Ways to stay connected while travelling
Keeping in touch with your loved ones can be difficult at the best of times — but it doesn’t have to be.
Staying connected while travelling comes with a unique set of challenges. Between balancing your personal itinerary and the schedules of those closest to you, the realities of communicating in real-time might seem harsh.
Thankfully, there is an abundance of apps that make connectivity easy — the only trouble is deciding which suits you best.
It’s probably best we start with the app that most users would be familiar with — WhatsApp.
Chances are, you’ve had this ever-reliable messaging service installed on your device at some point (if not already), so let’s start from the top.
All messages sent on WhatsApp are covered by its end-to-end encryption, which keeps your messages secured safely and away from prying eyes, including from WhatsApp itself.
In terms of its usability, WhatsApp holds its own with the best, allowing users to make unlimited calls, send free app-to-app messages, as well as group texting and video calls. The quality of calls does rely heavily on a strong internet connection, which also plays a factor in your quality of video.
Got a sweet video of a bungee jump that you want to share? You’ll have no problems file sharing as the app has a max capacity of 100MB per file.
There’s nothing quite as confusing as a disjointed group text. More often than not, that essay you sent about Christmas dinner has gone to all seven of your family members separately.
Enter the aptly titled GroupMe, which allows you to send text messages that are actually in a group format. That’s right — not all messaging apps wear capes. If that’s not enough, users can also make conference calls, create events and start group polls whenever the verdict is split.
With a native app for iOS, Android, and even Windows, there’s no excuse for not being in the loop.
For all the minimalists out there, you don’t even need the app to join in on the fun, as GroupMe automatically threads your conversation, even if the other participants aren’t up to speed.
Best known for its use and popularity in China, there are 300 million people who use WeChat as their preferred messaging service. Not to be confused with the 600 million users have downloaded the app.
WeChat’s popularity was built around the app’s mobile payment service, conveniently titled WeChat Pay, which allows users to make everyday purchases and organises their day-to-day lives.
Among the services that can be utilised through WeChat Pay are food deliveries, hailing a taxi as well as booking flights and hotels.
Given the influx of Chinese tourists in Australia, the app is growing in its use locally as well.
Much like the aforementioned apps, Line operates as an all-in-one service that looks and feels like a social media feed but has far more functionality.
True to its label, Line offers all of the traditional purposes such as messaging, file sharing and chat, and also gives users a real-time feel with its unique live video function. The best memories are often those captured spontaneously, which makes Line a popular alternative when communicating while abroad.
For those that like to change things up, Line has a playful take on video calls with its Face Play option, which turns a friendly video chat into a game filled with face filters and effects.
Travellers through Asia will also have access to the Line OpenChat hub, which offers unique local experiences, along with handy news and information specific to your area. At the time of reading, Line offers this to app users in Japan, Thailand and Indonesia.
Travelling with a working SIM card isn’t a luxury afforded to everyone, which is why Kik is fast becoming a must-have when on the road (or in the air).
In most cases, users are required to link their traditional SIM to a messaging app to enjoy the full functionality and make contact with their loved ones. However, Kik is an exception to the rule with its quick set-up via email.
Once you’ve linked your email account, the app simulates the text messaging experience through your Wi-Fi connection. Although its use is heavily reliant on having access to the internet, it serves as a popular alternative for those who travel light.
In terms of app features, users can see when a contact is typing a response in real-time, while also providing handy read receipts once your message lands on the other side.
In our heavy digital lifestyles, the value of face-to-face interactions can often be forgotten.
This brings us to Facebook Messenger, the cross-platform chat app, which allows a slew of varied communication methods, highlighted by its group video chat function (filter optional) and live location sender.
Travelling is fun but getting lost certainly isn’t, which is why Facebook Messenger lets your family and friends see your exact location on a map, even as you move. Another handy feature is the ability to send or receive money with PayPal integration, although this feature is limited to users travelling in the US, UK or France.
If that isn’t reliable enough, the app also helps you avoid any potentially awkward situations by deleting a message you’ve sent, up to ten minutes after it’s been delivered. The only catch is that the people in the same conversation will know a message has been removed.
Travelling without a SIM? We’ve got you covered. Check out our great value SIM Only plans here.
