mobile broadband

Using mobile broadband in other countries

Many mobile broadband users have queries whether their dongle will work in other countries, whilst on holiday, or a business trip for example. Any data usage abroad would have to be paid at the international roaming rate.

Each rate depends on the mobile broadband provider you have chosen to use for accessing the internet.

Those on monthly contracts usually need to make a simple call to their provider to activate international roaming. Costs may be higher for international roaming than when using mobile broadband in the UK. Data allowance on your contract will not take into account international roaming so be sure not to make that mistake.
For specific details on international roaming rates for mobile broadband see your providers' website - O2, Orange, Vodafone, Three, Virgin, T-Mobile.

Those using payg mobile broadband for use in other countries usually don't even need to contact their provider to activate international roaming as it is activated by default, obviously a top up sufficient enough for your internet access on your travels will be required.

Europe will be generally less expensive that data roaming charges in countries outside of the EU. This is where those on payg mobile broadband may be better off because they can limit how much mobile broadband abroad they use, by having a set plan they can pay per day of usage abroad.

People using mobile broadband on monthly contracts may get stung if they do not keep tabs on how much data they are using every day. Using mobile broadband abroad can incur higher costs if not managed properly, if it is possible to buy a few days mobile broadband for abroad use, it is easier to see how much you're getting, and spending.