How To Prevent Roaming Charges

Introduction

Roaming charges can be a nightmare for travelers. Whether you’re on a business trip or enjoying a well-deserved vacation, the last thing you want is to see exorbitant charges on your mobile bill due to international roaming. These charges can quickly add up and put a damper on your travel budget.

Luckily, there are ways to prevent roaming charges and save yourself from unexpected financial burdens. By following some simple tips and tricks, you can stay connected while traveling without breaking the bank. In this article, we will explore various strategies to help you dodge those excessive roaming charges and keep your communication expenses under control.

Understanding how roaming charges work is key to effectively prevent them. When you travel abroad, your mobile device connects to a foreign network, which is different from your regular network at home. This network connection allows you to use your phone’s features, such as making calls, sending texts, and accessing the internet. However, these services come with a cost, as your home network provider charges you for using another carrier’s network.

To avoid unexpected roaming charges, it’s essential to be proactive and take the necessary steps before and during your trip. Fortunately, with advancements in technology and increasing competition among mobile service providers, there are now more options available to travelers to minimize or even eliminate roaming charges.

In the following sections, we will delve into some practical tips to help you prevent roaming charges and stay connected without breaking the bank. Whether it’s checking your mobile plan, using Wi-Fi whenever possible, or considering a local SIM card, we’ve got you covered with strategies to keep your communication expenses in check.

Understanding Roaming Charges

Before diving into the tips for preventing roaming charges, it’s important to understand how they work and why they can be a financial burden. Roaming charges, also known as international roaming fees, are the additional costs you incur when using your mobile phone while traveling outside your home country.

When you travel abroad, your mobile device connects to a different network provided by a local carrier. This network allows you to access voice, text messaging, and data services. However, since you are using another carrier’s network, your home network provider charges you for this service.

Roaming charges can vary significantly depending on your mobile plan, the country you’re visiting, and the services you use. Making and receiving calls, sending text messages, and using mobile data all contribute to the accumulation of roaming charges. International data usage, in particular, can be a major culprit for excessive charges if not closely monitored.

Roaming charges are typically much higher than the regular rates you pay for using your mobile phone within your home country. These charges are usually billed per minute for voice calls, per text message sent, and per megabyte (MB) or gigabyte (GB) of data used. The cost of roaming can quickly add up, especially if you’re not careful with your usage.

It’s important to note that not all countries have the same roaming charges, and some mobile service providers may have different pricing structures. It’s recommended to check with your provider before you travel to understand the specific costs associated with roaming in your destination.

Furthermore, some countries and carriers have agreements in place that offer discounted or even free roaming in certain regions. These agreements, known as “Roam Like at Home” or “Roam Like You’re at Home” initiatives, aim to provide more affordable roaming options for travelers within participating countries.

Now that you have a better understanding of what roaming charges are and how they can impact your mobile bill, let’s explore some valuable tips to help you prevent these charges and save money while traveling.

Tips for Preventing Roaming Charges

Preventing roaming charges while traveling is essential for keeping your phone expenses in check. Here are some practical tips to help you avoid excessive charges and maintain control over your communication costs:

1. Check Your Mobile Plan: Before you embark on your trip, review your mobile plan to understand the roaming charges and options available to you. Some mobile service providers offer international roaming packages or add-ons that can provide more affordable rates while abroad. Consider upgrading your plan or adding a temporary roaming package if it suits your needs.
2. Use Wi-Fi Whenever Possible: Take advantage of Wi-Fi hotspots available at hotels, cafes, and public areas to connect to the internet without using your mobile data. Make sure to enable Wi-Fi calling if your device supports it, so you can make calls over Wi-Fi instead of cellular networks.
3. Turn Off Data Roaming: To prevent unintentional data usage and roaming charges, turn off data roaming in your phone’s settings. This will ensure that your device doesn’t connect to a foreign network for data services. You can still use Wi-Fi for internet access while keeping your cellular data off.
4. Download Offline Maps: Save maps of your destination in offline mode using navigation apps like Google Maps or HERE WeGo. This way, you can access the maps and navigate without relying on data connectivity, thus avoiding data roaming charges.
5. Use Messaging Apps: Instead of sending traditional SMS text messages, use messaging apps like WhatsApp, Telegram, or Facebook Messenger to communicate with friends and family. These apps use internet data or Wi-Fi instead of cellular networks, minimizing the risk of roaming charges.
6. Disable Push Notifications: Push notifications from apps can consume data in the background, leading to unexpected charges. Disable unnecessary push notifications or restrict them to essential apps to avoid unnecessary data usage.
7. Limit App Updates: Disable automatic app updates while abroad or set them to update only over Wi-Fi. App updates can be data-intensive, especially for larger apps or frequent updates, so controlling them can help reduce data usage and potential roaming charges.
8. Use a Local SIM Card: If you have an unlocked device, consider purchasing a local SIM card in your destination country. This allows you to use a local network and enjoy local rates for voice, text, and data services. However, be mindful of any potential limitations or compatibility issues with your device.
9. Consider an International Roaming Plan: Some mobile service providers offer international roaming plans that provide discounted rates for voice, text, and data usage while traveling. Research and compare different plans to find the one that best suits your needs and destination.

By following these tips and being proactive about managing your mobile usage while traveling, you can significantly reduce the risk of encountering unexpected roaming charges. Take the time to plan ahead and explore the available options to ensure a stress-free and cost-effective communication experience during your trip.

Check Your Mobile Plan

One of the first steps in preventing roaming charges is to review and understand your mobile plan before traveling. Carefully examine the terms and conditions regarding international roaming charges, as well as any available options or add-ons that your mobile service provider offers for traveling abroad.

Contact your mobile service provider and inquire about their specific roaming charges and available packages. Some providers offer international roaming plans that provide discounted rates for voice calls, text messages, and data usage while traveling in certain countries. These plans are often more cost-effective compared to standard roaming rates.

You should also clarify whether your plan allows for data roaming or if it needs to be activated separately. Data roaming can be quite expensive, and if you don’t require it during your trip, it’s better to disable it to avoid any accidental data usage and subsequent charges.

If your current plan does not offer reasonable roaming options, you may consider upgrading to a different plan or adding a temporary roaming package that better aligns with your travel needs. While there may be an additional cost involved, it can save you a significant amount compared to the standard roaming charges.

It’s important to note that some mobile service providers have partnerships with international carriers, which might offer more favorable roaming rates or even free roaming in certain regions. Make sure to inquire about these partnerships and the participating countries to take advantage of any available discounts.

Finally, don’t forget to clarify any usage limits or restrictions that may apply to roaming under your mobile plan. Some providers may have fair usage policies in place or impose data caps for roaming data usage. Understanding these limitations will help you stay within the allowed limits and avoid any unexpected charges.

Checking your mobile plan and understanding your provider’s roaming policies and options will empower you to make informed decisions. By selecting the most suitable plan or package for your travel needs, you can prevent excessive roaming charges and have peace of mind while using your mobile phone abroad.

Use Wi-Fi Whenever Possible

One of the most effective ways to avoid roaming charges is by utilizing Wi-Fi connections whenever they are available. Wi-Fi allows you to connect to the internet without relying on your mobile data, helping you save money and prevent excessive charges. Here are some tips for maximizing your Wi-Fi usage:

1. Connect to Secure Wi-Fi Networks: Look for trusted and secure Wi-Fi networks when connecting to the internet. This includes networks provided by hotels, cafes, restaurants, or any other reputable establishments. Avoid connecting to public or unsecured networks, as they may pose a security risk.

2. Use Wi-Fi Calling and Messaging: Many mobile devices now support Wi-Fi calling, which allows you to make and receive calls over a Wi-Fi network instead of using cellular networks. Similarly, use messaging apps like WhatsApp, Telegram, or Facebook Messenger, which utilize Wi-Fi for sending messages and making voice or video calls.

3. Download and Save Offline Content: Take advantage of Wi-Fi connections to download maps, guidebooks, travel apps, and other content for offline use. This way, you can access the information you need without incurring data charges while on the go.

4. Use Wi-Fi for Data-Intensive Tasks: When connecting to Wi-Fi, prioritize data-intensive tasks such as downloading or streaming content. This helps conserve your mobile data for when you don’t have access to Wi-Fi, reducing the risk of triggering unexpected data roaming charges.

5. Securely Browse the Internet: While connected to Wi-Fi, ensure that you browse the internet securely. Use a virtual private network (VPN) to encrypt your data and protect your privacy. This is especially important when accessing sensitive information or conducting online transactions.

Remember to keep in mind that while Wi-Fi connections can help you avoid data roaming charges, they may not always be available or reliable. It’s a good practice to have a backup plan in case you find yourself without access to Wi-Fi. Consider options such as local SIM cards or international data roaming plans to ensure uninterrupted connectivity during your travels.

By utilizing Wi-Fi whenever possible, you can significantly reduce your reliance on cellular data and minimize the risk of incurring high roaming charges. Take advantage of the increasing availability of Wi-Fi networks to stay connected without breaking the bank.

Turn Off Data Roaming

To prevent unintentional data usage and avoid hefty roaming charges, it’s crucial to turn off data roaming on your mobile device before traveling. Here’s why and how to disable data roaming:

Data roaming refers to the use of cellular data services while you are connected to a foreign network. When data roaming is enabled, your device can automatically connect to a local network and use mobile data for internet access, email synchronization, app updates, and other data-intensive activities.

To disable data roaming on your device:

1. Android: Go to Settings, select Network & Internet or Connections, and look for the option labeled Roaming and Data Roaming. Toggle the switch to turn it off.
2. iOS: Navigate to Settings, tap on Cellular or Mobile Data, and disable the option for Data Roaming.

By turning off data roaming, you ensure that your device does not connect to a foreign network for cellular data services. Instead, you can rely on Wi-Fi connections (as discussed in the previous tip) for internet access and data-intensive tasks. This simple action can save you from unexpected data charges that can accrue rapidly when roaming.

Keep in mind that some apps and services may still attempt to use mobile data even when data roaming is disabled. To prevent this, you can take additional steps:

• Disable Background App Refresh: In your device settings, restrict background app refresh for non-essential apps. This prevents apps from using data in the background when you are not actively using them.
• Manage App Data Usage: Review the data usage settings for individual apps and disable cellular data access for apps that you don’t need while traveling.

In addition, be mindful of any automatic system updates or cloud syncing that may occur on your device. These actions can consume significant amounts of data if not controlled. Consider delaying or manually initiating updates and syncs until you have access to Wi-Fi to avoid incurring roaming charges.

By taking the proactive step of turning off data roaming on your mobile device, you can ensure that you have control over your data usage while traveling and avoid any unexpected charges that may arise due to background data transmission or involuntary data connections to foreign networks.

Download Offline Maps

Downloading offline maps is a smart strategy to navigate and explore your destination without relying on data connectivity and incurring roaming charges. Whether you’re exploring a new city or venturing into remote areas, having offline maps readily available on your mobile device can be a game-changer. Here’s how to make the most of offline maps:

1. Choose a Reliable Offline Map App: There are several navigation apps available that offer offline map downloads. Popular choices include Google Maps, HERE WeGo, and MAPS.ME. Research and select the app that best suits your needs and has a comprehensive database of your destination’s maps.

2. Download Maps Before You Travel: It’s essential to download the maps of your destination before you embark on your trip. While connected to Wi-Fi, open the offline map app, search for the city or region you’ll be visiting, and start the download process. Make sure to download maps for areas that you plan to explore, including popular tourist spots, neighborhoods, and even the entire city if storage space allows.

3. Keep Maps Updated: It’s advisable to update your offline maps regularly. This ensures that you have the most current information, including new roads, attractions, or changes in the city layout. Set a reminder to check for updates on your offline map app or enable automatic updates to stay up to date.

4. Take Advantage of Offline Features: Offline map apps often come with additional features that can enhance your navigation experience. These features may include turn-by-turn directions, search functionality, points of interest, and even public transportation options. Explore the settings and features of your offline map app to make the most of its capabilities.

5. Use GPS Without Data: Offline maps utilize the GPS functionality of your device, which works even when you don’t have a data connection. While using the offline maps, your GPS can provide your current location on the map, allowing you to navigate and find directions without relying on cellular or Wi-Fi networks.

6. Save Precise Locations: To save specific locations of interest, such as your hotel, restaurants, or tourist attractions, mark them as favorites or create custom markers on your offline map. This way, you can easily refer back to these locations without the need for an internet connection.

By downloading offline maps, you can access navigational information, find directions, and explore your destination without the need for data or incurring roaming charges. Offline maps are especially useful in areas with limited or unreliable internet connectivity, remote regions, or when you prefer to conserve your mobile data for other tasks.

Remember to download and update the offline maps while connected to Wi-Fi before your trip. By being prepared with offline maps, you can confidently navigate your destination and enjoy your travels without worrying about unexpected roaming charges for data usage.

Use Messaging Apps

When traveling abroad, using messaging apps instead of traditional SMS text messaging can help you stay connected with friends and family while avoiding costly roaming charges. Messaging apps utilize internet data or Wi-Fi, allowing you to send messages, make voice and video calls, and share media without relying on cellular networks. Here’s how to make the most of messaging apps while traveling:

1. Choose a Reliable Messaging App: There are numerous messaging apps available, each with its own features and capabilities. Popular options include WhatsApp, Telegram, Facebook Messenger, and Signal. Research and choose the app that best suits your needs in terms of user base, features, and security.

2. Install and Set Up the App Before Your Trip: Download and set up the messaging app on your mobile device before you travel. Ensure that you have a stable internet connection, such as Wi-Fi, to install the app and complete the setup process. Familiarize yourself with the app’s interface and features to make the most of it during your trip.

3. Verify Contact Availability: Before you travel, make sure that your friends, family members, and other contacts also have the same messaging app installed on their devices. This ensures that you can seamlessly communicate with them using the app’s features without requiring additional measures.

4. Stay Connected Over Wi-Fi: Utilize Wi-Fi connections whenever they are available to send and receive messages, make voice and video calls, and share media through the messaging app. Connect to trusted and secure Wi-Fi networks, such as those provided by hotels, cafes, or restaurants, to ensure the privacy and security of your communications.

5. Make Use of Group Chats: Group chats within messaging apps are a convenient way to stay in touch with multiple people at once. Utilize group chats to coordinate plans, share updates, and maintain communication with groups of friends, family members, or travel companions.

6. Take Advantage of Media Sharing: Messaging apps often allow you to share photos, videos, and other media files with other users. This can be a great way to share your travel experiences in real-time or send important documents or visuals to fellow travelers or contacts back home.

7. Consider Privacy and Security: Be mindful of the privacy and security settings within the messaging app. Some apps offer end-to-end encryption, which ensures that your messages and media files are only visible to the intended recipients. Review the app’s privacy settings and enable additional security measures if available.

Messaging apps offer a cost-effective and convenient way to stay connected with loved ones while traveling without incurring steep roaming charges. By utilizing these apps over Wi-Fi connections, you can enjoy seamless communication and easily share your travel experiences, all while keeping your mobile expenses under control.

Disable Push Notifications

Push notifications can be convenient for staying updated with notifications from various apps. However, when you’re traveling and trying to prevent roaming charges, these notifications can quickly consume your data and lead to unexpected charges. Disabling push notifications can help you conserve data usage and avoid unnecessary roaming fees. Here’s how to manage push notifications effectively:

1. Review Your App Notification Settings: Go through the notification settings of each app on your device. Determine which apps are essential for receiving immediate notifications while traveling, such as messaging apps or travel-related services, and disable notifications for non-essential apps.

2. Disable Background Data: Some apps send and receive data in the background, even if you don’t actively use them. These background activities can consume data and lead to roaming charges. Check the background data settings on your device and disable it for non-essential apps while you’re traveling.

3. Prioritize Notification Channels: Some apps allow you to customize notification channels, allowing you to choose which types of notifications you receive. Prioritize important channels like messages or calls and disable notifications for less critical channels, such as social media updates or news alerts.

4. Use Manual Syncing: Instead of having your apps automatically sync and fetch data, switch to manual syncing. This way, you have control over when and how frequently your apps update, optimizing data usage and reducing the risk of unnecessary roaming charges.

5. Disable Email and Social Media Push Notifications: Email and social media apps are notorious for constantly sending notifications. Turn off push notifications for these apps or at least limit them to receiving notifications only from critical contacts or accounts. Consider manually checking your emails and social media accounts at specific times to stay up-to-date without relying on constant notifications.

6. Opt for Wi-Fi for App Updates: To avoid using your mobile data for app updates, configure your device to update apps only when connected to Wi-Fi. This prevents apps from consuming data and incurring roaming charges while you’re traveling.

7. Customize Notifications for Travel-Related Apps: Keep push notifications enabled for travel-related apps that provide essential information, such as flight updates, hotel bookings, or transportation services. These notifications can be crucial for receiving real-time updates and changes to your travel plans.

By disabling push notifications or customizing them for essential apps, you can minimize data usage and prevent unexpected roaming charges. Taking control over push notifications ensures that your travel experience remains uninterrupted while also keeping your mobile expenses in check.

Limit App Updates

App updates are essential to keep your mobile device running smoothly and to ensure you have the latest features and security patches. However, when you’re traveling and trying to prevent roaming charges, frequent app updates can quickly consume your mobile data and lead to unexpected costs. To avoid unnecessary data usage and roaming charges, it’s important to limit app updates while you’re on the go. Here’s how to manage app updates effectively:

1. Disable Automatic App Updates: By default, mobile devices are set to automatically update apps whenever a new version is available. Disable this setting to control when and how apps are updated. This ensures that app updates are only performed when you have access to Wi-Fi, eliminating the risk of data charges.

2. Set App Updates to Wi-Fi Only: Many operating systems allow you to specify that app updates should only occur while connected to Wi-Fi. Enable this setting to ensure that your apps are updated without using your mobile data while you’re traveling.

3. Manually Update Essential Apps: Instead of allowing all your apps to update automatically, manually update only the most essential apps while you’re traveling. Prioritize apps that are critical for your trip, such as travel guides, translation tools, or navigation apps, ensuring that they are up to date with the latest features and information.

4. Schedule App Updates: If you want to update all your apps while minimizing data usage, schedule app updates during specific times when you have access to a Wi-Fi network. This way, you can consolidate multiple updates into one session and avoid excessive data usage.

5. Restrict Background Data: Some apps continue to use data in the background even when you’re not actively using them. Review the background data settings on your device and disable data usage for non-essential apps. This prevents apps from consuming data unnecessarily, especially during app updates.

6. Limit App Refresh: Apps often refresh in the background to pull in new content or updates. Control the app refresh settings on your device and limit the refresh frequency for non-essential apps. This reduces data usage and ensures that apps only refresh when you actively open them.

7. Download App Updates Before Traveling: If you know you’ll be traveling without reliable Wi-Fi access, make sure to update your apps to the latest versions before your trip. This way, you can start your journey with up-to-date apps, minimizing the need for updates while you’re on the go.

By managing app updates effectively, you can conserve your mobile data while traveling and avoid unexpected roaming charges. It’s crucial to strike a balance between keeping your apps updated and minimizing data usage. By controlling when and how apps are updated, you can have greater control over your mobile data expenses and have a more cost-effective travel experience.

Use a Local SIM Card

Using a local SIM card is one of the most effective ways to save money on roaming charges while traveling. It allows you to use a local mobile network in your destination country, accessing local rates for voice calls, text messages, and data usage. Here’s how to make the most of using a local SIM card:

1. Check Device Compatibility: Before purchasing a local SIM card, ensure that your mobile device is unlocked and compatible with the networks in the country you’re visiting. Some devices may be restricted to specific carriers or regions, so it’s best to check with your device’s manufacturer or mobile service provider.

2. Research Local Mobile Providers: Research the local mobile providers in your destination country to determine which one offers the most suitable plans and rates for your needs. Look for providers with good coverage, reliable service, and competitive prices.

3. Purchase a SIM Card: Once you arrive in your destination country, head to a local mobile provider’s store, an authorized retailer, or a designated SIM card vendor to purchase a SIM card. They will assist you in selecting the appropriate SIM card based on your device, desired plan, and budget.

4. Register the SIM Card: Some countries require SIM card registration, which may involve providing identification or passport details. Follow the necessary procedures to complete the registration process and activate your new SIM card.

5. Choose a Suitable Plan: Select a plan that aligns with your communication needs. Many providers offer prepaid plans that include voice, text, and data allowances. Consider your expected usage patterns and choose a plan that provides sufficient services without excessive charges.

6. Top Up or Recharge: Prepaid SIM cards require you to add credit by topping up or recharging the card. This can usually be done at mobile provider stores, convenience stores, or through online platforms. Stay aware of your usage and make sure to have sufficient credit to avoid any service interruptions.

7. Enjoy Local Rates: With a local SIM card, you can make local calls, send text messages, and use data services at significantly lower rates compared to roaming charges. Take advantage of these local rates to stay connected without breaking the bank.

8. Consider Dual SIM Devices: If your device has the capability to support dual SIM cards, you can maintain access to both your home network and the local network simultaneously. This allows you to receive calls and messages from both numbers, ensuring you don’t miss any important communications.

Using a local SIM card provides you with the opportunity to enjoy affordable local rates and control your mobile expenses while traveling. It’s important to plan ahead, research the available options, and choose the most suitable plan for your needs. By using a local SIM card, you can stay connected with peace of mind, knowing that you’re avoiding costly roaming charges.

Consider an International Roaming Plan

If using a local SIM card is not a feasible option for your trip, another alternative to consider is an international roaming plan offered by your home mobile service provider. These plans are specifically designed for travelers and typically provide discounted rates for voice calls, text messages, and data usage while abroad. Here’s how to make the most of an international roaming plan:

1. Contact Your Mobile Service Provider: Reach out to your home mobile service provider to inquire about their international roaming plans. Ask for details about the available options, including pricing, coverage, and any restrictions or limitations that may apply.

2. Understand the Plan’s Coverage: Ensure that the international roaming plan covers the country or countries you plan to visit. Verify the network partners your home provider has agreements with in your destination to ensure a reliable connection.

3. Evaluate Plan Pricing: Compare the pricing of different international roaming plans, considering the cost of voice calls, text messages, and data usage. Take note of any additional fees or charges, such as daily access fees, that may apply.

4. Assess your Usage Needs: Review your typical usage patterns and estimate your expected usage while traveling. Consider the number of voice calls, text messages, and the amount of data you expect to use. Choose a plan with a suitable allowance that meets your needs without exceeding your budget.

5. Be Mindful of Data Usage: Data usage can be a major contributor to high roaming charges. Take steps to minimize data consumption by utilizing Wi-Fi whenever available, disabling automatic app updates, and reviewing data usage settings for individual apps.

6. Use Wi-Fi Calling: Check if your mobile service provider supports Wi-Fi calling. If so, enable this feature to make and receive calls using Wi-Fi instead of cellular networks. Wi-Fi calling is often included in international roaming plans or may be available as an add-on.

7. Stay Within Plan Limits: Understand the limitations of your international roaming plan, such as fair usage policies or data caps. Stay within the allocated limits to avoid additional charges or a potential reduction in service quality.

8. Plan Ahead for Longer Trips: If you’re traveling for an extended period, consider plans that offer longer-term options or additional data packages. This can provide better value for continuous connectivity during your trip.

9. Monitor Your Usage: Keep track of your usage through your mobile service provider’s app or by periodically checking your account online. This way, you can be aware of your usage and take appropriate measures to avoid surpassing your plan limits.

While international roaming plans may not always be the most cost-effective option, they can provide convenience and peace of mind for travelers who prefer to retain their home phone number or have specific service requirements. Assess your needs, compare plans, and select the option that offers the best balance of affordability and connectivity for your trip.

Conclusion

Roaming charges can quickly accumulate and lead to hefty mobile bills while traveling. However, with proper planning and the implementation of cost-saving strategies, you can effectively prevent roaming charges and keep your communication expenses under control. Here’s a recap of the tips discussed in this article:

– Review and understand your mobile plan, and consider upgrading to an international roaming package or temporary add-ons if necessary.

– Utilize Wi-Fi whenever possible to access the internet, make calls, and send messages without incurring data charges.

– Disable data roaming on your device to prevent unintended data usage on foreign networks.

– Download offline maps to navigate your destination without the need for an internet connection.

– Make use of messaging apps that utilize internet data or Wi-Fi for communication.

– Disable push notifications and manage app updates to minimize data usage and avoid unnecessary charges.

– Consider using a local SIM card to access local rates for voice, text, and data services.

– Evaluate the option of an international roaming plan provided by your home mobile service provider.

When implementing these strategies, it’s important to strike a balance between staying connected and minimizing data usage. By being aware of your usage patterns and taking advantage of Wi-Fi networks, offline capabilities, and cost-effective alternatives like messaging apps and local SIM cards, you can effectively prevent roaming charges and enjoy seamless communication while traveling.

Remember to plan ahead, research your options, and choose the strategies that align with your travel needs and budget. With these tips in mind, you can travel with confidence, knowing that you have taken the necessary steps to prevent unexpected roaming charges and maintain control over your mobile expenses.