Keeping in touch with people back home doesn’t have to break the bank when you are abroad. But chances are if you don’t plan ahead, tapping into local phone networks when you’re on the road can cost you a bundle, especially when you are overseas. Here are a few tips for saving on roaming charges while traveling internationally:
Call your service provider
You may be able to make calls while traveling, but data and text messaging services may be unavailable, so get the right information before assuming your phone will work while you are abroad.
Be aware of the roaming rates
If you determine that your phone will work, review the rates for using your phone in your travel destination. When a wireless carrier that is not your local one provides the necessary signal, it is called roaming. Keep in mind that you may be charged for incoming calls and text messages, which means you don’t have complete control over your roaming costs. Don’t be afraid to ask questions if you do not understand something. Roaming can get complicated, and unanswered questions could mean huge phone bills. See if it would be worth your while to add an international service plan of some kind.
Consider alternatives
The FCC suggests looking into different options that may help you avoid roaming altogether. See about using a SIM card to turn your device into a local phone. It may be less expensive for you to buy or rent an entirely new phone, depending on how long you will be abroad. Prepaid SIM cards are another option.
Turn off
If you are using an iPhone, remember to turn off apps, data roaming and fetch data; these will use up data. When these update, they use up valuable data. Set your iPhone to airplane mode. Switch your setting to manual or push so you do not receive emails automatically.
Save your pictures for later
If you are using a smart phone, resist the urge to upload pictures from your mobile while roaming. Wait until you have Internet access or are home. Remember that you may be able to use WiFi to save on roaming charges.
Have you experienced incurring extremely high data roaming charges while overseas? Share your similar experiences with us!
Source: Fox News Travel
Image: Telecoms
