Changes to data roaming charges for UK holidaymakers

 Ofcom has recently unveiled plans to help UK holidaymakers avoid unexpected data roaming charges when travelling abroad to Europe.

At the moment, there aren’t any rules stating that network providers have to inform their customers about additional charges when they go abroad.

But with the April bill rises, unexpected roaming charges could come as a nasty surprise.

From 1 October 2024, Ofcom has said that all mobile providers will have to message their customers as soon as they start roaming abroad, and they’ll need to clearly set out their roaming charges, as well as providing clear information on their roaming policies.

This rule changes comes after research by Ofcom found 19% (a fifth) of UK travellers were not aware of the post-Brexit roaming charges most networks have introduced.

18% of UK adults told Ofcom they do not research roaming charges before they travel.

Cristina Luna-Esteban, Ofcom’s directory of telecoms consumer policy, said :"The last thing holidaymakers want when returning from a trip abroad is an unexpected mobile phone bill,” she said. “At the moment, some customers aren’t getting clear information from their provider to help them manage their mobile use and plan their spend. Our new protections will mean you’re told what it’ll cost when you start roaming.”