When planning for an international trip, you may be aggressively budgeting for things like airfare, lodging, meals out and all the other essential and obvious expenses. But don’t forget about one sneaky cost that could seem to hit from out of nowhere: an elevated cellphone bill. Data roaming charges can be astronomical and all too easy to rack up while abroad.
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Fortunately, there are ways to get ahead of this potentially surprising cost. Pre-trip preparation is key. Here’s what to do.
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Invest In a Pocket Wi-Fi Device
If you’re a frequent international traveler, it’s worth it to invest in your own pocket Wi-Fi device.
“I have a GlocalMe that I bought for around $100 on Amazon, and have used it in Japan, India and all over Europe,” said Adeline Kuroki of Savor & Soak Travel Co. “Once you own the device, you can log into your account and purchase a full monthly data plan, or just data for a week or two in different destinations for really reasonable rates. An added bonus to using a Wi-Fi device over an international plan on your phone is that you can connect other devices as well.”
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Or, Rent a Pocket Wi-Fi Device While Abroad
If you’re not traveling to other countries more than, say, a few times a year, consider renting one instead.
“The last time my husband and I were both in Japan, he rented a pocket Wi-Fi from a local company, Pupuru, and I used my GlocalMe,” Kuroki said. “For about the same price, the speed on his Pupuru device was much higher! The one downside with using a local company is that you’re spending time at the airport picking it up, or having it sent to your first hotel, meaning you won’t have it for your airport transfer.”
Get a Local SIM Card
Once you reach your destination, it makes great sense to get a SIM card there.
“For decades now my first choice has been to get a local SIM at my destination,” said Nicole (Nikki) Beauchamp, NYRS, associate broker at Sotheby’s International Realty. “Thanks to technological advances there are also eSIM possibilities.”
Download Messaging Apps
If you want to cut costs on your cellphone bill while traveling internationally, it’s crucial to download free messaging apps such as WhatsApp so that you can stay in touch with people all over the world without having to tap pricey SMS.