Going to the beautiful places in Eastern Europe? Then, knowing about roaming in Romania will keep you connected cheaply. This top guide for travelers will show you how to use your phone data or make calls without spending a lot. We’ll tell you about local SIM cards and easy tips for using eSIM travel. So, let’s get started!

how to avoid data roaming in romania

I. Understand Data Roaming in Romania

understand data roaming in romania

Here’s what you guys need to know about data roaming in Romania:

  • Data roaming occurs when you use your mobile phone’s internet while you are outside of your country. With it, you can surf the web, check your email, and use apps just as you did at home.
  • Romania belongs to the EU, which means use of your cell phone abroad including at home is not charged extra with the help of EU policy.

But, there are some limits:

  • You get a data limit, usually around 20GB a month. Go over, and you’ll pay more.
  • Your internet might slow down if you use it a lot.
  • Watching high-quality videos or similar activities might cost extra.

It’s best to ask your mobile operator before going to Romania to know exactly what your plan covers. They might offer special deals for using your phone there.

II. Roaming Charges in Romania

If you’re coming to Romania from outside the EU, let us inform you about roaming charges:

1. How to Check Roaming Charges Before Your Travel to Romania

Before you pack your bags, take a moment to understand your roaming charges in Romania. Here are 3 ways to do this:

check roaming charges before going to romania
Source
  • Contact your mobile provider: This is the most direct way. They’ll give you exact rates for calls, texts, and data for your plan.
  • Research roaming fees: Many providers offer tools to check roaming charges for different countries. Find the section on international rates and select Romania to see the costs.
  • Call Customer Service: Feel free to call customer service with any questions about roaming in Romania and to learn about any hidden fees for using your phone abroad.

2. Roaming Charges in Romania by Bulgaria Mobile Operators

Here is a quick look at the estimated roaming charges in Romania for the big 3 mobile operators: A1, Yettel, and Vivacom:

Mobile Operator Calls Text Data
A1 $0.25/minute $0.10/text $10/GB
Yettel $0.20/minute $0.08/text $8/GB
Vivacom $0.30/minute $0.12/text $12/GB

Note: Prices are estimates and may vary with your mobile plan and provider offers. Check your provider's site or contact customer service for current details.

III. Best Ways to Avoid Roaming Charges in Romania

5 recommended ways to avoid roaming charges in Romania are:

  • Buy an eSIM
  • Buy a local Romania SIM card
  • Use Wi-Fi calling
  • Turn off data roaming
  • Use apps that don’t use much data

Below are more details about each way. 

1. Buy an eSIM from romaniaesim.com

Romania-esim

The registration process is simple:

  • Visit the website
  • Choose your preferred data plan (1GB – 20GB) and validate it for 3 days – 30 days
  • Following the payment process, you’ll receive an email with the attached QR code.
  • Scan the QR code to get the eSIM card up and running on your compatible device.

Key benefits:

  • Offer plans from 2 best Romania networks – Digi & Vodafone
  • No physical SIM card required
  • Instant delivery and activation
  • Competitive pricing (e.g., 10GB for 14 days costs $21.90)
  • Compatible with major carriers and devices
Get Romania eSIM
Beat roaming fees and bypass airport SIM shops
Buy my eSIM

2. Buy a Local Romania SIM Card

Another option to avoid roaming charges is to purchase a local SIM card in Romania.

  • Purchase from authorized retailers (e.g., mobile operator stores, airports, convenience stores)
  • Bring your unlocked device and passport/ID for registration
  • Load a prepaid data plan according to your needs

Tips:

  • Compare prices and offerings from different providers
  • Check for promotions or tourist SIM packages
  • Ensure your device is compatible with the local network bands

3. Enable Wi-Fi Calling

If your device and carrier support Wi-Fi calling, you can make and receive calls over a Wi-Fi connection without incurring roaming charges.

  • Enable Wi-Fi calling in your device settings
  • Connect to a trusted Wi-Fi network
  • Make and receive calls as you normally would.

4. Turn Off Data Roaming

Disabling data roaming on your device can prevent accidental roaming charges.

For Android devices:

  • Go to Settings > Network & Internet > Mobile Network
  • Toggle off “Roaming” or “Data Roaming”

For iPhone devices:

  • Go to Settings > Cellular (or Mobile Data)
  • Toggle off “Data Roaming”

5. Use Apps that Don’t Use Much Data

While in Romania, use data-friendly apps to minimize your data consumption:

  • WhatsApp (for messaging)
  • Google Maps (download offline maps)
  • Facebook Lite (lightweight version)
  • Spotify (download playlists for offline listening)
  • Netflix (download shows/movies for offline viewing)

These ways are always the best to help you save money when traveling to Romania. Keep them in mind!

IV. FAQs about Data Roaming in Romania

Are (there) any limitations on using the internet in Romania?

Some mobile companies could restrict several data you can use when traveling abroad even into the EU area. It makes sense to talk to your phone provider whether any limits or additional costs will apply.

Could I use my internet connection to connect my other devices in Romania?

The sharing of phones’ extra data (internet) by making a hotspot will be subject to your phone company’s policies and agreements with Romanian phone companies.

How can I control how much internet I’m using in Romania?

Most of the mobile providers offer data monitoring tools or apps where you can find out how much data you use overseas. You may also decide to use parental control for your phone, such as setting explicit warnings or limits.

Should I switch on the “Data Roaming” of my phone to use the internet in Romania?

Yes, it’s usually the case that you have to turn on “Data Roaming” or “Cellular Data Roaming” on your mobile phone to be able to surf the web in Romania. Navigate to the “Mobile Data” or “Cellular” section on your phone to see the details.

V. Conclusion

In the end, roaming in Romania makes it easy and smooth for travelers to keep in touch. Even though some worry about the price, many cheap choices let you use the internet wherever you are. This means you can enjoy Romania’s stunning views and deep culture without stress, staying in touch with family and friends and getting the services you need.