Mobile data connectivity increasingly viewed as essential for travel safety

Research commissioned by travel eSIM provider Saily indicates that mobile data has become a critical component of travel safety. According to the study, 32% of Australians who traveled internationally in the last two years reported feeling somewhat or very unsafe without mobile data access. This level of concern is among the highest globally, trailing only Italy and Spain.

Across eight surveyed markets, including the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom, 29% of international travelers expressed safety concerns regarding a lack of connectivity. Saily CEO Vykintas Maknickas noted that travelers rely on data for essential tasks such as navigating unfamiliar locations, accessing boarding passes, translating languages, and contacting emergency services or family.

The study found that younger travelers and women were more likely to feel vulnerable without internet access, while travelers in the 45 to 54 age bracket reported higher confidence traveling offline. To mitigate risks, experts suggest downloading offline maps, saving emergency details locally, and carrying power banks.