Check your settings before you go (Image: Getty Images)
Experts have revealed a ‘hidden’ phone setting that could save you hundreds in roaming charges when travelling abroad. By simply turning off data roaming, you can avoid excessive fees, reduce battery drain and prevent unexpected bills.
Travel gurus at have highlighted the importance of disabling data roaming, explaining its function and why it’s crucial for managing costs during your travels.
International data roaming charges are notoriously steep. However, by switching off data roaming, these fees can be completely avoided, saving you from an unexpected bill that could run into hundreds of pounds depending on your usage.
When data roaming is enabled, each megabyte of data can cost between £5 and £10, particularly outside of the EU. Downloading something as small as a 3MB photo could result in charges of £15 to £30, which quickly accumulates with regular use.
With data roaming turned 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 by up to 50%, extending your phone’s battery life while travelling.
Turning off data roaming ensures there’s a 0% chance of surprise bills. 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
When travelling, your phone will automatically link up with a local network, which can result in eye-watering mobile data rates. Apps and services are sneaky data guzzlers, refreshing content in the background without you realising from emails to social feeds.
A Ski Vertigo spokesperson delivered some savvy advice: “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.”
They went on to say: “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.”