International internet: How and where to get it

When you have the opportunity to travel to different places around the world, for work or leisure. It’s important to know how you can remain connected to the internet. Whether it’s to keep in touch, to search for a particular website, or if you want to post something on social media. Staying connected to the international internet is a must at any time.

Therefore, in this article, we will discuss the features of some alternatives that allow you to access the internet whenever and wherever you need it. We will talk about roaming, SIM cards, virtual cards, and Pocket WiFi.

Some options for connecting to the internet abroad

As we mentioned at the beginning, there are alternatives that allow you to connect to the internet wherever and whenever you need it. Each one has its own characteristics that adapt to the needs and budget of each traveler. In addition, they depend on the connectivity conditions of the destination you are traveling to and what each operator offers.

Roaming

This is the most popular option to get an internet connection internationally with your domestic data plan. It refers to connecting to another network other than the one you generally use at home, when traveling abroad. In other words, it is when you leave your home country and connect to the cellular network of an operator other than the one your smartphone works with. 

Although in most of Europe it is a free service. In other continents it is not, it is also one of the most expensive services for staying connected to the internet. Often, it is even recommended that you deactivate roaming. So that you don’t incur extra costs or surprise bills when traveling abroad.

Pocket WiFi

One option to avoid roaming overcharges is pocket WiFi. It is a small portable device that provides you with an international internet connection. So, you can connect anywhere and share the internet with other smartphones or tablets. As handy as these devices can be, they are usually very expensive and will definitely affect your travel budget.

Free public WiFi

If you can’t afford a pocket WiFi, a SIM card, or an eSIM, what you can do is connect your smartphone to public WiFi networks. You can find them in public spaces or commercial establishments. They are often an alternative for cellular data for many travelers looking for internet abroad.

However, opting to connect to public WiFi networks is not advisable. Because in most cases you have to share private data such as passwords or activation codes. But if you insist on connecting to a free WiFi network you should be aware:

• You can get internet in bars, restaurants or some popular shops. But most likely you will have to buy or order something in these places to get the password to the network.
• Recently in the Facebook application, there is an option that allows you to locate free WiFi networks wherever you are.
• You can use applications such as Instabridge. Which scans the area where you are and shows you public WiFi networks that you can access without using a password.

SIM card, an option to enjoy full-speed mobile data

The SIM card is a detachable smart device used in cellphones and tablets that are connected via a SIM reader slot or SIM reader. In these tiny devices, the service key of the subscriber of a particular internet or cellular phone operator is securely stored in order to identify him or herself to the network. This makes it possible to change the customer’s subscription from one handset to another by simply exchanging this card.

One of the best examples of the advantages of this type of device is the SIM card offered in Holafly’s online shop. Firstly, it has been consolidating itself as an alternative to the high costs of roaming activation once the traveler leaves the country. 

In addition, due to its ease of purchase, technical support, and the possibility of keeping your number and receiving free calls. It is one of the favorite options for frequent travelers who require a permanent international internet connection.

eSIM card, a good alternative that is positioning itself for frequent travelers

An eSIM, or virtual data card, is a device implanted in the hardware of cellphones with state-of-the-art technology. It has a great advantage in that it does not require physical installation. Like the SIM cards, we talked about earlier. It is also activated by scanning a QR code for cellular data configuration.

This product is also part of Holafly’s range of overseas internet connection solutions. The eSIM sold by Holafly in its online shop has several benefits. It is also ideal for travelers like you, who are likely to spend just a few days at a destination. If your cellphone is compatible with the eSIM of this company, the advantages you will get are:

• The possibility of using the eSIM and the physical SIM card simultaneously if you need both devices.
• Easy setup and activation.
• Share data with more devices or more people.
• Fast and secure online purchase.
• Technical support via chat in their online shop 24 hours a day. In addition, they communicate with you by email and phone line in English.
• You continue with your WhatsApp number in Spanish.
• The best coverage in the country you visit because they only work with the best cellular operators to guarantee connection as a local operator.
• You only pay for the purchase of your SIM with no additional costs or unexpected bills.
• Free delivery to your home or workplace.
• No complicated small print clauses.

Frequently asked questions about International internet

Remember that the most important thing to know when connecting to the internet abroad is that you do not expose your data or sensitive personal information. Make sure that you purchase your international SIM card from a company that offers you as many guarantees as possible, such as Holafly.