To turn on roaming on iPhone 13, open Settings > Cellular > Cellular Data Options, then toggle on Data Roaming. This is the exact, verified way to turn on roaming iPhone 13 so you can use cellular data while traveling outside your carrier's coverage area.
How to turn on roaming on your iPhone 13
Before enabling data roaming, make sure Cellular Data is turned on in Settings > Cellular. Apple's roaming instructions apply to iPhone and iPad and specifically mention single SIM or eSIM and Dual SIM or Dual eSIM setups. On Samsung phones, Bell documents the path as Settings > Connections > Mobile networks > Data roaming. On a Google smartphone, Bell documents the path as Settings > Network & Internet > SIMs > Roaming. Bell says Android users may also need Mobile data on for roaming to work. Bell's Android roaming instructions are documented separately for Samsung and Google smartphone devices.
- Open Settings and tap Cellular.
- Tap Cellular Data Options.
- Toggle Data Roaming on.
For dual SIM or dual eSIM setups
- In Settings > Cellular, tap the line or number you want to change. If the iPhone uses Dual SIM or Dual eSIM, first tap the line you want to change, then tap Cellular Data Options, then turn on Data Roaming.
- Tap Cellular Data Options.
- Toggle Data Roaming on for that line.
Bell's Android help pages indicate that some devices show a warning before turning roaming on, and you may need to confirm it with OK. If your device shows a warning before turning roaming on, confirm it with OK. The phone will then use cellular data outside your carrier's network coverage area.
What does the data roaming setting do?
Apple defines this toggle as controlling only cellular data when outside the carrier's network. It does not manage voice or text roaming. If data roaming is off, the phone will not use cellular data outside the carrier's network coverage area. Turning on Data Roaming allows internet access when the carrier’s network does not cover the region, and you can turn it off the same way to avoid roaming charges.
How to avoid unexpected roaming charges
Turn data roaming off when you do not need it by reversing the steps above. Use Wi-Fi networks whenever possible for internet access. Before traveling, contact your carrier about international plans or add a travel eSIM to stay connected without surprise bills. Apple says to contact the carrier about international plans or add a travel eSIM if you need to stay connected while traveling. Ask your carrier about international calling and plans to understand what is included in your service. Disable automatic app updates and downloads while roaming, and use internet-based communication apps for calls and messages instead of traditional cellular services.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will turning on roaming incur additional charges?
Yes, roaming may result in additional charges from your mobile service provider. Charges vary by carrier and country. Check with your carrier to understand the rates and plans available for international roaming before enabling it.
Can I use my iPhone 13 overseas without turning on roaming?
Yes. Without roaming, your iPhone 13 can only connect to available Wi-Fi networks for internet access. To make calls or send messages, use internet-based apps like FaceTime or WhatsApp that rely on Wi-Fi or data connections.
Can I access my iCloud data while roaming?
Yes, you can access iCloud data while roaming if you have an active data connection. However, using iCloud services while roaming may incur additional data charges, so monitor your usage.
What should I do if data roaming is not working?
First, ensure Data Roaming is toggled on and Cellular Data is enabled. Ensure that your carrier has enabled roaming services on your account. Restart your iPhone 13. Try resetting your network settings. To do this, go to Settings > General > Reset > Reset Network Settings. Check if your iPhone 13's software is up to date. Updating to the latest iOS version can sometimes resolve connectivity issues. If the issue persists, contact your carrier to confirm roaming is active on your account and ask about compatible international plans or a travel eSIM.
For the wider topic, see international calling and plans.
