Data Roaming in Myanmar for Travelers 2024: Rates & How to Avoid it

Jessica Taylor

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Latest update: September 2024

Data roaming in Myanmar can be chosen by travelers as a way to stay in touch. However, whether this is the only way to access the Internet in Myanmar or which is the best option to keep in touch with families back home with affordable prices.

Below we will answer all the questions above and give you all information you need about phone roaming in Myanmar. 

I. Phone Roaming in Myanmar- Quick Facts for Tourists

Phone roaming in Myanmar has some particular features that travelers should read before departure: 

• Network Operators: Myanmar has several network operators to choose from, including MPT, Telenor Myanmar, and Ooredoo Myanmar.

• Coverage: In most major cities and popular tourist spots, you’ll enjoy good network coverage. However, keep in mind that in remote or rural areas, the signal strength might be weaker or even absent.

• Mobile Data: Myanmar has made significant improvements in its mobile data infrastructure. You can expect 3G and 4G services in urban areas.

II. Understand about Roaming in Myanmar – How It Works

When you use your phone with your regular SIM card in Myanmar, that’s called international roaming. You’ll be charged a per- minute rate for calls unless you have an Myanmar SIM card that offers free roaming in this country.

Now, when you roam with a regular SIM card, you’re actually being charged by two mobile network operators. That’s why using your phone in Myanmar can get quite expensive. 

It’s important to be aware of data roaming too. If you forget to switch it off, your phone might automatically connect to the internet, which can result in a exorbitant bill when you get back home.

III. Is the Roaming Rate in Myanmar Expensive?

Yes. Roaming charges in Myanmar can be considered expensive compared to domestic rates. There are two common methods for tourists to access roaming services in Myanmar.

• The first method is to use their own mobile phone number from their home country and activate roaming services provided by their operator. 
• The second method is to purchase a local SIM card in Myanmar.

In Myanmar, the typical types of roaming services include voice calls, SMS (text messages), and data usage.

Please note that the prices mentioned above are subject to change and may vary depending on the operator and specific roaming packages available.

IV. How to Activate Roaming Service for Myanmar in Your Cell Phone?

To activate roaming services, you only need to follow 4 simple steps:

Step 1: Choose your preferred service provider

First, you’ll need to decide on your service provider. You have two options: you can either stick with your home mobile plan or opt for a local cellular carrier. If you decide to keep your home plan, here’s what you can expect from some popular network carriers:

• Three: $5 USD/day 
• Vodafone: $6 USD/day 
• Rogers: $15 USD/10 MB
• T-Mobile: $70 USD for 5 days

If you choose a local mobile carrier and activate their roaming service, the recommended local providers for roaming services in Myanmar are Telenor or Ooredoo.

Step 2: Activate the roaming function for your service provider

Each mobile network carrier has its own process for activating roaming service. It’s best to refer to the official website of your chosen operator for detailed instructions. For example, if you’re using Vodafone, you can download the My Vodafone app, select the “International roaming” option, choose your destination country, and you’re good to go!

Step 3: Purchase a mobile package with roaming

Why is a roaming package important? Well, regular roaming rates can be quite expensive. Buying a roaming package ensures that you won’t break the bank with roaming charges.

► Recommendation: It’s recommended to buy a roaming package one day before your departure, as the package often starts right after purchase. Choose the package that suits your needs and budget. For example, if you use a lot of data, consider an unlimited package. If you only need data occasionally, a package with a limited data volume will suffice.

Step 4: Enable roaming on your phone

For Android users, go to Settings, tap on “Data roaming,” and turn on “International Roaming.” iPhone users can go to Settings, select Cellular, and tap on “Data roaming.”

By following these steps, you’ll be able to activate and enjoy roaming services without any hassle. Safe travels!

V. How to Avoid Roaming Charges When Traveling to Myanmar. 

To save on mobile roaming in Myanmar, you can follow some useful tips below: 

• Consider alternative solutions: If your current provider has high roaming charges, you may want to switch to a cheaper provider or buy a new SIM card specifically for your trip to Myanmar. 

• Be aware of mobile bill limits: Check if your contract has a mobile bill limit. If you approach the limit, your services may stop working, and additional charges can accumulate.

• Manage background data: Some apps may consume data in the background even when you’re not actively using your phone. Review your app settings and ensure that only essential apps have access to mobile data.

• Prepare from home: Before you leave for Myanmar, plan your routes, download maps, and important information to your phone. Use apps like Pocket to save webpages for offline reading. 

VI. Myanmar eSIM – Alternative to Data Roaming in Myanmar to Get Internet

If you’re looking for an alternative to expensive data roaming in Myanmar, consider using a Myanmar eSIM to access the internet. 

An eSIM, or embedded SIM, is a virtual SIM card that is built into compatible devices, eliminating the need for a physical SIM card.

By obtaining a Myanmar eSIM, you can enjoy several benefits while staying connected in the country: 

• Convenience: With an eSIM, there’s no need to switch physical SIM cards or worry about losing or damaging them. 

• Cost-Effective: You can explore various eSIM providers in Myanmar to find competitive pricing and data packages that suit your needs.

• Flexibility: An Myanmar eSIM allows you to switch between different network providers and data plans easily. 

•  Easy Activation: You can often do it directly through your device’s settings or by scanning a QR code provided by the eSIM provider.

VII. How to Turn Off Data Roaming When Traveling in Myanmar?

To turn off data roaming when traveling in Myanmar, follow these easy steps:

1. Android Devices:

• Open the Settings app on your Android device.
• Look for the option that says “Network & internet” or “Connections” and tap on it.
• Find and select “Mobile networks” or “Data usage.”
• Look for a menu called “Roaming” or “Roaming options.”
• Switch off the option that says “Data roaming.”

2. iOS Devices (iPhone or iPad):

• Go to the Settings app on your iOS device.
• Look for the option that says “Cellular” or “Mobile Data” and tap on it.
• Find a menu called “Roaming.”
• Turn off the option that says “Data Roaming.”

VIII. FAQs. 

IX. Conclusion. 

In conclusion, when it comes to data roaming in Myanmar, it’s important to be mindful of the costs and manage your data usage wisely. To avoid extra charges, remember to turn off data roaming on your device and use Wi-Fi whenever you can. Hope you have the best time in Myanmar.