Preparing for an international adventure and want to stay connected without breaking the bank? Verizon TravelPass is your answer! This fantastic service lets you use your existing Verizon plan's talk, text, and data allowances in over 210 countries and destinations for a flat daily fee. No more worrying about exorbitant pay-per-use rates or scrambling for local SIM cards.
But how do you activate it? It's simpler than you might think! Let's dive into a comprehensive, step-by-step guide to get you set up for seamless international communication.
Your Passport to Global Connectivity: Activating Verizon TravelPass
Ready to unlock your phone's full potential for your upcoming trip? Let's make sure you're properly prepared to use Verizon TravelPass and enjoy worry-free communication abroad.
Step 1: Confirm Eligibility and Understand TravelPass Basics
Before you do anything else, it's crucial to understand what Verizon TravelPass is and if your current plan qualifies.
What is Verizon TravelPass?
Verizon TravelPass essentially extends your domestic talk, text, and data plan to eligible international destinations. Instead of incurring per-minute, per-text, or per-MB charges, you pay a fixed daily fee ($12 in most countries, $6 in Mexico and Canada) only on the days you use your device in a TravelPass-covered country. This means if you don't use your phone, you don't get charged for that day!
Do You Have a Compatible Plan?
Most Verizon consumer and business postpaid plans are compatible with TravelPass. However, it's always a good idea to double-check your specific plan details on the My Verizon app or website, or by contacting Verizon customer service. Some Unlimited plans, like Unlimited Plus and Unlimited Welcome, may even include TravelPass days or international roaming benefits, so confirm what your plan already offers!
Device Compatibility
Ensure your device is a "world device" capable of operating on international networks. Most modern smartphones (iPhone, Android) are, but if you have an older or less common device, verify its international capabilities through Verizon's Trip Planner tool.
Step 2: Add TravelPass to Your Line
There are a few convenient ways to add TravelPass to your Verizon line. Choose the method that works best for you!
Option 1: Via the My Verizon App (Recommended for convenience!)
Download and Log In: If you don't have it already, download the My Verizon app from your device's app store. Log in with your Verizon account credentials.
Navigate to International Plans:
From the main screen, tap on the "Account" or "Me" tab.
Look for a section related to "Plans," "International Plans," or "Add-ons." You might also find it under "Your savings, rewards, and benefits" and then "myAccess."
Select Your Line: If you have multiple lines on your account, select the specific line you want to enable TravelPass for.
Choose TravelPass:
Look for an option to "Add new plan" or "Change plan" under the international services section.
Select "Travel Plan" and follow the on-screen prompts for the International Trip Planner.
You'll likely be asked to confirm your destination(s) and travel dates (though TravelPass doesn't require specific dates to be activated, it's helpful for their system).
Confirm TravelPass as your desired international plan.
Review and Confirm: Carefully review the details, including the daily fee, and confirm the changes to your account. You'll receive a confirmation message once it's added.
Option 2: Through the My Verizon Website
Access My Verizon: Go to the official Verizon website (verizon.com) on your computer or mobile browser and log into your My Verizon account.
Find International Services: Navigate to the "Plans" or "Services" section. Look for "International Services" or "Manage International Plans."
Use the Trip Planner: Many users find the "Trip Planner" tool on the Verizon website very helpful. Enter your destination and travel dates. The tool will suggest available international plans, including TravelPass.
Add TravelPass: Select TravelPass for the desired line(s) and proceed to confirm the changes.
Verification: You'll receive a confirmation email or text message once TravelPass is successfully added.
Option 3: Text "TRAVEL" to 4004 (Quick and Easy!)
Open your Messaging App: From your Verizon phone, open your messaging application.
Send the Text: Create a new message and send the word TRAVEL to the shortcode 4004.
Follow Prompts: You'll receive a reply asking you to confirm. Follow the instructions to activate TravelPass on your line. This is often the quickest way if you're already on the go!
Option 4: Contact Verizon Customer Service
If you prefer speaking to someone or encounter any issues, you can always call Verizon customer service.
From the US: Dial 800-922-0204.
While abroad (International Support): Dial +1-908-559-4899 (toll charges may apply if not on Wi-Fi). It's best to add TravelPass before you leave the US to avoid this.
Step 3: Prepare Your Device Before You Depart
A few crucial steps on your device settings will ensure TravelPass works seamlessly when you land.
Sub-heading: Enable Data Roaming
This is absolutely critical for TravelPass to work! Your phone needs to be able to connect to international networks.
For iPhone:
Go to Settings.
Tap on Cellular (or Mobile Data).
Tap on Cellular Data Options.
Toggle Data Roaming to ON.
It's also a good idea to check Voice Roaming and ensure it's ON.
For Android:
Go to Settings.
Tap on Connections or Network & Internet.
Tap on Mobile Networks or Cellular Networks.
Toggle Data Roaming to ON.
Some Android devices may also have a setting like "Allow Global Data" that you should enable.
Sub-heading: Understand How TravelPass Activates
TravelPass doesn't start charging until you actively use your device in a TravelPass country. This includes:
Making or answering a phone call.
Sending a text message.
Using data (this is where background data comes in!).
Even background data processes like app content refreshing (weather apps, fitness trackers), email syncing, or device/app software updates can trigger a session. Be mindful of this!
Sub-heading: Consider Wi-Fi Calling
While TravelPass is fantastic, Wi-Fi Calling can be a great way to save your TravelPass days if you have access to stable Wi-Fi. Calls and texts made over Wi-Fi to U.S. numbers are typically free and do not trigger a TravelPass session.
Enable Wi-Fi Calling:
iPhone: Settings > Phone > Wi-Fi Calling > Toggle "Wi-Fi Calling on This iPhone" ON. You may need to enter your emergency address.
Android: Settings > Connections > Wi-Fi Calling > Toggle ON. (Path may vary slightly by device).
It's also advisable to set your phone to "Prefer Wi-Fi when roaming" if that option is available.
Step 4: Arriving at Your International Destination
Once your plane lands and you disembark, you're almost ready to use TravelPass!
Power Cycle Your Device: A simple turn off and turn on of your device can help it connect to the local network more smoothly.
Check for Network Connection: Your phone should automatically connect to a partner network. You might see the local carrier's name instead of "Verizon" in your status bar.
Welcome Text: You'll typically receive a welcome text message from Verizon informing you that you've connected to an international network and reminding you about TravelPass rates.
Start Using Your Phone: Once you make a call, send a text, or use data, your 24-hour TravelPass session begins. You'll receive a text notification letting you know when your session ends.
Step 5: Managing Your Usage and Returning Home
TravelPass is designed to be set-it-and-forget-it, but a little awareness can go a long way.
Monitor Your Usage (Optional but Recommended)
While you're abroad, you can check your unbilled international usage through the My Verizon app or website. This helps you keep an eye on how many TravelPass days you're using.
No Need to Disable TravelPass
One of the best features of TravelPass is that you don't need to remove it when you return home. You are only charged on days you use your device in a TravelPass country. So, when you're back in the US, you won't incur any TravelPass charges, and it will be ready for your next adventure!
Important Considerations:
Data Throttling: TravelPass sessions typically include a high-speed data allowance (often 0.5 GB to 5 GB, depending on your plan and any perks), after which data speeds may be reduced (to 3G speeds) for the remainder of that 24-hour session. You might be offered options to purchase additional high-speed data if needed.
Calls to Other Countries: With TravelPass, calls within the country you're visiting and calls back to the US are included. If you call a country other than the US or the one you're visiting, you'll be charged as if you were in the US and called that country, which might incur international long-distance rates.
Cruise and In-Flight Daily Pass: These are separate plans for use on cruise ships and participating international flights, respectively, and have different daily fees and allowances. TravelPass does not cover these scenarios.
Border Towns: If you live near the Canadian or Mexican border, be mindful of inadvertent connections to their networks, which could trigger a TravelPass session. If this is a concern, you might want to disable TravelPass on those days or ensure you're connected to Wi-Fi.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Verizon TravelPass
Here are 10 common questions about Verizon TravelPass, with quick answers to help you on your way!
How to check if TravelPass is already on my Verizon account?
You can easily check by logging into the My Verizon app or website, navigating to your account details or international plans section for your specific line. You can also text "TRAVEL" to 4004 and if it's already active, it will likely confirm.
How to avoid activating TravelPass unintentionally?
To avoid unintentional activation, ensure "Data Roaming" is off in your device settings when you don't want to use TravelPass, or keep your phone in Airplane Mode and only use Wi-Fi. Even background data can trigger a session.
How to use Wi-Fi calling with TravelPass?
Enable Wi-Fi Calling in your phone's settings (usually under Phone or Connections). When connected to Wi-Fi, calls and texts to US numbers will use Wi-Fi and typically won't trigger a TravelPass session.
How to know when my 24-hour TravelPass session ends?
Verizon will send you a text message approximately two hours after your TravelPass session begins, notifying you of when the 24-hour period will expire.
How to get more high-speed data if I run out during a TravelPass session?
If you exceed your TravelPass high-speed data allowance (e.g., 0.5 GB or 5 GB), your data speed will be reduced. You may receive a text offering to purchase an additional high-speed data bundle (e.g., 2 GB for $5 or $10) for that same 24-hour session.
How to call numbers in the country I'm visiting with TravelPass?
With TravelPass active, you can call numbers within the country you are visiting just as you would normally dial a local number in that country.
How to call back to the US while using TravelPass?
To call back to the US from abroad, hold down "0" on your keypad until the "+" symbol appears, then dial "1" (the US country code) followed by the 10-digit phone number, and press send.
How to contact Verizon customer service while abroad?
You can reach Verizon's International Support Team by dialing +1-908-559-4899 from any phone (toll charges may apply if not on Wi-Fi) or look up the specific toll-free number for the country you are in on Verizon's international support page.
How to know if my device will work in a specific country?
Use Verizon's online "Trip Planner" tool on their website. Enter your destination and device model, and it will tell you if your phone is compatible and what services are available.
How to manage TravelPass days if I have them banked from a perk or promotion?
If you have TravelPass days from a perk (like with certain Unlimited plans) or a Verizon Visa Card, you can view and manage them in the My Verizon app, typically under the "Me" tab in the "My savings, rewards, and benefits" section.