Here and there, the smartphone is one of the most important companions on holiday as a navigation device, communication center, photo and video camera, local tourist guide and games console, because it can also become a troubleshooter in difficult moments.

Because in addition to accessing social media to stay in touch with friends and relatives, the most important aspect of the smartphone is the ability to make an emergency call. 

The most reliable companion in the open country: the European emergency number 112

In Austria, all three-digit emergency numbers, including those of the two major automobile clubs, are free. The European emergency number 112 should also be saved for a holiday in Austria. Because this number can be used to make an emergency call even if the home network – for example in uninhabited alpine areas – cannot be reached, but at least some network is within range. In addition, calls to the European emergency number 112 are prioritized by the mobile networks, which means that a 112 emergency call is given priority over all other connections. The European emergency call 112 can also be made without a contract or credit.

For holidays abroad: always dial 112 in an emergency

The various emergency numbers are different abroad. That is why the European emergency number 112 is the international emergency number. If you dial 112 anywhere in Europe (always without an area code), the system automatically connects you to the nearest emergency call center. In Austria these are the control centers of the police.

Save international dialing codes

Stored phone numbers only work abroad in the international format: for example, 06(…..) becomes +436(…..). It is therefore advisable to check at least the most important contacts and correct them if necessary.

EU roaming “Roam like at home” – data usage like at home 

In other EU countries, the "Roam like at Home" regulation applies to everyone who does not use their smartphone or mobile phone primarily abroad. This means that you can use your cell phone or smartphone at the same rates as in Austria. But be careful: This often tempts you to use services such as your favorite radio or TV station via app permanently, which can lead to the included data volume being used up much faster than at home. In non-EU countries, such as Switzerland or Great Britain, the roaming regulations vary depending on the operator. It's a good idea to check the network operator's website before you travel.

Be careful with apps and with the voice mailbox

In non-EU countries in particular, it is advisable to disable apps that allow background updates to go unnoticed. The mobile box should also be deactivated for the duration of your stay, because even if you don't listen to it, there is a charge for forwarding the voice message.

Automatic cost brake for data roaming

However, unpleasant surprises when using data services are a thing of the past. Because as soon as an invoice amount of EUR 60 is due for use, you will be informed via SMS. Exceeding this amount is only possible after confirmation.

Activate screen lock / hotline no. of the network operator separately (!).

If the smartphone is lost or stolen, the operator hotline should be called as soon as possible to block the SIM card. The number of the network operator hotline should be noted separately, because storing it in the mobile phone is of course pointless in this case. To prevent misuse up to locking the SIM card, at least the screen lock must be activated to prevent unauthorized use.