Google Project Fi
For world travelers, a Google Project Fi phone is undoubtedly the ultimate choice.
Calling is affordable worldwide. Data costs $10 per GB, which is expensive but applies globally. When connected to a WiFi network, calls are automatically routed via VOIP at a much lower cost.
Disadvantages: You need a US credit card, and Google may now suspend data service if the phone is used exclusively outside the US for long periods.
VOIP (Voice over IP) and what number to use for your bank and credits cards when staying abroad
With VOIP.MS, you can get affordable phone numbers worldwide. For some numbers, such as those in the US, you can also receive SMS messages. This means, you can use this number when you stay abroad long time for your bank and credit cards.
Here’s an example of pricing: A US number costs $0.85 per month, and calling or receiving calls in the US costs less than 1 cent per minute: $0.0090.
VOIP.MS also supports fax reception and transmission. For some countries, such as Germany, proof of residence is required to obtain a local number. Therefore, it might be better to apply while you still have a residence in that country.
You can forward these numbers to a phone or mobile device or use VOIP software like Linphone on your smartphone or computer.
Google Voice
Google Voice is a service provided by Google that allows users to make domestic and international calls at competitive rates. Here’s a summary of its key features and how it works:
Google Voice allows users to make international calls from their desktop, mobile device, or tablet. The rates vary depending on the country being called, with some countries having rates as low as $0.01 per minute. Calls from the US to Canada are free, and calls from any other country to the US are also free.
Google Voice is primarily available in the US. For international use, especially for business purposes, users may need to upgrade to Google Voice for Google Workspace. The service supports international texting, but this feature is not as widely available as voice calls.