logo
How to avoid roaming charges when abroad

How to avoid roaming charges when abroad

Telecoms experts are urging travellers to check if their mobile plans include international roaming – otherwise they could face charges as high as £5 a day.
For a two-week break that comes in at £70 per phone on top of regular mobile charges.
For a family of four that's an additional £280 on their monthly mobile phone bill.
Experts at TelephoneSystems.Cloud are suggesting holidaymakers make use of eSims to bring costs down and make mobile usage overseas affordable.
What is an eSim?
An eSim is a digital version of a SIM card. It allows users to switch to a local provider without taking out your traditional SIM or changing your number.
After landing, mobile users simply change their mobile packing to use the eSim rather than the UK SIM.
Telecoms expert Juliet Moran, said: 'Holidaymakers need to be aware of roaming changes both in Europe and further afield and they need to look at ways to mitigate the extortionate cost passed on by phone providers.
'An eSim is the easiest way to do this. They're already built into your phone and allow you to activate an additional mobile data plan.
'In comparison to roaming charges the cost is minimal. To give you an example, on a recent trip to the USA, my provider was going to charge £5 a day. An eSim plan for a month cost just $12.
'The plans will cover all your data needs including maps, social media, emails, and video calls, with no roaming charges or surprise fees when you get back home.'
Is an eSim a good idea?
Firstly, it's important to check if your phone supports eSIMs.
Most modern smartphones (iPhone XS or later, Google Pixel 3 and newer, Samsung Galaxy S20 and up) support eSIM functionality.
Check your phone settings or manufacturer website if you're unsure.
TelephoneSystems.Cloud issues eSIM advice for Brits
Choose an eSIM provider
Search within the country you are visiting for an eSIM holiday provider. It's quite a competitive market, so it won't take long to find a local supplier offering a good deal on an eSIM.
UK Passport Renewal Guide
Make sure it's contract free for short term use. Check the daily limits for data, even on an unlimited package.
It's easier to find a cheaper provider once you are in the country, so use airport Wi-Fi to get yourself a good local deal.
Install the eSIM during your trip
This is a fairly straightforward task. You will need to:
Download the provider's app or scan a QR code to install the eSIM.
You may need another phone to take a photo of the QR code to install it on your own mobile if you don't have a computer or tablet to hand. Or use the manual eSIM installation process.
Follow the on-screen instructions to activate it.
Set the eSIM as your primary data plan while abroad (you can still receive texts and calls to your UK number if needed).
Recommended Reading:
Use data wisely
Keep an eye on your usage or buy a slightly larger plan to cover streaming and navigation comfortably, as going over those limits can lead to large bills.
Switch back easily when you return
Once home, just toggle your mobile data settings to return to your UK SIM. The eSIM can usually remain installed for future trips or you can just delete it.
Orange background

Try Our AI Features

Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:

Comments

No comments yet...

Related Articles

Warning to Brit tourists planning all-inclusive holidays to Spain
Warning to Brit tourists planning all-inclusive holidays to Spain

Daily Mirror

timean hour ago

  • Daily Mirror

Warning to Brit tourists planning all-inclusive holidays to Spain

Holidaymakers heading to tourist hotspots in Spain have been warned by local police of a spike in robberies and thefts with criminals targeting all-inclusive hotels Brits heading on holiday to Spain this summer have been warned by police about a crime wave hitting all-inclusive hotels. ‌ Police have told tourists to be on their guard after a sudden increase in thefts and robberies from individuals and gangs who are targeting these types of locations. Authorities say that although all-inclusive hotels provide a wide variety of services but "safety is not usually among them." Through a video published on its official TikTok account, the Spanish National Police have issued an alert that highlights "a common and dangerous practice among tourists": neglecting their belongings while enjoying the pools and beaches of hotels. ‌ ‌ The message aims to raise awareness, without alarming, about the need to exercise extreme personal vigilance. "It is essential to remember that travelling to an all-inclusive hotel does not expressly guarantee protection for your personal effects in common areas such as the pool. Therefore, although it is a period to relax and disconnect, it is advisable to stay in control and take measures to avoid unpleasant situations that can spoil your holiday," say the police. All-inclusive holidays are so popular that areas such as swimming pools, bars and beaches within the hotel complex are frequented by a large number of people, making it easy for thieves to strike. Police say holidaymakers leave their bags unattended whilst they swim or enjoy a drink. They are urging tourists not to fully rely on the presence of private security, as there is not always active and constant surveillance in all areas of the hotel is not guaranteed. Thefts tend to increase especially on summer holidays in destinations such as the Costa del Sol, the Costa Blanca, the Balearic Islands and the Canary Islands, where the influx of tourists skyrockets and security measures can be overwhelmed on certain occasions. Police say it is best to always carry your backpack or bag in front of your body, which allows you to view and control its contents at all times. Avoiding leaving personal belongings on the sand or in hammocks unsupervised is a basic tip but essential to prevent theft. Likewise, National Police say keep your possessions to a minimum when you go to the pool or beach. Take only what is necessary for bathing and staying in those areas. Valuables such as watches, jewellery or electronic devices should be kept in the hotel room, preferably in safes if available. In addition, when walking or moving through crowded areas near the accommodation, always keep your wallet, backpack or bag in a frontal position and under continuous surveillance. "Pickpockets take advantage of crowds to act quickly and discreetly, so a preventive attitude can make the difference between enjoying the trip or regretting material losses," they stress.

What is a reasonable budget for a holiday? Expert explains
What is a reasonable budget for a holiday? Expert explains

Rhyl Journal

timean hour ago

  • Rhyl Journal

What is a reasonable budget for a holiday? Expert explains

Based on a survey of 2,114 UK adults by Starling Bank, holiday spending has increased by a quarter (23%) since 2023. Brits are spending £822.50 more per week abroad than at home, compared to £668 two years ago. However, they are also taking a savvier approach to their holiday spending, with nearly eight in ten (78%) holidaymakers setting a budget ahead of their trip, compared to 66% of those surveyed by Starling in 2023. It's important to remember that there is no one-size-fits-all approach to budgeting, and it will look different for every trip. Becca Stroud, Personal Finance Expert at Starling Bank, has shared a few tips for creating a reasonable holiday budget. A good first step to creating a reasonable holiday budget is to make a list of all the things you need to account for when away and estimate how much it will all cost. Becca adds: "If your bank offers spending insights, you can try analysing your previous trip to see how much you typically spend on categories like drinks, groceries and experiences while away. "Once you know how much you'll need to roughly put aside, you can start saving up for your trip." Creating a dedicated savings fund can prevent you from accidentally spending money intended for your trip. Planning what you'd like to do on your trip can be helpful in creating a rough daily spend target to stay within your holiday budget. Becca adds: "Some banks, like Starling, let you ringfence your funds into separate Spaces, so why not get creative with them? "You could create a Space for each day of your trip, or separate your Spaces for experiences, meals out and essentials." It's easy to lose track of your spending on holiday, particularly when you're having a nice time and you don't want to keep checking exchange rates. Becca explains: "It's worth having a daily check-in while on holiday to make sure you're aware of what you're spending. "To make this easier, you can turn on notifications for each time you make a purchase - this will give you a reality check and remind you to keep an eye on your budget." Transaction fees can be an issue when paying for items with your debit card, but some banks don't charge them. Becca says: "To avoid transaction fees make sure you click the option to pay in the local currency as opposed to in pounds. Recommended reading: Does buying from duty free at the airport save you money and how does it work? The best ways to try and prevent jet lag on a long-haul flight Here are the best seats to choose on a plane - and the ones to avoid "These small savings add up, giving you some extra cash to play with for guilt-free treats and activities." If you can, consider having a holiday spending buffer in place for any emergencies or unexpected expenses while away Becca explains: "Our research found that two-thirds of those surveyed created a buffer, setting aside a whopping £519.70 on average."

What is a reasonable budget for a holiday? Expert explains
What is a reasonable budget for a holiday? Expert explains

North Wales Chronicle

time4 hours ago

  • North Wales Chronicle

What is a reasonable budget for a holiday? Expert explains

Based on a survey of 2,114 UK adults by Starling Bank, holiday spending has increased by a quarter (23%) since 2023. Brits are spending £822.50 more per week abroad than at home, compared to £668 two years ago. However, they are also taking a savvier approach to their holiday spending, with nearly eight in ten (78%) holidaymakers setting a budget ahead of their trip, compared to 66% of those surveyed by Starling in 2023. It's important to remember that there is no one-size-fits-all approach to budgeting, and it will look different for every trip. Becca Stroud, Personal Finance Expert at Starling Bank, has shared a few tips for creating a reasonable holiday budget. A good first step to creating a reasonable holiday budget is to make a list of all the things you need to account for when away and estimate how much it will all cost. Becca adds: "If your bank offers spending insights, you can try analysing your previous trip to see how much you typically spend on categories like drinks, groceries and experiences while away. "Once you know how much you'll need to roughly put aside, you can start saving up for your trip." Creating a dedicated savings fund can prevent you from accidentally spending money intended for your trip. Planning what you'd like to do on your trip can be helpful in creating a rough daily spend target to stay within your holiday budget. Becca adds: "Some banks, like Starling, let you ringfence your funds into separate Spaces, so why not get creative with them? "You could create a Space for each day of your trip, or separate your Spaces for experiences, meals out and essentials." It's easy to lose track of your spending on holiday, particularly when you're having a nice time and you don't want to keep checking exchange rates. Becca explains: "It's worth having a daily check-in while on holiday to make sure you're aware of what you're spending. "To make this easier, you can turn on notifications for each time you make a purchase - this will give you a reality check and remind you to keep an eye on your budget." Transaction fees can be an issue when paying for items with your debit card, but some banks don't charge them. Becca says: "To avoid transaction fees make sure you click the option to pay in the local currency as opposed to in pounds. Recommended reading: Does buying from duty free at the airport save you money and how does it work? The best ways to try and prevent jet lag on a long-haul flight Here are the best seats to choose on a plane - and the ones to avoid "These small savings add up, giving you some extra cash to play with for guilt-free treats and activities." If you can, consider having a holiday spending buffer in place for any emergencies or unexpected expenses while away Becca explains: "Our research found that two-thirds of those surveyed created a buffer, setting aside a whopping £519.70 on average."

DOWNLOAD THE APP

Get Started Now: Download the App

Ready to dive into a world of global content with local flavor? Download Daily8 app today from your preferred app store and start exploring.
app-storeplay-store