When you use your mobile phone abroad to access the internet, it uses mobile network data in that country. That’s called data roaming. Every time you connect to the internet to check your email, Facebook account or to use Google Maps, for example, you’re using data. But, how to avoid high roaming charges while traveling abroad?
Have you ever received a huge roaming bill after a trip abroad? Have you ever lost phone service or connectivity while traveling – and found yourself desperately searching for free Wi-Fi? Have you wasted time anxiously looking for a SIM vendor at the airport or train station?
Roaming charges can be high when travelling, and you may want to talk to your provider, or check their website, to understand the best available deal for the places you’re travelling to. Your provider may offer special add-ons, or plans with free roaming or roaming allowances built in, including some designed for frequent travellers.
eSIM mobile data from Airalo
If you’re a frequent traveler for business or pleasure, you may want to review your options. One great alternative is Airalo. Airalo is the world’s first eSIM store that solves the pain of high roaming bills by giving you access to eSIMs (digital SIM cards). With eSIMs from Airalo, you can download and install a digital data pack from 200+ countries/regions and be connected anywhere in the world the second you land. eSIMs offer more flexibility as you can switch between carriers or plans without changing SIM cards. They also eliminate the need for a physical SIM card and can be easily activated through an app.
Click the image to buy your eSIM data package from Airalo
If data roaming is important to you, weigh up your options when deciding which provider to use long term. Otherwise, you need to consider what the best options are for each trip you take abroad. Options can include buying a roaming add-on for your trip or upgrading your plan to one that includes roaming data as standard.
If you’re traveling to Spain specifically, it’s important to note that there are several mobile network providers in the country, each with their own data plans. Some of the major providers include Movistar, Vodafone, and Orange. Before your trip, research the available data plans and providers to find the one that best suits your needs.
Lastly, consider ways to minimize data usage to avoid incurring high charges. For example, downloading offline maps or using Wi-Fi when available can help reduce data usage. With these tips in mind, you can stay connected while traveling without worrying about costly roaming charges.
eSIM options from Airalo
- Options for eSIM in Spain here.
- Options for eSIM for the whole of Europe here.
- Options for worldwide eSIM.
Ronda Today receives a small commission when you buy eSIM from Airalo using the links in this article. Thankyou for supporting us!
FAQ: How to Avoid High Roaming Charges While Traveling Abroad
Roaming charges are fees charged by your home mobile carrier when you use voice, text, or data services outside your domestic network. Because your provider must partner with foreign networks, costs become far more expensive than domestic rates. Data roaming charges occur when your mobile device connects to internet services via a foreign network. Each time you check email, browse social media, or use navigation apps abroad, you consume mobile data that may be billed at premium rates by your home provider.
Roaming charges are typically much higher than domestic data rates. Many travelers unknowingly use background data or stream content without realizing the cost, leading to unexpected, expensive bills.
Contact your mobile provider to check for international roaming packages or add-ons. Some providers offer plans with free roaming or bundled data allowances, especially for frequent travelers.
An eSIM is a digital SIM card you can install through an app like Airalo. It allows you to buy and activate a data plan for your destination before you even land, eliminating the need for physical SIM cards and avoiding high roaming charges.
Download the Airalo app, select your destination, choose a data pack, install the eSIM, and activate it directly from your device. It works in over 200 countries and connects you as soon as you arrive.
Yes. Buying a local SIM once you arrive gives you access to domestic data rates, which are usually much lower than international roaming fees. This is a popular choice for extended stays or high data usage.
Yes. In Spain, major carriers like Movistar, Vodafone, and Orange offer local prepaid and tourist plans. You can also purchase Europe-wide or global data packs through eSIM providers like Airalo.
Download offline maps, disable background data, and use Wi-Fi whenever possible. This helps conserve data and minimize your reliance on mobile networks.
If you’re a frequent traveler, it may be cost-effective to switch to a mobile plan that includes international data. Compare long-term plans that include roaming allowances or global data access.
Using an eSIM allows you to keep your original phone number active for calls and texts while using mobile data from a separate international provider—offering flexibility without swapping SIM cards.
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