Roaming charges. You might have been unlucky enough to see this irritating little charge show up on a bill for your mobile device.
Here’s a closer look at what exactly it means and, more importantly, how to avoid it in the future.
What is data roaming?
In general, data roaming involves using your cell phone for internet access, texting, or calling while outside of your network coverage (which is usually based on geographic location). This is most likely to happen when you travel abroad to international locations.
How does data roaming work?
When you’re beyond your regular home network, your regular provider will seek to connect your device to nearby networks with available coverage. While you’re roaming, your provider will receive information based on your online activities (like browsing the web, streaming videos, using apps, etc.) and calculate an additional fee based on the data used while out-of-network.
Top 3 ways to avoid data roaming charges
1. Review your plan
Some providers do offer plans that include discounted roaming services, including international travel plans. These can be purchased as an add-on for an additional daily fee. Look at the prices and consider if it’s worthwhile to purchase at this rate before you head out on your trip; however, be warned that traditional mobile service providers charge higher rates than you might expect for these temporary international roaming services.
2. Toggle roaming to OFF on your device settings
Just head to > Settings > Select Cellular or Cellular Data
• With Dual SIM or Dual eSIM, toggle on Cellular Data
• Select the number you want to modify
• Tap Cellular Data Options
• Toggle off Data Roaming
3. Find WiFi and hot spots
Make use of any WiFi services available when you find yourself in hotels, cafes and other public places. If you think the network is safe and secure, you can activate WiFi to make calls via the internet—just be sure to turn off data roaming in your network settings first otherwise your device will likely revert to data roaming for the call.
Also take advantage of WiFi to download content to enjoy offline when you’re out of service and not connected to the internet, including music, e-books, and movies.
4. Track your data usage
- Settings
- Cellular
- Mobile Data
Scroll down under Apps By Usage to view which apps are using cellular data. From here you can toggle on or off which apps you will allow to use data and which will be only available when on WiFi.
Bonus Tip: When you have an aloSIM eSIM, you can also track the specific amount of data used on the eSIM and easily top up as needed for next to nothing.
5. Load an aloSIM onto your device
When getting ready to travel, get yourself an eSIM to stay connected while away from home. With hundreds of destinations available, you never need to worry about roaming charges while on the go. Once loaded, just keep an eye on your eSIM in your phone’s settings to monitor your data usage. You can always add more if you extend your stay or need a little extra.
