Traveling Abroad? Save Data

how to save data when traveling abroad

Travelling abroad is an exhilarating experience, but it can be dampened by the excessive data usage and exorbitant roaming charges that come with it. To avoid a shocking bill upon your return, there are several strategies you can employ to control data usage and stay connected without breaking the bank.

Firstly, utilise local Wi-Fi networks whenever possible. Many establishments offer free Wi-Fi, so make it a habit to ask for Wi-Fi credentials when visiting a new location. This will help you save a significant amount of data.

Secondly, download maps and travel guides in advance. Offline maps and guides, such as Google Maps, allow you to navigate and explore your destination without using data.

Thirdly, disable automatic app updates and background data usage. These can quickly consume a lot of data, so it's important to restrict or disable them before travelling.

Additionally, take advantage of data-saving modes on your smartphone, which limit background data usage and reduce data-intensive activities.

Lastly, optimise your streaming usage by downloading content in advance or using streaming apps that offer offline viewing.

By implementing these strategies, you can control data usage, avoid roaming charges, and enjoy a stress-free travel experience while staying connected.

Characteristics Values
Use Wi-Fi whenever possible Connect to free Wi-Fi hotspots at hotels, cafes, and restaurants
Download maps and guides Download offline maps and travel guides in advance
Disable automatic app updates Turn off automatic app updates and only update apps using Wi-Fi
Utilize data-saving modes Enable data-saving modes on your device to limit background data usage
Optimize streaming usage Download content in advance for offline viewing
Turn off cellular data roaming Disable cellular data roaming to avoid unexpected charges
Purchase a local SIM card Buy a local SIM card for affordable data plans
Use a VPN Use a VPN to protect your data and reduce data usage
Use data-saving browsers Use browsers with data-saving modes, e.g., Opera Mini, Chrome

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Use offline maps and guides

Using offline maps and guides is a great way to save data when travelling abroad. Here are some tips to make the most of this feature:

Download Maps Beforehand

Before embarking on your trip, download offline maps of your destination. This will allow you to access maps and get directions without using any data. Google Maps, for example, allows you to download maps of specific areas, which you can then access offline. This feature is available for over 220 territories and countries worldwide. Simply open the app, search for your destination, and follow the steps to download the map.

Save Locations and Plan Your Itinerary

Once you have downloaded the offline map, you can save locations, sights, and addresses to your itinerary. This will help you easily navigate to key places without getting lost. You can also use the GPS location feature to find out exactly where you are and follow the blue dot to make sure you're heading in the right direction.

Use Offline Navigation Apps

In addition to Google Maps, there are other offline navigation apps available, such as Here WeGo, Maps.Me, and OsmAnd, which offer various benefits. Here WeGo, for example, provides walking, cycling, and public transit directions, even when offline. Maps.Me offers detailed offline directions and includes places and hiking trails that may not be available on other apps.

Access Offline Search and Voice Navigation

Offline maps usually offer a search function that allows you to look for streets, landmarks, and addresses without an internet connection. Additionally, some apps provide voice navigation instructions, which can be extremely helpful during road trips or when driving in a new place.

Save Maps for Offline Use in Other Apps

While Google Maps and other navigation apps are great for directions, you may also want to access maps within other apps, such as travel guides. Triposo, for example, allows you to download data packs for your destination, including maps, activities, hotels, and restaurants, all of which can be accessed offline.

By utilising these tips, you can effectively use offline maps and guides to save data when travelling abroad. This will help you stay connected and explore new places without worrying about excessive data usage or roaming charges.

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Connect to local Wi-Fi

Connecting to local Wi-Fi is one of the most effective ways to save data and stay connected while travelling. Here are some tips to help you make the most of local Wi-Fi networks:

Ask for Wi-Fi Credentials

Whenever you visit a new location, such as a cafe, restaurant, or hotel, make it a habit to inquire about the Wi-Fi credentials. This way, you can stay connected without using your mobile data. Many establishments offer free Wi-Fi to their customers, so don't hesitate to ask.

Plan Your Day Around Wi-Fi Hotspots

When travelling, plan your day to maximise your time spent in locations that offer free Wi-Fi. This could include cafes, restaurants, hotels, airports, public parks, and public transportation hubs. By strategically choosing these locations, you can minimise your data consumption.

Use a VPN for Secure Browsing

When connecting to public Wi-Fi networks, prioritise your online security by using a Virtual Private Network (VPN). A VPN encrypts your internet connection, protecting your personal information and online activities from potential hackers or network administrators. This is especially crucial when performing sensitive tasks like online banking.

Download Content in Advance

Before embarking on your travels, download essential content such as maps, travel guides, and entertainment (movies, TV shows, music) to your device. This way, you can access them offline without relying on a data connection. This is a great way to save data while still having access to the information and entertainment you need.

Optimise Your App Settings

Review and adjust your app settings to limit background data usage. Disable auto-play videos, automatic app updates, and background app refreshing. By customising these settings, you can significantly reduce data consumption without compromising the functionality of your apps.

Take Advantage of Wi-Fi Calling

Use messaging apps that offer Wi-Fi calling, such as WhatsApp, Skype, or Viber, to make calls and send messages over Wi-Fi. This way, you can stay in touch with friends and family without incurring international calling charges. Wi-Fi calling is a cost-effective alternative to traditional mobile networks.

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Disable automatic app updates

When travelling abroad, it is important to be mindful of your data usage to avoid expensive roaming charges. One way to do this is by disabling automatic app updates. Here are some detailed steps to help you do this:

For Android Devices:

  • Open the Google Play Store app on your device.
  • Tap on your profile icon located in the top right corner.
  • Select "Settings" from the menu.
  • Expand the "Network Preferences" section and choose "Auto-update Apps".
  • Select "Don't Auto-update Apps" or "Over Wi-Fi Only" from the pop-up menu.
  • Tap "Done" to confirm.

Alternatively, you can disable automatic updates for specific apps:

  • Open the Play Store and navigate to the app you want to change the auto-update settings for.
  • Tap on the three-dot menu icon in the top right corner.
  • Unselect or uncheck "Enable Auto Update".

For iOS Devices:

  • Open the App Store on your device.
  • Tap on your profile icon.
  • Go to "Settings".
  • Select "Automatic Downloads" and toggle off "App Updates".

By disabling automatic app updates, you can control your data consumption and save money while travelling abroad. Remember to manually update your apps when connected to Wi-Fi to ensure you have the latest bug fixes and security patches.

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Use data-saving modes

Using data-saving modes is a great way to reduce data usage when travelling abroad. Here are some tips to help you get the most out of your data plan:

Low Data Mode on iPhone

If your iPhone has iOS 13 or a later version, you can turn on low data mode to reduce data usage. This will stop apps from using data when not in use, prevent them from updating or refreshing in the background, reduce streaming quality, and turn off automatic downloads and backups.

To turn on low data mode for your iPhone:

  • Tap "Cellular".
  • Tap "Mobile Data".
  • Turn on "Low Data Mode".

Data Saver Mode on Android

Android phones have a data saver mode that works similarly to the iPhone's low data mode. It limits what apps can do in the background when you aren't connected to Wi-Fi.

To turn on data saver mode for a Samsung smartphone:

  • Tap "Connections".
  • Tap "Data Usage".

To turn it on for a Google device:

Tap "Network & Internet".

Download Content Instead of Streaming

Streaming services like Netflix, Spotify, and Apple Podcasts can quickly use up your data. However, most streaming apps have a download option. So, if you're heading abroad, you can download your favourite music, podcasts, and shows to your device before you leave and play them without an internet connection.

Take Maps Offline

Navigation apps like Google Maps are essential for travellers, but they eat up data. If you're exploring a new city, consider taking Google Maps offline:

  • Open Google Maps while you have a Wi-Fi connection.
  • Search for your destination.
  • Tap "More" at the bottom of the map, then "Download Offline Map" and "Download".

Once downloaded, you can use Google Maps as normal and get turn-by-turn navigation without using as much data.

Use Your Browser's Reading List

You can also save web pages and articles to your browser's reading list. When you add a page to your reading list, your browser downloads it for offline viewing, allowing you to access it anytime, anywhere, even without a Wi-Fi or mobile network signal.

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Download content for offline streaming

Downloading content for offline streaming is a great way to save data while traveling abroad. Here are some tips to help you maximize your entertainment without burning through your mobile data:

Amazon Prime Video

Amazon Prime members can download titles to watch offline anywhere in the world. Before traveling, check the selection marked "Watch While Abroad" to see what's available. You can access Amazon Prime Video on Android devices through the Google Play store, on iOS devices through the App Store, and on Amazon's Fire devices, where the Prime Video app comes pre-installed.

Netflix

Netflix allows users to download a large selection of TV shows and movies for offline viewing. These include popular original series such as "Stranger Things," "Ozark," "Queer Eye," and "The Great British Baking Show." To download, simply look for the download button on the details page of the show or movie you want to watch. You will need the latest version of the Netflix app.

YouTube Red

YouTube's monthly subscription service, YouTube Red, offers subscribers the option to download videos for offline viewing. This includes exclusive content such as "Cobra Kai" and "Step Up: High Water." However, this service is not free and costs $10 per month for an individual plan or $15 for a family plan.

Showtime, Starz, and Epix

These premium channels offer subscribers the ability to download videos from their libraries onto mobile devices via their corresponding apps. Popular titles such as "Homeland," "Billions," "Outlander," and "Ash vs. Evil Dead" can be downloaded and watched without burning through your data plan.

Vimeo

Vimeo allows users to download most of its content, including TED Talks and indie films, onto a smartphone or tablet. However, content from their TV partnerships with Lionsgate and Starz is not available for offline viewing on the Vimeo app.

ITunes, Google Play, VUDU, FandangoNOW, and Amazon Prime Video Store

These non-subscription services offer a wide selection of downloadable videos, including rentals, free content, and previously purchased videos. You can load up on movies or TV shows for your outbound journey and easily add new content for your return trip.

General Tips:

  • Check your device's storage space to ensure you have enough room for your downloads.
  • Download your content at home using a Wi-Fi connection to avoid using your cellular data.
  • Consider opting for standard-definition downloads, which use less data and still provide decent viewing quality, especially on smartphones.

Frequently asked questions

There are several ways to save on international data roaming charges. Firstly, turning off data roaming or switching to airplane mode will prevent any accidental data usage. You can also buy an international data roaming plan or a local SIM card, but these options can be expensive. Disabling apps and background operations that use data, such as automatic updates and backups, will also help reduce data usage. Utilizing messaging apps such as WhatsApp and Skype can help you stay connected without incurring additional charges.

To reduce data usage when traveling, it is recommended to use local Wi-Fi networks whenever possible and to download maps and travel guides for offline use. Disabling automatic app updates and utilizing data-saving modes on your device can also significantly reduce data consumption. It is also important to optimize streaming usage by downloading content in advance instead of streaming online.

When traveling abroad, it is important to limit background data usage as many apps update and refresh in the background, draining your data. On iOS devices, you can enable Low Data Mode, while Android devices offer Data Saver Mode to reduce background data usage. Additionally, disabling automatic updates and turning off Wi-Fi Assist (iOS) or Network Switch (Android) can help save data. Monitoring your data usage and setting data limits for specific apps can also help you stay within your data allowance.

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