Your United Kingdom (UK) cell phone rental features unlimited calls, texts and high speed data anywhere in the UK including England, Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales. In addition, y0ur rental works seamlessly throughout Europe.To make calls outside of the UK, for example, calling or texting the USA or Canada, you must use an app. We recommend Talkatone as it is easy to use, free and you can call to 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 in order to download most apps, you must rent an iPhone 8 or above due the operating system.
Your United Kingdom cell phone rental is ready to go and includes a charger, a UK plug adapter plus of course the phone and activated SIM card, instructions and a return package. You will be provided with a UK number. This number is emailed to you when we ship the phone and is also written in the instructions when you receive the rental. If you need a US or Canadian number, an app such as Talkatone will provide your that for free, giving you both numbers that you can use simultaneously with your rental. You will receive the cell phone rental 2-3 days prior to your departure time permitting.
Rental Steps
Select the type of phone you want, i.e., iPhone 12. Then select the departure and return dates. Your rental total will be calculated. You can then go to the cart to select the optional cell phone rental insurance and the shipping. After you check out, you will receive an order confirmation. We will ship the phone so that you receive it 2-3 business days prior to your departure, time permitting. Once you receive the phone, you can add any apps that you may need for your trip using your home’s Wi Fi. Once back from your trip, don’t forget to delete any Apple ID’s, phone locks and personal information from the phone. You can use the included USPS prepaid package to ship the rental phone back to Cellular Abroad. You have 2 business days from the date of your return to do so but if you need extra time, email us and we will put a note in our system.
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.
How do I call the US, Canada or outside the EU
To call to the US, Canada or anywhere outside the EU, you will need to use an app that allows you to dial. Skype, WhatsApp, Facetime are a few but we recommend Talkatone as it is free to use and works well.
What will this cost me?
Select your phone option, enter the departure and return dates to calculate costs.
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.
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. You can charge the phone in the US or Canada as well as in the UK
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 will need to pay for shipping back to our California location.
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.
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.