There’s plenty of options to stay connected while traveling for both business and pleasure, but some are more cost-effective than others. When I went to Singapore last year, I picked up a local SIM for my mobile which means that I had a new mobile number but I was able to message on a pre-paid plan for about AUD $20. Prior to that I’ve also purchased a pre-paid international roaming plan from my Australian provider, which was another great way to ensure costs were kept down but I could still use make calls, send texts and use the internet.
There’s always a few things to consider, so here’s a list in advance of your next trip.
Consider getting local with your communications devices
We’ve all heard the horror stories of super-large phone bills because a traveler has used international roaming for the duration of their trip. (It might have happened to you!). It’s really important to consider this in advance and prepare a plan. As I did in my Singapore example above, a great way can be to get a local SIM. This means ensuring the internet on your own phone is not switched back on from the moment you leave your local airport, as automatically huge fees can be racked up (particularly by push notifications).
Use local WiFi wherever possible
The great thing about many fast food chains, hotels, pubs and coffee shops is most of them now offer free WiFi. It may only be for 15 minutes but it’s enough to log on for a quick Skype session or to browse your emails. This option may be restrictive but it won’t cost you a cent. A great way around this is to type up emails beforehand or organize your photos so you know exactly what you want to share when you do get a connection. If you do log into an unsecured WiFi hotspot (that is, it doesn’t require a password), be sure not to access personal information (such as bank accounts), and change your password regularly.
Make use of apps
Phone applications are making most things in life so much simpler. There are a myriad of applications that allow you to use an internet connection rather than your data plan to route your calls and messages through (for example, Skype and Apple FaceTime). Less phone data usage abroad means spending less on your phone bill – always a good plan!
Utilise the Cloud
Share your newest photos and videos by creating a cloud account with established servers such as Dropbox. Upload your images to the cloud then share them with your friends and family by simply emailing them the link. They will be able to keep up with your adventures without needing to access Facebook or YouTube.
Essentially, if you want to save money and stay in touch while travelling, don’t use your regular SIM. Instead, purchase one when you arrive from the country you are visiting or use free WiFi locally where available. There’s always a way to keep connected, wherever you are.
What are your experiences and advice staying connected while travelling?
Note: I partnered with business communications provider Com2 on this post.