iPhoneTrip

FAQ

About iPhoneTrip

What is iPhoneTrip

iPhoneTrip is the first International iPhone Travel service provider. We provide our customers with local iPhones and applications for their destination country before they travel. By this we allow our customers to avoid expensive voice and data roaming charges from their carrier and enjoy GPS navigation, unlimited internet everywhere, using iPhone as a modem (tethering), playing iPhone games, watching movies and using many other useful iPhone travel applications.

Who uses iPhoneTrip?

iPhoneTrip services are used by families, businesses, individuals, groups, schools, colleges and many others traveling abroad.

What are the advantages of iPhoneTrip services?

iPhoneTrip specializes in services for traveling with Smartphones, especially traveling with iPhone. We have alliances with mobile network operators to provide you with the most cost effective solutions. We have unique expertise in creating software travel solutions for Smartphones to be used by individuals and businesses.
Our solutions bring Next Level travel experience to our clients using the latest Smartphone technology available. We provide customer support in the USA, UK and Israel.

How do I contact iPhoneTrip?

· Email support is available 24 / 7 at: support@iphonetrip.com
· Send sms message with problem description to: +1 765 577 5776
· Live Chat is available at Online Consultant
· Calling from outside of the U.S.: +1-858-373-5022
· Calling within the U.S.: 1-800-355-1118

Why do I need to rent a SIM card or iPhone for travel?

Short answer: To save money and travel conveniently. That is what we call Travel Smart. If you decide to use 3G internet on your iPhone with your carrier, you will be charged outrageous prices for daily use.
For example, in order to use Google Maps navigation abroad, your carrier will charge you $.015/KB, and iPhone easily downloads over 50Mb a day, making your total bill $750/ per day.
We think this is unacceptable. Using our services you pay only a fixed daily rental price and use 3G internet free, exactly as you do at home. Our outgoing rates are much cheaper than your carrier's roaming rates. Additionally, you can use GPS services with Google Maps, free VoIP phone calls, location based search engines, games, movies, and thousands of other iPhone applications.

How does iPhoneTrip service compare to other phone rental companies?

We are the first company specializing in Smartphone renting. Our Service is better than old Cell Phone rentals you’re used to, since we not only provide you with a Smartphone, but also with the latest technology solutions to make your trip unforgettable.
We can even provide customized software solutions for your business.
With iPhoneTrip you do not have to buy a phone or make any kind of long term commitment. Unlike other companies, we do not provide you with a cell phone, but with full-fledged smartphone device and unlimited worldwide internet access for the same price.

If I like the iPhoneTrip iPhone, can I buy it from you after my trip?

Please email your request to our customer support at support@iphonetrip.com.

Do I need to sign a contract?

With iPhoneTrip there are no contracts, and no long term commitments required. You pay only for the period you rent a SIM card or Smartphone from us.

What Smartphones can I rent from you?

Currently we work only with Apple iPhones, but we plan to add RIM Blackberry and Google Nexus in the near future.

I plan to rent a car for my trip. How can your service help me?

iPhoneTrip service is specially designed to complete and enhance car rental trips. When you order our iPhone, you can also be provided with an iPhone car holder and an iPhone car charger. Then you do not need to rent a GPS. This also saves money on buying maps, tourist guides, local attraction guides, or internet café access. With iPhoneTrip rented SIM cards you can access internet anywhere out of your car, use GPS, tourist guide applications, location based search and many more applications useful for your car rental trip.

I plan to travel with kids, how can your service help me?

If your kids are bored in a museum line or on a flight, you can easily entertain them with iPhone. Thousands of on-demand games and movies are available for iPhone users. Give one iPhone to your children and they will signal you their location at any time, so that you can easily find them in an unknown place. And of course you can talk for free using VoIP apps during your vacation.

What if my Smartphone doesn't work with your SIM card?

We personally test all of our chips prior to sending them out to ensure quality service and that there are no defects. You can double-check this after you receive your SIM card. Simply install our chip and restart your smartphone. You can use it for internet and phone calls here in the U.S.; it should work fine.
Our SIM card should work with any unlocked GSM device and with any AT&T locked iPhone. If for some reason you can't use our SIM with your smartphone, please return it to us using the pre-paid return shipment label prior to your departure. You will be refunded in accordance with our refund policy.
If the device stops working during your trip, please inform us immediately and your will get the prorated refund according iPhoneTrip refund policy.

You are strongly recommended to test the rented SIM card with your smartphone prior to your departure. Please mind that your chip will be activated on your departure date only.

If you encounter problems while on the road, please contact iPhoneTrip by phone at +1-858 373 5022 or email us at support@iPhoneTrip.com.

Is it legal to use iPhoneTrip SIM cards and iPhones?

Yes, it is absolutely legal to rent and use SIM cards and iPhones from iPhoneTrip. All our SIM cards and iPhones are legally purchased.
It is also absolutely legal to use rented SIM cards with your cell phone or iPhone anywhere, while you have another contract with your domestic carrier.
It is absolutely legal to install any app from iTunes Store on the rented iPhones and iPads.

About iPhone Rentals

I am new to iPhone, how can I use it?

iPhone is extremely user friendly and simple to operate. Even with absolutely zero experience with such a device you will master all the necessary skills to operate it within 5 minutes! Upon delivery we will provide an instruction email on the use of the iPhone and its applications.

What should I do first of all, when I receive an iPhone from you?

We provide all the information in an instruction email.
If you did not choose pre-installed software kit, then follow these steps:
i. If you have your own iPhone, back it up using iTunes.
ii Set synchronization options on iTunes as you desire. We recommend setting it to “checked” and check everything you want to synchronize with the new iPhone.
iii. Connect rented iPhone to iTunes and restore all your content on it.
iv. Make sure you are logged into iTune's store and run synchronization. It will synchronize only the content available on your local computer.
v. If you wish to install our tested applications and shortcuts for your destination country, point your browser on your computer to the location specified in the instruction email and install the recommended application through iTunes. You can always install additional applications later in your destination country, while on the go.
vi. Determine the configuration of applications such as Facebook or Skype with your login and password. Make sure you have all your password information available while on the go. Read our recommendations so as to make sure all your passwords are secure and available when you need them.
If you choose pre-installed software kits when you order, then your iPhone is ready to go on delivery. Just make sure it turns on. Do not connect it to your iTunes! If you want to get additional applications or songs you can do it using App Store on your rented iPhone.

You are required to check your Smartphone while at home during the first 12 hours after you receive it. If you encounter problems while on the road, please contact iPhoneTrip by phone at +1-858 373 5022 or email us at support@iPhoneTrip.com.

What happens to my iPhone after I replace a SIM card?

The only difference you'll feel upon replacing a SIM card is different cellular number. All your settings, contacts and apps will remain exactly as-is.

Can a rented iPhone be preinstalled with special applications?

If you want a certain app preinstalled on your rented iPhone , please contact us at support@iphonetrip.com and we'll do our best supply the required apps. Later you can always download other applications including games and songs to your iPhone. Just use App Store app on your iPhone. Currently, it is impossible to synchronize your home iTunes library with preinstalled content.

Can I install new applications on a rented iPhone?

Yes you can. You can either use your existing iTunes account or create a new one and install new applications before you travel. You can also install a new application while on the go using Application app on your rented iPhone.

I already have an account with iTunes and I want to install my own applications or music on a rented iPhone. How can I do it?

There are 2 ways to do it:-
1. When you receive an iPhone from us, connect it to your computer and run iTunes. Synchronize the rented iPhone with your iTunes. It will install all your iTunes content on the rented iPhone. However it will remove any content preinstalled on this iPhone except for default Apple applications.
2. When you first receive an iPhone from us connect it to your computer, run iTunes and log into your account. Then disconnect the rented iPhone from your computer. Now it is configured with your iTunes account and when on the road you can just run Applications app or iTunes app from the rented iPhone and install anything you wish.

What additional accessories do I receive with my iPhone?

All our iPhones come with a charger, display protection shield and a protection case.

Can you rent me additional special accessories for the iPhone?

Yes. Currently, you can rent an electricity adapter, an iPhone car holder, an iPhone car charger, and an extra battery case. Specify which accessory you want during the ordering process on the web site or over the phone.

What are an "iPhoneTrip Software Kits"?

"iPhoneTrip Software Kits" are our personally tested application kits with all the key travel applications. Please visit our Products page for full list of applications: http://www.iphonetrip.com/products.html

Where can be found my rented iPhone SIM number?

We will email you your rented SIM number once the chip is activated.

iPhone Applications

How do I use a GPS in an iPhone?

You can use a built in Google Maps application, which is very useful for navigating and locating all kinds of businesses and prominent locations near you. You can also use different GPS based application from our recommended lists.

How can I make free local and international calls over the internet?

Use Voice Over IP application like Skype, iCall or TruPhone for your destination country.
Make sure it is matched with your login and password.

I am used to Google services. How can I use them with your rented iPhone?

It is very easy and convenient to use all your Google services (including Gmail) from the iPhone.
For more information contact support@iphonetrip.com.

Can you preinstall all the applications for my destination country, so that I do not have to do it myself?

Yes, please specify "iPhoneTrip Software Pack" option during your order. Also, if you have special requests, contact us at support@iphonetrip.com before we send you your iPhone and our specialists will install all you need for your trip.

What applications does the rented phone come with by default?

By default you receive standard Apple applications, i.e.:
Calendar
Clock
Photos
Camera
Weather
Google Maps
YouTube
Calculator
iPod
Notes
Email
Safari Web browser
Contacts
Voice memos
Messages
App Store
Stocks
iTunes

Account management

How do I change my address, email or credit card details?

You can contact us by a telephone or via email at support@iphonetrip.com for any changes to your account. Please specify your order ID.

How do I contact the Billing Department?

You can e-mail the iPhoneTrip billing department at support@iphonetrip.com or call us toll free at 1-800-355-1118

When will I be billed?

Itemized invoices are generated and sent to your email accounts once the chargeable call records have been sent by our International Carrier (Mobile Network Operator) partner and all charges are immediately posted to your pre-authorized credit card. All charges and calls made during the previous month will appear on this invoice; please note that the billing cycle will vary from country to country.

What is a credit card Authorization?

An authorization is different from a deposit because the funds are not actually taken from the account. Your bank will place a hold of funds against your credit card's available account balance. Once the authorization is released, the funds are then available to be used. Authorizations are automatically released when your credit card is charged after invoicing.

When is my credit card charged?

When you place your order on-line or over the phone your credit card will immediately be charged for the total number of days you used the iPhone (delivery days are not included), delivery cost and any optional hardware you have purchased. After that you will be invoiced within 30 days following your latest usage; at this time we will also bill your credit card and email you the usage for the period by cell number.

How do I report a lost or stolen phone?

Contact iPhoneTrip immediately at +1 858 373 5022 or support@iphonetrip.com.

Can I extend my rental period?

Yes. You have to notify us 24 hours in advance. Call +1 858 373 5022 or email us at support@iphonetrip.com.

Shipping

How is my iPhone/SIM card shipped?

You order will be shipped to your shipping address. The latest you will receive your order is 24 business hours before your Departure Date. If your Departure Date is on Monday, the latest we will deliver the package is Friday.

Shipping and setup time is not included in your rental fees. You will only be charged for the days you have the rented iPhone in your possession or you have the rented SIM card activated.

Your courier tracking number will be sent in a separate email few days after you place an order. Please use this link to track your order: www.fedex.com/tracking.

What time will my shipment be delivered?

All orders received by 3:00 pm Pacific Time.
We do not ship on Sundays and Holidays. Contact iPhoneTrip support team for express shipping: +1 858 373 5022 or by mail: support@iphonetrip.com

How do I return the order to iPhoneTrip?

There is no need to return the SIM card back to us. Please dispose of it, used SIM card cannot be used once again.

Your rented iPhone has to be sent back to iPhoneTrip using our pre-paid FedEx label and return package (included).

If you lost our return label, we will send you a new label for free.

Roaming & Dialing Instructions

How do I make a VoIP (internet) call to a regular phone?

Install VoIP application (like Fring or iCall) on your smartphone. Buy call credits for the application (from the application we.bsite). If requested, any VoIP app can be pre-installed by iPhoneTrip. We do not sell VoIP call credits.

How do I make Free VoIP (internet) calls to a computer?

Using VoIP applications like Skype on your (rented) Smartphone, you may call a computer for free.

How do I place an international call while in the U.S. or when traveling abroad?

Making Calls and Sending Messages While Traveling:
Use the “+”, country code, and phone number.
Example: Hold the 0 (zero) key until the “+” sign appears, then enter the country code and phone number.
• Call to Italy from the United States: Dial + 39 (Country Code) 06 (City Code = Rome) 662 5555
• Calling the U.S. from France: Dial + 1(Country Code), 561.123.4567 (area code + phone number) to call back to the U.S.

How do my contacts dial my cell phone number?

You will have US number with your SIM/iPhone. Your contacts have just to dial your local number. They won't be charged for long distance calling.

People calling you from an international location must dial US access code, and your cellular number. The code is +1.

Example:
If you are in France and your number is 888 777 1234 callers dial:
From North America 888 777 1234
From abroad: +1 888 777 1234
From within France +1 888 777 1234

Where can I find international country codes?

Use the website below to find the number you need to dial an international call: http://www.countrycodes.com

How much does it cost to call from my phone while traveling?

The voice roaming cost is dependent on your rented package. For the latest iPhoneTrip package rates, go to http://www.iphonetrip.com/prices.html. To upgrade your package while traveling, contact our support team.

Should I turn data roaming

With iPhoneTrip's iPhones and SIM cards, the settings for international data roaming should be in the “ON” position. If your settings are in the “Off” position, please turn it ON.
• For iPhone: To turn data roaming “On/Off” tap on Settings>General >Network >Data Roaming. Please ignore the “roaming charges” warning message.

How do I send text messages while traveling internationally?

Sending a text message is simple. Type a message of up to 160 characters using your keypad; enter the "+" sign, (country code), area code and phone number. For example, dial +44.201 234 5678 for sending message to UK phone, or +1 888 777 6666 for US phones.

International Coverage

What is 3G network?

3G is the wireless network standard for voice and data.

How much does it cost to use 3G data while traveling?

Using data while roaming internationally is for free.

Which countries are included in our "Europe" rental plan?

Aland Islands
Austria
Canada
Denmark
Finland
France
Germany
Guernsey
Hungary
Ireland
Isle Of Man
Italy
Mexico
Monaco
Netherlands
Norway
San Marino
Scotland (U.K.)
Spain
Svalbard
Sweden
Switzerland
United Kingdom
Vatican City (Holy See)
Wales (U.K.)

Which countries are included in our "World" rental plan?

Afghanistan
Aland Islands
Albania
Algeria
Andorra
Angola
Anguilla
Antarctica (Marambio Base)
Antigua and Barbuda
Argentina
Armenia
Aruba
Australia
Austria
Azerbaijan
Bahamas
Bahrain
Bangladesh
Barbados
Belarus
Belgium
Belize
Benin
Bermuda
Bhutan
Bolivia
Bosnia and Herzegovina
Botswana
Brazil
British Virgin Islands
Brunei
Bulgaria
Burkina Faso
Burundi
Cambodia
Cameroon
Canada
Cape Verde
Cayman Islands
Central African Republic
Chad
Chile
China
Colombia
Comoros
Congo
Congo, Democratic Republic Of The (Zaire)
Cook Islands
Costa Rica
Croatia
Curacao (Netherland Antilles)
Cyprus
Czech Republic
Denmark
Djibouti
Dominica
Dominican Republic
East Timor (Timor Leste)
Ecuador
Egypt
El Salvador
England (U.K.)
Equatorial Guinea
Estonia
Ethiopia
Falkland Islands
Faroe Islands
Fiji
Finland
Fr. Polynesia(Tahiti)
France
French Guiana
Gabon
Gambia
Georgia
Germany
Ghana
Gibraltar
Great Britain
Greece
Greenland
Grenada
Guadeloupe
Guam
Guatemala
Guernsey
Guinea
Guinea-Bissau
Guyana
Haiti
Honduras
Hong Kong
Hungary
Iceland
India
Indonesia
Iraq
Ireland
Isle Of Man
Israel
Italy
Ivory Coast
Jamaica
Japan
Jersey
Jordan
Kazakhstan
Kenya
Korea, South
Kuwait
Kyrgyzstan
Laos
Latvia
Lebanon
Lesotho
Liberia
Libya
Liechtenstein
Lithuania
Luxembourg
Macao (Macau)
Macedonia
Madagascar
Malawi
Malaysia
Maldives
Mali
Malta
Martinique
Mauritania
Mauritius
Mayotte
Mexico
Moldova
Monaco
Mongolia
Montenegro
Montserrat
Morocco
Mozambique
Namibia
Nepal
Netherlands
Netherlands Antilles (Curacao & St. Maarten)
New Caledonia
New Zealand
Nicaragua
Niger
Nigeria
Northern Mariana Islands (Saipan)
Norway
Oman
Pakistan
Palau
Palestinian Territory
Panama
Papua New Guinea
Paraguay
Peru
Philippines
Poland
Portugal
Puerto Rico
Qatar
Reunion
Romania
Russia
Rwanda
Samoa (Western)
San Marino
Saudi Arabia
Scotland (U.K.)
Senegal
Serbia
Seychelles
Sierra Leone
Singapore
Slovakia
Slovenia
Solomon Islands
South Africa
Spain
Sri Lanka
St. Barthelemy
St. Kitts and Nevis
St. Lucia
St. Maarten (Netherland Antilles)
St. Martin
St. Pierre and Miquelon
St. Vincent and The Grenadines
Sudan
Suriname
Svalbard
Swaziland
Sweden
Switzerland
Syria
Taiwan
Tajikistan
Tanzania
Thailand
Togo
Tonga
Trinidad and Tobago
Tunisia
Turkey
Turkmenistan
Turks and Caicos
U.S. Virgin Islands
Uganda
Ukraine
United Arab Emirates
United Kingdom
Uruguay
Uzbekistan
Vanuatu
Vatican City (Holy See)
Venezuela
Vietnam
Wales (U.K.)
Western Sahara
Yemen
Zambia
Zimbabwe

Where can I use your SIM cards ?

We have a coverage agreements with network carriers in more than 120 countries.
Europe coverage map:
http://www.iphonetrip.com/uploads/GSM_EuropePoster2009A.pdf

World coverage map:
http://www.iphonetrip.com/uploads/GSM_WorldPoster2009A.pdf

America coverage map:
http://www.iphonetrip.com/uploads/GSM_AmericasPoster2009A.pdf

Arab world coverage map:
http://www.iphonetrip.com/uploads/GSM_ArabWorldPoster2008A.pdf

Asia coverage map:
http://www.iphonetrip.com/uploads/GSM_AsiaPacPoster2008A.pdf

About SIM card rentals

What is a SIM Card?

A subscriber identity module (SIM) on a removable SIM card securely stores the service-subscriber key (IMSI) used to identify a subscriber on mobile telephony devices (such as computers and mobile phones). The SIM card allows users to change phones by simply removing the SIM card from one mobile phone and inserting it into another mobile phone or broadband telephony device.

A SIM card contains its unique serial number, international unique number of the mobile user (IMSI), security authentication and ciphering information, temporary information related to the local network (also temporary local id that has been issued to the user), a list of the services the user has access to and two passwords (PIN for usual use and PUK for unlocking).

Is it legal replacing the SIM card?

Replacing a SIM card is completely legal.

How to replace a SIM card ?

Replacing a SIM card varies from device to device. Usually you open up the back of your phone and your SIM card is being held in a holder, sometimes you may have to remove the battery if it's in the way. You take that sim card out and put in the rented one.
Sometimes phones take a minute or two to load with the new sim card.

How to replace a SIM card in iPhone?

1. Locate the SIM card holder on your iPhone. On the top of your phone, there are 3 ports. One is for headsets, one is the power switch and the longer, oval one in the middle is where your SIM card is stored. Note the little hole at one end of this panel.

2. Unfold a paper clip and insert the end of it into the hole in your SIM card panel. Once you insert it, the panel pops out of place and you can fully remove the tray holding the SIM card from your iPhone.

3. Remove your SIM card and replace it with a rented one. The tray is designed to hold your SIM card in a specific direction, so you can't insert it incorrectly. Reinsert the tray holding the new SIM card into your iPhone, and slide it in until the panel is flush with the outside of your iPhone.

NEWER USE FORCE TO INSERT THE TRAY BACK!

Can I use my own Smartphone with the rented SIM card?

Yes. Our SIM cards can be used with with any unrestricted (unlocked) smartphone device. It includes any unlocked Blackberry, Android, Palm and PDA smartphones.

To check if your smartphone is unlocked please call your cellular provider.

Can I use my own iPhone with the rented SIM card?

Yes. Our SIM cards will work with any iPhone purchased in US, and any unlocked iPhone purchased abroad.

Can I use my own SIM card in the rented iPhone?

No. Our iPhones are locked on iPhoneTrip SIM cards. Only our SIM cards can be used with our iPhones.

What happens to my smartphone after I replace a SIM card?

Nothing. The only difference you'll feel upon replacing a SIM card is different cellular number. All your settings, contacts and apps will remain exactly as with your original SIM card.

Where can be found my new number for the rented SIM?

We will email you your rented SIM number once the chip is activated.

What number I'll have with your SIM card?

With our SIM cards you'll have US based number. So your friends won't be charged for long-distance calling upon dialing your number.

Cruise Services

Will I be able to roam on cruise ships?

Yes, we have 34 cruise ships where you will be able to roam (voice AND data). In addition, you will be able to roam while going off the ship and visiting different countries.

On which cruises you provide data and voice roaming?

Aida Cruises
Algerie Ferries
Azamara Cruises
Brittany Ferries
Carnival Cruise Line
Celebrity Cruise Line
Club Cruises
Crystal Cruises
CTN Tunisia Ferries
Disney Cruise Line
FTV Yachts
Hanza Cruises
Holland America Cruise Line
Institute for Shipboard Education
Island Cruise Line
Japan Grace Cruise Line
LD Lines Ferries
Louis Cruise Line
Norwegian Cruise Line
Oceania Cruises
P&O Ferries
Passat Cruises
Pullmantur Cruises
Quail Cruises
Regent Seven Seas Cruises
Royal Caribbean International
Silversea Cruises
Superfast Ferries
TPZ Cruises
TUI Cruise Line
VanGogh Cruise Line
Voyages of Discovery
Windstar Cruises
Yachts of Seabourn

What is the price for on-board roaming?

Please visit our "Prices" page and choose "Cruise Ships" as your destination for the most recent cruise tariffs.

I just came back from 10 days in Paris where I used an Iphonetrip SIM card in my Iphone. It was a big help. The SIM card worked flawlessly and proved to be quite useful. It connected reliably with a local 3G telephone network and was great for getting data. Email came in quick and fast...Full review
- russpatt, discussions.apple.com
» Read more reviews
Refund Policy