What “unlimited” data really means
Every unlimited travel plan has a limit somewhere. Sellers differ in how clearly they say it. Here is how it works, and how to read a plan card.
A daily amount at full speed
An unlimited plan gives you a set amount of data each day at full speed, often 1 to 5 GB. On QuikRoam the plan card states that amount, for example 2 GB a day.
Then a slower speed, not a cut-off
After the daily amount you stay connected at a reduced speed until the next day. The card states that speed too, for example 1 Mbps. That is enough for maps, messages, email and music. Video will play in low quality or stall.
When the day starts again
The daily amount resets once every 24 hours, on the network's own clock, which may not be midnight where you are.
Unlimited or a fixed amount?
If you mostly use maps, messages and browsing, a fixed plan of a few gigabytes usually costs less and never slows down. Unlimited makes sense when you work from your phone all day, share your connection, or do not want to think about it.