Your Guide to the Best Unlocked Phone for International Travel in 2026

Planning your next big trip abroad and wondering which phone to bring? It’s a common question, and honestly, picking the right device can make a huge difference. You want something that connects easily, lasts all day, and doesn’t cost a fortune in roaming fees. We’ve looked at the latest phones coming out in 2026 to help you find the best unlocked phone for international travel. Whether you’re a globetrotter or just heading out for a couple of weeks, this guide should point you in the right direction.

Key Takeaways

• An unlocked phone for international travel lets you use local SIM cards or eSIMs, saving you money on roaming charges.
• Look for phones with broad band support to ensure compatibility with networks in your destination countries.
• Battery life and durability are important for long travel days and potential rough handling.
• Dual SIM or eSIM capability is super handy for keeping your home number while using a local data plan.
• Consider your travel style and budget when choosing between high-end flagships and more affordable options.

1. Apple iPhone 17 Pro Max

Alright, let’s talk about the iPhone 17 Pro Max. If you’re an Apple person and you want the absolute top-tier experience, this is pretty much it. It’s got all the bells and whistles Apple can cram into a phone right now.

For travelers, especially those who create content on the go, this phone is a serious contender. The cameras are just fantastic, and the ability to edit high-res video right on the device without it chugging along is a big deal. Plus, with fast 5G and Wi-Fi, you can shoot, edit, and upload your work pretty much anywhere.

Here’s a quick look at what makes it stand out:

• Amazing Cameras: Seriously, they’re top-notch for both photos and video. If you’re into capturing memories or your next viral video, this is your tool.
• Long Battery Life: You can expect over 34 hours of use, which is great for those long travel days when you can’t just plug in.
• Video Features: Apple has packed in some really advanced video tools that give you a lot of creative control.
• Performance: Powered by the A19 Pro chip, it handles pretty much anything you throw at it, from demanding apps to editing large video files.

It’s a bit of a beast in terms of size, measuring 6.43 by 3.07 by 0.34 inches, so keep that in mind if you prefer smaller phones. But if you want the best Apple has to offer for productivity and content creation while traveling, the 17 Pro Max is hard to beat.

2. Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra

Alright, let’s talk about the Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra. If you’re looking for a phone that pretty much does it all, this is probably it. It’s a powerhouse with some seriously impressive cameras and all the latest AI tricks Samsung has cooked up.

When you’re traveling, having a phone that can keep up is key. The S25 Ultra doesn’t mess around when it comes to performance. It’s running on the latest Snapdragon chip, which means apps load fast, games run smoothly, and you won’t be waiting around for anything. Plus, the screen is really nice – bright and easy to see even when the sun is beating down.

What really makes this phone stand out for travelers, though, are a few things:

• The Cameras: Seriously, they’re top-notch. Whether you’re snapping photos of landmarks or trying to get a good shot of your dinner, the S25 Ultra delivers. The AI features help make your pictures look even better, which is handy when you want to share your adventures.
• The S Pen: This little stylus is surprisingly useful. You can jot down notes about places you’ve visited, sketch out a quick map, or even just use it for more precise control on the screen. It’s tucked right into the phone, so you don’t have to worry about losing it.
• Galaxy AI Features: Samsung has packed in a lot of AI smarts. Things like the Audio Eraser in videos can help clean up background noise, making it easier to hear what you’re saying in your travel vlogs. It also has some neat editing tools for photos.

It’s a big phone, no doubt about it, but that screen size is great for watching videos or looking at maps. And if you get the unlocked version directly from Samsung, it’s set up to work with pretty much any carrier you’ll find around the world. It’s definitely an investment, but for a phone that can handle almost anything you throw at it while you’re away from home, the S25 Ultra is hard to beat.

3. Samsung Galaxy S25

The Samsung Galaxy S25 is a solid choice if you’re looking for a high-end Android phone without all the bells and whistles of the Ultra model. It still packs a punch with its performance and camera capabilities, making it a reliable companion for international travel. You’ll find it handles most tasks with ease, from snapping photos of landmarks to staying connected on the go.

This phone offers a great balance between features and price. While it might not have the absolute best camera system or the built-in stylus like its bigger sibling, it still delivers a premium experience. The display is bright and clear, which is super helpful when you’re trying to read directions or look up information in different lighting conditions.

Here’s a quick look at what you can expect:

• Performance: It’s powered by a top-tier processor, so apps load quickly and multitasking is smooth. No lag when you’re trying to switch between your maps and translation apps.
• Cameras: The camera setup is more than capable of capturing your travel memories. Expect good quality photos, especially in decent lighting.
• Build Quality: Samsung generally makes durable phones, and the S25 is no exception. It should hold up well to the rigors of travel.
• Connectivity: As an unlocked phone, it’s designed to work with a wide range of cellular networks globally, which is exactly what you need when hopping between countries. Just pop in a local SIM card, and you’re good to go.

4. Samsung Galaxy S25 FE

Alright, let’s talk about the Samsung Galaxy S25 FE. This phone is kind of the middle child in Samsung’s big S25 family, aiming to give you a lot of the good stuff without the super high price tag of the Ultra or the Plus models. It’s a solid choice if you want a reliable Samsung experience that won’t break the bank, and it’s definitely worth considering for international travel.

The FE stands for ‘Fan Edition’, and it really feels like Samsung listened to what people liked about the higher-end models and packed it into a more affordable package. It usually brings a great screen, a capable camera system, and decent performance. For traveling, you’ll appreciate that it’s unlocked, meaning you can pop in a local SIM card pretty much anywhere you go. This saves you from those hefty roaming charges, which is always a win.

Here’s what you can generally expect from an FE model:

• Display: You’re usually getting a vibrant AMOLED screen, which is great for looking at maps or photos, even in bright sunlight. It might not be the absolute brightest on the market, but it’s more than good enough for most situations.
• Cameras: While not quite matching the Ultra’s camera prowess, the S25 FE typically offers a versatile triple-camera setup. You’ll get good shots in decent lighting, and it’s usually good enough for capturing those travel memories without fuss.
• Performance: It’s powered by a capable processor that handles everyday tasks and most apps smoothly. You won’t be doing heavy-duty gaming on it, but for browsing, social media, and using travel apps, it’s perfectly fine.
• Battery Life: Samsung usually puts a decent-sized battery in the FE models, which should get you through a full day of exploring. Of course, heavy use like constant GPS navigation will drain it faster, but that’s true for any phone.

When you’re picking a phone for international travel, the FE series often hits that sweet spot between features and cost. It’s a practical pick that gets the job done without costing as much as its more premium siblings. You get a good all-around smartphone experience that’s ready for your adventures abroad.

5. Google Pixel 9a

Alright, let’s talk about the Google Pixel 9a. If you’re looking for a solid phone that won’t break the bank, this one’s a pretty good shout. It’s kind of the sweet spot for people who want Google’s smart features and a decent camera without paying top dollar.

This phone really shines for its value, packing in a lot of what makes the pricier Pixels good, but at a much more accessible price point. It’s got that clean Android experience that Google is known for, and the Tensor G4 chip inside is no slouch. It handles everyday tasks, apps, and even some gaming without much fuss. Plus, Google’s commitment to seven years of software updates means this phone should stay current and secure for a long time, which is pretty impressive for its class.

When it comes to snapping photos, the Pixel 9a punches above its weight. You get those signature Pixel camera results – natural colors, good detail, and solid low-light performance. It’s not going to beat the absolute best out there, but for most people, it’s more than enough to capture memories.

One thing to note is that it doesn’t have the absolute latest bells and whistles, like mmWave 5G support, which is more common on higher-end devices. Also, don’t expect to wirelessly charge other devices from it. But honestly, for the price, these are minor trade-offs.

Here’s a quick look at what you get:

• Performance: Google Tensor G4 chip for smooth operation.
• Camera: Excellent photo quality, especially for its price range.
• Software: Clean Android with long-term update support (seven years).
• Build: Decent durability with Gorilla Glass 3 and IP68 water/dust resistance.

It’s a straightforward, capable phone that gets the job done, especially if you appreciate Google’s AI smarts and want a reliable device for your travels without spending a fortune.

6. OnePlus 13

Alright, let’s talk about the OnePlus 13. This phone is kind of a sweet spot, you know? It packs a lot of the fancy stuff you’d expect from a top-tier phone, but it doesn’t totally empty your wallet. It’s a solid choice if you want good performance and a battery that actually lasts without paying that super-premium price.

One of the standout things about the OnePlus 13 is its battery life. Seriously, it’s pretty impressive. You can go a good chunk of time without needing to hunt for a charger, which is a lifesaver when you’re out and about exploring a new place. Plus, when you do need to juice it up, it charges really fast, both with a cable and wirelessly.

Here’s a quick look at some of its specs:

• Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 (This means it’s quick and can handle pretty much anything you throw at it).
• Display: A nice, bright 7-inch screen with a high refresh rate, making everything look smooth.
• Charging: Supports 80W wired charging, getting you back to full power in no time.
• Operating System: Runs on Android 16.

It’s got a decent camera setup too, good enough for snapping pictures of your travels without any fuss. It might not be the absolute best camera on the market, but for everyday use and sharing memories, it does a fine job. The phone feels pretty good in the hand, too – not too big, not too small. It’s just a well-rounded device that gets a lot of things right.

7. Samsung Galaxy S24

The Samsung Galaxy S24 is a solid choice if you’re looking for a reliable phone that won’t break the bank but still offers a good experience, especially for travel. It packs a punch with its display, camera, and battery life, making it a dependable companion on your adventures.

When you’re hopping between time zones or just exploring a new city, having a phone that can keep up is key. The S24’s battery is designed to last through a full day of heavy use, so you’re less likely to be hunting for an outlet when you need your map or want to snap a photo. Plus, its display is quite nice for watching videos or browsing photos you’ve taken.

Here’s a quick look at what makes it a decent pick:

• Display: A bright and clear screen that’s easy to see even in sunlight.
• Camera: Takes good, clean photos, especially in decent lighting conditions. You’ll get nice shots for your social media or memories.
• Performance: It’s quick enough for everyday tasks and apps, with a smooth refresh rate that makes scrolling feel fluid.
• Connectivity: As an unlocked phone, it’s ready to accept a local SIM card when you land, saving you from expensive international roaming charges. You can easily find SIM card deals in most countries.

While it might not have all the bells and whistles of the absolute top-tier models, the Galaxy S24 offers a balanced package. It’s a phone that gets the job done well without unnecessary complexity, which is often exactly what you want when you’re on the move.

8. Apple iPhone 17

The iPhone 17 is a really solid choice if you’re looking for a new phone that can handle international travel without breaking the bank. It strikes a great balance between features and price, making it a top pick for many people.

One of the biggest wins for travelers is the battery life. You can expect it to last well over 24 hours on a single charge, which is super handy when you’re out exploring all day and might not have easy access to an outlet. Plus, it supports fast charging, so you can top it up quickly before heading out.

For connectivity, it’s got all the modern radios you’d want, meaning it should play nicely with networks in most countries. It also supports up to two active eSIMs at once, and can store a total of eight. This is a game-changer for travel, letting you easily switch between local plans or keep your home number active alongside a travel SIM.

Here’s a quick look at some of its key specs:

While it doesn’t have all the bells and whistles of the Pro models, like the advanced video tools, it gets you most of the way there for a lot less money. The screen is also pretty great, using the same one you’d find on the iPhone 17 Pro. It’s a good size too – not too big, not too small – making it comfortable to hold and use, even for extended periods.

9. Google Pixel 10

The Google Pixel 10 is shaping up to be a really solid choice for travelers, especially if you like sticking with one phone for a good while. Google’s really pushing their AI features, and they’re built right into the phone, which means things like live translation and photo editing can happen super fast, even without a constant internet connection. That’s a big win when you’re abroad and maybe don’t have the best signal.

This phone is designed to last, with Google promising seven years of software updates. That means you won’t have to worry about your phone becoming outdated or insecure anytime soon, which is great for long-term travel plans. Plus, the cameras are always a strong point for Pixels, so you’ll be able to capture all your adventures in great detail.

Here’s a quick look at what makes it stand out:

• Advanced AI Features: Think real-time call translation and smart photo editing that works locally on the device.
• Exceptional Camera System: Expect top-tier photo and video quality, perfect for documenting your trips.
• Long-Term Software Support: Seven years of updates means this phone stays current and secure for a very long time.
• Durable Build: It’s built to handle the bumps and scrapes that come with travel.

While it might not have every single bell and whistle like some ultra-premium phones (like reverse wireless charging), its focus on practical AI, great cameras, and longevity makes it a smart pick for international journeys. It’s a phone that just works, and keeps working, wherever you go.

10. Samsung Galaxy S25+

The Samsung Galaxy S25+ is a solid choice if you’re looking for a phone that balances features with a slightly more manageable size than the absolute top-tier models. It’s got a great screen and a camera system that will handle most travel photos without a hitch. This phone offers a good mix of performance and usability for everyday tasks and international communication.

When you’re hopping between countries, having a reliable phone is key. The S25+ usually comes with good battery life, which is a lifesaver when you’re out exploring all day and can’t find a charger. Plus, its build quality is generally robust, meaning it can handle the bumps and jostles of travel.

Here’s a quick look at what you might expect:

• Display: Bright and clear, good for using maps or looking up directions.
• Camera: Capable of taking nice pictures, especially in good lighting.
• Performance: Handles apps and multitasking well enough for most users.
• Connectivity: Supports a wide range of global bands, making it easier to connect to networks abroad.

While it might not have every single bell and whistle of the absolute highest-end phones, the Galaxy S25+ is a practical pick. It’s a phone that gets the job done without breaking the bank or being overly complicated. For many travelers, this kind of dependable performance is exactly what they need. If you’re considering a new device, checking out the Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra might also be worthwhile if you want the absolute best, but the S25+ is a strong contender for a more balanced option.

So, What’s the Takeaway?

Alright, so picking the right unlocked phone for your adventures in 2026 really comes down to what you need. Whether you’re a weekend warrior or a globetrotter, there’s a phone out there that won’t break the bank or leave you stranded without service. Remember to check those network bands for where you’re headed, think about battery life for those long travel days, and don’t forget about the convenience of eSIM. By keeping these things in mind, you can grab a phone that’s ready for anything the world throws at it, so you can focus on making memories, not worrying about your connection. Happy travels!

Frequently Asked Questions

Why should I use an unlocked phone for international travel?

Unlocked phones let you use local SIM cards or eSIMs in other countries. This means you can get cheaper data, avoid big roaming fees, and stay connected almost anywhere. You’re not stuck with just one carrier.

What’s the difference between an eSIM and a regular SIM card?

A regular SIM card is a tiny chip you put inside your phone. An eSIM is built into the phone and you set it up digitally. eSIMs are easier for switching plans, but you should check if your travel country supports them.

Can I use my unlocked phone in any country?

Most new unlocked phones work in lots of countries, but not all. Each country uses different network bands. Before you go, check if your phone matches the bands for the country you’ll visit.

Will I keep my phone number if I use a local SIM card?

No, when you use a local SIM, your phone will have a new number from that country. If you want to keep your usual number for things like banking, you can use dual SIM or eSIM features to have both numbers at once.

Are budget phones good enough for travel?

Yes, many budget phones work great for travel if they are unlocked and support the right networks. They might not have the fanciest cameras, but they will still call, text, and use data just fine.

Is it safe to buy an unlocked phone online?

It’s usually safe if you buy from trusted stores or directly from the phone maker. Always check that the phone is really unlocked and supports the networks you need before you buy.