Choosing a travel SIM card is actually not difficult. As long as you grasp a few key points, you can easily pick out the right card for you. Let me teach you how to choose, so you can have a better time abroad and surf the Internet smoothly.
1. Daily traffic limit
Many travel SIM cards have packages with daily traffic limits, such as 2GB of traffic per day . This amount of data is sufficient to meet most Internet needs, such as using map navigation, searching for information, browsing Facebook, Instagram, and even watching YouTube videos. If you don't keep it turned on all the time, 2GB can basically support your daily use. But if you always keep your phone in your hand, or often need to make video calls or watch high-definition videos, then you should consider choosing a plan with a higher data limit.
2. After using up the data, the speed will be limited and unlimited use will be allowed
This is a very important point when choosing a SIM card. After many cards have used up the designated GB of high-speed traffic, they will switch to unlimited use at a limited speed, usually 256kbps or lower. Although the speed will be slower, it can still meet basic Internet needs, such as sending messages and checking maps. The advantage of unlimited use with limited speed is that even if you use the designated high-speed data, you can still surf the Internet, but the speed will be slower, but it is still enough to send WhatsApp, look at maps or search for information. When choosing a card, remember to confirm whether the card will have a speed limit and unlimited usage function after the data is used up, so that even if you use high-speed data, you will not be completely disconnected from the Internet.
3. Price and validity period
When picking a card, price and validity period are factors to consider.
price
Choose according to your own budget and find a card with high cost performance. The prices of different SIM cards will vary. Usually the price will vary according to the daily data limit, total data usage, network speed , validity period and number of countries covered. It is recommended that you first determine your usage needs and then choose according to your budget. Remember not to just look at the price, but also look at the cost-effectiveness. Choosing a card that meets your needs is the most important thing.
Validity
Make sure the card is valid for your entire travel period. Don’t let it expire before you have used up all your money, which would be very troublesome. Some cards are charged on a daily basis, while others have a fixed validity period, such as 7, 14 or 30 days. You need to choose a card with an appropriate validity period based on the length of your trip. It is best to reserve an extra day or two in case your itinerary changes.
4. Understand network speed requirements: 4G, 4.5G, 5G
4G speed
4G network speed can already meet most Internet needs and is suitable for daily use such as searching for information, viewing maps, and browsing social media. If you mainly use it to send WhatsApp, read news, search online and do some light social media usage, 4G is more than enough for you.
4.5G network speed
4.5G is a technology between 4G and 5G. It is faster than 4G but not as fast as 5G. If you watch high-definition videos or need faster download speeds, 4.5G would be a good choice. Compared to 4G, the increased speed of 4.5G allows you to enjoy a smoother Internet experience.
5G speed
5G is the fastest internet speed available today and is suitable for activities that require large bandwidth, such as 4K video, live streaming or gaming. If you want the best Internet experience, 5G is the best choice. But please note that not all places have 5G coverage, so you need to first understand the 5G network status of your destination.
5. Confirm where you are going
First, you need to find out whether the country you are going to supports the SIM card you choose. Generally, websites that sell travel SIM cards will have a list of countries where they can be used. You can check first to make sure the card has good network coverage and stable signals at your destination. If you are going to visit more than one country, it is recommended that you choose a SIM card that covers multiple countries , so that you can avoid the trouble of changing cards.
6. Other functions are the same as services
Some SIM cards come with additional features, such as free international calls or text messages, so you can contact your family and friends more conveniently. Some cards can be used in multiple countries, which is especially convenient for friends who travel internationally. In addition to the basic Internet function, you can pay attention to whether there are other additional services, such as:
- Free international calls or text messages : These features can make it easier for you to contact family and friends, especially when you go to places without WiFi.
- Multi-country coverage : If your itinerary involves multiple countries, choosing a SIM card with multi-country coverage can save you the trouble of changing cards and make it more convenient to stay connected.
- Hotspot sharing : Some cards support hotspot sharing function, which can share the network with other devices. It is suitable for a family or multiple devices that need to access the Internet.
Summarize
Choosing a travel SIM card is not difficult. As long as you consider your destination, internet speed requirements, daily data limit, unlimited use after using up the data, price and validity period, you can pick the card that suits you best. I hope these tips can help you easily pick a suitable travel SIM card, so that your trip will be smoother and more enjoyable. If you have any other questions, feel free to leave me a message!