Billing error? Sadly, no. Hotel phone charges are on a par with the $8 minibar soda. But there are ways to phone home without going broke.

Get the 411 on phone charges Know what you're getting into before getting on the wire. Thanks to the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), hotels must post the toll-free number of their carrier in the room. Find out what the com-pany charges and make an informed decision on how to proceed.

Go wireless If you have a cell phone, use it. These days, cell rates are often lower than hotel phone rates.

Be a card shark A calling card can save you a bundle. By law, hotels must let you use your 800 or calling card number, though many levy a $1 access fee. You may be able to avoid multiple fees by pressing the pound key (rather than disconnecting) between calls.

Get crafty An ingenious service called Kallback (800-516-9992) lets you program its system so you can chat at low rates and dodge access fees. The service can be used anywhere and has a James Bond appeal. Phone Kallback, wait one ring, and hang up. Seconds later, Kallback's computer returns the call and you enter the number you want to reach.