Are you thinking about traveling to Georgia and wondering how roaming in Georgia works? Don’t stress! Whether you’re navigating the appealing streets of Tbilisi or exploring the Caucasus mountains, staying connected is not as hard as you imagine. This guide will break down everything you need to know about using your phone in Georgia, from understanding roaming charges to finding the best other options to survive there.
Table of Contents
I. Understand Data Roaming in Georgia
What exactly are roaming charges? Simply put, these are extra fees you pay to use your phone on a network outside your home country. When you’re in Georgia, your phone will connect to a local Georgian network instead of your usual one, leading to roaming charges.
Here’s what you need to know about the different types:
- Voice Calls: Making and receiving calls while roaming can be expensive.
- Data Use: Browsing the internet, using apps, and checking emails all consume data, which can quickly add up.
- Text Messages: Even sending a simple “hello” can come with a roaming fee.
Another fact is that EU roaming regulations do not apply in Georgia. This means your domestic plan benefits likely won’t extend to your trip.
II. Roaming Charges in Georgia
Georgia has beautiful views and culture, but mobile charges can be high because of roaming. But, if you prepare and understand how it works, you can keep your roaming costs under control. The contents below will show you.
1. How to Check Roaming Charges Before Your Travel to Georgia
Before your trip, take some steps to avoid unexpected high bills. Here’s how to check roaming charges for Georgia:
- Contact your mobile provider: Use their website, or app, or call them to ask about roaming rates for Georgia, including data, calls, and texts.
- Look up roaming fees: Go to your provider’s website and find the international roaming section to see charges for Georgia. Check what applies to your plan.
- Call Customer Service: For direct information, call customer service and ask about the roaming charges for your trip to Georgia. This helps you get clear details on the costs.
2. Roaming Charge in Georgia by the USA Mobile Operators
Major US mobile operators offer various international roaming plans and packages for Georgia. Here’s a breakdown of standard roaming charges from 3 leading providers in USD:
| Mobile Operator | Calls (per minute) | Text | Data (per MB) |
| T-Mobile | $0.25 | $0.25 | $2.05 |
| AT&T | $1.79 | $0.50 | $2.05 |
| Verizon | $2.99 | $0.50 | $2.05 |
Note: These rates are subject to change, and it's always best to double-check with your provider before your trip to Georgia.
III. Best Ways to Avoid Roaming Charges in Georgia
Here are 5 best ways to avoid roaming charges in Georgia:
- Buy an eSIM from esimgeorgia.net
- Buy an international SIM card
- Rely on free WiFi networks
- Turn off data roaming on your device
- Get a virtual phone number
1. Buy an eSIM from esimgeorgia.net
Buying an eSIM from esimgeorgia.net is always recommended for travelers because this is the best way to avoid roaming charges. By purchasing an eSIM plan from this site, you can simply scan a QR code to activate data without swapping any physical SIM cards.
eSIM plans from here provide fast LTE speeds on local networks. Prices start from as low as $6.5 for 1GB over 7 days. Plans include 3GB-10GB for 30 days ranging between $14-$38.
2. Buy a Local Georgia SIM Card
Purchasing a local Georgia SIM card is another cost-effective option. You can buy SIM cards at airport kiosks or major mobile carriers’ stores. Make sure to provide your passport.
Plans are generally cheap, starting from ~$2 for small data packages. Changing SIM cards is much more inconvenient than eSIM.
3. Use Free WiFi
Public WiFi is widely available in Georgia. Check if your hotel, coffee shops, malls, or tourist attractions provide complimentary internet access. You can also use WiFi on public transportation and Tbilisi metro.
4. Turn Off Data Roaming
- On Android devices, go to Settings > Network & Internet > Mobile Network > Roaming.
- On iPhone, go to Settings > Mobile Data > Mobile Data Options > Voice & Data Roaming. Toggle the switch to off.
5. Get a Virtual Phone Number
A virtual phone number masks your real number but lets you make/receive calls and texts globally over data. However, voice quality may suffer without a proper cellular connection.
IV. FAQs about Data Roaming in Georgia
Do I need to activate data roaming to use my device in Georgia?
Yes, most mobile providers require you to activate data roaming on your plan before you can use data services while traveling in Georgia.
Which mobile networks can I use for data roaming in Georgia?
The major mobile network operators in Georgia that allow roaming are Magti, Geocell, and Vell. Coverage and speeds can vary depending on your home provider’s roaming agreements.
Will I have LTE/4G service when roaming in Georgia?
LTE/4G signal and speed in Georgia when roaming depends on your carrier’s partner networks there. Big cities usually have good 4G, but countryside areas might only have 3G. Signals can be weak in faraway places.
Does my US cell phone plan still work for calls/texts when roaming in Georgia?
When you’re in Georgia, your US phone can still get calls and texts. But making calls will cost a lot per minute. Apps like WhatsApp let you text or call for free over WiFi, so you don’t have to pay extra.
Are there any restrictions on social media or app use when roaming in Georgia?
No strict rules, but remember Georgia’s internet has government control. Streaming might be slower or not as good to help manage costs. Change quality settings to use less data.
V. Conclusion
In short, when roaming in Georgia, staying connected and using data services is easy. This means you can keep in touch with family and search for any information while you see Georgia’s beautiful places. But remember to keep an eye on roaming charges. Before any trip, you must prepare a basic understanding of that planned country to make sure that nothing’s ignored.
