Any way to avoid a complete wipe after a SIM unlock?

[jhan]

Hi all.  I have a question about unlocking for international SIM use.

According to this (http://support.apple.com/kb/HT5014), after getting the unlock by calling Verizon, the phone needs to be completely wiped of all content, then restored before it will work on an international SIM.

Can this be done at home, or does it need to be done with the international SIM already installed?

I don't have an international SIM and I won't have one until I land in the foreign country.

I am not planning on bringing a laptop with me -- just the iPhone.

So if it needs the SIM, is there a workaround or some trick that I can use to avoid losing the umpteen songs and videos I have on the phone?