The highest roaming bill ever recorded belongs to an Australian man who received a shocking $570,000 bill after his trip to Europe. It sounds absurd, but it highlights just how important it is to understand how roaming works before you travel. In this blog, we’ll explain what roaming is, how to avoid racking up sky-high charges, and how to manage your mobile data smartly when you cross borders, all while understanding the role of your mobile network provider.
What is data roaming?
Data roaming refers to using cellular services outside the coverage area of your regular data plan, specifically when you are outside your mobile network's coverage area. The reason data roaming often comes with high extra charges is that when you use data in a country where your provider does not offer service, your provider must pay the local carrier for the services you are using during your travels.
How much do data roaming charges cost?
Roaming charges can vary greatly and depend on several factors, such as your data plan, mobile provider, the country you’re visiting, as well as your mobile data usage. Because of this, it’s difficult to give an exact figure for roaming costs. In some countries, these charges can quickly range from €5 to €15 per MB. For reference, watching a single TikTok can use about 4MB. This means that watching TikTok for 5 minutes could already cost you about €300. That’s why it’s crucial to check your provider’s roaming rates for your destination before you travel, so you can avoid unexpected high fees while abroad.
Advantages and disadvantages of data roaming
Advantages: Data roaming enables users to access cellular data services while traveling abroad, providing the convenience of staying connected just as they would at home. This means you can use apps, browse the internet, check emails, and stay in touch with family and friends no matter where you are in the world. The ability to use your phone for navigation and other essential services can significantly enhance your travel experience, ensuring you can easily find directions, book accommodations, or share experiences on social media.
Disadvantages: On the downside, data roaming can lead to unexpectedly high costs. Many travelers are unaware of the potential charges associated with using data outside their home country, resulting in shockingly high bills upon returning home. Roaming fees can vary significantly between service providers and countries, making it difficult to predict costs accurately. Additionally, some mobile networks may have limited coverage in certain areas, which can hinder connectivity during critical moments.
Managing data roaming on your device
Managing data roaming on your mobile device is crucial to avoid unexpected charges and ensure a seamless experience while traveling. Here are some tips to help you manage data roaming on your device:
Turn off data roaming: When you’re not using data services, turn off data roaming to prevent your device from connecting to foreign networks. This simple step can save you from incurring unnecessary roaming charges.
Set data limits: Most smartphones allow you to set a data limit. By setting a daily or monthly limit, you can keep track of your data usage and receive alerts when you’re nearing your limit. This helps in preventing excessive data usage and unexpected charges.
Use data-saving features: Many mobile devices come with built-in data-saving features. You can turn off background data usage or limit data usage for specific apps. This ensures that only essential apps use data, helping you manage your data usage more effectively.
Monitor data usage regularly: Regularly checking your data usage is key to staying within your limits. You can monitor your data usage directly on your device or through your mobile network provider’s app or website. This helps you stay informed and avoid any surprises on your bill.
Use Wi-Fi: Whenever possible, connect to Wi-Fi instead of using cellular data. Whether you’re at a hotel, café, or public place, using Wi-Fi can significantly reduce your data usage and help you avoid data roaming charges.
By following these tips, you can manage your data roaming effectively and enjoy your travels without worrying about high roaming costs.
How to avoid data roaming charges?
After learning about the high costs associated with international data roaming, it’s clear that nobody wants to come home from their trip to a huge bill. Fortunately, there are several strategies to help you avoid these expensive roaming charges:
Turn Roaming Off: Most smartphones have an option to disable data roaming. By turning off roaming in your phone’s settings, you prevent it from connecting to foreign networks, effectively eliminating any potential roaming charges. This is a simple yet effective way to control your mobile expenses while traveling. Follow the steps below to turn off roaming:
iPhone:
Go to Settings
Click on Cellular or Cellular Data.
Click on Cellular Data Options.
Turn off Data Roaming.
Android:
Go to Settings
Click on Connections.
Click on Mobile Networks or Data Usage.
Turn off Data Roaming.
A lot of apps use data in the background. Forgetting to turn your roaming off can cause high roaming costs without even noticing it.
Use an eSIM: An eSIM is a digital alternative to the traditional SIM card. It allows you to connect with local providers in other countries without incurring high roaming fees. With an eSIM, you can easily switch between different network providers without needing to physically swap SIM cards. The eSIM from Firsty even enables seamless travel between countries, allowing you to maintain connectivity without the hassle of changing eSIMs.
Download Content in Advance: Try to download music, movies, and maps while you're still connected to Wi-Fi. This way, you won't have to use as much data while abroad, helping you save on roaming charges.
Buy a local SIM card: Purchasing a local SIM card is an excellent way to ensure you have access to messaging, calling, and the internet while traveling abroad. This option can significantly reduce roaming charges and provide you with a more cost-effective solution for staying connected.
Use Wi-Fi Whenever Possible: This may seem obvious, but using Wi-Fi as much as possible can significantly reduce your expenses. Look for available Wi-Fi networks in hotels, restaurants, and other public places to stay connected without incurring additional charges.
Data roaming allows users to utilize mobile services outside the coverage area of their regular data plans, but it can lead to unexpectedly high costs. Understanding how data roaming works is essential to avoid shocking bills.
One of the best ways to avoid unexpected roaming fees is by using Firsty, an innovative eSIM solution that automatically connects you to the best local provider in whichever country you’re visiting. With Firsty, you won’t need to worry about switching SIM cards or hunting for local plans. It’s a hassle-free way to stay connected without breaking the bank.
Firsty and eSIMs
Firsty is a modern mobile connectivity solution that simplifies global internet access through eSIM technology. What sets it apart is that you only need one eSIM for a global internet connection. As well as its unique freemium approach - users can get basic internet access for free by watching short ads, while premium plans start from €1 per day.
The service works in over 160 countries and requires no physical SIM cards or long-term commitments. Users simply pay for the days they need connectivity, choosing from various tiers to match their needs. The free tier handles basic tasks like messaging and email, while premium tiers support activities like video streaming and hotspot sharing.
The main value for consumers comes from three key features: cost savings through the elimination of roaming charges, flexibility to pause and resume service at will, and the convenience of instant activation through the app. There's no need to visit local mobile shops or juggle multiple SIM cards while traveling.
Recent user feedback highlights the platform's ease of use and responsive customer support, though initial setup may require a stable internet connection. Whether you're a casual traveler looking to stay connected on a budget or a business professional needing reliable high-speed data abroad, Firsty.app offers a straightforward solution without the complexity of traditional mobile carriers.
Firsty's three products to suit your roaming needs:
Firsty Free gives you access to essential travel apps like maps, messaging, and Uber—completely free. You simply watch a short ad to keep your data running, making it perfect for staying in touch and navigating your trip without paying a cent.
Comfort+ is the premium option for those who want a high-speed internet connection on the go. Starting at just €1 per day, you can use web browsing, social media and other tasks.
First Class is for heavy users. With First Class you get the fastest available speeds, hot spot capabilities, and it's ideal for streaming.
