Six Smartphone Tips for International Traveling

If you’re planning for your next international trip, you are certainly not alone. In comparison to 2022, the U.S. Travel Association found that travel spending was up 4.7% through June 2023, while air travel demand has also increased by 12% when compared to last year.

While it’s important to have your suitcase packed with your best outfits, it’s also essential to have a plan, manage costs, and be able to contact family and friends in case of emergencies. Luckily, your smartphone can do all this and more!

UScellular has six smartphone tips that can help make your next international vacation enjoyable as well as stress-free!


Check Your Plan

Before traveling abroad, be sure that you have a plan with international options, so you aren’t surprised by potential roaming costs. In addition to offering plans that include calls, text and data while traveling in Canada and Mexico, UScellular has affordable international daily and monthly passes and to meet a variety of travel needs. 

 

Get a Messaging App         

After taking a gondola ride through Venice, Italy or snapping a few pictures of the Pyramids of Giza, invite your family and friends back home to take in the sights and sounds as well through apps like Skype or What’s App. These apps aren’t tied to your phone number and allow you to connect securely using public Wi-Fi if you don’t want to use your mobile plan.

Download Maps

Did you know that Google Maps offers you the ability to download maps and access them offline, saving you precious mobile data while on-the-go? After you download an area, use the Google Maps app just like you normally would, and the offline map will guide you to your destination as long as the entire route is within the offline map.  
 

 


Speak The Language

Without knowing the native language, traveling to a foreign country or city can be a tricky adventure without the right help. Luckily, Google Translate helps you communicate in hundreds of languages by typing or speaking words or phrases into the app and similar to Google Maps, you can also download languages for offline use.


Disable Your Data Usage

One way to avoid unintended app usage and potential data charges is to turn off data roaming in your phone’s settings. It’s also a good idea to disable any apps that run in the background, turn off notifications and limit automatic app updates.

 

Put Your Phone   
in US Mode

While your phone can be a vital travel tool, you may want to have uninterrupted relaxation time while on your trip. By putting your phone in US Mode, you can limit notifications and enjoy your time away without distraction.