Among all the things to keep in mind when you're on the go, taking your smartphone with you is generally at the top of the list. You will always want to be connected, not to mention the powerful cameras that smartphones currently have today, and of course, not get lost with the help of Google maps and guides. But there is one thing you will want to be cautious of: roaming charges.
The roaming covers all types of wireless technology, including Wi-Fi networks, in this case, roaming refers to the use of the coverage areas of another network. Basically, if you have a cell phone contract with a company in your country and you want to go abroad, to make a phone call, send messages or use the Internet with its 2G, 3G or 4G connection, your phone must have connections available from local providers .
One of the benefits that roaming allows you is that you can use your phone and your SIM card in other countries very easily, but it is a double-edged sword; Because your phone company's roaming rates may turn out to be high, which can result in a huge phone bill.
How to enable or disable roaming
There is only one way to enable roaming on your mobile device. This is talking to your network provider, you will have to ask them to activate it. In many occasions, this service is going to be activated by default and in this case you do not have to do absolutely nothing, just use it, but if not, Next, we will show you how to enable roaming on your Android or iOS (iPhone) .
Turn roaming on or off on Android
To check if roaming has been activated on your Android phone , you must:
- Enter " Settings " or " Settings " of your mobile.
- Then enter " Mobile networks ".
- Check the " Data roaming " box . Sometimes it appears as " Activate roaming " or " Activate data roaming ". If you want to disable roaming, just uncheck the box.
Make sure to check the roaming option only when you need it.
Turn roaming on or off on iOS
To activate roaming on your iOS device, specifically on iPhone with a 3G or 4G / LTE connection, you have to:
- Go to Settings or iPhone Settings.
- Then go to Cellular .
- Activate Mobile Data and Data Roaming .
- If you want to disable roaming, just uncheck the Data roaming box.
To save mobile data go to Settings> Cellular> "Use cellular data for". Here, uncheck what you won't need. Also, don't forget to look for a roaming provider that offers you the most affordable rates. In that case, go to Settings> Operator.
Roaming is very easy to control
As you could see, activating roaming on your smartphone was not difficult, but on the contrary, it was an extremely simple task, although it is certainly not as evident in the configuration of the phone as you expected.
The quickest way is to directly configure the device by calling customer service or using manuals on the official website, as long as your network provider gives you the option. In any case, if you are not going to use this service, deactivate it, it is more than clear that nobody wants to generate additional costs. If you need it, try to reduce the cost using only the applications that you are really going to use on your trip.