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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

  • eSIM

Updated July 2, 2026

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