Summer travel is back and better than ever in 2024. According to research conducted by the 2024 Global Travel Trends Report, 84 percent of travelers plan to spend more or the same amount of money on travel this year compared to last. Yet, travel is becoming less about expenditures as 77 percent of people also said they care more about the travel experience than the cost of the trip. There is also a growing interest in solo travel with 69 percent of those surveyed saying they plan to travel independently this year.
“Whether you’re on a solo adventure or exploring with family and friends, your smartphone can be an indispensable travel companion,” said Brandi McCune, director of sales and operations for UScellular in New England. “From recommending useful apps to assisting in choosing budget-friendly international data plans, our tech experts are here to offer guidance and suggestions on how to make your upcoming journey both safe and memorable.”
UScellular offers the following tech tips for those who are traveling alone or with friends and family:
1. Download Maps: Did you know Google Maps offers the ability to download maps and access them offline, saving you mobile data while traveling? After you download an area, use Google Maps just like you normally would, and the offline map will guide you to your destination as long as the entire route is within the offline map. Don’t forget to invest in a portable charger like the mophie PowerStation to keep your phone charged while on-the-go as well.
2. Get a Messaging App: After taking a gondola ride through Venice or snapping a few pictures of the Grand Canyon, invite your family and friends back home to take in the sights and sounds through apps like Skype or What’s App. These apps aren’t tied to your phone number and allow you to connect securely using public Wi-Fi if you don’t want to use your mobile plan.
3. Check Your Plan: Before traveling abroad, be sure you have a plan with international options so you aren’t surprised by potential roaming costs. In addition to offering plans that include calls, text and data while traveling in Canada and Mexico, UScellular has affordable international day passes and monthly passes to meet a variety of travel needs. You can also avoid unintended data charges by turning off data roaming in your phone’s settings.
4. Secure Your Device: Before leaving, backup important data – including emergency contacts, photos, documentation and settings within your apps – to the iCloud, Google Drive, or an external storage device to prevent loss in case your phone gets lost or damaged. Also consider using a strong password, fingerprint or facial recognition to unlock your device.
5. Stay Updated on Travel Advisories: Subscribe to free apps, alerts and programs like the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program to stay informed about any emergencies, natural disasters, or security threats in your destination area.
6. Put Your Phone in US Mode: While your phone can be a vital travel tool, you may want to have uninterrupted relaxation time while on your trip. Once you reach your destination, put your phone in US Mode so you can limit notifications and enjoy your time away without distraction.
UScellular is the fourth-largest full-service wireless carrier in the United States, providing national network coverage and industry-leading innovations designed to help customers stay connected to the things that matter most. The Chicago-based carrier provides a strong, reliable network supported by the latest technology and offers a wide range of communication services that enhance consumers’ lives, increase the competitiveness of local businesses and improve the efficiency of government operations. Through its After School Access Project, the company has donated more than $23 million in hotspots and service to help youth connect to reliable internet. To learn more about UScellular, visit one of its retail stores or www.uscellular.com. To get the latest news, visit newsroom.uscellular.com.
