Hello Friends,
The rain here is raining. :/ so while I am inside, I will type more articles… hahaha.. This is one that I based off some questions I have received about cell service when traveling.
I hope you find it interesting.
Cell Phone Service For Travel : Tips and Tricks
Have you ever been traveling and found yourself without a SIM card or mobile phone service? If you have, then you know how frustrating it is. Not being able to call friends, family members, or clients can be exhausting. It can also be difficult to find transportation, food, or hotel accommodation when your phone is not working. All the frustration and exhaustion aside, there are different ways to keep your phone service while traveling. Whether you're looking for a travel SIM card or international cell phone plan, we've got all the information that you'll need right here!
How to get cell service while traveling
The easiest way to get cell service while traveling is to purchase a travel SIM card.
A travel SIM card will allow you to use your current phone in other countries by inserting the SIM card into the phone and using it with a local carrier. Usually, this will only cost you one fee, and then you can just insert the card into your phone when you arrive at your destination. If you're looking for a more permanent solution, you might want to consider an international cell phone plan.
International cell phones plans are typically much more expensive than a single-fee travel SIM card, but they'll provide more long-term benefits if that's what you're looking for. You'll still be able to call or text family members or friends while abroad, but this option will also include data and calling minutes, so it's perfect for those who want to stay connected on their vacation.
Personally, I looked into the travel plan, but the cost vs returns are just not right for me.
What cell phone carrier is best for international travel?
This is a difficult question to answer. It largely depends on your needs and how much you're willing to spend. For example, a prepaid SIM card could be the cheapest option, but you'll need to go through an additional process when purchasing it. For some people, that's okay because they don't need a ton of data or minutes. If you want more minutes or data, then you'll have to pay more for one of the major carriers like AT&T or T-Mobile.
The cheapest way to use your phone overseas.
If you're looking for a way to use your phone overseas, then the cheapest way to do this is with a travel SIM card. A travel SIM card is a prepaid SIM that you can purchase before you leave for your trip so that you'll have the same service as if you were in your home country. Or, I have had luck picking up a SIM card at the place you are visiting, most times for around $5 - $30, depending on the data plan with it.
You'll need to either buy an unlocked phone or unlock it before your departure. Once you have the SIM and have it set up, calls will cost no more than $0.20 per minute while text messages will be $0.05 each. There are also options for data, ranging from $5-$15 per day.
You can also buy a cheap phone at your destination to act as your local phone, and use WiFi on your main phone.
Avoid phone charges when traveling internationally
The simplest way to avoid phone charges when traveling internationally is to purchase a travel SIM card. A SIM card is a chip that stores your phone's data and it can be used in other countries to get you cell service.
Travel SIM cards are perfect for those who want to enjoy their vacation without the worry of getting hit with exorbitant roaming charges. Just be sure to check with your wireless provider before purchasing a travel SIM card so that you can verify international coverage and data usage rates.
I would also recommend turning off the setting in your phone that says "use roaming data". Sometimes, you may not even know your phone is roaming and racking up a large bill.
How to find cell phone service in remote mountains
The most remote mountains in the world are the Himalayas. Travelers who want to trek through these mountains in order to reach a more populated area will need to be able to find cell phone service. Luckily, it's not too difficult for travelers to find cell phone service in remote mountains... if they have the money. There is one main option for finding cell phone service: I suggest you buy or rent a satellite phone. I have seen a few websites where you can rent a SAT phone for $35 a week and up.
Most times, even in remote locations, you will find Wi-Fi that you can connect to for some basic level of communication. Or, sometimes, its best to just let the phone saty off and enjoy the moment.
The mobile hotspot is your friend
If you're in need of a travel SIM card but don't want to jailbreak your phone, or take our your main sim, one option is the mobile hotspot. The mobile hotspot will not only give you coverage for your phone, but it also has the capability to connect up to five other devices at once. That way, everyone in your traveling party can stay connected. The mobile hotspot comes with either a prepaid SIM card or a data-only SIM card. This means that you'll be able to use your phone as usual without paying outrageous amounts for roaming charges.
What I tend to do, is use my tablet as a hot spot. I will buy a travel SIM, put it on the tablet, and when required, just turn on its mobile hotspot. Then link my phone to it. This way, I will get a local number with a local sim, and I can still use my primary phone with no need to unlock it or swap sim chips.
VOPI Phone Number
VOIP phone numbers are a new way to get a phone number. They are virtual phone numbers that you can use to make and receive calls. Unlike a regular phone number, a VOIP number is not attached to a physical phone. You can use it with an app on your phone, or with a VOIP service like Skype.
I make use of VOIP numbers for all my important US - based businesses. This allows me to travel and not have to worry about maintaining an expensive cell plan back home.
The company I use is https://www.line2.com/
Final Thoughts
There are many options for cell phone service while traveling. Depending on your needs and budget, you can choose a plan that will work best for you. If you're looking for an affordable option that offers great coverage, consider a prepaid plan. If you need more flexibility, consider a plan that allows you to use your phone internationally. Whatever option you decide, be sure to research the available coverage in the areas where you'll be traveling before you go. :)
Thank you for joining me today, I hope you enjoyed this article.
| Travel Photos: | @RoamingSparrow |
| Photo Repository: | Roamingsparrow.SmugMug.com |
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Thanks for reading my post, you inspire me to keep posting!