The European Commission is planning to abolish roaming charges across the EU by next summer.

The EC has voted to fast-track major reforms to the telecommunications market, with aim of merging all 27 EU countries into one telecomms market.

This was expected to happen by next year, but it's been brought forward by the Commissioner responsible for the digital agenda.

The data roaming charge will be reduced from 70c to 45c on July 1st. In addition to that, operators now have to warn you when you reach 80% of your data allowance, which is capped at €50.

Caroline Curneen of the European Consumer Centre Ireland spoke to Newstalk's Breakfast about the move:

The Consumer Centre warns that having a bundle doesn't protect you from roaming charges - most packages make their bundle limits applicable only domestically, with some providers who allow you to add on for use abroad, for a certain fee.

The centre's top tip is to make sure that your data roaming is switched off on your smart phone before travelling - and to try to use Wifi as much as possible while abroad.