What common apps really use
- Google / Apple Maps navigation: ~5 MB per hour (download offline maps and it is close to zero).
- WhatsApp / iMessage text: negligible. Voice calls ~0.5 MB/min, video calls ~5 MB/min.
- Instagram / TikTok scrolling: 100โ200 MB per 15 minutes โ the biggest hidden drain.
- Spotify streaming: ~40 MB/hour at normal quality.
- YouTube / Netflix at 720p: ~1 GB per hour.
- Uploading photos to iCloud / Google Photos: 3โ5 MB per photo, often 1โ2 GB per day if left on.
Recommendations by trip length
- Layover or 1โ2 days: 1 GB.
- Long weekend (3โ4 days): 3 GB.
- One week: 5 GB (the most popular choice for a reason).
- Two weeks: 5 GB if you are disciplined about photo backup on Wi-Fi, 10 GB if not.
- A month or working remotely: 20 GB.
Five settings that cut usage in half
- Turn off photo/video backup over cellular.
- Set Instagram and TikTok to "Use less data" / Wi-Fi-only autoplay.
- Download offline maps for each city before you go.
- Disable automatic app updates over cellular.
- Turn on Low Data Mode (iPhone) or Data Saver (Android).
Why it is fine to under-buy
With eSIM BFF you can top up from the dashboard even when your balance is at zero, so running out is a two-minute inconvenience rather than a problem. Buy the plan that covers your normal day and add more only if you need it.