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In this global world, staying connected is crucial for a successful trip. From mobile boarding passes to directions, technology is increasily a non-negotiable on the road. But staying connected can be expensive and come with security concerns. Let's talk about some ways to utilize your devices without breaking the bank or sacrificing safety.
Data on the Go
US cell providers like Verizon and AT&T offer international packages, but they can quickly add up at $5 or $10 a day. T-Mobile includes international data (5gb a month) and unlimited text in most international destinations. Review your contract and international plans before leaving so you can manage your needs and budget appropriately.
If your device is unlocked, you can use a local Sim or an e-Sim for data on the go. Some will even provide a local phone number if needed. Typically to unlock your phone with a US provider, your phone will need to be paid in full. T-Mobile does allow temporary unlock. Contact customer service with your travel dates.
One option for those with unlocked devices is a mobile hotspot. Several providers offer mobile hotspots that work anywhere in the world. You can select the amount of data you need, the duration of your trip, and the location (country, region, or global). Simply keep your phone on airplane mode, turn on wifi, and connect to your mobile hotspot. This can be a significant cost savings for a family versus paying for multiple international plans through a carrier.
The best option is a local Sim or an eSim if your phone is unlocked. Most newish phones will allow two sim cards at once (either a physical sim and an eSim or two eSims). I have used both, but I personally like the ease of an eSim. The code comes straight to your email or through the sim providers' app. Buying locally can be a bit cheaper, but with two littles in tow, I don't want to worry about looking for a physical sim after arriving.
There are many providers out there, but we use Airalo. I like that they offer country, regional, and global options as well as different levels of data. We rarely use enough data to justify unlimited options that are offered by many providers. Airalo offers top up so if we need more, it is an easy fix. If you do need unlimited, Airalo has this option, too. Some countries also have the option for a local number and texts if needed.
Many locals, hotels, and even businesses outside of the US utilize WhatsApp. You do need data to send and receive messages or make calls, but you won't pay text fees through your provider. Only data. This is a convenient way to circumvent the need for local numbers or an international plan from your provider.
Download Before You Go
Another way to save a bit of money and ensure you have the information you need is to take advantage of offline options. Even in your home, adverse weather or mountains can cause spotty data!
Maps: Google maps enables users to download areas offline. While you won't get live updates like traffic, you can still use navigation and see saved locations, including those from shared lists. Move your map to the area you need. Type OK Maps in the search bar and confirm the download.
Communication: Google Translate not only translates text, it can translate photos and live conversations.The app is useful for communicating with others or to translate signage. Menus are a bit of a drawback as there tends to be idioms, but still helpful to get the gist. Even better, you can download languages offline so you don't have to use data to translate.
Museum or City Apps: Some attraction apps allow you to download materials like maps and audioguides before you arrive. This frees up data as well as having whatever you need at your fingertips.
Passes and Tickets: Be sure to download tickets before heading to the attraction. Large crowds can make data slow and you don't want to waste time waiting for barcodes to download. Likewise with boarding passes for flights or trains.
Utilizing a VPN
Data theft is a valid concern, especially when connected to public or shared wifi. While free internet at hotels and restaurants is handy, it can also put your data at risk. Utilizing an elite VPN can protect your information while on the road. You can pay by month if you only need it for one trip, or annually.
Other than data protection, a VPN also allows you to mask your location. Depending where you are traveling, you may have trouble accessing local accounts like utilities, phone and internet provider, or even your bank. Setting a VPN to a location in the US makes it easier to access accounts you need on the go.
VPNs aren't full proof. Additional safety steps like password managers, multifactor authentication, and HTTPS only mode for your browser are good safety practices whether or not you are one a VPN. Blocking ads or trackers also provide extra security.
We have been using Surfshark for years. It has been a clear winner for several reasons.
Unlimited devices on can be used on one account. As a family of four with phones, tablets, and computers, this comes in handy.
Options for a Chrome plug-in, desktop app, and a phone app which makes utilizing a VPN quick and simple. Surfshark also works with Fire TV.
Antiviral protection is included with Surfshark One for added protection
Inexpensive, especially for annual or two-year subscriptions
New Surfshark users can get an extra month free with a one month subscription or three months extra with an annual membership with our link. Mozilla VPN (based in the US) and Mullvad (Sweden) also score very highly in consumer reviews, but they are limited to five devices making them less cost effective for our family.
Other Safety Considerations
Keeping your location private isn't just for the internet. Unfortunately, the world can be a dangerous place and you do not want your location falling into the wrong person's hands. Products like Google Lens and Street are helpful for everyday consumers, but can also now be used to determine locations by those with more pernicious goals.
Don't share your itinerary in realtime. Wait until you leave a location to post your whereabouts, especially as a solo traveler.
Be mindful of posting pictures of your house, especially with street addresses in the frame. Advertising you aren't at home as well as sharing your house's location is a recipe for theft.
Do be sure to leave your itinerary with a trusted person so if something does go amiss, help can be found more quickly.
Hopefully these tips will help you save a bit of money, stay connected, and keep safe on your next adventure!
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