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

## Don’t Get Burned 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 explores how to avoid those pesky international roaming fees and keep your budget intact. Here’s a breakdown of the key takeaways:

• **The Problem:** The author experienced almost $50 in extra charges during a five-day trip to Paris due to international roaming fees from their carrier.
• **Carrier Options:**
  • 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.
  • However, T-Mobile plans have limitations, such as not covering all countries and potentially incurring extra charges for phone calls.
• **Alternative Solutions:**
  • **International SIM Cards/eSIMs:** These are generally a cheaper option than carrier international packages, allowing you to use your phone as a local device. Popular providers include Saily, GigSky, and Airalo.
  • **Wi-Fi:** Utilize free Wi-Fi at hotels, restaurants, etc., and put your phone on Airplane mode to avoid roaming charges.
  • **Offline Resources:** Download offline maps (Google Maps) and helpful articles/guidebooks to reduce your reliance on cellular data.
• **Important Considerations:**
  • Check your current cell plan’s international offerings.
  • Unlock your phone before traveling if you plan to use an eSIM.
  • Be aware that your phone number may temporarily change when using a new SIM.
  • Avoid sensitive transactions over public Wi-Fi for security reasons.
• **The Author’s Success:** By using Airplane mode and public Wi-Fi, the author avoided any extra cell fees on a recent trip to Namibia and Botswana.

Want to learn more about saving money on your phone bill while traveling? Check out the original article [here](insert_article_link_here).