There are various reason why your handset doesn't appear to be working when you are abroad.
The biggest and most common reason why a handset stops working when you are abroad is your spend cap. A spend cap lets you limit your spending on things not included in your monthly plan. This includes calls, texts and data usage whilst roaming.
Depending on where you are roaming and what network you are billed by, there is usually a cost associated with this which will then in turn trigger your spend cap causing your phone to stop working. .
Roaming on o2 and EE in Europe is still free of charge however Vodafone do charge. Typically it is £2 per day however depending on if you are billed by Ice comms, the prices may vary depending on the tariff.
You will need to call us on 0333 202 5000 or email support on [email protected] and request that an agent can remove your spend cap in order to get your handset working again. Please note that whilst we can accept your request over the phone, we are required to also have your confirmation of this via email so an agent will email you to confirm once again that you are happy to have your cap removed.
Another reason could be that the APN settings aren't correct since they differ depending on if the handset is an iPhone or a Samsung. If your settings are incorrect, your data will not work abroad. If you call or email us using the contact details above, an agent can get these amended for you.
The final alternative is, roaming may not be enabled on the handset, again this is another feature that support will be able to assist you with.
Please note, it is extremely important that you inform Ice comms at least 48 hours before you travel so an agent can correctly inform you of any prices, bolt on's, out of bundle charges, remove any spend caps etc so as not to disrupt your holiday or worse, leave you at risk of receiving a potentially huge bill upon your return.