There are currently four major telecoms operating in the UK, and several Mobile virtual network operators(MVNO) working with these four carriers. Since June 2017, the EU has abolished roaming charges within the EU, which means that regardless of whether you use a monthly plan, a prepaid card or Pay As You Go, you will pay the same rates for internet and call charge when traveling in the EU as you would in your home country, and you do not need to pay roaming charges.
Currently, 28 member countries of the European Union, includes Iceland, Norway, and Liechtenstein of the European Free Trade Association (EFTA) are benefit from this regulation, but not Switzerland.
The European cross-country sim cards sold by British carriers are available on many channels around the world, but the countries supported by each carrier are different, and the plans and network quality are also a bit different, so let’s get to know these four carriers before purchasing!
Introduction of 4 major telecom in the UK
4G band of the UK telecom
| 4G/LTE band | 1800(B3) | 2600(B7) | 800(B20) |
|---|---|---|---|
| EE | |||
| O2 | |||
| Vodafone | |||
| 3UK |
How to choose internet service for you?
There are three main types of plans in the UK. My suggestion is that consider your needs with only data or include call, the length of time you will be using the service, the quality of each carrier, the price of the plan, etc.
Pay As You Go
It is the best solution for people who are studying or traveling in the UK for a short period of time. They can use as much as they want without worrying about the contract. The card can be purchased at all major telecommunication stores, supermarkets and airports. Top-up method is very convenient as well.
Sim Only/ Pay Monthly
The most common options are 1-month and 12-month contracts, with some telecoms offering a 24-month option.
Contract Mobile Phone
It is the best solution for people who are living in the UK for a long time and also want to change your cell phone. You can refer to the long term contract of your cell phone, usually 18 or 24 months.
Roaming in European of 4 major telecom
It’s very common to travel around Europe if you stay in one of the European country. There are plans for people from the UK roaming to other European countries with the UK’s telecom sharing:
Summary
I have studied in the north of the UK and used Giffgaff Sim card. I switched to 3 Telecom’s Pay As You Go because the signal of this provider was weak in my town. I suggest that if you are staying in the UK for a long time, you should check if there is a strong provider in your area. All in all, I was able to roam directly to several popular European countries, and although there were only 3G signals in the remote areas, I was able to use it without too many problems, and I was able to recharge it quickly on the official website (using a UK credit card). The support for roaming in 73 countries is really powerful.
This article is especially recommended for those who are going to the UK for short or long term work, study or travel. There are more chances to use local phone numbers to make calls and send SMS. Vodafone is suitable for business people who will travel across Europe. We suggest you to check which local telecom is more stable and whether there is a physical store before comparing the price and plan type.
