Have you chalked out your entire plan for an overseas trip but are not sure how to stay connected with family members when abroad? Do you want to know what strategies can help you maintain a connection while travelling to an international destination?
Worry not, as we have got you covered with this detailed guide on different ways to remain connected with loved ones, including opting for travel SIM cards, tips to prevent data breaches, etc.
Continue reading to know the different ways in which you can keep your family updated wherever you go.
7 Effective Strategies to Stay Connected While Travelling Overseas
Planning is the key to making your trip a success, and like other aspects of travel, you must plan ahead to find ways to stay in touch with your family when abroad.
Here are 7 practical tips that will ensure you keep your family updated wherever you go during your overseas travel.
1. Keep Your Phone Active All the Time
The quickest way to communicate with you is through your mobile phone. Therefore, you must ensure that your phone stays active even when overseas. Inform your phone service provider about your upcoming overseas trip. Since the rules differ from one service provider to another, you may have to purchase an international SIM card before your trip.
Also, since the voltages and electrical outlets vary from country to country, you should be equipped with the right surge protector and adapter for your phone's charger and other electronic devices.
2. Leave Behind a Copy of Contact Details at Home
Whether or not you have prepared an itinerary for your trip, make a draft of all the places that you intend to visit and how your family can contact you when you are visiting these places.
Additionally, provide contact details of all the accommodations and organised tours you have booked during your travel. Hand over a copy of your draft itinerary to your family members before you head out for your vacation.
3. Carry Necessary Documents Wherever You Go
Make sure to carry the following documents, either online or in your baggage, that will go with you everywhere you travel:
Photocopies of your visa and passport details, two extra passport-size photos and alternative photo identity proof.
A printed copy containing contact details of the Indian Consulate in those countries that you will be visiting.
Policy information and contact details of your insurer. If you are travelling to Europe, your
Schengen travel insurance will keep you financially protected when you face unexpected circumstances, so carry a copy of that policy with you throughout your trip.
Contact details related to cancelling your credit/debit card or bank account.
Next of kin's details so that they can be contacted if there is an emergency.
Details of your healthcare provider, like your doctor, especially if you require injections or medications at the time of travel.
You should also leave a copy of these documents at home and send a copy via email to yourself.
4. Registering with the Department of Foreign Affairs is a Must
If you are visiting one country for your vacation, you should ensure that you are registered with that nation's Department of Foreign Affairs. This will help them communicate with you if there is any need. Moreover, you should register your trip's details with the Indian consulate in that nation.
5. Connect with Family via Text Messages and Emails
If your international roaming charges are high, you can use message apps like WhatsApp to let your family know where you are. Also, sending an email once in a while can give your family a better understanding of where you are and which place you intend to visit next.
If you are travelling to a country that does not give you access to the internet, you have to purchase a local SIM to keep in touch with your family members.
6. Opt for Social Media Updates
You can use social media apps to give an update on your location, but it could be risky to share such information in real time. It is recommended that you share your travel updates once you have moved out of that place.
7. Share Your Destination Location With Family
A good way to let your loved ones know where you are going is by downloading the map of where you intend to go and sending it from your place of accommodation. This way, you, too, will have access to the map in case your internet connection is not available at the time of travel.
How to Access the Internet When Abroad
Here are some of the options that you can choose from to access the internet while travelling overseas.
Opt for Data Roaming Facility
Your SIM card for international travel includes the data roaming facility, but it could be expensive to use this feature overseas. Talking to your network provider can help you find the most cost-effective plan to use when abroad.
Purchase a Local SIM Card
Local SIM cards come with local numbers that can help you to make local calls and for other purposes. Investing in a local SIM card is reliable, as you get direct access to the local network, but it can be a costly affair to purchase it. Make sure that you purchase this card only from reliable providers, and carry your identity proof while shopping for a local SIM card.
Access Public Wi-Fi Judiciously
While the Wi-Fi network that is available to the public is free of charge, you should be careful when using this network for internet access. Wi-Fi is generally free at airports, cafes, hotels and public places, but it comes with the risk of data breach when you use this network.
Moreover, it is not a good idea to rely solely on a public Wi-Fi network for internet connection, as it may not be available everywhere you travel. Keep a backup source for internet access that can be used during an emergency.
Consider using an international SIM card with unlimited data for your travel, especially if you need an internet connection throughout your trip duration. That way, you can access the internet without having to depend on other network options, which may be a risky affair.
4 Useful Tips to Keep Data Secured While Accessing Internet Abroad
Keep Your Phone Updated - Before leaving for an international destination, ensure to keep your phone's hardware and software updated. This will keep your device secure no matter which network you access for internet connection.
Exercise Discretion While Communicating - Try not to send any sensitive information via email. There is no guarantee that even when your connection is secure, an outside party cannot access your information.
Get Familiar with Hacking Signs - There are warning signs for an account being hacked. Familiarise yourself with these signs so that you can recognise early signs of compromise, and control this damage as quickly as you can.
Keep Your Device Locked - Your phone should always be locked when not in use. This will prevent your phone from being vulnerable or easily accessible to burglars. Keeping your device secure is one of the crucial ways to defend yourself when travelling abroad.
Use Travel Insurance to Stay Protected While Travelling Abroad
Staying connected is necessary, but staying protected during your overseas travel is equally important. You cannot underestimate the need for travel protection, especially when you have connecting flights to board in unknown countries. Unanticipated situations like losing your baggage or passport, missing your connecting flight or even meeting with an accident can ruin your holiday experience.
However, with an
international travel insurance policy from Reliance General Insurance, you no longer have to be concerned about being financially strained when you encounter an unexpected situation at the time of travel. Our insurance coverage offers you respite from the overbearing costs of receiving medical care for sudden illness or injuries due to a mishap in a foreign country and. It also provides you financial coverage in trip-related incidents like loss of passport or baggage and trip cancellations.
Apart from this, our plans are country-specific, which provides you the benefit of selecting the plan that best meets your requirements. To choose the most beneficial travel insurance coverage plan for your next international travel you can have a look at our website.
Conclusion
While taking a break from your mundane life is good for you, it is advisable to not disconnect yourself completely from your loved ones. These tips and strategies will help you remain in touch with your family on your overseas trip. Also, with the advantages that an insurance policy for international travel offers, getting insured is the best way to travel abroad safely.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get seamless access to social media platforms anywhere I travel?
No, there are countries that block you from accessing social media platforms like Whatsapp, Facebook, Instagram, etc. Make sure that you find out if you require a VPN for accessing these communication apps.
Why is international travel insurance crucial when travelling abroad?
Travelling overseas comes with risks like medical emergencies or loss of property. It can be costly to avail yourself of medical facilities, and retrieving lost personal belongings can leave you confused and stressed out. With this insurance policy, you are covered financially, and your travel-related problems are solved without you having to break a sweat, which is why you should invest in this insurance coverage.