Our phones are an essential travel item. As I mentioned in a previous article, cell phones can assist us with all of our travel needs. But how can you make your phone work so you can be able to use it to its full potential? There are tips and items available that will help you stay connected even when you are beyond the outskirts of your data coverage.
KnowRoaming
In addition to their SIM cards, the Toronto-based company sells SIM stickers, which you can place over your existing SIM card. With the SIM sticker you can connect to local carriers to ensure that you become connected upon arrival. You can save up to 85% off international voice and data roaming in more than 200 countries. Plus, with both KnowRoaming SIM cards and stickers, there is free-worldwide WhatsApp usage. Unlimited data plans are $7.99 a day.
Project Fi
Project Fi is a Google wireless service. It is available in over 135 countries and territories and the neat thing is is that Project Fi, upon obtaining service, will transfer you to the best available signal. This is due to Google’s partnership with major 4G LTE networks, which is currently expanding.
What’s even better is you don’t have to worry about accruing charges when going abroad since your phone plan will automatically connect and the fee will remain flat at $10/GB. You also get unlimited international texting. To join Project Fi, all you need is your ZIP code. After that you have a data plan of your choice (starting at $20/month) and the choice of purchasing or activating a phone (unfortunately though, only Google’s Pixel and Nexus phones are compatible with phone service, but you can activate iPhones and iPads for data if you already have a main line).
Activate Airplane Mode when you can
Airplane mode is a setting that disables voice and data services as well as Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and GPS among other services. Although Bluetooth and Wi-Fi can be enabled. By turning on this mode, you can prevent roaming charges and will save you a lot of battery power.
It is suggested to activate airplane mode before going on a trip because you may be still be charged fees regarding roaming voice calls and text messages, even if you do not answer them. Your data may link to any local carriers so calls will be directed to your current location.
Take advantage of free Wi-Fi
When you are abroad there are many places that offer Wi-Fi – hotels, restaurants, or any area with a lot of foot traffic. You can inquire with the staff regarding a username and password (if applicable), or look for any Wi-Fi signs.
McDonald’s and Starbucks are restaurant chains with locations all over the world so it is easy to recognize the bright logos from a distant. So finding a location is a guarantee that you will get free Wi-Fi. In regards to areas with “a lot of foot traffic” cities may have Wi-Fi in public parks and busier districts. Just know that some places will require a purchase, and know the risks of accessing public Wi-Fi.
Sometimes the search can be overwhelming and feel like a walk in the forest, or you simply don’t have the time for it. Luckily, there is an app that is available for download on Android and iOS. Simply called “Wi-Fi Finder,” this app will download a database of free and paid spots around the world, which you can use offline. In addition to these suggestions it is also wise to discuss with your carrier provider regarding roaming agreements. Each of the major providers (T-Mobile, AT&T, Sprint, and Verizon) provides roaming agreements, but the amount of countries serviced and the rates vary. You should also monitor data usage by checking on your phone the apps that use the most data. That way you can know to quit when you are finished using them to avoid further data usage. Try to download needed apps before leaving home. And remember: don’t forget your charger!
photo credit: Tony Webster on Flickr, Google Project Fi – Nano SIM Card
[accordion_tab title=”Collegiate Correspondent: Gabriel Pacana” default]
[/accordion_tab]
