Communication

Communication

Communication

Using Your Existing Phone Plan (Roaming):
  • We recommend using Truely eSIM which allows you to easily and cheaply connect to the local cell network wherever you travel - and avoid roaming charges. Truely specifically offers an option that includes all of Europe and the UK, and only costs about $2.50 per day (if you buy for 30 days).  Click here to see how it works. 
  • Check with Your Provider: Some mobile providers offer international roaming packages that work in the UK. You might want to check with your carrier before you leave to avoid high roaming charges.
  • Data Plans: If your carrier offers a decent data plan for UK, you can use it for navigation, browsing, and communication apps like WhatsApp or Facebook Messenger.
 
Buying a UK SIM Card:
  • SIM Cards for Visitors: When you arrive, you can buy a pay-as-you-go SIM card from major UK carriers like EE, Vodafone, O2, or Three. These are available at the airport, mobile stores, and even supermarkets (like Tesco or Sainsbury's).
  • Data & Calls Packages: Look for plans that include a good amount of data since you’ll likely use your phone for maps, translations, and contacting people. Many UK SIMs will come with unlimited texting and calls within the UK as well. Some will even offer free EU calls and texts, depending on the plan.
  • Top-Up Options: Many UK SIM cards come with pay-as-you-go credit, which means you can add more credit as needed. This is a flexible option since you only pay for what you use.
  • Messaging
    • We require you to use Whatsapp for text messaging, this is what people in the UK use commonly. You can also use it for making calls on wifi.
  • Wi-Fi
    • Public wifi: Many cafes, restaurants, and hotels offer free wifi. This is a great option for basic tasks such as email and text messaging.
    • Apartment wifi: Your apartment will have high speed wifi that you can use for FaceTime and other messaging apps such as Whatsapp, iMessage, Zoom.
    • Download Offline Maps and Apps: Having offline maps and apps like Google Translate downloaded can be helpful if you lose signal or wifi access.Cell phone
  • Local calls
    • You may need to call local businesses or people. We recommend that you use Whatsapp to make local calls, and to avoid incurring international calling charges.