Picture this: you're on a dreamy cruise, sailing to exotic destinations, but then you receive a dreaded text message from your cell phone carrier warning you of astronomical roaming charges. Don't let surprise charges dampen your cruise experience! In this blog post, we'll explore how to avoid roaming charges on a cruise ship and onshore internationally. We'll also discuss common apps to use, cell phone carriers' Wi-Fi calling, and how to use your cell phone onshore with an international calling plan or a new SIM card.
1. Avoiding Roaming Charges on a Cruise Ship:
a. Switch off Roaming: Before setting sail, turn off cellular data and roaming on your phone. This ensures you won't accidentally connect to foreign networks and incur hefty charges.
b. Connect to the Ship's Wi-Fi: Most modern cruise ships offer onboard Wi-Fi services. While some may have a fee, it's often cheaper than roaming charges. Use Wi-Fi for internet access and communication through apps.
c. Use Airplane Mode with Wi-Fi: If the cruise ship offers Wi-Fi packages, consider using airplane mode with Wi-Fi enabled. This prevents your phone from constantly searching for cellular networks, saving battery life.
2. Staying Connected Onshore Internationally:
a. Wi-Fi Hotspots: Seek out Wi-Fi hotspots at cafes, hotels, or tourist attractions. Many destinations offer free Wi-Fi, which you can use to check emails, browse the web, and use apps.
b. Local SIM Cards: If you have an unlocked phone, buying a local SIM card is an economical option. This allows you to enjoy local rates for data and calls, avoiding international roaming fees.
c. International Data Plans: Check with your cell phone carrier for international data plans. They often offer temporary packages that allow you to use your existing plan's data, texts, and calls abroad for a fixed fee.
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3. Common Apps to Use on Cruise Ships and Onshore:
a. Messaging Apps: Utilize messaging apps like WhatsApp, Facebook Messenger, or Telegram to stay in touch with family and friends through Wi-Fi.
b. VoIP Services: Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) apps such as Skype, Google Voice, or FaceTime (iPhone users) enable voice and video calls over the internet, reducing the need for traditional cellular calls.
c. Maps and Navigation Apps: Download offline maps on Google Maps or Maps.me to navigate onshore without using data.
4. Cell Phone Carrier's Wi-Fi Calling:
Many cell phone carriers offer Wi-Fi calling, which allows you to make calls and send texts over Wi-Fi networks. Before your trip, ensure your phone is compatible, and set up Wi-Fi calling to use when you have access to Wi-Fi networks.
Making Wi-Fi calls can be a great way to stay connected without incurring roaming charges or using your cellular minutes. Here's how to make Wi-Fi calls with common mobile carriers:
- Verizon:
Verizon offers Wi-Fi Calling for both Android and iOS devices. To enable Wi-Fi Calling on your Verizon phone:
Android: Go to "Settings" > "Network & internet" > "Mobile network" > "Advanced" > "Wi-Fi Calling." Toggle the switch to enable it.
iOS: Go to "Settings" > "Cellular" > "Wi-Fi Calling." Toggle the switch to enable it.
Once enabled, your phone will automatically use Wi-Fi for calls whenever a Wi-Fi network is available, even if you have a weak cellular signal.
- AT&T:
Wi-Fi Calling is also available for AT&T customers with compatible devices. To set up Wi-Fi Calling:
Android: Go to "Settings" > "Network & internet" > "Mobile network" > "Advanced Calling" > "Wi-Fi Calling." Toggle the switch to enable it.
iOS: Go to "Settings" > "Phone" > "Wi-Fi Calling." Toggle the switch to enable it.
- T-Mobile:
T-Mobile supports Wi-Fi Calling for most devices. To enable it:
Android: Go to "Settings" > "Network & internet" > "Mobile network" > "Advanced" > "Wi-Fi Calling." Toggle the switch to enable it.
iOS: Go to "Settings" > "Cellular" > "Wi-Fi Calling." Toggle the switch to enable it.
T-Mobile also offers an app called "T-Mobile Wi-Fi Calling" that allows Wi-Fi calling on devices without built-in Wi-Fi calling capability.
- Sprint:
Sprint, now part of T-Mobile, also supports Wi-Fi Calling. The steps to enable Wi-Fi Calling on Sprint devices are similar:
Android: Go to "Settings" > "Network & internet" > "Mobile network" > "Advanced Calling" > "Wi-Fi Calling." Toggle the switch to enable it.
iOS: Go to "Settings" > "Cellular" > "Wi-Fi Calling." Toggle the switch to enable it.
For some devices, you may need to download the "Sprint Wi-Fi Calling" app from the app store.
- Google Fi:
Google Fi, a mobile virtual network operator (MVNO), natively supports Wi-Fi Calling on compatible devices. To enable Wi-Fi Calling:
Android: Go to "Settings" > "Network & internet" > "Mobile network" > "Advanced Calling" > "Wi-Fi Calling." Toggle the switch to enable it.
iOS: Go to "Settings" > "Cellular" > "Wi-Fi Calling." Toggle the switch to enable it.
Google Fi also seamlessly switches between Wi-Fi, T-Mobile, Sprint, and US Cellular networks for calls and data to provide the best coverage.
Remember that Wi-Fi Calling is dependent on having a stable and reliable Wi-Fi connection. It allows you to make and receive calls using your phone number over the internet, making it a cost-effective and convenient option for staying connected on a cruise or while traveling abroad.
5. Using Your Cell Phone Onshore with an International Calling Plan or New SIM Card:
a. International Calling Plans: If your carrier provides international calling plans, inquire about the rates for calls, texts, and data in your destination country. Make sure to activate the plan before leaving.
b. Using a New SIM Card: If you opt for a local SIM card, power off your phone, insert the new SIM card, and restart your device. Your phone will now use the local carrier's network.
Conclusion:
By following these tips, you can navigate your cruise without the fear of exorbitant roaming charges. Embrace the adventure and explore new destinations, all while staying connected with loved ones back home using Wi-Fi and affordable communication apps. Whether you're sailing the high seas or venturing onshore internationally, these strategies will keep you connected without breaking the bank. Bon voyage!
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