Reduce Mobile Roaming Costs when Abroad
Save Money on International Phone Calls on a Family Holiday
Mar 21, 2009
Holiday makers love the convenience and freedom of taking their mobile phone on family holidays. However, high mobile roaming costs are not only incurred for making calls, mobile networks also charge consumers up to £1 per minute for receiving them. Making a few simple adjustments in relation to international phone calls can help save money and reduce mobile phone bills for all consumers.
Reduce Mobile Roaming Costs by Asking Friends to Avoid Calling
Mobile networks charge the recipient of calls up to £1 per minute. Whilst many consumers understand that they are charged for making international phone calls, the majority don't realise that their friend enjoying a family holiday will also be charged. Mobile roaming is expensive, so ask friends to only call the mobile if an emergency situation arises.
Make an International Phone Call to the Hotel
Instead of a direct call to the mobile, ask friends and family to make an international phone call directly to the hotel room. There are a number of discount packages and phone cards available. Don't make international phone calls from the hotel to friends and family as these are likely to be as high, if not higher, than mobile roaming costs.
Mobile Roaming and Receiving Free Text Messages
Mobile roaming allows recipients on a family holiday to receive free text messages, but there remains a charge for sending them. The mobile tariff for sending text messages from abroad should be checked with the respective mobile network before going abroad, in order to prevent any nasty surprises.
How T Mobile Customers Can Save Money
MoneySavingExpert.com points out that T Mobile customers are charged 40p for sending a standard text message and only 20p for sending a picture message (MMS) in region 2 countries. An MMS can be used in the same way as a regular text message, it just allows mobile network customers to save money.
International SIM Cards for Family Holidays
It is possible to save money on international phone cards by getting a new SIM card. Companies, such as oneroam.co.uk, charge those enjoying a family holiday in the US a one-off fee of £15 for joining and calls can then be made and received for just 19p per minute. It is also possible for other international travellers to reduce mobile roaming costs by up to 80% by getting a SIM from uk2abroad.com.
The most effective way to avoid roaming costs when on a family holiday is by leaving the mobile phone at home. Mobile networks charge high fees for all international calls, even for those who are just the recipient. Ask friends not to call the mobile and send free text messages and call the hotel instead.
Those that found this article useful may be interested in finding out how to buy cheap holiday insurance and reduce mobile phone bills. Consumers struggling with holiday debt are likely to find practical solutions to credit card debt of assistance.
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