Using a local SIM when traveling abroad

If you know you’ll need access to data while traveling, obtaining a SIM card from a local provider is the way to go. CREDO Mobile does not offer international data, and you’ll find that it is inexpensive and easy to purchase a SIM card for international use once you've arrived at your destination. 

If you decide this is the way to go, please note that you will be paying another service provider for your text, voice, and data usage, not CREDO Mobile. While you are using a local SIM card, your CREDO Mobile number will not be in use.  

Tips for purchasing and using an international SIM card:

  • It's best to buy your SIM card from a confirmed carrier retail location. This will allow you to ask carrier representatives questions and receive any additional support you may need.
  • Insert your SIM card properly.  
  • Be sure to retain your CREDO Mobile SIM card. You'll need to re-insert it once you return to the United States to resume your CREDO service.

Can I use my CREDO eSIM device if I travel internationally?  

  • 3rd party international providers will have to provide you with support & assistance with eSIM purchase and activation.


Using a 3rd Party SIM Card:

How to ensure the correct SIM card is being used for International Travel

If you currently have a physical SIM card active with CREDO and you are intending to activates an eSIM with an International Carrier. 


Once the 3rdparty carrier activated the eSIM you will need to remove the physical SIM card from the phone
  • Be careful to not damage or lose the SIM card. The CREDO SIM card will need to be inserted back on the phone when you return to the US.






If you currently have an eSIM active with CREDO and want to activates a Physical 3rd party SIM with an International Carrier. 


Upon leaving the US the member will need to turn off the CREDO eSIM so they are using the International SIM card. (see steps below to turn on/off the eSIM in your phone) 











If you currently have an eSIM active with CREDO and want to activate a second eSIM with an International Carrier. 


Upon leaving the US you will need to turn off the CREDO eSIM and turn on the International eSIM card. (see steps below to turn on/off the eSIM in your phone) 












How to Turn on/off eSIM on Smartphones: 

Turn on/off eSIM on iPhone

  1. From the iPhone settings select Cellular
  2. Under SIMs select the eSIM that you would like to switch off (CREDO eSIM).
  3. Switch off the eSIM profile.

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Upon returning to the US you will need to turn back on the CREDO eSIM and turn off or delete the International SIM card. 

 

Turn on/off eSIM on Samsung Devices

  1. From a Home screen, swipe up from the center of the display to access all apps.
  2. Navigate: Settings > Connections > SIM manager.
  3. Tap the SIM switches to turn off. Under SIMs select the eSIM that you would like to switch off (CREDO eSIM).
  4. Tap 'Turn off' to confirm.

Upon returning to the US you will need to turn back on the CREDO eSIM and turn off or delete the International SIM card. 



How to Avoid International Roaming Charges:

If you do not intend to use CREDO International Roaming then you should make sure Data Roaming is Turned Off in the settings of the phone.

Turn off data roaming on Apple iPhone

  1. In the Settings app, tap Cellular or Cellular Data. Then:
    1. If your device has a single SIM card or eSIM, turn on Cellular Data, then tap Cellular Data Options.
    2. If your device uses Dual SIM or Dual eSIM, turn on Cellular Data, tap the number you want to modify, then tap Cellular Data Options.
  2. Turn off Data Roaming.

Turn off data roaming on your Samsung Device

  1. Launch your phone's Settings app from the home screen.
  2. Navigate to Connections > Mobile Networks.
  3. Tap the blue toggle to turn data roaming off.





Additional Tips:

  • Turn On Airplane mode (this prevent the device from connecting to the cellular network)
  • Keep the phone powered off (this prevents background usage or the possibility of the user accidentally using the service)




Looking for more useful tips on using your device while traveling abroad? Check out our international travel tip post on the CREDO Mobile blog.

Are you currently abroad and in need of support? Using standard international dialing procedures, members can reach CREDO support at +1-415-251-9901 from Mon-Fri, 6:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. PT and Sat - Sun, 7 a.m.- 3 p.m. PT.

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