When a cell phone does not provide coverage in certain areas, it's frustrating. Though most cell phone providers say they have nationwide coverage, there are certain limitations.
Dead Spots
No matter which cell phone service or plan you have, all cell phones enter dead spots in some places. Cell phones must be within so much distance of a cell phone tower to receive a signal. Buildings, mountains and other obstacles impede reception. Also, in more remote locations, cell phone towers may not be close enough to provide service. Check coverage maps before you travel (see Resources). These maps indicate known places where there is no cell phone coverage. Some providers encourage users to report dead spots so they can add them to the map.
Nationwide Coverage
Large cell phone providers typically offer nationwide coverage plans. These plans do not charge additional fees for roaming or long-distance, but nationwide coverage may cost more per month. If you do not have a nationwide coverage plan, you can still call anyone in the nation but you may see additional long-distance or roaming charges on your bill.
Roaming
Roaming cell phone coverage means you are outside the coverage area for your plan. This is especially true when you visit a foreign country. Your phone may still work but international roaming charges will apply for every call you make.
Local Coverage
If you choose a cell phone plan with local coverage only, you will incur charges for calls made to anyone outside your local calling area. For example, Cricket offers plans with a home-calling area (their term for local coverage). Any calls made and received in this home calling area do not incur an additional charge. However, if you call someone who is not located within your home-calling area then the company applies an additional long-distance charge. When you sign up for a cell phone plan, the company outlines your coverage area as well as the additional charges. Consider adding nationwide coverage to your plan if you frequently make calls to several cities and states.
International Coverage
Certain cell phone providers offer international coverage for an additional fee, either a roaming rate per minute per country or a monthly charge to include the coverage. If you will be traveling abroad, ask your cell phone provider if your phone will work in the country you'll visit.
Tags: cell phone, nationwide coverage, cell phone providers, phone providers, additional long-distance, calling area
