We just want to have emergency use and/or quick brief call availability. We are leaving 9/18/13. We thought about texting with our AT&T account. Or should be get a phone card there? It is giving me a headache to decide. And my hubby thinks we can do without a phone. I don't since I can't find him in the same grocery store without a phone. Any suggestions will be very helpful.
Posted by
Vernon, Canada
32345 posts
Beth, Given your location (I assume you mean "Sacramento"), it's unfortunate that you weren't aware of the RS group that usually meets there on a monthly basis. The well travelled group there would have been able to help you sort out all the details of your trip. Based on the information you've posted, I assume your "home phone" is an AT&T iPhone? If that's the case, the easiest solution would be to simply purchase text / voice / data "travel packs" with AT&T, as the rates are reasonable for occasional use. The travel packs provide cheaper rates for international roaming. Which model iPhone are you using? If you won't need data, I would HIGHLY RECOMMEND that you disable cellular data and just access the net when in Wi-Fi areas, as the roaming charges can be HUGE! Have a chat with AT&T customer service for all the details and costs. Happy travels!
Posted by
OP
Sacramento, CA
21 posts
Thank you!!!
Posted by
Ann Arbor, Mi
3696 posts
If you only need texting and the occasional/emergency phone call the cheapest is just purchase the international text package (50 OUTGOING texts for about $10... INCOMING are free... so people from US can text you) Then you want to see the rates for phone calls per minute and whether it is worth it or not to pay for an international call package. You do have to cancel each of those service when you get home. Usually the call plan saves about 50%, but it costs, so if you are not planning any calls, then just stick with texting. No need for any data plan unless you want to spend a fortune, so as stated above...turn it off.
It is a great peace of mind to have the phone that you can be reached if necessary. I just make sure my texts are long enough as you are charged per text.
Posted by
OP
Sacramento, CA
21 posts
Kathryn, this makes sense. Thank you!
Posted by
San Diego
1 posts
You can download an application called Viber (available for iPhones and Android) to text or call via wireless. The recipient must also have the Viber application. If there is free WiFi where you are, that means free texts and calls. You can even send photos.