How to Monitor Data Usage with a Travel SIM or eSIM

Using a travel SIM or eSIM is a smart way to stay connected while travelling. But without traditional mobile apps or SMS alerts, it can be hard to know exactly how much data you are using — until it is gone.

In this guide, we will show you simple ways to monitor and manage your data usage directly through your phone settings, plus a few smart habits to stretch your data further and avoid surprise cut-offs.

Why Monitoring Your Data Usage Matters

Streaming videos, making video calls, or even just using GPS maps can quickly use up your data allowance especially when roaming or using local mobile networks.

If you are travelling with a roaming SIM or eSIM, you may not have access to an app that tracks your usage, so monitoring through your phone is essential to avoid running out of data mid-journey.

How to Check Your Data Usage on Your Phone

For iPhone Users:

You can check your mobile data usage by following these steps:

Go to Settings
Tap Mobile or Cellular
Scroll down to see Current Period data usage

Note: The “Current Period” does not automatically reset. We recommend resetting your stats when activating a new SIM or starting a new trip. Scroll to the bottom and tap Reset Statistics.

For Android Users:

Steps may vary slightly depending on your device brand, but generally:

Open Settings
Tap Network & Internet or Connections
Select Data Usage
View data usage by SIM or app

You can also tap on your roaming SIM if you are using a dual SIM setup to view usage for that connection specifically.

Set Data Alerts and Limits

Many phones allow you to set warnings or limits for mobile data. This is especially helpful if your plan has a fixed allowance.

Android: In the Data Usage menu, tap Data warning & limit to enable alerts or restrict data usage at a certain amount.
iPhone: iPhones do not offer built-in alerts, but you can manually check and reset stats weekly or use third-party apps (see below).

Use Offline Options Whenever Possible

To make the most of your plan, try these tips:

Download maps on Google Maps before you leave Wi-Fi
Download music or podcasts instead of streaming
Save videos from YouTube or Netflix for offline viewing

Using offline tools not only saves data but also ensures you stay connected even in areas with weak signal.

Try App-Based Data Monitoring

If you want a more detailed breakdown of your data usage by app or day, consider using a monitoring app:

My Data Manager: Tracks daily, weekly, and monthly usage
GlassWire (Android): Offers real-time data tracking and app-specific insights

These apps are helpful for frequent travellers or digital nomads who use different SIMs often.

Bonus Tip: Reset Your Data Stats at the Start of Each Trip

Whether you are using iOS or Android, resetting your mobile data stats when you activate a new SIM helps you keep clean, accurate records of how much data you are using during your trip.

This makes it easier to gauge your average daily usage and plan your next top-up or new purchase accordingly.

Stay in Control While Staying Connected

Monitoring your data is easy once you know where to look. By keeping tabs on your usage, using offline tools, and setting helpful alerts, you can make the most of your travel SIM or eSIM—and avoid running out when it matters most.

Still have questions? Contact our team for help choosing the right data plan or getting your SIM set up properly.