What should I know about using my phone while traveling in the U.S.?

Cell phones and domestic use

While Traveling Around the U.S., except in the most mountainous and sparsely populated areas of the U.S., your cell phone should work perfectly. If you’re traveling in the mountains, you should understand that cell phone signals enjoy moving in a straight line, not bouncing around off hills.

Sparsely populated areas may cause the same result – no service – for a different reason. Many wireless carriers shy away from constructing communication towers in areas that don’t have enough users to support their networks.

Be aware of long distance calling issues when traveling in the U.S. Remember, your phone number has an area code and calls made outside of that code normally incur long distance charges. Some people forget that if they are from Dallas, but find themselves in San Diego calling a local number, this call is still long distance since their cell phone number is a Dallas exchange.

If you travel frequently, you should consider cell phone deals that include free domestic long distance calls. You’ll never have to worry about a disturbing surprise on your cell phone bill after a trip.

Roaming charges is another issue that you should address. While traveling, should you need to access a roaming network, you may be subject for some unpleasantly large charges for the privilege of using these "foreign" communication towers. Once again, wireless carriers often offer plans that include free roaming service.

Learn whether this includes calls placed through their own towers, but outside of your “home” service area or if it also includes calls placed through totally different carriers, as well.