If you’ve ever traveled abroad with your home SIM card, you’ve probably been warned to “turn off mobile data” the moment you land. Why? Because traditional roaming fees can add up to hundreds of dollars before you even realize it. But with eSIMs, the rules have changed. Let’s explore when you should keep data on, when to turn it off, and how to avoid bill shock while traveling. Why Travelers Turn Off Mobile Data With a traditional SIM and roaming: Background apps can eat up data without you noticing. High roaming fees mean even light usage can become expensive. Many carriers charge daily or per-MB rates that aren’t transparent. This is why so many travelers switch their phones to airplane mode or Wi-Fi-only the moment they leave their home country. Why You Can Keep Data On with eSIM When you use a Roamvy eSIM, roaming fees aren’t an issue. That’s because you’re not “roaming” in the traditional sense — you’re connecting directly to a local network at local rates. Benefits of keeping your data on with Roamvy: Stay connected instantly when you land. No surprise charges — you know what you’re paying upfront. Apps run smoothly in the background (maps, messaging, ride-hailing). Smart Data Habits While Traveling Even with an eSIM, it’s smart to use your data efficiently: Download maps and playlists for offline use. Turn off auto-updates for apps while abroad. Use Wi-Fi when convenient to save your mobile data for when you need it most. The Best Option: Control and Flexibility With Roamvy, you get the best of both worlds: eSIMs in 200+ countries. Flexible plans. Instant setup. Choose the right plan — from Regular for light browsing to Unlimited for heavy users. Build-Your-Own plan if you want total control over your data. FAQs Will my phone use data in the background if I leave it on? Yes, but you can control this in settings by turning off background app refresh or limiting data-hungry apps. Can I use my home SIM for calls and a Roamvy eSIM for data? Yes. With dual SIM, you can keep your home number active for calls and SMS, while using Roamvy for affordable data. What if I run out of data? You can easily top up or extend your plan through the Roamvy app or website. Final Thoughts With old-fashioned roaming, keeping data on while abroad was a recipe for disaster. With Roamvy eSIMs, it’s the opposite — you can travel confidently, keep your data on, and stay connected without fear of hidden costs. The real question isn’t whether to keep data on or off anymore. It’s how much freedom you want while you travel. Wherever you roam, stay connected. Stop worrying about roaming fees — keep your data on with Roamvy. Get your eSIM today →