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Staying connected while travelling is essential, but many travellers make costly mistakes with their phone plans. Whether it’s unexpected roaming fees, unreliable service, or incompatible SIM cards, these errors can lead to frustration and unnecessary expenses. Here’s what to watch out for—and how to ensure you stay connected without breaking the bank.
1. Forgetting to Check Roaming Charges
One of the most common (and expensive) mistakes travellers make is assuming their phone plan works the same overseas as it does at home. Many providers charge exorbitant roaming fees for calls, texts, and data usage, leaving travellers with shockingly high bills when they return.
How to Avoid It
Before you leave, check with your provider to see if your plan includes international roaming. If not, consider purchasing a travel-specific plan, or better yet, buy eSIM for travel to access affordable data in your destination without the hassle of a physical SIM card.
2. Relying on Public Wi-Fi Without Precautions
Public Wi-Fi is convenient, but it’s also a hotspot for cybercriminals. Logging into banking apps, checking emails, or making purchases on unsecured networks can put your personal information at risk.
How to Avoid It
Use a Virtual Private Network (VPN) whenever you connect to public Wi-Fi. A VPN encrypts your data, making it harder for hackers to access your information. Also, avoid entering sensitive information unless you’re on a trusted network.
3. Not Checking Network Compatibility
Not all phones work with all networks. If you’re travelling to a country with different network frequencies, your phone may not function properly, even with a local SIM.
How to Avoid It
Check your phone’s specifications and ensure it’s compatible with the network bands used in your destination. If your phone is locked to your carrier, you may need to request an unlock before switching SIM cards.
4. Using the Wrong SIM Card Option
Travellers often assume a local SIM card is the best choice, but it’s not always convenient. Buying a SIM at the airport can be overpriced, and finding a local provider can be a hassle if you don’t speak the language. Additionally, some SIMs may not offer the best coverage or data allowances for tourists.
How to Avoid It
Compare options before you travel. In many cases, an eSIM is a smarter choice—it allows you to activate a plan instantly without needing a physical card. If you prefer a traditional SIM, research the best providers in your destination before you arrive.
5. Running Out of Data Too Quickly
Streaming videos, using GPS, and uploading photos can quickly eat up your data allowance. Many travellers underestimate how much data they’ll need and end up paying for expensive top-ups.
How to Avoid It
Monitor your data usage through your phone’s settings and download offline maps, music, and entertainment before you travel. When possible, use Wi-Fi for high-data activities like video calls or streaming.
6. Ignoring Time Zone Differences for Calls and Messages
If you’re travelling across time zones, your phone may automatically update the local time, but your contacts back home may not realise the difference. Receiving calls or messages in the middle of the night can be frustrating.
How to Avoid It
Inform friends, family, and colleagues of your new time zone. Use scheduled messages or “Do Not Disturb” settings to manage notifications while you sleep.
7. Not Having a Backup Plan
Many travellers rely solely on their primary phone and network provider, only to run into problems like lost service, damaged devices, or network outages.
How to Avoid It
Have a backup plan. Carry a secondary SIM, a portable Wi-Fi device, or even an old phone in case of emergencies. Store important contacts offline, and always have a way to communicate if your primary method fails.
Staying connected while travelling doesn’t have to be stressful or expensive. By planning ahead and avoiding these common mistakes, you can enjoy seamless connectivity wherever your adventures take you.