How much data do WhatsApp, Instagram, Maps and Netflix really use
When choosing an eSIM plan for a trip, the biggest question is always the same: how many GB do I actually need? The answer depends on which apps you use and how.
In this article we go through the most commonly used travel apps and explain what affects their data usage the most, so you can more easily judge which plan in the GoConnect app suits you.
WhatsApp: text is cheap, video calls are not
Text messages and voice notes on WhatsApp barely touch your data - just a few kilobytes per message. Photos and short videos use noticeably more, especially if sent in original quality.
The biggest consumer is video calls. A longer video call on WhatsApp while traveling can use more data than a full day of texting, so plan them for when you have enough GB left or are on WiFi.
Instagram and social media
Scrolling the feed and watching Reels or Stories falls into the medium-to-heavy category, since it's essentially a continuous video stream. The longer you scroll, the more data goes out, even if each clip is short.
- Posting a photo - light usage
- Watching Stories and Reels - medium to heavy usage
- Live streams and video uploads - heaviest usage
- Turning on 'data saver' in the app noticeably cuts usage
Google Maps: navigation is cheaper than you think
Turn-by-turn navigation with voice guidance uses relatively little data, since mostly map tiles and your position are transmitted, not video.
The best trick is to download the region's map in advance, while on WiFi, and use it offline. That way Maps works even without signal, and when you do need data, usage stays minimal.
Netflix and streaming: the absolute champion of usage
Video streaming is by far the heaviest data consumer of all the apps mentioned. An hour of watching in standard quality can use noticeably more than a whole day of WhatsApp and Maps combined, and HD or 4K quality pushes it even higher.
- Download episodes in advance on WiFi for offline viewing
- Lower the streaming quality in the app settings
- Save streaming for moments when you have hotel WiFi access
How to apply this when choosing an eSIM plan
If you're traveling for a few days and mostly texting, navigating and occasionally scrolling Instagram, a smaller plan will be plenty. If you plan on watching shows or making frequent video calls, consider a bigger or unlimited plan.
Frequently asked questions
Which app uses the most data?
Video streaming, like Netflix and YouTube, is by far the heaviest, well above messaging or navigation.
Does Google Maps work without internet?
Yes, if you download the region's map on WiFi beforehand, Maps can navigate offline with minimal data used afterwards.
How do I reduce Instagram's data use?
Turn on the data saver option in the app settings and limit autoplay of videos.
How do I check my usage in the GoConnect app?
Your dashboard shows real-time usage, with a warning once you reach 80% of your plan.