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 cell-free, as most people can easily use their phones abroad.

Here is 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 Belize network from the moment you turn on your phone.

3. Make sure voice and text services are turned on

When you sign up for roaming services in Belize, check with your provider that you will be able to use voice and text services. It is possible that only the voice service is activated as standard. So if both types of communication are important to you, make sure you’re ready before you leave home.

4. Check the cost of international roaming rates

Considering how cheap cell phone plans are at home, it’s surprising how much you can be charged for roaming fees. Charges for phone calls can run up to several dollars a minute, which could be an unpleasant surprise when your next bill arrives. Make sure you have checked this before you arrive.

5. For intensive use: buy a SIM card in Belize

If you will be using your phone a lot in Belize, another option is to buy 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 to buy 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 runs out of 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 your location in the country. Belize also uses more than one type of plug, and in many places a three-prong US plug will not work (although a two-prong will). Take an adapter to make sure you are covered whatever the type of plug.

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 for 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.