TRAVEL PREPARATION
Using Your Cell Phone Internationally
When you travel internationally, unlocking your phone allows you to access local SIM cards from the country where you’re traveling.
Unlocking your phone
When you travel internationally, unlocking your phone allows you to access local SIM cards from the country where you’re traveling.
Using a local mobile network provides several benefits:
Cost: A local SIM card typically offers lower data, calling, and texting rates compared to international roaming charges. This will save you money on your phone bill while abroad.
Network quality: A local SIM card often provides better network quality and coverage in the country you’re in resulting in faster data speeds and more reliable connections.
Access to local services: If you use your international roaming plan, you may have limited or no access to some local services and apps. Using a local SIM card will make it easier to navigate, communicate, and obtain information.
Flexibility: You’ll have the option of switching between different carriers and plans while traveling giving you the flexibility to choose the carrier and plan that best suit your needs and budget.Compatibility: Some countries use different network technologies and frequencies. Unlocking your phone will make it compatible with different network configurations since an unlocked phone can be used with a variety of SIM cards.
How to unlock your phone
Check to be sure your phone is eligible to be unlocked:
- Your phone must be fully paid off or out of contract.
- Your account with the carrier must be in good standing with no outstanding bills.
- Your phone must not be reported as stolen or lost.
- There may be a waiting period (e.g., 60-90 days) after activation before you can request an unlock.
Before you contact your carrier:
- Gather important information about your phone and account.
- In addition to your account information, you’ll need your phone’s International Mobile Equipment Identity (IMEI) number.
- To find your IMEI number, dial *#06# on your phone or check your phone’s settings.
Contact your carrier:
- Use their website, call them, or go in person to their store.
- Tell the representative you’d like to unlock your phone for international travel.
- Provide your account information, IMEI number, and any other requested information.
Unlock your phone:
- Your carrier will guide you through the unlock process or provide you with instructions on how to do so. This process varies from carrier to carrier. Know that there may be fees involved or specific requirements.
- Depending on your carrier and phone model, you may receive an unlock code to enter or you may use a software method to unlock your phone.
- Follow the instructions you’re given.
- Once your phone is unlocked, your phone should display a message to confirm the unlock status.
Now that your phone is unlocked, test your phone to be sure it’s working properly. Use a local SIM card from the country you’ll be visiting. Check that you can make calls, send texts, and access data with the new SIM card.
If you plan to use your original SIM card when you return home, store it in a safe place while you’re away.
Remember, not all phones are eligible for unlocking and the process of unlocking may vary depending on your carrier. Be sure to check with your carrier well in advance of your travels so you’ll have plenty of time to unlock and test your phone before you leave. Enjoy your trip!
How to get an International SIM card
Although it can be challenging to find SIM cards from other countries, you might try these options:
- International airports or travel hubs – contact airport; usually in international terminal
- Online retailers – order online; have delivered to your U.S. address or held at destination airport
- Local stores – such as electronics, international grocery, and mobile phone
- Global carriers – order online; usually preloaded with some credit or data for use in multiple countries
- Roaming partnerships – your carrier may have partnerships with carriers in other countries
- Local carrier stores abroad – from friends and family in another country
