Mobile users urged to show caution on foreign holidays

Britons planning Algarve villa holidays and other overseas breaks have been urged to be aware of potential charges they could incur when using their mobile phone.

Price comparison website uSwitch.com said that recent EU legislations to limit the cost of making or receiving calls abroad does not do enough to protect consumers.

The company carried out a survey which found that 22 million people will be taking their phones abroad this year, but 15 million won't check the cost beforehand.

A third (32 per cent) of the people polled said they had been shocked by a large mobile phone bill after returning from an overseas break in the past.

Consumers planning Algarve villa holidays and other trips were encouraged to contact their provider first to check overseas charges and possibly ask about a roaming package if they will be using their phone on a regular basis.

Matthew Wheeler, communications expert at uSwitch.com, said: "Contacting your mobile network should be high on every mobile user's holiday checklist, alongside their sun cream and passport.

"Using a mobile phone abroad shouldn't automatically lead to a big bill if people stay in control."

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