How to Stay Online Abroad: Tips for Using Local Prepaid SIM Cards
As a location-independent worker, staying connected while on the move is crucial for me. Simply relying on Wi-Fi at hostels or cafes often isn’t enough, especially when I need to navigate unfamiliar places or access important apps. There have been times when having a local phone number and data plan made all the difference—like when my laptop unexpectedly broke down and I had to work and research using only my smartphone.
If staying connected to the internet while traveling is a priority for you, the smartest and most economical option is to purchase a local prepaid SIM card. These are significantly cheaper than international roaming services provided by your home network or global SIM cards. Here are a few examples of data plans I’ve used:
- Australia (Amaysim): 1GB for AUD 9.90 per month, SIM card priced at AUD 5.00.
- Norway (Netcom): 100MB for 10 NOK per day, SIM card available at 29 NOK (with 30 NOK preloaded).
- Germany (ALDI Talk): 1.5GB for €9.99 per month, SIM card priced at €12.99 (with €10 preloaded).
Most of these prepaid data services allow tethering to your laptop, so you can stay connected on multiple devices. And while your data speed may slow down after you hit the usage limit, you’re rarely cut off entirely.
Should You Add Call and SMS Credit?
In my experience, I’ve rarely had to purchase additional call or SMS credit beyond what’s initially included with the SIM card. With a 3G or 4G network, you can easily make calls and send texts over the Internet through apps like Skype or WhatsApp, often at much cheaper rates than using the local telecom services. In fact, I’ve found that the call quality on Skype and imo was even better over a 3G connection than it was using public Wi-Fi.
How to Get a Prepaid SIM Card with Data Abroad
Before heading to your destination, it’s a good idea to do some research on the available options for prepaid SIM cards with data. Useful resources like the Prepaid SIM with Data Wiki and the APN Changer and Data SIM Guide provide regularly updated information on the best SIM card options in each country. These guides can also help you navigate potential obstacles like language barriers or local regulations—such as registration requirements in countries like Turkey and Norway before you can access the local network.
Troubleshooting Connectivity Issues
Sometimes, even after careful preparation, things don’t go as smoothly as planned. Maybe the prepaid data ends up costing more than you expected, or your phone refuses to connect to the network. If that happens, don’t panic. It’s important to remember that you’ll still have access to Wi-Fi, and missing out on an Internet connection won’t ruin your trip.
Staying connected while traveling is important, but it doesn’t have to be stressful. With the right local prepaid SIM card, you can access affordable data, make calls, and ensure you never miss a beat—whether you’re working remotely or exploring a new city.