Photo Backup on the Road: Google Photos vs iCloud vs Amazon Photos

30 Oct 2025

Travelling with your camera roll is thrilling—and risky. Lose your phone, hit a roaming cap, or run out of cloud storage and you’ll wish you had a better plan. This guide compares the three big photo backup travel apps—Google Photos, iCloud Photos, and Amazon Photos—with a traveller-first take: Wi‑Fi‑only uploads you can trust, HEIF/HEVC space savings, shared albums for family, and the storage math to avoid surprises. We’ll also show you the exact settings to prevent roaming bill shock and keep your memories syncing only when it’s smart. Whether you’re hopping across Esim Western Europe, doing a US road trip with an Esim United States, or planning routes from our Destinations library, you’ll finish with a clear choice and a clean setup.

If you only need the quick take: Google Photos is the best cross‑platform all‑rounder with powerful sharing; iCloud is seamless for Apple‑only travellers; Amazon Photos is compelling for Prime members who mainly shoot stills. The rest of this guide shows you how to set them up properly for travel.

The traveller’s checklist: what actually matters

Wi‑Fi‑only control: Ability to force backups on Wi‑Fi only and block roaming.
HEIF/HEVC support: Smaller files (often 30–50% savings) at the same quality.
Shared albums: Easy, private sharing with travel companions and family.
Storage math: Clear understanding of how much space your trip needs.
Cross‑platform: Will it work across iOS, Android, and web if you mix devices?
Recovery and search: Can you quickly find and restore photos if something goes wrong?

Storage math you can trust (with HEIF/HEVC reality)

Typical modern phone file sizes: - HEIF photo (12–48 MP): 1.5–4 MB per image (vs 3–8 MB for JPEG). - iPhone ProRAW/Android RAW: 25–80 MB per image. - 4K video (HEVC/H.265): ~170 MB/min at 4K30; ~400 MB/min at 4K60. - 1080p video (HEVC): ~60–90 MB/min.

What this means for a 10‑day trip: - 800 HEIF photos at 2.5 MB average ≈ 2 GB. - 60 mins of 4K30 video ≈ 10–12 GB. - Total ≈ 12–14 GB for casual shooters; up to 50+ GB if you film a lot.

Plan your cloud tier accordingly: - Google One: 15 GB free shared across Gmail/Drive/Photos, then common tiers at 100 GB, 200 GB, 2 TB+. - iCloud+: 5 GB free (tight), then 50 GB, 200 GB, 2 TB; 6 TB/12 TB available if you shoot loads of video. - Amazon Photos: Prime members get unlimited full‑resolution photo storage; videos count against 5 GB unless you buy more.

Pro tip: HEIF/HEVC can cut your data and storage by a third or more. Ensure your camera uses High Efficiency to get those savings.

Google Photos on the road

Best for: Mixed iOS/Android groups, smart sharing, powerful search, and reliable Wi‑Fi controls.

Highlights: - Cross‑platform apps and superb web interface. - Storage saver option compresses to smaller files (photos up to 16 MP, videos to 1080p) to stretch your storage. - Live Albums auto‑add people/pets using face recognition—ideal for family trip albums. - Solid HEIC/HEVC support; retains originals when set to Original quality.

Watch‑outs: - 15 GB free is shared with Gmail and Drive; empty inbox bloat can block backups. - Storage Saver downscales 4K video to 1080p—fine for sharing, not for 4K purists.

Set up Google Photos for travel (Wi‑Fi‑only + efficiency)

On Android: 1. Google Photos > your profile > Photos settings > Backup. 2. Turn Backup on. 3. Upload size: choose Original (best quality/space use) or Storage saver (smaller files). 4. Mobile data usage: set Photos = None, Videos = None. Turn off Roaming toggle. 5. In your Camera app, enable HEIF/HEVC (naming varies by device: Formats/Picture Format = HEIF; Video = HEVC).

On iPhone: 1. Install Google Photos > your profile > Photos settings > Backup. 2. Upload size: choose Original or Storage saver. 3. iOS Settings > Mobile Data/Wi‑Fi: ensure Google Photos has Mobile Data off if you want Wi‑Fi‑only. 4. iOS Settings > Photos > Mobile Data: turn Off (this stops iCloud too, if you use both). 5. iOS Settings > Camera > Formats > High Efficiency to enable HEIF/HEVC.

Pro tip: Use “Backup complete” status in the app before leaving hotel Wi‑Fi. If hotels are unreliable, a regional data plan like Esim North America can cheaply cover café Wi‑Fi gaps without roaming pain.

iCloud Photos on the road

Best for: All‑Apple travellers who want set‑and‑forget full‑quality backups and tight integration.

Highlights: - Seamless across iPhone, iPad, and Mac; keeps originals in iCloud and optimised versions on device. - iCloud Shared Photo Library (iOS 16+) lets families merge trip photos automatically—much better than legacy Shared Albums. - HEIF/HEVC native on iPhone; no downscaling on upload.

Watch‑outs: - Only 5 GB free—almost always requires a paid tier. - Cross‑platform access is minimal; Windows app and web exist but aren’t as slick as Google Photos. - Legacy Shared Albums compress images; use Shared Photo Library for full‑resolution sharing.

Set up iCloud Photos for travel (Wi‑Fi‑only + space saving)

On iPhone: 1. Settings > [your name] > iCloud > Photos > Sync this iPhone: On. 2. Select Optimise iPhone Storage to save local space. 3. Settings > Photos > Mobile Data: turn Off (prevents cellular/roaming uploads). If you use 5G, also turn off Unlimited Updates. 4. Settings > Camera > Formats > High Efficiency to keep files smaller. 5. Set up iCloud Shared Photo Library: Settings > Photos > Shared Library > Add participants and choose Automatic adding (by people/location) during the trip.

On Mac (optional): - System Settings > Apple ID > iCloud > Photos: On. Use “Optimise Mac Storage” on smaller SSDs.

Pro tip: If you shoot 4K aggressively, consider a temporary iCloud+ tier bump to 2 TB or 6 TB for the month of travel, then downshift later.

Amazon Photos on the road

Best for: Prime members who mainly shoot stills and want unlimited photo backups.

Highlights: - Prime includes unlimited full‑resolution photo storage; videos count to 5 GB unless you buy more storage. - Family Vault lets you invite up to 5 family members to a shared space. - HEIC support is good; originals preserved.

Watch‑outs: - Video allowances are limited on the free Prime allocation—4K clips will exhaust 5 GB quickly. - Apps are improving but search and sharing are less sophisticated than Google Photos.

Set up Amazon Photos for travel (Wi‑Fi‑only + stills‑first)

On iPhone or Android: 1. Install Amazon Photos > Settings > Auto‑Save: On for Photos (and Videos if you have paid video storage). 2. Settings > Uploads/Cellular Data: toggle Off for cellular and roaming; ensure Wi‑Fi‑only is On. 3. In your camera settings, enable HEIF/HEVC to minimise file sizes.

Pro tip: Use Amazon for unlimited photo safety, and set Google Photos to Storage saver for social‑ready videos. It’s fine to run two services—just control mobile data for both.

Shared albums that actually work on holiday

Google Photos:
Best for mixed devices. Create a Shared Album or a Live Album that auto‑adds specific people or pets. Enable collaboration so friends add their shots.
Link sharing is easy; you can restrict to specific Google accounts for privacy.
iCloud:
Use iCloud Shared Photo Library for full‑resolution, collective ownership. Great for couples/families on iPhone.
Legacy Shared Albums compress images—avoid for archiving.
Amazon Photos:
Family Vault for long‑term family pooling; album sharing works, but real‑time collaboration tools are simpler than Google/iCloud.

Privacy tip: Prefer account‑based invites over public links when possible.

Prevent roaming bill shock (settings you must flip)

Block cellular backups:
iPhone (iCloud): Settings > Photos > Mobile Data: Off. If you’re on 5G, also turn off Unlimited Updates.
iPhone (Google/Amazon): iOS Settings > Google Photos/Amazon Photos > Mobile Data: Off, and in‑app cellular/roaming toggles Off.
Android (Google/Amazon): In‑app Backup/Mobile Data usage: set Photos/Videos = None; Roaming Off.
Pause backups on travel days: All three apps let you pause backup—use this while tethering or when data is tight.
Use hotel Wi‑Fi wisely: Start uploads at night; plug in your phone so background tasks continue.
Consider a travel eSIM for controlled data:
City hops in Europe? Pick a regional plan like Esim Western Europe, or country‑specific options such as Esim France, Esim Italy, or Esim Spain.
Doing the US or cross‑border North America? Try Esim United States or Esim North America.
Back up before you fly: Do a full sync at home so only new trip media needs uploading.

Which photo backup travel app should you pick?

All‑Apple traveller who values simplicity and full‑res originals: iCloud Photos with Shared Photo Library. Set Mobile Data off and Optimise Storage on.
Mixed iOS/Android group, wants easy collaboration and strong search: Google Photos. Use Live Albums and Storage saver if you need to stretch storage.
Prime member who shoots mostly photos, not much video: Amazon Photos for unlimited photos; add Google Photos or iCloud if you care about video backups.
Video‑heavy creator: iCloud (Apple‑only) or Google Photos with Original quality and a larger storage plan. Consider local SSD backups for 4K.

If in doubt: Google Photos is the most flexible and travel‑friendly for most people.

Pro tips for smooth travel backups

Name your trip albums early: Consistent names help search and sharing later.
Download key maps/QRs offline: Avoid digging through the cloud at a turnstile.
Carry a tiny USB‑C or Lightning SSD: Offload RAW/4K daily if you shoot pro‑level media.
Audit storage before you leave: Free up space, empty “Recently Deleted”, and check remaining cloud quota.
For teams on tour: Centralise data policies and shared spaces. If you manage staff on the road, explore Simology’s For Business.

FAQs

Will HEIF/HEVC cause compatibility issues when sharing?
Rarely now. All three services store HEIF/HEVC, and when you share to people/apps that need JPEG/H.264, export/conversion is handled automatically. Keep originals in HEIF/HEVC for storage/data savings.
Does Google Photos “Storage saver” reduce quality too much?
It downsizes photos to a max of 16 MP and videos to 1080p. For social and everyday viewing it’s fine; keep Original quality if you care about 4K video or large‑format prints.
Are iCloud Shared Albums full‑resolution?
Legacy Shared Albums are not; they’re compressed and capped. Use iCloud Shared Photo Library for full‑resolution shared collections.
Can I run two services at once?
Yes. Many travellers use iCloud for full‑res originals and Google Photos in Storage saver for easy sharing/search. Just ensure both are set to Wi‑Fi‑only to avoid double mobile data usage.
What if my hotel Wi‑Fi is slow?
Prioritise photos first (fast to upload), pause video backup until you reach better Wi‑Fi or use a local eSIM day‑pass. Regional plans like Esim Western Europe or Esim North America are affordable stopgaps.
I’m a creator travelling with a team—any best practice?
Define a daily ingest routine to an SSD plus cloud, assign one master account for the trip album, and lock cellular uploads. For procurement and data policy support, see For Business or partner via our Partner Hub.

Next step

Choose a local or regional data plan that fits your route so your backups stay on schedule without roaming shocks. Start with our region‑ready options at Esim Western Europe or browse more in Destinations.

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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

Public Wi‑Fi vs Mobile Data: When It’s Safe (and When It’s Not)

Public Wi‑Fi is everywhere: airports, cafés, hotels, trains and planes. It’s convenient and often free—but it also introduces real risks that most travellers don’t see. Attackers can spoof hotspots, tamper with logins via captive portals, or downgrade your secure connections. Meanwhile, your mobile data connection is generally encrypted end‑to‑end by your operator and harder to meddle with. This guide explains the practical trade‑offs so you can make quick, confident decisions on the road. You’ll learn how captive portals work, what SSL stripping looks like in 2025, how to spot fake hotspots, and the exact settings to toggle before you connect. We’ll finish with a simple decision tree and safer defaults using eSIM, so you stay online without gambling with your banking, email or client data. If “public wifi safety” is your concern, this is your one‑stop, traveller‑first checklist.The quick answer: when to use mobile data vs public Wi‑FiUse this 30‑second decision tree.Do you need to log in to banking, payments, email admin, cloud consoles, or handle work credentials?Yes → Use mobile data/eSIM. Avoid public Wi‑Fi.No → Continue.Is the Wi‑Fi network name verified with staff or signage, and protected by a password (WPA2/WPA3)?No → Use mobile data/eSIM.Yes → Continue.Are you forced through a captive portal (web page that asks you to accept terms, add email/room number)?Yes → Connect only to accept terms, then immediately enable your VPN before doing anything sensitive—or prefer mobile data.No → Continue.Are you seeing any certificate warnings, HTTP-only pages, or “Not secure” indicators?Yes → Disconnect and use mobile data/eSIM.No → Low risk—proceed for casual browsing/streaming.Pro tip: If you’re in any doubt, default to mobile data or an eSIM travel plan. It’s the safest baseline.How public Wi‑Fi actually works (and where it breaks)Captive portals: convenience with a catchMost public networks use captive portals: you connect, your first web request is intercepted, and you’re redirected to a sign‑in/terms page. This interception happens before encryption to the wider internet starts. Risks: - Phishing: Fake portals mimicking a venue’s page to capture email, passwords or card details. - Tracking: Your device’s MAC address and browser fingerprint may be logged. - Forced insecure requests: Some portals push you through HTTP before you can enable a VPN.What to do: Confirm the network name with staff, use a throwaway email if required, and switch on your VPN the moment the portal grants access.SSL stripping and downgrade tricksModern sites use HTTPS with HSTS (HTTP Strict Transport Security). Attackers on open Wi‑Fi may attempt to: - Block HTTPS upgrades, keeping you on HTTP. - Inject a look‑alike page before a secure session starts. - Present bogus certificates hoping you’ll click “Continue”.Your defence: Never ignore certificate warnings. Use a browser with HTTPS‑only mode. Prefer apps with certificate pinning (many banking apps do this and will refuse unsafe connections).Fake hotspots (“evil twins”)Attackers clone a network name like “Airport_Free_WiFi” and broadcast stronger signal. If your device auto‑joins based on name alone, you’re connected to them. They can see and tamper with unencrypted traffic, and attempt man‑in‑the‑middle on poorly configured apps.Defence: Disable auto‑join for public networks, verify the exact SSID with staff, and “Forget” networks after use.Public Wi‑Fi vs mobile data: the real‑world risk differenceMobile data/eSIM: Your traffic rides an encrypted channel within the mobile network. While sophisticated threats (e.g., IMSI catchers) exist, they’re rare and targeted. For travellers, mobile data is significantly safer than open Wi‑Fi for logins and payments.Public Wi‑Fi: Shared medium, easy to spoof, and often funnels you through captive portals where interception is simplest. Hotels and conferences are common targets.Bottom line: Default to mobile data/eSIM for anything sensitive. Use public Wi‑Fi for low‑risk browsing and downloads only when you’ve verified the network and hardened your device.Safer connectivity with eSIM when you travelA local or regional eSIM gives you affordable mobile data without hunting for risky Wi‑Fi. With Simology, you can browse plans by country or region via Destinations. Popular picks: - USA city breaks and road trips: Esim United States or broader Esim North America - Euro adventures: Esim France, Esim Italy, Esim Spain or multi‑country Esim Western EuropeFor teams, zero‑drama travel data beats hotel Wi‑Fi every time—see For Business. Travel suppliers and venues can explore safer guest connectivity via our Partner Hub.Before you connect: a quick hardening checklistDo these once, then you’re covered trip‑wide.Turn on automatic updates for your OS, browser and key apps.Enable HTTPS‑Only/Always‑On in your browser.Install and configure a reputable VPN. Set “connect on untrusted Wi‑Fi.”Disable auto‑join for open networks; remove old public SSIDs.Turn off file sharing, printer sharing, and AirDrop/Nearby Share to “Contacts only” or Off.Use a passcode/biometrics and full‑disk encryption (default on modern devices).Prefer app‑based 2FA (not SMS) for important logins.Pro tip: Add your eSIM before you travel so you land connected—no need to touch airport Wi‑Fi.Connecting to public Wi‑Fi: step‑by‑stepVerify the exact network name and whether a password is required.Turn off auto‑join for that network (so you connect consciously each time).Connect and load the captive portal. Provide only minimal info—avoid reusing important passwords.Once online, immediately enable your VPN before opening any other app or site.Check your browser shows the padlock/HTTPS on sites you visit. If you see a warning, stop.Keep sessions short. When you’re done, “Forget” the network.Pro tip: If a venue offers a WPA2/WPA3 password, prefer it over truly open networks—there’s at least basic encryption between your device and the hotspot.Spotting common attack patterns on public Wi‑FiPortal phishing: The sign‑in page asks for your email and password for a third‑party service (e.g., “Sign in with your email provider”). Don’t. Portals should never need those credentials.SSL warnings: “Your connection is not private” pop‑ups. Never click through—disconnect.Name games: Multiple similar SSIDs (FreeAirportWiFi, Airport_Free_WiFi, AirportWiFi‑Guest). Ask staff which is real.Rogue DNS: You type a familiar address and land on an odd‑looking site. Quit immediately; recheck with mobile data.Sudden certificate prompts in apps that never ask for them (email, messaging). Treat as a red flag.When a VPN helps—and when it can’tHelps with: Encrypting your traffic across the local Wi‑Fi so others can’t sniff it; bypassing rogue DNS; reducing hijacking risk.Limitations: You usually must connect to the hotspot (and often its captive portal) before the VPN can start. A compromised device or phishing page can still trick you before the VPN is active.Practical tip: Connect → complete the portal with minimal info → enable VPN immediately → proceed. If the VPN won’t connect or drops repeatedly, switch to mobile data.Venue‑by‑venue: what to expectAirports and trains: High‑volume, prime targets for spoofed SSIDs. Treat as untrusted; prefer mobile data.Hotels: Portals tied to room numbers or surnames are common, but networks are shared across floors. Use VPN; avoid admin logins.Cafés and bars: SSIDs frequently change; lots of clones around. Verify the name at the till.Conferences: Attackers love events. Expect evil‑twin networks. Use mobile data for anything sensitive.In‑flight Wi‑Fi: Often proxied and filtered. Fine for casual use, but not for banking or work admin.Quick device hardening checklist (phones and laptops)Disable Wi‑Fi when you’re not using it; rely on mobile data/eSIM.Use a privacy‑focused DNS provider within your VPN, or set encrypted DNS (DoH/DoT) in system settings if supported.Limit sensitive notifications on lock screen.Use separate browser profiles: one for travel, one for personal.Log out of sessions you don’t need; clear site data after public Wi‑Fi sessions.For work devices, stick to your organisation’s managed VPN and policies.Pro tip: If your work depends on reliable, safe connectivity, standardise on eSIM data and keep Wi‑Fi as a last resort.Simple “safer by default” plan for travellersBefore you fly: Add a local or regional eSIM from Destinations.On the ground: Use mobile data for logins, bookings and payments.Only use public Wi‑Fi for downloads or streaming you don’t mind being interrupted.Keep your VPN ready for those moments where Wi‑Fi is unavoidable.Forget networks after use; don’t auto‑join anything public.FAQ: Public Wi‑Fi vs mobile dataIs public Wi‑Fi safe if the site shows HTTPS?Safer, but not safe by default. HTTPS protects the connection to that site, but portals, DNS tampering and fake certificates can still bite. Always heed warnings and prefer a VPN.Is mobile data always safer?For most travellers, yes. Mobile networks encrypt traffic at the radio layer and are harder to spoof casually. It’s the better choice for banking, email and bookings.Should I use a VPN on public Wi‑Fi?Yes. Use a reputable VPN and enable it immediately after the captive portal. If it won’t connect reliably, switch to mobile data.Can I do mobile banking on hotel Wi‑Fi?Best practice: use mobile data/eSIM for banking. If you must use Wi‑Fi, use your banking app (which likely pins certificates), turn on your VPN, and double‑check for any warnings.How do I tell if a hotspot is fake?Verify the exact network name with staff; beware multiple look‑alike names; check signal strength anomalies; avoid previously saved “free” SSIDs; and prefer password‑protected Wi‑Fi.Do I need an eSIM if venues offer free Wi‑Fi?If you value reliability and security, yes. An eSIM keeps you online for sensitive tasks without relying on unknown networks. Explore country and regional options via Esim United States, Esim France, Esim Italy, Esim Spain and Esim Western Europe, or go broader with Esim North America.Next step: Choose a safe, local data plan before you travel—browse Destinations and add your eSIM in minutes.

29 Oct 2025

Best Offline Maps for Travel (2025): Google vs Apple vs Maps.me

Offline maps are the safety net every traveller needs. Whether you’re driving across the States, wandering Paris backstreets, or hiking in the Dolomites, having maps that work with no signal can save battery, data, and stress. In 2025, three apps stand out: Google Maps, Apple Maps, and Maps.me. Each handles downloads, storage, and navigation modes differently—and those differences matter when you’re abroad, on a budget, or off-grid.This guide compares them side by side: how big the downloads are, how well driving vs walking works offline, what’s searchable without data, and how easy it is to keep maps up to date. You’ll also find quick setup steps, traveller checklists, and pro tips to avoid common gotchas. Want occasional data for place details or live traffic? Pair your offline maps with a local eSIM—options for the US, Europe and more are linked throughout so you can plan, download, and go with confidence.Quick take: Which offline map should you use in 2025?City breaks and mixed transport: Apple Maps (iOS 17+) for excellent offline walking/driving navigation and clean place info. Pair with a regional eSIM like Esim Western Europe for live transit and restaurant updates.Long road trips: Google Maps for reliable offline driving and big POI database; set storage to SD on Android. Add traffic with Esim North America or Esim United States.Hiking/off-grid: Maps.me for fully offline hiking trails and GPX/KML support. Great where coverage is patchy (e.g., national parks in Italy/Spain—see Esim Italy and Esim Spain for towns and transfer days).Low storage phones: Google Maps or Apple Maps (choose smaller areas). Maps.me is efficient for single regions but large if you grab whole countries.Android users with SD cards: Google Maps or Maps.me—both can store to SD, saving internal space.Explore where you’re heading with our country and city guides: Destinations.Side-by-side comparison (2025)Coverage and region downloadsGoogle MapsDownload by drawing a rectangle. Large trips often need multiple tiles.Good for cities/regions; entire countries require several downloads.Auto-updates available on Wi‑Fi.Apple Maps (iOS 17+)Download by area (rectangle). Simple to manage; can be large for whole-country coverage.Auto-updates on Wi‑Fi; “Use Offline Maps Only” option helps preserve data.Maps.meDownload by country/region (OpenStreetMap-based). Straightforward for full-country travel.Sub-regions available for big countries (e.g., states/provinces).Navigation modes offlineGoogle MapsTurn-by-turn offline: driving only.Walking/cycling: maps display offline, but routing typically requires data.No offline public transport routing.Apple MapsTurn-by-turn offline: driving, walking, and cycling supported.Transit timetables/updates require data.Maps.meTurn-by-turn offline: driving, walking, and cycling, plus many hiking trails.No built-in transit schedules.Search and place details offlineGoogle MapsOffline search works for saved area: place names, categories (e.g., “cafe”), and saved lists.Limited reviews/photos offline; star ratings may be cached.Apple MapsOffline search for places within the downloaded area; place cards show key info cached at download.Rich details (live photos, opening hours updates) need data.Maps.meOffline search across OSM POIs; very good for landmarks and trails, variable for small businesses.Fewer phone numbers/website links; info depends on community data.Storage size and space managementTypical ranges (heavily variable by density and coverage you select): - Google Maps - Major city: ~300–700 MB - Large region: 0.8–2.5 GB - Whole-country coverage: multiple tiles totalling several GB - Android: can store offline areas on SD card. - Apple Maps - Major city: ~250–700 MB - Large region: 1–3 GB - Whole-country: 4–9 GB+ depending on detail - iPhone only; no SD card—manage space carefully. - Maps.me - City/region: ~50–300 MB - Medium country: ~300 MB–1.5 GB - Large country: 2–5 GB+ (downloaded as regional chunks) - Android: supports SD card storage.Tip: Sizes expand with road density, 3D buildings, and POI richness. Always check your free space before trips.Battery and data useAll three work in aeroplane mode with GPS on. Expect 3–7% battery per hour of screen-on navigation; less if you lock the screen and use voice prompts.Live traffic, satellite imagery, and photos drive data usage—offline maps avoid this unless you go online.Apple and Google reduce data by preferring offline areas for routing when available.Privacy notesOffline navigation reduces data transfer but location services still operate. Review each app’s privacy settings before travel.How to download and set up offline mapsGoogle Maps (iOS/Android)Open Google Maps > tap your profile picture > Offline maps.Tap Select your own map > pinch/drag to cover your area > Download.Repeat for long routes (ensure overlaps). Aim to cover airports and fallback routes.Settings > Offline maps > turn on Auto-update and set Download preferences to Wi‑Fi only.Android only: Settings > Offline maps > Storage preferences > SD card (if available).Save key places to a List (e.g., Hotels, Must-eats) so they load offline.Pro tip: Name each area clearly (e.g., “France North”) to avoid gaps.Apple Maps (iOS 17+)Apple Maps > tap your photo/initials > Offline Maps > Download New Map.Search a city/region, adjust the rectangle to cover all planned travel.Toggle Auto-Update on. Enable Only Use Offline Maps to avoid roaming charges.Download multiple areas for long drives (e.g., Calais–Lyon–Nice).Add favourites (home, hotels, car hire) for quick access offline.Pro tip: If space is tight, download city centres plus intercity corridors rather than whole countries.Maps.me (iOS/Android)Install Maps.me and open once with data/Wi‑Fi.Search your destination; Maps.me offers the relevant regional download—confirm.For big countries, pick only the regions you need (e.g., “Lombardy” instead of all Italy).Settings > Map storage > SD card (Android) if available.Import GPX/KML hiking routes via email, cloud drive, or file manager.Pro tip: Create bookmark groups (e.g., “Trailheads”, “Cafes”) so they stay visible offline.Traveller checklistsBefore you flyDownload maps on Wi‑Fi and while charging.Cover airports, train stations, accommodation, and planned day trips.Turn on auto-update; verify last-updated date for each area.Save/bookmark essential places with local-language names.Test in aeroplane mode: open the app, get a route, start navigation.Pack a power bank; voice navigation drains less battery than screen-on use.On the groundKeep GPS on; use aeroplane mode to conserve battery and avoid roaming.If routes fail, you may be outside your offline area—zoom out and check coverage tiles.Switch to a local eSIM for live traffic and updated hours when needed:USA: Esim United StatesNorth America trips: Esim North AmericaWestern Europe: Esim Western EuropeCountry options: Esim France, Esim Italy, Esim SpainDriving and hiking specificsDriving: Preload fuel stops and rest areas. Expect no live traffic offline; allow buffer time.Hiking: Use Maps.me and import GPX tracks; download entire mountain regions. Carry a paper map/compass as backup in remote terrain.Accuracy notes by use caseDriving accuracyGoogle Maps: Best-in-class road coverage and address search; offline routing is robust, but no live traffic or dynamic rerouting around closures without data.Apple Maps: Strong lane guidance and clear visuals; offline driving is smooth. Traffic-aware routing requires data.Maps.me: Gets you from A to B offline; occasional quirks at complex interchanges. No traffic layer.Walking and cyclingApple Maps: Reliable offline walking/cycling directions with readable cues—great in dense cities.Maps.me: Good for walking and cycling; strengths include parks, trails, and shortcuts from OSM.Google Maps: Walking/cycling routing typically needs data. Use offline map for visual reference if needed.Hiking and off-gridMaps.me shines with trail coverage and GPX import. Still, verify trail status locally.Apple/Google can display terrain and paths, but aren’t designed as primary hiking tools offline.Pro tips to save time, space, and batteryUse two apps: Google or Apple for driving and addresses; Maps.me for trails or neighbourhood shortcuts.SD card on Android: Move Google/Maps.me downloads to SD to free internal storage.Minimalist downloads: City + intercity corridors instead of entire countries to keep sizes down.Save essentials: Hotel, embassy, car park, metro entrances, ATMs—by name and by dropping pins.Naming matters: Store shots of hotel exteriors and local-language names in your notes for easier offline search.Keep a light data fallback: A low-cost regional eSIM (e.g., Esim Western Europe) unlocks live traffic, restaurant hours, and last-minute changes.Teams on the road: Standardise one app + shared lists; see For Business.Creators and agencies: Share travel tech checklists with your audience via our Partner Hub.FAQs1) Do Google Maps work offline for walking? - You can view the map and saved places offline, but turn-by-turn offline navigation is primarily for driving. For reliable offline walking routes, use Apple Maps (iOS 17+) or Maps.me.2) Will offline maps expire? - Yes. Google and Apple periodically expire or update downloads to ensure freshness. Keep Auto-update on and refresh before long trips.3) How much storage should I budget? - For a multi-city week: 1–3 GB is typical. Whole countries can run 4–9 GB+. Maps.me regions are smaller but add up if you grab many. Always check free space first.4) Can I rely on offline maps without GPS? - No. GPS is required for blue‑dot positioning and navigation. You can still browse maps without GPS, but routing and location accuracy suffer.5) Is Maps.me accurate in cities? - Generally yes for landmarks and streets, but small-business POIs may lag. Pair with Google or Apple when you have data for the latest openings.6) Should I use one app or two? - Use the best tool per task: Google or Apple for addresses and driving; Maps.me for trails and deep offline use. Download both if space allows.The bottom linePick based on your trip: Apple Maps for city walking and clear offline guidance; Google Maps for road trips and strong POI search; Maps.me for hiking and fully offline scenarios.Download early, test in aeroplane mode, and keep auto-updates on.Consider a light data layer for live essentials—traffic, opening hours, and last-minute changes.Next step: Travelling across multiple countries? Add flexible coverage with Esim Western Europe so your offline maps are backed by instant data when you need it.

28 Oct 2025