kb and kB) data charges. Even simple voice calls can run upward of $5 a minute when you head out of your home networks

While the FCC is thinking about requiring carriers to notify you when you're about to incur the wrath of the fee-happy wireless gods, for the time being you're on your own. So make sure you know what you're getting into before you check on your Farmville crops from Timbuktu.

Here's our guide to avoiding the high cost of international roaming charges and a few tips for avoiding the charges if you aren't so lucky.

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Avoid roaming charges

Really, the only way to avoid the insane prices your current carrier wants to charge is to get rid of the carrier.

When you're headed abroad by all means, bring your phone, just lose the SIM card before you leave. When you get to your destination, pick up a local SIM card for a fraction of the price you'd pay in roaming charges.

Of course, in order to swap SIM cards, you're going to need a phone that's unlocked. Unless you bought your phone off eBay or specifically asked for it to be unlocked, chances are your phone isn't unlocked.

There are a variety of ways to unlock your phone, from iPhone jailbreaking tools to simply asking your carrier to do it for you (We've had good luck with both AT&T and T-Mobile unlocking older phones for a small fee).

You'll also want to ensure that your phone is at least a tri-band phone, which means it will work on just about any network. Quad-band is even better, though less common.

Also, if your phone supports it, remember that Skype Mobile can grab a wi-fi signal and make calls for free. The company makes apps for some BlackBerry and Android phones.

Getting rid of roaming charges

So, you didn't realize just how expensive overseas calling would be and now you're looking at a bill that dwarfs your mortgage payment. There are still some things you can do to perhaps get the charges lowered.

The first step is to call your wireless provider and talk to them. Explain the situation to the operator and remember to be firm, but friendly -- like your grandmother said, honey attracts more flies than vinegar.

If that doesn't get you anywhere the next step is the retention department -- the folks that are supposed to convince you not to cancel your service.

To reach the retention department your best bet is call up your wireless provider and tell them you'd like to cancel your account. That will usually get you to the retention department which, typically, has more leeway in the deals and discounts it can offer you.

It's unlikely that you'll get off completely, but the internet abounds with stories of wireless companies that have cut expensive roaming charges in half.

Specific things to ask for

• Most companies will allow you to retroactively purchase an international plan. You'll pay a little out of pocket, but the roaming charges will be reduced or erased.

• Do you work for the government? The post office? A university? You may be entitled to a discounted plan or discounts on international fees.

This page was last modified 21:00, 12 November 2010 by howto_admin.

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