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 quickly sour the fun. This article dives into how to avoid those hefty international roaming fees and keep your travel budget intact.

• The Problem: The author experienced almost $50 in extra charges during a five-day trip to Paris, primarily from using their phone for routine tasks like checking restaurant hours.
• Understand Your Plan: Many carriers, like AT&T, charge a daily fee for international cell use. Check your plan’s international roaming policy before you go.
• Consider T-Mobile: Some T-Mobile plans offer international roaming, potentially saving money for travelers who don’t need constant data. However, be aware of limitations, such as potential charges for calls and data usage in certain countries.
• Explore eSIMs/International SIM Cards: Buying a local SIM card or using a digital eSIM is often a cheaper alternative, allowing you to manage your data budget more easily. Established providers like Saily, GigSky, and Airalo are recommended.
• Unlock Your Phone: Before using an eSIM, ensure your phone is unlocked by your current carrier.
• Embrace Wi-Fi: Utilize free Wi-Fi whenever possible, even in Airplane mode.
• Offline Resources: Download offline maps on Google Maps and any essential PDFs or guidebooks to reduce your reliance on cellular data.
• Wi-Fi Security: Avoid sensitive transactions on public Wi-Fi networks.
• The Author’s Success: By using Airplane mode and Wi-Fi, the author avoided extra cell fees on a recent trip to Namibia and Botswana.

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