National Road Trip Day on May 24th marks the beginning of road trip season, just before Memorial Day. According to AAA, 7.5 million people in the Pacific Region are excited to take an adventure with their families. There is also a growing interest in solo travel with 76% of travelers planning to take a solo trip this year, according to 2024 Global Travel Trends Report.
“Whether you’re on a solo adventure or exploring with family and friends, your smartphone can be an indispensable travel companion,” said Sarah Pearson, Area VP at UScellular. “From recommending useful apps to assisting in choosing budget-friendly international data plans, our tech experts are here to offer guidance and suggestions on how to make your upcoming journey both safe and memorable.”
UScellular offers the following tech tips for those who are traveling alone or with friends and family.
1. Download Maps: Did you know Google Maps offers the ability to download maps and access them offline, saving you mobile data while traveling? After you download an area, use Google Maps just like you normally would and the offline map will guide you to your destination. Just make sure the entire route is within the offline map. Don’t forget to invest in a portable charger like the Mophie PowerStation to keep your phone charged while on-the-go.
2. Secure your Device: Before leaving, backup important data – including emergency contacts, photos, documentation and settings within your apps – to the iCloud, Google Drive, or an external storage device to prevent data loss if your phone gets lost or damaged. Also consider using a strong password, fingerprint or facial recognition to unlock your device.
3. Don’t trust public Wi-Fi: You’ll often have access to free Wi-Fi at your hotel, restaurant or even retail stores. While this access is convenient, it may not always be safe. Hackers can use public Wi-Fi to gain access to your data, so it’s safer to use a secure cellular connection or a VPN.
4. Stay Updated on Travel Advisories: Subscribe to free apps, alerts and programs like the Red Cross Mobile App to stay informed about any emergencies, natural disasters or threats in your destination area.
5. Put your Phone in US Mode: While your phone can be a vital travel tool, you may want to have uninterrupted relaxation time while on your trip. Once you reach your destination, put your phone in US Mode so you can limit notifications and enjoy your time away without distraction.
