How Internet Outages Abroad Can Affect Your Travels (and How to Prepare)

In today’s connected world, traveling without the internet feels almost unthinkable. From navigating unfamiliar streets to booking last-minute accommodations, we rely on our phones for just about everything while abroad. But what happens when the internet suddenly goes out in the country you’re visiting?

Internet outages abroad can throw a serious wrench into your travel plans — but with a little foresight, you can stay one step ahead. Here’s how outages can affect travelers, real-world examples of where it happens, and practical tips to prepare so your trip doesn’t grind to a halt.

Why Internet Outages Happen Abroad

Before diving into how they affect travelers, it helps to understand why they happen in the first place. Internet disruptions abroad can stem from:

  • Government restrictions or blackouts — Some countries temporarily shut down internet access during protests, elections, or security concerns.
  • Technical failures — Server crashes, undersea cable damage, or power grid failures can bring entire regions offline.
  • Natural disasters — Earthquakes, storms, and wildfires can knock out infrastructure, affecting both internet and mobile networks.
  • Cyberattacks — Large-scale DDoS attacks or hacking incidents can disrupt internet service on a national level.

How Internet Outages Affect Travelers

1. Navigation Becomes Tricky

Google Maps, Apple Maps, and ride-hailing apps like Uber rely heavily on internet connectivity. Without them, even simple tasks like finding your hotel or the nearest train station can become a challenge.

Tip: Download offline maps for the cities or countries you’ll be visiting before you go.

2. Booking and Check-Ins Are Delayed

Many travelers book accommodations, train tickets, or flights on the fly using booking apps or websites. If the internet is down, you may not be able to confirm a room, check into your flight, or show your e-ticket at the gate.

Tip: Always carry a printed copy of your flight and hotel confirmations, just in case.

3. Payments Can Get Complicated

In regions where cashless payments dominate, a lack of internet can leave you stuck. Apps like Alipay, PayPal, or even card terminals that require live connections might not work during outages.

Tip: Carry a small amount of local currency as a backup for taxis, meals, or emergencies.

4. Communication With Loved Ones Gets Cut

We rely on WhatsApp, Messenger, or FaceTime to stay in touch with friends and family back home. During outages, sending a simple “I’m safe” message may not be possible, which can cause unnecessary worry.

Tip: Let your family know your travel itinerary in advance and agree on check-in times. That way, they won’t panic if you go offline unexpectedly.

5. Research and Translation Become Harder

Need to look up a restaurant menu or translate a phrase into the local language? No internet means no instant access to information.

Tip: Download translation apps (like Google Translate) with offline language packs so you’re covered.

6. Business Travelers Face Delays

For remote workers or business travelers, internet outages can be more than an inconvenience — they can mean missed deadlines, canceled video calls, and lost productivity.

Tip: If traveling for work, ask hotels about backup connectivity options or check if co-working spaces nearby have satellite or independent internet providers.

Real-World Examples of Internet Outages Abroad

Egypt (2011): During political unrest, the government ordered a nationwide internet shutdown, cutting off millions from online access.

Sri Lanka (2019): Authorities blocked social media platforms temporarily after security concerns.

South Pacific (2019): Tonga was left largely offline for days after damage to an undersea cable disrupted the nation’s main internet connection.

Canada (2022): A massive telecom outage left millions without internet and mobile service, even disrupting ATMs and payment systems.

These examples highlight that outages don’t just happen in one part of the world — they can occur anywhere, at any time.

How to Prepare for Internet Outages While Traveling

The good news? With a little preparation, you can minimize the impact of unexpected outages.

  • Download Offline Maps and Apps: Tools like Google Maps, Citymapper, and Rome2Rio allow you to save offline versions of routes and schedules.
  • Carry Essential Travel Documents in Print: Flight details, hotel confirmations, travel insurance info, and emergency contacts should all be saved as hard copies.
  • Use Local SIM Cards or eSIMs: Having multiple network options increases your chances of staying connected if one provider goes down.
  • Bring a Portable Wi-Fi Hotspot: Some hotspots can switch between providers or even use satellite connections for backup.
  • Install Offline Entertainment: Load up ebooks, podcasts, or movies on your device for long waits when streaming isn’t an option.
  • Have a Cash Backup: Even in cashless societies, having a small stash of physical money can be a lifesaver.
  • Stay Informed: Websites like isitdown.today or local news sources can clue you in on outages — though you may need a VPN to access them depending on the region.

Final Thoughts

Internet outages abroad can be inconvenient, stressful, and sometimes even risky. But they don’t have to derail your trip. With a little preparation — offline maps, printed documents, and backup cash — you can travel confidently, knowing you’re ready to handle whatever the digital world throws at you.

Remember: travel is about exploration and experience. Sometimes, being “unplugged” is an opportunity to slow down, connect with your surroundings, and enjoy the journey — Wi-Fi or not.

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