We all like to stay connected these days while we travel, and it's easy to forget that your normal cell phone or data plan may not work the same where you are going. While more carriers are offering expanded international options, don't assume that you will be able to use your phone the way you want to while you travel.
Check with your provider to make sure your plan will work where you will be traveling to. If not, see if they offer options to make calls, texts, and/or access data.
Links to plans for some of the major providers are listed below.
If your carrier doesn't offer what you need where you are going, you can also purchase a SIM card that will work where you are traveling to that you can swap out with your own while you are traveling. You won't be able to use your same phone number, but you can find an option that should get you whatever you need.