Rent a cell phone for your trip to France and get unlimited high-speed data and unlimited calls and texts in France. Our rentals are charged and to use as soon as you land in France. Simply select the type of phone you want to rent, enter the departure and return dates and your rental fee will be calculated. You will receive the cell phone 2-3 days before your departure, time permitting. Your package includes the phone with the SIM, plus all chargers and adapters, instructions, and a return package.
Please note that to call or text the USA or Canada, you must use an app. We highly recommend Talkatone as it is easy to use, free to download and, unlike many other apps, you can call landlines. WhatsApp of course is a great app but the limitation is that both users need to have it on their phone. Also, please note that to download most apps, you must rent an iPhone 6 or above.
While you can make calls in France and text in France without an app, many users tend to use their phones for activities involving data more than for calling. With any of our phone rentals, you can book hotels, check into your flight, use maps, check emails, and more with a cell phone. Again, the iPhone 5 and the Android rentals are good primarily for calling and browsing but not for downloading apps as most apps require a more recent operating system.
France Travel and Telecommunications Overview
Travel Statistics
- Annual Visitors: France attracts approximately 89 million international tourists each year, making it one of the most visited countries in the world.
- Popular Destinations: Paris, the French Riviera, and Provence are among the top destinations for visitors, with Paris being the most popular due to its iconic landmarks like the Eiffel Tower and Louvre Museum.
Telecommunications in France
- Local Operators: The main mobile operators in France are Orange, SFR, Bouygues Telecom, and Free Mobile. Orange leads the market with a significant share, followed by SFR and Bouygues Telecom.
- Population: France has a population of around 67 million people.
Use Cases for Cellular Services
- Tourists: Ideal for tourists who want to stay connected while exploring France’s cultural and historical sites.
- Business Travelers: Essential for business travelers needing reliable communication for meetings and conferences.
For more information on staying connected in France, consider our France SIM Card or France Virtual eSIM Card.
Frequently Asked Questions
When do I order?
You can order as far in advance as you like – even months prior to your departure. We will ship your rental at the appropriate date in order for you to receive it prior to your departure. Rentals are shipped ground or express service and will arrive 2 or more business days prior to your set departure date.
What will this cost me?
The applicable rental period fee for the duration of your rental period. Select the phone and enter the departure and return dates to calculate the cost.
Taxes are applicable only if you are in California.
Round-trip shipping and handling fee.
Can I download apps?
If you log on with your Apple ID, all of your apps will automatically load. Please make sure that the apps you want to download are compatible with the version of the phone you rent. Please make sure to delete your account before returning the phone – otherwise we will have all your contact information, photos, emails and other sensitive information.
How much is shipping?
If you order at least 2 weeks in advance, round-trip Ground shipping is only $15. Expedited shipping is also available. Rentals will arrive 2 business days or more prior to your set departure date when possible.
What is the latest I can order a rental phone?
You can order up to one business day prior to your departure as long as you call in before to 1:30pm Pacific Time. Exceptions can be made on a limited basis, even if you are leaving early in the morning – we can
Does the cell phone come charged?
Yes it does, but it’s always best to test the battery and charge phone before your departure.
Can I charge this phone on my trip?
Yes, you will receive an international charger and relevant plug adapters, so you can charge the phone in the U.S. or at your destination.
How do I return the phone?
Round trip shipping is included in your shipping fee for shipments within the US. You will be provided with a return package. Canadian customers must ship back to the US at their expense as prepaid international shipping is not available to us.
What happens if I cancel?
If your rental has not shipped, you will only be charged a 5% reserve fee. If your rental has been sent out, you are responsible for a two week rental fee plus the shipping fee.
What will the rates be for people calling me from the US?
That depends on the international long distance rates charged by their Long Distance Company or international calling card. We recommend using a app.
Does Cellular Abroad offer insurance against loss or damage?
Yes, rental insurance is available for $24 as an add-on once you add your item to the cart. See what is covered here.