Is there a thread on using your phone overseas?

[gerrib]

I'm travelling to Italy for 19 days. I will need data for Google Maps etc and I will want to send SMS to my travel companion when I am not in the accommodation. Boost have a $50 for 5 GB for 14 days. I have a new phone so I guess I could get an eSim from one of the companies that sell roaming ones. I don't really want to get a Sim card in Italy.

 

[SYD]

General discussion on eSims here

eSims, what is your experience.

I am interested in the concept of eSims but have no experience with them. The notion of running my local sim plus having an international sim for phone use while in USA and EU could be handy. What have members experience been? TIA

www.australianfrequentflyer.com.au

Physical SIMs

Best Travel Sim card?

On our last overseas trip in 2015 I purchased an Australia Post travel sim card which I have kept active. With this sim you are allocated a Estonian (sounds like something out of Dilbert) phone number. It worked out ok but I wonder if there is a suitable alternative where you can keep your own...

www.australianfrequentflyer.com.au

Something a bit more specific

Best way to roam these days in England and Italy

The option of $10 a day for Optus is too pricey for 40 days. I used to buy a sim in Europe mostly for when there’s no wifi. That worked well. Anyone used a good plan lately for Singapore, England, Italy?

www.australianfrequentflyer.com.au

 

[Mwenenzi]

Have a look here

Australian Frequent Flyer

Tips, Tricks & Chat for the Australian Frequent Flyer

www.australianfrequentflyer.com.au

International Roaming & Internet Access

Find and receive the advice you need on communication services in your travels.

www.australianfrequentflyer.com.au

A local SIM may be the most practical low cost option.
Do you want to be able to receive calls from AU?

 

[There'sOnlyOneJimmy]

I will need data for Google Maps

If you download the maps for the areas you’re going to (either before you leave home or in wifi at Hotel, etc.), then google maps will work without an internet connection.
But note one shortcoming: while in offline mode, it can’t calculate walking directions (But can do driving directions).

 

[SYD]

HERE WeGo is a handy free app with offline maps. Not as good as the others but does the job.

‎HERE WeGo Maps & Navigation

‎Welcome to the new HERE WeGo! HERE WeGo is a free navigation app that guides local and global travelers on journeys both familiar and foreign. The app now has a fresh, new design and clearer, easier to use navigation. Enjoy a more carefree journey and reach your destination effortlessly, how…

apps.apple.com

 

[gerrib]

Thanks

 

[Michenny]

I'm travelling to Italy for 19 days. I will need data for Google Maps etc and I will want to send SMS to my travel companion when I am not in the accommodation. Boost have a $50 for 5 GB for 14 days. I have a new phone so I guess I could get an eSim from one of the companies that sell roaming ones. I don't really want to get a Sim card in Italy.

Hi , if you are with Vodafone they have a 5bucks a day for unlimited Data, i have used in numerous times and last yr i had it for 56 days and came in real handy. Driving in a camper through Ger, Italy(mountains) Spain, France and Belgie. Always had reception and used it for google maps and listening to Aussie Radio Stations whilst driving