April 17th, 2009 by admin

Few years ago, having a cell phone while one backpacked to International destinations would seem like a crazy idea. Today, while it’s not impossible to get around without one, a cell phone can become a handy travel tool either to keep those ties back home warm, or only for safety’s sake.

But first, some background: Cell phones from T-Mobile and AT&T rely on the same type of network (called GSM) that most of the rest of the world uses. In theory then, you can take these phones to other countries on International Roaming and make calls as usual (Most Verizon and Sprint phones work only in the United States).

Unfortunately, International roaming runs from $1 to $5 a minute, a 20-minute call home from Europe on an AT&T cell phone will cost a cool $50.

One of the best ways to cut your roaming costs and International calling expenses when you travel is to get an International SIM card for the Country you are travelling too. Most people already have a mobile phone and many do not realize that you can take your mobile phone with you as it will work around the world. To do this, you need to check that your phone is:

1. Tri or Quad Band Mobile Phone (most phones today are - just check your phones manual)
2. Unlocked

Chances are your cell phone will be locked by your service provider, in such case you can either get it un-locked or buy a cheap un-locked Cell Phone at a cost which will otherwise be a fraction of your cell phone bill with International Roaming. Plus you can use this cell phone again the next time you travel to save even more by only buying a SIM card then.

One such company that offers International Cell Phone Solutions is RebelFone Inc focusing solely on travelers, they have wireless solutions available for 200+ Countries.

You can either get a local Country specific SIM card if you are traveling to a single Country or Europe SIM Card or World SIM card if you are traveling to multiple destinations within Europe or anywhere in the World respectively.

RebelFone have alliances with 38 mobile networks across the world, and through the strength of their global relationships they provide low cost alternative to International Roaming. RebelFone SIM cards comes absolutely free, there is a small one time activation fee of $14.99 and no other charge. On call rates you can save as much 65% - 80% off your carrier roaming rates. For example, if you are traveling to UK, with RebelFone UK Sim card you can call USA for as little as $0.25 per minute, i.e. a 20-minute call home from UK will only cost $5

RebelFone service works on a simple post-paid model, so no need to worry about reloading credit while you are away, you will simply be billed for the usage you had by the end of the month.