Brunei – is one of the most famous countries in Southeast Asia tourism with magnificent Mosques and unique culture. However, international travel cannot avoid roaming charges, confusing many people.
This article will provide the most detailed information about roaming fees in Brunei and tips to help you save the most on mobile costs while still providing a seamless connection experience. Take a few minutes to thoroughly research the information before traveling, so that your adventurous journey to explore this beautiful country becomes memorable without worrying about uncontrollable bills.
Table of Contents
I. Understand Data Roaming in Brunei
Before arriving in Brunei, consider finding out in advance what roaming fees are and the associated fees to avoid incurring unforeseen costs. Let’s find out the most important information about roaming fees in Brunei below:
1. What are roaming fees?
A mobile data roaming fee is understood as an additional fee that users must pay when using mobile services such as calling, texting, using data for digital networks,… outside the coverage area of the mobile network originally registered carrier in your country.
This fee covers your home carrier’s costs when you don’t use services that aren’t in their network.
2. Things to know when roaming in Brunei
- Brunei has 3 major carriers: DST, Progresif and UNN. Each network operator has an international roaming service via roaming.
- Progresif and UNN apply roaming fees of approximately $0.15/MB when using roaming internationally. DST offers free international roaming for data once a package has been purchased.
- Domestically in Brunei, DST does not apply data roaming fees while Progresif is $0.11/MB and UNN is $0.07/MB.
Get more insights on Brunei SIM Cards Detailed Guides
II. Roaming Charges in Brunei
Now you understand the data roaming charges you may encounter when traveling to Brunei. So please follow the instructions below to assist you in handling and controlling roaming fees to avoid unwanted risks:
1. How to Check Roaming Charges Before Your Travel to Brunei
To avoid unpleasant surprises about mobile costs when traveling to Brunei, you should take the following steps to check roaming charges before arriving:
- Contact your mobile service provider: This is the easiest and most direct way for you to check roaming fee information for the mobile data plan you are using. Currently, most network operators have complete information right on their website or application, which you can also easily look up.
- Check roaming fees: You can refer to completely free online information sites for this method such as the official website of your service provider, some websites that summarize roaming fees, or on forums. travel on social networks. It’s important to take the time to research the details of roaming fees for each type of service: mobile data, voice calls, and SMS messages.
- Call customer service: If you still have questions or need further assistance, call your mobile carrier’s customer service department. They will provide you with detailed information about roaming charges and answer any questions you may have.
2. Roaming Charge in Brunei by Malaysia Mobile Operators
Below is an overview of approximate mobile prices for calling, texting, and data usage in Brunei from Malaysian mobile operators:
| Mobile Operator | Calls | Text | Data |
| CelcomDigi | $0.08/min | $0.13/SMS | $0.08 per MB |
| U Mobile | $1.88/min | $0.21/SMS | $7.51 per day |
| Unifi | 45.22/min | $0.21/SMS | $3.96 per day or 8.14 for 7 days |
As can be seen: CelcomDigi emerged as the most economical choice for most services, including voice calls, SMS messages, and mobile data. However, U Mobile and Unifi also have their advantages, such as U Mobile’s cheap daily mobile data plan and Unifi’s economical 7-day plan.
- Roaming fees may change over time, the above comparison table is for reference only (as of April 2024)
- Some mobile service providers may offer separate roaming plans or special deals for international travelers.
- Keep your payment receipt to keep track of your mobile spending while in Brunei.
III. Best Ways to Avoid Roaming Charges in Brunei
Brunei is a wonderful country, and it’s essential to stay connected while exploring there. However, unexpected roaming charges can negatively impact your amazing trip to Brunei. Here are several ways to avoid them, with the most convenient option at the forefront:
1. Buy an eSIM from esimbrunei.com
A top recommendation you should make for international travel to Brunei is to buy an eSIM at esimbrunei.com which is the leading provider of eSIM data plans in Brunei that offers data plans. eSIM is compatible with most smartphones today.
Benefits of getting an eSIM from esimbrunei.com:
- Purchase online, then install with a snap by scanning the QR code through email, this digital SIM loads instantly – don’t need to wait for a physical card.
- eSIMs from esimbrunei.com offer cheap data-only plans without roaming charges,
- Our eSIMs are compatible with 200+ smartphones, compatibility checklist and setup instructions reassure travelers.
- No roaming fees or expensive pay-as-you-go daily limits. Stream music or check maps without bill shock. Additional data can be topped up easily as needed.
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2. Buy a Local Brunei SIM Card
Another effective way to avoid roaming costs is to buy a local SIM card in Brunei. With a local SIM card, you can make calls, text, and use mobile data at carrier list rates like other locals. If unfortunately, your phone is not compatible with eSIM, this is the best way to go if you plan to stay in Brunei for a long time.
You can buy a SIM card at the airport or go to a carrier store during your stay, present your passport, or the necessary receipts for purchase.
3. Enable Wi-Fi Calling
Using a free Wi-Fi network is a way to surf the web for maximum data savings while in Brunei. Cafes, hotels, restaurants, malls, and some of the main attractions offer free Wi-Fi access. You can also take advantage of these public Wi-Fi sources and remember to turn off data to reduce data usage, for connection needs when WiFi is not available.
IV. FAQs about Data Roaming in BruneiWhy do I have to pay roaming fees when traveling to Brunei?
Why do I have to pay roaming fees when traveling to Brunei?
When you travel to Brunei, your mobile phone will connect to Brunei’s mobile network instead of your mobile network at home. Mobile carriers in Brunei charge other mobile carriers to use their networks, and these charges are passed on to you as roaming charges.
Can I buy multiple eSIMs for one device?
Yes, you can purchase multiple eSIMs for one device and switch between eSIMs easily.
Is eSIM secure?
An eSIM is considered more secure than a real SIM. All information is encrypted and stored on your device, not as a physical SIM card. In addition, when purchasing an eSIM from esimbrunei.com, you will be guided to install and use it safely.
How do I check the remaining space on my eSIM?
To check how much space you have left on your eSIM, please go to your device’s mobile network settings. Most smartphones now support checking the remaining capacity. If you need to check in more detail, you can also contact the operator’s hotline directly.
V. Conclusion
By understanding roaming charges, learning about your mobile provider’s rates, and exploring options such as eSIM, local SIM card, and WiFi calling, you can enjoy your trip to Brunei while keeping your refunds under control and minimizing sky-high roaming costs.
