While traveling abroad, my phone is my constant companion for all kinds of tasks—like navigation, communication, capturing memories, or accessing important documents. So, I take the time to ensure it’s fully prepared for the trip before I leave the house.
1
Making Sure My SIM Works Abroad
My phone wouldn’t be much use without network connectivity and mobile data, especially when I’m navigating unfamiliar places. So, one of the first things I do is contact my cell carrier to confirm whether my current plan includes international roaming or if I need to add a travel package for my destination. This is the most convenient option for me, as it allows me to keep my number and avoid the hassle of swapping SIM cards.
However, if the roaming fees are too high for the place I’m visiting, I usually opt for a local SIM card instead. These are typically easy to find at almost all international airports, but I make sure to research the best options before I arrive. Since my phone is not carrier-locked, I can easily switch SIM cards and be ready. That said, it’s also possible to use a carrier-locked phone overseas by contacting the carrier.
2
Double-Checking That “Find My Device” Is Ready
Losing a smartphone is already a stressful experience, but it can feel even worse if I’m abroad, where I might not have easy access to local resources or support. That’s why I always ensure that “Find My Device” is fully set up and working before I travel. It’s quick and easy to do on my Android through Google’s Find My Device app.
This isn’t just useful for tracking a lost or stolen phone—it provides much more peace of mind. If something goes wrong, I can remotely disable my phone and prevent anyone from accessing my personal information.
I can even wipe all my data from afar, which is crucial for protecting my privacy in case the worst happens. This small step doesn’t take much time, but it offers significant reassurance.
3
Downloading Essential Travel Apps
While traveling, I rely on specific apps that I don’t usually keep on my phone. This includes travel-related apps like Skyscanner or Priceline for easy access to flights and accommodations. I also add a reliable currency converter app, which is essential for quickly calculating exchange rates and managing my spending.
To keep my itinerary organized, I use TripIt. This app consolidates all my travel details, from flight information to hotel bookings and activities, into one easily accessible place.
These apps are my go-to travel apps, but depending on my destination and the type of trip, I may add a few more. Having them preloaded helps me stay prepared, avoid last-minute downloads, and ensure I have all the tools I need for a smooth, stress-free trip.
Regardless of whether I’m traveling alone or have company, I like to keep my phone well-stocked with media for the journey. Before I leave, I pre-download everything I might need for offline use—movies, TV shows, music, eBooks, and podcasts.
Fortunately, apps like Netflix, Spotify, and Audible make it straightforward to download content for offline use. I typically choose a mix of entertainment that suits different moods. This ensures I have a wide variety of media to enjoy while traveling.
5
Freeing Up Storage Space
As someone who loves documenting travel experiences through photos and videos, I know firsthand how quickly my phone’s storage fills up. When traveling, I want to be ready to capture every spontaneous moment and every breathtaking view without worrying about running out of space.
Additionally, a cluttered phone can slow it down, making it harder to use essential apps or access information quickly. To avoid all of this, I always take steps to free up my phone’s storage ahead of time. It only takes a few minutes and is one less thing to worry about while traveling!
6
Preparing the Phone Battery to Last Longer
One of the most crucial things I’ve learned over the years is how important it is to ensure my phone’s battery lasts as long as possible. That’s because access to charging points isn’t always guaranteed or convenient, and the last thing I want is for my phone’s battery to die when I need it the most.
In addition to carrying a power bank, I also take steps to extend my phone’s battery life during travel. This includes everything from restricting background activities of battery-draining apps to disabling unnecessary features like the always-on display and “Hey Google” voice detection. Doing all of this ensures my phone lasts all day without needing to charge it again.
7
Setting Up a Reliable VPN
Using public Wi-Fi networks in airports, cafes, or hotels is a great way to save expensive mobile data while traveling. However, there’s always the risk of privacy breaches when connecting to these networks. That’s why I always make sure to set up a reliable VPN (Virtual Private Network) before I travel internationally.
A VPN helps encrypt my internet traffic, making it nearly impossible for hackers or malicious third parties to intercept my data. This not only protects my sensitive information—such as passwords, banking details, and work emails—but also ensures I can access websites and apps without geographical restrictions.
Having this extra layer of security gives me peace of mind, knowing my data is safe from prying eyes while I navigate the internet in unfamiliar places.
8
Backing Up My Phone
Ideally, I shouldn’t need to back up my phone before an international trip, but I prefer to do it anyway just to be safe. After all, losing access to my data could be a bigger hassle than usual.
I always make sure all my documents, photos, and videos are saved in the cloud. This way, I don’t have to worry about losing precious memories or files while traveling. Additionally, I like to back up my contacts, messages, and app data. It’s reassuring to know that, even if something happens to my phone, I can recover these files on another device.
There’s no denying that preparing my phone for an international trip takes a little effort, but it’s definitely worth the convenience it provides. From ensuring I have the right apps and storage space to securing my connectivity options, every step helps me stay connected and prepared. With everything in place, I can fully enjoy my travels and keep my phone ready for any situation.
