Globetrotting, jet-setting, or simply hopping abroad for a conference—however you refer to your international trips, one thing is always a factor—the cost. One of the biggest costs is often your phone bill, and there are articles out there drawing attention to just how many people are baffled by high mobile charges when traveling abroad.
Most of your trip planning attention will undoubtedly go to accommodation, entertainment, and exploration—leaving the phone costs at the bottom of the list. Without proper planning, using your phone in a foreign country can lead to hefty roaming fees and other little charges that sneak their way onto your phone bill. If you’ve ever been caught off-guard by a whopping mobile phone bill when you return home from a trip, you can probably still feel the sting.
With so many people having been there and done that, plenty have advice to share on reducing mobile phone costs when traveling—and we’re about to share it with you.
1. Use Free Wi-Fi Networks
Free Wi-Fi networks can save the day when traveling—so take full advantage of them. You can avoid using your data by asking the hotels, restaurants, and stores you visit if they have free Wi-Fi available. Turn your mobile data off and only turn it on when you absolutely must use it.
Benefits of Free Wi-Fi
- No roaming fees: Wi-Fi access will enable you to use your usual apps and keep in touch with family and friends when not busy in meetings or exploring.
A Note About Free Wi-Fi Security
We all know that Wi-Fi networks aren’t always the safest to use. Because of this, using a VPN (Virtual Private Network) is a good idea. Using a VPN hides the data that’s sent via the net to and from your phone. It encrypts your data so it can’t be accessed when connected to a free Wi-Fi network.
2. Use eSIMs
What is an eSIM, and how does it work? It’s a relatively new technology that allows users to switch between mobile carriers without physically changing SIM cards. An eSIM is an embedded SIM. It is a digital SIM built into your phone that can be programmed remotely with carrier details. This means you can easily switch between mobile networks in different countries without fumbling over removing your SIM card. And we all know how stressful losing a SIM card can be.
If you have an older mobile phone, you may need to upgrade to an eSIM device. What is an eSIM device? It’s a mobile phone with a SIM card embedded in it—the iPhone 14 is a good example. Statistics show that eSIMs are already being readily adopted and that manufacturers plan to start producing more eSIM-compatible devices in the near future.
Benefits of Using an eSIM
- Convenience: You won’t have to worry about losing a physical SIM card or buying one when arriving in a new country. A new plan can be activated on your device digitally within minutes.
- Flexibility: eSIMs allow you to switch between carriers while crossing borders, ensuring you always have access to the best rates in each new country you visit.
- Cost saving: You can access local networks via eSIM without overpaying for international roaming fees. This is usually more cost-effective than relying on your home carrier’s roaming services.
How to Get an eSIM
Many modern smartphones, including newer iPhone and Android models, support eSIM tech. If your phone is compatible, you can easily set up an eSIM by downloading an eSIM app. You’ll be able to access a plan with affordable rates designed for travelers.
3. Purchase a Local SIM Card
Another effective way to keep your mobile phone bill on the lower end of the spectrum is to purchase a local SIM card once you arrive in the country you’re visiting. You can then use local mobile networks, which is cheaper than incurring roaming charges.
What to Expect Using a Local SIM Card
- Prepaid plans: When you buy a local SIM card, it typically comes with a prepaid plan that includes a set amount of data, talk time, and text messages. Since you’re using a local network, you can enjoy lower rates compared to international roaming fees.
- Temporary number: You’ll need to make and receive calls using a different number from your normal one. This can make it a little challenging for family and friends to reach out to you on your regular number.
- No long-term commitments: One of the benefits of a local SIM is that it won’t tie you into long-term contracts. They’re ideal for short trips. Simply purchase one, top it up if necessary, and discard it once your trip is over.
Although this option will save you money, switching SIM cards can be an inconvenience, especially if you’re hopping between multiple countries on the same trip. But if you don’t have an eSIM-compatible device, this may be the only option you have.
Remember, traveling doesn’t have to mean a hefty phone bill. Using free Wi-Fi, opting for an eSIM device, or purchasing a local SIM card can help keep costs minimal.
