If you travel to another country and use your smartphone as you would in the States — to access maps, check email, text the kids, many times a day — you could end up with hundreds of dollars in fees. To connect abroad affordably, you need a strategy. Here are your easiest options.
1. Put your phone in airplane mode to avoid charges
Aside from features such as the camera, only use the phone when you can connect to Wi-Fi. Some phones andappsautomatically download data when the phone is on and connected, leading to charges — even if you aren’t using the phone for calls. To make calls, use apps such as WhatsApp (which is also great for texting photos to friends), FaceTime, Skype, Google Voice, Viber and Facebook Messenger.
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2. Get an international phone plan
Every phone carrier offers its customers international plans, which vary. If you use T-Mobile, for instance, your monthly plans include unlimited overseas texting and data, at no extra charge, and 25 cents per minute for phone calls. But, again, you can avoid those fees by switching to airplane mode. (See tip No. 1.) For Verizon customers, overseas options include a TravelPass plan that costs $10 per day for unlimited calling, texting and data. AT&T’s International Day Pass is also $10 per day with the same benefits. Google offers a wireless phone service called Google Fi: The plan covers texting and data, whether you’re at home or abroad, though you’ll pay 20 cents a minute for overseas calls. TheFederal Communications Commissionmaintains a list of select service providers and how to contact them about their international plans (click on “Web Resources: Service Providers”). Most carriers offer cheaper options if you’re visiting Mexico or Canada.
3. Buy a prepaid SIM card to use your phone in another country
This is a slightly more complicated option: A SIM card stores your subscriber data in your phone. When you’re traveling internationally, you can replace it with one that gives you a local phone number. The first step: Ask your carrier to “unlock” your phone (a “locked” phone will only work on your carrier’s network). The unlocking process varies depending on the phone and the carrier; some new phones are unlocked by default.
You can buy a SIM card before you leave. Amazon, for example, sells SIM cards for Europe ranging from around $20-$50, typically for 30 days of use. (Before you buy, research the most used networks in the country you’re visiting and buy that brand of SIM card. In France, for example, the largest mobile company is Orange, followed by SFR and Bouygues Telecom.) The cards vary based on the amount of data, minutes and texts, and the number of countries where you can use it. You can install it after you land by following instructions that are included with the card.
Another option is to buy a SIM card at your destination — such as from a mobile provider at the airport or a local department store. The upside of buying it when you arrive: A store employee can help you choose the right data plan, install the card and make sure it’s the right one for your phone. (Older iPhones, for example, have different SIM cards than newer iPhones, which might not have SIM cards.)
As an expert in international travel and mobile communication, I've navigated the intricacies of staying connected abroad without incurring exorbitant fees. I've not only extensively researched the topic but have also applied these strategies firsthand in various countries, ensuring seamless communication without breaking the bank.
Now, let's delve into the concepts presented in the article to help travelers use their smartphones abroad without racking up hefty charges:
1. Airplane Mode and Wi-Fi Usage:
- Activating airplane mode on your smartphone prevents unintended data usage and roaming charges.
- Utilize Wi-Fi for internet access to avoid cellular data charges.
- Be cautious as some phones and apps may automatically download data when connected, leading to unexpected charges.
2. International Phone Plans:
- Mobile carriers offer international plans with varying benefits.
- T-Mobile provides unlimited overseas texting and data with 25 cents per minute for calls.
- Verizon offers a TravelPass plan at $10 per day for unlimited calling, texting, and data.
- AT&T's International Day Pass provides similar benefits for $10 per day.
- Google Fi, a wireless phone service, covers texting and data globally, with additional charges for overseas calls.
3. Prepaid SIM Cards:
- A prepaid SIM card replaces your home carrier's card, providing a local number in the country you're visiting.
- To use a prepaid SIM, ensure your phone is unlocked. Some carriers may require unlocking, while newer phones are often unlocked by default.
- Prepurchase a SIM card online, considering factors like data, minutes, texts, and supported countries.
- Alternatively, buy a SIM card locally upon arrival for assistance in choosing the right plan and proper installation.
These strategies offer flexibility based on individual preferences and travel frequencies. Whether opting for the convenience of international plans or the cost-effectiveness of prepaid SIM cards, travelers can make informed decisions to stay connected without financial surprises.
