The rules come into effect from October 2024 and all networks must follow them

If you use your mobile phone when abroad, your mobile network must alert you about any roaming costs when you travel. This is a rule that has no longer applied since the UK left the EU but now it is back in force, thanks to Ofcom.

Some mobile providers continued to alert their customers even when there was no official obligation to, but not all of them. Now Ofcom has stepped in and set some official rules and guidelines that must be followed by all operators.

With the new rules, mobile providers have to send you a notification when you start roaming. The message should include links or direct information on the following:

• At what point you start roaming and, if there is a charge based on a period of time and when this starts and ends.

• Any fair use policies or time limits that apply.

• The option to set a spending cap to avoid overspend.

• Where to find additional information on roaming limits and costs.

Providers also now need to provide ways for customers to reduce or limit their spend on roaming while in the UK.

Ofcom’s research found that nearly one in five holidaymakers were unaware they could face extra charges when using their mobile phone abroad so the change will no doubt be welcomed by travellers.

How to reduce your roaming costs

One option can be to purchase a separate eSIM with a plan for the country you’re travelling to.  But if you plan on using your current provider then follow these roaming tips.

Before you travel:

Set a data use or spend cap

Android phone users can do this in their settings. iPhone users can’t do this in their phone’s settings at the moment, but you can ask your mobile provider to set a spend cap which you can do by calling them direct, or some offer it within their My Account section of their website or app.

Check how much roaming data you have to use

If your network has an app or My Account section on their website, check how much data you have left of your monthly allowance.

When away:

Use Wi-Fi

If you’re worried about exceeding your allowance abroad, the easiest thing is to turn roaming off completely and use your hotel’s WiFi or local WiFi in cafes or restaurants.

Check your roaming usage using your phone’s settings

Use your phone’s settings to keep an eye on your data use. The process varies depending on if you’re using an iPhone or an Android phone. Some networks will also voluntarily automatically text you once you’ve used 80% of your data allowance and then again at 100% of your allowance.

If you’re not sure whether your mobile provider offers any roaming allowance for the country you’re in, check our Guide to Which Mobile Networks Don’t Charge Roaming Fees? And Which Do.

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