Glossary · Connectivity
What is a data roaming?
Also called roaming
Data roaming is using your phone's mobile data on a foreign network when you travel outside your home carrier's coverage. It keeps you connected without changing SIM, but can be expensive unless your plan includes a roaming allowance — which is why many travellers use an eSIM instead.
Check your carrier's roaming rates and any travel add-ons before you go, and turn data roaming off if you'd rather rely on Wi-Fi or a local eSIM to avoid bill shock.
Related terms
Updated July 2, 2026
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