If you’ve ever returned from a trip to find your phone bill looking like a horror story, you know that roaming fees can ruin even the best holidays. Trust me, I’ve been there — stuck in a foreign country, relying on Google Maps, texting family, and then bam! A massive bill waiting for me back home. When you’re travelling to Vietnam, staying connected is crucial, but the last thing you want is to pay through the nose for it.
So, what exactly is roaming, how much does it cost, and how can you dodge those sneaky fees? Let’s dive into it—and I’ll share some practical tips, including why a Vietnam eSIM might just be your new best friend on your trip.
What Is Roaming, and How Much Does It Cost?
Roaming happens when your phone uses a network outside your home carrier’s coverage. So if you’re in Vietnam and your UK phone connects to a Vietnamese network, your provider charges you extra for every call, text, or megabyte of data.
Those charges can get crazy fast. For example, some providers charge up to $10–15 a day just for roaming, and data costs can spike to $20 or more per megabyte. Imagine using Google Maps for a few hours or posting photos on Instagram—you could be looking at a bill over $100 a day! That’s why avoiding roaming fees isn’t just smart; it’s essential.
9 Ways to Avoid International Roaming Charges
Here’s the good news: there are plenty of ways to keep your phone bill low while you enjoy Vietnam.
- Turn Off Mobile Data
Simple but effective. If you don’t need to be online all the time, switch off mobile data and rely on WiFi instead. - Turn On Airplane Mode
If you want to completely avoid cellular charges but still use WiFi, turn on airplane mode and then switch WiFi back on. - Get an International eSIM
This is a game-changer. A Vietnam eSIM lets you buy a local data plan digitally, no need to swap SIM cards. It’s cheap, fast, and keeps you connected from the moment you land. - Get a Local SIM Card
If your phone doesn’t support eSIM, grab a local SIM when you arrive in Vietnam. It’s usually cheaper than roaming but requires swapping physical cards. - Use Free WiFi
Hotels, cafes, airports—use free WiFi as much as possible. Just be careful with security; avoid sensitive transactions on public networks. - Turn Off Automatic App Updates
Apps love to update in the background and can gobble your data quickly. Disable automatic updates before your trip. - Download Offline Content
Save maps, guides, playlists, and movies before you leave. That way, you don’t need data for entertainment or navigation. - Use Messaging Apps with WiFi Calling
Apps like WhatsApp or Facebook Messenger let you call and message over WiFi, saving you from costly phone calls. - Set Data Usage Alerts and Limits
Most smartphones let you set data caps or alerts. Use them to avoid surprise charges by keeping an eye on how much data you’re using.
Phone Settings to Avoid Roaming Charges
Getting your phone settings right is half the battle.
iPhone Settings for International Travel
- Turn off data roaming: Settings > Cellular > Cellular Data Options > Data Roaming off
- Airplane mode: Settings > Airplane Mode (switch on)
- WiFi: Settings > WiFi (switch on when available)
- Disable automatic updates: Settings > App Store > Automatic Downloads > App Updates off
Android Phone Settings for International Travel
- Turn off roaming: Settings > Network > Select your carrier > Roaming off
- Airplane mode: Settings > Network > Airplane mode on
- WiFi: Settings > WiFi (enable)
- Disable automatic updates: Google Play Store > Profile icon > Settings > Network Preferences > Auto-update apps off
Google Pixel Settings for International Travel
- Data roaming: Settings > Network and Internet > Internet > Roaming off
- Airplane mode: Settings > Network and Internet > Airplane mode on
- WiFi: Settings > Network & Internet > WiFi on
- Auto-update apps off in Play Store settings
How to Choose Between eSIM and Local SIM Cards for Vietnam
If you want ease and speed, a Vietnam eSIM is the way to go. It’s perfect for travellers who want to be online immediately without hunting for a SIM shop. But if your phone doesn’t support eSIM or you prefer a physical card, a local SIM can save money, especially for longer stays.
Preparing Before Your Vietnam Trip: Tips for Seamless Connectivity
Buy and activate your Vietnam eSIM before your flight so you’re connected as soon as you land. Also, have a backup plan in case you lose your phone or connection — maybe a portable WiFi device or backup SIM. Don’t forget to download travel apps that work offline, like maps.me or Google Maps offline, to keep going without data.
Roam the World Worry-Free with Teloka
At Teloka, we know how frustrating roaming fees can be. That’s why our Vietnam eSIM plans are designed for travelers like you. Affordable, easy to set up, and reliable — with Teloka, you stay connected without the bill shock.
FAQs About How to Avoid Roaming Charges
Q: Can I use my regular SIM in Vietnam without extra charges?
A: Usually not. Without a roaming plan, charges will be high. That’s why alternatives like eSIMs or local SIM cards are best.
Q: Is eSIM compatible with all phones?
A: Most newer phones support eSIM, including recent iPhones and Androids like Google Pixel. Check your model before travel.
Q: What if I run out of data on my eSIM?
A: You can usually top up online easily or buy a bigger plan before you go.
Conclusion
Avoiding roaming fees on your Vietnam trip isn’t complicated—it just takes a bit of planning. Whether you turn off mobile data, use WiFi, or get a Vietnam eSIM, there are plenty of ways to stay connected without breaking the bank. Ready to travel smart and save? Grab your Vietnam eSIM from Teloka today and enjoy seamless, affordable internet wherever your journey takes you.
- How to Avoid Roaming Fees on Your Vietnam Trip
- Avoid roaming fees in Vietnam with a travel eSIM. Stay connected affordably with local data plans and skip expensive international charges.
- vietnam eSIM, travel eSIM
