Traveling Abroad? Turn Off These

When travelling abroad, it's important to be aware of the potential costs of using your mobile phone. To avoid unexpected charges, there are several settings you can turn off on your device. Firstly, you should turn off Cellular/Mobile Data if you don't have an international data plan. This will prevent your phone from using data and incurring roaming charges. You can also turn off data roaming specifically, which will stop your phone from connecting to networks that aren't owned by your carrier. Additionally, you can put your phone into Airplane Mode, which will disable calls and data usage. If you need to use data, you can connect to WiFi or purchase a local SIM card. These steps will help you avoid unexpected charges when travelling internationally.

Turn off cellular data

When travelling abroad, it is important to be aware of the various features on your phone that can be turned off to avoid large bills for data roaming charges. One of the most important things to do is to turn off cellular data.

Turning Off Cellular Data

Turning off your cellular data will prevent you from being charged for using data outside of your carrier's network. This is particularly important if your carrier does not support data roaming or if you do not have an international data plan. By turning off cellular data, you can avoid unexpected charges and save money while still being able to access the internet and use apps when connected to Wi-Fi.

How to Turn Off Cellular Data

The process of turning off cellular data may vary slightly depending on your device and carrier. However, the general steps are as follows:

• Go to the Settings app on your device.
• Locate and tap on "Cellular" or "Cellular Data".
• If your device has a single SIM card or eSIM, turn on "Cellular Data" and then tap on "Cellular Data Options". If your device uses Dual SIM or Dual eSIM, turn on "Cellular Data", tap the number you want to modify, and then tap "Cellular Data Options".
• In the "Cellular Data Options", turn off the "Data Roaming" feature. This will ensure that your device does not use a cellular data network when outside of your carrier's coverage area.

Other Tips for Managing Data Usage Abroad

In addition to turning off cellular data, there are a few other things you can do to manage your data usage and avoid roaming charges:

• Use Wi-Fi: Connect to Wi-Fi whenever possible. This will allow you to access the internet and use data-intensive apps without incurring roaming charges.
• Use Alternative Messaging Apps: Apps like WhatsApp, Facebook Messenger, Skype, or Google Voice allow you to send messages and make calls over Wi-Fi, avoiding the need to use your cellular data.
• Disable Background App Refresh: You can prevent apps from using data in the background by disabling the Background App Refresh feature. This will stop apps from updating unless you open them manually.
• Turn On Airplane Mode: When you don't need data access, turning on Airplane Mode will ensure that your device does not connect to any cellular networks, thus avoiding accidental data usage.

By following these tips, you can effectively manage your data usage and avoid unexpected charges while travelling abroad.

Disable background app refresh

When travelling abroad, it is important to be mindful of your data usage, especially if you are on a limited data plan or are unsure about the data roaming charges at your destination. One way to reduce data usage is to disable background app refresh on your device.

Background App Refresh is a setting that allows apps to automatically update and pull new content in the background, even when you are not actively using them. This feature is enabled by default on iPhones, iPads, and Apple Watches. While it keeps your apps up-to-date and reduces loading times when switching between apps, it can also consume a significant amount of data and drain your battery life.

To disable Background App Refresh on your iPhone or iPad, go to "Settings," then tap "General," and select "Background App Refresh." Here, you can choose to disable the feature for specific apps or turn it off completely. If you want to disable it for all apps, simply tap "Background App Refresh" at the top of the page and select "Off" on the next screen.

Disabling Background App Refresh will help reduce data usage and preserve your battery life while travelling abroad. It is recommended to turn it off for apps that you won't be using during your trip or those that don't require constant updates. However, if you rely on certain apps for work or important information, you may want to keep Background App Refresh enabled for those specific apps.

Additionally, you can also limit Background App Refresh to Wi-Fi connections only, which will save your data to a large extent. This can be done by selecting the "Wi-Fi" option under the "Background App Refresh" settings.

Turn off data roaming

When travelling abroad, it is important to turn off data roaming on your phone to avoid unexpected charges. Data roaming is a feature that allows your phone to connect to a mobile network outside of your carrier's coverage area. While this enables you to continue accessing mobile services, it can be extremely costly.

How to Turn Off Data Roaming

To turn off data roaming on your iPhone or iPad, go to the Settings app, then Cellular or Mobile Data. Toggle off the Cellular Data option. Next, tap on the Cellular Data Options and turn off the Data Roaming toggle. This will ensure that your device does not connect to foreign towers or networks, preventing expensive roaming charges.

Third-Party Apps

Be aware that certain third-party apps, such as Google, iCloud, and Dropbox, may have automatic data syncing features that can turn on cellular data and data roaming without your knowledge. Before your trip, go through your installed apps and uninstall or restrict data access for these types of apps. Additionally, reset your data usage statistics and monitor the graph while travelling. This way, if something is still using data after turning off data roaming, you will be able to identify the culprit immediately.

Alternative Options

If you need data access during your trip, consider purchasing a prepaid data plan or local SIM card. Alternatively, look into eSIM support, which allows you to access cheap, convenient mobile data plans on demand. With a prepaid eSIM plan, you can connect to data anywhere in the world without worrying about spotty Wi-Fi connections. However, be mindful that additional charges may apply when using eSIM while travelling, so check with your carrier beforehand.

Airplane Mode

While Airplane Mode is an option to disable data roaming, it is not entirely reliable. It turns off all your phone's radio connections, including cellular, Bluetooth, and Wi-Fi. However, apps that don't require an internet connection can still use data in the background, resulting in unexpected charges. Therefore, it is best to turn off data roaming manually or use a prepaid data plan.

Use airplane mode

When travelling abroad, it is a good idea to use airplane mode on your phone. This is a setting that disables all wireless communication, including cellular, Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth connections. Here are some reasons why you should use airplane mode when travelling:

Extend Your Battery Life

Cellular communication is one of the biggest drains on your phone's battery. When you're travelling and your phone is constantly searching for a signal, this can use up a lot of power. By putting your phone into airplane mode, you can conserve battery power and still use your phone as a camera, notebook, or for other functions that don't require a connection.

Save Data on a Local SIM

If you're using a local SIM card when travelling, you may accidentally use up your data allowance through automatic downloads, app updates, or streaming services. Airplane mode prevents your phone from using any data, so you can avoid unexpected charges.

Speed Up Charging

Your phone charges more slowly when it's turned on and actively being used. As airplane mode uses less power, it can help your phone charge faster, which is especially useful if you're in a hurry or don't have access to a power outlet for very long.

Fix Wireless Connection Issues

If you're having trouble connecting to a new wireless network, such as the Wi-Fi at your hotel or Airbnb, turning airplane mode on and off can help reset your phone's networking services without having to reboot your device.

Stay Focused and Present

Constant notifications and messages can distract you from fully experiencing your travels. Turning on airplane mode allows you to stay focused on your surroundings and avoid the constant interruptions of messages and social media.

Buy a local SIM card

When travelling abroad, buying a local SIM card is a great way to save money and stay connected. Here are some tips to help you navigate the process:

Benefits of Buying a Local SIM Card

Local SIM cards offer several advantages over international plans or roaming services:

• Cost savings: Local SIM cards often provide the cheapest option for using your phone internationally. They offer better rates than international SIM cards or plans from your home provider.
• Avoiding roaming charges: Roaming charges can be extremely expensive, and you may be surprised with a hefty bill upon your return. A local SIM card helps you avoid these charges altogether.
• Access to local discounts: In addition to better rates, local SIM cards may provide access to special discounts or promotions within the country.

Where to Buy a Local SIM Card

You can usually find SIM cards at the airport, local stores, convenience stores, newsstands, or even vending machines. However, it is recommended to purchase from an official network shop or an authentic provider to avoid scams and faulty SIMs. Some countries may have restrictions on foreigners purchasing SIM cards, so it's a good idea to check the regulations for your destination country in advance.

What You Need to Buy a Local SIM Card

Requirements may vary by country, but here are some common items you may need:

• An unlocked phone: Ensure your phone is unlocked before your trip. Some phones have a holding period before they can be unlocked, so check with your service provider.
• Local address: In some countries, you may need to provide a local address to purchase a SIM card.
• Passport: In certain countries, you may need to provide passport photos or show your passport when buying a SIM card.

Tips for Using a Local SIM Card

• Check phone compatibility: Ensure your phone is compatible with the local mobile networks. Most countries use the GSM system, but it's worth verifying to avoid any issues.
• Verify coverage: Check the provider's coverage map to ensure you'll have service in the areas you plan to visit.
• Compare plans and rates: Research the different plans and rates offered by local providers to find the best deal for your needs.
• Note your local number: Write down your new local number for future reference, especially if you're using a local or international SIM card.
• Hold on to your old SIM card: Keep your old SIM card safe by taping it to a card and storing it in your wallet. This way, you can easily switch back when you return home.
• Add useful contacts: Save local emergency numbers to your contacts, as not all countries use the same emergency codes.
• Consider using WhatsApp: Having a foreign phone number may make it easier for locals to contact you via WhatsApp rather than SMS.
• Check e-SIM compatibility: If your phone is e-SIM compatible, you may be able to avoid physical SIM cards altogether and opt for a more convenient e-SIM option.

Frequently asked questions