Videos
Downloading for a trip: how much storage you really need
Offline downloads save a long flight, but video fills storage fast. A little planning keeps your phone usable for photos when you land.
Video is the biggest storage user by far, and the size depends mostly on the quality setting you download at.
Plan your downloads
- Check the app's download quality setting. Standard quality is usually plenty on a phone and uses a fraction of the space.
- Count hours, not titles. Estimate the flight time plus a buffer.
- Mix formats. Audiobooks and offline games use much less space than video.
Before you leave
- Download on home Wi-Fi the night before.
- Open each download once to confirm it plays offline.
- Pack headphones and a charger.
After the trip
Delete what you've watched. Some apps can do this automatically.
Some downloads expire after a set time or need you to go online again. Check the app's offline rules.