When traveling abroad, it is common to notice that your phone stays on LTE instead of switching to 4G or 5G, which can be confusing in places where faster networks are available. In most cases, this does not mean there is a problem with your device and is often related to network conditions, settings, or roaming limitations. This post explains what LTE means while traveling, why your phone may remain on LTE, and what you can do about it.

What Does LTE Mean When You Are Traveling?

LTE stands for Long Term Evolution and refers to a type of mobile data technology commonly associated with 4G networks. When traveling, LTE often appears because it is widely supported and offers more consistent coverage across different regions, even where 4G or 5G networks are available. For this reason, your phone may stay on LTE to maintain a stable connection rather than switching to a faster but less reliable network.

For more information, you can also read our post on What Does LTE Mean on iPhone.

Common Reasons Your Phone Is Stuck on LTE Abroad

There are several common reasons why a phone may stay on LTE while traveling. Some of the most common ones include:

• Network congestion or weak signal: Your phone may stay on LTE if it provides a more stable connection than available 4G or 5G networks, especially in busy areas or locations with limited coverage.

• Manual network selection: If your phone is set to manually select a network, it may not switch automatically to a different or faster network when you travel to another country or region.

• Carrier or plan limitations: Some roaming agreements only support LTE in certain locations, even if faster networks are available locally.

• Phone network settings: Certain settings may prioritize LTE to balance performance and battery usage instead of switching to higher-speed networks.

• Temporary software issue: In some cases, the phone may need a refresh to properly scan and connect to available networks.

How to Fix LTE Issues While Traveling Abroad

If your phone stays on LTE while traveling abroad, there are a few basic steps you can try to refresh the connection and check whether other network options are available. These steps do not guarantee access to faster networks, but they can help rule out common device-related issues.

• Restart the device: Restarting your phone can refresh its connection and prompt it to scan for available networks again.

• Toggle Airplane Mode: Turning Airplane Mode on for a few seconds and then off can force the phone to reconnect to the local network.

• Check automatic network selection: Make sure your phone is set to select networks automatically, as manual selection can prevent switching to other available networks.

• Verify data roaming is enabled: Data roaming must be enabled for international mobile data access, but connection type and performance still depend on local network availability and roaming agreements.

Note: If LTE remains the active connection after trying these steps, the limitation is likely related to local network coverage or roaming agreements rather than your phone settings.

For more information, you can also read our posts on What is Mobile Data, What is Data Roaming, and Data Roaming On or Off.

When LTE is Related to Local Network Conditions

In some cases, staying on LTE has less to do with your phone and more to do with the local network itself. Mobile networks may keep devices on LTE because it provides more reliable coverage, even in places where 4G or 5G is available. Factors such as limited infrastructure, coverage gaps outside major cities, or high network traffic can all affect which connection type is used. In these situations, changing phone settings may not result in a different network connection.

Using Mobile Data Abroad with a Global eSIM

A global eSIM, such as Roamless, is an alternative option to traditional roaming when traveling abroad. It allows you to access mobile data through local networks, offering benefits such as simplified network selection and reduced reliance on public WiFi. Here’s how an eSIM can help:

• Automatic network selection: Your device will automatically connect to supported local networks, reducing the need for manual settings adjustments.

• No reliance on roaming agreements: Unlike traditional roaming, an eSIM connects you directly to local networks, eliminating the need for roaming agreements.

• Reduces public WiFi dependency: By using mobile data instead of relying on public WiFi, your connection remains more secure and reliable.

• Global coverage: A global eSIM like Roamless provides access to networks in over 200 destinations, ensuring seamless connectivity wherever you are.

Note: While a global eSIM can provide more stable and reliable connections, it does not automatically guarantee that your phone will avoid staying on LTE. The LTE issue may persist if the local network prioritizes LTE over 4G or 5G.

For more information, you can also read our post on eSIM 5G Compatibility.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is LTE enough for daily use while traveling?

Yes, LTE is typically sufficient for browsing the web, using online maps, and checking emails while traveling. However, if you need faster speeds for tasks like video streaming, it may feel slower than 4G or 5G.

Can I make my phone switch to 5G while traveling?

While traveling, your phone will typically connect to the fastest available network. If 5G is available and your phone is compatible with the local network’s 5G bands, it will switch to 5G. However, if 5G isn’t supported or coverage is limited, your phone will default to LTE or 4G.

Is LTE more commonly used than 5G in some countries?

While LTE is still widely used in many regions, 5G networks are becoming more common and are increasingly available, especially in larger cities. However, the availability of 5G may still vary depending on the country and local infrastructure.

Does using an eSIM affect whether my phone connects to LTE or 5G abroad?

Using an eSIM does not affect the network connection type. However, a global eSIM can help you connect to local networks more reliably and reduce the need for roaming agreements, which may improve overall network performance.

Why does my phone switch between LTE and 4G while traveling?

Your phone may switch between LTE and 4G based on the local network conditions, such as signal strength, network congestion, or coverage availability. This is a normal behavior to ensure the best possible connection at any given time.