Using your mobile data plan abroad was fairly straightforward for British holidaymakers pre-Brexit, but now little-known policy changes by the UK’s biggest networks mean streaming Netflix, Prime, and Disney + abroad could now land you with a massive bill.
Since 2017, the EU’s ‘roam like at home’ policy has allowed holidaymakers from across the continent to use their mobile phone plans without any extra roaming charges.
Simon Hood, travel expert and Executive Director of relocation firm John Mason International, has warned eager holidaymakers to double-check their mobile phone contracts before venturing out for a European holiday this year.
But since the UK formally left the bloc in 2020, the obligation for network carriers like Vodaphone, O2, and Giff Gaff to provide this service has faded.
Officially phased out in 2021, depending on your plan, holidaymakers have been forced into the decision to either submit to the additional charges or buy a new prepaid travel SIM instead.
Failure to do the latter could see you handed a massive bill, with viewing streaming services like Netflix and Disney + abroad likely to exceed operators’ fair use limit.
Simon Hood says: “These costings are all worth looking into; many holidaymakers would associate a prepaid travel SIM with higher costs and extra hassle.
“But in many cases, these Prepaid Travel SIMs can actually save you money. At John Mason International, I’ve had many clients relocate only to far-flung locations just to end up with a sky-high phone bill because they didn’t read their network’s T&Cs.”
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Simon recommends instead enlisting a travel SIM. Popular European providers include: Vodaphone, Orange, Lebara, TIM (Italy), and Movistar (Spain).
Simon concludes: “The most important thing is to do your research; the number of times I’ve seen clients at John Mason International handed an enormous bill because they failed to check their network’s terms and conditions isn’t worth it.
“If you’re unsure whether your network applies, consult an expert before your holiday or relocation; it could end up saving you piles of money.”
