Best roaming deals for summer 2026: Which UK mobile networks offer the best value abroad?

Check this list before you jet off this summer

Since the end of free EU roaming on many UK networks, travellers have been forced to navigate a confusing mix of daily charges, roaming passes and country exclusions, often leading to unexpected bills when they return home.

But Sky Mobile has just shaken up the market with a major expansion of its roaming offer, increasing the number of destinations covered by its Roaming Passport Plus service from 55 to 120 countries and territories.

The move means Sky customers can now use their UK data, calls and texts in destinations across Europe, the US, Australia and many other popular holiday hotspots for £2 a day, with no activation required.

While Sky isn't the cheapest option for travellers sticking exclusively to Europe, the simplicity of the offer combined with the sheer breadth of destinations now covered makes it one of the strongest roaming propositions currently available from a major UK provider.

Which UK mobile networks offer the best roaming deals?

For travellers heading to Spain, France, Portugal or Greece, budget operators including Smarty, Lebara and giffgaff can still offer the cheapest solution thanks to included EU roaming.

However, for anyone travelling further afield, Sky's newly expanded offer is arguably one of the most attractive on the market. Rather than forcing customers to work out whether their destination falls into a specific zone or requires a separate pass, Sky now covers 120 destinations under a simple £2-a-day structure.

That makes it particularly appealing for holidaymakers heading to long-haul destinations where roaming charges can quickly spiral.

The hidden phone habits costing Brits hundreds abroad

The renewed focus on roaming comes as new research from Sky Mobile reveals how everyday smartphone habits could be quietly draining holidaymakers' data overseas.

According to Sky Mobile's new Data Roaming Index, almost half (48%) of 25 to 34-year-olds have been hit by unexpected roaming charges while travelling abroad.

The research found that online messaging and accidental WhatsApp downloads are among the biggest data drainers for travellers, with more than half of Brits admitting they have fallen foul of them while overseas.

Maps and navigation apps rank among the most common causes of unexpected data usage, while search engines and booking activities such as restaurants, tours and excursions also contribute significantly.

Worryingly, one in five Brits admit they have no idea which countries are included in their mobile allowance before travelling.

Sky says some seemingly minor activities can quickly add up. Forgetting to switch off background app notifications can result in charges of up to £20, while streaming a single film trailer abroad could cost as much as £120 without the right roaming package in place.

The findings highlight why roaming has become one of the most important factors for consumers choosing a mobile provider ahead of the summer holiday season.

With Sky Mobile now offering access to 120 destinations for £2 a day and no set-up required, the company is positioning itself as one of the simplest and most comprehensive roaming options available to UK travellers.

For consumers, the message is straightforward: before you pack your suitcase, check exactly what your network includes abroad — because a few minutes of scrolling, streaming or navigation could end up costing far more than your holiday cocktail.