You’ll obviously need cell phone coverage when traveling to Germany. Among the reasons why you need phone services are so obvious and include keeping in touch with family back at home or even communicating with potential employers. Moreover, Germany is on the verge of ultimately going digital in terms of remitting bus fare, ordering foods, or even shopping. Surviving in Berlin, Frankfurt, or even Hamburg without a phone can be a real snare, if not a nightmare.
Other than getting a new personal phone, it is also okay to rent one. However, there are different frequencies, let alone technical platforms for mobile use in Germany. Germany is open to a variety of service providers with various technological advancements.
Here are factors that will help you get the right mobile phone service when traveling to Germany:
- Staying duration
How long are you planning to stay in Germany? Will it take a few days, several weeks, months, or even years? Before even dwelling on a phone service provider, you need to check if you really need the services in the first place. If you’ll stay for a few days, then there is no need to go through tiresome process to acquire a line. A quick, reliable option is that you can always rent a phone. Most travel agents will readily offer communication lines and cellular gadgets for hire. In the long run, hiring for a few days is not expensive at all. Many airports also provide phones for rental, but it’s a bit pricey. We recommend you go for agents.
- Locked/unlocked phones
Is your phone locked for use within Europe? Well, a locked phone has courier restrictions over specific regions. Mostly, you’ll find phones locked for use in their manufacturing region. If your phone is unlocked, then you don’t need to worry about a single thing. Such phones can be used with the country’s local line as they are compatible with the courier. You can roam on international couriers. However, you should also know that without a SIM card in Germany and Europe, your phone is obsolete or useless. That’s a simple rule for international roaming, which many people don’t know exists.
- CDMA/GSM
Digital wireless systems operate in a broader category of either GSM OR CDMA. It is important to note that both these systems are available in various parts of Germany and larger Europe. However, GSM tends to have many subscribers compared to the latter. On the other hand, the gap is between the two technologies is surviving on the vulnerability of the 4G/LTE system. So, among which of the above networks is your phone compatible with? After all, high-quality cellular gadgets from trusted brands should be in a position to accommodate all the three network systems. Confirm with your local mobile service provider if your phone is compatible.
- Type of services
What is your main reason for getting a phone? Well, if you don’t need phone services that urgently when traveling to Germany, you can always enjoy the services of free apps and Wi-Fi. Several social media applications are free yet provide such a meticulous and reliable way of communication. For instance, you can send texts, pictures, audio files, or even make video calls at absolutely zero cost. So, do the math and decide on what you need most. In some circumstances, mobile phone services are a luxury that we have to forego.
