I use MetroPCS 4 unlimited lines for $100. Only caveat is no hotspot, but supposedly that can be bypassed. I only have three lines (me, wife, MIL) so I put the fourth sim into an ZTE Trek 2 (AT&T bands, unlocked) tablet, so we have an HSPDA tablet when we travel that can stream video without WIFI.
I just bought a couple of
Essential Phones. I have been rooting my phones for years. Just like a phone unlocked. So, I bought the device outright and purchased the 2-year protection plan directly from them. It's averages out to $4.13 month to cover damage claims. It's $99 deductible for each claim.
The device has a ceramic back, titanium frame and Gorilla 3 glass. It uses a type C connector for charging, just like my current Nexus 6P. It feels like you are just holding a screen. Hardly any bezel. It the same 5.7" real estate as the 6P. Smaller size.
Now, going with a better network. When I'm on the road I'm going to stream through Plex. Not to mention, running everything through my VPN. I'm stoked at having my network in more places. Going to use it as a mobile hotspot for sure. Trusted network and secured by me. All the bad guys know is that I'm fully encrypted all the way to the Toronto area. Oh and I got the 360° camera attachment!