How Much Mobile Data Do You Need Abroad?
When traveling internationally, staying connected is a priority. But how much is 30 GB of data, and how far will it take you? Whether you're using eSIM, a local SIM card, or roaming, understanding data usage can help you avoid unexpected charges and maximize your connectivity.
This guide explains:
- What you can do with 30 GB of data
- How much it costs in different countries
- Best ways to stay connected without overspending
- Tips to stretch your data allowance further
How Much Can You Do with 30 GB of Data?
Data consumption varies by activity. Here's how much data common tasks typically use:
Streaming & Entertainment
- YouTube or Netflix (SD Quality) → ~30-45 hours (~0.7-1 GB per hour)
- YouTube or Netflix (HD Quality) → ~12-18 hours (~2-3 GB per hour)
- Spotify or Apple Music → ~500 hours (~80 MB per hour)
Social Media & Browsing
- Facebook, Instagram, TikTok → 50-150 MB per hour (depends on video content)
- Web browsing & emails → 50-100 MB per hour (excluding heavy downloads)
Video Calls & Work
- Zoom or Teams video calls → ~30-40 hours (~1 GB per hour)
- Google Maps & GPS Navigation → Minimal data (~100 MB per day unless downloading maps)
Key takeaway:
For an average traveler, 30 GB is enough for 2-4 weeks, depending on your browsing, streaming, and call habits. However, digital nomads or heavy streamers may need more.
Cost of 30 GB of Data in Different Countries
The cost of mobile data varies depending on the country, carrier, and whether you're using a local SIM, eSIM, or roaming.
| Country | Estimated Cost (Local SIM/eSIM) | Roaming Price (Home Carrier) |
|---|---|---|
| UK 🇬🇧 | £25-35 ($30-45) | £50-100 ($60-120) |
| USA 🇺🇸 | $40-60 | $100-300 |
| France 🇫🇷 | €30-40 ($35-45) | €70-120 ($80-140) |
| Thailand 🇹🇭 | ฿500-800 ($15-25) | $50-100 |
| Australia 🇦🇺 | AUD 40-60 ($25-40) | AUD 100-200 ($65-130) |
Where Is Data Cheapest and Most Expensive?
- Asia and parts of Europe generally offer cheaper data plans.
- North America and some non-EU countries tend to have expensive roaming fees.
Recommended: Danish Mobile Roaming: Which Provider Offers the Best Deals Abroad?
Best Ways to Get 30 GB of Data Abroad
1. Local SIM Cards (Best for Budget Travelers)
Buying a prepaid local SIM is often the cheapest way to access mobile data while traveling. These SIMs are available at airports, telecom shops, and convenience stores.
Pros:
- Lower cost compared to roaming
- Full local network coverage
Cons:
- Requires a physical SIM swap
- Some countries require ID registration
2. eSIMs (Best for Convenience, Travelers and mobile data)
An eSIM is a digital SIM that allows instant activation. This is ideal for multi-country trips since you don’t need to swap physical SIMs.
Top eSIM providers for travelers:
- Breeze (affordable international plans)
- Holafly (unlimited data options)
- Nomad (regional plans with flexibility)
3. Roaming with Your Carrier (Most Expensive Option)
Roaming allows you to use your home carrier abroad but is often costly. Some providers offer international roaming bundles (e.g., Three’s Go Roam, Vodafone Global Roaming).
🔴 Warning: If you don’t have an international package, roaming fees can quickly skyrocket.
4. Public Wi-Fi & Travel Routers (Free but Risky)
Public Wi-Fi in cafés, hotels, and airports can help you save data. However, it’s often slow and unsecured—consider using a VPN for security.
How to Make 30 GB of Data Last Longer
Even if 30 GB sounds like a lot, data can disappear quickly if you’re streaming HD videos or making frequent video calls. Here’s how to optimize usage:
- Use Wi-Fi when possible – Hotels, airports, and cafés often offer free Wi-Fi.
- Download content in advance – Save Google Maps, Netflix shows, or Spotify playlists before traveling.
- Reduce video quality – Set streaming apps to SD instead of HD or 4K.
- Turn off automatic updates – Prevent apps from using background data.
- Monitor data usage – Use your phone’s built-in tracker or third-party apps.
- Disable background data – Some apps sync data even when not in use.
How Long Will 30 GB Last for Different Types of Travelers?
Your data needs depend on your travel habits. Here’s an estimate of how long 30 GB could last:
| Traveler Type | Daily Data Use | 30 GB Lasts For |
|---|---|---|
| Casual User (emails, news, some social media) | ~1 GB/day | ~1 month |
| Average Tourist (maps, browsing, occasional streaming) | ~2 GB/day | 15-20 days |
| Digital Nomad (video calls, work apps, social media) | ~3-5 GB/day | 5-10 days |
| Heavy Streamer (daily HD video streaming) | ~6+ GB/day | 4-5 days |
Tip: If you’re traveling for an extended period, consider unlimited eSIM plans or buying extra data when needed.
Need Help Estimating Your Data Usage? Try Our Tool!
Not sure if 30 GB is enough for your travel needs? Use our Data Usage Calculator to personalize your data plan based on your browsing, streaming, and work habits. Simply enter your estimated daily activities, and our tool will tell you exactly how much data you’ll need—so you never run out unexpectedly!
