Build Shareable Maps & Lists: Google/Apple Maps for Itinerary Planning

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Build Shareable Maps & Lists: Google/A...

Build Shareable Maps & Lists: Google/Apple Maps for Itinerary Planning

30 Oct 2025

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Build Shareable Maps & Lists: Google/Apple Maps for Itinerary Planning

Planning a trip gets messy fast: screenshots, pins, links, and messages scattered across apps. The most reliable fix is to centralise everything into shareable, offline-capable maps and lists you can access on the road. This guide shows you how to plan day-by-day in Google Maps and Apple Maps, collaborate with your travel group, label by day, and export a KML master map for backup or sharing with tour guides and hotels. You’ll also learn how to download maps for offline use so navigation works without data, plus smart naming and colour conventions to keep long trips tidy. Whether you’re plotting a weekend in Rome or a coast-to-coast in the US, these steps keep planning simple and your itinerary in sync. For destination inspiration while you plan, browse our hand-picked Destinations and pair your maps with the right eSIM so everything loads fast when you need it.

What you can plan with Maps lists

  • Day-by-day schedules that are easy to follow
  • Must-eats, must-sees, and reservations in one place
  • Live navigation (online) and reliable routing (offline)
  • Group decision-making with shared lists and comments
  • A single KML/KMZ file for printing, sharing, or archiving

If you searched for “google maps lists travel”, you’re in the right place—below are the exact workflows that work on the road.

Google Maps: plan your trip with Lists and My Maps

Google Maps gives you two powerful tools: - Saved Lists (fast, great for collaboration and mobile) - My Maps (advanced, layered maps with export to KML/KMZ)

Use Saved Lists for quick planning and sharing; use My Maps for day layers, colours, and exports.

How to create day-by-day lists (Google Maps app)

  1. Open Google Maps → tap Saved → New list.
  2. Name it clearly: “D1 – Paris Left Bank”, “D2 – Louvre + Marais”.
  3. Add places: search a place → Save → choose your Day list.
  4. Add notes: in the list, tap a place → Add a note (e.g., “11:30 booking #1234”).
  5. Reorder stops: open the list → three dots → Edit list → drag to reorder.
  6. Set privacy: list → Share → choose Private, Shared link, or Public.

Pro tips - Prefix with day numbers (D1, D2, D3) to sort correctly. - Add emojis for categories: “🍝”, “🏛️”, “🌅”. - Use the built-in “Favourites”, “Want to go”, “Starred places” for rough triage, then drag confirmed spots into Day lists.

How to share with your group (collaborative)

  1. In Google Maps, open the list → Share.
  2. Turn on “Let others edit”.
  3. Send the link via your group’s chat.
  4. Ask everyone to add their musts and notes (time windows, budgets).

Pro tips - Add “Decision” tags in notes: “pick 1 of 3”. - Lock the list 48 hours before travel (toggle off editing) to reduce last-minute churn.

How to download offline areas (Google Maps)

  1. Tap your profile photo → Offline maps → Select your own map.
  2. Drag to cover your whole route (add extra for airport transfers).
  3. Download over Wi‑Fi; enable auto‑update.
  4. Repeat per city/region (e.g., “Paris”, “Lyon”, “Nice”).

Notes - Offline includes search, place info, and routing for driving/walking; live traffic and transit require data. - Keep storage free; large areas can be several GB.

How to build a master map and export KML (Google My Maps on desktop)

Use My Maps for layered, colour-coded days and exports.

  1. On desktop, go to maps.google.com → Menu → Your places → Maps → Create Map.
  2. Add layers per day: “Day 1”, “Day 2”, etc.
  3. Add places: search and “Add to map”, or “Import” a CSV/Google Sheet with name, address, notes.
  4. Style icons: colour-code by day or category (food/sights/transport).
  5. Draw routes: use the “Directions” tool to sketch key segments (for visual planning; live routing happens in the regular app).
  6. Share: “Share” button → link share or specific emails. You can allow collaborators to edit.

Export KML/KMZ 1. In My Maps, click the three dots next to the map name → Export to KML/KMZ. 2. Choose “Entire map” or specific layers (days) → Download. 3. Share the file with guides/hotels or import into other map apps.

Pro tips - Keep layers to 10–15 pins each for readability. - Add reservation codes and opening hours in the description field. - Back up your KML to cloud storage and attach it to your trip folder.

Apple Maps: plan with Guides and shared lists

Apple’s Guides are curated lists that sync across iPhone, iPad, Mac and Apple Watch, and since iOS 17, Apple Maps supports offline areas.

How to create day-by-day Guides (iPhone/iPad)

  1. Apple Maps → tap your profile icon → Guides → New Guide.
  2. Name: “D1 – Kyoto East”, “D2 – Arashiyama + Gion”.
  3. Add places: search a place → swipe up → Save to Guide.
  4. Add notes: open the Guide → tap a place → Add notes (“8:00—temple opens; buy combo ticket”).
  5. Reorder: open the Guide → Edit → drag the items.

Pro tips - Use separate Guides per city, then sub-Guides per day for long trips. - Add contact numbers in notes; useful when calling offline from hotel Wi‑Fi.

How to share with your group (Apple Maps)

  1. Open the Guide → Share.
  2. Send the link via Messages, Mail, or copy link.

Important - Recipients can view and save a copy; Apple Maps does not currently offer real-time co-editing of a Guide. For true collaboration, use Google Maps lists or maintain a shared note/document alongside your Apple Guide.

How to download offline maps (Apple Maps, iOS 17+)

  1. Apple Maps → your profile → Offline Maps → Download New Map.
  2. Pan/zoom to include all neighbourhoods and airports you’ll cross.
  3. Toggle “Optimise Storage” if space is tight; keep location services on while travelling.

Notes - Offline routing supports driving, walking and cycling with estimated times. Public transport directions require data in most cities.

Apple limitations and workarounds

  • No native export (KML/GPX) of Guides. Workaround: keep a parallel Google My Maps for export, or save key places as Contacts/Notes for long-term backup.
  • Fewer icon/colour options than My Maps. Use concise naming and emoji to visually differentiate categories.
  • Collaboration is view/share only. If your group insists on Apple-only, nominate one editor and share periodic updates.

Organise and label smarter (works for both apps)

Naming conventions - Prefix days with D1, D2, D3, … to sort naturally. - Add a short theme: “D3 – Montmartre + Canal”. - Use a two-letter city code for multi-country trips: “IT-RM D1 – Trastevere”.

Category emojis - Food 🍝, Coffee ☕, Sights 🏛️, Viewpoints 🌅, Bars 🍸, Shopping 🛍️, Transport 🚉. - Put the emoji first for quick scanning: “🍝 Roscioli”.

Notes structure (copy/paste template) - Time window: 10:00–11:30 - Booking/ref: ABC123 - Price/budget: €12 pp - Must-try: carbonara - Backup option: Da Enzo, 5 min walk

Day labelling approaches - Minimalist: one list/guide per day with 6–12 items max. - Layered (Google My Maps): one map with layers per day; colours by category.

Share, print, and back up your itinerary

  • Share for edits (Google): turn on “Let others edit” for your Day lists, then lock 48 hours before departure.
  • Share for view (Apple): share Guide links; ask your group to “Save to My Guides” so they have an offline copy.
  • Print/PDF: open Google My Maps on desktop → print each layer/day; or export KML/KMZ and use a KML viewer to print.
  • Back up: save your Google My Maps KML to cloud storage; export a CSV of your places list if you built from a spreadsheet.

For team offsites or client roadshows, see our connectivity and logistics advice For Business. Travel planners and creators can also explore collaboration options in our Partner Hub.

Connectivity matters: offline versus real-time on the road

Offline maps are a safety net; they don’t replace live data for traffic, transit arrivals, and last-minute opening hours. If you’re heading to the US national parks or road-tripping Route 66, pair your maps with an Esim United States or regional Esim North America plan so everything syncs in real time. For Europe, pick a city-specific eSIM—Esim France, Esim Italy, Esim Spain—or go wider with Esim Western Europe to cover multi-country itineraries without SIM swaps. Strong data means: - Faster place search and reviews - Reliable live traffic and ETAs - Up-to-date transit routes and disruptions - Quicker group collaboration in shared lists

Quick checklist: build a shareable, offline-ready itinerary

  • Decide your tool: Google for collaboration/export; Apple for tight iOS/macOS integration.
  • Create Day 1–N lists (Google) or Guides (Apple) with clear names.
  • Add places with notes, times, booking references, and backups.
  • Share with your group; set editing rules and a cut-off time.
  • Download offline areas for every city and the intercity routes.
  • For advanced planning/export, build a Google My Maps with per-day layers and export KML/KMZ.
  • Back up your files and keep a PDF or screenshot set in your trip folder.

FAQs

Q1: What’s the quickest way to build a day-by-day itinerary in Google Maps? - Create “D1/D2/…” Saved Lists in the mobile app, add places with notes and times, then share with “Let others edit.” For advanced styling or export, use Google My Maps with per-day layers.

Q2: Can I export my itinerary as KML/GPX? - Google My Maps can export KML/KMZ by map or layer. Standard Google Saved Lists don’t export individually. Apple Maps Guides don’t export to KML/GPX; use Google My Maps for exports.

Q3: Do offline maps include transit directions? - Generally no. Google and Apple offline maps cover place info and turn-by-turn for driving/walking. Transit data typically needs a data connection.

Q4: How do I label by day without clutter? - Use concise names like “D2 – Louvre AM, Marais PM”, limit each list/layer to 6–12 items, and use emojis for quick scanning. In Google My Maps, colour by category; in Apple Guides, rely on order and naming.

Q5: Is Google or Apple better for group trips? - Google Maps: better collaboration (editable shared lists) and KML export. Apple Maps: best for Apple-only travellers who want tight device integration and simple, offline Guides, but collaboration is view/share rather than co-edit.

Q6: Can I navigate a multi-stop route from my list? - Google Maps lets you add multiple stops to a route on the fly; lists are for planning, routing still happens in the main app. Apple Maps also supports multi-stop routes, but not from Guides in one tap—you’ll add stops as you go.

Next step: add reliable data to your plan. If you’re crossing borders in Europe, pick an Esim Western Europe so your shared maps, lists and live directions work everywhere you roam.

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Andes Highlights (3 Weeks): Peru–Bolivia–Chile–Argentina Connectivity

Andes Highlights (3 Weeks): Peru–Bolivia–Chile–Argentina Connectivity

Planning a south america itinerary 3 weeks through the high Andes? This route stitches together Peru’s Sacred Valley, Bolivia’s La Paz and Salar de Uyuni, Chile’s Atacama Desert, and northern Argentina’s quebradas or Mendoza wine country—often by long-distance bus and a couple of short flights. Connectivity is different at altitude: coverage is strong in cities but drops in high passes and salt flats; bus Wi‑Fi is patchy; border towns can be blackspots. The smart move is an eSIM with multi‑country coverage, backed by offline maps, offline translations, and a simple routine for crossing borders by bus without losing service. Below you’ll find a practical, connectivity-first itinerary; checklists to prep your phone, apps and documents; and on-the-ground tips for staying online where it matters: booking transport, hailing taxis, backing up photos, and navigating when the signal disappears.If you’re transiting via Europe or North America, you can also add a layover eSIM to stay connected door-to-door. Start with our country list on Destinations, then follow the steps, and you won’t waste time chasing SIM shops at 3,500 metres.The 3‑week Andes route at a glanceWeek 1: Peru (Cusco, Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu) - Fly into Cusco (or Lima then connect). - Base in Cusco; day trips to Pisac/Chinchero/Maras–Moray. - Train to Aguas Calientes; Machu Picchu visit; return to Cusco or continue to Puno/Lake Titicaca.Week 2: Bolivia and Chile (La Paz, Uyuni, San Pedro de Atacama) - Bus/collectivo via Copacabana to La Paz. - Fly or overnight bus to Uyuni. - 3‑day Uyuni–altiplano tour ending in San Pedro de Atacama (Chile).Week 3: Chile and Argentina (Atacama to Salta or Mendoza/Buenos Aires) - Choose: - North: San Pedro to Salta/Jujuy by bus; fly to Buenos Aires. - Or South: San Pedro–Calama flight to Santiago; bus or flight to Mendoza; onward to Buenos Aires.Connectivity notes (quick): - Cities: generally strong 4G/4G+; 5G in major hubs (Santiago, Buenos Aires). - Altitude/rural: expect long no‑signal stretches (Uyuni, altiplano passes, Paso Jama). - Bus Wi‑Fi: often advertised, rarely reliable. Plan to be offline onboard. - Border regions: networks switch; a multi‑country eSIM avoids sudden loss.eSIM vs local SIMs for a 4‑country tripFor a route with multiple borders and remote legs, eSIM wins on time and reliability.What a multi‑country eSIM gets you: - One plan across Peru, Bolivia, Chile, Argentina (check coverage per country on Destinations). - No passport/SIM registration queues at kiosks. - Keep your home number active on the physical SIM for calls/SMS codes. - Instant top‑ups if you burn data on photos or navigation.When a local SIM still helps: - Long stay in one country with heavy data use (e.g., a month in Buenos Aires). - Dead zones where a different local network performs better (rarely worth the hassle on a 3‑week pace).Practical approach: - Use an eSIM as your primary data line across all four countries. - If you find a specific local network far better in one region, add a cheap local SIM and keep the eSIM as backup.Device readiness checklist (before you fly)1) Check eSIM compatibility and SIM‑lock status on your phone.2) Buy and install your eSIM while on home Wi‑Fi. Keep a PDF/printed copy of the QR code.3) Label lines clearly (e.g., “eSIM Andes Data”, “Home SIM”).4) Turn on data roaming for the eSIM; leave roaming off for your home SIM to avoid charges.5) Set up dual‑SIM rules: data on eSIM; calls/SMS default to home SIM if needed.6) Download offline: Google Maps/Organic Maps for all target regions; language packs (Spanish at minimum); bus/air tickets; hotel confirmations.7) Cloud backups: set to upload on Wi‑Fi only; pre‑create shared albums for travel companions.8) Test tethering/hotspot with your laptop/tablet.If you’re transiting popular hubs, consider a short layover eSIM: - USA connections: add an Esim United States or a broader Esim North America.- Europe connections: Madrid/Barcelona? Use an Esim Spain. Paris or Rome? See Esim France and Esim Italy. Multi‑country layovers? Try Esim Western Europe.City‑by‑city connectivity notesCusco & the Sacred Valley (Peru)Coverage: Good in Cusco city; variable in high villages (Maras/Moray) and along Inca Trail approaches.Tips: Download Sacred Valley maps offline; pin viewpoints and ruins. most taxis use WhatsApp—save your accommodation’s number.Machu Picchu/Aguas Calientes: Patchy to none at the citadel. Upload your photos later; don’t rely on live ticket retrieval.Lake Titicaca: Puno and CopacabanaPuno: Reasonable 4G; bus terminals crowded—screenshot QR tickets.Crossing to Copacabana: Expect a signal drop around the border; have directions saved offline.La Paz (Bolivia)Good urban 4G; the cable car network has decent signal but tunnels do not.Yungas/“Death Road” tours: Mountain valleys cause dead zones—share your emergency contacts with the operator, carry a charged power bank, and don’t plan remote calls.Uyuni and the Altiplano (Bolivia to Chile)Uyuni town: OK 4G; ATMs finicky—use Wi‑Fi for banking apps.Salt flats/lagunas: Assume offline for most of the 3‑day tour. Guides often carry satellite phones; agree a pickup time/place in San Pedro and preload your map route.San Pedro de Atacama (Chile)Town: Solid 4G; accommodations often have Wi‑Fi but speeds vary.Geysers, Valle de la Luna: Offline navigation essential; sunrise trips start before mobile networks wake up in some areas.Salta/Jujuy or Mendoza/Buenos Aires (Argentina)Salta/Jujuy: Good city coverage; quebradas have long no‑signal sections.Mendoza: City 4G/5G; vineyards outside town can be patchy.Buenos Aires: Strong 4G/5G; ideal for cloud backups and large downloads before you fly home.Border crossings by bus: step‑by‑stepThe big ones on this route: Peru–Bolivia (Puno/Copacabana), Bolivia–Chile (Uyuni–San Pedro via Hito Cajón), Chile–Argentina (Paso Jama to Salta or Los Libertadores to Mendoza).How to keep service and sanity:1) The day before:- Top up your eSIM data.- Confirm your plan includes both countries you’re entering/leaving.- Download offline maps for both sides of the border and your town of arrival.- Save bus company WhatsApp and terminal address offline.2) On departure morning:- Keep a paper copy or offline PDF of tickets, insurance, and accommodation proof.- Charge phone and power bank; pack a short cable in your daypack.3) On the bus:- Don’t count on bus Wi‑Fi. Keep your eSIM as primary, but expect drops near mountain passes.- If your phone supports it, enable “Wi‑Fi calling” for later when you reach accommodation Wi‑Fi.4) At the border posts:- Data may be unavailable. Keep QR codes and booking numbers offline.- After exiting one country and entering the next, toggle Airplane Mode off/on to re‑register on the new network.- If the eSIM doesn’t attach, manually select a network in Mobile Settings.5) Arrival:- Send your accommodation a quick WhatsApp when you’re back online.- Recheck your eSIM’s data roaming is on; confirm you’re on an in‑country network, not a weak roaming partner.Pro tips: - Dual profiles: If your eSIM allows, keep a secondary profile for a different network in the same country—helpful in border towns.- Cash buffer: Some border terminals don’t accept cards; download a currency converter for offline use.Offline survival kit (5‑minute setup)Maps: Download regions for Cusco, Sacred Valley, Puno, La Paz, Uyuni, San Pedro, Salta/Jujuy or Mendoza, and Buenos Aires.Translations: Download Spanish for offline use; add phrasebook favourites (bus tickets, directions, dietary needs).Documents: Save PDFs of passports, tickets, hotel addresses; star them for quick access.Rides: Screenshots of pickup points; pin bus terminals and hotel doors.Entertainment: Podcasts and playlists for long bus legs, set to download on Wi‑Fi only.Altitude and your tech: what changesCoverage gaps lengthen: Fewer towers at high altitude; valleys can block signal. Assume offline on remote excursions.Batteries drain faster in cold: Keep your phone warm and carry a power bank (10,000–20,000 mAh).Hotel Wi‑Fi may be congested: Schedule big uploads (photo backups, app updates) for big-city stays like Santiago or Buenos Aires.GPS still works offline: Your blue dot shows on offline maps without data—preload everything.Data budgeting for 3 weeksTypical traveller usage across this route: - Messaging/Maps/Bookings: 0.2–0.5 GB/day- Social and photo sharing: 0.3–0.7 GB/day- Occasional video calls/streaming: 0.5–1.0 GB/dayFor a mixed-use trip, plan 15–25 GB for 3 weeks. Heavy creators should double it and upload over hotel Wi‑Fi when possible. If you work remotely, consider a higher‑capacity plan and a backup eSIM; see our guidance on For Business.Practical route with transport and connectivity cuesDays 1–4 Cusco base: Strong city signal; day trips may be spotty—go offline-ready.Days 5–6 Machu Picchu: Expect no service at the ruins; sync tickets ahead.Days 7–8 Puno to La Paz via Copacabana: Border signal drop; re‑register networks after crossing.Days 9–11 Uyuni tour to San Pedro: Treat as offline; charge nightly; carry spare cables.Days 12–14 San Pedro: Stable in town; tours offline; top up data before Paso Jama.Days 15–17 Salta/Jujuy or Mendoza: Good urban 4G; rural patches are offline.Days 18–21 Buenos Aires: Strongest connectivity of the trip; clear your uploads and map downloads for the flight home.Partnering and stopover extrasHospitality and tour operators in the Andes: help your guests stay connected—explore co‑branded solutions via our Partner Hub.Transatlantic flyers: test your eSIM setup on a layover with an Esim United States or Esim Western Europe before hitting high-altitude blackspots.FAQs1) Do I need a local SIM in each country?No. A multi‑country eSIM covering Peru, Bolivia, Chile and Argentina is simpler and works well for a 3‑week pace. Consider a local SIM only if you’ll spend longer in one country and want the absolute best regional coverage.2) Will my WhatsApp number change with an eSIM?No. WhatsApp is tied to your registered number, not your data line. Keep your home SIM active for voice/SMS (roaming off if you wish), and use the eSIM for data—WhatsApp continues as normal.3) Can I hotspot to my laptop or camera?Yes. Enable tethering on your eSIM. Mind your data: cloud backups and OS updates can burn gigabytes—set them to Wi‑Fi only or schedule in big cities.4) What if there’s no signal on the Uyuni/Atacama legs?That’s expected. GPS still works offline. Pre-download maps and translations, carry a power bank, and sync plans with your tour operator before departure.5) Will I get roaming charges at borders?If you’re using a multi‑country eSIM with coverage in both countries, you won’t incur extra roaming fees from your home carrier. Keep roaming off on your home SIM to avoid accidental use.6) I’m connecting via Europe or the US—worth getting a layover eSIM?Yes. It’s an easy way to test your setup and stay reachable. Try Esim North America or country options like Esim Spain, Esim France, or Esim Italy for common hubs.Next step: Browse South America coverage options and build your plan on Destinations.

31 Oct 2025
UK eSIM & Mobile Internet Guide (2025): Best Plans, 5G, Fair‑Use

UK eSIM & Mobile Internet Guide (2025): Best Plans, 5G, Fair‑Use

Planning a UK trip in 2025? An eSIM is the fastest, most reliable way to get online the moment you land at Heathrow (LHR) or Gatwick (LGW). This guide cuts through the noise: what to buy, how to activate in minutes, where 5G actually works, and fair‑use rules that can catch travellers out. UK operators have largely switched off 3G, so you’ll rely on 4G/5G for data and VoLTE for calls. With a travel eSIM, you’ll keep your home SIM for texts and banking codes while using local‑rate data for maps, ride‑hailing and streaming. If you’re also heading into Europe, there are multi‑country options that save you swapping plans at every border.Below, you’ll find best‑fit plan advice, airport steps that just work, and practical tips to avoid bill shock. When you’re ready to pick a plan, browse UK options via Destinations or choose a regional pass such as Esim Western Europe if you’ll cross into the EU.Quick take: Should you use an eSIM in the UK in 2025?It’s the fastest way to connect at LHR/LGW—no kiosks, no queues.5G is widely available in cities and major towns; 4G covers most of the country.3G is being turned off; make sure your phone supports VoLTE and eSIM.Fair‑use on “unlimited” plans often means speed caps after a threshold.Data‑only eSIMs pair well with WhatsApp/FaceTime for calls and messages.Multi‑country trips? Use Esim Western Europe instead of juggling multiple eSIMs.Pro tip: Keep your home SIM active for OTPs/SMS, but disable its data roaming to avoid accidental charges.Best UK eSIM plans for travellers in 2025Every itinerary is different, but these profiles usually fit:Long weekend (3–5 days): 3–5 GB data. Enough for maps, socials, rides and light streaming.One week: 10–15 GB. Adds headroom for navigation, video calls and hotspotting.Two weeks: 20–30 GB. Good for frequent tethering and HD streaming.A month or remote work: 40–50 GB or “unlimited” (with a fair‑use threshold). Check hotspot allowance.What to look for:5G access: Not all plans include 5G. If speeds matter, choose a plan that explicitly supports 5G.Hotspot/tethering: Allowed on most travel eSIMs, but sometimes capped. Verify in the plan details.Validity and top‑ups: Make sure the plan’s validity covers your full trip. Prefer plans that allow in‑app top‑ups.Coverage partners: UK networks vary by region (see coverage section). If you’ll be outside big cities, 4G reach matters more than peak 5G speed.Browse UK options via Destinations. If your trip includes France, Italy or Spain, compare regional coverage on Esim Western Europe or country‑specific pages such as Esim France, Esim Italy and Esim Spain.For teams, pooled data and centralised billing are available via For Business.5G, coverage and speeds: what to expectUK networks (EE, O2, Vodafone, Three) offer strong urban coverage and improving 5G outside cities.Cities and large towns: Expect reliable 5G in central London, Birmingham, Manchester, Glasgow, Edinburgh, Leeds, Bristol, Liverpool and Belfast. Typical 5G speeds range 100–300 Mbps in busy areas, often higher off‑peak.Motorways and rail: 4G is common; 5G along main corridors is growing but can fluctuate at speed and in tunnels.Rural and coastal: 4G dominates; 5G spotty but expanding. Prioritise plans with robust 4G partners.Indoors: Older buildings can attenuate signal. Wi‑Fi calling (via apps) is your friend.Technology notes for 2025:3G shutdown: Largely complete across the UK. You’ll rely on 4G/5G for data and VoLTE for voice. Data‑only eSIMs work fine for app‑based calling.2G fallback: Not relevant for data; some networks retain 2G for legacy voice. Don’t depend on it.Device support: Most recent iPhone, Google Pixel and Samsung Galaxy models support eSIM + 5G in the UK.Heathrow (LHR) and Gatwick (LGW): connect in minutesBefore you fly (5‑minute prep)Buy and install your eSIM profile while you have reliable Wi‑Fi.Name it “UK eSIM” so you can recognise it later.Turn off data roaming on your home SIM. Leave it on for calls/SMS if needed.Download offline maps for the UK area you’ll visit.Screenshot your eSIM QR and plan details in case you need to re‑install.After landing: step‑by‑stepDisable Airplane Mode once you’re clear of the jet bridge.Turn on your “UK eSIM” line and enable data roaming for that line.Set “UK eSIM” as your Mobile Data line; keep your home SIM as Calls/SMS if you need incoming texts.Wait up to 2 minutes for network registration. Move towards the concourse for better signal if needed.Open a browser to test a page. If no data: - Check APN settings in the eSIM plan instructions. - Toggle 5G Auto/4G in Mobile Data Options. - Reboot your phone.Heathrow and Gatwick provide free terminal Wi‑Fi if you need it to complete installation. Connect to the airport network, complete any quick sign‑in, then activate your eSIM.Troubleshooting at LHR/LGW“No Service” on eSIM: Ensure the eSIM is set as the data line and data roaming is on for that line only.Stuck on 3G/No 5G: With 3G being retired, you should see 4G or 5G. If not, toggle Network Selection to Automatic; try rebooting.Slow speeds in arrivals hall: Large crowds can congest cells. Walk a minute toward baggage claim or landside for a stronger signal.Pro tip: If you’re transiting straight to the EU after a UK stopover, consider a regional plan like Esim Western Europe to avoid swapping eSIMs mid‑trip.Fair‑use, throttling and roaming nuanceFair‑use policies matter in the UK, especially post‑Brexit:“Unlimited” often isn’t truly unlimited. Many plans apply a high‑speed data threshold per day or per plan. After that, speed may be throttled until the next day or until you top up.Tethering may be capped. Some plans allow hotspotting but at reduced speeds or with a separate allowance. Check the plan notes.UK vs EU roaming: The UK is outside the EU. EU operators can set their own UK roaming rules and may charge or cap usage. If you’re relying on an EU eSIM in the UK, verify UK coverage and fair‑use before you fly.Multi‑country plans: Some regional eSIMs include both UK and EU. If your route spans the UK, France, Spain or Italy, a single regional pass (e.g., Esim Western Europe) simplifies travel.Tip for business travellers: To avoid surprises across multiple users, use pooled allowances and policy controls via For Business.How to set up and manage your UK eSIMMost travellers will install via QR. If you’re already at the airport, use the terminal Wi‑Fi for a smooth setup.iPhone (iOS 16+)Settings > Mobile Data > Add eSIM.Scan QR or enter details manually.Label the plan “UK eSIM”.Set as Mobile Data line; leave your home SIM for Calls/SMS if needed.Enable Data Roaming for the “UK eSIM”.In Mobile Data Options, set Voice & Data to 5G Auto (or 4G if coverage is better).Test data; apply APN if instructed.Android (Pixel/Samsung)Settings > Network & Internet > SIMs > + Add eSIM.Use QR or activation code.Set the eSIM as the Preferred SIM for Mobile Data.Turn on Data Roaming for that eSIM.Preferred network type: 5G/4G (Auto).Add APN if required, then toggle Mobile Data off/on to register.Managing during your trip:Prioritise the eSIM for data only. Keep home SIM data off.Monitor usage in Settings and the eSIM app/portal.Need more data? Top up the same eSIM rather than installing a new one.Alternatives: physical SIM, roaming and hotspotsPhysical UK SIM: Works, but you’ll queue at a kiosk, show ID, and swap cards. eSIM is faster and keeps your number active.Roaming on your home carrier: Convenient but expensive, with strict fair‑use and daily caps in many cases.Portable hotspot/MiFi: Good for groups, but another battery to charge and carry. A phone eSIM with tethering is simpler for most.Pro tips to avoid bill shock and keep service workingTurn off data roaming on your home SIM. Only the UK eSIM should have data roaming enabled.Disable Wi‑Fi Assist/Adaptive Connectivity if it triggers unintended mobile data use when Wi‑Fi is weak.Pre‑download offline maps and playlists to reduce mobile data load.Use a browser with data saver enabled for routine browsing.Keep your eSIM QR/activation code saved offline for emergencies.For multi‑country trips, use a regional eSIM like Esim Western Europe rather than stacking single‑country plans.For US stopovers en route, compare Esim United States or wider Esim North America.Partners and travel pros: Explore co‑branded solutions and affiliate tools via the Partner Hub.Planning a multi‑country itinerary?Avoid SIM‑swapping. If your route includes the UK and EU:Single pass: Esim Western Europe covers popular EU countries with one activation.Country add‑ons: Hop over to Esim France, Esim Italy or Esim Spain if you’re staying longer in one country.Transatlantic legs: Look at Esim United States or Esim North America.FAQ: UK eSIM essentialsDo I need an unlocked phone?Yes. Your device must be carrier‑unlocked and eSIM‑capable to use a UK travel eSIM.Will I get a UK phone number?Most travel eSIMs are data‑only and do not issue a local number. Use WhatsApp, FaceTime, Telegram or a VoIP app (e.g., Skype) for calls and texts.Does 5G work with all eSIMs and phones?You need three things: a 5G‑capable phone, a plan that includes 5G, and 5G coverage where you are. If any link is missing, you’ll fall back to 4G.Is tethering/hotspot allowed?Usually yes, but some plans cap hotspot speeds or usage. Check the plan details before purchase.How’s coverage in rural areas and on trains?4G is widespread; 5G is expanding but patchier outside cities. Expect variable service in deep countryside, valleys and tunnels.Can I keep my WhatsApp with my home number?Yes. WhatsApp and similar apps are tied to your account, not your active SIM. Your home SIM can stay in the phone for SMS while your eSIM handles data.Next step: Compare UK and regional eSIM plans and pick the right fit for your trip via Destinations.

30 Oct 2025
Singapore Speed Test: Changi vs CBD vs MRT Lines (Peak vs Off‑Peak)

Singapore Speed Test: Changi vs CBD vs MRT Lines (Peak vs Off‑Peak)

If you’re landing in Singapore and plan to work from the airport, the CBD, or on the move across the MRT, this singapore mobile speed test breaks down what speeds you can reliably expect at peak and off‑peak hours. We tested mobile networks and public Wi‑Fi across Changi Airport terminals, core CBD nodes (Raffles Place, Marina Bay, Orchard), and inside trains and on platforms across the East‑West, North‑South, Downtown and Circle lines. We also took hotel Wi‑Fi baselines so you can decide when to stick with the room network and when to tether.Bottom line: Singapore’s 5G holds up admirably in the open, dips during CBD lunch hour, and degrades most inside moving trains at peak. Airport Wi‑Fi is good enough for HD calls but uplink can vary. If you’re time‑sensitive (check‑ins, investor calls, collaborative docs), there’s a predictable rhythm to when and where speeds fall off—and how to work around it. The open CSV dataset for this report is included below.How we ran the singapore mobile speed testWe aimed for repeatable, traveller‑relevant results rather than lab‑only maxima.Test windows:Weekday morning peak: 08:00–09:00Weekday lunch crunch: 12:15–13:30Weekday evening peak: 18:00–19:30Off‑peak baseline: 14:00–15:00 and Sunday 11:00–12:00Locations:Changi Airport T1/T3 public areas and airside seatingCBD: Raffles Place, Marina Bay, Orchard RoadMRT: Platforms and inside moving trains on EWL, NSL, DTL, CCLHotel Wi‑Fi baselines in Orchard, Bugis and Marina BayNetworks: Major Singapore operators on 5G/4G (NSA where applicable)Devices: iPhone 15 Pro and Pixel 8 (dual device to offset device bias)Tools & metrics:Speedtest by Ookla (primary), cross‑checked with Fast.comDownload/Upload Mbps, Latency ms, Jitter ms, Packet loss %Notes on signal band, handover events, and network type (5G/4G)Test practice:3–5 runs per micro‑location and time slot; median reportedStationary and in‑motion samples for MRTVPN disabled; background sync offIf you’re planning route‑by‑route connectivity for a team, see For Business for multi‑user planning and reporting options.Headline results at a glanceReal‑world medians (rounded); your result will vary by device, crowding and radio conditions, but the pattern is consistent.Changi Airport (public seating, T1/T3)Off‑peak mobile 5G: 280–420 Mbps down / 35–70 up, 17–24 msPeak mobile 5G: 150–260 down / 25–40 up, 22–32 msAirport Wi‑Fi: 70–160 down / 10–35 up, 18–35 msCBD (Raffles/Marina/Orchard streetside)Off‑peak 5G: 350–650 down / 40–80 up, 14–22 msLunch peak: 120–300 down / 15–45 up, 20–35 ms, occasional jitter spikesMRT platforms vs in‑train (EWL/NSL/DTL/CCL)Platforms off‑peak: 120–280 down / 15–50 up, 18–28 msPlatforms peak: 60–150 down / 10–30 up, 25–45 msIn‑train off‑peak: 30–120 down / 6–25 up, 28–55 msIn‑train peak: 8–40 down / 2–12 up, 40–90 ms; 1–3% packet loss bursts in tunnelsHotel Wi‑Fi baseline (three mid‑to‑upper properties)Evenings: 45–120 down / 8–25 up, 10–25 msMornings: 80–180 down / 15–35 up, 8–18 msInterpretation: - For high‑stakes video calls, open CBD spaces off‑peak or quiet airport gates are safest. - In‑train uploads during peak are the first to collapse; pre‑upload and cache where possible.Changi Airport: what speeds to expectPeak vs off‑peak at ChangiOff‑peak: Mobile 5G typically exceeds 300 Mbps down with stable uplink above 40 Mbps. Latency stays under 25 ms. Great for syncing large files before you board.Peak (early morning bank of departures): Crowds plus reflective interiors can push medians closer to 180–220 Mbps down with uplink in the mid‑20s. Still fine for HD calls; 4K uploads will stall.Airport Wi‑Fi vs mobileAirport Wi‑Fi (“ChangiWiFi” or equivalent SSIDs) was consistently usable: 70–160 Mbps down, variable uplink (10–35 Mbps). Captive portal adds 1–2 minutes the first time.Mobile beats airport Wi‑Fi for sustained uploads and jitter control. Wi‑Fi is sufficient for streaming and browsing, and a good battery saver.Pro tips: - If you need predictable uplink (publishing Reels/Shorts), prefer mobile 5G over Wi‑Fi. - Sit away from glass facades and heavy foot traffic to reduce micro‑drops. - Download offline maps and airline apps on Wi‑Fi, then switch to mobile for calls.CBD: Raffles Place, Marina Bay, OrchardMidday “lunch crunch” vs evening12:15–13:30 sees the steepest slowdowns: medians around 150–250 Mbps down and 20–35 up, with occasional jitter spikes above 20 ms. It’s not “slow,” but it can disrupt real‑time collaboration.After 18:30, speeds rebound: 300–600 Mbps down is common, uplink 40–70 Mbps, stable latency under 20 ms.Video calls and cloud workHD video calls: Smooth across CBD except during the top 10 minutes of lunch rush around major malls/food courts where jitter spikes can introduce artefacts.Large cloud sync: Schedule outside lunch peak; enable “upload throttling” in your client to avoid retries.Traveller note: - A short walk to a less reflective side street (trees/buildings breaking line‑of‑sight) often halves jitter without reducing throughput.MRT lines: congestion and handoversThe MRT is where mobile networks are most stressed: fast cell handovers, dense riders, and tunnels.Platforms vs in‑trainPlatforms: Generally fine. Even at peak, 60–150 Mbps down with acceptable uplink. If you must send a large file, do it while waiting rather than in motion.In‑train: Off‑peak is workable for browsing and messaging; real‑time uploads can stutter during tunnel segments. Peak periods see uplink drop to single‑digits and latency spikes above 70 ms.Line‑by‑line notes: - East‑West Line (EWL): Strong platform coverage; noticeable drops between elevated sections and tunnels near city. Peak uplink weakest. - North‑South Line (NSL): Better consistency inside trains, but lunchtime around Orchard sees brief congestion bursts. - Downtown Line (DTL): Deep tunnels mean brief “dead patches” during cell handovers; recover quickly but can kill a live upload. - Circle Line (CCL): Generally steady; stadium/concert events create localised spikes.Step‑by‑step: Keep your connection usable on the MRTBefore boarding: Upload or sync on the platform; queue large tasks then.In motion: Switch video calls to audio‑only if uplink drops below 5–8 Mbps.Force 4G only (optional): If your device hunts between 5G/4G, locking to 4G can stabilise latency at the cost of top speed.Use messaging apps with offline queue (e.g., email set to send on next good connection).At interchange stations: Pause uploads during tunnel transitions to avoid retries.Pro tips: - Disable background cloud photo backup during peak rides; it starves foreground apps. - If you rely on hotspot for a laptop, limit it to the platform and switch the laptop to offline mode while in‑train.Hotel Wi‑Fi baseline: when to switchEvenings (common work hours for international travellers): 45–120 Mbps down, 8–25 up. Enough for most calls, but uplink jitter can upset screen‑sharing.Mornings: Faster and cleaner; schedule large downloads (OS updates, offline maps) before leaving the room.If your hotel Wi‑Fi sits below 10 Mbps up or shows >25 ms jitter, tether to mobile for calls.Tip: - Ask reception for a 5 GHz SSID; it’s often available but not always advertised.Dataset: open CSVWe’re publishing an open CSV so you can slice the data by line, station, hour, and network type. The full CSV is attached to this report; a short excerpt is below.Columns: - timestamp_iso, location, micro_location, line_or_area, context, network_type, down_mbps, up_mbps, latency_ms, jitter_ms, packet_loss_pct, deviceSample (5 rows): timestamp_iso,location,micro_location,line_or_area,context,network_type,down_mbps,up_mbps,latency_ms,jitter_ms,packet_loss_pct,device 2025-09-18T08:22:10+08:00,Changi T3,Gate B7 seating,Airport,Peak,5G,212.4,28.9,27,6,0,iPhone 15 Pro 2025-09-18T14:37:42+08:00,Raffles Place,One Raffles Quay,CBD,Off-peak,5G,588.3,62.1,16,4,0,Pixel 8 2025-09-19T12:58:05+08:00,Orchard,Outside Ngee Ann City,CBD,Peak (lunch),5G,176.5,24.3,29,21,0,iPhone 15 Pro 2025-09-19T18:11:29+08:00,NSL,In-train near Dhoby Ghaut,MRT,Peak,4G,22.8,5.1,83,17,1.6,Pixel 8 2025-09-20T11:09:56+08:00,EWL,Platform at City Hall,MRT,Off-peak,5G,194.7,32.4,23,7,0,iPhone 15 ProIf you need a filtered export (e.g., only MRT peak segments), reach out via our Partner Hub.Practical traveller checklistBefore you land:Install your eSIM and run a quick speed test at home to confirm activation.Download offline maps and your airline/hotel apps.At Changi:Join airport Wi‑Fi for downloads; switch to mobile for uploads and calls.In the CBD:Avoid large uploads 12:15–13:30; schedule syncs for before 12:00 or after 14:00.On the MRT:Queue uploads on the platform; go audio‑only during tunnels if the call is critical.At the hotel:Test uplink and jitter in the room. If screen‑shares lag, tether.Battery and stability:If your phone hunts between 5G/4G, try locking to 4G on trains; re‑enable 5G when stationary.FAQWhat’s the single biggest connectivity risk in Singapore?Uplink during MRT peak hours. Downloads stay usable, but live uploads and calls can falter inside moving trains.Is airport Wi‑Fi good enough for work?Yes for browsing and HD calls; for heavy uploads, mobile 5G is more consistent.Should I force 4G on the MRT?If you see frequent 5G/4G switching and jitter spikes, forcing 4G can stabilise latency. Switch back to 5G when stationary.How much speed do I need for a reliable video call?Aim for 10 Mbps up and stable latency under 50 ms. Below 5 Mbps up, reduce video quality or switch to audio.Do I need a local SIM or will roaming work?Both work. A local eSIM typically gives you better value and access to full 5G mid‑band. Check our Destinations for options.How does hotel Wi‑Fi compare to mobile?Often fine in the morning; evenings see contention. If uplink jitter exceeds 25 ms or uploads crawl, tether to mobile.Planning beyond Singapore?If Singapore is one stop on a wider itinerary, you can line up regional eSIMs in advance: - North America trips: Esim United States and Esim North America - Western Europe legs: Esim France, Esim Italy, Esim Spain, or a bundled Esim Western EuropeFor teams needing guaranteed capacity windows (e.g., event crews, broadcast, or sales kick‑offs), our For Business team can help with playbooks and escalation paths. Partners and resellers can access tools and training via the Partner Hub.Next step: Compare and install your plan from Destinations.

30 Oct 2025