Using your cell phone within the EU, including Iceland, Liechtenstein and Norway (members of the European Economic Area), will incur the same costs for calls, SMS and internet as in Germany. However, these regulations do not apply in countries such as Switzerland, Turkey or other non-EU countries. Problems can therefore arise near the border – for example, with Switzerland. There it may happen that the cell phone automatically dials into the network of the non-EU country. This is stated by the consumer advice center.
Outside the EU it can be expensive
Outside the EU, the costs for calls and internet can increase significantly. There is a worldwide cost limit of 59.50 euros for mobile internet. Once this amount is reached, the mobile internet connection should be automatically disconnected. However, automatic disconnection does not always work.
Switch off roaming or activate flight mode
The consumer advice center provides important information to protect users from unnecessary cost traps when using mobile phones abroad: The roaming function should be deactivated or airplane mode activated. It is also possible to manually select the mobile network to prevent the device from accessing the networks of non-EU countries. For internet and calls, it is advisable to use Wi-Fi networks whenever possible.
Inform before traveling abroad
Voicemail can be a significant cost factor, especially outside the EU. It is therefore recommended that you deactivate it before you travel. Users of prepaid plans should check whether roaming is included in their plan and make sure that they have sufficient credit. It is advisable to check with your provider about international usage costs before you travel to avoid unpleasant surprises.
For more information:
Consumer advice center | Roaming
tun24100805