Using my phone as a Paris guidebook cost me $50 — here’s how to save on your bill when traveling abroad

## Don’t Get Zapped by International Cell Phone Fees!

Traveling abroad can be an amazing experience, but unexpected cell phone charges can put a damper on your trip. This article offers advice on how to avoid those costly international roaming fees. Here’s a breakdown of the key takeaways:

• **The Problem:** The author experienced nearly $50 in extra charges during a five-day trip to Paris due to international roaming fees from their carrier, AT&T.
• **Carrier Plans:** Many carriers, like AT&T, charge a daily fee for international cell use. T-Mobile offers some plans with international roaming included, which can be a cost-effective option for frequent travelers.
• **T-Mobile Considerations:** Not all T-Mobile plans include international roaming, and even those that do may have limitations on data speed or call charges. Also, T-Mobile plans don’t work in every country.
• **SIM Cards and eSIMs:** Buying a local SIM card or using a digital eSIM is often a cheaper alternative to carrier international plans. These allow you to use local data rates.
• **Wi-Fi is Your Friend:** Utilizing free Wi-Fi at hotels, restaurants, and other locations can significantly reduce data usage and associated costs.
• **Offline Strategies:** Download offline maps, articles, and guidebooks before your trip to minimize your reliance on cellular data.
• **Security:** Be cautious when using public Wi-Fi, especially for sensitive transactions. Consider using your cellular network for added security in those cases.
• **The Author’s Solution:** The author successfully avoided extra fees on a recent trip by using Airplane mode and public Wi-Fi.

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