5 Ways to Save Mobile Data While Traveling: Tips for Android Devices
Traveling with a prepaid eSIM and worried about running out of data? These five Android tips will help you use less mobile data, so your plan lasts longer. By changing a few settings, you can reduce data consumption and save on top-ups or new eSIMs.
Summary: How to Save eSIM Data on Android
Turn on data saver mode to stop background data usage
Download Google Maps to use offline mode
Prevent apps from updating using your mobile data plan
Set alerts to track how much data you use
Use data saver in Spotify
💡 If you don't know where to adjust these settings, read the rest of the article. We explain everything step-by-step.
Note: We show steps for Google Pixel phones. Samsung and other Android devices may have similar settings but with different names.
1. Turn On Data Saver Mode
Your apps use mobile data in the background, even when you don't open them. The good news is that Android phones come with a built-in feature that helps reduce unnecessary background data usage.
⚙️ Learn how to enable Data Saver:
Open Settings > Network & Internet > Tap Data Saver
Turn on Use Data Saver
Tap Unrestricted mobile data to pick which specific apps can still use data freely
Which apps should you allow to use data in the background?
Avoid disabling background app refresh for system apps that appear by default on the unrestricted list. They help your phone run properly.
It is generally advised to allow banking apps to refresh in the background as they send alerts concerning security.
Think of any apps that are related to security and finances - you want them to operate without any restrictions.
When data saver is on, most apps only use mobile data when you open them. This simple switch can significantly reduce mobile data usage.
2. Download Google Maps for Offline Use
Google Maps doesn’t just show directions. It loads images, ratings, opening hours, and traffic info, which can use extra data. If you just need to get from point A to B, you can use offline maps and save cellular data on loading all these extra elements.
Open Google Maps and search for your destination or tap and hold to drop a pin
Tap "X" in the search bar to see your profile picture
Tap Offline Maps > Select your own map
Adjust the area size - you will see the place you searched for or where you dropped a pin
Tap Download
How to use offline maps:
When you need directions, turn on airplane mode. Google Maps will use your saved maps automatically.
Remember that offline maps work great for basic directions. You won't get live traffic updates, but you'll significantly reduce data usage.
3. Don't Allow Google Play to Use Mobile Data for Updates
Most likely, Google Play Store updates all your apps automatically. You don't know when and how - over Wi-Fi or mobile data. While this automatic update is very convenient at home, you may want to limit it when using prepaid eSIM data.
Without warning, app updates can burn through too much data from your precious plan. These steps help you prevent that:
Open Google Play Store > tap your profile picture
Go to Settings > Network preferences > Tap Auto-update apps
Select Update over Wi-Fi only
Now your apps only update when you connect to a Wi-Fi network. After your trip, you can switch back to automatic updates over Wi-Fi or mobile data.
4. Set Data Alerts to Track Usage
If you set a data usage warning, you won't be surprised by your data plan ending without notice. Besides, you will better understand how much data you use for your usual online activities. This may help you select eSIMs for your future international trips.
Go to Settings > Network & internet > Tap SIMs
Tap your Travel eSIM > Go to Data warning & limit > Set data warning
Tap Data warning and enter GB limit > Tap Set to confirm
Example: If you have an eSIM with 10GB, you can set a warning to 5GB, so you know when you've used half of your data package.
✨ If you use WonderConnect eSIM, you will get notifications when you have 50% and 20% of your data left. You can always check data usage in the mobile app or using your web account.
5. Use Data Saving in Spotify
If you can't imagine sightseeing without your headphones on, this tip is for you. Spotify now offers way more than music: videos, images, story-like formats... This extra content uses more data to load. And streaming quality may also cause your data plan to shrink faster.
You can use the built-in Data Saver to enjoy your eSIM data for longer.
Open Spotify and tap your profile picture
Go to Settings and privacy, then tap Data-saving and offline
Turn on Data Saver
Data saving mode uses less data for streaming. It slightly lowers music quality but can cut your data usage by half or more.
😌 Don't Stress Over Losing Connection
Running out of mobile data while traveling is stressful. You might need maps, translation tools, or messaging apps to stay in touch. These five simple settings take just a few minutes to set up but can double how long your data plan lasts.
If you're planning an international trip, make sure your travel eSIM comes with top-up options. The ability to buy more data anytime you need it guarantees peace of mind. At WonderConnect, you can find several top-up sizes for all destinations. The extra data starts working right away, or you can even top up the eSIM in advance when you see your data plan coming to the limit.
Check if we have eSIMs for your next destination!
Need tips for iPhone users? We have an article about saving data on iPhones too.
