CREDIT CARDS
British holidaymakers stung by technology costs abroad
Most holiday makers will be looking to take their mobile phones and other gadgets abroad with them this year. However, many could be left facing a large bill when they return, new research shows.
The cost of making calls, sending text messages and checking social networking websites when abroad can cost an average of £149 per person.
The research, carried out by a price comparison website, found that 49% of British holidaymakers have come home to find an unexpectedly large phone bill. Only a fifth of people check how much they will be charged for using their phone abroad BEFORE they set off.
iPad users are particularly at risk of rocketing premiums when abroad. The ‘all in one’ travel tablet is an ideal gadget for holidaymakers; however, it certainly comes at a cost.
In July 2010 new regulations were introduced to cut the cost of broadband in Europe to €50(£44). However this is only applicable in the EU, those travelling outside of Europe could face higher premiums.
Some providers apply a cap regardless of where you are in the world and other s offer no cap outside of the EU.
More than 33 million Brits are expected to take their mobile phones and other gadgets abroad with them this year, however many are unaware of the hidden costs when using them abroad.
Once the phone is turned on in another country, it will register to a local network and the phone owner will then pay to receive calls, to leave a voicemail and receive voicemail.
Text messaging is the main use people have for their phones whilst abroad and receiving text messages is the second way people plan to use their phone most.
"Contacting your mobile phone network should be high on every mobile user's holiday checklist, alongside packing your passport and sun cream.
If people don't want to add to their post-holiday blues by coming home to a ‘bill shock', they need to take control.
If you really can't do without your mobile while you are away, at the very least you should make sure you understand the charges and try to limit the scope for a huge bill,” said Ernest Doku, Technology expert at uSwitch
If you have been caught out by huge technology bills while abroad, then a prepaid credit card could help you budget for next few months.
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