By Diane Vadino

Be extremely cautious with your cell phone. An errant data connection and a disadvantageous plan can make for a billing dispute in the hundreds of dollars.

To be very careful, consider buying for your American phone a pay-as-you-go Italian SIM card from companies like Wind, Tim or Vodafone, if your technology (and phone company) allows. Getting one may be as simple (and free) as calling your service provider and asking them to allow you to do so. This tactic can substantially decrease the cost of your domestic calls while in some cases, allowing for free incoming calls from family and associates back home.

Perhaps most importantly, it will limit the chances of returning home to a gargantuan phone bill. Just keep your American SIM safe, as replacing it can be a hassle.

Go to Rome City Guide.