Options For Making Cheap International Calls

In this age of technology, making cheap international calls is not as simple as it should be. That's because this is big business and the phone companies don't want you to know about the alternatives. But thanks to the Internet, it's not that easy to suppress this money-saving information.

1. VoIP Home Service

VoIP stands for Voice over Internet Protocol, which means phone calls over the Internet rather than traditional landlines. VoIP is one of the best ways to make cheap international calls. This is especially true with a home-based service where you can often make international calls at a flat rate.

2. VoIP Software

You can also access VoIP using software on your desktop or laptop PC or Mac. One of the most popular options is Skype, which even allows free international calls when connecting to other Skype users.

3. Browser-based VoIP Services

Using software like Skype to make cheap international calls can be a little intimidating for the average user. Browser-based services don't typically have as many features but they do streamline the process and often offer reduced rates by serving ads.

4. VoIP for Mobile

You can also use VoIP services to make calls on your mobile. With access to a Wi-Fi connection, these calls can be free, but even if not, it's always cheaper than paying your carrier even when you have an international plan. Popular options include Fring, Skype for Mobile and Truphone.

5. Other Instant Messaging and SMS Services

An alternative to making cheap international calls is to use free IM (Instant Messaging) or SMS (Short Message Service). There are many popular free clients available, and it's not just a PC-to-PC service. You can use IM and SMS PC to phone and phone to PC.

6. Prepaid International Calling Cards

Although not nearly as inexpensive as some of the VoIP options, prepaid calling options are a good option that provides a great deal of flexibility. You don't need a computer and Internet service, and you can use them anywhere that you have access to a phone.

7. International Call-back Services

Call-back services provide cheap international calls by routing your call through the cheapest option. With a call-back, quality is excellent and rates can be very low. The problem is that the rates are volatile, so the more reliable options tend to be better bets over the long-term.

8. Conventional Long Distance

If you have no other options, negotiate with your home carrier. Home-based service providers are facing stiff competition these days and are willing to work with clients in order to keep them.

There are plenty of options out there for making cheap international calls from your computer, mobile and traditional phone. Finding the right one takes a little effort but the savings are worth the trouble.

Do you want to take advantage of cheap international calls? Get the inside scoop now on www.planet-numbers.co.uk