Mobile Phone Use

[dgamble]

I plan to bring my iPhone but I don't want to pay an arm and a leg for roaming. I looked briefly at travel sim cards but don't know if they are the best bet. Let me know what you have done!

Thanks

[Eagle]

dgamble,

It's great that you're checking into this now, as this will hopefully help you avoid a HUGE roaming bill. To begin with, you wouldn't be able to use "travel SIM cards" unless your phone was unlocked.

The "safest" method for travel with in iPhone is to disable the data roaming portion, and just use Wi-Fi (where available). However, that prevents using some features (GPS?) or other applications that use the cellular network while out touring. You didn't indicate how much you're planning to use the voice or text messaging functions?

Which cell network are you with? If you're with Rogers, they do offer some voice, text and data "travel plans" which will reduce the roaming costs somewhat. You might want to contact them to get some information on whether the plans will be of use to you. I tend to use text most often while travelling, with occasional voice calls (but I'm not using an iPhone so don't have to worry about data roaming).

I've heard from other iPhone users that the data section can mysteriously turn itself back "on" at times, so it's a good idea to check that from time-to-time. The usage meter will provide some indication whether you're using any data.

Happy travels!

[thegreennomad]

Gamble,
If you are from the states, I called AT&T and they have 2 options for travelers. 1st off their is the world traveler plan, which makes calls go from $1.29 /min to $.99 / min, saving you 30 cents per minute. They also have 50 txt messages for $10.00 The calling plan is nice if you are going to spend alot of time on the phone, but like Eagle said, I do most of my communication through text and email while abroad.

My question about roaming is, do I use wifi or turn it off? also how can I turn roaming off on my Iphone?

Cheers!
-Connor

[Eagle]

Connor,

If you're using an iPhone, leaving the Wi-Fi on would be a good idea as that will allow you to check the web or E-mail if there's Wi-Fi available. However, it's important to turn the data portion off while you're travelling, so that you don't incur expensive data roaming charges. If you're with AT&T, they should be able to provide instructions on disabling the data portion. I believe that's accessed via the "Settings" menu.

I'd suggest checking the data menu on the phone periodically (and perhaps the usage meter also) while you're travelling, as I've heard from a few people that this can mysteriously turn itself back "on".

One other point to mention. If you're planning to use your iPhone during the flight (to play games or listen to music), it would be a good idea to place it in "Airplane Mode". This will disable all transmit functions, including Wi-Fi. You can turn the Wi-Fi back "on" after you land.

Cheers!