21-04-2026 12:47 AM
Hi All,
I’m on holiday in the states and have no data, assume my contract doesn’t include roaming/international use. Clearly, would have been easier to resolve before I left.
I’ve researched online but none of the options seem to work so would appreciate some help please. Things I’ve tried:
- Call 150 won’t connect
- Call +44 800 079 8586 won’t connect
- Downloaded app but link products isn’t working on app or website so can’t view my mobile profile to add a bolton/similar.
What should I try next please? Email would be best but appears no email or live chat option available.
Thanks.
Solved! See the answer below or view the solution in context.
23-04-2026 11:20 AM
Thanks for confirming these details for us, @EEHunter
It definitely sounds like roaming isn't enabled on your account at our end; this is completely separate to enabling roaming in the handset settings.
Usually we recommend activating this by text prior to travel, so the only option to do it whilst you're away would be to give our team a call.
If there's anyone with you that has a working phone you can reach us from anywhere in the world on +44 7953 966 250 and our team can get your roaming switched on right away.
Peter
21-04-2026 08:07 AM
@EEHunter : Can you make calls & texts?
Often just rebooting the phone is the simple remedy. Also try selecting a network manually rather than auto.
Did you receive a Welcome text upon arrival?
Are you on contract or PAYG? Had you used that SIM for making calls or texts in UK before leaving to go abroad?
If you are on contract, did you activate roaming on your EE a/c before leaving UK by texting ROAMING to 150? Having a roaming billing add-on doesn't of itself activate roaming on your a/c. Having roaming activated on your EE a/c, not just on your device, is crucial to using your contract SIM abroad.
Otherwise if you are on contract you need to call CS to get your roaming activated. Try calling CS on the Freephone no. in my sig. using a web-calling app over WiFi.
21-04-2026 08:13 AM
Also please enable data roaming in mobile settings. Try choosing different network by manual network search.
23-04-2026 06:21 AM
Hi XRaySpeX,
Thanks for the reply, apologies for the slow reply we’re on a roadtrip and wifi at accommodation stops is mixed.
- Reboot & Manual network select no change
- Mobile data and roaming are on
- Cannot call or text
- Did not receive welcome text
- No, didn’t contact 150 before leaving. That’s my issue, I didn’t consider whether i had international functionality until I was abroad. I’ve work mobiles only for over a decade so not had to think about it.
- Contract monthly. Not pay as you go. Cannot link product to add roaming abroad - says to try again or come back later.
- Have had this phone for 6 months no issues call or text in UK before holiday.
- Tried phoning EE CS, with no network connection nothing happens. Wifi calling is on. I will try again in the morning now i’ve rebooted.
Wish there was a way to solve online or via email/chat.
Thanks also to RKYadav. Welcome other ideas please.
EEHunter
23-04-2026 11:20 AM
Thanks for confirming these details for us, @EEHunter
It definitely sounds like roaming isn't enabled on your account at our end; this is completely separate to enabling roaming in the handset settings.
Usually we recommend activating this by text prior to travel, so the only option to do it whilst you're away would be to give our team a call.
If there's anyone with you that has a working phone you can reach us from anywhere in the world on +44 7953 966 250 and our team can get your roaming switched on right away.
Peter
23-04-2026 04:31 PM
Thank you guys, all sorted via customer services.
All the Best, EE Hunter
23-04-2026 04:49 PM
Thanks @EEHunter, I'm really glad to hear our team managed to help you get this sorted out.
Thanks for taking the time to come back and let us know, too!
Enjoy the rest of your trip,
Peter