In my old job, I used to travel to Canada a fair amount. This is back in 2006 and 2007 and to be functional on the road, I needed my Blackberry (yes, I was very fond of mine) to make/receive phone calls and have an active data connection. I would typically turn my international data/voice plan on and off for the weeks that I spent up there. I remember my cell phone bill for those months exceeding $250. It was insane.
Fortunately, mobile phone carriers, plans, and equipment have come a long way since then. It is extremely helpful (even when traveling for pleasure) to have the capability to look up directions, read a review, post an Insta, or text message friends and family. And all of that can be done with limited cost. Verizon offers (not sure on the other carriers but I would bet they offer something similar) the ability to add a Global Data Plan to your phone for just $25 per month...this includes 100MB of data. Now 100MB of data isn't a lot but I used less than that during my 13 day honeymoon in Asia.
I normally turn the plan on (you can do this online in about three minutes) a few days before leaving. I backdate the (one of the options provided) feature to the start of the month so I can get the full 100MB allowance. I always make sure to keep cellular services off when traveling until I need something. When walking around if I need directions, want to send a quick text, etc...I just turn cellular services on, roaming starts, I do what I need to do, and then I flip it off. As long as you aren't sending massive attachments or streaming video, 100MB will get you pretty far. And should you need another 100MB, it will cost you just $25.
When I return home, I log on to my Verizon account and turn off the feature. Kudos to Verizon for making this process so easy and affordable!
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