JETSETTERS could face extra costs of up to £1,498 by making five simple mistakes when using their mobile phone abroad.
It’s pretty much impossible to go on holiday without your phone.
Whether you use it to keep in touch with loved ones, take pictures or help you navigate the streets of a new city, it’s a travel must-have.
But using your phone abroad can bring unwanted costs.
Experts at mobile phone retailer Fonehouse have shared five mistakes people can make with their phone on holiday and how to save yourself a huge bill of up to £1,498.
Overheating – £89
If you’re travelling to a warm country, a common problem you may face is your phone overheating.
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A phone getting too hot can cause data loss or corruption, and repeated exposure to heat could permanently slow down your device or cause battery leakage.
The cost to get a battery replaced can cost up to £89, according to Fonehouse.
But if it’s damaged beyond repair, a whole new handset would be needed and that could cost thousands.
Fonehouse said: “To protect your phone while away, it’s best to keep it out of direct sunlight, as the longer your phone remains in sunlight, the hotter it will get.
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“Don’t leave your phone in the car or charge it in the sunlight as it can cause your phone to heat up faster than normal.”
Getting your phone wet – £69
On holiday, you’re likely to be using your phone on the beach or by the pool.
But if you’re not careful your phone could end up getting splashed or, if a disaster happens, it could end up fully underwater.
Water damage can potentially lead to blurry photos, charging problems or even breaking completely.
Fonehouse said: “The cost to repair a water-damaged phone can vary, with a charging point replacement, a common place to be damaged, costing up to £69 and if further damage has been done, a whole new handset will need to be purchased which can cost over £1000.”
If your phone does get wet, the mobile experts you follow the steps below:
- Turn off the device immediately.
- Clean thoroughly with a soft cloth.
- If it’s a liquid other than water, submerge the affected area in still tap water.
- Remove any parts you can such as the SIM card or phone case.
- Don’t dry it using an external heat source or by inserting a foreign object.
- Be patient and wait 24-36 hours before you attempt to turn it back on.
Many phones also claim to be water resistant, but this doesn’t mean they are waterproof or immune to water, just that they can handle some exposure to water.
Before going away, check the fine print to find its IP rating to see exactly what your phone offers.
This is a two-digit number that tells you how good your phone is at withstanding dust and water.
Also, invest in a waterproof case to keep your phone dry. You can pick one up on Amazon for £8.99.
Overspending on data – £140
Most UK networks charge roaming fees when you’re outside of the country.
Before you go abroad, it’s important to check with your provider how much it could cost for you, as roaming charges can vary widely by provider and destination.
Fonehouse said: “Some providers offer daily charges, which could cost up to £10 a day, meaning those jetting off for two weeks in the sun could pay up to £140 extra.
“Others may charge for calls, texts and data usage which can end up expensive.
“Before you set off, check what bundles your network offers as some have travel bolt-ons, which could work out cheaper.
“A rolling one-month sim only contract which includes roaming at your destination for no extra cost is also a good option.”
The experts said to avoid roaming charges, you could try turning roaming off on your phone and use Wi-fi where possible.
You should also download your boarding passes, music or films before leaving home.
Fonehouse added: “Be extra careful if you’re on a cruise or at sea as it’s easy to unintentionally connect to a ‘maritime’ network or a neighbouring country.”
Getting lost or stolen – over £1,000
Whilst on holiday, be aware of misplacing your phone or it being stolen, as pickpocketing is extremely common in certain areas of Europe.
Fonehouse said: “Insurance can help with the cost of replacing a lost phone, otherwise, you will need to buy a new handset which could set you back over £1,000.”
Memories saved on your phone can be invaluable so back up your phone before you leave in case anything does happen whilst you’re away, your photos, videos and contacts will still be safe.
Turn on location tracking as it might be able to help you locate it if misplaced and keep your phone password protected so if someone manages to get hold of it, they won’t be able to access your information.
Avoid carrying your phone in easy to reach areas, such as an unzipped bag, which can make you an easy target for pickpocketing.
If your phone is stolen, make sure you report it stolen as soon as possible.
Drops and smashes – £200
Accidents happen and dropping or knocking your phone is very easy.
This can lead to smashed screens, broken back glass or a damaged rear camera.
Fonehouse said: “The cost to repair these damages can be expensive, with the cost of replacing a screen up to £200 depending on the handset.
“To avoid this happening, don’t keep your phone in areas where it can easily fall out and use a protective phone case and a screen protector to help prevent smashes.”
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Meanwhile, holidaymakers could save money on their mobile phone bills under new plans.
Plus, we reveal the full list of providers that DON’T charge you to use your mobile phone abroad.
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