Are you travelling abroad and hoping to find some time for work while you’re away? Don’t forget about the new roaming charges since the Brexit trade deal!
Unfortunately, since January 2021, UK mobile phone users no longer receive free roaming in the EU by law. Plus, since July 2022, there is no legal requirement for mobile networks to inform customers of roaming charges via SMS when they arrive in another country. Every major mobile network has different roaming policies, so it’s a good idea to give them a call before you travel to understand what charges apply to you.
Here are some common questions answered and how you can avoid bill shock when travelling abroad this year.
What Does Fair Usage Mean for Roaming Allowances?
Fair usage refers to a roaming data allowance cap that is below the cap you receive at home. If you exceed this limit whilst abroad, you could incur high data charges. There is no one fair usage policy for all mobile networks; each one is different, so it’s important to get in touch with your network directly to find out what your cap is. Then, you can keep an eye on it and make sure you stay within the limit.
Can I Use My Allowances Abroad for No Extra Charge?
Some networks have actually not re-introduced roaming charges meaning you can use your normal allowances whilst you are in the EU and non-EU European locations. However, this may differ for select locations further afield. Whether you pay roaming charges may also depend on when you signed up to your contract. Again, the best thing to do is to get in touch directly with your mobile network to find out your roaming policy.
How to Avoid Roaming Charges & Bill Shock Abroad
Take Advantage of Free Wi-Fi
Your accommodation and other hospitality venues may offer free wi-fi which you should take advantage of in order to avoid roaming charges. However, make sure you know where the coverage ends so you don’t transfer to a local mobile network unexpectedly.
Use Roaming Add-Ons or Usage Caps
If you’re happy to pay a bit extra for using data abroad, see if your mobile network offers roaming add-ons. This way you will get an allowance for data, texts and minutes to use while you’re away and only pay for those. Or, to make sure you don’t incur extra charges, make use of your network’s usage caps. This way, you can always ensure you don’t lose track of your usage.
Consider Buying a Local SIM
If you travel abroad a lot, especially for business, it might be worthwhile in the long-term to buy a local SIM card. As long as you have an unlocked handset, you will be able to keep the cost of calls and texts down but using a pay-as-you-go SIM card.
The Future of Mobile Roaming Charges
There is no way to predict what mobile networks will do about their roaming policies in the future. Some of them may continue to not incur roaming charges, however this could change, there is no way of knowing.
If you regularly travel with your business, make sure you keep up to date with your business mobile tariff and ensure you are always getting the best deal for you. One way you can do this is by coming to Ocean Telecom who will be able to guide you to the right tariff for you and your team. Contact us today!
