
Data roaming in Australia and alternatives to save money
Are you planning to fulfill your dream of hugging a koala or having a picnic at the Sydney harbor? Traveling to Australia can be an exciting adventure, but the issue of staying connected when you’re there can quickly become a headache. No matter what your plans are, knowing how to manage your mobile data and avoid excessive costs is essential. Let’s explore the different roaming options in Australia, compare the alternatives, and see how to stay connected without breaking the bank.

Table of Contents
What is data roaming?
Data roaming can be your absolute savior when you’re in desperate need of an internet connection while abroad. It occurs when your phone uses mobile data outside of your mobile carrier’s network range. For example, if you travel to Australia from another country, you’ll have to connect to an Australian provider’s network to use the internet.
However, roaming often comes with high fees, so it’s important to understand your provider’s policies before you turn it on — otherwise, you might end up with a very high bill at the end of the month. A general rule of thumb is to use roaming only when necessary and look for alternative options, like pocket Wi-Fi and an eSIM.
Why do you need data roaming in Australia?
Data roaming is necessary when traveling to Australia, especially for staying connected in remote areas or when Wi-Fi isn’t readily available. It keeps your phone hooked up to local networks for calls, texts, and the internet, so you’re never out of touch — even in the land of wide open spaces. Roaming ensures you have access to maps, travel apps, and instant messaging whenever you need, keeping your trip stress free.
And yes, you can use your US cell phone in Australia! Most modern phones play nice with Aussie networks. Just ensure your carrier supports international roaming and remember to turn it on only when you need it.
Data roaming charges in Australia
Many US-based mobile carriers provide international roaming options that will allow you to stay connected in Australia.
AT&T offers international day passes that give access to your regular plan for a flat daily fee. The pass covers 210 destinations — Australia included — and costs 12 USD per day. However, some conditions might apply, so make sure to double-check it. This option allows users to maintain their current data, text, and call allowances abroad.
Verizon provides TravelPass, a daily roaming plan similar to AT&T’s, that allows you to use your US plan in Australia. For extended trips, they also offer monthly international plans. TravelPass costs 12 USD per day in Australia.
T-Mobile offers international roaming in Australia, but the specifics depend on your plan. For customers on Magenta and Go5G plans, T-Mobile provides unlimited texting and data at speeds up to 256 kbps in Australia. To improve the browsing experience, T-Mobile offers International Passes that start at 5 USD.
Mint Mobile also offers daily roaming plans called Minternational Passes. These passes are available in one-day, three-day, and ten-day packages, starting at 5 USD.
Carrier | Roaming plan | Starting price | Best for |
---|---|---|---|
AT&T | International Day Pass | 12 USD per day, 6 USD for each additional line. Only pay for the days you use. | Consistent usage of the US plan |
Verizon | TravelPass/Monthly Plans | 12 USD per day. Only pay for the days you use. | Short and extended trips |
T-Mobile | Basic roaming | Included in some plans. If you need more high-speed data, add an international data pass. | Frequent, budget-conscious travelers |
Mint Mobile | Minternational Pass | 5 USD for 1 day and 1GB, 10 USD for 3 days and 3 GB of high-speed data, 20 USD for 10 days and 10 GB of high-speed data. After high-speed data is used, you will experience lower speed. | Budget-conscious users |
However, prices and roaming plans can change, so when you’re planning your trip to Australia, make sure to do some research and contact your carrier to ask for the most up-to-date information.
How can roaming charges in Australia be avoided, and what are the alternatives?
Do you want to use your phone without the roaming charges while you’re Down Under? A good place to start is turning off data roaming in your phone settings and using Wi-Fi wherever you can! Make sure to download maps and must-have apps to use offline before your trip, too. But if you need consistent connectivity, it might be good to consider options like pocket Wi-Fi, public Wi-Fi, local SIM cards, or an eSIM.
Pocket Wi-Fi
Pocket Wi-Fi devices are like having your own portable hotspot — they’re great for sharing a connection with friends or family, especially if you’re traveling as a group. However, they can be annoying to carry, and keeping them charged is another thing to consider. On top of that, daily rental costs can add up. While it’s a reliable choice for remote areas and those traveling in groups, pocket Wi-Fi isn’t the most budget-friendly for solo or short trips.
Public Wi-Fi
Public Wi-Fi is easy to find in Australia — you can access it in cafes, hotels, libraries, and sometimes even parks. It’s a free option that can be handy for checking emails or maps. But it’s not all sunshine and rainbows — public Wi-Fi can be slow, unreliable, and a security risk, especially if you’re handling sensitive data. While it’s OK for casual use, you might be frustrated if you need a stable connection for video calls or uploading photos.
Local SIM card
Getting a local SIM card is a tried-and-true way to stay connected without paying roaming fees. You’ll find plenty of prepaid plans from major Aussie providers, many with generous data packages. SIM cards are easy to grab at airports, convenience stores, or vending machines. However, swapping your SIM means losing access to your usual phone number for the duration of your trip, which could be a bother for work or personal calls. You’ll also have to be careful not to lose your primary SIM card. Swapping it out for a local SIM card is a practical and affordable option, but it might not suit everyone.
eSIM
For the smoothest experience, an eSIM is hard to beat. It’s digital, so there’s no need to handle tiny SIM cards, and you can install the eSIM before you travel. With an eSIM, you can access local data plans while keeping your primary number active — perfect for travelers who want convenience. Just make sure your device supports eSIM technology before you go. If it does, you’re all set for a seamless, stress-free way to stay connected throughout your trip.
How do you choose the best eSIM provider for your trip to Australia?
When choosing the right eSIM provider, consider what matters most to you — coverage, cost, data limits, or ease of use. Select a reliable network access provider that offers coverage in both urban hubs and remote outback areas. Transparent pricing and no hidden fees are also key to avoiding unpleasant surprises. Lastly, check if the setup process is user-friendly and compatible with your device.
When it comes to eSIM for Australia, Saily is a standout choice. With seamless connectivity, flexible data plans, and security features, Saily will help you stay online wherever your Australian journey takes you.
It’s easy to use — download the Saily app, choose your plan, and that’s it! Your plan will activate automatically, and if you run out of data, you can top it up when needed with one tap. Now you’re ready to share that kangaroo photo with your friends and family!

Stay connected with the Saily eSIM app
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Giedrė is an outdoor enthusiast who feels more at home in a tent than in a luxury hotel. She’s the type who packs her bags with a headlamp and enough snacks to survive a zombie apocalypse, but that doesn’t mean she doesn’t like snapping pictures to post on her Instagram stories. For that, she’s always prepared with an eSIM card on her phone — it helps her navigate the forest, too!