurring hefty charges.

International Day Pass

AT&T's International Day Pass is a great option for those travelling abroad who want to stay connected without the hassle of buying a new SIM card. For $12 per day, you can use your phone just like you would at home, with unlimited high-speed data, talk and text, in over 210 destinations. This includes 5G International access where available.

The International Day Pass only charges you for the days that you use your phone, and there is no extra charge after ten days per line, per bill. This means that you can continue to use the International Day Pass for the remainder of your billing cycle at no additional charge after the first ten days. You will only be charged one daily fee even if you travel to multiple destinations in one day.

The International Day Pass is easy to sign up for and will remain on your account whenever you travel internationally unless you remove it. If you forget to sign up, AT&T will add it to smartphones with eligible rate plans when you arrive at your destination and will send a text to confirm.

The International Day Pass has been reviewed positively by many customers who have used it for extended periods of time, with some noting that it is convenient and works seamlessly in most countries. However, it is important to note that the plan does not work in every country, and it is recommended to check the list of included destinations before travelling.

Roaming charges

Firstly, it is important to note that AT&T uses GSM technology, which is compatible with the local network in Belize. This means that your AT&T phone will work in Belize, but you may incur roaming charges.

If you have a prepaid AT&T plan, your phone will not work in Belize at all. For postpaid plans, you will need to add an international roaming package to avoid high fees. AT&T offers the International Day Pass, which costs $12 per day and allows you to use your phone in Belize just like you would in the US. This includes unlimited talk, text, and high-speed data. This is a good option if you want to avoid unexpected charges, as the daily fee structure ensures you only pay for the days you use your phone.

If you don't opt for an international plan, you will be charged pay-per-use rates for any calls, texts, or data usage. These rates can vary by destination and usage type, so it is important to review the rates before your trip. Additionally, you can also buy a local SIM card in Belize, which will give you a local number and allow you to purchase prepaid credits for calls, texts, and data. This can be a more cost-effective option, especially if you are staying for an extended period.

Lastly, remember to turn off data roaming on your phone before leaving your home country if you don't plan on using it. This will prevent your phone from automatically connecting to a local network and incurring unexpected charges.

US-style SIM cards

If you're planning to travel to Belize and want to stay connected, it's important to know how your US-style SIM card will work there. Here's a comprehensive guide to help you navigate cell phone usage in Belize:

Compatibility

Before travelling to Belize, ensure your phone is unlocked and compatible with the local cellular network. Belize Telemedia Ltd (BTL) uses the GSM 850/1900 band for its cell service and phones. If your phone is compatible with this system, you can use your own device by purchasing a local SIM card.

Purchasing a Local SIM Card

If your phone is compatible, you can buy a Belizean SIM card to get a local phone number. You can purchase these SIM cards on Ambergris Caye or online via the Hot Guide. Additionally, you can find SIM cards and prepaid minutes in local shops in Belize.

Roaming Charges

Using your US-style SIM card in Belize without a local plan may result in high roaming charges. To avoid this, be sure to disable roaming data on your phone if it has a data plan. Alternatively, you can add an international plan or roaming package from your US carrier to reduce costs.

Alternative Options

If you don't want to deal with SIM cards or roaming charges, there are other options:

• Rent a Local Phone: You can rent a local phone with a Quicksilver Go Phone service, which offers excellent service and is well-received by travellers.
• Use Wi-Fi: If you have access to Wi-Fi where you're staying, you can turn off your data and use Wi-Fi for internet access.
• Buy a Cheap Unlocked Phone: Consider purchasing an inexpensive unlocked phone in the US or Belize and then buying a local SIM card to add minutes as needed.

Using your US-style SIM card in Belize is possible, but it may incur high roaming charges. To avoid this, consider purchasing a local SIM card, renting a local phone, using Wi-Fi, or buying an inexpensive unlocked phone with a local number. Remember to check compatibility with the local network and always compare plans and prices to find the best option for your needs.

Unlocked phones

If you have an unlocked phone, you can use it in Belize as long as it is compatible with the GSM 850/1900 band used by Belize Telemedia Ltd. (BTL). Unlocked phones are not tied to a specific carrier or network provider, so you can simply purchase a local SIM card or a prepaid SIM card from a local provider in Belize. This will allow you to make and receive calls and texts at a lower cost than if you were using your regular carrier's international roaming plan.

If you are an AT&T customer, you can add an international day pass for $10/day to use your phone in Belize. However, this option may result in high fees.

It is important to note that even with an unlocked phone and a local SIM card, you may still incur roaming charges if your phone has a data plan. Therefore, it is recommended to disable roaming data on your device.

Additionally, you may want to consider downloading offline maps and other useful apps before arriving in Belize, as the wireless internet signal may not be as strong as in your home country.

In summary, an unlocked phone will give you more flexibility and control over your mobile service options when travelling to Belize, allowing you to take advantage of local rates and avoid the high costs of international roaming.

Prepaid plans

If you are an AT&T prepaid customer, your phone will not work at all in Belize. This is because AT&T does not support international roaming for its prepaid customers.

However, if you are a postpaid customer, you can add an International Day Pass to your plan for $10/day (as of 2021). This will allow you to use your phone in Belize without incurring high roaming fees. Alternatively, you can simply pay per-use rates without adding an international plan, but this may result in higher overall costs.

If you are looking for a more affordable option, you may want to consider purchasing a local SIM card in Belize. This will allow you to take advantage of local prepaid plans and avoid the high cost of international roaming. You can also buy a cheap, unlocked phone in the US or Canada and use it with a local SIM card to further reduce your costs.

It is important to note that wireless internet in Belize may not be as strong as in the US or Canada. As such, you may want to consider using Wi-Fi or a landline for making and receiving calls when possible. Additionally, be sure to disable roaming data on your phone if you have a data plan to avoid unexpected charges.

Frequently asked questions