Before you go...

Before you go abroad with your mobile, go through this checklist.

Is your account enabled for roaming?

Make sure that your account has been enabled for roaming. You may need to give a few days notice for this to be arranged, and may be asked to pay a deposit.

Unfortunately, it is not easy to establish whether roaming is actually enabled till you get there, but often international calling is enabled at the same time, and it's easy to check this: just dial an overseas number and see if it rings! Another clue for Orange and T-mobile users is if a call barring menu appears on your handset.

Prepare your answerphone

Set a pin code on your answer phone: if you don't do this before you leave your home network, you won't be able to access your messages.

Be prepared to charge

Consider battery chargers: Your mains charger will probably work with most mains supplies, but it won't fit the mains socket! For mainland Europe, a simple continental plug adapter from your local supermarket will do fine. Don't forget that car cigar lighter sockets are the same all over the world.

... and to be charged

Check the charges for the networks you'll be visiting: some networks charge significantly more than others, so selecting the right network could save you a lot of money. Some of the UK networks' web sites give details of roaming charges, but these rates are subject to change.

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