A Simple Guide to Using Your Phone Abroad
Check your mobile plan
Many networks still apply higher rates when you use your phone abroad, and calls, texts, and data can add up quickly, especially if you’re streaming or using maps regularly. So, the best way to avoid any shock payments when you get home is to check your mobile plan before you go abroad. You can simply log into your account to check the details of your plan and find out what you’ll be charged for using your phone abroad.
Many providers offer short-term travel passes or add-ons that can help to reduce costs. These can include daily roaming bundles, discounted call minutes, or data allowances for specific regions. Buying one before you leave will usually be much cheaper than paying standard rates once you arrive, so it can be worthwhile to see what your provider has available.
Weigh up roaming vs local SIM cards
Roaming lets you use your home mobile plan while travelling abroad, so your phone works much like it does at home. It can often be the simplest option if you’re only away for a short trip. It saves the hassle of swapping SIMs and means you can keep your usual number, which is useful if people at home need to reach you. However, it’s not always the most cost-effective choice, especially if you plan to use a lot of data.
Getting a local SIM card can often be better value if you’re staying longer or expect to be online a lot. Many destinations sell prepaid SIMs at airports or convenience stores, which will give you access to local rates for calls, texts and data. It might mean putting in a little extra setup, but the savings can be significant, particularly in regions with high roaming charges.
Consider eSIMs for easier setup
An eSIM is a digital version of a SIM card that’s already built into your phone. Instead of buying a physical card, you can activate a mobile plan simply by scanning a QR code or downloading a profile from a provider. Many networks now sell short-term eSIM packages online, which means you can set everything up before you leave home and have service as soon as you land.
eSIMs can make life much easier for people who travel regularly. You can store more than one plan on your phone and switch between them in your settings, so there’s no need to carry multiple SIMs or worry about losing the tiny plastic cards. This can be particularly handy if you split your time between countries, or if you want to keep your home number active while also using a local data plan.
Another benefit of eSIMs is that they are often available from international providers who specialise in travel. These companies can provide data bundles that cover different countries or whole regions, so you don’t need to buy a new SIM every time you cross a border. For anyone who relies on their phone for maps, bookings, or staying in touch, that convenience can be a real time-saver.
You can find out more in our guide on how to safely use an eSIM for travel.
Keep your phone charged on the go
Running out of battery when you’re abroad can be a huge inconvenience, leaving you without maps, translations, or boarding passes when you need them. So, planning ahead for how you’ll keep your phone powered is just as important as managing your data.
Different countries use different plug types and voltage levels, so it’s worth checking what’s used at your destination. A universal travel adaptor can be a simple investment – it will typically cover most regions and should mean you’ll always be able to plug in and power up. Some will also include multiple USB ports so you can charge a number of devices at once.
It’s also smart to carry a portable power bank when you travel. Your battery can drain quickly when you’re spending long days exploring, and having a backup charger means you won’t be stuck hunting for a socket in a café or airport.
Your phone itself can also help to keep you powered up abroad. If your phone supports fast charging, such as Motorola TurboPower, or has a larger battery, that can reduce the number of times you need to top up and give you extra peace of mind on the move.
What to do if your phone doesn’t work abroad
Even with careful planning, your phone might not always work as you need it to when you travel. Knowing the steps to take can prevent frustration and keep you connected.
Unlock your device if needed
If your phone is locked to your home network, you won’t be able to use a local SIM without unlocking it. You can contact your provider in advance to unlock your device – most providers will do this once you’ve met your contract requirements. This will give you the freedom to switch SIMs or activate an eSIM when you arrive.
Keep your phone charged
Having poor signal or constantly searching for a network can drain your battery faster than usual. You can carry a portable power bank to avoid running out of power. You should also make sure you have the correct adaptor for local sockets. Phones with long battery life or fast charging make this easier, but having a backup ensures you’re never caught off guard.
Troubleshoot basic issues
If your phone still isn’t connecting, you can try restarting it or toggling airplane mode on and off. Also, double-check that mobile data and roaming settings are enabled. Sometimes, switching to 3G instead of 4G can help if you’re in an area with weaker coverage.
Plan smarter with moto ai
Planning a trip can be exciting, but it can often feel overwhelming., That’s where moto ai comes in. Available on the latest motorola razr 60, motorola edge 60, moto g86 and moto g86 power devices, it’s designed to act as a built-in travel companion, helping you stay organised and make the most of your holiday.
With features like Next Move, you can turn inspiration into real plans with tailored suggestions for hotels, attractions and activities wherever you are. Remember This keeps track of your screenshots, links and notes so you don’t waste time searching through your phone when you need to find that booking confirmation or restaurant recommendation. With Update Me, you can check key updates with just a glance, meaning less scrolling and more time enjoying the moment.
Moto ai also works hand-in-hand with partners like Perplexity, Microsoft Copilot and Meta-Llama, giving you quick answers to questions, help with last-minute bookings, and even offline access to notifications when you are out exploring. Plus, with Motorola’s Smart Connect ecosystem, you can travel lighter, knowing essentials like boarding passes saved on another device can still be pulled up on your phone when you need them.
Final checklist before you fly
Before you head to the airport, a few simple steps can help ensure your phone works smoothly abroad and stays powered throughout your trip:
- Check your mobile plan for roaming charges or international add-ons
- Decide whether roaming, a local SIM, or an eSIM is best for your trip
- Make sure your phone is unlocked if needed
- Pack a universal travel adaptor for charging
- Bring a portable power bank for on-the-go charging
- Make a note of emergency contacts and download any important apps you’ll need offline
- Enable any necessary settings like mobile data, roaming, or airplane mode toggle options
