How to Avoid International Data charges with Verizon Wireless, T-Mobile, AT&T, and Sprint

When you travel abroad, you always have to be aware of your mobile carrier international data charges. If you don’t follow some important steps, then you may find a hefty bill after returning home. If you use Verizon Wireless, AT&T, T-Mobile, or Sprint, this tutorial will help you avoid international data charges.

Tips
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Turn off Data/internet Connection:
While you are roaming, turn off the data connection on your device. Smartphones can use data in the background, when you don't even know it.
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To do that, go to settings of your device then go to the cellular or data connection settings. The system will vary depending on your device.

Turn of Data Roaming:
Usually, this setting remains off by default. Before roaming, double check this setting to ake sure it's off
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To turn this off, go to cellular/data connection settings on your device and turn this setting off.

Use Wi-Fi instead:
If you turn off your data, how to you access the Internet? The answer is simple. You use Wi-Fi instead of a cellular data connection.
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To do this, just find any public Wi-Fi hotspot or your own private Wi-Fi hotspot. Turn on your phone's Wi-Fi. Then your phone will search for Wi-Fi networks.
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For calls, SMS, IM:
While roaming, don't make calls from your SIM card. It will cost you a hefty fee. There are solutions to make voice calls, send texts, and instant message over Wi-Fi with third party apps like ‘Skype’, ‘WhatsApp’, and ‘Tango.'

Take an international roaming bundle:
The major carriers offers international roaming bundles. They aren't cheap, but it's an option to avoid the fees you would accrue otherwise.. You can find them on your carrier's website. From there, choose the perfect bundle for you. Check your carrier's website for more information on international plans.

Verizon Wireless: http://www.verizonwireless.com/wcms/global/plans-and-pricing.html
AT&T: http://www.att.com/shop/wireless/international.html#fbid=bhYB4FSVjQ5
Sprint: http://shop.sprint.com/mysprint/services_solutions/details.jsp?detId=international_travel_sprint&catId=service_international&catName=International%20Services&detName=Traveling%20internationally%20with%20a%20Sprint%20device
T-Mobile: http://www.t-mobile.com/simple-choice-international-plans.html

Reset the data tracker:
Before going abroad. you should reset the data tracker on your phone. You will be able to have an idea of how much data you're using, and how much that will ultimately cost you.