8 Essential Hacks for Every Traveler’s Phone

Have you ever dreamt of a smart travel partner? You can easily find one within your phone: all the necessary information, translators, maps, and guidebooks are all in one place. But don’t forget to take care of your buddy and protect and use it properly. Here are some tips on how to do it.

1. Be sure to keep your phone in a safe place, especially while in a crowd.

Phones are usually pretty expensive. Thus, they may attract unwanted attention. Phone thefts are not uncommon, especially in popular tourist destinations. So, try to keep your phone in a safe place and not in a plain view. It is better to use a tote or a cross-body bag instead of a backpack. It is much easier for thieves to access your backpack in a crowded place. If a backpack is your only option, keep it in front of you in busy locations.

2. It’s better to be prepared: what to do if the worst happens and you lose your phone? 

Firstly, you need to do the following before the departure: 

• Backup all of your data, including contacts and photos (for iOS: use iTunes or iCloud; for Android: go to Settings, then Backup & Reset).

• Use a secure passcode. Also, you can change your passcode to the one, including numbers and letters. What is more, it is a good idea to shorten the auto-lock time. For cases, when your phone is lost, you can put it in Lost Mode.  

• Ensure that you can erase the data from your device remotely (for iOS: enable Find My iPhone; for Android: enable Android Device Manager). The moment your phone will be connected to the internet, you will have an opportunity to wipe it remotely.   

• Backup your photos every time you get connected to Wi-Fi. Services that may help you in this include Google Photos (available both for iOS and Android).

3. The best combination for your phone during the trip is Airplane Mode and Wi-Fi.

Don’t forget to use this combo – it will save you from roaming charges. 

4. Use Google Maps to save your future destinations and access them offline.

It is always a good idea to have your maps downloaded, in case you need to use them without an internet connection. For example, to guide a taxi driver to your hotel or simply orient by yourself. 

This is how you can do it: 

• Connect to the internet and go to Google Maps. Find your destination. 

• Press and hold the chosen area on the map, then put a pin. 

• On the top right of your screen, tap the options menu, select Download Offline Area. Tap Download and there you have it: now you can access it offline. 

Now, if you need to go to the map you’ve downloaded, you can check the list of the offline maps on the top left of your screen by choosing Menu, then Offline Areas. Another service you can use instead of Google Maps is Maps.me, which is free and available for both iOS and Android.

5. Use Google Translate to synchronize the local language of your destination and access it offline.

Having a translation service at hand is always a good idea. After downloading Google Translate (it is free for both iOS or Android), tap one of the languages at the top. Find the desired language and check if there is an arrow next to it. If there is an arrow, you can download this language by tapping it.

6. Have an electronic version of the chosen guidebook.

Most online travel guides provide electronic versions of guidebooks – choose the desired format, buy and download it. You can view them in any appropriate app. 

7. If you have two-step verified accounts, write down backup codes for them.

Getting SMS may be problematic while abroad. So, ensure access to your email, bank, and other important accounts.

8. Buy a quality protective case.

Protecting your phone is crucial, so use a rubber case to cover it well. And the final tip is just as important as all the previous ones: don’t forget to put the phone away and enjoy your adventure!