Call the US from Mexico: Step-by-Step Calling Tips

Whether you are a seasoned traveler to Mexico or this will be your first time to drive across the border, understanding how to call the United States from Mexico is a subject you should master. Even though thousands of Americans safely drive into Mexico every year, being prepared is one sure-fire way to make your trip go smoothly. You might only use your phone for taking some once-in-a-lifetime pictures, but you may need it to make a call, as well.

Mexico is our friendly, sunny neighbor, but it is still a foreign country with its own traditions and processes. Besides getting to sample some culinary delights you may not have tried before; you’ll also find different mobile telephone networks. The same goes for car insurance. Your US-based car insurance is not legal in Mexico. You must purchase Mexican car insurance to drive there. Not to worry, though. With these handy tips and your experienced auto coverage professionals at Sanborn’s Mexico Auto Insurance, you’ll be just fine. Purchasing your Mexico auto insurance in advance, as well as learning how to use your cell phone before you leave makes good sense.

A travel security list for a road trip to Mexico that includes servicing your car before your big trip is important. Understanding how to call and make a claim if something does happen while you are driving in Mexico is also a great way to be prepared.

Understanding the Basics of International Calling

Between different country codes and international calling codes, it can be hard to understand exactly how to make a call (or receive one) while you are visiting a foreign country. Let’s break it down with some easy-to-understand steps. Keep these handy while you are driving in Mexico and remember, if you need to call your Mexico car insurance company to report a claim, call them yourself. Never let someone else call your insurer from their phone (or your phone).

And just in case you do get stuck on the side of the road for any reason, always plan an emergency kit to keep in your vehicle.

Contact Your Provider Before You Leave

Always check with your cell phone service provider before you leave. In most cases, you will be able to activate international roaming for a smoother experience. Keep in mind you may experience a substantial increase in your bill for the dates you designate.

Step-by-Step Guide to Dialing a US Number from Mexico

Using the correct dialing format to make international calls from Mexico is imperative if you don’t want to end up frustrated.

1.       From a cell phone, press and hold the number zero for a moment on your smartphone’s screen dial pad to get the + sign

2.       Enter the US calling code (1)

3.       Enter the area code and phone number

4.       This process is slightly different for a landline (see below).

Traveling to another country brings a new set of experiences and challenges, so embrace the changes. If you need to use your phone to call the US, you’ll be happy to know it’s not that hard.

Tips to Call the US from Mexico Cheaply

There are different ways you can ensure you will be able to make a phone call from Mexico to the US. Hopefully you won’t need to call your Mexico car insurance company, but if you do, it’s best to understand the process before you are on the side of the road. Here are some tips to keep things simple.

·       Install WhatsApp on your phone: WhatsApp is a service you can download from either the Google Play Store or Apple App Store and use for free, as long as you have Wi-Fi or an internet connection. You can use it to message or call people in Mexico and in the states, regardless of their phone plan. Keep in mind that if you do not have internet available, WhatsApp will connect using data roaming, which will cost money.

·       Enable international roaming: Call your cell phone service provider and ask them to enable international roaming. This is the most expensive option, but also the easiest since it only involves a phone call.

·       Use a calling card: You can purchase a prepaid calling card designed for calling from Mexico. Most cards work with major carriers, such as Verizon, T-Mobile, Cingular and others. Cards have different rates, so be sure and get one with the cheapest rates. Each calling card has specific instructions for how to use it correctly.

·       Purchase a Mexico SIM card: Once you insert a SIM card from a Mexican cell phone provider into your phone, you’ll be able to make international calls with ease. You can pick your plan according to the number of days you will be in Mexico. There are three services available in Mexico: Telcel, Movistar and AT&T Mexico.

·       Mexican month-to-month plan: For as little as $11 per month, you can enroll in a no-contract, unlimited talking and messaging plan. Check with your local cell phone provider.

·       VoIP services: Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) allows you to call over the Internet. As long as you have an internet connection and VoIP software installed on your phone, this is a considerably cheaper option and works well for people who will be staying in Mexico for a longer duration.

There are many ways to call home (or your insurance office) from Mexico. The main requirement is that you plan ahead, pick one and learn how to use it so you aren’t trying to figure it out on the fly.

Considerations for Mobile vs. Landline Calls

Calling from a landline is slightly different than using your cell phone. When calling from a landline, you must first dial the Mexico exit code “00”. After that, press 1, plus the area code and number.

FAQs About Calling America from Mexico

Getting ready for your escape to the beaches, historical ruins, or wine country of Mexico? You are in for a sensory delight of tastes, sounds, smells and touch. Thousands of Americans drive into Mexico every year with no problems. Make your trip as smooth as possible by being prepared. Here are some common questions and answers around calling home from Mexico.

Is There an Additional Cost When Calling the US from Mexico?

Yes, if you choose to enable your phone to have international roaming available. This can be quite expensive. There are other choices available that are cheaper, but for the most part, if you want to be certain you’ll be able to make that call, it’s best to pay for some type of enabled technology.

Can You Dial US 1-800 Numbers from Mexico?

Toll-free numbers are meant to be used when the caller is in the same country as the business. If a company tries to give you an 800 number to reach them, ask for an alternative.

How Do I Identify the Area Code for the Region I Am Trying to Call in the US?

Most Americans are familiar with “area codes”. If you are trying to call somewhere in the US and you do not know the area code, you can usually find it by searching your internet browser for “area code in x”. Keep in mind that this will use up minutes or be a charge on your plan. Here is a handy site that lists all area codes in the US.

What to Do if the Call Isn't Going Through to the US Number?

If you are trying to make a call from Mexico to the US and it is not going through, there are some things you can try, including:

·       Follow the correct steps to make a call from Mexico to the US.

·       Make sure your phone has a good signal.

·       Turn your phone off and wait a few seconds before turning it back on.

·       Make sure you are calling the correct number.

·       Use someone else’s phone to try the same number.

Protect Yourself While You Travel to Mexico

When you decide to travel to Mexico by vehicle, rather than flying or some other form of transport, you are setting yourself up for more freedom to explore — whether through planned excursions or just on a whim. You can pack more things (even the family pet)! Once you get to your sunny destination (or on the way), you want to ensure you can call out, just in case.

That’s why it is important to plan in advance by understanding how to call the US from Mexico. Once you’ve got that task mastered, it’s time to purchase your Mexican car insurance, which is a legal requirement. The professionals at Sanborn’s Mexico Auto Insurance have been helping travelers like you for more than 75 years. It’s easy to get a quote online, or you can give them a call at 800-222-0158 or simply stop by one of their offices on your way to the border (they are located in 3 bordering states).