Data roaming can be a convenient way to stay connected when traveling abroad or outside of your network's coverage area. However, it can also result in unexpected charges if not managed properly. This article provides an overview of the pros and cons of data roaming, including tips on how to manage data usage on your mobile device, and how to avoid bill shock. By understanding the potential costs and benefits of data roaming, you can make informed decisions about when and how to use cellular data services while on the go.
What is Data Roaming?
Data roaming is the use of cellular data services on a mobile device outside of the coverage area of the home network. This can result in additional charges from your mobile service provider, which can vary depending on the destination and the type of data usage. It is important to understand data roaming settings on your device and to manage usage to avoid unexpected charges.
We tend to think of our cell phones as seamlessly connected devices. However, depending on where you are in the world, your service provider might not have access to base stations, or hubs that connect your phone to the internet and data services. That’s where data roaming comes in.
In order to provide uninterrupted coverage, most service providers partner with other networks to “share” a signal when necessary. Data roaming on a phone allows you temporary access to another network to use data services even when you are outside of your mobile network's coverage area. That means even if you are outside your normal coverage area, you will still be able to access mobile data services such as email, web browsing, talk, text, and other applications.
When Would You Need Data Roaming?
Data roaming is typically needed when you are traveling outside of your mobile network's coverage area and want to use cellular data services on your mobile device. For example, imagine you’re on a vacation overseas and need to check your hotel reservation or call a Lyft. Without data roaming, you may only be able to connect to Wi-Fi networks, which may not be available in all locations. Data roaming makes it possible to use your phone as easily as if you were at home, which is definitely a comfort while traveling.
When you use roaming, your mobile device connects to a foreign network, and your mobile network provider charges you for any foreign data your device uses, including data used to send text messages, access the internet, or make a call. It's important to note that the data roaming charges can be significantly higher than usual, which may result in additional charges, and vary based on your selected mobile network provider and the country you are visiting.
The Pros and Cons of Data Roaming
If you're planning to travel abroad or outside of your mobile network's coverage area, data roaming may be an option to stay connected on the go. However, before you enable data roaming on your device, it's important to weigh the pros and cons to make an informed decision. In this article section, we'll explore the benefits and drawbacks of data roaming, as well as tips for managing data usage and avoiding unexpected charges.
Pros
- Access. Data roaming offers uninterrupted access to data services outside your home network area and even outside the country.
- Convenience. Data roaming means you can easily use apps, email, and messaging no matter where you are without having to worry about finding Wi-Fi hotspots or other internet connections.
Cons
- Cost. As we mentioned, data roaming can result in significantly higher charges for mobile data usage, which can be a major disadvantage if you are not aware of the charges or if you exceed your data usage limit. Those charges can add up pretty quickly. Depending on your carrier, data roaming will probably run you about .10 for a text message, .25 for a minute of talk time, and $2-$5 per MB of data.
- Unwanted usage. If you have a plan that puts automatic caps on data usage, data roaming might also mean additional fees for exceeding your data limits. These charges can come as a surprise if you’ve enabled automatic updates or have apps running in the background on your mobile device while you’re traveling.
- Security issues. Using unknown networks outside your usual coverage area can sometimes open your device up to malware or phishing attacks.
How to Avoid Data Roaming Charges
If you're traveling outside of your network's coverage area, roaming charges can add up quickly. While most major service providers no longer have roaming charges for travel within the U.S., Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands, roaming fees still apply when traveling abroad. To avoid bill shock, check with your service provider before you travel to see what options are available. Many providers offer plans that cover international roaming for a flat daily fee or as an additional monthly charge. For frequent travelers, there are also international plans that offer talk, text, and data coverage for an additional monthly fee. By planning ahead and selecting the right plan, you can stay connected without breaking the bank.
Tips for Using Data While Traveling
No one wants to return home from a trip to a huge bill for unexpected roaming charges. Here are some precautions you can take to avoid excess fees when traveling.
- Plan ahead. Research the options your service provider offers for extending plans for international travel. Choose a weekly or monthly international travel plan to make sure you can stay connected for less or consider purchasing a SIM card for your device.
- Turn data roaming on/off. Devices allow you to switch roaming off and on. Keep roaming off when you don’t need access to maps, email, apps, or messages so you won’t be charged. You can switch roaming back on when you need these services.
- Turn off auto updates. Make sure your apps are only updating while connected to Wi-Fi in order to avoid roaming charges for services that aren’t critical. Disable push notifications for apps that are not essential.
- Download and use offline maps. Many map apps or online map services allow you to download maps ahead of time and save them on your device. This is a smart move for travelers because, in addition to avoiding using roaming data, you’ll also have a map available should you become lost in a remote area without service.
- Be careful streaming music or videos. Be mindful of data usage when streaming music or videos, which can quickly use up data.
- Monitor your data usage regularly. Monitor your data usage often to avoid exceeding your plan's limit and incurring additional charges.
Data Roaming Alternatives
Here are a few tools savvy travelers can use to avoid data roaming charges when traveling internationally.
- Wi-Fi hotspots. Many hotels, airports, cafes, and public spaces offer free or paid Wi-Fi hotspots. You can use Wi-Fi to connect to the internet and use data services on your mobile device without incurring data roaming charges. However, public Wi-Fi can also come with security risks, so make sure to check your phone regularly for malware and avoid phishing scams.
- Local SIM cards. You can buy a local SIM card in the country you are visiting and use it in your mobile device for talk, text, and internet. Many international airports have kiosks where you can purchase a local SIM, or you can get one in advance from places like Amazon. However, to purchase a local SIM you’ll need an unlocked phone, a passport, and, occasionally, a local address.
- International SIM cards. Some mobile network providers offer international SIM cards that allow you to access data services in multiple countries. These can be an especially convenient option if you’ll be traveling to different countries. If your device has an eSIM (a digital version of a SIM card), there’s no need to buy a physical card. eSIMs let you easily add an international roaming plan to your device that starts working the moment you arrive in another country, giving you hassle-free flexibility.
- Portable hotspots. Mobile hotspot devices allow you to create a Wi-Fi hotspot that will connect devices including laptops, mobile phones, and gaming devices to Wi-Fi. These are a great option for travelers who need access to multiple internet devices.