If you don't travel frequently but are planning a trip out of the country, consider renting a GSM phone. GSM, or "global systems for mobile communication," is the brand of technology that is used throughout the rest of the world. International cell phones and satellite cell phones are widely available for purchase, but if you're just planning on traveling for a few days or even a couple of weeks, renting a cell phone should be adequate and convenient.

You should expect to pay a minimum rental fee in addition to cellular service. Most international cell phone rental companies charge by the week, but others allow you to rent by the day. If you're able to rent a phone but shop around for your own cellular service, for example, you can purchase a pre-paid SIM card that will allow you to access phone service from the local service provider wherever you travel. You can even purchase a few cards, one for every country you're going to visit. Make sure the phone's battery charger is "dual voltage." This means that it can operate on international voltages and frequencies. You should also be sure the battery is high quality, preferably a lithium battery. You don't want to run the risk of the battery dying on you while you're overseas.

When researching the rental cell phone and service plan that is right for you, provide the rental company with information about your trip and how frequently you expect to use your phone. You should also tell them if you have special considerations, like wanting to be able to check your email from your phone, for example. Once you've paid the international cell phone rental company for your rental phone, they'll assign you a phone number you can share with your contacts before you leave on your trip. Many cell phone plans now include voice mail.

Renting a cell phone for your international travel will likely save you money and time, allowing you to fully enjoy your trip without the hassle of a high phone bill later or running out of minutes on your phone card. Making international calls from a hotel phone can add up quickly, and pre-paid phone cards often include hidden connection charges and sometimes even local fees. And if you're concerned with staying in touch with colleagues, friends, and family back in the States, international cell phones provide the convenience of you being just a phone call away. You'll appreciate the convenience, too, of using your phone as often as you usually do back home, confirming hotel reservations, calling a restaurant for its hours, etc.