International Travel: Roaming In Brunei, Do I Need It?

If you're a Globe user, you can use your prepaid or postpaid SIM card in Brunei. To activate Globe Roaming, text GROAM ON to 2884 at least 24 hours before your flight. You will need a minimum balance of PHP100 to enable activation and to keep the service working. Alternatively, you can use the GlobeOne app to subscribe to roaming packages.

Roaming charges in Brunei

When travelling to Brunei, it's important to understand the roaming charges you may encounter to avoid any unwanted surprises. Here is some information to help you prepare for your trip and stay connected while in the country.

Understanding Roaming Fees in Brunei

A mobile data roaming fee is an additional charge incurred when using mobile services such as calls, texts, or data outside of your home network's coverage area. Brunei has three major carriers: DST, Progresif, and UNN. Each of these network operators offers international roaming services.

Roaming Charges by Carriers

• DST: DST does not charge data roaming fees within Brunei. They also offer free international roaming for data once a package is purchased.
• Progresif: Charges $0.11/MB for domestic data roaming in Brunei and approximately $0.15/MB for international roaming.
• UNN: Charges $0.07/MB for domestic data roaming in Brunei and approximately $0.15/MB for international roaming.

Tips to Control Roaming Fees

To avoid unexpected roaming charges, here are some recommendations:

• Contact Your Provider: Get in touch with your mobile service provider to understand their roaming fee structure and any available plans or deals for international travellers.
• Check Roaming Fees: Research the roaming charges for your specific type of service (data, calls, SMS) using online resources, including your provider's website, forums, or travel websites.
• Buy an eSIM: Consider purchasing an eSIM from a local provider like esimbrunei.com, which offers cheap data-only plans without roaming charges and is compatible with many smartphones.
• Local SIM Card: If you plan to stay in Brunei for an extended period, buying a local SIM card can be a cost-effective option, allowing you to pay local rates for calls, texts, and data.
• Wi-Fi Calling: Utilise free Wi-Fi networks whenever possible to minimise data usage. Many cafes, hotels, restaurants, malls, and attractions in Brunei offer free Wi-Fi access.

Roaming Charges for Malaysian Travellers

If you are travelling to Brunei from Malaysia, here is an overview of approximate mobile charges for calling, texting, and data usage:

• CelcomDigi: Offers economical rates for voice calls, SMS messages, and mobile data.
• U Mobile: Provides a cheap daily mobile data plan.
• Unifi: Features an affordable 7-day plan.

Please note that these rates may change over time, and it is always recommended to check with your service provider for the most up-to-date information.

How to check roaming charges before travelling to Brunei

If you are a Globe Prepaid customer, you can use your Globe services when travelling to Brunei. To check if the roaming service is active in Brunei, you can text 'GLIST' to 2884. You will be charged PHP 2.50 for this text message.

To avoid surprises about mobile costs when travelling to Brunei, you can take the following steps to check roaming charges before your trip:

• Contact your mobile service provider: This is the most direct way to check roaming fee information for your mobile data plan. Most network operators have complete information on their website or application.
• Check roaming fees: Refer to free online information sites such as the official website of your service provider, websites that summarise roaming fees, or forums on travel social networks. Research the details of roaming fees for each type of service (mobile data, voice calls, SMS messages).
• Call customer service: If you have questions or need further assistance, call your mobile carrier's customer service department. They will provide detailed information about roaming charges and answer any questions.

Best ways to avoid roaming charges in Brunei

Brunei is a wonderful country to visit, but staying connected while travelling can be challenging. Unexpected roaming charges can quickly add up and negatively impact your trip. Here are some ways to avoid roaming charges, with the most convenient options at the forefront:

Buy an eSIM from esimbrunei.com

One of the best recommendations for international travel to Brunei is to purchase an eSIM from esimbrunei.com, the leading provider of eSIM data plans in the country. eSIMs are compatible with most smartphones and offer several benefits:

• Easy purchase and installation: Buy online and install instantly by scanning a QR code via email. No need to wait for a physical card.
• Affordable data-only plans: eSIMs from esimbrunei.com offer cheap data-only plans with no roaming charges.
• Wide compatibility: eSIMs are compatible with over 200 smartphones, and setup instructions are provided for added convenience.
• No roaming fees: Stream music or use maps without worrying about bill shock. Additional data can be easily topped up as needed.

Buy a Local Brunei SIM Card

Another effective way to avoid roaming costs is to purchase a local SIM card in Brunei. With a local SIM, you can make calls, send texts, and use mobile data at local rates. If your phone is not compatible with eSIM, this is an excellent option, especially if you plan to stay in Brunei for an extended period.

You can buy a SIM card at the airport or visit a carrier store during your stay. Remember to bring your passport or any necessary documents for the purchase.

Enable Wi-Fi Calling

Take advantage of free Wi-Fi networks available in cafes, hotels, restaurants, malls, and some tourist attractions in Brunei. Using Wi-Fi is an excellent way to surf the web and save on data charges. Remember to turn off your data connection when connected to Wi-Fi to reduce data usage.

Contact Your Mobile Service Provider

Before your trip, contact your mobile service provider to understand their roaming fee structure and any available plans. Most network operators provide detailed information on their websites or applications. Additionally, check roaming fees through free online sources, such as official provider websites, forums, or travel social networks. It's important to research the charges for each type of service, including mobile data, voice calls, and SMS messages.

Turn Off Roaming or Remove Your SIM

If you don't need constant connectivity, consider turning off roaming on your device settings or even removing your SIM card before entering Brunei. This will prevent any unexpected charges from "leaked connections" when your phone connects to an overseas network.

Switch to a Different Provider

If you frequently travel to Brunei and are unhappy with the roaming charges from your current provider, consider switching to an alternative like Progresif or Easi. These providers may offer more competitive rates and better services for travellers.

By following these tips and understanding your options, you can stay connected in Brunei while minimising roaming charges, ensuring a memorable trip without the worry of unexpected bills.

How to activate Globe roaming when abroad

If you're a Globe Prepaid or TM customer, you can use your SIM card abroad in Brunei. There's no need to request manual activation for roaming; when you arrive in the country, simply turn on your phone to receive a roaming signal and connect to the partner network.

To check if the service is active in Brunei, text GLIST to 2884. You will be charged P 2.50 for this text message.

If you want to activate roaming before you travel, you can subscribe to a promo the day before your trip. You can also subscribe to data roaming offers via the GlobeOne app. This will enable you to make or receive calls or texts through apps like WhatsApp, Facebook Messenger, and Instagram.

• Go to Settings.
• Find Cellular or Mobile Data.
• Click on Network Selection.
• Turn off the option for automatically scanning for other available networks nearby.

How to check if Globe roaming is active in your destination country

If you are a Globe Prepaid customer, you will be able to use your Globe services when travelling abroad. To check if Globe roaming is active in your destination country, you can text GLIST and send it to 2884. You will be charged P2.50 for this text message.

If your destination country is covered, you don't need to request manual roaming activation. Upon arrival, simply turn on your phone to receive a roaming signal and automatically connect to the Globe partner network. There is no maintaining balance requirement to activate roaming.

You can check your remaining balance by dialling *143# on your Globe mobile phone and pressing send or call. Balance inquiries are free of charge and can be done 12 times per day.

Frequently asked questions