International Phone Plans: Essential Tips for Travelers

International trips are always a blast but if you’re like us, staying connected while traveling abroad can be a challenge. So how can you avoid those pesky roaming charges and find reliable service? There are several factors you can consider when choosing what phone plan is best for you. Here is what we think you should know!

What do you need to use your phone for?

Think about how you plan to use your phone. Are you using it for navigation or social media? Will you be calling your kiddos or folks back at home and how frequent will these calls be? If you know how you’ll be using your phone most you can pick a phone plan that fits your needs without breaking the bank.

Look into your current phone plan.

So many carriers now have international options as part of regular plans. Contact your provider and ask what packages they offer. If the price is right, adding a short-term international plan to your existing service might be the most cost-effective route. 

Purchase an International SIM Card.

If you are planning to visit multiple countries an international SIM card is the way to go! These SIM cards allow you to switch between networks without changing your number and work in various regions. Still do your due diligence and research coverage in the destinations you’re visiting to compare the rates.

Buy a SIM card on location.

When staying in one country for a longer period of time a local SIM card is a budget-friendly option. These can be purchased at a convenience store, mobile shop, and sometimes even the airport. Remember to make sure your phone is unlocked and able to use a local SIM card before selecting this option.

Utilize Wi-Fi when you can.
Taking advantage of Wi-Fi is something we do whenever possible. Many public places offer free Wi-Fi and allow you to keep connected without racking up your phone bill. If this is your preferred method consider downloading your maps to use offline while exploring. 

If you need to use Wi-Fi for multiple devices, you can also can consider purchasing or renting a Hotspot.

Research travel-specific phone plans.

For short-term international travel, some carriers will offer plans at a flat fee. These usually offer a set amount of data, texts, and calls. Be aware of potential hidden fees like taxes, activation, or overages. Read the fine print!

Use apps to communicate.

WhatsApp, Signal, and Skype allow you to stay connecting without relying on traditional phone networks. Stay in touch with others using these apps and make voice and video calls via the internet.

Monitor your data usage.

Track your data usage to make sure you’re staying within your plan’s limits. There are apps you can download to help track and alert you when you’re close, but truthfully many smartphones have these tools already built in. 

No matter what phone plan option you choose, we understand that staying connected with loved ones, work, social media, or whomever can be very important. Think about your needs, do your research, and utilize the technology available to you.

Safe Travels!