How to Use a Cell Phone in Switzerland

Vacationing in Switzerland is a nature lover's dream. While you're skiing at Davos Dorf and riding the Glacier Express, you want to make sure that you are able to use your cell phone in the case of an emergency. Using a cell phone in Switzerland is easy if you follow the correct procedures.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Plug adaptor
• List of important phone numbers
• Transformer

1. Purchase the correct plug adaptor from an electronics store before you leave home so that you can charge your cell phone while in Switzerland. Switzerland uses plug type "J."
2. Use a transformer that can handle 230 volts, which is the voltage used in Switzerland, when charging your cell phone. Your cell phone will likely fry if you do not use the correct transformer.
3. Call your cell phone provider to make sure that they offer phone coverage in Switzerland. Ask to be upgraded to international roaming.
4. Consider renting a cell phone or SIM card to use with your personal cell phone if your cellular company does not offer coverage in Switzerland.
5. Know how to dial locally within Switzerland. If you are dialing a place in Switzerland with the same area code as which you are calling, just dial the number. If the number has a different area code, dial "0," plus the area code, plus the phone number.
6. Know how to call the United States from Switzerland. First dial "00" (this is the international prefix to dial outside of Switzerland). Then dial "1" (this is the international code used to dial to the U.S.). Follow that by the area code and phone number.

Tips & Warnings

• Be sure to charge your cell phone each night using the correct plug adaptor and transformer.