Smartphone Communication during Overseas Travel: Insights from ITSUKI's Survey
In a recent survey that garnered insights into the communication methods utilized by travelers abroad, it was revealed that international roaming stands out as the primary choice among users. Conducted by ITSUKI, a company based in Tokyo, Japan, the survey focused on individuals aged 20 to 50 who had traveled overseas in the past year. The research provides a detailed perspective on smartphone communication preferences, costs involved, and any inconveniences faced during international travel.
Background of the Survey
Following a period marked by travel restrictions due to the COVID-19 pandemic, more people are setting their sights on international journeys. In an era where smartphones serve as essential tools for information gathering, cashless payments, and social interactions, a reliable internet connection has become indispensable for a comfortable travel experience. However, with numerous communication options emerging—including rental mobile Wi-Fi, international roaming services from telecom providers, and increasingly popular eSIM technology—travelers may find themselves grappling with the decision of which method to choose. ITSUKI aimed to uncover the real experiences and preferences concerning these communications among recent international travelers.
Survey Summary
The survey results indicate that the top three communication methods used by travelers include:
1. International Roaming (22.8%)
2. eSIM (22.1%)
3. Rental Mobile Wi-Fi (21.8%)
When asked why they chose their preferred communication method, a significant portion (47.5%) stated they opted for options they had previously used, which they felt were reliable. Furthermore, the most common expenditure on communication while traveling overseas ranged from 1,000 to 3,000 yen, with quality and stability being the key factors influencing their choices. Surprisingly, travelers also reported concerns about unstable connections and hefty roaming fees.
For their next trips, travelers expressed a desire to utilize eSIM technology (27.2%), followed closely by rental mobile Wi-Fi and international roaming—both rated equally.
Deep Dive into Communication Choices
When diving deeper, travelers highlighted various aspects that influenced their communication choices:
1.
Reputation and Reliability: For 47.5%, the familiarity of previously used communication methods significantly impacted their decision-making process.
2.
Cost Considerations: Many travelers (45%) were also swayed by low costs and the convenience of each option.
3.
Stability and Quality: With the importance of a stable internet connection at the forefront, this was rated the most critical factor (30%) in their selection process.
Challenges Faced by Travelers
Despite the overwhelming comfort with their chosen communication methods, respondents voiced common issues. A notable 28.1% were troubled by fluctuating connectivity, while 25.9% worried about potential high roaming charges. Some even mentioned slow internet speeds as a problem. Clearly, these challenges suggest that while many are satisfied with their options, there is still considerable room for improvement in international communications.
ITSUKI's Innovations
ITSUKI's innovative
Cloud Wi-Fi service stands out, offering an automatic connection to the most optimal carrier based on the user’s location. This may solve many of the connectivity issues identified in the survey, allowing travelers to connect easily without elaborate setups. Given its ability to connect multiple devices via a single router, it's an appealing choice for globe-trotters seeking reliability in their connectivity.
Conclusion
Conclusively, ITUKI's survey highlights key insights into the smartphone communication preferences among recent travelers. The dominance of international roaming, the rising popularity of eSIM, and an enduring interest in rental mobile Wi-Fi reflect an evolving landscape in travel connectivity. As travelers prioritize not just the reliability but also the quality of their internet connections, innovative solutions like Cloud Wi-Fi could pave the way for a more seamless online experience abroad.
For further details about ITSUKI and their services, including Cloud Wi-Fi, visit their official website. Understanding the needs and challenges of today’s travelers remains paramount, and companies like ITSUKI are at the forefront of providing necessary solutions.