When you head out on your summer vacation, you'll want to be careful where you use your cell phone. It could cost you in the end.
According to the Better Business Bureau (BBB), many cell phone users don't realize their data plan is constantly in use when they travel to Canada or abroad, even when they think their phone is idle.
In the last year, the BBB has received hundreds of complaints from people hung up on complaints with the cell phone industry. In fact, the BBB says it's received more than 27,000 complaints nationwide, many from customers who were unaware their data was still in use as they traveled outside their coverage area. One customer was charged more than $1,200 when his cell phone automatically received daily emails during a one week trip to Jamaica.
"Folks crossing the border to Canada, heading to Niagara Falls and other vacationers often rack up more expenses than they planned when traveling," said David Polino, Better Business Bureau President. "Rates can change the minute you travel outside your own coverage area, particularly if you've gone abroad. Even though your phone works exactly the same, the charges can be very different."
The BBB wants cell phone customers to keep a close eye on roaming. That's when your phone is searching for a visiting network provider to service your request and you'll be subject to those local fees, which can really add up. It's important for you to be proactive when planning your trip. Make sure to contact your cell phone provider for specific details about your individual data and roaming plan before you leave town.
Here are some other tips from the BBB:
- Turn your phone off. If you don't need your phone while traveling, turn it off. Cell phone data changes can occur if your phone is on, but in your drawer. If you're going to a far away location, you might opt to rent or buy an international cell phone. Many rental plans offer services that work in several countries and may provide free incoming calls.
- Contact your cell phone provider. Ask about changes in fees if you travel out of your current coverage area - for calls and internet use. For the occasional traveler who doesn't frequently talk on the phone, it may be worth looking into an international add-on plan, even for a short time. Your cell phone carrier can provide specific tips that cater to the roaming needs of your individual cell phone and data plan.
- Consider a Data Block. When you travel, you can forget your phone is operating differently. Placing a data block on your cell will disable the data transfer capability, saving you from fees for an unintentional internet download while you're away. You can use your calling capability and enable data transfers when you return.
- Invest in a prepaid SIM card. For frequent, chatty travelers or long-term travelers, investing in a prepaid SIM card may be the best option. With access to a local phone number, you'll be able to make phone calls at the country's local rate.
