If you're with EE and planning a trip outside the UK, you've probably wondered what happens the moment your plane touches down. Will you have data? Can people still call you? And what's it going to cost?
Let's unpack what EE offers, where the costs hide, and how you can stay connected without stress — or a shocking bill.
How EE Roaming Works
EE lets you roam in certain countries for a daily fee. If you're on one of their newer plans, they might include some roaming by default. But for most SIM-only or basic plans, here's the general rule:
- £2.29 a day in the EU
- Up to £6.85 a day outside the EU
The charges start as soon as your phone connects to a network abroad. Even if you don't actively use it, background apps or messages can trigger the charge. That means just checking Google Maps or getting a WhatsApp ping could cost you.
If you're away for a week or more, this adds up fast.
EE Roaming Add-Ons
EE offers roaming passes and travel data boosts, but they're often limited to specific zones or require you to top up in advance. Some users find them confusing, especially when switching between countries.
And while EE's network is strong at home, once you're abroad, you're relying on partner networks — which might not be as fast or stable.
The Travel eSIM Shortcut
Many people turn to eSIM services like Airalo or Holafly to get cheaper data while abroad. It's a great option if you just need internet.
But switching to a travel eSIM usually turns off your EE SIM. That means:
- No incoming calls to your UK number
- No texts or SMS (think: bank codes, delivery verifications, 2FA)
- People can't reach you unless they have your temporary number
You end up with internet — but feel disconnected from your real life.
The Better Way: Keep My Number
It's a simple tool that keeps your UK number active even when you're using a travel eSIM. You can:
- Get calls and texts to your normal number
- Receive important codes and messages (from banks, WhatsApp, etc.)
- Stay reachable to anyone in the UK
And here's the bonus: Keep My Number also offers global data at great prices. So instead of juggling apps and SIMs, you can do it all in one place.
- Global coverage across many countries
- Affordable data packages
- No need to replace or remove anything
Final Thoughts
EE works well in the UK, but roaming abroad comes with limits and costs. If you're looking for a smarter, simpler way to travel:
- Use a travel eSIM for local data (or even better, global data from Keep My Number)
- Use Keep My Number to stay connected to your UK life
No surprises. No dropped messages. Just one setup that keeps you online, reachable, and in control — wherever you are.
Ready to Keep Your Number?
Stay connected while traveling – download the app now and keep your number wherever you are in the world!
