Buzz
With the iPad, carrying your work, entertainment, and movies has never been easier. Boasting thousands of apps, the iPad provides endless options to stay entertained and help you navigate wherever you are. Be sure to download everything you might need, such as apps, music, and movies, before your trip. While you're away, consider adjusting a few settings to optimize your iPad’s functionality and security.
Steps
Preparing Your iPad for Travel
Disable data roaming for international trips. When traveling internationally, avoid costly charges by turning off data roaming if you don’t have an international data plan. To disable it, go to "Settings" on your iPad, find "Cellular Data," and switch off the "Data Roaming" toggle (it should appear white, not green).
- Check with your carrier about international data options if you need to use data while abroad. Even with a plan, be cautious, as you can quickly rack up a significant bill. You can track your data usage on the "Cellular Data" settings page.
Preload your entertainment before you travel. Not all planes offer wifi, and even if they do, it might be unreliable. Moreover, you may not have access to wifi or data everywhere you go. It's wise to load your iPad with music, books, and movies ahead of time.
- You don’t need to pay extra for each entertainment item. If you have subscriptions to services like Netflix and Amazon Prime, you can often download content like movies (and music, in Amazon’s case) at no extra cost.
- Also, check with your library for e-books and audiobooks. Many libraries offer these for free on your iPad. You may need to install an app, like Overdrive or Libby (both from Overdrive), to download and access the books. Verify with your library.
- If you have kids, don’t forget to include a few offline games for them to enjoy during the journey.
Install some travel apps to make things easier. Travel apps can assist with finding restaurants, navigating unfamiliar places, and even tracking flight statuses. Some can also help with booking hotels if your trip isn’t fully planned.
- Consider using apps like FlightTrack ($5 USD), Kayak (free), or 1,000 Ultimate Experiences ($20 USD). Review apps such as Zomato, Yelp, and TripAdvisor are also helpful.
- A language translation app and a weather app would also be valuable!
- Don’t forget to download a wifi finder app to locate local wifi networks.
Save Google Maps areas for offline use. When you’re exploring a new city, access to wifi or data might be limited. Google Maps allows you to download specific areas, so you can navigate even without an internet connection.
- Search for the city in Google Maps. Tap the 3 dots, then select "Download area offline."
- If necessary, zoom in using the slider to adjust the download’s detail level.
- Tap "Download," and give the area a name to save it.
- Your offline maps can be accessed via the menu in the upper-left corner under "Offline Maps."
Bring the right plug adapter for your destination. If you’re traveling abroad, it’s likely that the electrical plug will differ from what you’re used to. A plug adapter kit, which includes a range of adapters for different types of plugs worldwide, is your best option.
- If you prefer, research the specific plug type for the country you’re visiting and buy just that adapter.
Store important files in the cloud. When traveling, you often need to keep track of documents like confirmation numbers and itineraries. Even though much of this information is now digital, it’s wise to store everything in one place. The cloud allows you to access these files from your iPad whenever you need them.
- You can use the Files app on your iPad, as long as you’ve updated to iOS 11 or later. You can save files directly to the app or link it to your Mac or PC using iCloud. Just sign in with the same iCloud account on all your devices, then upload your necessary documents.
Update your system and apps a day before you depart. You can find system updates under "Settings" and app updates in the App Store. Your iPad will typically notify you of pending updates with a red badge on the app icon.
- By updating in advance, you’ll avoid the risk of your iPad using data to update while you’re traveling.
Using Your iPad
Take your iPad out while waiting in the airport security line. Airport security now requires devices like iPads, tablets, and Kindles to be removed from your bag for scanning. To save time, have your iPad out and ready while waiting in line.
- Place your iPad in a scanning bin with no other items on top or below it.
- Look for signs to see if you need to remove the iPad from its case for security screening.
Get a local cellular plan with Apple Sim while abroad. If you have an Apple Sim, you can easily purchase a local cellular data plan from the country you're visiting. Just go to "Cellular Data" in Settings, select "Set Up Cellular Data," and choose a carrier to sign up using wifi.
- If you don't have an Apple Sim, head to a local carrier store to get a local sim card, or purchase an Apple Sim before you leave home.
- This is useful if you're staying for a week or more in another country, but not ideal for short stays.
Use internet calling apps to stay in touch with friends and family. Download apps like Skype or Facebook Messenger before you travel. While these apps require a stable internet connection to work, they’re a great way to save on international calling charges, especially if you don’t have an international calling plan.
- Make sure you connect to wifi before using these apps to make calls.
Turn off wifi when it's not needed. If your iPad is always searching for a wifi connection, it will quickly drain your battery. Simply disabling wifi will help conserve your battery life.
- To turn off wifi, swipe up from the bottom of your screen. Tap the button with the wifi symbol, which looks like three expanding curves.
Securing Your iPad
Set a passcode or enable your fingerprint for added security. In the "Settings" menu, go to "Touch ID and Passcode." Click to create a passcode, then enter a 6-digit code. You can also set up your fingerprint scanner here.
- Setting up the fingerprint scanner requires a quick scanning process. Follow the instructions to place your finger on the home button for a few seconds, then move it slightly. Continue until your iPad has read your entire fingerprint.
- Even with the fingerprint scanner activated, you can still use your passcode as an alternative unlock method.
Activate "Find My iPad" for extra security. This feature allows you to locate your iPad if it’s connected to wifi or data. Even if your iPad isn’t online, it’s still useful. If you lose it, you can enable "Lost Mode." When it reconnects to the internet, it will lock automatically to prevent unauthorized access and display your phone number.
- To enable "Find My iPad," go to "Settings," tap on your name at the top, then select "iCloud." Switch on the toggle next to "Find My iPad." The toggle should turn green.
Hide your iPad in a plain bag. If it's obvious you're carrying an iPad, you might become an easy target for pickpockets. Place it in a bag that disguises its shape, like a satchel or purse. Avoid using bags that resemble laptop cases.
Consider getting travel insurance for your iPad. Traveling with your iPad comes with risks. You might lose it, have it stolen, or accidentally damage it, like dropping it while trying to snap a photo. A little insurance can provide peace of mind.
- Travel insurance for your iPad is available through various companies online. You can also check with the same insurance provider that covers your car or home. The cost for iPad travel insurance can start as low as $5 USD per month.
- If you already have travel insurance, verify that your iPad is covered. Also, review any warranties or protection plans you may have to see if your iPad is covered during travel.
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If you plan to work or write emails during your trip, consider purchasing a keyboard for your iPad.
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If you want to watch movies or listen to music with a friend, invest in a headphone splitter.
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A heavy-duty case for your iPad can provide additional protection, especially while traveling.
Warnings
- Be cautious when using your iPad for maps while walking, as it could make you an easy target for pickpockets. Always stay alert and aware of your surroundings.
