Roaming outside the EU with a plan from the UK

The short answer

Roaming abroad can bring extra charges, so check your package or ask your provider before you go. When you arrive, your provider must send you an automatic message about roaming charges or usage limits, unless you've opted out.

Outside the EU and EEA, roaming can be very expensive, especially mobile data. Protections such as a spending limit and warning messages exist in some places; what applies with a plan from the UK is below.

Official source: ofcom.org.uk · Checked 2026-10-14

📜 The rules in the UK

The details

You can set a monthly bill limit. Your provider must tell you when you're likely to reach it, and can only charge more if you agree. (ofcom.org.uk)
Since July 2022, providers are no longer required by law to apply a default data roaming limit of £45 (excluding VAT) a month, although many still offer one voluntarily. (ofcom.org.uk)
At sea your phone may connect to a ship's satellite network, which can cost more than normal roaming. Check possible costs with your provider before you travel. (ofcom.org.uk)
2G and 3G networks are being switched off in many countries, which can affect roaming, especially with older phones. Speak to your provider before you leave the UK. (ofcom.org.uk)

Ofcom

The UK communications regulator. It sets and enforces the rules for phone and broadband providers. It can't investigate or resolve individual complaints, but reporting faults and problems to it helps it act on wider issues.

📞 0300 123 3333 🔗 ofcom.org.uk

Official source: ofcom.org.uk · Checked 2026-10-14

🪜 Step by step

Check the prices before you goLook up your operator’s rates for the country you are visiting, or buy a travel add-on.
Keep the spending limit onIf your operator offers a data spending limit, leave it on. It stops data use before the bill runs away.
Switch off data roaming when you do not need itApps update in the background. Use Wi‑Fi and switch off data roaming in your phone’s settings.
Consider a local SIM or eSIMFor longer trips, a local or travel SIM is often much cheaper.

📇 Who to contact

OfcomThe UK communications regulator. It sets and enforces the rules for phone and broadband providers. It can't investigate or resolve individual complaints, but reporting faults and problems to it helps it act on wider issues.📞 0300 123 3333 🔗 www.ofcom.org.uk

Communications Ombudsman or CISAS (the scheme your provider belongs to)Settles disputes between customers and providersWhen the provider has not solved your complaint🔗 www.ofcom.org.uk/phones-and-broadband/service-quality/adr-schemes

❓ Questions

What happens when I reach the spending limit?

Where a limit applies, data stops or you are asked whether you want to continue. You decide whether to go on.

Do ships and planes count as abroad?

Networks on ships and planes often run via satellite, are not covered by the usual roaming rules and can be very expensive.

Can I dispute a huge roaming bill?

Yes. Complain to the operator first, then go to the dispute body if you cannot agree.

📎 Sources

Checked: 2026-10-14

🧭 Is this still correct?

We check this information carefully, but phone numbers, websites and rules change — and sometimes we get something wrong. Spotted a mistake or a change? Let us know below.

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✈️ Travelling outside the EU with a plan from the UK: how do I avoid a huge roaming bill?