A Guide to Mobile Data Roaming: What You Need to Know Before Travelling

Imagine this: You're off on an adventure abroad, far from the comfort of your home Wi-Fi. How do you keep in touch with family, find your way around with Google Maps, or share your amazing trip on social media? Ideally, you’d have sorted out your roaming before leaving, but we’re all human! With all the packing and planning, it's easy to overlook. Most of the time, just flipping a switch in your phone settings does the trick. But sometimes, a little more effort is needed. Let's dive in and sort it out together!

What exactly is data roaming

The easiest way to describe data roaming is to look at it like your phone's passport. When you venture beyond the UK, your mobile mingles with the local mobile networks, so you can keep texting, Googling, and posting to your heart's content. While data roaming is easily accessible, treating it like a precious resource is sometimes essential. Not all countries are equally generous hosts; some might charge you more for their services, so you might want to consider a temporary solution while abroad. We'll go through all your options below, but first, let's get you connected.

How to turn data roaming on Android

Open your Settings > Mobile Data > Data Roaming toggle switch. Flip it on, and voilà!

How to turn data roaming on iPhone

Open your Settings > Mobile Data > Mobile Data Options > Roaming On. Easy-peasy!

What if you've switched the toggle and nothing happens

"Have you tried turning it off and on again?"

- random geeky guy on the internet

Jokes aside, there are a few common troubleshooting you can do by yourself to make sure you're back online while travelling abroad.

This one's a no-brainer, but you should verify that you have an active international data roaming plan with your carrier. You may need to activate it before travelling. If your roaming is active but you still have no luck, you can try the following:

• Adjust your phone's network mode to "Automatic" to switch between available networks.
• If that didn't work, you might need to manually select a network in your phone's settings to ensure you're connected to a compatible carrier.
• Also, you can make sure your Access Point Name (APN) settings are correctly configured for the network you're using. You can find these settings on your carrier's website.

Managing roaming costs: traditional contracts vs. SIM-Only plans

Got your roaming up and running? Great! Now, let's talk about costs. Roaming charges can be a hassle, but you can dodge those hefty fees with some planning. First, check if your provider charges a daily rate or per text, minute, or megabyte of data. Some providers can charge you both if you exceed your limits, which can get pricey – think £6 per megabyte!

Choosing between a traditional mobile contract and a SIM-only roaming data plan can make a huge difference. Traditional contracts might not offer enough roaming data, especially post-Brexit. SIM-only plans, on the other hand, give you more flexibility and better rates for international data. Providers like GiffGaff, Tesco Mobile, and SMARTY offer great SIM-only deals with generous roaming allowances in the EEA and beyond.

• First, we have Vodafone, which offers a range of roaming packages for both short trips and extended stays. Their Global Roaming plan allows you to use your data, call, and text allowances in 77 destinations worldwide without extra charges. ➡️ Vodafone Roaming Deals

• Second, we have O2 with their Travel Inclusive Zone feature, which covers 75 destinations. This feature allows you to use your normal plan’s data, minutes, and texts with no extra charges. It is included in some of their more premium plans, so be sure to check the details. ➡️ O2 Roaming Deals

• Third is EE, with their Travel Data Pass, which lets you use your data allowance in a selection of countries for a daily fee. This is great for keeping your data costs predictable while abroad. ➡️ EE Roaming Deals

Choosing the best roaming deal on your phone contract

Since Brexit, UK mobile users have faced changes in roaming policies and charges within the EU. Here are some recommended roaming features to look for when selecting a mobile contract in the UK post-Brexit:

1. Inclusive roaming allowances

Many providers offer plans that include roaming allowances for data, calls, and texts in various destinations. Look for contracts that specify a set amount of data, minutes, and texts that can be used while abroad without extra charges.

• Example: Vodafone's Global Roaming Plus includes 83 destinations, allowing you to use your UK plan’s allowances abroad without additional costs.

2. Daily roaming passes

For frequent travelers, daily roaming passes can be a cost-effective way to manage roaming charges. These passes typically allow you to use your plan's allowances for a fixed daily fee.

• Example: EE's Roaming Pass lets you use your UK allowances in select countries for a daily fee of £2.

3. Data caps and alerts

To avoid bill shock, choose a contract that offers data caps and usage alerts. These features notify you when you’re nearing your data limit and can help you manage your usage effectively.

• Example: O2's Roaming Cap allows you to set a maximum limit on your roaming spend, providing alerts as you approach your limit.

4. Multi-country coverage

Some mobile contracts offer extensive coverage across multiple countries, including non-EU destinations. This can be beneficial for travelers visiting several countries.

• Example: Three’s Go Roam provides inclusive roaming in over 70 countries worldwide, covering destinations both within and outside the EU.

5. Flexible roaming add-ons

Look for providers that offer flexible roaming add-ons that can be activated as needed. These add-ons can provide additional data or extend your roaming coverage for a specific period.

• Example: BT Mobile offers Travel Data Passes that provide extra data in 47 destinations for a small daily fee.

Brexit and mobile data roaming charges

Is roaming still free in the UK? Before Brexit, EU roaming rules allowed you to use your phone's goodies across 28 EU destinations without extra charges. But post-Brexit, things have changed. Technically, you can no longer enjoy the benefit of free EU roaming protection anymore.

Now, Brits might face roaming charges depending on their network. Many networks have reintroduced charges, set return dates, or decided to keep roaming free for their customers. Chat with your network before heading to your next adventure to avoid surprise bills.

Which UK mobile provider doesn't charge extra for roaming in 2024? As of 2023, the following UK mobile providers do not charge extra for roaming in the European Economic Area (EEA):

• O2
• giffgaff
• Tesco Mobile
• Asda Mobile
• iD Mobile
• SMARTY
• Lycamobile
• Lebara

These providers offer "roam like home" plans, meaning you can use your UK allowances of calls, texts, and data in the EEA without extra charges. However, a fair usage policy may be in place, limiting the data you can use while you're away.

It is important to note that these providers may start charging for roaming. So, checking with your provider before travelling to see their current policy is always a good idea. Network providers typically have this information on their website, but you can always call them if you're stuck.

Take Vodafone, for example. You can quickly verify Vodafone roaming charges for all countries by following a mobile data roaming checker designed to give you all the mobile roaming fata information you need before travelling.

The best part is that most mobile networks nowadays offer special extras and goodie bags you can add to your deal for both contract and pay-as-you-go. Log in to your account and follow the steps to get the best roaming deal. And if you don't like what you find, you can always make a temporary or permanent switch. For example, following the example above with Japan, the costs would be excessive for a regular budget, so considering going with a local provider or purchasing a portable wifi sounds sensible.

Roaming charges around the world

Are you curious about specific destinations? Let's take a whirlwind tour!

Roaming in the EU: Some networks like O2, Giffgaff, and Lebara still offer free EU roaming in their plans. Others charge daily rates and extra fees if you go over your allowances. Always check the fine print.

Roaming Outside the EU: Venturing beyond Europe? Be prepared to open your wallet wider. The government added VAT to roaming charges outside the EU, potentially racking up bills over £100. Each network offers different add-ons and allowances, so research your options.

Roaming in Ireland: Northern Ireland is a free-roaming paradise since it's part of the UK. The Republic of Ireland also extends this courtesy to UK visitors. Still, it's wise to consult your provider for details.

Roaming in the US: Roaming in the US can be pricey, but some networks offer inclusive roaming packages. Vodafone, Three, O2, and Sky Mobile all have options, so choose wisely based on your needs.

Roaming in Turkey: Vodafone includes Turkey in its Xtra packages, but others charge extra for internet services. Be sure to check your network's terms.

Roaming in India: Lebara's plans include free roaming in India – a great deal for travellers to this vibrant country.

Roaming in Dubai (UAE): The UAE can be expensive for roaming. While some networks offer daily passes, costs can add up quickly. Look for options like Sky Mobile's Roaming Passport.

Common roaming pitfalls and how to avoid them

1. Exceeding Data Allowances

One of the most common ways people get overcharged is by exceeding their data allowance while roaming. Mobile data can be consumed faster than expected, especially with activities like streaming videos, downloading large files, or even constant background app updates.

• Avoidance Tip: Before you travel, check your data allowance with your provider and monitor your usage closely. Many smartphones have built-in data usage monitors that alert you when you’re nearing your limit. Additionally, download maps, music, and other essentials before you leave the UK to minimize data usage abroad.

2. Using Data in Non-EU Countries

While the EU’s Roam Like at Home policy allows UK residents to use their mobile data without extra charges in EU countries, this doesn’t apply to non-EU countries. Charges can rack up quickly if you’re not careful.

• Avoidance Tip: Before you travel, verify the roaming charges for your destination country with your provider. If you plan to stay for an extended period, consider purchasing a local SIM card, as this can often be a cheaper alternative.

3. Unintentional Roaming Near Borders

If you’re near the border of a country that’s not included in your roaming plan, your phone might connect to a foreign network without you realizing it, leading to unexpected charges.

• Avoidance Tip: To avoid accidental roaming, manually select your network in your phone’s settings. Most smartphones allow you to lock your network to your home country’s provider.

Prepaid SIM or international SIM

If your network doesn't offer roaming where you're going, explore international SIMs or local prepaid SIMs upon arrival. Each has pros and cons, so choose what suits your adventure best.

Data roaming: to roam or not to roam

Data roaming isn't just for jet-setters – it's handy at home, too! Keep it on to enjoy a better mobile experience, even in the UK's hidden signal spots. When abroad, assess your options: use data roaming if it's affordable, or stick to Wi-Fi if it's not. Just remember to:

✔️ Embrace Free Wi-Fi: Hunt down free Wi-Fi at hotels and cafes. Just watch out for time limits and coverage areas.

✔️ Roaming Add-ons: Many carriers offer affordable add-ons with data, texts, and minutes for your trip. Check with your network for details.

✔️ Mind Usage Caps: Networks usually cap your roaming data allowance below your home limit. Don't opt out, or you might lose track of your spending.

✔️ Local SIM or eSIM: Consider buying a local SIM or eSIM for better rates on calls and data, especially for longer stays.

✔️ EU Regulations: Not all countries follow EU usage caps. For example, Turkey, Northern Cyprus, and Egypt have their own rules. Check before you roam.

Back to you

Ready to find the perfect roaming deal? Check out our curated selection of roaming deals from top network providers and confidently travel! Safe travels, and may your mobile signal always be strong!