International Wireless Phones

Having a wireless phone for your overseas trip is not only a convenience but an essential safety resource. International Wireless Phones mainly use GSM technology. The little GSM chip inside can be changed according to the country you're in, and acts as a phone card. You can buy chips with different amounts of money on them, and make calls with the same wireless phone you use in the States.

Most phones called "global" or "international" are tri-band, which means they can work on three bandwidth frequencies, covering most of the world's GSM networks. For information on international networks and worldwide GSM operators in 203 countries, visit the GSM Association website. or check out the cool slide show on international Wireless Phones at About.com.

Wireless Phone Plans

Picking the service plan for you: Determine when, where and who will be using your cell phone most to select a plan that's just right for you. Pre-paid Plans are a good option if don't like long-term contracts and want to limit your phone expenses. The increasingly popular Family Plan (local, regional, or national in scope) gives parents peace-of-mind and ready access to on-the-go kids. Shared Plans function like Family Plans, giving you the freedom to define the group's members. No Contract Plans offer simplicity and convenience linked to your credit card. However, most wireless phone plans require you to sign a one- or two-year contract and charge a steep penalty if you cancel before the contract expires.