EV Charging Roaming Tips to Save Money While Driving Across Europe

Planning a summer road trip across Europe in your electric car? Whether you’re heading to the beaches of Spain, the vineyards of France, or the mountains of Austria, one thing is essential: knowing how EV charging roaming Europe works.

In this guide, we’ll explain what it is, how to prepare for your trip, and how to avoid expensive charging fees while enjoying the freedom of the open road. We’ll also show how KotiCharge helps you start your trip fully charged and stress-free.

What Is EV Charging Roaming Europe?

EV charging roaming means you can use your regular charging app or card at charging stations from different companies—even in other countries.

It works like mobile phone roaming. Your charging provider (called an MSP—Mobility Service Provider) has agreements with many CPOs (Charge Point Operators) across Europe. So when you plug in somewhere new, the two companies connect in the background, and you still get billed through your usual provider.

Thanks to EV charging roaming Europe, you don’t need to:

• Download new apps in every country

• Sign up for multiple accounts

• Worry about payment methods or language barriers

This system is made possible by roaming platforms like Hubject, which connect hundreds of networks. It’s also being supported by new EU laws like the Alternative Fuels Infrastructure Regulation (AFIR), which require public chargers to support card payments and price transparency across Europe.

Road Trip Checklist: Be Ready for EV Charging Roaming Europe

Before you hit the road, make sure you’re prepared:

1. Check your app
   Make sure your MSP app supports roaming. Shell Recharge, Chargemap, and Plugsurfing are great options with wide coverage.

2. Download a backup app
   Having a second app helps if a charger doesn’t accept your main one.

3. Bring the right cable
   Most chargers use CCS2 in Europe, but a Type 2 cable may still be needed in some areas.

4. Use real-time maps
   PlugShare or Chargemap will show you if a charger is available, working, or busy.

5. Charge at home with KotiCharge
   If you live in a building with KotiCharge, use the app to charge overnight when electricity is cheapest. It’s the perfect way to leave home with a full battery and save money before your trip even starts.

What to Look Out for When Roaming

Prices can vary a lot when using EV charging roaming Europe. Here’s how to avoid surprise fees:

1. Always check the tariff before you plug in

Before starting any charging session, take a moment to review the pricing in your app. Some chargers bill per kilowatt-hour (kWh), while others charge by the minute—especially at slower AC chargers. Others may combine both, or include a flat connection fee. A quick check helps you avoid overpaying for energy, especially in countries where pricing structures differ widely.

2. Be aware of session and idle fees

Many public chargers apply a session fee (often €0.50 to €1.00) just to initiate a charge, regardless of how much energy you use. Additionally, if your car remains plugged in after reaching 100% charge, idle fees can start accumulating—sometimes €0.10 or more per minute. This adds up quickly, especially at busy stations. To avoid this, monitor your session through the app and unplug promptly once charging is complete.

3. Charge during off-peak hours when possible

Some networks in Europe offer dynamic pricing, which means charging is cheaper during off-peak times—typically late at night or early morning. Charging during these windows can result in significant savings, especially in countries like the Netherlands, Sweden, or Germany where spot pricing is common. If your schedule allows, plan your charging stops accordingly.

4. Avoid charging only at high-cost locations

Motorway rest stops and remote charging stations often have higher tariffs due to added infrastructure and convenience. While sometimes necessary, they shouldn’t be your first choice. When possible, charge in urban areas, retail parking lots, or hotel locations where the cost per kWh tends to be lower—and you can combine it with other activities like shopping or dining.

5. Make sure your phone data works across borders

Many roaming-enabled chargers require your phone to connect to the internet to activate a session via app or QR code. If your mobile plan has limited or no EU roaming, or if you’re using a local SIM, you might face issues. Consider setting up an EU eSIM or verifying that your plan includes free or affordable roaming across EU countries. A reliable data connection is essential for smooth charging on the go.

How KotiCharge Helps You Start Smart

KotiCharge is designed for residents in apartment buildings and housing communities. It helps you:

• Charge at the cheapest time
  Use the smart timer to charge when electricity is lowest, often at night.

• Track all your sessions
  Download your charging history to keep things organised.

• Start your road trip with a full, low-cost battery
  Avoid expensive first stops by filling up the night before using KotiCharge.

Learn more in our Smart Charging at Home Guide.

EU Rules Making EV Charging Roaming Europe Easier

The AFIR Regulation (EU 2023/1804) is helping make EV charging better across the EU by requiring:

• Card or contactless payment options at new chargers

• Clear pricing in €/kWh

• Better access to public data, so apps show real-time charger status

With these rules, EV charging roaming Europe will keep improving—just in time for your next road trip.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re driving to the beach, the mountains, or a new country altogether, EV charging roaming Europe gives you the freedom to charge anywhere without stress.

Plan your route, prepare your apps, charge smart with KotiCharge, and you’re ready for a smooth electric adventure across Europe.