How to Save Money When Using Your Mobile Abroad

Using your mobile phone abroad can get expensive – especially if you need to make calls or use your data. So, how can you save a little money? Read everything you need to know.

How to save money when using your mobile abroad

If you’re heading abroad, you might be worried about using your mobile phone. However, there are a few ways to access calls, texts and data without incurring huge charges.

International SIM vs prepaid travel card

Many providers offer international SIM card options, which let you use your phone abroad as you would at home. You can also buy a prepaid travel SIM from the airport. These cards allow you to pay for a plan upfront to use while you explore the local area.

There are positives and negatives to both types of SIM cards. You can use international SIMs anywhere, whereas travel cards typically only work in one destination. However, international SIMs can take a while to arrive, so make sure to order them in advance.

An international eSIM provides an instant solution, as you can quickly install these digital SIM cards on your phone.

Data roaming charges

According to Ofcom, one in five people don’t realise they’re being charged for using their phone abroad – and data roaming is one of the biggest culprits. When you leave your mobile operator’s coverage area, data roaming lets you continue to use your phone, but many providers will add extra charges for this service.

There are a few ways to dodge data roaming and save a little money. You can:

• Switch to a network that offers cheaper roaming rates
• Switch off roaming on your phone
• Use WiFi as much as possible

By avoiding expensive data roaming charges, you can use your holiday spending money for fun things like postcards, tours and ice-cream!

The best networks to save money abroad

One of the best ways to save money when using your mobile abroad is to switch to a network provider that offers affordable foreign rates, meaning you can text, call and browse to your heart’s content!

Read about a few of the best providers to save money on your next trip, including special perks for European and international travellers.

Three

Three’s Go Roam scheme lets you travel across the world without incurring any hidden roaming charges. You can:

• Access your UK phone plan in 71 countries worldwide
• Use your phone as normal for £2 per day in Europe, or £5 per day worldwide
• Purchase handy data add-ons in many locations

O2

O2 is one of the best providers if you regularly travel to Europe, as the network offers free roaming in 48 European locations, including Cyprus, France, Italy and more.

However, you can also add the O2 Travel Bolt On to your plan to enjoy unlimited data, texts and minutes in 63 worldwide locations for £6 per day. The O2 Travel Inclusive Zone Bolt On also lets you roam in 27 international locations without any extra charges.

If you are on O2 and have Virgin Media at home then check out your Volt benefits. The O2 travel inclusive zone bolt on (which is free) allows you to roam in 72 destinations at no extra cost. Including the United States – free, fab.

Vodafone

Vodafone offers great perks for frequent travellers, letting you save money when using your mobile abroad. You can:

• Use your phone for £2.25 per day in 47 European locations
• Use your phone for £6.85 per day worldwide

Many of Vodaphone’s plans also automatically include foreign travel, so make sure to check your allowance before choosing the best plan for your trip.

Using your mobile phone abroad: FAQs

What should I do with my phone before going abroad?

If you’re heading abroad, it’s important to explore your international SIM card options. You could switch to a better provider, such as O2, or purchase a prepaid travel card. Make sure to install your SIM or eSIM before going on your trip to save time and money.

Should I turn off mobile data when abroad?

Switching to a different mobile provider is the best way to save money when using your mobile abroad. However, if you haven’t planned ahead, make sure to turn off your mobile data when you arrive at your destination, as this will help you avoid surprise data roaming charges.

Does putting your phone on aeroplane mode save you money when using your mobile abroad?

Putting your phone on aeroplane mode can prevent data roaming charges, as it stops you from sending and receiving messages, or using your data. This can save you money if you’re using your regular UK phone plan abroad.

How do you save money when using your mobile abroad? Do you have any tips or tricks? Share all your thoughts in the comments.

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