There are many ways to access the internet abroad. This article will first introduce the methods, advantages and disadvantages of telecommunications roaming.
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The easiest way to access the internet when traveling abroad is to use your original Taiwanese SIM card and enable "data roaming".
No need to change SIM cards or scan QR codes; just turn on your phone settings at the airport or after landing to access the internet immediately. Many people's first reaction when traveling abroad is to use roaming.
I. Telecom Roaming Practices
Before traveling abroad, check your telecom provider's website or store to find out what roaming plans are currently available.
Some are "daily unlimited data plans," while others have "a certain data cap" or are "pay-as-you-go."
Normally, as long as you activate the plan before going abroad, you can automatically connect to the cooperating telecom company by turning on "data roaming" on your phone once you arrive overseas.
II. Advantages: The most user-friendly solution for lazy people
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No need to change your SIM card, no fear of losing your original SIM card.
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Keep your original phone number; you won't miss bank messages or calls from friends and family.
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It's very convenient for those who don't travel abroad frequently but have occasional business trips.
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If the company has a support plan, occasional business trips are not a big burden.
For those who don't want to study the plans at all, or are afraid that their elders will confuse the settings, roaming is indeed the simplest option.
III. Disadvantages: Costs and rules are the most important factors to consider.
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The price is usually the most expensive of the three options.
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Some apps advertise "daily limit," but this actually means your speed will be reduced after you exceed the limit, not that you can use unlimited data for free.
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When traveling between multiple countries, there may be different billing zones, and you can easily exceed your budget if you're not careful.
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If you forget to turn off roaming when you return to Taiwan, you may continue to be charged according to international billing methods.
The most common situation is that people only look at "how much is the daily rental fee" and don't pay attention to "how many GB are included and what happens if you exceed that limit". They only find out that they have been speed-limited or overcharged when they return to their home country.
IV. Groups suitable for using telecommunications roaming
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Occasional short business trips, and the company will reimburse the expenses.
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People who are very concerned about "being able to receive calls from the original mobile number" but don't want to do any extra setup.
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Situations requiring urgent travel abroad and where there is no time to prepare an eSIM or physical SIM card.
If you're only going on a short trip of two or three days and don't want to deal with anything else, choosing a clear daily roaming plan is fine. Just make sure you understand the "price + data allowance + speed limit rules" before you go.