When it comes to cell phones and wireless devices, roaming costs can add up quickly. For starters, by understanding what roaming is and when additional charges apply to the device will help.
Roaming is the ability to send and receive voice, data, or texts when travelling outside the geographical coverage area of the home network, by means of using a visited network. Domestic roaming (national) occurs when a user within one country switches from one carrier network to another such as a T-Mobile subscriber is roaming on the AT&T network. International roaming refers to the ability to move to a foreign service provider's network; frequently involves mobile workers and international tourists. When travelling internationally for your data needs, it is always best to use smart phones and data devices on a free Wi-Fi network. However, if that isn’t an option, you should consult HPA or your wireless provider to make sure you know how charges will be applied should you roam off your network. Most wireless providers charge per MB of data usage when you roam off of their network. However, some providers provide plans that will give a bigger block of usage versus a pay per use scenario. The best advice to prevent unwanted roaming costs is to KNOW before you GO!