Nearly a third of Britons have been stung by unexpected roaming charges while travelling abroad, according to a new study. The research, conducted among 2,000 adults, found that 34 per cent have incurred additional fees, with 22 per cent paying £50 or more extra from a single trip. Alarmingly, 1.5 million travellers faced bills exceeding £100.
Lack of Understanding Fuels Roaming Confusion
The study highlighted widespread confusion about roaming charges. Nearly a quarter (24 per cent) admitted they were unaware that charges vary across different European countries. Almost half (48 per cent) of those hit with surprise costs said it negatively affected their holiday. Furthermore, 90 per cent of those charged unexpected fees were shocked by the amount.
Over a quarter (28 per cent) of respondents confessed they do not understand what mobile roaming is or how charges work when abroad. More than half (54 per cent) said they do not comprehend how their current mobile plan calculates roaming charges for calls, texts, and data.
Anxiety and Avoidance Tactics
The fear of incurring extra costs has led many to alter their behaviour. When using their phone abroad, 42 per cent felt anxious, regularly checking usage (29 per cent) or actively limiting activity to avoid unexpected charges (13 per cent). Common tactics included switching off mobile data entirely (40 per cent) and refraining from sending photos or videos to family and friends (20 per cent).
The research also revealed that 30 per cent felt disconnected from loved ones while on holiday. To stay connected, 21 per cent prioritised finding Wi-Fi upon arrival.
Hidden Holiday Costs Beyond Roaming
Roaming charges are not the only hidden expense. The study identified ATM withdrawal or foreign transaction card fees as the most unexpected cost (25 per cent), followed by hotel extras such as pool towels, Wi-Fi, and safe hire (16 per cent).
The top ten hidden holiday costs include:
- ATM withdrawal or foreign transaction card fees
- Hotel or resort extras (e.g. pool towels, Wi-Fi, safe hire)
- Data roaming charges
- Baggage or hold luggage fees
- Charges for calling or texting friends/family at home
- Airline seat selection charges
- Car hire add-ons
- Mini-bar or in-room charges
- Airport parking
- Airport transfers
Campaign to Combat Bill Shock
The research was commissioned by iD Mobile, which has partnered with former football manager and I'm a Celebrity... South Africa returnee Harry Redknapp to raise awareness. A spokesperson for the network provider, which offers inclusive roaming in 50 European destinations, said: "Being hit with a huge roaming bill when you return home is genuinely frustrating. Our research shows just how many people are unsure about roaming charges, how they work, and where they apply."
Harry Redknapp features in a campaign video wielding 'Roaming Sting Repellent' to fight the sting of roaming bills. The spokesperson added: "People feel it when it comes to using their phones abroad. Many travellers don’t know what’s included in their phone plan, or when charges might apply, until they’re already away. That confusion is clearly influencing how people behave on holiday, with some cutting back on phone use entirely to avoid the risk of unexpected costs. No one should have to worry about being stung by their phone bill while trying to enjoy a well-earned break."
