How to set up your phone for international travel

If you are preparing for an overseas trip, you’ll need to make sure that your phone will work properly when you arrive at your destination. Setting up your phone can often fall to the bottom of your checklist, overshadowed by passports, hiking boots, and other essentials. However, having a functional phone for your destination is crucial.

On all our guided and self-guided walking trips you should carry a mobile phone with some form of connectivity that is set-up prior to the start of your trip. While our RAW Travel app uses GPS and works well in aeroplane mode, having a functional phone will assist you to locate restaurants, call hotels, check train and bus schedules, and reach emergency services if necessary.

There are many options for staying connected, including roaming plans with your current provider, local SIM cards from operators at your destination, eSIM technology, or portable Wi-Fi packages. Each option has its pros and cons, depending on your travel plans and preferences.

In this article we explore these options in detail to help you determine the best fit for your adventure. If you’re short on time, feel free to scroll to the end to see the recommendations for each RAW Travel destination.

Now, let’s start with the basics!

How does a phone work overseas?

Imagine this. You’re ready to begin your adventure. Your passport and visas are in order, you’ve sorted your accommodation, and you’ve packed a carry-on bag with all the essentials. When you arrive at your destination and pull out your phone to locate your hotel, you discover your maps app isn’t working, you can’t call a taxi because your phone line is inactive, and Google Translate won’t help you decipher the characters between the men’s and women’s restrooms. Help!

Just as you have a plan at home for making calls, sending texts, and using data, you need to organise similar services for while you are travelling overseas. Phones need data to connect to the internet, which enables web browsing, app functionality, and real-time updates. Data is crucial for using apps that require online access, like WhatsApp, which depends on an internet connection to send messages and make calls. Without data or Wi-Fi, many phone features, including web browsing and social media, will be limited.

Receiving calls and text messages are also part of “voice service” or “voice connectivity”, which includes “incoming call service” and “SMS/MMS service” for text and multimedia messages. This functionality is also part of your current plan and needs to be considered for your travels overseas.

Not all phone providers offer international service, and each country has its own local providers with varying coverage and plans. This is why setting up your phone with the right data plan and voice connectivity in advance is important for a smooth and enjoyable trip.

What kind of plan do I need?

We recommend choosing plans that include data and “voice service” or “voice connectivity”. Some plans may let you keep your current number, while others will provide you with a new number. The amount of data you need depends on how you use your device. Any activity that sends or receives information over a cellular network will consume your mobile data. Light users typically need only 1 to 3 GB per month, whereas heavy users might use that much data in just a week.

To get an idea of how much data you may need, you can check how much you currently use:

On an iPhone:

1. Go to Settings > Cellular or Settings > Mobile Data
2. Scroll down to see data consumption by each app

On an Android device:

1. Go to Settings > Connections > Data Usage
2. Tap Mobile Data Usage
3. Scroll down to view data usage by each app

eSIMs, SIM cards, Wi-Fi packages and international roaming plans

eSIMs

eSIM technology gained popularity around 2017. Unlike physical SIM cards, an eSIM is entirely digital and embedded in your device. You can download and install an eSIM plan remotely, making it a convenient option for travellers who need flexibility and easy plan adjustments on the go.

Some popular eSIM providers include Holafly, Airalo, and Orange. These companies offer custom packages and data plans tailored to various travel needs, allowing you to specify the countries you’ll visit. Setting up your eSIM is straightforward, and many providers offer 24/7 customer service for assistance with installation or any issues.

To use an eSIM, first choose a provider and purchase your plan before travelling. Once you have your plan, download the provider’s app to monitor your usage. Upon arrival at your destination, turn off your primary plan and activate your new eSIM. It will then connect to a local mobile network and serve as your primary operator. It’s that easy!

PROS: 

• User-friendly set-up
• Many plan options at different price points
• Ability to customise plan based on travel needs
• No physical SIM cards
• 24/7 customer service

CONS:

• Not all devices support eSIMs

Prepaid SIM cards / Travel SIMs

Prepaid SIM cards, also known as Travel SIMs, are small cards that you insert into your phone to connect to a mobile network. They enable you to use data, make calls, and send texts at reduced rates across many countries. You can either replace your existing SIM with a Travel SIM before you travel or upon arrival at your destination.

There are two main types of SIM cards: international and local. International SIMs are ideal for travelling across multiple countries and can be purchased online and set up before your trip. Local SIMs are best for staying in one country or travelling within the EU. These prepaid cards, available at airports, supermarkets, kiosks, and petrol stations.

If you choose a travelSIM, it’s best to research the best option based on your travel destinations and phone usage. International SIMs can be purchased online from your chosen provider’s website. Local SIMs can be bought and installed at your destination.

Fun fact! In 2019, the European Union passed the “Roaming Regulation,” which standardised mobile network technology and frequencies, ensuring compatibility and seamless use of mobile services across member states. This means that if you buy a local SIM card in one EU country, like France, it will work in other EU countries, such as Spain, without needing a new SIM card or plan. However, this compatibility does not extend to non-EU countries like Switzerland, Monaco, and some microstates. Time to brush up on your non-EU destinations!

PROS: 

• Typically cheaper than roaming plans and eSIMS. 
• Sometimes provide better coverage by using local networks.

CONS:

• Buying a local SIM card at your destination can be a hassle. 
• You’ll need to physically swap your SIM card and might encounter setup issues.

Wi-Fi packages

Wi-Fi packages are plans or bundles that offer access to Wi-Fi services, typically provided by internet service providers or rental companies. These packages vary in service type, duration, data limits, and features. These packages are rented for a specific period and include a set amount of data, often through a portable Wi-Fi device (like a pocket Wi-Fi) for the duration of your trip.

If renting a Wi-Fi device is the best option for your destination, start by choosing a recommended provider. Book your device or prepaid SIM card in advance on the provider’s website. You can usually choose between airport pickup or hotel delivery. If you select airport pickup, collect your device upon arrival; otherwise, arrange for delivery to your hotel. Confirm all details with the provider to ensure everything aligns with your travel plans. This will ensure you have seamless Wi-Fi access throughout your trip.

PROS: 

• May provide better coverage by using local networks.
• Wi-Fi packages support multiple devices simultaneously (phone, laptop, and tablet)
• Avoids the hassle of buying and swapping local SIM cards or managing eSIM accounts
• Often cheaper than international roaming plans.

CONS:

• Arranging pickup or delivery can require planning.
• You’ll need to remember to carry and manage devices on your trip.
• Some destinations may not provide Wi-Fi packages.

International roaming plans

Most phone companies allow you to use your mobile phone when travelling overseas through a service known as ‘international roaming’. This used to be the most common option for travellers who prioritised convenience over cost, relying on their home mobile carriers for global connectivity.

It’s important to note that ‘international roaming’ does not guarantee that your phone will work in every country, and it tends to be the most expensive option. For instance, while using 1 MB of data might cost just 10c in Australia, it could run up to $15.00 overseas. Additionally, you might be charged for both incoming and outgoing calls.

If you choose to go with international roaming, be sure to check with your mobile phone provider to confirm that your phone will work at your destination. Before you leave Australia, make sure you understand your provider’s charges for calls, messages, and data usage. It’s also wise to download a mobile phone usage app to monitor your spending while abroad.

PROS: 

• Use your existing local plan and keep your current phone number and plan features.

CONS:

• International roaming can be very expensive.
• Coverage and service quality is not always the best for destination.

What we recommend for RAW Travel destinations

To get you started, here’s some recommendations from our Destination Specialists. The list is not exhaustive, and you’ll need to do your own research based on your specific travel needs. For more detailed questions about phone services, devices, and capabilities, it’s best to consult the providers’ websites or contact your own phone service company.

Japan

For those with an iPhone XR or later, or a newer Android phone, using an eSIM in Japan is a convenient and effective option. eSIM Japan and AIRALO offer excellent eSIM plans that include data only or a combination of data, calls, and texts. Alternatively, you can rent a WiFi router or use a prepaid SIM card in Japan. We highly recommend pre-booking these options. Many providers offer pickup at the airport (depending on your flight arrival time) or delivery to your city hotel, so everything can be set up and ready for you upon arrival. Two reliable options to consider are Japan Wireless, known for its dependable pocket WiFi service, and Ninja WiFi, which also provides excellent service.

European Union

Some popular eSIM providers to consider are Holafly, AIRALO, and Orange. Additionally, Orange and Vodafone operate as local network providers, making them a good choice for guests who prefer to pick up a local SIM card at their destination.

Switzerland

For eSIM options, consider Holafly and AIRALO. Additionally, local providers like Swisscom and Sunrise offer extensive 5G coverage and flexible prepaid SIM plans, making them ideal choices for short visits. Please remember that the Roaming Regulation does not apply to non-EU countries, such as Switzerland. This means that if you purchase a local SIM from an EU country and travel to Switzerland, it may not work.

United Kingdom

EE (Everything Everywhere) is a major telecommunications provider in the UK, known for its extensive network coverage and high-speed internet services. It offers strong coverage in areas like the Lake District and across most of the UK, making it a reliable choice for mobile connectivity throughout the country.

New Zealand

For short trips from Australia to New Zealand, international roaming could be a convenient option. Make sure to check with your current provider to see if they offer service in New Zealand. However, for longer stays, international roaming charges can quickly add up. In such cases, it’s a good idea to explore alternatives. For eSIM options, consider Holafly and AIRALO. Additionally, 2Degrees, Vodafone, Spark, and Skinny offer SIM card packages that provide easy access to reliable local networks.