Are you trying to dial international from US Verizon? Don't worry, it's easier than you might think! Whether you're calling family, friends, or business associates overseas, understanding the process and available options is crucial. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about making international calls with Verizon from the United States. We'll cover dialing codes, pricing, plans, and even some tips to save money on your calls. So, let's dive in and get you connected!

Understanding International Dialing Codes

Before you even think about dialing, understanding international dialing codes is super important. Think of it like the key to unlocking your call to another country. There are essentially three parts to the code you'll need to dial:

• Exit Code (or International Access Code): This is the code you dial from the US to indicate that you're making an international call. In the United States, the exit code is 011. So, every international number you dial from the US will start with 011. Without this, your phone company will think you're trying to make a domestic call, and it won't know to route your call internationally.
• Country Code: Each country has its own unique country code. For example, the country code for the United Kingdom is 44, for Germany it's 49, and for Australia it's 61. You'll need to know the specific country code for the country you're trying to call. A quick Google search for "country code for [country name]" will usually give you the answer in seconds. There are also websites and apps dedicated to providing lists of country codes. Make sure you double-check the country code, as dialing the wrong one could connect you to a completely different place!
• Local Number: This is the phone number of the person or business you're trying to reach in that country. It usually includes an area code (or city code) specific to that region. Keep in mind that phone number formats vary from country to country. Some countries have longer or shorter phone numbers than the US. Also, be aware that some countries might drop the leading zero from their area codes when you're calling internationally, but this isn't always the case, so it's best to confirm.

Putting it all together, to call a friend in London, UK (country code 44) with the local number 20 1234 5678, you would dial: 011 44 20 1234 5678. Make sure you dial all the digits correctly, or your call won't go through!

Verizon's International Calling Plans and Rates

Now that you know how to dial, let's talk about the cost. Dial international from US Verizon without a plan can get expensive quickly, so it's worth exploring your options. Verizon offers several international calling plans and rates, so you can choose the one that best fits your needs and budget. Here's a breakdown:

• Pay-Per-Minute Rates: Without an international plan, Verizon charges pay-per-minute rates for international calls. These rates vary widely depending on the country you're calling. Some countries might be relatively inexpensive, while others can cost several dollars per minute! You can find a list of pay-per-minute rates on Verizon's website or by calling Verizon customer service. Be warned: these rates can add up fast, especially if you're planning on making long calls regularly. If you only need to make an occasional short call, this might be acceptable, but for anything more frequent, you should consider a plan.
• International Calling Plans: Verizon offers monthly international calling plans that provide discounted rates to specific countries or regions. These plans typically include a set number of minutes you can use each month. If you exceed your allotted minutes, you'll be charged the standard pay-per-minute rate for any additional calls. Verizon sometimes offers different tiers of international plans, with varying numbers of included minutes and different rates. These plans can save you a significant amount of money if you regularly call a particular country or region. Check the details of each plan carefully to make sure it covers the countries you need and offers enough minutes for your usage. Don't forget to compare the cost of the plan to what you'd spend on pay-per-minute calls to see if it's really a good deal for you.
• TravelPass: If you're traveling outside the US and want to use your Verizon phone to make calls back home or to other countries, TravelPass is a great option. For a daily fee, TravelPass lets you use your existing talk, text, and data allowances in over 185 countries. This can be much more convenient and cost-effective than relying on local SIM cards or trying to find Wi-Fi hotspots. However, TravelPass is designed for traveling, not for making international calls from the US. So, it won't help you if you're trying to dial international from US Verizon while you're still in the States.

To find the most up-to-date information on Verizon's international calling plans and rates, it's best to visit their website or contact their customer service directly. Rates and plan details can change, so it's always a good idea to double-check before making any calls.

Alternative Options for International Calls

While Verizon offers its own international calling plans, there are also several alternative options you might want to consider, especially if you're looking to save money or make calls over the internet. These options can be particularly appealing if you need to make frequent or long-duration international calls.

• Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) Services: VoIP services like Skype, WhatsApp, Viber, and Google Voice allow you to make calls over the internet instead of using traditional phone lines. This can significantly reduce the cost of international calls, especially if you're calling another user of the same service, as calls between users are often free. Even when calling regular phone numbers, VoIP services typically offer much lower rates than traditional phone companies. The call quality can vary depending on your internet connection, but with a good Wi-Fi or data connection, it's usually quite acceptable. Most VoIP services offer apps for smartphones and computers, making it easy to make calls from anywhere with an internet connection. Keep in mind that you'll need a data plan or Wi-Fi access to use VoIP services, and excessive data usage can incur charges from your mobile carrier.
• International Calling Cards: International calling cards are prepaid cards that allow you to make international calls at discounted rates. You can purchase these cards online or at many retail stores. Each card has a specific amount of credit, and the cost per minute varies depending on the country you're calling. To use a calling card, you typically dial an access number, enter a PIN, and then dial the international number you want to call. While calling cards can be cheaper than Verizon's pay-per-minute rates, they often come with hidden fees, such as connection fees, maintenance fees, and rounding increments. Make sure you read the fine print carefully before purchasing a calling card to understand all the associated costs. Also, be aware that the call quality can sometimes be lower than with traditional phone services.
• Mobile Apps: Numerous mobile apps specialize in providing low-cost international calling. These apps often work similarly to VoIP services, using the internet to make calls. Some popular apps include Rebtel, Vonage Mobile, and MagicJack. These apps often offer competitive rates and various features, such as call recording and voicemail. However, as with VoIP services, the call quality depends on your internet connection, and you'll need a data plan or Wi-Fi access to use them. Be sure to compare the rates and features of different apps before choosing one, and read reviews to get an idea of their reliability and call quality.

Tips for Saving Money on International Calls

No one wants to break the bank when dial international from US Verizon. So, here are some practical tips to help you save money on international calls:

• Use Wi-Fi Whenever Possible: When using VoIP services or mobile apps for international calls, always connect to Wi-Fi whenever possible. This will prevent you from using your mobile data and incurring data charges. Public Wi-Fi hotspots are available in many places, such as coffee shops, libraries, and airports. However, be cautious when using public Wi-Fi, as it may not be secure. Avoid transmitting sensitive information, such as passwords or credit card numbers, over public Wi-Fi networks. If you need to use public Wi-Fi, consider using a virtual private network (VPN) to encrypt your internet traffic and protect your privacy.
• Call During Off-Peak Hours: Some phone companies and VoIP services offer lower rates during off-peak hours, such as evenings and weekends. Check with your provider to see if they have any off-peak calling rates. This can be a simple way to save money if you have some flexibility in when you make your calls. Consider the time difference between your location and the location you're calling. What might be off-peak hours for you could be peak hours for them, and vice versa.
• Keep Calls Short: The longer you talk, the more you pay. Try to be mindful of the length of your calls and keep them as concise as possible. Before making a call, jot down a list of the key points you want to discuss so you don't ramble. If you need to have a long conversation, consider using a VoIP service with a low per-minute rate or a monthly plan that includes unlimited calling to the country you're calling.
• Explore Texting and Messaging Options: Instead of calling, consider using text messaging or messaging apps like WhatsApp or Facebook Messenger to communicate with people overseas. Text messages are often much cheaper than international calls, and messaging apps are usually free if you're connected to Wi-Fi. This can be a great way to stay in touch without spending a lot of money. However, be aware that some countries may have restrictions on text messaging, and some messaging apps may not be available in all countries.

By following these tips, you can significantly reduce the cost of your international calls and stay connected with friends, family, and colleagues around the world without breaking the bank.

Conclusion

So, there you have it! Dial international from US Verizon doesn't have to be a daunting or expensive endeavor. By understanding international dialing codes, exploring Verizon's plans and alternative options, and implementing some money-saving tips, you can easily connect with people around the globe. Remember to always check the latest rates and plan details with Verizon or your chosen service provider, and happy calling!