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February 2023 - Telecommunications

Half of UK consumers believe fees for data roaming in Europe are unfair: A survey by UK mobile network operator VMO2 has found that half of the respondents polled about mobile phone use when travelling believe that European data roaming charges are unfair, and they should not have to face extra costs if using their mobile abroad.

The research also found that around a quarter of people do not realise that they may face additional costs for using their phone when travelling in Europe, which, says VMO2, could result in a family of four facing a bill of around £100 following a two-week getaway.

The survey also asked respondents how important it is to be able to use their phones when they are visiting another country, with seven in 10 saying that connectivity is important (70%). When asked about the reasons for wanting connectivity, the top answer given was ‘staying in contact with friends and family', cited by more than half the respondents polled (52%). Other reasons included 'finding their way around using maps/navigation apps' (37%), to 'book restaurants' (26%), and for around a fifth of holidaymakers, 'update their social media' (21%).

The research also found that out a list of common bugbears for travellers, data roaming charges ranked in second place, with only credit card commission seen as a greater annoyance.

Gareth Turpin, Chief Commercial Officer at VMO2 said: "Whilst we’re not able to remove fees on sunbeds and airplane seats, hopefully not having to worry about roaming fees will upgrade the holiday experience for our customers."

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