Use this phone hack to make free international calls on your next trip abroad

23.08.2024 - 15:19 / thepointsguy.com

When you get home from an international trip, you can expect to return to a few loads of laundry, a pile of mail and probably a handful of work emails you've been ignoring. One thing you shouldn't have to worry about is an astronomical cellphone bill littered with international calling fees.

Most phone companies charge a per-minute rate for international calls outside of Mexico and Canada; the exact rate varies per country.

Many phone companies also offer international calling plans as an add-on to your monthly service. Verizon, for example, offers a $10 per day TravelPass for unlimited talk, text and data in more than 210 countries, but you will only be charged on the days you use it. Similarly, T-Mobile has an International Pass with unlimited calling and varying levels of high-speed international data for $5 per day, $35 for 10 days or $50 for 30 days.

These charges can add up quickly if you travel for an extended period and call home often, but there is a better way.

A simple hack can help you save money and keep in touch with your friends, loved ones and coworkers. All you need is a smartphone and a communication app like FaceTime, WhatsApp, Skype, Zoom or Facebook Messenger.

Rather than connecting to a cellular network, apps like FaceTime, WhatsApp, Skype, Zoom and Facebook Messenger use Wi-Fi or mobile data. As long as you are in an area with Wi-Fi and an active internet connection, you can use one of these apps to make voice or video calls to your friends and family. Some of these options also allow for text chats.

Related: Cruising or traveling abroad this summer? Why these cellphone packages can be your best travel companion

To use these apps, both parties will need to install them, sign up for a free account and have access to a stable internet connection. In terms of safety, you'll be happy to learn that all of these apps use end-to-end encryption to keep your calls and messages safe and private.

For example, both parties will need to have an Apple device with FaceTime enabled in order to use FaceTime. What's nice about FaceTime is that you can use your iPad or MacBook in addition to your iPhone. If you have an iPhone running iOS 15 or later, you do have the option to invite Android users to calls that are already in progress.

Related: 6 tips to prepare before extended trips abroad

It's easiest to complete the setup process before your trip so you can ensure everything is in order before you leave. You will also want to let your friends and family know which app you plan to use for calls while you are out of the country so they can do the same.

Then, when you are on your international trip, you can open your preferred app and either find the person you want to call in your contact list