Beyond Esim: 7 ways to prepare your cellphone for international use

Get ready to travel abroad? Don’t forget to prepare your cellphone before you leave. International trips bring extraordinary experience, but still connected can quickly become stressed and expensive if you don’t plan ahead.

This is how to make sure your cellphone is ready to use smoothly when you explore new places.

1. Check your international operator option

Start by contacting your cellular provider. Most operators offer international roaming plans, but their costs and scope vary greatly. Some offer daily tickets, while others provide monthly international plans.

Ask about data limits, setting text and call prices, and countries included in the plan. If the cost looks too high, consider using different options, such as a local SIM card or ESIM.

2. Make sure your phone is not locked

If you want to use a foreign SIM card, your cellphone needs to be opened. Contact your operator to confirm whether your device is locked to their network. If so, ask if they can open it.

Many providers will unlock your cellphone after you pay it off or meet your contract. Unlocked mobile phones give you more flexibility when choosing local or international plans.

3. Explore a local SIM card or ESIMS

Buying a local SIM card often gives you a better rate for data and calls when abroad. You will find it at airports, cellular shops, and all -round shops. Be sure to bring your passport, because some countries need an ID to buy a SIM.

We highly recommend using ESIM from an online provider that allows you to switch the country without paying additional numbers or changes. Examples of the top options include Holafly and Alosim.

New mobile phones also support ESIMS, which you can download online before your trip. These options save money and let you use your cellphone like local.

4. Prepare a Wi-Fi call and message application

To reduce your need for cell connections, rely on Wi-Fi if possible. Download applications such as WhatsApp, Signal, or Telegram for SMS and call Wi-Fi. Activate Wi-Fi calls in your telephone settings if your operator supports it.

This feature allows you to make calls using any Wi-Fi network instead of relying on expensive roaming costs.

5. Download maps and travel tools first

Avoid international data costs by downloading offline maps using applications like Google Maps or Maps.me. You can also store translation tools, currency converters, and direct travel guidelines to your cellphone.

Prepare your digital tool before taking off to navigate and communicate even without a strong connection.

6. Pack proper accessories

Don’t forget your charging equipment. Bring a universal power adapter that works with outlets in your destination country. Consider packaging portable chargers as well, especially if you are going to spend a long time to sightseeing.

If you use a local eSIM, you might need a SIM tool or a paper pinch to open your SIM tray.

7. Turn off the unnecessary background data

Before your flight, adjust your phone settings to avoid surprise fees. Turn off the automatic application update and limit the use of background data.

You can do this in your mobile settings by activating low data mode or switching to airplane mode until you are connected to Wi-Fi.

Stay connected, an intelligent way

Traveling internationally does not mean you have to lose contact with home or break the bank at data fees. By preparing your cellphone before the trip, you will stay connected, save money, and focus on the adventure in front.

If you are not sure whether your cellphone supports international features or needs help to manage it, stop by the lab. We will make sure your device is ready to travel when you are.

Our hour

Monday: 10:00 – 17:00

Tuesday: 10:00 – 17:00

Wednesday: Close

Thursday: 10:00 – 17:00

Friday: 10:00 – 19:00

Saturday: 10 am-2 in the afternoon

Week: Close