If you’ve ever landed in a foreign country and immediately scrambled to find a signal or decent Wi-Fi, you’re not alone. We’ve all been there—hovering near airport cafés or waiting until check-in at the hotel just to send that “I arrived safely” message or open Google Maps. when to get mobile data for travel 

To better understand the habits of modern travelers when it comes to staying connected, we asked a simple but revealing question in an Alertify poll:

“When do you usually arrange mobile data for travel?”

Over 1,550 people participated, and the results paint a pretty clear picture of how travelers—whether for business or leisure—approach mobile data access.

Here’s how the answers broke down:

• I only use Wi-Fi when abroad – 2.86%
• At the airport upon arrival – 25.71%
• After I reach my hotel – 25.71%
• Before I leave, online – 45.71%

Let’s unpack that.

The Majority Prepares Ahead – And That’s a Smart Move

A solid 45.71% of respondents said they arrange mobile data before they even leave home. That’s nearly half of you!

And honestly? That’s probably the most stress-free way to travel. Pre-purchasing a travel eSIM or SIM card online lets you hit the ground running—no need to hunt for a kiosk, wait in line, or decipher foreign mobile plans after a long flight.

This growing trend reflects the rise of travel eSIMs, which are making international data easier and cheaper than ever. In a few taps, you can install an eSIM, choose a plan that fits your trip, and have connectivity the moment you land. No plastic SIM, no language barrier, no hassle.

This also says something bigger: mobile connectivity has become essential to the travel experience. From rideshare apps and digital boarding passes to Google Translate and WhatsApp, data is no longer optional—it’s part of the journey.

And those who prep in advance clearly understand the value of time, convenience, and avoiding roaming surprises.

The “Wait Till I Land” Crowd—A Quarter Go for Airport Setup

An identical 25.71% wait until they arrive at the airport in their destination country before sorting out data. It’s a familiar scene: you walk off the plane, grab your bags, and head to a SIM card booth while juggling luggage and jet lag.

Why do people do this?

Probably because it feels more tangible—some prefer speaking with someone in person, especially if they don’t know how long they’ll need data or want a local number. For others, it might just be procrastination or the lack of awareness that better options exist online.

The airport option works, sure, but it’s not always the most affordable. Prices are often marked up for convenience, and depending on the country, the process can be a bit chaotic. That said, if you’ve forgotten to prepare, it’s a decent Plan B.

Another 25.71% Wait for the Hotel – Risky, But It Happens

Equal to the airport-goers, another 25.71% wait until they’re settled in at their hotel to get connected.

This group likely relies on hotel Wi-Fi as the first step before diving into mobile plans. And let’s be fair—sometimes, after a long day of travel, the last thing you want to do is troubleshoot mobile data. You just want a shower and some solid internet.

But here’s the catch: relying solely on hotel Wi-Fi can limit your travel freedom. What if the signal is weak? What if you get lost between the airport and the hotel? Or need to book a last-minute Uber?

While hotel Wi-Fi is usually decent, it’s often not secure and not helpful when you’re out exploring. So if you’re in this group, maybe it’s time to look into quick eSIM setups before you go—you might thank yourself later.

Only 2.86% Stick to Wi-Fi Only – And That’s Not Surprising

It’s a tiny sliver, but yes—2.86% of travelers still rely solely on Wi-Fi while abroad. No SIMs, no mobile data, just hotspots in cafés, hotels, and public spaces.

This approach works best for ultra-budget travelers, digital detoxers, or those on very short trips. But for most of us, it’s too limiting. You can’t easily look up directions, translate menus, or hail a ride. And let’s not even talk about how frustrating it is when you’re trying to message someone and the café Wi-Fi suddenly drops.

This number being so low speaks volumes about how important constant connectivity has become to the travel experience. Even five years ago, this percentage would’ve been much higher.

What These Numbers Really Tell Us

The overall takeaway? People want seamless travel experiences—and mobile data is a huge part of that.

The fact that nearly half of travelers now sort out their data before even boarding the plane is a sign of growing tech-savviness. Tools like eSIMs, preloaded travel plans, and global roaming apps are changing the game.

But it’s also clear that a significant number of travelers still rely on old-school methods or delay decisions until the last minute.

At Alertify, we see this shift happening in real-time. More travelers are looking for affordable, fast, and flexible data solutions—especially ones that don’t involve long queues, hidden fees, or language confusion.

That’s why we’re always working to compare the best eSIM offers, highlight new connectivity tech, and make it easier for travelers to plan ahead.

A Few Quick Tips Based on What We Learned

Whether you’re part of the early birds or last-minute planners, here’s how to make your mobile data setup smoother:

• Look into eSIMs – They’re affordable, work instantly, and are perfect for multi-country trips.
• Don’t wait until the hotel – You’ll lose out on precious time and flexibility.
• Avoid airport SIM kiosks if possible – They’re convenient, yes, but rarely the best value.
• Pre-purchase online – You can compare prices, read reviews, and get activated before your plane lands.

So, Where Do You Stand?

Did you see yourself in one of these groups? Are you the planner who installs an eSIM the night before departure or the traveler frantically connecting to airport Wi-Fi to download Google Maps?

Either way, the trend is clear: travelers are becoming more proactive, tech-savvy, and data-conscious. And at Alertify, we’ll keep helping you stay ahead of the curve—no matter where your journey takes you.

Want to discover the best data options for your next trip? Head to our eSIM deals section and compare plans from trusted global providers. Or check out the best eSIM finder tool and find the best eSIM for your needs.

Because the best adventures happen when you’re connected. when to get mobile data for travel 

Here is a new one, this week’s poll: