Using Movistar services in the USA requires careful attention to roaming charges, as mobile data costs can reach $104.70 for just 10MB of usage. This guide covers essential information about activation methods, data plans, and cost management strategies for your US travel. Understanding these options helps you stay connected for navigation, messaging, and calls while avoiding unexpected charges on your trip.
In this article
When traveling abroad with Movistar, you can choose between two roaming options to stay connected: pay-as-you-go and daily packages.
Movistar provides services across 11 countries worldwide. Here’s a detailed look at how much you’ll pay for roaming in each region, helping you plan your phone usage while traveling.
While Movistar operates in several countries, rates vary significantly by location. Here are the current roaming costs:
Spain:
Mexico: All Services (Data/SMS/Calls): $0.15 per unit (MB/SMS/Minute)
Colombia:
Ecuador:
Note: Argentina rates are currently not available.
Travel passes offer better value than standard roaming rates, letting you control costs while staying connected abroad. Each country has different pass options and restrictions, so check the table below to find the best plan for your destination.
| Country | Daily Pass | Weekly Pass | Monthly Pass |
| Spain | $6.35 (500MB data) Max monthly: $63.47 | Not available | Not available |
| Mexico | $5.41 (Unlimited data + texts, 60min calls) | Not available | – Basic: $9.80 (5GB data) – Standard: $27.03 (500MB, 30min, 30 SMS) – Premium: $54.10 (1GB, 60min, 60 SMS) |
| Argentina | $7 (500MB + free calls/texts in USA/Argentina) | $18.80 (500MB/day for 14 days) | Not available |
| Colombia | Prepaid: $1.81-$5.89 (300MB-1.8GB) \nPostpaid: $2.04-$20.84 (550MB-unlimited) | Not available | Not available |
| Ecuador | – $3.59 (1GB) – $5.12 (500MB + unlimited WhatsApp/Instagram) | $31.82 (5GB + unlimited WhatsApp/Instagram) | $82.13 (9GB + unlimited WhatsApp/Instagram) |
Each Movistar region has its own activation process. Here’s how to get started in Spain:
For Spanish Customers:
Other countries have different activation methods, which we’ll cover in the table below.
| Country | Pay-As-You-Go | Travel Passes |
| Mexico | Automatic activation when abroad | – Call *100 to purchase – Use Movistar App: “Compra paquetes y módulos” menu |
| Argentina | Not available | – Basic daily pass: Automatic in USA – Other passes: Text “7A” or “AM7” to 5678 – Movistar App: “Cuenta” section |
| Colombia | Call *611# to activate | Movistar App: “Mis productos” > “Roaming” |
| Ecuador | – Movistar App: “Cuenta” menu – WhatsApp support | – Movistar App: “Cuenta” menu – WhatsApp support |
When traveling abroad, you’ll need mobile data. Movistar offers two choices: pay-as-you-go or travel passes. Here’s what you should know to make the right choice for your needs.
Staying connected in the USA is essential for navigation, ride-sharing, and keeping in touch with family. However, Movistar roaming charges can quickly add up – just 10MB of data could cost you $104.70 in five minutes. Follow these guidelines to manage your costs while staying connected abroad.
Staying connected in the USA doesn’t have to mean expensive international roaming charges. Here are cost-effective alternatives to keep you online throughout your American journey:
eSIM Service
Gigago’s USA eSIM plans start at $1.90, offering daily (500MB-3GB) or total data packages (3GB-50GB) valid for 1-30 days. With nationwide 4G/LTE/5G coverage and hotspot support, simply purchase online, scan the QR code, and connect instantly while keeping your original SIM active. Compatible with most modern unlocked phones.
Local SIM Cards
eSIMs provide a cost-effective alternative to traditional roaming, offering similar functionality with easier activation. Enjoy reliable connectivity without unexpected roaming charges, ensuring a worry-free American trip.
Portable WiFi Hotspot
Rent portable internet devices at US airports or pre-book online. These devices connect multiple devices simultaneously. Pay a fixed daily rate and share internet with travel companions. Simple plug-and-play operation works like home WiFi.
When receiving calls abroad, you will be charged for incoming and outgoing calls. The person calling you from Spain pays only regular domestic rates since they don’t need to know your international location.
No, for messages, you can receive SMS and MMS for free while abroad. You only pay when sending messages from your device in a foreign country.
Regarding roaming rates, the costs depend on your travel destination rather than the network you connect to. Spain, EU countries, and the UK often have lower rates, while other international destinations may charge higher fees. Each country has specific rates set by Movistar, which you can verify on their official website before traveling.
Whether you use a physical SIM or eSIM during your trip, this guide will walk you through the simple process of reconnecting with your home network and avoid any unwanted roaming charges.
Using one eSIM in multiple countries simplifies international travel and connectivity. Modern eSIM technology lets travelers stay connected across borders without switching physical SIM cards or paying high roaming fees.
Streaming music has become the way to enjoy songs, podcasts and audiobooks, with platforms like Spotify, Pandora, Apple Music, Amazon Music leading the trend. While streaming music is convenient, it is also associated with mobile data consumption, especially for users with limited plans. This article will explain: how much data does streaming music use across […]
Vodafone roaming in Canada lets you use your regular phone plan abroad through the “Roam Like Home” service. Before traveling to Canada, understanding how Vodafone’s roaming works can help you avoid unexpected charges and stay connected. This guide covers daily fees, network access, calling costs, and data usage while using Vodafone across Canadian networks. I. […]
Traveling to the United States while using Orange mobile services can lead to high roaming costs. Although Orange Roaming is a straightforward option, several alternatives offer better value without compromising connectivity. Let’s explore these cost-effective solutions for staying connected during your US visit. I. How much does Orange roaming in the USA cost? Orange roaming […]
Your cell phone can work on a cruise ship, but the way it works is different from using it on land. Ships offer various ways to stay connected, but understanding your options is crucial to avoid unexpected charges. Find out whether or not cell phones work on a cruise ship, which cellular services work at […]
