How to Disable an iPhone While on Vacation

By Randall Blackburn

Disable cellular and data services while traveling with your iPhone to avoid roaming charges.
i Justin Sullivan/Getty Images News/Getty Images

Disable the calling and data services on your iPhone while you're on vacation to save money on roaming charges. International roaming charges can mount up quickly when you're traveling abroad. Fortunately, you can disable the Data Roaming and Cellular Data features to stop your iPhone from checking your email and accessing the Internet when traveling. To disable only the iPhone’s ability to make and receive calls and text messages, place the device in Airplane Mode. Of course, you can always turn off your iPhone while on vacation to completely unplug and rejuvenate.

Step 1

Tap the “Settings” icon in the iPhone home screen to open the Settings app.

Step 2

Tap the“Cellular” option. The Cellular settings menu opens.

Step 3

Slide the “Cellular Data” toggle to the “Off” position.

Step 4

Slide the “Data Roaming” toggle to the “Off” position. Data services are now disabled.

Step 1

Press the “Home” button to return to the iPhone home screen.

Step 2

Tap the “Settings” icon in the home screen to launch the Settings app.

Step 3

Slide the “Airplane Mode” toggle switch to the “On” position. Airplane mode is enabled.

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