Traveling abroad is an exciting adventure, but staying connected while exploring new destinations is crucial. Whether you need to check in with family, coordinate with colleagues, or navigate through a foreign city, knowing how to make phone calls while overseas can be a lifesaver.
Unfortunately, the convenience of using your phone abroad can come with the risk of exorbitant roaming fees if you’re not prepared. The good news? There are plenty of ways to keep in touch without breaking the bank.
In this guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about making phone calls while traveling abroad. From understanding roaming charges to exploring the best alternatives and money-saving strategies, we’ve got you covered. Let’s dive in and ensure you stay connected no matter where your travels take you.
What are Roaming Charges and How to Avoid Them?
Roaming charges are additional fees that mobile carriers impose when you use your phone outside your home country. When you’re traveling, your carrier connects to a foreign network, which is what triggers these charges. These fees can apply to calls, texts, and data usage, often leading to an unpleasant surprise when you return home to a hefty bill.
The best way to avoid excessive roaming charges is to plan. Before you leave, contact your carrier and ask about international plans. Many mobile providers offer packages that include a set amount of data, calls, and texts for a flat fee.
This can be an excellent way to avoid the unpredictable costs of standard roaming rates. Make sure you understand how your plan works and whether there are any restrictions based on your destination.
Cost-Effective Alternatives to Roaming
While roaming can be convenient, it’s not always the most budget-friendly option. Thankfully, there are several alternatives you can consider, each with its benefits:
Activate International Call Add-ons
One of the most straightforward options is to add an international plan to your existing mobile service. Most carriers offer travel packages that include discounted rates for calls, texts, and data usage. This means you can use your phone just like you would at home, but without the sky-high charges.
Before activating, take a look at the countries included in the plan, and make sure the package suits your travel needs. Some plans cover multiple regions, while others might be limited to specific areas.
Use a Local SIM Card
If you’re staying abroad for an extended period or visiting multiple countries, consider purchasing a local SIM card. Local SIM cards offer competitive rates for calls, texts, and data, making it cheaper than using your home network. To use a local SIM, your phone needs to be unlocked, which allows it to accept SIM cards from different carriers.
You can usually buy these cards at airports, convenience stores, or mobile shops, and they come with easy-to-follow instructions for setup. This is an excellent option if you plan to make a lot of local calls during your trip.
Purchase a Prepaid International Phone Card
Prepaid phone cards are another cost-effective solution, especially for travelers who want to keep strict control over their spending. These cards allow you to pre-load a specific amount of credit, which can be used to make calls. They often include instructions on how to dial internationally, which can simplify the process.
Prepaid cards can be found online, at airports, and in convenience stores across the world. While they may seem old-fashioned, they offer a great deal of flexibility and control.
Consider a Burner Phone
For those who don’t want to risk losing their primary smartphone, a burner phone can be a practical choice. These are inexpensive phones that can be bought and used exclusively for your travels. Simply insert a local SIM card, and you’ll be able to make and receive calls without worrying about your main device.
This also provides a layer of security, as you can leave your regular phone at your hotel or home, minimizing the risk of loss or theft.
Using Technology to Make Calls Abroad
In today’s digital age, there are multiple ways to make calls using technology without relying on traditional phone networks. Here are some of the most effective solutions:
WiFi Calling Apps
If you have access to a reliable WiFi connection, you can use apps like WhatsApp, Skype, Viber, and Zoom to make calls over the internet. These apps allow you to make voice and video calls for free, or at a low cost, by using WiFi instead of your mobile network.
Most hotels, cafes, and even airports offer free WiFi, which can help you stay connected without using your mobile data. Before traveling, ensure that your contacts also have the same apps installed, as this will make it easier to communicate without any barriers.
Virtual Phone Numbers
Virtual phone numbers are perfect for travelers who need to maintain a local presence without dealing with physical SIM cards. These numbers allow you to receive calls via an app, and your contacts can reach you without dialing international codes. This is especially beneficial for business travelers who want to keep their communications professional and seamless.
You can set up virtual numbers for specific countries, ensuring that you always appear local, even if you’re on the other side of the world.
Understanding International Dialing and Language Barriers
Making calls while abroad isn’t just about finding a cost-effective method; it also involves understanding how to dial correctly and, in some cases, dealing with language differences.
International Dialing Codes
International dialing can be confusing if you’re not familiar with the process. Each country has a unique code, which you need to enter before the actual phone number. Typically, you’ll dial “+” followed by the country code, then the area code, and finally the phone number.
For instance, to call a number in the United States from Europe, you would dial +1, followed by the area code and the phone number. Familiarizing yourself with these codes and how they work can prevent frustration and ensure that your calls connect without issues.
Translation Apps for Calls
If you find yourself needing to communicate with locals who don’t speak your language, translation apps can be incredibly helpful. Apps like Google Translate offer real-time translation, which can bridge language gaps during phone calls.
For business or emergencies, consider services that offer live translation assistance, making it easier to convey your message accurately and clearly.
Learn Basic Phrases
Even if you rely on translation apps, learning a few essential phrases can make a significant difference. Simple words like “hello,” “please,” “thank you,” and “do you speak English?” can help you establish rapport and navigate through basic conversations. It shows respect for the local culture and can often lead to a more positive interaction.
Receiving Calls While Traveling
It’s not just about making calls—receiving them can also be tricky when you’re abroad. Here are a few things to consider:
Call Forwarding from Your U.S. Number
If you need to stay accessible to contacts in your home country, setting up call forwarding might be the best option. This service allows you to forward incoming calls from your regular number to your international number or virtual phone. This way, you won’t miss important calls, but be aware that there may be fees associated with this service.
Make sure to understand your provider’s terms and pricing before enabling call forwarding.
How Others Can Call You Abroad?
When someone calls you from your home country while you’re overseas, they might incur charges depending on their service plan. It’s wise to inform your friends and family about the most cost-effective ways to reach you.
For example, suggest that they use apps like WhatsApp or Skype, which allow them to make internet-based calls for free. This can save both you and the caller a significant amount of money.
Money-Saving Tips for International Travelers
Keeping communication costs down while traveling doesn’t have to be complicated. Here are some essential tips to help you save money:
Buy Before You Fly
Whenever possible, purchase prepaid SIM cards, international phone cards, or portable WiFi devices online before you travel. This approach allows you to compare deals, read reviews, and avoid the higher prices often found at tourist hotspots. Pre-ordering also means you’ll be connected the moment you land, without having to navigate through airport shops.
Use Free WiFi Wherever You Can
Free WiFi is available in many places, including cafes, hotels, airports, and public spaces. Using these networks can help you avoid data charges, especially when making internet-based calls or browsing the web. If you’re visiting a city, look into local WiFi maps that can guide you to free hotspots throughout the area.
Limit Data Usage
Data usage can quickly add up, so try to minimize your need for it. Download maps, translation tools, and other essential information before you leave, so you can access them offline.
Switch off background data and app auto-updates to ensure you’re not using data unnecessarily while traveling. Setting up a limit on your data usage can also help you keep track of your consumption.
Conclusion
Making phone calls while traveling abroad doesn’t have to be stressful or expensive. With a little preparation and the right tools, you can stay connected without worrying about excessive charges. From choosing the right international plan to leveraging WiFi calling apps, there are numerous ways to keep in touch with friends, family, and colleagues no matter where you are in the world.
Take the time to research your options, understand how international calling works, and plan so that you can focus on enjoying your travels without any communication hassles. Happy traveling!
