Switzerland is a tourist’s paradise. From the breathtaking landscape of the Matterhorn to the mesmerizing Rhine Falls to multiple UNESCO World Heritage sites, the number of things for someone to do in the Playground of Europe is virtually endless.
In addition to a well-made itinerary, there’s one thing that is essential to tourists visiting Switzerland: a functional mobile device.
You can use the connection from your country in Switzerland, but the phone bill is going to be scary.
This is why it is important to learn about international roaming charges in Switzerland. This guide dives into this topic, discussing all the essential components of international roaming in Switzerland. It also talks about the benefits of a Switzerland SIM card for tourists. Read on!
Why Staying Connected in Switzerland Matters
Visiting a foreign country brings its share of excitement and hardships. Most of the hardships can be tackled if you have a functional mobile device in your hands.
But what are the actual benefits of staying connected as a tourist in Switzerland?
- Connecting to Folks Back Home: With a working mobile phone, it becomes easy to stay in touch with family and friends back home. Professionals can also stay updated on what’s going on at their workplace.
- Navigation: GPS and maps remove the difficulty involved in getting from point A to point B.
- Access to Real-Time Information: Easier to be updated on working hours of businesses, events and concerts, the weather, and other crucial information.
- Photo and Video Sharing: Share memories on the go. No need to wait for free Wi-Fi spots.
- Using the Public Transport System: Ability to use the SBB app, which greatly simplifies using Switzerland’s public transport system.
What Is International Roaming and How Does It Work?
You now know the importance of staying connected as a tourist in Switzerland.
But what exactly is international roaming in Switzerland, and how does it work?
International roaming allows a person to use mobile services by connecting to the network(s) in the visiting country. As a tourist, you will need a valid international roaming plan in Switzerland if you don’t want to incur exorbitant charges.
You may probably be wondering why roaming charges in Switzerland are high since the concept remains the same. Well, here is how the entire process works.
- When you activate your mobile device, it starts searching for a network.
- As soon as it finds one, it sends a signal to the mobile network.
- The foreign network verifies the SIM card details and subscription information with your home network.
- The home network authenticates the connection request and provides authorization for use of mobile services in the foreign country.
- The foreign network provides the requested mobile services and reports back the usage details for billing.
Your Roaming Options in Switzerland
Although Switzerland happens to be a landlocked country between Central, Western, and Southern Europe, it is not a member state of the EU. As a result, it doesn’t come under the EU Roaming Regulation.
Considering this scenario, tourists have two options to stay connected while visiting Switzerland.
Use Your Current Mobile Number
This is something that most users do. Rather than going through the hassle of getting a new SIM, simply purchase an international roaming plan from your home network provider.
Based on your home network operator, you may have the option to choose from multiple international roaming plans in Switzerland. Choose one that suits your needs and budget, and you are good to go.
It is also important to keep an eye on the terms and conditions of the plan you’re choosing. This helps avoid surprise roaming charges in Switzerland.
Buy a Local Prepaid SIM
Purchasing a Switzerland SIM card for tourists may not be a sensible option, especially for those on short trips, but it is an option, nonetheless. Local prepaid SIM cards are better suited for those who plan to stay for over a month.
There are many service providers, like Lyca Mobile, offering tourist-friendly prepaid plans. Here are the steps involved in getting a local prepaid SIM card to counter roaming charges in Switzerland.
- Visit the store of a network operator or service provider. They usually have stores in the airport.
- Submit one of the following documents:
- A valid ID
- A proof of address
- A Swiss work permit/letter of confirmation
- Provide payment details
- Insert the SIM into your device and follow the instructions for activation
Buy an eSIM
Another option is to purchase an eSIM card in Switzerland.
An eSIM card in Switzerland is ideal for travelers who don’t have to deal with the hassle of submitting documents or purchasing a physical SIM card. There are three ways tourists in Switzerland can activate an eSIM.
- Visit the website of the operator they wish to use, scan the QR code, and follow the instructions.
- Download the app of the operator and follow the instructions provided.
- Manually input the eSIM information of the operator they plan to use.
Cost-Saving Tips for Roaming in Switzerland
It’s easy to use your mobile device outside your home network and end up with exorbitant charges. However, a few handy tips can prevent a lot of stress down the line.
Here are some ways you can save money when roaming in Switzerland.
- Activate a roaming plan: Make sure you leave the airport with an active roaming plan from your home network provider.
- Rent a pocket Wi-Fi device: Some service providers offer mobile hotspot devices that provide 4G/5G internet plans on a daily, weekly, and monthly basis. These mobile hotspots also offer the convenience of connecting multiple devices at the same time.
- Use public Wi-Fi: This works best when paired with a roaming plan without data. Taking advantage of the free public Wi-Fi will shave off a considerable amount from your roaming bill.
A Step-by-Step Guide to Activate Roaming
It is important for the average mobile user to know that roaming, by default, is disabled. This is to prevent surprise charges when you use your phone in a foreign country.
Both the major operating systems, Android and iOS, have different ways to enable data roaming. These steps are detailed below.
How to Enable Data Roaming on an iPhone
- Tap on Settings
- Select Mobile Data/Cellular Data (varies based on iOS version)
- If your device has dual SIM functionality, tap on the SIM you want to enable data roaming
- Toggle the Data Roaming option Off
Best Practices While Roaming in Switzerland
Regardless of whether you have an international roaming plan in Switzerland or not, it helps to follow the best practices to avoid inconvenience and excess charges. Here are some useful pointers to consider for those travelling to Switzerland.
- Opt for an eSIM or a local SIM card.
- Make sure data roaming is disabled if you plan to use public Wi-Fi or a pocket Wi-Fi device.
- Switzerland has plenty of public Wi-Fi spots. Make use of them.
- Disable data in your device. Background operations like email, messaging apps, and automatic updates will consume data, even when your device is idle.
- Monitor data usage to make sure you don’t exceed data limits.
FAQs About Roaming in Switzerland
Can I use my phone without a Swiss SIM?
Yes, you can use your phone without a Swiss SIM, provided you purchase a roaming plan with your network operator or use public Wi-Fi.
How much does roaming cost in Switzerland?
The roaming charges in Switzerland vary based on the services you use and the location you are calling or receiving calls from. Lyca Mobile has dedicated plans that combine benefits for calling, text messages, and data.
Should I buy a local SIM or use my home carrier?
This depends on the duration of your stay, the destination, and the benefits you’re expecting. For short visits, consider activating a roaming plan in your home carrier. A Switzerland SIM card for tourists is the recommended option for those planning for an extended stay.
Can I use an eSIM in Switzerland?
Yes, you can. Lyca Mobile has attractive eSIM options for those visiting Switzerland. These plans pack many benefits, like unlimited calls and text messages, dedicated calling minutes and data for use in the EU and UK, and free activations.
How to avoid extra roaming charges?
To avoid extra roaming charges, make sure airplane mode is enabled, use offline apps that function without a connection to the internet, turn off background apps, set data usage alerts, and use free Wi-Fi wherever possible.
Conclusion
Switzerland pulls a huge number of tourists every year, thanks to its scenic hiking trails, magnificent museums, exotic beaches, and delectable cuisine.
A functional mobile device is essential for an enjoyable trip. It greatly simplifies every aspect of the trip, from travelling, making payments, and checking the weather to sharing photos and videos and making calls to loved ones back home.
Lyca Mobile has attractive plans for tourists visiting Switzerland. Here’s a sneak peek of what’s in store when you purchase a Switzerland Prepaid SIM card for tourists.
- Unlimited calls and SMS (applicable to select countries)
- High-speed internet
- eSIM compatibility
- Reliable network connectivity
- Data and roaming plans with excellent value
- Zero contracts and commitment
Be sure to check our eSIM plans and Prepaid SIM Plans to get started.