To remain alive in the Netherlands, it is crucial to know about roaming in the Netherlands. In this blog post, we will explain how roaming works, the usual tariffs, and which strategies to avoid additional charges to your bill. If you are worried about exceeding data usage or incurring charges, read on for information on how to avoid being caught in the pitfalls of roaming, for visitors in the Netherlands travel.
Table of Contents
I. Understand Data Roaming in the Netherlands
Roaming charges refer to any additional fees applied when you use your mobile phone service in a foreign country rather than your domestic network. This occurs because you will be “roaming” on another carrier’s wireless network in that foreign country.
The 3 main types of roaming charges include:
- Voice calls: Extra fees for calls while roaming.
- Data use: High roaming rates for internet use. Streaming or downloads can be expensive.
- Text messages: Small extra charge for SMS texts.
There is also a fact that roaming rates in the Netherlands are higher than in many other European countries. However, travelers from EU member states don’t pay extra for roaming within the EU.
II. Roaming Charges in the Netherlands
The Netherlands is a lively nation blessed with canals, windmills, and cities that are worth visiting by tourists. However, before off to travel, it is important to factor in possible charges that might be incurred when using your mobile phone in this country.
1. How to Check Roaming Charges Before Your Travel to the Netherlands
- Contact your mobile provider: Reach out to your mobile provider for details on roaming charges in the Netherlands. Check their website or call customer service.
- Check roaming fees: Use online tools or resources from your provider to check roaming rates for your plan. This way helps you compare rates easily.
- Call Customer Service: If you have questions about your roaming charges, call customer service for help.
2. Roaming Charge in the Netherlands by Germany Mobile Operators
German mobile operators offer varying roaming rates in the Netherlands. Here’s a breakdown of typical charges for calls, texts, and data:
| Mobile Operator | Calls (per minute) | Texts (per message) | Data (per MB) |
| Telekom | $0.50 | $0.20 | $0.10 |
| O2 | $0.45 | $0.15 | $0.08 |
| Vodafone | $0.40 | $0.10 | $0.05 |
Data roaming charges in the Netherlands may differ depending on the carrier and rate plan. Before departing for another country, find out how much it will set you back to roam. You can do this through your provider, searching on the web, or through customer service.
Note: In the table, the prices are average and may vary depending on the plan and promotion. In every case, it’s advised to consult with your provider for the most updated information.
III. Best Ways to Avoid Roaming Charges in the Netherlands
Traveling to the Netherlands shouldn’t break the bank. With a little planning, you can avoid hefty roaming charges and stay connected without the stress. Here are 5 of the best ways to keep your mobile costs down:
- Buy an eSIM
- Buy an international Netherlands SIM card
- Rely on Wi-Fi
- Turn off data roaming
- Get a virtual phone number
1. Buy an eSIM from netherlandsesim.com
This seems to be the easiest and cheapest way of avoiding the outrageous roaming charges in the Netherlands. netherlandsesim.com has some eSIM options with different data volumes and subscription periods.
- Data-only plans: We offer data from 1GB to 50GB with durations ranging from 3 days to 30 days.
- Data & Voice plans: Get a mix of data and free calls and SMSs for a complete package.
Here’s why this place is a great choice:
- Digital and Instant: Get your eSIM via email in minutes.
- Easy Activation: Scan a QR code to connect.
- Save Roaming Fees: Avoid expensive roaming charges.
The registration process is simple and takes just a few minutes online. Provide your email, pick a plan, and make the payment. After that, you’ll get an email with the eSIM QR code and installation steps.
2. Buy an international Netherlands SIM Card
You can typically find these at airports, convenience stores, and mobile phone retailers.
Steps to buy a SIM card:
- Pick a provider: Compare prices and data plans.
- Get the SIM card: Make sure you buy from an authorized store.
- Activate it: Follow the instructions to activate it.
3. Use Free Wi-Fi
Many hotels, restaurants, cafes, and public spaces offer free Wi-Fi. This can be a low-cost and great way to stay connected without incurring roaming charges.
4. Turn Off Data Roaming
If you don’t need to use mobile data, turning off data roaming is essential to prevent unexpected charges.
How to turn off data roaming on Android devices:
- Open Settings.
- Tap on Network & internet.
- Tap on Mobile network.
- Turn off Data roaming.
How to turn off data roaming on iPhone devices:
- Open Settings.
- Tap on Cellular.
- Turn off Cellular Data Roaming.
5. Get a Virtual Phone Number
A virtual phone number lets you get calls and texts without using your real number. It helps avoid roaming charges and keeps your number private.
Pros:
- No roaming fees: Get calls and texts without extra charges.
- Privacy: Your personal number stays private.
Cons:
- Limited use: You might not call or text from it.
- Spam risk: Sometimes used for spam and scams.
IV. FAQs about Data Roaming in the Netherlands
Can I use data roaming in the Netherlands?
Yes, you can use data roaming in the Netherlands. The EU has rules requiring wireless carriers to allow data roaming across all EU/EEA countries at no extra cost beyond domestic rates.
Is data roaming free in the EU?
Data roaming within the EU is free of any additional roaming charges beyond normal domestic rates. This includes the Netherlands as it is part of the EU. Wireless carriers are not allowed to charge you extra fees simply for using your phone while traveling within the EU.
Can I use my data in the Netherlands EE?
If you have a mobile plan with EE in the UK, then yes you can use your data in the Netherlands without any extra fees due to EU-wide roaming rules. EE is required to allow you to use your regular data allowance while traveling in other EU/EEA countries just like at home. Do note that speed and coverage may vary compared to UK usage, but you should not face any additional costs.
Can I use my mobile hotspot when traveling through the Netherlands?
Yes. Mobile Hotspot is available when roaming in the Netherlands but you should note that this frequently involves high data usage and is often chargeable or restricted.
How will roaming in the Netherlands affect my data speed?
Roaming data speed may differ with the carrier and the network conditions available in the Netherlands but on average it is good. However, the speed is likely to be comparatively lower than what you would usually get on your home network.
V. Conclusion
Overall, when in the Netherlands, roaming is an effective way, through which one can still communicate with his or her loved ones and the outside world without having to use expensive communication gadgets. To do this, you can review the current roaming policies, data limit, and additional charges which will enable you to make the right decisions in using mobile data. Getting a roaming service in the Netherlands is very easy and will not pose a problem whether you’re an EU citizen or a tourist from outside Europe.
