Can I use my cell phone in Belize?

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

Fortunately, these days, you don’t have to be mobile-free as most people can easily use their phones abroad.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to using your US cell phone while visiting Belize.

1. Make sure your phone is unlocked

The first step is simple: make sure your cell phone is unlocked. That means you are not tied to a specific service provider. If you dial and your phone is locked to a carrier, you can ask them to unlock the phone, which should be a free and easy service. Check your provider’s website for more information.

2. Inform your cell phone provider that you will be traveling to Belize

You will need to inform your cell phone provider that you are leaving the US to visit Belize. They will activate roaming, which means that you will be able to access all the usual services through the Belizean network from the moment you turn on your phone.

3. Make sure voice and text services are activated

When contracting roaming services in Belize, check with your provider that you will be able to use voice and text message services. Voice service may only be activated as standard. So if both types of communication are important to you, make sure you’re ready before you leave the house.

4. Consult the cost of international roaming rates

Considering how cheap home cell phone plans are, it’s surprising how much you can be charged for roaming fees. Phone call charges can be several dollars a minute, which would be a nasty surprise when your next bill arrives. Make sure you have checked this before you arrive.

5. For heavy use: buy a Belize SIM card

If you will be using your phone a lot in Belize, another option is to purchase a Belize SIM card when you arrive. As long as your phone is unlocked and can operate on a 1900 GSM frequency, you’ll be able to do this, and there are great deals on buying pre-loaded SIM cards.

6. Bring an international plug adapter to charge your cell phone

Of course, your cell phone won’t be of much use if it loses power, so one of the most important pieces of equipment to take with you is an international plug adapter.

Belize uses two voltages, 110V and 220V, and this can change depending on where you are in the country. Belize also uses more than one type of plug, and in many places a three-prong US plug won’t work (although a two-prong will). Grab an adapter to make sure you’re covered whatever the plug type.

7. Check if Wi-Fi is available

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