How do I text international SMS?

Crossing Borders with a Text: Your Guide to Sending International SMS

In our globally connected world, staying in touch with friends, family, and even business contacts across borders is more important than ever. While voice calls and video chats have their place, sometimes a simple text message (SMS) is the most convenient and efficient way to communicate. Thankfully, sending an international SMS isn’t complicated. Here’s a breakdown of how to bridge the gap and fire off that text to someone across the globe:

The Simple Steps to Global Texting:

The process itself is surprisingly straightforward and utilizes the standard messaging app you already know and love on your phone. Here’s what you need to do:

1. Open Your Messaging App: Navigate to the default messaging application on your smartphone. Whether it’s Messages on iOS or the default SMS app on Android, the process remains the same.

2. Compose Your Message: Draft your message as you normally would for a domestic text. Keep it concise and to the point, remembering that some carriers still limit the number of characters you can use per message, even internationally.

3. Enter the International Number: This is the crucial step. Instead of a regular phone number, you need to use the complete international format. This generally involves the following components:

   • The Plus Sign (+): This signifies an international call and is essential. On most phones, you can access the plus sign by long-pressing the ‘0’ key.
   • The Country Code: This is a one to three-digit code that identifies the country you are sending the message to. You can easily find a list of country codes online with a quick search (e.g., “+1 for the United States,” “+44 for the United Kingdom”).
   • The Area Code (if applicable): Some countries have area codes that need to be included.
   • The Recipient’s Phone Number: Finally, add the person’s local phone number. Remember to remove any leading zeros that might be part of the local number when using the international format.

   Example: To text a friend in the United Kingdom with the phone number 07700 900000, you would enter: +447700900000

4. Hit Send: Once you’ve meticulously entered the international number and crafted your message, tap the send button just as you would for any other text message.

The Cost Consideration: Check Your Carrier’s Policy

While sending an international SMS is technically easy, the financial implications can be more complex. Before you send that message, it’s absolutely critical to check with your mobile carrier about their international texting rates.

Here’s why this is so important:

• Standard Plan Coverage: Your existing phone plan might not include international SMS.
• Extra Charges: You could be charged per message for sending international SMS, and these charges can be significantly higher than domestic rates.
• Roaming Charges: If you’re traveling abroad and using your phone to send SMS, you’ll likely incur roaming charges in addition to the international texting fees.
• Bundled Packages: Some providers offer international packages that include a set number of SMS messages or a reduced per-message rate. Inquire about these options.

To avoid a bill shock, call your provider, visit their website, or check your account settings within their app to understand the international SMS rates associated with your plan.

Beyond SMS: Alternative Communication Methods

If you’re concerned about the cost of international SMS, consider using alternative communication methods that rely on data instead of SMS credit. Popular options include:

• WhatsApp: Requires both you and the recipient to have the app installed.
• Facebook Messenger: Similar to WhatsApp, relies on a data connection.
• Telegram: Another popular messaging app focused on security and privacy.
• Viber: Offers both messaging and voice call functionalities.

These apps typically allow you to send text messages, images, videos, and make voice/video calls using your internet connection (Wi-Fi or mobile data), potentially saving you money on international communication.

In Conclusion:

Sending international SMS is a convenient way to stay connected globally, but understanding the process and potential costs is vital. By correctly formatting the phone number and checking with your carrier, you can confidently send your message and avoid any unexpected charges. And remember, if you’re looking for a more cost-effective solution, explore the many data-based messaging apps available today. Happy texting!