Can I use my cell phone in Belize?

 Can I use my cell phone in Belize?

When you imagine a trip to Belize, what do you imagine? Blue skies, ocean waves, and lots of relaxation probably come to mind. But while you may visit Belize to get away from it all, you may not want to be cut off from family, friends, or work for the duration of your trip.

Fortunately, you don't have to be without a cell phone these days, as most people can easily use their phones abroad.

Here's a step-by-step guide to using a US cell when visiting Belize.

1. Make sure your mobile phone is unlocked

The first step is simple: make sure your mobile phone is unlocked. This means that it is not tied to one specific service provider. If you check and your phone is locked with your provider, you can ask them to unlock your phone, which should be an easy – and free – service. More information can be found on the provider's website.

2. Inform your mobile operator that you are traveling to Belize

You will need to let your mobile carrier know that you are leaving the US and visiting Belize. They enable roaming, which means that from the moment you turn on your phone, you will have access to all the usual services through the Belize network.

3. Make sure voice and text services are activated

When arranging roaming services in Belize, check with your provider that you will be able to use voice and text services. You may find that only the voice service is activated by default. So if both types of communication are important to you, make sure you're prepared before you leave home.

4. Check the cost of international roaming charges

Given how cheap mobile plans are at home, it's surprising how much you can be charged for roaming. Phone call charges can be several dollars per minute, which would be a nasty surprise when your next bill arrives. Make sure you check before you arrive.

5. For weighty use: Purchase a SIM card in Belize

If you will be using your phone a lot in Belize, another option is to purchase a Belize SIM card upon arrival. As long as your phone is unlocked and can work on 1900 GSM you will be able to do this and there are some great deals you can get on buying preloaded SIM cards.

6. Take an international plug adapter to charge your cell

Of course, if you run out of juice, your battery won't be of much use, so one of the most important parts of the kit you bring is an international plug adapter.

Belize uses two voltages – 110V and 220V – and this can vary depending on your location in the country. Belize also uses more than one type of plug, and in many places, the three-prong US plug will not work (although the two-prong will). Take an adapter to make sure you're covered regardless of the outlet type.

7. Check if Wi-Fi is available

While you can get pretty decent data plans in Belize, the best way to avoid extra charges is to check if your hotel or the restaurants and bars you visit have Wi-Fi. If so, you can schedule internet browsing or even a WhatsApp voice call when you don't have to pay the cost.