Mobile phone

[tocpe321]

Last time we went we got a Three PAYG sim and paid for a month long add on.

It worked out well although it's only 3G speed. Not a big issue for me.

The only 'problem' is it doesn't include calls to US numbers.

Using this sim would give you a different number so you could just let essential contacts know it.

You would also need to check your phone is unlocked

[Bolto6]

I’ve got o2 travel inclusive in my contract and it was brilliant when we were away. I could make calls (not that I did) and use data as I would here. Perfect when we got lost one night and needed google maps to get us back on track.

If you’ve got an iPhone, as long as you’re on WiFi you can send iMessages to others, but also if you have WhatsApp you can text and call using that on WiFi as well. Honestly virtually everywhere has WiFi now.

[tocpe321]

Also there is an app called Duo that works across Android and Apple devices

It's basically a cross device version of Facetime.

[loldis]

What's the reason to go tech free? Makes more sense to just take your normal phone than to purchase another one for a single use. Put a different SIM in it that people don't have the number for if you don't want to be contacted.

I don't bother with a separate SIM, I removed social media from my phone years ago so it's just got messages which I mute and only check at times convenient to me. But it means I still have MDE, Uber, maps, etc which I consider essential while travelling.

[Andybear]

I'm with O2 and the plan I have includes their 'travel inclusive zone' bolt on which includes America. It's great.

[bosshogg]

We use a combination of either 3UK or EE Max sims for "free" data and unlimited minutes calling each other.
For calling internal USA numbers I usually sign up for Skype's free worldwide trial and use this.

[looloomoomoo]

I'd agree, just take your phone - wi fi everywhere, you can use facebook or what's app to text or call. You can even use Skype or FaceTime if you want to see someone.
Agree that a smartphone is pretty much essential for fast passes, booking restaurants etc.
We all take ours as it is a great way to keep in touch if you want to do different things.