What is Data Roaming?
Data roaming is when you use mobile data (like browsing the internet, using apps, maps or email) while your phone is connected to a network that isn't your provider's own, usually while you're travelling overseas. It forms part of international roaming, the broader service that also lets you make calls and send texts on a network overseas. If all you need is internet access while you're away, data roaming is the piece that matters.
How Does Data Roaming Work?
The basic idea is simple: your phone connects to and uses a network that isn't your home provider's to get online, and your home provider bills you for it.
This often occurs overseas because your mobile carrier doesn't have its own infrastructure in every country. Instead, carriers partner with local networks abroad. Your phone connects to one of these partner networks, and your usage is routed back through your home provider. You keep your number and stay connected.
Roaming isn't free, because your provider has to pay the overseas provider for access to their network. What changes is how you're charged for it. Without a roaming pack, you're typically billed on a pay-as-you-go basis at rates that can be expensive and hard to predict. With a roaming pack you prepay a fixed amount for inclusions, so you know the cost before you go.
How Much Does Data Roaming Cost?
Data is typically charged per GB. Even everyday usage like scrolling social media or checking maps can add up quickly. Some providers charge calls by the minute on as-you-go plans.
To avoid bill shock, it's worth sorting an international roaming pack before you travel. With amaysim, an international roaming pack is an add-on to your mobile plan, so you’ll need a plan in place before you can add one. amaysim's international roaming packs that include data start from $25.
If data is all you need, the Just Gigs pack gives you 6GB for $50. If you'd like calls and texts in the mix too, The Works bundles 2GB of data with 50 minutes of voice and 30 standard SMS for $25. amaysim's international roaming packs can be used in 120+ selected destinations. See our resource on data roaming for the full list.
Whichever amaysim international roaming pack you choose, your Australian number stays active and the pack is valid for 365 days, so anything you don't use carries over to your next trip to a select destination if it falls within this window, and because you prepay there's no surprise bill when you get home.
Alternatives to Data Roaming
If standard roaming costs don't suit your budget, there are a few other ways to stay connected overseas.
eSIM for International Travel
A travel eSIM lets you digitally activate a local or global data plan on your existing eSIM compatible device without swapping out your physical SIM. An eSIM is a digital SIM built into your phone rather than a physical card, so you'll still need a separate data plan for it to use. It's flexible, and you can set it up before you even board the plane.
The trade-off is that you'll use a different number, so you can't take calls or texts on your Australian number unless you switch SIMs or set up call forwarding. Some travel eSIMs are data-only and come with a more generous data allowance. If you'd rather keep everything on your own number, an amaysim international roaming pack does that without the second number.
Learn how you can use your amaysim eSIM overseas.
Local SIM Card
Buying a SIM card at your international destination gives you access to local rates. The downsides are that you'll needto use a new number, and you’ll have to find a store once you land.
Wi-Fi Only
Relying on hotel, cafe or public Wi-Fi is free, but it can be unreliable and limits you to wherever a connection happens to be available. If you need consistent access to maps, messaging or work apps, Wi-Fi alone probably won't cut it.
How to Turn Data Roaming On or Off
Before you travel, check your phone settings so you're not caught out.
On an iPhone:
- Open Settings
- Tap Mobile Data (or Mobile Service)
- Toggle Data Roaming on or off
On most Android phones (Samsung):
- Open Settings
- Tap Connections
- Tap Mobile networks
- Toggle Data roaming on or off
The wording varies slightly between devices, so if you can't find the toggle, check your device manufacturer's website for instructions specific to your model.
How to Monitor Your Data Usage
Keeping an eye on your data usage while roaming helps you avoid surprises:
- Check Settings > Data Usage on your phone
- Use your carrier's app (if available) to track usage in real time
- Look out for usage alerts via SMS or email. amaysim sends alerts when you enable global roaming.
When Should You Switch Data Roaming On or Off?
Switch it on if:
- You've purchased a roaming pack or travel plan
- Your phone plan already includes international roaming
- You need access to maps, messaging or work apps while travelling
Switch it off if:
- You don't have a roaming plan in place
- You want to reduce additional charges from background data usage
- You're planning to rely on Wi-Fi or a local SIM instead
Stay Connected on Your Terms
Whether you're travelling for work or a holiday, knowing how data roaming works keeps your phone usable overseas. The key is sorting the right setup before you leave: an amaysim mobile plan with an international roaming pack added, so there are no surprises on your bill.
Browse our international roaming packs and selected destinations to find an option that suits your trip.
FAQs
What's the difference between international roaming and data roaming?
International roaming covers all mobile services abroad, including calls, texts and data. Data roaming refers specifically to the mobile internet part, when your phone is using data on a network other than your regular provider's.
Is mobile data the same as data roaming?
No. Mobile data is your everyday internet use on your regular provider's network. Data roaming is using mobile data on a different carrier network when you're outside your carrier's coverage area, usually overseas.
Can I receive texts while data roaming is off?
Turning off data roaming only stops your phone from using mobile data on another network. It doesn't cut your connection altogether, so calls and texts still come through. This is where data roaming and aeroplane mode often get confused: aeroplane mode switches off everything (calls, texts and data), while turning off data roaming blocks only the mobile data. So yes, you'll still receive texts, but keep in mind that standard roaming charges for any calls or texts you receive may still apply, depending on your plan.
Will I be charged for receiving calls while roaming?
In many cases, yes. When roaming internationally, you can be charged for both incoming and outgoing calls, depending on your carrier and plan.
Can I use my phone overseas without an international roaming pack?
You can, but without an international roaming pack activated you'll be charged at standard roaming rates, which are generally higher than domestic rates. It's generally more cost-effective to activate an international roaming pack or use an alternative like a travel eSIM before you travel.