Attention roaming costs outside the EU

With a view to the summer vacation, consumer protection minister Peter Hauk has travelers who travel abroad with their smartphone.

"Anyone who travels to another country of the European Union (EU) no longer has to fear high roaming fees. Thanks to roaming at domestic prices, travelers can use their cell phone, tablet o tariff as at home. Calls- whether via mobile or landline- as well as SMS (SMS) and data services are also billed for calls from domestic calls abroad Fees still limited uncomfortable cost traps that I would like to point out travelers with a view to the summer vacation, ”said the Minister of Nutrition, Rural Affair and Consumer Protection. Peter Hauk .

"As soon as a national border is exceeded, the provider should switch to roaming with domestic prices. At least data roaming is not a all-round carefree package. Hauk. The providers could also set a data limit for roaming at particularly low tariffs. The providers should always inform this or any surcharges for further surfing, but users should always find out about the current situation in advance.

trips outside the EU

calls and SMS from non-EU countries can be significantly more expensive. If you visit popular holiday destinations in North Africa or Asia despite pandemic, you can expect high fees when surfing the Internet. "Since the EU regulations do not apply in non-EU countries, careless handling of the smartphone can tear a hole in the holiday fund. I also advise you in some European non-EU countries-such as Switzerland, Turkey, Monaco, the British Canal Islands, San Marino or Andorra-to find out more about the tariff for the respective country. Cheap flat rates can be rejected.

Caution of expensive surprises in sea and air travel

As long as they dial into terrestrial, i.e. land -based networks within the EU, for example near the coast or in the port, no additional costs should be incurred. However, it is strongly recommended to carefully check the tariffs before use. "Far away from the coast is usually not a mainland mobile network. Then travelers use the connection via satellite systems, this is usually comparatively expensive, since the EU regulations do not apply to the expenses of costs. Therefore, for example, cruise travelers should definitely find out in advance from their own mobile operator and the tour operator. The deactivation of the automatic network selection of the mobile device, automatic updates and the automatic synchronization of network services or email servers are also effective precautionary measures.

"Basically the same applies to air travel as for shipping trips. On board is not allowed on board, but if passengers want to access the Internet with their mobile devices, you should find out more before driving, as it can be very expensive for a satellite connection. Even if the connection is made on board via WLAN, I recommend you to find out in advance. switch to flight mode, ”said Minister Hauk.

Consumer portal Baden-Württemberg

Consumer Center Baden-Württemberg: Mobile phone costs

Ministry of Nutrition, rural areas and consumer protection-Sure and sure Informed Life