If you're planning a trip to Hungary, understanding the landscape of roaming charges is crucial for staying connected. Let's dive into the ins and outs of roaming in this beautiful Central European country.

Are there roaming charges in Hungary?

Yes, roaming charges can apply in Hungary, but the situation has improved significantly for EU residents in recent years. Thanks to the "Roam Like at Home" initiative, EU citizens can use their domestic mobile plans in Hungary without incurring additional fees. However, for travelers from outside the EU, roaming charges are still a reality that requires careful consideration.

When do roaming charges apply in Hungary?

Roaming charges typically kick in when you're using a non-Hungarian SIM card in Hungary. For EU residents, these charges generally don't apply unless you exceed your plan's fair use policy. Non-EU visitors will likely face roaming fees as soon as they start using their home network's services in Hungary. It's worth noting that even receiving calls or texts can incur charges, so it's essential to be aware of your usage from the moment you arrive.

Roaming fees and charges in Hungary

Disclaimer: Prices and plans are subject to change. Always check with your provider for the most up-to-date information.

We've compiled an overview of roaming and carrier fees for Hungary:

EE (UK): [1]

• It costs 70p a minute and 30p a text to use your device in the EE Europe zone without an add-on. You also need to buy a 500MB data add-on for £3.

Joi (India): [2]

• Local call/call to India: 5 RS per Min

• Call to rest of the world: 100 RS per Min

• SMS: 5 RS per Min

• Internet: .05 RS per 10 KB

• Europe Pack: ₹ 2899 - 200 mins voice, 100 SMS, 5 GB valid for 30 days

Turkcell (Turkey): [3]

• Use your own plan for 250 TL per day

• 250 TL per week for 1 GB, 200 mins, 100 SMS

• 400 TL for 2 weeks for 2 GB, 200 mins, 100 SMS

Vodafone (Turkey): [4]

• Use your own plan for 299 TL per day

• 469 TL per 30 days for 3 GB, 30 Mins, 15 SMS

Turk Telekom (Turkey): [5]

• 450 TL per month for 3 GB, 100 Mins, 1000 SMS

Orange (France): [6]

Holiday Hungary 1GB package limited to 7 days for €4.99:

• 1 GB in 4G/LTE

• Calls NOT included

• Messages NOT included

Holiday Hungary 12GB package limited to 14 days for €19.99:

• 12 GB in 4G/LTE

• Unlimited calls

• 30 mins to the rest of the world

Rogers (Canada): [7]

• $15.00 per 20 MB

• $0.75 per text

• $2.00 per min

• or $15.00 per day - Pay the daily fee and use your own plan (Maximum 20 days per billing cycle)

Verizon (USA): [8]

• $2.05 per MB

• $1.79 per min

• Travel Pass: $10 per day to use your own plan

T-Mobile (USA): [9]

• $5 per day: 512MB data, unlimited calling

• $35 for 10 days: 5GB data, unlimited calling

• $50 for 30 days: 15GB data, unlimited calling

Remember, these rates can change, and additional fees may apply. Always check with your provider for the most up-to-date information.

How to avoid roaming charges in Hungary

You can also check our guide on how to avoid roaming charges for more details. Follow these steps to keep your communication costs in check:

• eSIM can provide more flexibility and control over your usage.

• Use Wi-Fi whenever possible and download offline maps before your trip.

• Turn off data roaming and automatic app updates on your device.

• Use messaging apps that work over Wi-Fi for calls and texts.

Roamless eSIM: Your Smart Choice for Hungary

When it comes to staying connected in Hungary without the headache of traditional roaming, Roamless eSIM offers a suite of features tailored to modern travelers:

• No speed throttling: Enjoy full-speed data just like the locals.

• Pay-as-you-go flexibility: Only pay for what you use, perfect for spontaneous trips.

• Funds never expire: Your balance stays valid for future travels.

• Multi-country compatibility: Ideal for exploring beyond Hungary's borders.

• Local network speeds: Connect to Hungary's best networks for optimal performance.

• Easy activation: Get set up quickly without the need to swap physical SIM cards.

Check our eSIM Hungary page or our guide on the best eSIM for Hungary before planning your trip. With Roamless eSIM, you can navigate Budapest's stunning architecture, relax in the thermal baths, or work remotely from a cozy café, all while staying connected effortlessly. It's the modern solution for the connected traveler who values simplicity and efficiency.

Sources:

[1] https://ee.co.uk/help/mobile/roaming/roaming-costs/countries/hungary

[2] https://www.jio.com/selfcare/plans/mobility/ir-plans-details/?selectedCountries=HU

[3] https://www.turkcell.com.tr/paket-ve-tarifeler/yurt-disinda-kullanim

[4] https://www.vodafone.com.tr/tarifeler/ek-paketler/yurt-disi-kullanim

[5] https://bireysel.turktelekom.com.tr/mobil/yurt-disi

[6] https://travel.orange.com/en/buy-a-sim/offers/hungary/esim

[7] https://www.rogers.com/mobility/roaming#searchbar

[8] https://www.verizon.com/support/international-services-pricing/

[9] https://www.t-mobile.com/cell-phone-plans/international-roaming-plans/unlimited-calling-data-pass