When travelling abroad, one ‘hidden’ phone setting can save you hundreds in roaming charges, according to experts. By turning off data roaming, you avoid excessive fees, reduce battery drain and prevent unexpected bills.
Travel experts at Ski Vertigo have emphasised the benefits of turning off data roaming, explaining how it works and why it’s essential for keeping costs under control during your travels.
Up to 100% savings on data usage fees: International data roaming charges are notoriously high. By turning off data roaming, you can avoid these fees entirely, preventing an unexpected bill that could amount to hundreds of pounds depending on your usage.
£5 to £10 per MB of data used: When data roaming is enabled, each megabyte of data can cost between £5 and £10, especially outside of the EU. Downloading something as small as a 3MB photo could result in charges of £15 to £30, which adds up quickly with regular use.
50% reduction in battery drain: With data roaming off, your phone no longer needs to constantly search for foreign networks or maintain a data connection. This not only saves on data costs but also reduces battery drain, prolonging your phone’s battery life while travelling.
0% chance of surprise bills: Turning off data roaming ensures that apps and services won’t unknowingly use data in the background, avoiding any unexpected charges. You maintain full control over your mobile expenses while abroad.
How data roaming works
Connection to foreign networks: When travelling, your phone connects to a local network that is not part of your home service provider. This allows you to use mobile data, but at much higher rates.
Background data usage: Even if you’re not actively using apps, many services (e.g. email, social media) update in the background, using data without your knowledge.
A spokesperson for Ski Vertigo said: “A smart way to avoid roaming charges is to download essential apps, maps and entertainment before you travel. This ensures you have what you need at your fingertips without relying on mobile data. Whether it’s a language translation app, a city guide, or offline movies, planning ahead can make your trip smoother and save you from unexpected costs.
“To go a step further, consider using local SIM cards. In many countries, these are affordable and offer data packages that give you full access without the high fees. You could also look into international travel plans from your UK carrier, which may offer flat-rate deals. Finally, using Wi-Fi hotspots for things like checking maps or messaging can help keep your data use in check and your wallet intact.”