How can I avoid data roaming charges?

eSIM Seeker > Blog > How can I avoid data roaming charges?

Chloé Wadycki

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9 May 2025

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6 min.

Traveling abroad can be an enriching experience, but it can quickly become expensive if you don’t pay attention to data roaming charges. Fortunately, there are many ways to avoid these charges while staying connected. This article explores essential strategies for avoiding data roaming charges.

What are roaming charges and how can you avoid them?

Roaming charges are fees charged by your carrier when you use your phone outside your home country. These charges cover calls, text messages, and mobile data usage (internet). Rates can vary greatly depending on your destination and carrier.

Understanding the cost of roaming data

“Roaming” refers to using your mobile phone on a foreign network. This allows you to stay connected, but often at a high price.

Data roaming costs can be high due to agreements between operators. To avoid roaming charges:

Enable mobile data blocking abroad on your device:
- On iOS: Cellular Data > Options > Turn off the “Data Roaming” button.
- On Android: Settings > Mobile networks > Turn off “Data roaming.”
Monitor your internet usage while traveling.
Use cost-effective connectivity solutions such as eSIM cards with a local carrier.

The consequences of poor management of these charges can include very high bills and unexpected budget overruns. Good preparation is therefore essential.

Solutions to avoid roaming charges on iPhone and Android

To minimize your costs, adopt strategies specific to your phone.

Connect to a hotspot or WiFi

The most accessible solution for accessing the internet is to connect to a WiFi hotspot or 2.0 hotspot. These access points are often available free of charge or at low cost in public places such as hotels, restaurants, cafes, airports, and train stations. You can also use the WiFi at your accommodation or workplace. However, be sure to keep your connection secure: choose secure networks and use a VPN to protect your personal data.

Activate a local data plan (eSIM and physical SIM)

Local SIM cards and international eSIMs are convenient alternatives to avoid roaming charges. Here’s how:

Purchase a local SIM card in your destination country. It offers affordable rates for calls and internet access.
Opt for an international eSIM, available on platforms such as our eSIM comparison tool. These solutions allow you to reduce data costs, stay connected without changing your phone, and keep your physical SIM card in your phone.

eSIMs offer an additional advantage: they are quick to install and avoid the physical constraints of traditional SIM cards.

Configure your Android phone to avoid overcharges

On Android, you can proactively manage your data usage:

Enable high usage alerts in your data settings.
Limit apps that run in the background.
Choose a travel package offered by your carrier.

In addition, disable automatic app synchronization to avoid unnecessary consumption.

Tip: Enable “Data Saver” mode to reduce background data usage and prioritize essential apps.

Useful apps for limiting roaming charges

Certain apps can help you control your usage and optimize your budget:

Data Usage: to monitor data usage in real time.
WiFi Map: to find free WiFi hotspots.
My Data Manager: to receive alerts about usage and avoid extra charges.

These tools are essential travel apps for reducing costs. They also give you better control over your usage.

Use Internet-based communication alternatives

To reduce the cost of international calls and text messages, use instant messaging and VoIP (Voice over IP) apps that use an internet connection. These tools allow you to communicate effectively without incurring additional charges.

Recommended apps

WhatsApp: Send messages and make voice and video calls for free over the Internet.
Skype: Offers audio and video calling services, as well as instant messaging.
Viber: Offers free calls, messages, and file sharing with other Viber users.
Telegram: Secure messaging app for sending messages, making voice calls, and sharing media.

Tip: Make sure your contacts also use these apps to enjoy free communication.

Preparing for your trip: essential steps

Proper preparation before you leave can save you unexpected costs and ensure seamless connectivity.

Check the terms of your current plan

Consult your carrier: Find out about the terms and conditions of your plan when traveling abroad, including which countries are covered and data limits.
Activate an international option: If necessary, sign up for an option that offers favorable rates for your destination.

Download content for offline use

Maps and itineraries: Use apps such as Google Maps to download maps of your destination and access them without a connection.
Travel documents: Save your tickets, reservations, and other important documents on your device for offline viewing.

Tip: Activate airplane mode during the flight and connect to the airport’s Wi-Fi upon arrival to avoid automatically connecting to the local mobile network.

Secure your data when connecting to public networks

Using public Wi-Fi networks can pose risks to the security of your personal and professional information.

Use a VPN (Virtual Private Network)

Data protection: A VPN encrypts your connection, making your data unreadable to potential hackers.
Secure access: It allows you to securely access online services, even on unsecured networks.

Tip: Choose a reputable VPN and set it up before you leave to ensure optimal protection.

Which operators offer advantageous plans for international travel?

Some operators offer plans specially designed for travelers, including competitive roaming rates:

Roaming-free plans

Orange Travel Pass: a flexible option for occasional use.
SFR Voyage: includes attractive roaming options for calls and data.
Free Mobile: plans including international calls at no extra cost.

These plans guarantee transparent and avoidable data billing.

Partner operators

Some operators collaborate with foreign networks to offer advantageous rates. These roaming operator options may be ideal for frequent travelers.

In addition, some international plans include unlimited calls or affordable data that can be used in multiple countries.

Other tips for reducing roaming charges

Set a budget for your internet usage while traveling.
Connect to WiFi networks whenever possible.
Activate airplane mode when you are not using your phone.

These simple actions can significantly reduce roaming charges.

Extra tip: Check the terms and conditions of your plan before you leave, as some carriers include roaming data in their standard offer.

Conclusion

By using solutions such as international eSIMs, data management apps, and optimized plans, you can avoid roaming charges and enjoy internet access on the go at no extra cost. Check out our eSIM comparison tool to find offers that suit your needs. Choose smart solutions and reduce your international phone bills while traveling with peace of mind.

In summary, planning ahead and using connectivity solutions will help you avoid extra costs and keep control of your budget while traveling.