LG Xenon GR500

LG Xenon GR500

How To Find The Right International Cell Phone

For You

Executive Summary by Michael Furniss

In truth you really only have 3 main options with international cell phones, and the major factor that will affect your decision is whether you want the easiest and most convenient option, or the option that has the cheapest call rates, because you can only have one or the other.

1. Check if you can use your own cell phone

If you have the right type of cell phone, you may be able to use it when you travel abroad or your cell phone using cell phone provider with international services.

Buy LG Xenon GR500 Phone, Blue (AT&T)

2. Rent an international cell phone

If you cannot use your own cell phone abroad then you can rent an international cell phone that will work, just for the period of your trip. The cost of the calls will vary, depending on what type of SIM card the rental phone uses. If it uses a global SIM card then your calls will be higher priced, but if you are traveling to a number of countries you will keep the same number. If it uses a local SIM card your calls will be cheaper, but you will need a different local SIM card for each country you plan to visit.

3. Buy your own international cell phone

The cost to buy your own second cell phone, just for international travel, has now come within the reach of all travelers. As with renting an international cell phone, the cost of your calls will depend on what type of SIM card your phone uses. If you use a global SIM card, you will keep the same number in every country but your call charges will be a little higher.

Conclusion — If you cannot use your own cell phone, buying a second one is generally more cost effective than renting every time. If you bottom line is cheaper calls, and you are happy to put in a bit of effort to get them, then buy a phone and use local SIM cards (but don’t overlook the cost to buy each individual SIM card when you do your price analysis).

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