British holidaymakers are being hit by an unexpected mobile phone charge when travelling in Europe, costing them millions collectively. The sneaky fee, often overlooked, can turn a relaxing getaway into a financial headache.
What’s the Hidden Charge?
Many UK travellers assume that post-Brexit roaming fees are a thing of the past, but some mobile providers are still applying charges under certain conditions. These can include exceeding fair usage limits or failing to activate a roaming package before departure.
How Much Are Brits Losing?
Research suggests that unsuspecting tourists are paying up to £10 extra per day for mobile data, calls, and texts—adding hundreds to the cost of a two-week holiday. With millions of Brits visiting Europe annually, the total loss runs into the tens of millions.
How to Avoid the Fee
- Check your provider’s roaming policy – Some networks still include free EU roaming, while others charge.
- Activate a roaming add-on – Many operators offer affordable daily packages.
- Use Wi-Fi where possible – Save data by connecting to hotel or café networks.
- Download maps and essentials offline – Avoid unnecessary data use.
By taking these simple steps, travellers can keep their phone bills under control and enjoy a stress-free European break.
