Have you ever felt like your data was disappearing faster than expected during a trip to Japan, even though you only used maps and messaging? When preparing a Japan eSIM or Pocket Wi-Fi, it's a good idea to check not just your data limit, but also settings for photo backups, app updates, and background data usage. Here are 5 settings you should change before you depart to help save data.
1. First, Check Which Apps Are Using Your Data
Before purchasing additional data, take a look at your phone's data usage per app. Checking which apps use the most data can help you narrow down the cause, whether it's video streaming, photo backups, or other background tasks.
On iPhone, you can check usage per app under Settings → Cellular. On Android, depending on the model, you can find this in the Mobile Data Usage menu.
When checking, make sure to look at the billing or tracking period. The usage displayed on your phone might not match your actual travel dates, and there may be discrepancies with how your carrier measures data. Be sure to check your actual remaining data using the method provided by your data provider. Apple 사용량 안내, Google 사용량 안내
2. Turn On Low Data Mode or Data Saver Mode
iPhone's Low Data Mode helps reduce data usage by restricting background tasks and automatic downloads.
Here is an example of how to set it up for a 5G line:
Settings → Cellular → Cellular Data Options → Data Mode → Low Data Mode
If you are using Dual SIM, make sure to select the line you will use for data in Japan before configuring this. Menu options may vary depending on your carrier and iOS version. Apple 저데이터 모드 안내
On Google Pixel, you can set this up under Settings → Network & internet → Data Saver. For other Android devices, try searching for "Data Saver" in your Settings search bar.
Even with Data Saver turned on, apps you are actively using can still use mobile data. Since background activity may be restricted depending on the app, make sure your essential apps are still working properly. Google 데이터 절약 모드 안내
3. Back Up Your Travel Photos Using Accommodation Wi-Fi
You will likely take more photos and videos than usual during your trip. If you have allowed mobile data backups in apps like Google Photos, your data can quickly disappear as these files are uploaded.
In Google Photos, check your mobile data usage settings under Profile Picture → Photos settings → Backup. Menu items and options may vary depending on your device.
Rather than turning off backups entirely, we recommend restricting mobile data usage for backups and confirming they are completed over your accommodation's Wi-Fi. Google 포토 백업 안내
On iPhone, iCloud Photos updates may be paused in Low Data Mode, so be sure to check your backup status as well. Apple 안내
There is an easily overlooked detail here for those using Pocket Wi-Fi: when connected to a Pocket Wi-Fi, your phone recognizes it as a standard Wi-Fi connection. Even if you have set your phone to "Back up over Wi-Fi only," it may still consume your Pocket Wi-Fi's data.
If you have a limited data plan, wait until you are connected to your accommodation's internet before running large backups.
4. Complete App Updates and Video Downloads in Advance
Before departing, update your maps, translation, and booking apps at home, and download any content you might need.
On Android, you can configure this as follows:
Google Play → Profile → Settings → Network preferences → Auto-update apps → Over Wi-Fi only
However, Google notes that some updates to fix critical security vulnerabilities may still run regardless of this setting. Google Play 업데이트 안내
On iPhone, automatic updates and downloads in the App Store are restricted when Low Data Mode is enabled. Apple 안내
If there are videos you want to watch or music you want to listen to during your trip, check if the service supports offline downloads and save them before you leave.
Since Pocket Wi-Fi is also a data-consuming service, it is best to handle large downloads using your accommodation's internet.
5. Prepare Offline Maps and Booking Information
Google Maps allows you to download and save maps of supported areas for offline use. Check if your destination is available for download and save it before departing or while connected to your accommodation's Wi-Fi.
However, transit, walking, and cycling directions are not available offline. Relying entirely on offline maps for navigating Japan's train transfers or walking routes could leave you stranded. Google 오프라인 지도 안내
It is best to prepare offline maps as a backup and maintain a data connection for real-time navigation.
Saving your accommodation address, check-in instructions, and booking numbers separately can also be a lifesaver if your connection becomes unstable. Check the service terms to see if screenshots of your tickets are accepted.
Pair Data-Saving Settings with the Right Plan for Your Travel Style
Even after changing your settings, the amount of data you need will depend on your usage habits and itinerary.
Consider whether you are traveling alone and mostly using maps and search, sharing a connection with multiple people, or using laptops and video calls.
When choosing a data plan, it is a good idea to check the following:
- Total data capacity and period of use
- Speed limits or terms of use after data exhaustion
- Tethering/hotspot availability
- Number of people and devices connecting together
Since Pocket Wi-Fi allows multiple devices to share a single data pool, be careful not to choose a plan based on the usage of just one phone.
At KEICALL, you can find eSIMs, Pocket Wi-Fi, and Japanese SIM cards with phone numbers tailored to your stay, whether for travel, studying abroad, or a working holiday.
Let us know your duration of stay, number of users, phone model, and whether you need a Japanese phone number, and we can help you choose the best product. KEICALL 상품 확인 및 상담