Carrying cell phones while traveling abroad has become very popular and common among businessmen and professionals as it frees them from the tide of expensive phone service from their hotel or pay phones. Unfortunately, domestic phones made in the US do not work in most countries abroad, including Europe and Asia. An international cell phone is the ideal companion for many business travelers, as they also benefit from additional data communication features such as email or even data and file transfers built into newer mobile phones.

It is surprising to learn that the United States is behind other countries when it comes to standardizing cellular communications. While most countries around the world have embraced GSM wireless technology, the US has resisted this change and has instead developed proprietary CDMA and TDMA protocols. If you plan to study abroad or stay outside of North America for an extended period and want to have convenient cell phones, you should switch to unlocked GSM phones that operate at 900mhz.

The frequent traveler will find it cheaper and more convenient to buy an international mobile phone than to rent one. However, a person who travels infrequently would be better off renting an international cell phone when he makes his occasional trips abroad.

To ensure that all your needs and requirements are met, try to find out as much information as possible about various models of GSM phones that you are considering renting or buying. The most important feature to look out for in the phone is its network coverage, but of course this can vary greatly depending on the country. This is because some cell phones will work in one part of the world and not another. So when you buy or rent your cell phone, make sure it will work in the country you’re visiting.

Depending on your trip, you will need different services and applications during your international trip. Some travelers will need a navigation map, some will need Internet access and email, while others will need video recording or voicemail services. People going on international vacations may also need the cell phone to listen to their favorite music and capture great views.

So, based on your requirements, check the features of the phone before buying or renting it. This is because some of these features may not be supported by your network provider when you are abroad. You should never forget or ignore to find out about the rate, rates, plan and charges, whether you are renting or buying.

Different providers have different rate plans, fees and charges depending on the services you require. Also, international cell phones generally charge higher or additional fees compared to local cell phone services. And last but not least, don’t forget to read the terms and conditions of the service.

This is a very important point that is often overlooked by international travelers, only to face complications and inconvenience at a later period. Read the terms and conditions of the phone, and if you don’t have time to do so, have a customer service representative do it for you.

Anything that is not clear to you, such as contract underwriting, warranty, hotline numbers, and other fees and charges for international subscriptions, should be verified. With this information, you can save yourself a lot of headaches and problems in the future. So if you are a frequent traveler, the international cell phone is a useful service and device for you as it not only increases your productivity at work, it also provides you with entertainment through music, videos and games during those long hours of travel.