With summer just around the corner, travelers are packing their bags and gearing up for their next adventure. According to the 2025 Global Travel Trends Report, nearly 75 percent of people plan to take one to three domestic trips this year, while nearly 60 percent expect to take one to three international trips. Additionally, two thirds of surveyed Gen Z and millennials say they typically download travel-related apps on their smartphones before their trip to make the experience more enjoyable, memorable and stress-free.
“Smartphones are more than just tools of communication and connectivity – they’re essential travel companions,” said Kyle Burbine, director of sales and operations for UScellular in New England. “Whether you’re taking a family vacation, road-tripping with friends, or flying solo on a wellness retreat, our tech experts are here to help you stay connected, secure and ready for your trip.”
Here are five essential tech tips from UScellular to help travelers get the most out of their summer adventures:
Download offline maps. Apps like Google Maps and Apple Maps offer enhanced offline capabilities. Download your travel routes and city maps in advance so you can confidently navigate without relying on a data connection. Don’t forget to pack a car charger like the OtterBox Dual USB-C to keep multiple devices powered throughout the day.
Stay connected with messaging apps. Whether you’re exploring ancient ruins or visiting a national park, keep loved ones updated with messaging apps like WhatsApp or Signal. Additionally, these apps also allow you to use Wi-Fi whenever it’s available to avoid unwanted international texting fees.
Know your mobile plan. Before traveling abroad, be sure to review your wireless plan. UScellular offers affordable International Day Passes and Monthly Travel Passes and includes coverage for travel in Mexico and Canada. Don’t forget to disable data roaming in your phone’s settings to avoid accidental charges if you’re not on an international plan.
Protect your device and data. To protect yourself in the event of a lost or stolen device while traveling, back up your phone before you leave using iCloud, Google Drive, use secure screen locks such as biometrics and enable remote lock features. For physical protection, consider a durable phone case like the OtterBox Defender Series. For a limited time, UScellular customers can get an OtterBox Tumbler for just a penny with the purchase of any OtterBox accessory.1Set boundaries with US Mode. Sometimes the best part of travel is unplugging. Switch your phone to US Mode to minimize distractions while abroad and enjoy your trip with fewer interruptions, while still having access to essentials like maps, photos, and emergency tools.
UScellular is the fourth-largest full-service wireless carrier in the United States, providing national network coverage and industry-leading innovations designed to help customers stay connected to the things that matter most. The Chicago-based carrier provides a strong, reliable network supported by the latest technology and offers a wide range of communication services that enhance consumers’ lives, increase the competitiveness of local businesses and improve the efficiency of government operations. Through its After School Access Project, the company has donated more than $30 million in hotspots and service to help youth connect to reliable internet. To learn more about UScellular, visit one of its retail stores or www.uscellular.com. To get the latest news, visit newsroom.uscellular.com.