Make cheap calls when overseas
Holidaying abroad provides the opportunity to unwind, see the world, and take a break from the grind of day-to-day life. But unfortunately, the world doesn’t stop while you’re away, and at times, calls home might still be the order of the day.
Thankfully, the days of excessive phone bills are behind us, as there are many ways around the international dialling tone. Here are our top tips on making saving on overseas calls.
1. Wi-Fi calling
The best way to dodge premium international rates is to make calls with your smartphone over the internet. Using apps like WhatsApp, Facebook Messenger or Viber, are just a few options. Get connected to your hotel’s Wi-Fi network, and providing the person you’re calling is also attached to a reliable Wi-Fi network, you’ll be able to enjoy a premium, free chat.
2. Video chat
In a similar tact to the above, you can use apps like Skype, Google’s Duo, or Apple’s FaceTime to catch up face-to-face with video calls. You’ll need a smartphone with a front-facing camera, but almost every handset comes with a lens above the screen these days.
3. Check with your network
New EU roaming legislation means that UK mobile networks have now abolished roaming charges for customers in EU countries. For example, Carphone Warehouse’s MVNO network, iD, offers you the option to enjoy free roaming in 50 destinations around the world. Whenever you use data, minutes or texts, they come out of your allowance as they would at home*. Find out more here.
4. International packages
If your network doesn’t support coverage in the country you’re visiting, it’s definitely worth contacting them before you go, to find out if they offer an overseas bundle. Often there will be an add-on you can activate, that gives you extra data or minutes to make sure you don’t get stung with a surprise bill when you get home.
Got anything to add, or a question? Drop us a comment below and we’ll get back to you.