What is data roaming?

Let’s say you’re traveling internationally, out of your phone network, and your dogsitter emails you to tell you that your corgi ran off to join a roving gang of strays. If you’re not on Wi-Fi when you get this email, then your phone—like your dog—is now roaming. “Roaming” is when your phone temporarily operates on, or “borrows,” another carrier’s network. Roaming can happen with talk, text and in the case of your dogsitter’s panicked email, data. So, what is data roaming? In this blog, we’ll explore how it works and what it means for your phone, your travel plans and your wallet. 

How does data roaming work?

To keep you connected to what matters most, even when you’re outside your normal coverage area, wireless carriers will make agreements to allow their subscribers to use each other’s networks when their primary networks aren’t available. This means when you’re in a location that isn’t covered by your current wireless provider, you’ll still get signal and be able to access data services, like your email, web browser, social media and more. It’s kinda like when you use another bank’s ATM because your bank doesn’t have any branches nearby (which can also lead to additional charges that we’ll cover here shortly). 

International roaming vs domestic roaming

We’ve told you what data roaming is, but did you know there’s both international roaming and domestic roaming? So…what’s the difference?

• International roaming happens when your phone disconnects from your current carrier while you’re out of the country, like on a trip to Japan. 
• Domestic roaming happens when it disconnects while in the U.S. (or U.S. territories).

Domestic roaming usually doesn’t lead to extra charges (thanks to those roaming agreements we mentioned earlier), while international roaming typically does. This stems from a few different factors, like infrastructural differences (and the operating costs that come with them), currency conversion rates, network access fees, tariffs and more.

You might be wondering about the cost of international roaming, since we’ve mentioned fees a few times. Every carrier charges differently for international roaming. If you’re a Mint Mobile user (hey there), you can purchase our Minternational Pass, available in 1-day, 3-day and 10-day increments. This is a great way to help avoid accidentally racking up charges by streaming British baking shows in your hotel room or by looking up pictures of Ryan Reynolds.

Should data roaming be on or off?

Essentially, if you’re afraid of unexpected data roaming charges, then it’s probably best to keep data roaming off. Another thing to consider is that data roaming can drain your battery because your phone is looking for new networks, which might not be so great when you’re trying to navigate a foreign country. You can always turn it back on later if you end up somewhere out of your network’s coverage and need service. However, if you prefer the convenience of data roaming, you can leave it on—just be aware, you may get a few unexpected charges.

Whether you leave it on all the time or like to toggle it, you should definitely keep track of your data usage when you’re roaming. Some carriers, like us, make it easy to track. All you have to do if you’re a Mint user is text GOROAM to 6700.

How to turn data roaming off or on

If you’re hitting the road, taking to the skies, or sailing the seas anytime soon and don’t want to risk incurring any roaming charges, here are the steps you can take to turn your data roaming off (and back on again when you need it, of course). 

How to turn data roaming off and on with Android

1. Open Settings
2. Tap on Connections
3. Choose Mobile networks
4. Find Data roaming and turn it off by toggling the switch to the left or turn it on by swiping to the right 

How to turn data roaming off and on with iPhone

1. Open Settings
2. Tap on Cellular
3. Choose Cellular Data options
4. Tap the Data roaming slider to turn it off (white) or on (green)

How to avoid data roaming charges

Roaming charges can add up quickly if you don’t plan ahead, especially when traveling internationally. Avoid roaming fees by checking with your service provider before you travel to see what roaming plan options they offer. Many providers have plans that include international roaming for an additional fee or offer a one-time add-on, like the Minternational Pass we mentioned earlier—because we don’t want you to have to wait until you’re home from your trip to Europe to share those top tier Eiffel Tower photos.

Other tips to avoid data roaming charges

• Use Wi-Fi hotspots: When your phone is connected to Wi-Fi, it’s not using cellular data from another network, so technically you’re not roaming. This can also avoid roaming charges for talk & text thanks to a feature known as Wi-Fi Calling.

• Download content ahead of time: To add on to the previous tip—you can also download maps, guides, music, TV shows or anything else you might need to access later, while on Wi-Fi. Then when you’re traveling away from your home network or any Wi-Fi and need to check the map or listen to your favorite song, you won’t have to roam to do it.

• Get a local SIM card: You can purchase a SIM card from the country you’re visiting to use during your trip, as long as you have an unlocked phone and don’t mind having a local phone number while you’re there. And if your phone supports dual SIM, you can keep your US number active, just in case.

You’re ready to roam

You’re officially an expert on data roaming, which should make planning your next vacation that much easier. And if you really want to stay connected and save money while on a trip abroad, we recommend making the switch to Mint Mobile. Our Minternational Passes come in multiple options and can be used in over 180+ countries, so you can still use your phone without sacrificing too much of your food and souvenir budget. Click below to see if you can roam through your next destination with a Minternational Pass.