SEVEN TIPS TO STAY CONNECTED WHILE TRAVELING ABROAD

In today’s non-stop society, staying connected is always important, even when you’re on vacation. Travelers to some of the more remote areas of the world may struggle with finding technology allowing them to communicate with the outside, but there are a few gadgets and tricks that can help.

Let’s face it. Not being in contact simply isn’t an option. Whether it’s staying on top of projects at work, scheduling doctor’s appointments for your parents or older relatives, or managing your money, being able to connect back home is important when you’re traveling overseas. Try the following devices and methods to communicate with friends and loved ones back in the United States:

• Step down converters – One of the most important things you can do when traveling abroad is ensuring that you can charge your phone and other electronic devices. Commercial electricity developed differently in many parts of the world than it did in the U.S. As a result, electrical outlets in many countries have a different physical set-up and also operate at a different voltage than American outlets. To charge your device in many countries, you’ll need a device to convert 220 volt current to 110 volt current. Otherwise, you will likely fry your devices when you attempt to charge them.
• Make calls using Project Fi – Google’s Project Fi allows users to send and make calls via Wi-Fi. The plan is relatively inexpensive and, while it has some limitations, it can come in quite handy abroad. Users can employ Project Fi to make calls in about 120 countries.
• Purchase a GSM phone – Global System for Mobiles is one of the two major cell phone systems used throughout the world. The other one, Code Division Multiple Access, is widely used in the United States, whereas GSM phones are very popular throughout the rest of the world. GSM phones are a little more adaptable than CDMA phones and may be easier to use overseas.
• Buy an international calling plan – If you take your regular cell phone with you when traveling abroad, you may be hit with higher charges for using it in another country. Before traveling, consider purchasing a calling plan that won’t charge exorbitant rates for allowing you to use your phone abroad.
• Purchase a local phone – Buying a temporary cell phone for use in the country where you are visiting will often help you save money on communications costs and ensure you have access to cell service. Temporary phones can be found for reasonable prices in most nations that you will visit, and inquiring ahead of time will help ensure you know whether they’re available and how much they cost.
• KnowRoaming stickers – KnowRoaming distributes stickers smartphone owners can place on their SIM card that will allow them to connect to local networks in 200 countries. The sticker will only activate when you are traveling abroad and will not affect your phone while you’re in the U.S. Your phone will need to be unlocked if you intend to use KnowRoaming.
• Make use of Skype – Skype is free, and you can use it from just about any computer with a camera and an Internet connection. If you’re trying to stretch your travel budget and only need sporadic communication with home, just using Skype from your hotel room or a café may be the right choice for you.

110220Volts sells adapters, converters, and transformers that help travelers stay connected by keeping their devices charged while overseas. 110220Volts offers a wide selection of electronics, including region-free DVD players and much more. For help or a consultation, call 1-800-827-9978.