Five of the best travel SIM card deals for Hongkongers, plus tips on alternative options for the holiday season
When it comes to overseas travel it can be tough to know what phone packages are the best value. We take a look at the different data options and give our pick of the SIM packages that won’t leave you high and dry on your holidays
International mobile SIM cards are travel essentials as they can keep you connected during the trip without paying for expensive data roaming charges. But with so many options, how do you choose the right one? Here are four tips and our top SIM picks for different destinations.
Data roaming, pocket Wi-fi or SIM card?
Enabling cellular and data roaming will give you the most stable connection, but it is also the most expensive method, as users are often charged by the megabyte. Some mobile network providers have launched cheaper packages with a fixed daily rate, but with only limited speed and data – so they are still no match for travel SIM cards and pocket Wi-fi.
EU data roaming charges to end this week
If you are travelling in a group or with family, renting a pocket Wi-fi – or Wi-fi eggs as they are known in Hong Kong – is the cheapest option. Rates start from HK$20 per day for Asia and HK$80 for Europe. The battery typically lasts only three to six hours, so most rentals include a portable charger.
The device can be picked up at airports or convenience stores and returned afterwards, but note that most companies charge a penalty for late return and a hefty compensation fee if you lose any of the items.
Pocket Wi-fi routers require you to be within about 10 metres of the device, so if you and your fellow travellers are planning to go separate ways, it is best to get individual SIM cards.
Where to buy them?