How to prepare your phone for a trip abroad.
Roaming should already be activated on both your account and your phone, but it's still worth checking.
To check that roaming's activated on your account, log-in to the iD Mobile app or My Account online, go to 'My Services' then 'Roaming'. If it's off, toggle it on.
You can check that data roaming's activated on your phone in its settings. The exact method for doing this depends on the phone you're using, so check out the instruction leaflet if you're unsure. Or Google it.
This is a really important step, and it's also the most overlooked - so please take a few moments to do it!
If your APN settings aren't correct, you won't be able to use your data abroad. So go to our 'Get your settings' tool, enter your iD mobile number and a few phone details, then select 'Internet' and click 'send'.
Depending on what phone you have, you'll either receive an SMS or OTA (Over-the-Air) message with a link to install your APN settings.
If you're in one of our 50 Inclusive Roaming destinations, the minutes, texts and data you use come out of your monthly allowances. To find out more, visit our Inclusive Roaming page.
If you're not in an Inclusive Roaming destination you can still use your phone, but you'll be charged for this. Rates vary by country, so check them on our International & Roaming charges page.
The iD Mobile app is the best way of managing your account abroad. It's free to use, and packed with handy features to help you roam:
Every iD Mobile plan comes with a Credit Limit and Bill Cap. These are in place to make sure you stay in control when you use your phone in the UK or abroad.
Here’s how they work:
Credit Limit. This is the maximum out-of-plan charge you can incur on an iD plan (not including your monthly line rental, add-ons and any admin charges). Your Credit Limit is determined by a credit checkand is set at £25, £50 or £75.
To increase your Credit Limit, you’ll need to contact us and pay a depositto cover the amount you’d like to increase your credit limit by. The deposit will then be added to your next bill.