If we’re being honest, we are all a little too connected to the internet and our electronics. However, it is likely inevitable that you will need internet at some point on your trip and staying connected abroad will be a necessity. This is even more true now that there are so many people who are able to work remotely!
How to stay connected: Temporary access to internet
If you are only wanting temporary access to the internet, the easiest way is to use public wifi. However, you have to be careful when doing this! Most public wi-fi (at cafes, airports, etc) is unsecured, meaning people may be able to access some of your personal information.
- If you opt to use this to connect abroad, I recommend getting a VPN to protect you!
How to stay connected: Full-time access to internet
Lets be honest, part-time connection is fine, but being connected all the time is ideal. So, what is the best way to do it?!
1. International Plan through local phone carrier
- Offer an international plan that is pay-er-day or pay-per-month. Once you land in a new country and turn your phone off of airplane mode, you’ll start your day of international roaming.
- The plan is $10 a day and usually maxes out at around $100/month.
2. Local Sim Card
- Probably the cheapest option, you can pick up a local SIM card upon arriving to the country. They can be picked up at the local phone stores (equivelant to US AT&T, Verizon, etc). They also sell them in airports now, but, as with everything, I’m sure they are more expensive there.
- This is definitely the way to go for long-term travel!
- A downfall is that you have a new number
3. Sky Roam Wi-Fi
- Another source of internet that is based on daily need. You will have access to the internet by turning on your data and be charged $9 for the days you use it.
- $9 a day or $99 a month
- Visit here for more info
4. HotSpot Device
- Similar to a wireless router except they run on battery. Typically, you have to buy the router and then you have to purchase the access to the internet, which usually come in daily, monthly or yearly fees. This is amore expensive option, but gives you safe, constant use of internet. If you travel a lot, this could be your best option.
- Mifi
- Skyroams’ Solis X
- $99 per month for unlimited data
- $12 per GB and pay as you need
- $9 per day for unlimited data for 24 hours
- You can rent a Skytoam Solis for $8.99 a day
5. Google Fi International Plan
- Google Fi offers overseas coverage with the Unlimited Plan. Similar to any phone carrier, such as AT&T, etc but includes international data and texting.
- ~$50 a month
Staying Connected Abroad
Spending $100 for a 10 day trip to have access to the internet for roadway navigation, to look up reservations, find recommendations on restaurants and more is worth it. And, if you are traveling in a group, the cost is split and super affordable!
Planning an international trip? Click here for all of the resources we utilize when planning our trips!