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As Singaporeans gear up for their well-deserved holidays, ensuring a smooth and budget-friendly trip is paramount. Georgia Brivida, a travel expert from Sim Local, is urging holidaymakers to double-check a crucial phone setting before they even step onto the plane. Failing to do so could result in hefty roaming charges, potentially costing you hundreds of dollars!

“Many travellers are unaware of how quickly data roaming can burn through their allowance – and their wallets,” Brivida explains. “It’s a simple oversight, but one that can have a significant financial impact.”

The Hidden Cost of Data Roaming

In today's connected world, staying in touch with loved ones, navigating new cities, and sharing your holiday experiences on social media are all essential parts of the travel experience. However, these activities often rely on mobile data, and using this data while abroad can be incredibly expensive. Roaming charges are typically significantly higher than domestic data rates, and even seemingly small actions like checking emails or browsing the web can quickly rack up a bill.

The Setting You Need to Change

The culprit? Your phone’s mobile data roaming setting. Most smartphones have this feature enabled by default. Before leaving Singapore, it's crucial to disable this setting. Here's how:

• iPhone: Go to Settings > Cellular > Roaming and toggle it off.
• Android: The exact steps may vary depending on your phone model, but generally, you can find the setting under Settings > Connections > Mobile Networks > Data Roaming and turn it off.

Disabling roaming doesn't mean you can't access the internet while abroad. You can still connect to Wi-Fi networks at your hotel, airport, or local cafes.

Smart Alternatives to Avoid Roaming Fees

Beyond disabling roaming, here are a few other smart ways to manage your mobile data while travelling:

• Purchase a local SIM card: This is often the most cost-effective option, providing you with a local phone number and data plan.
• Use an eSIM: eSIMs allow you to download a digital SIM card to your phone, giving you access to local data without needing to physically swap SIM cards.
• Download offline maps and content: Before you go, download maps, music, and movies to your phone so you can access them without an internet connection.
• Utilize Wi-Fi whenever possible: Take advantage of free Wi-Fi hotspots to stay connected without incurring roaming charges.

Don't Get Caught Out!

This simple adjustment to your phone settings can save you a considerable amount of money. Don't let unexpected roaming charges dampen your holiday spirits. Take a few minutes to check your settings before you fly and enjoy a stress-free and financially responsible trip!

This article is brought to you by Sim Local, a provider of affordable international SIM cards and eSIM solutions.