Did you know that 44% of people lose their smartphones due to theft while traveling? Given this alarming statistic, the IDA- International Drivers Association team suggests a practical solution: utilizing an inexpensive smartphone for your travels.
Why it’s better to use a cheap smartphone when traveling
According to IDA, “Travel light and save your worries for the journey.” Motoring Expert for IDA, Dominic Wyatt advises that this is especially true in the digital age, where smartphones have become irreplaceable travel partners. However, choosing the best phone for your journey might be about something other than the latest model; instead, opting for a cheaper smartphone can save you stress and offer some unexpected advantages.
“Cheap smartphones are often underrated. They do not grab the spotlight like the latest flagship models, but their loyalty and utility are undeniable; they allow us to accomplish most of our tasks without burning a hole in our pockets. Traveling is one area where these unpretentious devices shine the most.” he says
The role of smartphones in traveling
According to a report from the Knowledge Bank, smartphones have revolutionized how we travel. They have become our assistants on the road, making navigating unfamiliar locations, booking accommodations, or translating foreign languages easier. With many applications available, travelers can quickly access maps, check flight statuses, find local eateries, and much more. All these conveniences are held in the palm of our hand.
“Furthermore, smartphones also allow us to capture our travel experiences. With ever-improving camera qualities, more and more travelers leave their bulky DSLRs at home, entrusting their cherished travel moments to their smartphones. They enable us to share our experiences, keep in touch with our loved ones, and, for some, even work remotely while on the go. Traveling without a smartphone today seems unimaginable.” he adds
Reasons to prefer a cheap smartphone
Choosing a cheaper smartphone for traveling is more than compromising your travel experience. According to a study by Lookout, 44% of people lose their smartphones when traveling because of theft.
According to a Quora survey, cheap smartphones are sturdy companions on the road, often offering better battery life than their high-end counterparts. This is crucial when exploring remote areas with limited access to charging facilities. A study by KimKomando showed that budget smartphones like Xiaomi and Realme outperformed several flagship models in battery performance.
“Another advantage of traveling with a cheap smartphone lies in its versatility. These smartphones, which are usually unlocked, allow you to switch to local SIM cards easily, ensuring cost-effective communication. This can save you significant money, especially on international trips with excessive roaming charges.” he adds
Safety tips while using smartphones for travel
He advises that while using smartphones while traveling is convenient, but it is also crucial to use them safely.
“Keep your device password-protected and use biometrics if possible. Always avoid using public Wi-Fi networks for sensitive transactions, as hackers can easily target them. Instead, use VPN services or your cellular data.” he says
“Also, consider installing apps that can help you track your phone if you lose it. Most importantly, regularly back up all your important documents, photos, and other data using a cloud service. This will ensure that even if you lose your phone on the journey, you won’t lose your valuable data and memories.” he adds
Choosing the right travel Mate
“In conclusion, it’s clear that a cost-effective smartphone can be an excellent travel companion, offering both practicality and peace of mind. Dominic Wyatt of the International Drivers Association aptly sums it up: “When you’re on the road, it’s not about the price tag or the brand name. It’s about functionality and reliability.”
“So, next time you pack your bags, reconsider if the high-end device is the best option for your journey. The right smartphone for travel is the cheap one that meets your needs and keeps you worry-free.” he concludes
Source: internationaldriversassociation.com
 
 
 The post Why Budget-Friendly Smartphones are Perfect for Travelers first appeared on IT News Africa | Business Technology, Telecoms and Startup News.