Using iMessage only via wifi when in the USA

[RJB]

Sorry if this is an obviously stupid question.

I have the travel bolt on, but don’t intend to use it while in the USA.   If I have turned off data roaming but am merely using my device via wifi, will I still be able to use Apple iMessage without incurring a charge and triggering the daily travel bolt on charge?  In previous years I obviously used TuGo in this way with no charge and no problems.

Thanks.

[Glory1 · Accepted solution]

Morning @RJB

No, your question is not stupid. And yes if you use Apple iMessage over wifi only you won't incur any charges.

However, do check you have the correct idata bolt on and that your APN is set to idata.o2.co.uk

Have a great trip and welcome to the forum 

[RJB]

Thanks so much @Glory1.   Much appreciated.

[Bambino]

@RJB If you plan to only use your phone via WiFi while in the US, the surest way to avoid any data or roaming charges is to take your sim out of your phone and put it somewhere safe where you won't misplace it.

[RJB]

Thanks, @Bambino.  I’ll probably do that, although keep it in my wallet in case of dire emergency.

[MI5]

Putting phone in airplane mode will do the same thing as removing the sim but without the risk of losing it.
You can still turn WiFi on whilst in airplane mode.

[Cleoriff]

Final piece of advice to add to everyone else's @RJB

Turn Voicemail OFF before you go dial 1750 and press send. Turn it back on when in UK 1760

Also check with customer service before you travel that you have NO roaming bars applied to your account

https://www.o2.co.uk/contactus

Have a great holiday.

[gmarkj]

Does turning the phone onto airplane mode stop the normal data burst when the phones is turned off/on @MI5?

[MI5]

Advisable not to turn off phone but not many do these days.

[RJB]

Thanks everyone. You’ve all been very helpful.