In a word, yes. Even with new technology available, people are still using international calling cards to connect with friends and family overseas.

But why?

International calling cards allow you to call any number worldwide for a fixed fee – no more bill shock!

However, there are a few things to consider before you decide to get one.

In this article, we’ll explore the pros and cons of using international calling cards and give you some tips on where to purchase them.

The Pros of international calling cards

International calling cards are a great way to save money whether you’re using them to call family abroad or even while travelling.

Plus, they’re perfect for when you’re lost or stranded without access to cellular service. However, there are some cons to using them as well. For example, international calling cards don’t always offer the best rates, and can be more expensive than using your regular phone.

Additionally, calling cards can be difficult to use if you don’t have access to the internet, as you need to input the card number and the phone number you’re calling.

The Cons of international calling cards

The rates for international calls may vary significantly from card to card, so it’s important to compare before making a purchase.

Some phone cards come with hidden fees (like daily maintenance fees), so it’s important to read the fine print before making a purchase.

Additionally, a lot of international phone cards do not include access to 1800 numbers. If you’re looking to call a number in another country that only offers special numbers chances are, you may be out of luck.

Lastly, some people believe that international calling cards are a way for phone scammers to steal your money. So, before using a phone card, be sure to do your research and be aware of the potential dangers.

Best places to purchase calling cards

While you can still buy calling cards from general retail outlets like:

• Gas stations
• Grocery stores
• Convenience/Retail Stores, etc.

We recommend purchasing from specialist retailers who only sell calling cards.

The reason for this is that most general stores don’t know the features, calling rates, or if they have hidden fees.

Also, if something goes wrong with that card, the best the store can offer you is a refund, they will not be able to resolve any tech issues that may arise.

To take it a step further we recommend purchasing from an online retailer, since all of the information is available.

How do prepaid international phone cards work?

Using an international calling card is super easy:

Step 1: Dial the access number
Step 2: Enter your Pin
Step 3: Dial the international phone number

Admittedly, this is a long process, BUT if you have a mobile phone, you can program this entire sequence into your phone.

Just add all of these steps separated only by a comma. The tells your phone that you’re moving on to the next step in the process.

Do calling cards work on cell phone?

Yes, you can use your cell phone, landline or payphone as long as you can call the local access number you can use international calling cards.

Can I buy a calling card online?

When it comes to purchasing calling cards, online stores are the way to go. Not only do they have a wider range of options and prices than physical stores, but you can also be sure that the information on the card is true. Checking for hidden charges or fees before making a purchase is always advisable, though.

How Can I Avoid the Problems Associated with Pre-paid Phone Cards?

The most common problems associated with phone cards are phone cards that are pre-expired (typically happens when buying from general stores) and technical issues (calls dropping, cross-lines, not able to connect) or other weird phenomena.

The very best way to avoid these issues is to call the customer service team before you purchase and ask them questions around their refund policy, what happens if there is a technical issue and how long does it take to resolve, as well as which phone cards are best for your situation.

You will learn a lot from the webpage but you’ll learn a lot more from calling them to see how responsive they are.

Why would someone use a prepaid phone card?

Here are 5 reasons why someone may want to use a prepaid phone card are:

Cheap international calls: calling cards can save you up to 90% on your international phone calls.

No bill shock: you know exactly how much money you are spending.

Accessibility: Not everyone has access to a strong internet connection but everyone has access to a phone.

Hard to ban: Iran recently banned Whatsapp, before that Instagram, Facebook and also Tik Tok making it harder for its citizens to communicate. Calling cards are a great way to side-step issues like this.

User-friendly: if you’re calling to older people, they will typically feel more comfortable using a phone rather than a calling app.

How Can I Avoid the Problems Associated with Pre-paid Phone Cards?

The most common problems associated with phone cards are phone cards that are pre-expired (typically happens when buying from general stores) and technical issues (calls dropping, cross-lines, not able to connect) or other weird phenomena.

The very best way to avoid these issues is to call the customer service team before you purchase and ask them questions around their refund policy, what happens if there is a technical issue and how long does it take to resolve, as well as which phone cards are best for your situation.

You will learn a lot from the webpage but you’ll learn a lot more from calling them to see how responsive they are.

Conclusion

International calling cards are still a thing, but there are a few things to remember before pulling the trigger.

For the Pros, international calling cards offer an affordable way to call international numbers and give you broader reach (not everyone has good internet but a phone); they’re affordable and can be purchased in most countries.

The Cons of international calling cards include the potential for hidden fees.

If you’re considering using international calling cards, read the website carefully, watch for hidden fees, and call the customer support team.