Staying Connected While Travelling (SIMs, WiFi & WhatsApp)

suebraybon
5 days ago
3 min read

When you’re travelling, staying connected helps everything run more smoothly — from checking flight details and Google Maps, to sharing a photos. But understanding how best to connect overseas can be confusing. Let’s make it simple.

Why Staying Connected Matters

A reliable phone connection gives peace of mind — especially when travelling solo or in unfamiliar places. Whether you’re texting family, calling your hotel, or navigating from the train station, being able to connect easily is essential.

Option 1: International SIM Cards

An international SIM is one of the easiest and most cost-effective ways to stay connected overseas.

You can buy one before you leave home (companies like TravelSIM, Simify, or OneSimCard are popular), or purchase a local SIM at your destination’s airport.

Pros:

Usually much cheaper than roaming.
You get a local number for calls and data.
Easy to top up online.

My experience: On my UK trip in 2024, I used an actual international SIM — and while it worked fine overseas, I made the mistake of removing my Australian SIM card. Somewhere between airports, I lost it! That meant a lot of mucking around once I got home to reconnect my number. Lesson learned!

Tip: Make sure your phone is unlocked before you go, and always store your regular SIM somewhere safe — like taped inside your passport cover or zipped into your wallet.

Option 2: eSIMs – My Favourite Choice

These days, eSIMs are the easiest way to stay connected while travelling. You simply buy and activate them online — no physical card to swap or lose.

On my recent Europe trip, I used a Breeze eSIM, and it was wonderful. It activated automatically when I landed, connected seamlessly across several countries, and I could top it up straight from my phone. No stress, no shops, no waiting around.

Pros:

Instant activation.
No physical SIM card to lose.
Works across multiple countries.
Easy to manage via app.

If your phone supports eSIMs (most newer models do), this is by far the most convenient option.

Option 3: Travel Wi-Fi Devices

Portable travel Wi-Fi routers (sometimes called “pocket Wi-Fi”) are another good option if you’re travelling with family or friends. These small devices connect to local networks and create a private Wi-Fi hotspot for your phones, tablets, and laptops.

Pros:

One device can connect multiple people.
Avoids SIM swapping.
Works in remote areas if coverage is available.

Cons:

Needs daily charging.
You’ll pay a daily rental or purchase fee.

If you prefer something simpler, many hotels, cafes, and trains offer free Wi-Fi — just remember that public networks can be unreliable or insecure for things like banking.

Using WhatsApp Abroad

If you only need to message or call family, WhatsApp is your best friend. It uses Wi-Fi or mobile data (not your phone plan) to send free messages, photos, and voice calls anywhere in the world.

It’s also widely used by local tour guides, hotels, and drivers — especially across Europe and Asia. Just make sure your contacts have it installed before you go.

Roaming Tips

If you prefer to stick with your current number, check your provider’s international roaming packages.

Tips:

Buy a roaming add-on before you travel — it’s far cheaper than pay-as-you-go.
Turn off automatic app updates and background data to avoid bill shock.
Use Wi-Fi for heavy data (like maps, social media, and photo uploads).

My Personal Routine

These days, I use a mix of options. I now rely on an eSIM (like Breeze) for data and calls, then use hotel Wi-Fi for big uploads, and WhatsApp for keeping in touch. After that UK SIM-card mishap, I’ll never travel without a digital backup again!

Final Thoughts

Staying connected overseas doesn’t have to be complicated. Whether you go with an eSIM, portable Wi-Fi, or just use WhatsApp on hotel networks, the key is to plan before you travel. That way, you can relax and focus on what really matters — enjoying the journey.

👉 Visit my website for links to eSIM providers and other travel tools and apps I personally use.