Would it make sense to take our IPhones to the UK as a way to maintain minimal computer contact? I already have a cell phone that works in the UK, so the IPhones wouldn't serve any purpose as phones per se, but the thought of lugging a laptop, or even a netbook, around is not very appealing. Will the IPhone's WiFi connectivity be similar to here in the U.S.? (FYI, we both have unlimited data plans, if that matters...). Thanks for the always great advice.
Posted by
Tuscaloosa, AL
1152 posts
Roy, the unlimited data plan you have here means nothing overseas. Instead, you will be roaming and charged something shocking such as $20 a MB for data usage over the cell phone networks. Don't do it. There are cheaper options. Check out some of the other recent posts about iPhone and iPad usage or just about cell usage in general. If you have trouble finding them, let me know. I've been putting links in lots of posts I've made this month and can give you a few, too. Wifi will work the same way. You can find wifi connections at lots of places, but I didn't find it to be as easy as some have said. I stayed in places with Internet connections, but the connections were over a cable, which didn't help at all with the phone. It was easier just to get data over a low cost data plan using a local prepaid U.K. SIM. Be careful if you do take the iPhone that you don't accidentally roam for data without knowing it. IPhones are somewhat notorious about using a lot of data in the background, which can easily result in a bill in the hundreds or even thousands of dollars. As for your general question, I feel the same way about carrying a netbook, or, god forbid, a laptop. Too much weight and bulk. On my most recent trip this past summer, I made do with a capable smartphone over wifi and the U.K. cell network It works. It isn't as convenient or easy, but it works. I've carried a netbook before, and it had some advantages, but they didn't outweigh the drawbacks. I just got tired of lugging it around. The only larger device I might consider is a tablet computer. That might be an acceptable middle ground. If I knew I had to do much writing, I might pack a portable bluetooth keyboard, too. I have one that pairs with my phone.
Posted by
San Francisco, CA
166 posts
Roy, I wrote an entire blog post on this topic: http://www.lodgephoto.com/blog/set-up-iphone-for-europe-travel-save-money/277/ Yes, Wifi on the iPhone works exactly the same way as in the US. Your US plan only covers the US. You need international roaming to use cellular data overseas, as the article explains. Mahew
Posted by
New York City, NY, USA
5678 posts
Roy, You can turn off the roaming on your iphone and not be worried about turning it on. I've taken my iphone to the UK several times. I uses wifi to connect and get email. Pam