Texting Abroad: Get Messages Without Roaming Fees

Staying connected with friends, family, and colleagues while travelling abroad is important. However, most cell phone plans don't cover texting outside of your home country, and when it is available, it can be expensive. Luckily, there are ways to receive texts for free when travelling.

If you have a WiFi connection, you can use messaging apps such as WhatsApp, Facebook Messenger, or Google Hangouts to send and receive messages for free. Alternatively, if you have an iPhone, you can use iMessage over WiFi or a cellular network.

If you don't have access to WiFi, you can use a prepaid package from your mobile carrier, or an international texting app such as MyLine, which doesn't require an internet connection.

Use Wi-Fi to text for free

When travelling abroad, texting can be a costly affair. However, with Wi-Fi, you can text for free. Here's how to use Wi-Fi to text without incurring charges:

Use Wi-Fi Messaging Apps

When connected to Wi-Fi, you can use messaging apps to communicate without incurring data charges. There are several free apps available for both iOS and Android devices that allow you to send and receive text messages over a Wi-Fi connection. These include:

• IMessage (iOS): iMessage is a built-in messaging service for iPhone and iDevice users. It allows you to send and receive messages for free when connected to Wi-Fi. To ensure you're using iMessage, make sure your messages appear in blue bubbles. If they appear in green, it means you're using SMS and will be charged.
• Facebook Messenger (iOS, Android): Facebook Messenger is a widely used messaging app that allows you to send text, photos, videos, and audio recordings to your Facebook contacts. It's free to use and only requires a Wi-Fi connection.
• WhatsApp (iOS, Android): WhatsApp is a messaging app that works across iPhone and Android devices. It allows you to send messages, make calls, and share media over a Wi-Fi or data connection. It's a popular option for travellers as it only requires a one-time purchase of $0.99.

Enable Wi-Fi Calling

To ensure you're using Wi-Fi for messaging and avoiding cellular charges, you can enable "Wi-Fi Calling" on your device. Here's how to do it:

For iPhone:

• Go to "Settings".
• Tap on "Cellular".
• Toggle on "Wi-Fi Calling on This iPhone".
• Click "Enable Wi-Fi Calling".
• Make sure your phone is connected to a Wi-Fi network.

For Android:

• Go to "Settings".
• Tap on "Networks & Internet".
• Select "Mobile Network".
• Click on "Advanced".
• Toggle on "Wi-Fi Calling".
• Ensure your device is connected to a Wi-Fi network.

Tips for Safe Wi-Fi Usage

While using public Wi-Fi, it's important to take precautions to protect your data:

• Ensure your device's operating system and browser are up to date to patch any security vulnerabilities.
• Use a VPN (Virtual Private Network) app to encrypt your internet connection and protect your data from potential hackers on the same network.
• Be cautious of free public Wi-Fi and avoid accessing sensitive information (e.g., online banking) on unsecured networks.

Download messaging apps like WhatsApp

When travelling abroad, staying connected with your loved ones is important. While you could use your traditional texting apps, sending and receiving messages can be very expensive. Therefore, it is a good idea to download messaging apps such as WhatsApp.

WhatsApp is a globally used messaging app with over 2.5 billion global users and 2 billion monthly active users. It is available for almost any smartphone and only costs $0.99. The app offers end-to-end encryption, ensuring your messages and calls are secure. It also supports voice and video calls.

To use WhatsApp for free, you need to be connected to WiFi. When you are abroad, you must have a WiFi connection to use WhatsApp without being charged. When WhatsApp is not connected to WiFi, it uses your data plan, which can be very expensive if you are travelling on your mobile plan.

Before you leave, tell your friends and family to download WhatsApp so that you can stay in contact whenever you have a WiFi connection.

Use a local SIM card

Using a local SIM card is a great way to stay connected while travelling abroad. Here are some detailed instructions and tips to help you receive text messages using a local SIM card:

Unlocking Your Phone:

Before you leave for your trip, ensure your phone is unlocked. This means it can accept SIM cards from different carriers. Contact your current carrier to request an unlock. Some carriers may have specific requirements, such as completing payments or having an account in good standing, before they unlock your phone.

Choosing a Local SIM Card:

Research and choose a local SIM card provider in the country you're travelling to. Consider your needs, such as the amount of data, call time, and texting capacity you'll require. You can often find SIM card packages at local convenience stores, supermarkets, or mobile phone shops.

Activating the Local SIM Card:

Once you've purchased a local SIM card, insert it into your phone. Follow any instructions provided by the local carrier to activate the SIM card. This may involve registering the SIM card online or providing some basic information.

Informing Contacts:

Let your friends and family know your new local number so they can reach you. If you're using an iPhone, you can also set up your email with iMessage to receive messages sent to your domestic number. Alternatively, encourage your contacts to download messaging apps that work with your new local number.

Managing Data and Roaming:

Be mindful of data usage to avoid unexpected charges. Turn off mobile data when you don't need it, and connect to Wi-Fi whenever possible. If you need to stay connected without Wi-Fi, consider pre-purchasing an international data plan or package from your local carrier.

Using a local SIM card is a cost-effective way to stay connected while travelling. By following these steps, you can ensure you're able to receive text messages and stay in touch with your loved ones during your trip.

Forward your US number to a Google Voice number

Forwarding your US number to a Google Voice number is a great way to stay connected while travelling abroad. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to set it up:

Step 1: Set Up Google Voice

To begin, you'll need to set up a Google Voice account. This service allows you to make and receive calls, as well as send and receive text messages, from any device with an internet connection. Simply download the Google Voice app or go to voice.google.com to get started.

Step 2: Link Your US Number

Once you have Google Voice set up, you can link your US number to forward calls and messages. In the Google Voice app, go to "Menu", then "Settings", and under "Account", select "Devices and Numbers". From there, you can add a new linked number by entering your US phone number. Google will then send a verification code to that number. Enter the code, and your US number will be linked!

Step 3: Verify Your Number

After linking your US number, you may need to verify it. This can be done by calling the number and providing the verification code, or by sending a text message with the code. This ensures that you are the owner of the number and helps to prevent any unauthorized forwarding.

Step 4: Forward Calls and Texts

With your US number now linked to Google Voice, you can forward calls and texts to that number. In the Google Voice app, go to "Menu", then "Settings", and under "Messages", turn on "Forward Messages to Email". You can also forward missed calls and voicemails to your Gmail account by turning on the appropriate settings.

Step 5: Manage Linked Numbers

Google Voice allows you to link up to six numbers, so if you have multiple US numbers, you can add them all. To manage your linked numbers, go to "Devices and Numbers" in the settings menu. From there, you can add, verify, or remove numbers as needed.

By following these steps, you can easily forward your US number to Google Voice and stay connected while travelling abroad. Remember to have the Google Voice app installed and set up on your device before your trip, and ensure you have a stable internet connection for making calls and sending texts.

Use your mobile carrier's international texting plan

When travelling abroad, you can use your mobile carrier's international texting plan to stay connected. Here's a detailed guide on how to do this:

Understanding International Texting Plans

Before choosing an international texting plan, it's important to understand the options available. Most major mobile carriers offer supplementary packages that can be added to your existing plan. These packages are designed to provide coverage while travelling abroad, but the specifics can vary. Some plans offer unlimited texting, while others provide a certain number of texts or charge per text. It's also important to note that international texting can be expensive, so choosing a plan that suits your needs is crucial.

Choosing the Right Carrier

When selecting a mobile carrier for international texting, consider their coverage in the specific country or countries you plan to visit. Different carriers have partnerships with international providers, which can affect your texting capabilities and rates. Some popular carriers that offer international texting plans include:

• T-Mobile
• Verizon
• AT&T
• Google Fi
• Spectrum Mobile

Evaluating Plan Options

When choosing an international texting plan, consider the following:

• Data Usage: Determine if the plan includes data roaming, as this can be important for sending and receiving texts.
• Texting Limits: Check if there are any limits on the number of texts you can send or receive, and whether there are additional charges for exceeding those limits.
• Calling Features: Some plans may include international calling, which can be useful if you also need to make or receive calls abroad.
• Duration of Travel: Consider how long you'll need the international texting plan. Some carriers offer daily, monthly, or trip-specific passes designed for shorter or longer stays.

Managing Costs

International texting plans can vary in price, so it's important to understand the costs involved. Some carriers offer flat-rate daily or monthly plans, while others charge per text or have pay-as-you-go rates. Compare the pricing of different plans to find the most cost-effective option for your needs. Additionally, consider the following to manage costs:

• Check for any additional charges, such as taxes, fees, or add-ons like insurance.
• Evaluate whether you need to purchase a new SIM card or eSIM to use the service in your destination country.
• Review the terms and conditions to ensure you understand any restrictions on usage, such as limitations on extended international use.

Staying Connected

Once you've selected and signed up for an international texting plan, there are a few things to keep in mind to ensure a smooth experience:

• Notify your carrier: Inform your carrier of your travel plans, especially if you're using a trip-specific pass. This helps ensure that your service activates when you need it.
• Monitor your usage: Keep track of your text and data usage, especially if you have limits or additional charges for exceeding certain thresholds.
• Utilize Wi-Fi: When possible, connect to Wi-Fi networks to reduce data usage and take advantage of apps that support text and voice communication over data connections.

Frequently asked questions