The new EU roaming rules which came into effect in June 2017, means holidaymakers are now able to roam in the same way they are at home, with any data usage taken out of their agreed allowance.
A survey conducted by leading beach holiday specialist On the Beach has revealed that whilst new EU data roaming charges came into effect in June last year, more than one in 10 holidaymakers are completely unaware of these changes and still expect to be charged for any use.
The survey of 1,000 British holidaymakers found that 16% of travellers are unaware of the changes whilst more than a quarter (27%) say that although they are aware of these changes, they are not clear on the facts and are unsure about whether they will still be charged for data usage whilst abroad.
The new EU roaming rules which came into effect in June 2017, means holidaymakers are now able to roam in the same way they are at home, with any data usage taken out of their agreed allowance. However, the research conducted by the online travel agent found that less than half of those surveyed are aware of these changes and fully understand the new rules.
The survey also revealed that despite this new legislation which sees the end of sky high roaming charges, 6% of British holidaymakers will not use their phone abroad at all, so concerned are they about the potential costs.
Since the new EU rules came into effect, less than half (43%) said they use more data when they’re on foreign shores whilst almost one in 10 (9%) said they use it less, despite the fact they will no longer be hit with further costs.
According to the results, many people’s usage will not change at all, with 42% saying they will use the same amount of data as they did before these changes were introduced.
The survey also revealed the mobile habits of Brits abroad with the majority (46%) saying they use apps such as WhatsApp to keep in touch with friends and family at home whilst almost a third (32%) said they post content and updates on social media sites such as Facebook.
One in five use data to source local bars, restaurants and attractions while in resort with 7% admitting to checking the weather back home.
The survey also revealed that the majority of Brits are able to completely switch off from work during their holiday, with just 4% admitting to checking work emails.
Alan Harding, Marketing Director at On the Beach comments: “This lack of understanding suggests our government and indeed mobile service providers simply haven’t done enough to make sure people understand these new EU regulations. For years, many British holidaymakers have returned home from their holiday only to be find they have been charged extortionate prices for their data usage, so this is great news for all.”
Tatiana is the news coordinator for TravelDailyNews Media Network (traveldailynews.gr, traveldailynews.com and traveldailynews.asia). Her role includes monitoring the hundreds of news sources of TravelDailyNews Media Network and skimming the most important according to our strategy.
She holds a Bachelor's degree in Communication & Mass Media from Panteion University of Political & Social Studies of Athens and she has been editor and editor-in-chief in various economic magazines and newspapers.
