How much data do you need for two weeks in Europe?
A simple way to work out how much mobile data you need for a two-week Europe trip, with real usage numbers for maps, social media, video calls and streaming.
For two weeks in Europe, most travelers need 10 to 20 GB. Light users who mostly use maps and messaging can manage with 5 to 7 GB. Heavy users who stream, upload videos or work remotely should get 30 GB or unlimited.
How much data common apps use
Activity Data used (approximate)
Google Maps navigation, 1 hour 5 to 10 MB
WhatsApp messages, a day of normal chatting 5 to 20 MB
Sending one photo 1 to 3 MB
WhatsApp or FaceTime voice call, 1 hour 30 to 60 MB
Video call, 1 hour 300 MB to 1 GB
Instagram or TikTok scrolling, 1 hour 500 MB to 1.5 GB
Streaming music, 1 hour 50 to 150 MB
Streaming HD video, 1 hour 1.5 to 3 GB
Scrolling short videos and video calls use the most data. Maps and messaging use very little.
Three typical travelers
The light user: about 0.5 GB a day, 7 GB for two weeks. Maps, messaging, booking trains, checking restaurant reviews. Social media mostly on hotel Wi-Fi.
The normal user: about 1 GB a day, 15 GB for two weeks. All of the above, plus Instagram stories, photo uploads and a few video calls home.
The heavy user: 2 GB or more a day, 30 GB or unlimited. Streams on trains, makes daily video calls, works from cafes or shares the connection with a laptop or family member.
One plan or one per country?
If you're visiting several countries, a Europe regional plan is easier than buying one per country. One eSIM covers all the countries listed on the plan, and you don't need to switch anything at the border. Check the plan's country list before you buy, especially for the UK, Switzerland, Turkey and the Balkans. Not every Europe plan includes them.
Five ways to make your data last
Download offline maps for each city before you leave.
Turn off auto-play videos in Instagram, Facebook and X.
Back up photos on Wi-Fi only. iCloud and Google Photos have a setting for this.
Download playlists and shows at the hotel instead of streaming on the go.
Check your usage in your phone's settings after the first two days, then adjust.
What if you run out?
On plans that offer top-ups, you can add data to the same eSIM from the app or website, with no new QR code. Pick a plan that covers your trip with a little margin. Topping up is easy if you need more.
Bottom line
Two weeks in Europe usually means 10 to 20 GB. Pick the profile above that sounds like you, and choose a regional plan if you're crossing borders. See Europe eSIM plans .