(StatePoint) – People living in the U.S. are traveling outside of the country now more than ever. In 2016 alone, about 80.2 million Americans traveled internationally to different parts of the world.
Fortunately, your most helpful tool to make travel less stressful is right in your pocket: your smartphone. Not only does it make planning your perfect trip easier, but also your phone can keep you connected and entertained when you’re away.
Here are some tips to optimize your phone before you go:
Travel Apps
Travel apps like FlightAware, Google Maps and LoungeBuddy can keep you apprised of gate and flight changes, estimate traffic and plot travel routes and help you locate the best places to rest before your flight. There are even apps like SitOrSquat, for locating nearby bathrooms!
Maximize Storage
Cell phone cameras are more powerful than ever, and the average smartphone holds thousands of photos and videos of your cherished memories. You don’t want to run out of storage space, so get the right MicroSD card for your phone before you depart. You can also set up cloud storage services so your pictures are automatically uploaded and secured.
Check Your Plan
Some mobile plans have designated perks especially for travelers.
For example, T-Mobile ONE gives international travelers unlimited data and texting along with cheap, flat-rate calling in more than 140 countries and destinations. That means no wasting time or money searching for public Wi-Fi or purchasing an international SIM card.
Plus, since unlimited data and texting are included, you can communicate without worrying about surprise overage fees.
Also, on flights equipped with Gogo In-flight Internet, all T-Mobile ONE customers can send texts, picture messages and check Visual Voicemail in the air, and they get one hour of free internet on their smartphone – or for their entire flight with T-Mobile ONE Plus. More information is available at www.t-mobile.com/one.
The Right Accessories
When you’re playing the balancing act with your luggage, carry on, wallet and other travel gear, it’s that much easier to drop your device, so keep your smartphone safe with a screen protector and a case that’s sturdy and practical. Some cases have non-slip materials that make them easier to grip and include storage for credit cards.
Or try a PopSocket collapsible grip which doubles as a built-in stand – that’ll come in handy if you’re watching a movie on the plane or in your hotel room.
Bring Entertainment
On average, one in six flights were delayed last year, resulting in boring and stressful waits.
Head to Amazon or your app store to download some shows and movies before your trip so you can watch when Wi-Fi is unavailable, and find a few games that can be played offline, too, like UnblockMe and Plants vs. Zombies.
When you do have an internet connection, you can stream Netflix without worrying about your data on a T-Mobile ONE family plan.
With smart planning and accessories for your phone, travel becomes less stressful, and you can save yourself from racking up surprise fees for extras and overages.
