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Traveling abroad with your iPhone and then getting slapped with extra data roaming charges can surely be frustrating. In this article, we will provide you with tips on how to avoid roaming charges when taking an iPhone abroad.
EU Laws: No More Roaming Charges
Following the latest iterations of the ‘Eurotariff’ EU roaming laws, data roaming rules have been abolished–and this is within EU borders only. Thanks to the changes wrought on June 15, 2017, data usage used in EU countries (but outside of UK) will be charged or deducted from your national plan bundle- as you are in your home country. If your usage exceeds certain limits, your carrier may impose a ‘safeguard limit’ on roaming data and may charge you a maximum payment of €7.70/GB plus VAT (and gradually decreasing to €2.50/GB from 2022).
What About Brexit?
When Brexit processes are complete, the Eurotariff rules will no longer apply to UK citizens. However, it is possible that the Brexit negotiating team will try to work out some kind of roaming agreement with the EU, but it will surely take time.
What About Countries Outside the EU?
The message is straightforward: roaming charges will still apply as before. So the advice below is likely to be useful for those traveling to non-EU countries.
Ways to Avoid Data Roaming Charges When Traveling Abroad
1. Use Wi-Fi Whenever Possible
The easiest way to curb data roaming charges outside Europe is to connect to Wi-Fi whenever possible. With Wi-Fi hotspots, you will not be charged for downloading data via that connection unless there is a specific Wi-Fi hotspot charge for access where you have to register to access that Wi-Fi.
2. Change Your Settings
Make sure to check your network settings before traveling abroad. To do this, go to Settings > Mobile data. Roaming On or Roaming Off will be seen next to Mobile Data Options. If data is roaming is enabled, tap on it and off to make sure you’re not spending any more money on data while you’re overseas.
3. Buy a Data Bundle
Contact your carrier to enquire about affordable packages for your data, for limited or unlimited use, but always verify that they will work in the country you are visiting before you leave.
4. Purchase a New SIM Card
You can get a second SIM card with a cheap data plan for overseas use, just choose a local plan, for example. It is worth checking with your carrier to discover if your phone can be unlocked to be used with a local SIM card or consulting with an unlock specialist to free up your iPhone.
5. Use a MiFi
If you are not keen on unlocking your iPhone or getting a second SIM card, a MiFi device can be used so that you can remain connected wherever you go. These portable devices allow you to create a personal WiFi hotspot, which can cater for up to ten devices that are WiFi enabled.
6. Download Your Maps Before Leaving
If you are not familiar with your surroundings and want to use mapping applications like Apple Maps or Google Maps, cache these applications while still online before leaving. If you search for a particular area and view it before you go offline, this data should remain stored in the app, allowing you to view maps and street names without incurring extra data roaming charges.
7. Turn Your Phone Off
If you can do without using your phone for a week or even longer, turning your device off entirely when going on a holiday can be a valid option to avoid data roaming charges. It could even give you a chance to take a break from social media.
Wrapping Up
Use these tips whenever you have to travel out of Europe with your iPhone so that you can avoid any unpleasant data roaming charges upon your return. Always remember to check with your carrier before traveling to find out if they have any international data packages that can work for you overseas.
FAQs
Can reducing sounds and vibrations help reduce roaming charges?
Settings tweaks such as turning off sounds and vibrations can be helpful in reducing roaming charges, particularly if you choose not to switch off data roaming entirely.
Which events can cause additional data roaming charges?
Apps that regularly refresh content or that utilize location data can also add up to roaming charges so it’s best to disable automatic refreshing of apps and turn off location services when not in use.