When picking a broadband plan for people who travel a lot, there are a lot of factors that need consideration. With the wide range of broadband options available today, trying to find a suitable option can seem daunting. However, you only need to consider a whole range of criteria. A quick broadband connection can be very helpful, allowing you to check emails, keep in touch with your family and friends, and find holiday accommodation easily and much more.
The Connection
Depending on how much internet you need, it can be more affordable to make use of data-only plans and use it for low service apps such as Facebook, Google Voice, Whatsapp and others. Relying on the hotel WIFI may not be enough when it is possible to control the amount of speed you need. While travelling, what you need is portable internet, unless you will be in a permanent holiday resort. Also, unless you plan to stay for a year or more, having a fixed broadband cannot be worth your time and money, meaning going mobile is important.
Mobile Broadband
Mobile broadband is the best option for light users who are in need of internet connection away from home or those who cannot access a fixed line service such as ADSL. The plans may range from less than 1 GB to 16 GB every month. This broadband relies on mobile phone towers, but it is not easy to tell the amount of speeds the user can expect as there are multiple variables. For a mobile broadband, speeds ranging from around 1500kbps can be considered good, but they vary depending on location. It is best for light browsing such as online banking, reading the online feed and checking emails. When shopping around for a suitable mobile broadband plan, ensure the reception is good in your area before signing up.
All providers have coverage maps that depict the signal strength available across a certain area. Signal strengths can be affected by factors such as buildings, hills and trees. It can also be affected by the rate of congestion and can be slower at certain times of the day. Make a decision on whether you will prefer a contract or a pre-paid plan. As a traveler, consider pre-paid plans as they are designed for temporary usage. You need a SIM card and a modem to access the connection. Also, the set-up fee of mobile broadband is often low, and there is no real wait time to get your connection. You only need to order one online or pick in a local store to get connected immediately. With mobile broadband, you can get cheaper packages and a large variety of benefits such as flexible payment options.
Pay-As-You-Go
A few years ago, users could pay by the megabyte for their PAYG usage. Today, however, the trend has been left to fixed broadband that is normally purchased with an already set usage limit. If you want to avoid the commitment of a contract or plan to use the internet at a minimal rate, there are several options to consider. Most providers will prefer you buy a 30-day data bundle or add-ons with a set data allowance. The good thing is that you can stop using it whenever you want without being subjected to a credit check. With PAYG, you are not tied to long-term contracts, have freedom to switch to better providers, and there is a one-off charge. So maybe Pay-as-you-go broadband could be the right way for you!
What to Choose
When you get a suitable broadband to use on your travel, the two vital questions you need to answer are: how long is the internet needed and how much of it will meet your needs? If you will only be engaged in sending emails, booking hotels and checking your social media, 1-2 GB will be enough. Alternatively, if you need it for heavier usage such as streaming Skype and uploading photos, a connection that can handle large data is necessary. Look for about 6 to 12 GB, depending on your usage. Also, consider how long you need the contract to last. If you will be away for just two weeks, for instance, a one month contract is enough. For a frequent traveler, a longer plan may be important.
Related: Low Cost Places for Digital Nomads
