Are you trying to figure out how to make international calls with Verizon? Or maybe you're traveling abroad and need help with your Verizon number? No worries, guys! This guide is here to break it all down in a super simple way. We'll cover everything from dialing instructions to international plans, so you can stay connected no matter where you are in the world.

Understanding Verizon International Calling

International calling with Verizon can seem a bit complex at first, but let's simplify it. Basically, when you want to call someone in another country from your Verizon phone, you need to dial a specific sequence of numbers. This sequence tells the Verizon network that you're making an international call and directs it to the correct country. Without the right steps, your call won't go through, or you might end up with unexpected charges.

The Basics of Dialing Internationally

So, how do you actually dial an international number? Here’s the basic formula:

1. Exit Code (+): This is the most common way, simply use the plus sign (+) on your phone. This replaces the International Access Code. Your phone will automatically recognize this when calling outside of the country.
2. Country Code: Every country has its own unique code. For example, the United States is 1, the United Kingdom is 44, and Australia is 61. You'll need to know the correct country code for the number you're trying to reach. A quick online search will give you the country code if you're unsure.
3. City Code: Some countries, like the United Kingdom and Italy, use city codes. These codes help narrow down the location within the country. If the number you're calling requires a city code, make sure to include it after the country code.
4. Local Number: This is the actual phone number of the person you're trying to call. It usually consists of several digits and is specific to the individual or business you're contacting.

So, putting it all together, the dialing sequence looks like this: + or 011 + [Country Code] + [City Code (if applicable)] + [Local Number]. Let's say you're calling a friend in London from your Verizon phone. The number is 020-7946-0746, you would dial +44 20-7946-0746. The plus sign (+) tells Verizon you're making an international call, 44 is the country code for the UK and 20 is the city code for London.

Finding the Right Codes

Finding the right codes is super important to make sure your calls go through without any issues. You can usually find country codes and city codes with a quick search on Google. There are also websites that list all the country codes. Keep a list of frequently called country codes if you often make international calls. This will save you time and hassle in the long run. If you're not sure about a specific code, it's always better to double-check than to risk dialing the wrong number or incurring extra charges.

Verizon International Plans and Options

To help make international calls easier and more affordable, Verizon offers several international plans and options. These plans can save you a lot of money compared to paying per-minute rates, especially if you make frequent international calls. Let's take a look at some of the most popular options.

International Calling Plans

Verizon offers different international calling plans designed to suit various needs and budgets. These plans usually come with a set number of minutes you can use to call specific countries. Some plans might cover a broader range of countries, while others are more focused on certain regions. The cost of the plan will vary depending on the number of minutes included and the countries covered. It's essential to compare the different plans to find one that matches your calling habits and the countries you call most often. By subscribing to an international calling plan, you can avoid high per-minute charges and keep your international calling costs under control.

International Travel Options

If you're traveling outside the United States, Verizon also has international travel options to keep you connected while you're abroad. These options include daily or monthly passes that give you access to data, calls, and texts in the countries you're visiting. The TravelPass is a popular option that allows you to use your domestic plan allowance in other countries for a daily fee. This can be a convenient option if you only need to use your phone for a short period while traveling. For longer trips, a monthly international plan might be a better deal. These plans offer a more substantial amount of data, calls, and texts, allowing you to stay connected without worrying about running out of credit or incurring excessive charges. Check Verizon's website or contact customer service to explore the available international travel options and choose the one that best fits your travel needs.

Pay-Per-Use Rates

If you don't subscribe to an international plan or travel option, you'll be charged pay-per-use rates for international calls, texts, and data. These rates can be quite high, so it's generally a good idea to avoid relying on them if you plan to use your phone frequently while abroad. Pay-per-use rates vary depending on the country you're calling or visiting. Before making any international calls or using data overseas, check Verizon's website for the current pay-per-use rates to avoid any surprises on your bill. If you only need to make a few short calls or send a few texts, pay-per-use might be manageable. However, for more extensive use, an international plan or travel option is definitely the way to go.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Even with the right dialing codes and an international plan, you might still run into some issues when making international calls with Verizon. Here are some common problems and how to troubleshoot them.

Call Not Going Through

If your call isn't going through, the first thing to check is that you've dialed the number correctly. Make sure you've included the exit code (+), the correct country code, the city code (if applicable), and the local number. Even a small mistake in the dialing sequence can prevent the call from going through. If you're sure you've dialed the number correctly, try calling again. Sometimes, there might be temporary network issues that prevent the call from connecting. If the problem persists, contact Verizon customer service for assistance. They can check your account settings and troubleshoot any technical issues that might be preventing your calls from going through.

Poor Call Quality

Poor call quality can be frustrating when making international calls. Several factors can affect call quality, including network congestion, distance, and the quality of the network in the country you're calling. To improve call quality, try calling at a different time of day when the network might be less congested. You can also try using a Wi-Fi calling feature if available. Wi-Fi calling uses your internet connection to make calls, which can sometimes provide better call quality than the cellular network. If you continue to experience poor call quality, contact Verizon customer service. They can investigate the issue and provide further assistance. They might also be able to suggest alternative calling methods or settings that can improve call quality.

Unexpected Charges

Unexpected charges on your Verizon bill can be a nasty surprise, especially when they're related to international calls. To avoid unexpected charges, make sure you understand the terms and conditions of your international plan or travel option. Check which countries are included in your plan and what the rates are for calls, texts, and data in those countries. If you're not sure, contact Verizon customer service for clarification. It's also a good idea to monitor your usage regularly to make sure you're not exceeding the limits of your plan. Verizon usually provides tools or apps that allow you to track your data, call, and text usage. If you notice any unusual activity or charges, contact Verizon customer service immediately to report the issue and request a review of your bill.

Tips for Saving Money on International Calls

Making international calls doesn't have to break the bank. Here are some tips to help you save money on international calls with Verizon.

Use Wi-Fi Calling

Wi-Fi calling is a great way to save money on international calls. When you use Wi-Fi calling, your calls are routed over the internet instead of the cellular network, which means you won't be charged international calling rates. Most smartphones support Wi-Fi calling, and Verizon also offers this feature. To use Wi-Fi calling, simply enable it in your phone's settings and connect to a Wi-Fi network. When you make a call, your phone will automatically use the Wi-Fi network if it's available. This can save you a significant amount of money, especially if you make frequent international calls. Just be sure to check that Wi-Fi calling is enabled before you make a call.

Consider Calling Apps

There are many calling apps available that allow you to make international calls at a much lower cost than traditional phone calls. These apps use Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) technology to transmit your calls over the internet. Some popular calling apps include WhatsApp, Skype, and Viber. These apps usually offer free calls to other users of the same app, as well as low rates for calls to landlines and mobile phones. To use these apps, you'll need to download and install them on your smartphone or computer. You'll also need a stable internet connection. Calling apps can be a great alternative to traditional phone calls, especially if you're calling someone who also uses the same app.

Text Instead of Calling

Texting is often cheaper than calling, especially when it comes to international communication. Verizon usually charges lower rates for international texts than for international calls. So, if you don't need to have a real-time conversation, consider sending a text message instead. This can be a great way to stay in touch with friends and family overseas without spending a lot of money. You can also use messaging apps like WhatsApp or Facebook Messenger to send free texts over the internet. Just be sure to check the rates for international texts before you start sending them, and monitor your usage to avoid any unexpected charges.

Conclusion

Navigating Verizon international number options doesn't have to be a headache. By understanding the dialing codes, exploring international plans, and troubleshooting common issues, you can stay connected with friends, family, and colleagues around the world without breaking the bank. Whether you're a frequent international caller or just need to make the occasional call, Verizon offers a range of options to suit your needs. So, go ahead and dial that international number with confidence!