Renting cell phones worldwide can make things easier when traveling abroad or keeping in touch with international clients or employees. Rates on international mobile phone rentals are generally cheaper than hotel phone calls, pay phones or calling cards. Plus, you have all the convenience and flexibility of a cell phone with an international mobile phone rental.

But you need to be cautious of additional fees the companies may tack on to your plan without your knowledge. Here are a few things to consider before purchasing a global cell phone rental:

1. Does your business need short-term or long-term agreements? Or do you want to avoid contracts altogether?
2. Do your business trips require PDA support or data cards? You may save by combining these services with your international mobile phone rentals.
3. Does your business require enough travel to purchase one phone number with your phone rental for international calls?
   

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Determine if buying or renting mobile phones worldwide is best for your business

Do you need a phone that saves your phonebook? Do you need to keep the same business global cell phone number? These are a few of the things to consider when you decide if your business should buy or rent.

I recommend: Cellhire lists a comparison of buying and renting cell phones worldwide. Cellular Abroad gives tips on whether to rent or buy a cell phone for international travel. Mobal lists some reasons why international cell phone rental may not be a good option. Also, GSM World lets you check cell phone coverage maps and roaming information.

Get rates on phone rental for international calls by country

Browse several websites to compare rates for renting mobile phones worldwide. Some providers may offer a flat rate for popular business destinations.

I recommend: TravelCell gives you rate quotes by locations you need to visit. Anywhere Phone Rental offers a quick list of rates by country. TravelComm offers the option of a local in-country phone number, depending on your destination.

Chose a provider with a wide variety of international cell phone rentals

Make sure you find a provider that offers plenty of choices to fit your business trip needs. For remote travel destinations, you may need a satellite phone option.

I recommend: AllCell Rentals offers both international cell phones and satellite phones. RentCell offers three international cell phones, plus the option to rent GPS units, 2-way radios and more. Telestial lists a good variety of phones from lowest to highest price.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  When renting mobile phones worldwide, ask for free incoming calls.
• •  Ask about fees for phone delivery and pickup.
• •  Make sure to ask about the minimum rental times or minimum call usage.
• •  Find out what accessories come with your global cellular phone rental, like phone chargers or adapters.