Mobile Phone on Vacation: Tips to Avoid the Cost Trap

In principle, the same rates apply EU-wide for temporary stays as in Austria. However, one must be cautious about costs outside the EU, as well as on ships and airplanes, even if they are traveling between EU countries. "Here, separate billing models of shipping companies and airlines apply, which can potentially bypass the cost cap," according to the FMK.

FMK reminds of cautious use of mobile phones on vacation

For travels beyond the EU borders, the FMK recommends booking roaming packages in advance with your mobile contract partner. This protects against unpleasant surprises on the monthly bill. Those who have not booked a package should pay attention to the warning SMS received once the limit of 60 euros is reached. Further costs - but also connections - are only possible after active consent.

The voicemail can also cause unexpected costs when traveling outside the EU, even if it is not listened to. Therefore, the FMK advises deactivating the voicemail if it is not absolutely necessary.

Apart from that, the usual safety tips apply with even more urgency. If the smartphone is stolen or lost, you should immediately contact the mobile provider to have the SIM card blocked. The hotline number should be kept separately. The screen lock should be activated in any case, "even better: activate SIM card PIN and device location services," according to the FMK. Those who want to make calls abroad should not forget the international dialing codes, even for calls to numbers at home in Austria.

(APA/Red.)

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