TheStreet

Tech Trends

If you travel overseas you're well aware of how much it could cost if you leave your smartphone turned on. (Those of you with GSM-based world-phones with service from AT&T and T-Mobile).

Since carriers charge outrageous fees for overseas data usage, a week of low-to-normal use could set you back thousands of dollars.

No exaggeration. Thousands. I'm speaking from personal experience. Turn your data off.

Or, check out what Tep Wireless is offering: wireless Internet access (via rental Wi-fi hotspots) in Europe for as little as nine dollars a day.

Now, the small print. Depending on the country you're visiting that price could be anywhere from $5 to $15 per day (depending on the length of the rental and which of the 38 countries you'll be visiting). Still an amazing bargain.

The service includes for a total of 1 GB of 3G data. Not 1 GB per day. 1 GB per trip. An extra 1.4 GB costs an additional $55. 4 GB more will set you back $95.

These prices may sound somewhat high compared to what we're used to paying at home, at home, but this could save you hundreds. Even compared to the new lower international rates from AT&T and Verizon.

For more information, check out Tep's Website.