We live in a fast-paced, digital world. Everything we do relies on technology and access to information. Every year, more people are traveling, moving, and working abroad. This creates challenges of being able to find the best ways to stay connected. While there are many options available, not all are created equal. There are many pros and cons that each person must consider for their individual situation and budget.

How International Roaming Charges Work

Travelers and digital nomads need to understand how data plans work across international borders to ensure that they are getting the best deal. When you take your phone or another data-connected device internationally, your carrier will charge you for that service.

In most cases, international roaming charges are significantly higher than you pay for domestic data use. The reason for this is because your domestic data carrier has negotiated discounted rates within their territory or has access to their own network of satellites or towers. When you travel abroad, the carrier must pay higher fees to the carriers in your destination country. These higher charges are then passed on to the consumer (often with a markup).

For this reason, many travelers play it safe by turning off their mobile data when they land in a new country. The challenge is that you lose your connection to the outside world. Think about all the apps and information that you are accustomed to accessing, like maps to navigate an unfamiliar city, being able to check-in for your upcoming flight, or posting the latest update to your travel blog.

Data Options When Travelling Internationally

Fortunately, travelers have plenty of options when it comes to getting access to data. Here are some of the most popular ways that people access their data from anywhere in the world. 

International Roaming

Relying on international roaming is probably the easiest way to access your data. Simply continue using your phone wherever you have a cell signal. The problem is that this can get really expensive. Depending on where you are traveling, a few calls can add up to hundreds or thousands of dollars. Since tracking your data when roaming is difficult, you could be taking a huge financial risk.

People tend to forget that data comes in many different forms. You might think that you can avoid the high charges by not making calls or streaming videos. What people don’t realize is that our phones and devices often use data without us knowing. For example, apps that have a scheduled update or receive push notifications are actively receiving and using data. Don’t trust that your phone isn’t processing data and turn the data off unless you are prepared to potentially receive a huge bill when you get home.

Get an International Plan from Your Existing Carrier

Another option is to request additional coverage from your existing provider through an international data plan. This is cheaper than paying roaming charges, but it can still be expensive, especially if you are traveling for an extended period of time. The other downside is that this typically only covers your cell phone data. Even if your phone has a hotspot, you shouldn’t expect to have much bandwidth for devices like a laptop.

Purchase an International SIM Card

Some people opt to purchase a SIM card that can be used in their destination country. SIM cards work well, but usually have a limited amount of data, minutes, or texts before you need to recharge or purchase more data. Using a new SIM card won’t work with every phone. Some carriers lock their device so that you can only use a SIM card that they provide. Unlocked phones can be purchased but they are typically more expensive. If you plan to visit multiple countries in a single trip, you might be forced to purchase different SIM cards for each location.

Connect to A Public WiFi

Most phones have WiFi capabilities. This allows you to connect to the internet directly and bypass the typical cell phone network for data and calling. The challenge with this method is that you will only have access to data when you are able to connect to WiFi, such as at your hotel or a restaurant with a public Wifi network.

Most devices today allow users to make phone and video calls over WiFi, however, you should check with your carrier on what rates they charge. In many cases, carriers will allow you to make WiFi calls to your home country for free, but still charge regular international rates for calls made to international numbers. One way around this is to use apps like Whatsapp for international calls. A word of caution, Whatsapp may switch back and forth between cellular data to maintain a strong connection. This could leave you incurring unexpected roaming charges.

Connecting to public WiFi can also be risky and can leave you and your data vulnerable to cybercriminals or hacks. Public WiFi should be avoided if your device contains sensitive data such as bank account information or passwords. If you are traveling for work, your employer may have a policy against connecting to public networks.

Use a Portable WiFi Device

One of the most reliable and cost-effective ways to access your data abroad is by using a portable WiFi device, also known as a mobile travel hotspot. A portable WiFi device allows users to have access to a WiFi network wherever they go. These devices are small (about the size of a mobile phone) and can easily fit in a handbag or backpack. Because you aren’t connecting to a public WiFi network, you can feel confident that criminals won’t have access to your data. Using a hotspot or WiFi doesn’t drain your battery as quickly as when it’s connected to a mobile network.

Connect with a Provider that Travelers Trust

One of the leading innovators in the space is GlocalMe. Our devices automatically connect to the best available mobile signal giving you immediate access to your own private and secure WiFi network. What makes our devices unique is our patented CloudSIM technology which makes your surfing experience completely SIM-free. Better yet, you can simply track and purchase data plans via the GlocalMe App which can be downloaded on your phone.

We have several different portable WiFi devices to choose from giving travelers options that meet their needs and budget. Once you have your GlocalMe WiFi device, you simply need to select a data plan. Coverage is available in over 140 countries, so whether you are visiting just one country or on a global tour, you can feel confident that you will have a connection wherever you go.

If you aren’t ready to commit to purchasing a WiFi device from us, you can simply rent one for a low daily rate. This gives you the data access you need and the ability to try out our products before making a purchase.

Our team is here to help you stay connected. No matter where you are travelling, we’re confident that we have the perfect data solution for your adventure. To check out our selection of portable WiFi devices and data plans, visit our website or check out our FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions). You can alsocontact the GlocalMe customer support team who will help guide you to the right product or answer any additional questions that you may have.