To turn on data roaming on an iPhone 7, open Settings > Cellular > Cellular Data Options and turn on Data Roaming. Your iPhone can then use cellular data on other carriers’ networks while you travel. Check your carrier’s roaming rates first, because roaming data can be expensive.
These steps are the same on newer iPhones. Depending on your region, Cellular may be called Mobile Data or Mobile Service.
Quick Answer
Settings > Cellular > Cellular Data Options > turn on Data Roaming.
Turn On Data Roaming
- Open Settings.
- Tap Cellular (or Mobile Data).
- Tap Cellular Data Options. With more than one line, tap the line first.
- Turn on Data Roaming.
Turn it off again when you return home, or while traveling if you want to avoid charges and use Wi-Fi only.
Avoid Surprise Roaming Charges
| Tip | How |
|---|---|
| Check or buy a travel plan | Contact your carrier or use its app before you go |
| Use Low Data Mode | Cellular Data Options > Low Data Mode (or Data Mode) |
| Limit apps | Settings > Cellular > turn off cellular data for heavy apps |
| Watch your usage | Settings > Cellular shows data used this period; reset the statistics before your trip |
| Use a local or travel eSIM | Settings > Cellular > Add eSIM, if your iPhone supports eSIM |
The iPhone 7 doesn’t support eSIM; newer models do.
To save data while traveling, turn off video autoplay.
Want fewer interruptions abroad? You can also silence Mail notifications.
Sharing files while away? See how to attach Google Drive files to email on iPhone.
Traveling? Keep an eye on your battery percentage too.
Flying? You can also turn on airplane mode on your Apple Watch.
To save data at home, also turn off Wi-Fi Assist.
Troubleshooting
- No data abroad with roaming on: Make sure Cellular Data is on, your plan includes roaming, and try Airplane mode on and off. You may need to select a network manually in Settings > Cellular > Network Selection.
- Data Roaming is missing: Some carriers show it under Voice & Data or manage roaming through their app.
- Voice roaming: Older iPhones on CDMA carriers had a separate setting; see international CDMA roaming on iPhone 7.
- Sharing data while traveling: Hotspot use counts toward roaming; check Personal Hotspot usage.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does data roaming cost money?
Often, yes, unless your plan includes international data. Charges depend on your carrier and destination.
Should I leave data roaming on at home?
Domestic roaming on partner networks is usually included in U.S. plans. International roaming is what typically costs extra.
Can I still use Wi-Fi with roaming off?
Yes. Wi-Fi, iMessage over Wi-Fi, and Wi-Fi calling (if supported) still work.
Summary
- Open Settings > Cellular.
- Tap Cellular Data Options.
- Turn on Data Roaming.
- Check your carrier’s roaming rates.
Kermit Matthews is a freelance writer based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania with more than a decade of experience writing technology guides. He has a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Computer Science and has spent much of his professional career in IT management.
He specializes in writing content about iPhones, Android devices, Microsoft Office, and many other popular applications and devices.