In today’s world, the ability to stay connected through social media, email and chat applications is more crucial than ever. When travelling, this need amplifies – letting family and friends know you’ve arrived safely, communicating with your Airbnb host, or finalising last-minute reservations.
Having internet access while travelling is also important when using translation apps, viewing maps or navigating public transport systems. And with all those hours spent on the road or in the air, you’ll probably need internet access (and a quality set of headphones) to stream your favourite music, podcasts or TV shows.
This guide collates the different ways you can stay connected when travelling overseas, including eSIMs, roaming, airport Wi-Fi and more.
Use an eSIM
‘Embedded SIMs’ or ‘eSIMs’ have risen in popularity over the last few years. Gone are the days of ordering a physical SIM card online and crossing your fingers that it arrives before your trip or scrambling to find a mobile kiosk at the airport when you land.
With an eSIM, there’s no physical card involved. You don’t need to worry about forgetting your eSIM at home or losing the pin to eject your phone’s SIM card tray. Simply download the eSIM onto your compatible mobile phone and switch it on like you would a physical SIM. Many providers allow you to buy an eSIM via an app or website, so you can instantly download it to your phone and be connected in minutes.
eSIMs cover a vast array of countries and regions, so they’re a great option if you’re travelling to multiple destinations.
Of course, physical SIM cards are still an option. While you’ll compromise on convenience, you can often find physical SIM cards at budget-friendly prices.
And if you only need to access the internet while travelling (i.e. you don’t need a phone number to make or receive calls or text messages), you’ll find that some eSIMS and SIM cards are ‘data only’. These data-only plans can often save you a few dollars.
Perth-based TravelKon is offering 15% off all international eSIMs and SIM cards storewide when you use the code POINTHACKS at checkout. Staying connected while travelling is easy!
Also read: My experience with using travel eSIMs overseas
Pocket Wi-Fi devices
If your mobile device isn’t eSIM compatible or you’re travelling in a group, you may want to consider a pocket Wi-Fi device. These portable wireless devices operate similarly to a home Wi-Fi router, emitting a signal that allows multiple devices to connect – think a mobile hotspot. Pocket Wi-Fis runs off a SIM card that connects to a mobile network, ensuring you’re always connected on the go.
You could buy a portable Wi-Fi device and a data SIM to connect to a local network. Alternatively, you could look into renting a pocket Wi-Fi at your destination. This is especially popular in major tourist hubs throughout Asia and Europe. Pocket Wi-Fi devices can be rented at airport counters and electronics stores and often come with an easy returns process, such as mailing them back or dropping them off at the airport.
Portable Wi-Fi is a sound choice if you’re working abroad, as you can conveniently connect your laptop, tablet and mobile phone. They’re also a great choice for families, allowing everyone to have internet access while overseas. But if you’re planning some time away from your travel companions, it’s best to organise individual pocket Wi-Fis or look into alternatives like roaming or eSIMs – that way, you can always stay in contact even when you’re apart.
Unlock airport Wi-Fi passwords with WiFox
It’s not worth purchasing a SIM card when you’re transiting through a country’s airport for a few hours. But sometimes, it can be hard to unlock free Wi-Fi networks or decipher the password for the airport Wi-Fi. So, how do you stay connected while travelling through an airport?
WiFox is a mobile app that allows you to tap into airport and lounge Wi-Fi passwords from around the world. The app is continually updated and, conveniently, is available offline – no (prior) Wi-Fi connection required.
The app’s information is compiled from community contributions, with new additions moderated by the app’s developers.
WiFox is available to download on iOS and Android for a fee (Point Hacks does not receive commission.)
Roaming
Generally, switching your home mobile network to ‘roaming’ while you’re abroad isn’t a great idea. That’s because many phone companies impose hefty fees for roaming and may even cap your data usage.
But there are some Australian telcos that offer fantastic-value roaming plans. For example, Vodafone post-paid customers can pay $5/day to use their plan inclusions overseas. Optus has a similar offering, with a 5GB daily allowance for $5/day. Or, with Felix Mobile, you can purchase a $20 roaming add-on and receive 4GB of data that can be used for 365 days across more than 40 countries.
Roaming is especially useful for those who need access to their usual phone number while overseas to stay in contact with family, friends, colleagues or clients. Always check the roaming inclusions of your home mobile provider to determine if it suits your needs. Otherwise, don’t forget to turn roaming ‘off’ while you’re overseas, or you may return home to a steep bill!
Earn points towards your next getaway with a credit card sign-up bonus.
How to test Wi-Fi speeds
Speedtest by Ookla is a handy tool for comparing the speed of Wi-Fi networks while travelling. It beats waiting for a webpage to load, giving you an accurate reading of the ping, download and upload speeds.
It is free and available for Mac, iOS and Android.
As a general rule, look for a minimum download speed of 1 Mbps, which is suitable for basic online activities like lightweight web browsing (text-based pages), sending emails and standard-quality audio or video streaming. More data-intensive activities, like video calls or gaming, will require a much higher download speed.
Summing up
There are lots of ways to access the internet while you’re travelling so you can stay connected with loved ones, navigate your destination or lock-in reservations.
While eSIMs are quickly becoming popular for travellers due to their convenience and flexibility, traditional SIM cards haven’t lost their appeal. Portable Wi-Fi devices are a great choice for families, groups, or those who need to hook up multiple devices while on the road. And we haven’t entirely discounted roaming with your mobile provider if it offers a value-packed plan while you’re overseas.
Personally, I use a combination of roaming with my Australian mobile provider (Felix Mobile’s 4GB roaming add-on) and eSIMs for countries where I can’t use my roaming service. I also consider how long I’ll be travelling for and whether I’ll be working on the go, as this can influence the amount of data I need. There’s no one-size-fits-all solution, and your connectivity needs will always change based on your travel plans, so don’t be afraid to mix and match.
How do you stay connected while travelling? Feel free to let us know in the comments below.
Also read: How to beat jetlag
Featured image: Anastasiia Nelen, Unsplash.
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Recent phones can store multiple eSIMs. iPhone can store 8 and have 2 active simultaneously.
Can switch a roaming one on and off when needed and use a data only one most of the time to avoid the daily roaming charge. I’m with Telstra, charge applies each day when connected, not everyday travelling.
For public wifi consider a VPN for security.
There are a lot of hotspots in the main areas of Taipei you can connect to, and almost all the MRT stations. There is a hotspot search locator on website if you want to check.
https://www.tpe-free.tw/tpe/index_en.aspx
“Taipei Free service is applicable to all and is not limited to Taipei citizens; whether you are a citizen of Taipei, a tourist in Taipei, from out of the country, or here on business trips, even foreign guests, the service is free and applicable to all with notebooks, pads, smart phones, or mobile devices within the wireless network coverage. Foreign passengers can also apply for an account at the airport or visitor centers to take advantage of this service.”