Travel data calculator: how much data do you need for your trip?
Move the sliders for hours per day and get a GB estimate and a plan size. Based on measured per-hour averages for 8 common activities.
Rules of thumb
A typical traveller uses 300MB to 700MB a day, so a 5GB plan covers a one-week trip and 10GB covers two weeks with photos and video calls. The Universal eSIMs data calculator multiplies your hours per day by measured averages: maps 5MB, social 90MB, SD video 500MB, video calls 60MB, music 70MB, browsing 60MB and uploads 150MB per hour.
Figures reviewed on 25 October 2026 · Hotspot allowed on every plan · Full refund if your phone cannot install the eSIM
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Get startedData use per activity, per hour
Measured averages, 2026
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Worked examples
Examples
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Universal eSIMs plans by tier
Four ways to use less data
Set backups to Wi-Fi only
iCloud Photos, Google Photos and WhatsApp media auto-download are the biggest hidden users.
Download offline maps and playlists at the hotel
Maps and music drop to almost nothing.
Turn off video autoplay
In Instagram, X and Facebook settings, set autoplay to Wi-Fi only.
Use Low Data Mode or Data Saver for background apps
But turn it off if hotspot or video calls misbehave.
Real people on WhatsApp, before, during and after the trip.
Install help in minutes, a refund if your phone cannot take the eSIM, and every price shown before checkout.
Frequently asked questions
How much data do I need for a week abroad?
Most travellers use 300MB to 700MB a day, which is 2GB to 5GB for a week. A 5GB plan covers maps, messaging, social media and a few video calls. Add 5GB if you stream video daily or share a hotspot.
How much data does Google Maps use per hour?
About 5MB an hour while navigating, less with offline maps downloaded. A full day of walking navigation is under 50MB.
How much data does Instagram use?
About 90MB an hour of scrolling with video autoplay on, or roughly 1.5MB a minute. Two hours a day over a week is about 1.3GB.
How much data does a WhatsApp video call use?
About 60MB an hour, or 1MB a minute. Voice calls use 0.5 to 1MB a minute.
Should I pick an unlimited plan?
If the calculator shows more than 15GB, or you want to stream HD video, or several people will use your hotspot, yes. Unlimited plans give full speed for 2GB a day, then 3Mbps.
Does hotspot data count?
Yes. Add the hours your laptop or a second phone will use through the hotspot.
What if I run out?
Top up from the app in a minute without a new QR code. Alerts arrive at 80 percent and 100MB. See top-ups.
Full guide: how much data for a trip · Roaming cost calculator · Check your balance
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