Our smartphones are in our hands every single day. We're so used to having typical features and apps at our fingertips that we think we've mastered them. When you travel with your smartphone, there are a few things you'll want to add, update, or change in order to use your device to its fullest potential.
10 tips for traveling with your smartphone
Turn off data roaming
Data roaming can play a huge role in unexpected charges that appear on your phone bill, especially during international travel. Data roaming occurs when a network provider is not available in a certain area and your phone connects to another in the meantime.
When you're going to an unfamiliar area, it's important to make sure that roaming is turned off because it ensures that your phone doesn't automatically connect to Wi-Fi and guards against incurring roaming-related charges.
If you turn off data roaming before your trip, it will prompt you to connect to a Wi-Fi source when trying to access the Internet. You can use this as a reminder to use free Wi-Fi in hotels, restaurants, coffee shops, and other locations.
Download the necessary applications
Depending on where your travels may take you, there are many apps to help you get around! To make sure you're not caught off guard, be sure to take the time to download all the necessary apps before you leave.
While traveling, you might get caught without reliable Wi-Fi, or need an app urgently. To relieve any excess stress, make a list of the apps you'll need and double-check that they're all downloaded before you leave.
To make it easier to locate them on your phone, create a specific travel folder so they can all be easily accessed when needed.
Buy a reliable phone case and screen protector
Buying a reliable phone case and screen protector can help ensure that your smartphone travels safely. Protecting the outside of your phone is a priority to ensure that you can use all of your essential apps and stay connected to your friends and family during your adventures.
There are many different phone security options, but I'm currently using one of them Gear4 case from ZAGG. I've had quite a few cases and love the grip on the back of this case, as well as the sleek look. It's not too bulky so I can fit it in my pocket easily, but it protects my phone really well.
34% of Gear4's iPhone cases use D3O® Bio, the world's most advanced plant protection material. D3O® Bio is made up of up to 45% renewable resources, as opposed to fossil-based resources.
I use ZAGG InvisibleShield Screen Protector. They offer five different screen saver options than traditional glass screen protection and anti-microbial options, as well as anti-glare and privacy screens. I didn't realize there are so many options when it comes to screen protectors and I love the blue light filter options!
As a global leader and innovator in screen protection, protective cases, tablet keyboards and power management solutions, ZAGG provides 360-degree protection for the devices that connect people to their world.
Knowing your smartphone is also safe will give you peace of mind to travel as much as you want. It's just one of the many benefits of device protection!
Know your plan and your phone
Understanding your phone plan can help make your trip a lot easier! Check your network provider's coverage map to see if you have phone service in the location you're traveling to. Or if any additional fees are imposed on this site.
If you're traveling internationally, see if you have an international option associated with your phone plan. If not, take time to weigh the options of paying the extra fees or purchasing an international plan through your provider versus purchasing an international SIM card when you arrive at your destination.
If you've recently updated your existing phone or recently purchased a new one, spend a little extra time learning about new features and settings that you may not be aware of. This will allow for greater ease of use and eliminate any frustration with functions working a little differently than before.
Get enough space for cloud backup
According to a recent travel survey conducted by ZAGG, 91% of people use their smartphones to take photos and videos while on vacation. Both photo and video files occupy large storage spaces on smartphones, and video files are the biggest culprit. Take the time to check your phone's current storage level and assess if you need to increase your storage space.
To increase your storage space, you can either delete files or buy more storage. This might be a good time to go through your cloud storage to organize, delete or move any unnecessary or large files and dump your old Dropbox and Google Drive content.
Put chargers in your hand luggage
We rely on our smartphones to do a lot for us while we're away from home, so making sure they stay charged and functional is key. Always make sure to pack charging cords and wall adapters as well with a reliable backup and keep them on hand.
For safety and convenience, pack your chargers in your hand luggage in case there is any kind of baggage mix-up, or if you have a chance to get a quick charge while on the way to your destination.
Bring a portable power bank with you
Investing in a power bank can be great under any circumstances, but it's even more important when you're traveling. Often times, there may not be any outlets available to charge your devices and a portable charger can give you the security of knowing that you will never be stuck with a dead battery.
The mophie power bank from ZAGG comes in many different sizes and options to suit any traveler's needs. Styles range from mini packs to power banks with holders, wallets attached, and more. They are compatible with iPhone, Google Pixel, Samsung Galaxy and other Qi-enabled devices.
I am currently using a file powerstation go rugged AC for when I go on road trips with my travel trailer. It is very compact and ideal for charging your laptop, phone and camera equipment.
It also came with jumper cables for the battery and was useful when I came home from a long trip to find that my car wouldn't start! I recommend leaving this in your car when you park your car while traveling, especially in an airport parking garage. You don't need someone to help you because the power bank actually starts your car!
Take photos and snapshots of important documents
When you reach a new destination, it may take some time to adjust to your surroundings, and your device may not automatically connect to Wi-Fi. Without an internet connection, you may not immediately be able to pull up any reservations or confirmation numbers.
Use the screenshot function on your phone to your advantage and get screenshots of all your travel and booking information, and take pictures of your license, passport, credit card, and any other important documents.
Download important information
If you're having trouble finding Wi-Fi while exploring, use Google Maps to your advantage. Google Maps allows you to pre-download maps and access them without the Internet! Download maps of routes between locations you may visit in advance in case you get caught offline during your adventure.
Plan ahead when downloading maps and beware of public Wi-Fi networks that are not password protected. Many of these scams are scams, even if the Wi-Fi network appears to be legitimate. Keep yourself and your information safe by avoiding these networks.
If you prefer to listen to certain music or podcasts while you're exploring, take the time to download them beforehand while on a trusted wireless network.
Turn on Find My Phone and Remote Wipe
Unfortunately, there is always a small possibility that you may misplace your smartphone and to increase the odds of finding it, turn on the Find My Phone option and make sure you know how to use this function and access it easily.
Since all your important documents will be saved on your phone for convenience and security, enable the remote wipe feature in case your phone falls into the hands of a stranger.
Technology can be intimidating, but it can also be your greatest tool when traveling. Taking the time to learn about the ways your smartphone can contribute to your travels will have you ready to go in no time!
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