With the holiday season in full swing, chances are you are heading abroad. And we don’t want your holiday ruined by data roaming charges or not having your mobile ready to use abroad, so here are a few steps you can take to avoid any additional charges and headaches.
What is Data Roaming?
Data Roaming is the use of your mobile network’s data, you are able to use this data to receive emails, listen to Spotify or upload a picture to Instagram without any additional charges. However, when you are abroad there is usually an additional charge for using this data…and these charges can be very high.
What uses Data Roaming?
Many apps, commonly news and social media apps, download the latest data in the background even when they are not in active use. Instant messaging apps like WhatsApp and Facebook Messenger also use data to send messages, pictures, and video.
It does not just come down to these apps though. Whenever you search something via google or check your emails that will also use your data.
Avoid the Charges
Turn Off Roaming
The easiest way to avoid any data roaming charges whilst abroad is to turn off data roaming. This can be done on all mobile devices whether you are on Android or iOS.
Turn Off Data Roaming on Android
Settings > Mobile Networks > More Networks > Mobile Networks > Roaming. Tap to turn on or off.
Turn Off Data Roaming on iOS
Settings > Mobile Data > Roaming On/Off. Tap to turn on or off.
Wi-Fi
You should still be able to upload your holiday snaps to Instagram – just via Wi-Fi. Your hotel and local bars and shops may have FREE Wi-Fi and you will probably be able to find a cafe or restaurant that offers a Wi-Fi connection. Be sure that the connection is secure, be very reluctant to join a Wi-Fi network which does not have a secure connection (Networks without a password).
Before you travel contact your provider to ensure you have all the correct data to cover your holiday. Some providers cap the amount you can overspend whilst abroad, others don’t and you can potentially rack up £000’s of extra charges while abroad. If you are ever unsure, do not leave it to chance……… Always double check.
Please contact Unified World for more information on Data Roaming Charges.
