It really depends upon where you are traveling.  If you are stateside, then the only issue may be the cost for roaming and using a system other than the one provided by your carrier.  If you are using a no-contract system, like MetroPCS, then make sure that you pay for nationwide coverage.  The last time we did that, it only cost an extra $5 per month.

Most service providers have excellent information on their websites about where they provide coverage. We have never had an issue with coverage in the Continental US, Alaska or Hawaii, but check with your service provider.

As for using your existing  phone in Europe, that may be a different situation, completely dependent up on where you want to call.

For example, it may be cheaper to get a couple of disposable phones, or better yet, walkie-talkies, to use if you are just wanting to stay in touch with family members who are on the trip with you.  If you are looking for a phone to call family members back home, then read on.

1) The first requirement for using a cell phone overseas is to have a phone that uses GSM (Global System Mobile) technology. T-Mobile, some AT&T phones, and the newer Sprint  and  Verizon smart phones are equipped with this technology. Check this out before you go if you plan to use your existing phone overseas since it often needs to be “turned on” before you leave home.

Before you get into the issue of “Unlocking” your phone, you may want to consider buying a used GSM phone, or use one of your old ones since you probably still have one around if you upgraded to a smart phone.  You may not want to make these changes to your brand new smart phone.

2) You need the “unlock codes” to unlock your phone and use it overseas. For $5, you can get the codes from thetravelinsider.info.

3) You will need a country-specific SIM card to buy pre-paid minutes for the country in which you are traveling. You can buy pre-paid minutes from telestial.com. The company will send you a SIM card that you use to replace the current SIM inside your phone.

Let me know how it worked for you, so that I can make necessary changes to this blog.

Thanks, and have a great trip.

P.S. I have written some additional information about using your cell phone while traveling since technology has moved forward since this blog was written. More Info Here.

———————————————————————-

Turning Dreams into Memories,
One Vacation at a Time.
Bon Voyage!!!

As you might guess, this document is a compilation of information from our travels as well as from other travelers. I hope it has been of value to you.  Check out the important links below.

                    Packing Checklist    Parent Authorization Letter For Unaccompanied Minors

                Medical Treatment Authorization Letter     Travel With Minors-Permission Letter

Don’t hesitate to email us when you return from your trip with any suggestions that will make this document better for you and your fellow travelers!