Author Topic: Stupid question. Can I use my U.S. cell phone data and text while in Canada?  (Read 2236 times)

spartana

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Deleted

« Last Edit: June 27, 2018, 01:56:52 AM by spartana »

schmerna

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I have an iPhone (ATT) and cannot use data or text in Canada.  I need to add an international plan for the month.  It is stupid expensive but work usually pays.

merlin7676

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We can use our phones with tmobile in canada and mexico. I think it's only $5 more

frugaliknowit

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You need to ask your provider.

I happen to have TMobile where everything is seamless when you go to Canada.  Several years ago, it was not.  I had to put money in my account for texting.  The account was charged for each text message (way cheaper than voice...).

I'm a red panda

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Glad you found your answer :)

We called Verizon, verified with them that our phones and plans WOULD work for texting and data in Canada.  Got there, they didn't. Came home and find out that despite what being told, it only worked for contract plans, not pay as you go.

UGH

bacchi

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Glad you found your answer :)

We called Verizon, verified with them that our phones and plans WOULD work for texting and data in Canada.  Got there, they didn't. Came home and find out that despite what being told, it only worked for contract plans, not pay as you go.

UGH

TMobile told us the same. My pre-paid phone didn't work and neither did a contract phone. We managed by finding hot spots but it was inconvenient.

rpr

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Posting to follow.

I posted a similar request a few days back but got no responses. In Canada right now and for the next week. So far, we are managing with Wifi.


elaine amj

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You phone will be able to access Canadian wifi - it's the same wifi you get in the US.

You're right - it sounds unlikely that your Tracphone will work here (even if you manage to unlock it). However, throwaway phones are not exactly cheap in Canada. I would do my best to find a cheap, unlocked phone and then find a reasonable pay as you go plan in Canada. How long you are here for will make a difference as to which plan is best.

For a month or longer, it is definitely worth investigating.

If you end up on wifi only, look into apps that give you a local phone number. I use Talkatone for a US phone number and Freetone for a Canadian phone number. Both are free and you can make/receive calls/texts with a real phone number.