When you need to make an international call, the last thing you want is to be hit with extra charges. These hidden fees can sneak up on you and your phone bill may seem unpleasant. Understanding how to keep costs down can help you avoid these surprises. Plus, knowing the best methods for calling internationally will allow you to find a solution that works for your budget. Whether you're calling for school, work, or just to chat with a friend overseas, having a clear plan will help you avoid unnecessary expenses. It’s vital to know your options and choose the most affordable way to make calls.
Before we get into the details on how to save money on international calls, it’s helpful to understand why they are expensive. Traditionally international calling rates are charged by minutes, with rates that vary depending on where you’re calling. In some cases, calling a mobile phone abroad can be even more expensive than calling a landline.
On top of the per-minute rate, some providers may add extra charges for things like connection fees or service surcharges. These extra costs can be hard to spot, especially if your phone bill is confusing. Understanding how these charges work is key to knowing how to avoid them and keep your international calls affordable. For example, Lyca Mobile offers international calling plans with unlimited international talk & text to 100 countries, so you won’t have to worry about unexpected fees when calling overseas.
Making an international call isn’t complicated, but it’s important to follow the right steps to avoid hidden charges. Here's a simple guide:
1. Dial the International Access Code (Exit Code)
In the USA, you need to start by dialing 011. This tells the phone system that you're calling outside of the USA.
2. Dial the Country Code
After the exit code, enter the country code of the country you're calling. For example, 44 is the country code for the UK, while 1 is for Canada.
3. Dial the Area Code
Some countries, like the USA, have area codes for different regions. Be sure to dial the area code if needed.
4. Dial the Local Number
Finally, dial the local number of the person you’re trying to reach.
It’s important to double-check the number you’re dialing to make sure it’s correct. An error could result in a failed connection, or worse, a call to the wrong number.
Now that you know the basics, let’s talk about the best methods for making international calls that won’t come with hidden charges. Here are some great options:
Apps like Skype, WhatsApp, and Zoom are perfect for making international calls. These services use the internet, not your mobile network, so calls are often much cheaper—sometimes even free! As long as both you and the person you’re calling have a reliable internet connection, you can avoid traditional phone charges altogether. Plus, you’ll know exactly what you're paying (or not paying) upfront.
If you prefer using your regular phone, prepaid international calling cards can be a great choice. These cards let you pay in advance for a set amount of minutes, so you’ll know exactly how much you’re spending. It’s a simple and affordable option, with no surprise charges. For a more budget-friendly alternative, consider Lyca Mobile international plans, which offer transparent pricing and great rates for calling abroad.
Apps like Google Voice and Viber allow you to make cheap international calls over the internet. They let you monitor the cost in real-time, so there are no surprises when you hang up. Many of these apps offer competitive rates compared to traditional phone companies and can even offer free calls if both parties are using the same app.
If you’re someone who makes international calls regularly, signing up for an unlimited international calling plan might be a good idea. Many phone carriers offer these plans for a fixed monthly fee, so you won’t have to worry about paying extra for every call. Just check with your carrier to see if they offer a plan that fits your needs and budget. Lyca Mobile, for example, offers affordable, unlimited international calling plans that include coverage for several countries, making it easier to call anywhere you need without worrying about extra charges.
Most smartphones support Wi-Fi calling, which lets you make calls over a Wi-Fi connection instead of using cellular data or minutes. If you have access to fast Wi-Fi, this can help you save a lot of money on international calls, especially if you're calling from places where cell service is expensive. Check with your carrier to see if Wi-Fi calling is an option for you and which countries it works for.
Making international calls from the USA doesn’t have to be a headache, and it doesn’t have to come with hidden fees. With the right knowledge and a few smart choices, you can keep your costs down while staying connected with people around the world. Whether you choose a VoIP service, an international calling card, or a mobile app, knowing your options will help you make informed decisions that fit your budget. By taking control of how you make international calls, you can enjoy clear, affordable communication—without the stress of surprise charges on your phone bill. And with affordable options like Lyca Mobile international plans, you can make calls to a variety of countries without worrying about hidden costs.