How do I make calls, send SMS and get online with international roaming?
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However you choose to use your mobile device while you’re holidaying overseas, we’re here to help you stay connected, and make sure you know exactly just how much it’s going to cost when you return home.
Making calls and sending SMS/texts
If you can make a call from overseas, that means international roaming has been activated on your Telstra mobile service.
If you can’t make calls or send SMS, first check:
- Your international dialling code
- If your service has been restricted because of an overdue payment
- You have activated international roaming in the My Telstra app
Connecting to the internet overseas
Sometimes, it takes up to 10 minutes for your phone to connect to one of our overseas mobile network partners. If you still can’t connect, check:
- Your phone settings as data roaming may be disabled. To do this, follow the instructions for different brands of mobile devices on our device guides
- Your My Telstra app to ensure that ‘international roaming’ is selected. Also, select ‘Day Pass’ if you’re on an Upfront Plan
International roaming on a cruise
On an Upfront Plan
International roaming is not compatible. Your best option here is to access the ship’s own Wi-Fi. To do this, turn off international roaming from the My Telstra app, to avoid more costly pay-as-you-go rates.
On other mobile plans such as Pre-Paid
International roaming may be compatible. If the cruise ship turns on their satellite service, your mobile device will be able to connect the strongest signal available.
If you choose this option, you’ll be accessing international roaming at pay-as-you-go rates, which are charged at $3 per MB. This is significantly more expensive than a Day Pass option. Telstra will send you an SMS to advise you of these rates.
Your other option here is to access the ship’s own Wi-Fi. To do this, turn off international roaming from the My Telstra app.
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