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The best international sim cards for travel | an in-depth data plan buyer’s guide for traveling abroad.

How to find the best international SIM Card and eSIM data plan.

phones and technology

Ensuring your phone has high-speed data when you travel internationally is a confusing and frustrating process for many travelers—in fact, it’s one of the most-asked questions I get from readers. That’s why I wanted to help remove the mystery around international data plans by creating this guide to the best international SIM cards.

Traveling to Europe? Check The Savvy Backpacker’s Guide To Smartphones, SIM Cards, and Data Plans in Europe , my guide to How To Buy A SIM Card For Europe , and my guide to the best eSIM Data Plans For Europe .

International SIM Cards vs Single-Country/Local SIM Cards vs Global SIM Cards

Choosing the best international SIM card can be confusing because there are a ton of options and each has its own positives and negatives. So let’s start by defining the overall SIM card categories:

• International SIM cards can often be purchased before your trip so they can be mailed to you before departure or you can download the eSIM if your phone is compatible.
• International SIM Cards will be slightly more expensive than local SIM cards but they’re more convenient—especially if you’re using an eSIM.
• Buying a Local SIM is often the most affordable option but you have the added hassle of having to hunt down a SIM Card after you arrive, dealing with language barriers, and you may need to register the SIM before activation (which may require you to submit your passport and provide a local address)
• NOTE: By EU law, any SIM card bought in the EU will work in any other EU country with no extra charges.
• Global SIM cards are notoriously bad . They’re often run by faceless companies with no customer support and they seem to always have connection issues—just do a search on Amazon and you’ll see a ton of negative feedback. You also typically pay way more and get way less data.
• However, I am a fan of the Orange Holiday World SIM card since it’s owned by Orange—which is one of the largest mobile providers in the world but data is limited in some countries.

E-SIM Data Plans vs (Physical) SIM Card Data Plans

Up until a few years ago, you had to physically remove the plastic SIM card from your phone and install a new SIM card if you wanted to connect to a new mobile provider.

However, many modern phones now let you download a digital eSIM to your phone so you no longer have to deal with physically removing any SIM cards. eSIMs are way more convenient because you don’t have to track down a SIM card and you can often install multiple eSIM cards on your phone (in addition to your physical SIM) so you can have multiple plans on a single phone.

Not all data providers currently offer eSIM data plans so you might have limited plan options—but I imagine this will become the standard over the next few years.

What To Look For In An International SIM Card

Are you still confused about international SIM cards? Don’t worry.

Here are some common things to keep in mind when researching and evaluating all the various international data plan options.

Some SIM Card Plans Are Data Only

Every SIM data plan has different terms when it comes to calls and texts. Many are data only—i.e. no calls or texts. Or some come with local calls and texts but don’t let you make international calls or texts. And others let you make worldwide texts and calls.

Data-only plans tend to be the cheapest while plans that offer worldwide calls/texts are the most expensive.

NOTE: Apple iMessage is sent via data so they’ll work with data-only plans (assuming you’re sending an iMessages to other Apple users). You can also use apps like WhatsApp via data so data-only is typically sufficient.

Not All SIM Data Plans Allow Data Tethering

Data-tethering (i.e. using your phone as a hotspot for other devices like your computer, etc.) isn’t allowed on all data plans so keep that in mind when choosing a data plan.

Global SIM Cards Offer Different Data Limits For Different Countries

Global SIM cards often group countries into different “zones” and each zone will have different data allowances.

For example, “zone one” countries might give you 10GB of data, but “zone two” counties could only give you 5GB of data, and then “zone three” countries might only give you 500MB of data. Check the plan details before buying.

Check The International SIM Card Plan’s Validity Period

Most international SIM cards are valid anywhere from seven to 30 days once you activate your card.

This is something you’ll obviously want to pay attention to since you don’t want your plan to expire before your trip ends. Some plans will let you “top-up” your plan so you can add extra time without having to buy another SIM card, but you’re often only allowed one or two “top-ups” before needing to buy another plan.

Your Phone Must Be Unlocked

Some phones are “carrier locked”—i.e. they’re digitally programmed to only work on your mobile provider’s network. This means it won’t work if you install another network’s SIM card until it’s “unlocked.”

Most mobile providers will unlock your phone if you request it so inquire before leaving as it might require a visit to the store or a few emails/phone calls with tech support.

Best International SIM Cards and eSIM Cards by Region

There isn’t a single “best” international SIM card for everywhere in the world but each region has some good options so that’s why I’ve broken this section down by region.

Orange Holiday World (Great SIM Card For Most Countries In The World)

The Orange Holiday World is a very popular choice for world travelers because it covers just about everywhere in the world and it’s backed by Orange—most “world” SIM cards are backed by no-name companies.

The main downside is that the data plan only lasts for 14 days so it’s not ideal for longer trips but you can top up the card one time for €29 to get another 14 days of service with an additional 10GB of data.

• PRICE:  $50
• DATA:  10GB
• INCLUDES TEXTS OR CALLS?:  NO
• USED AS A MOBILE HOTSPOT?:  Yes
• CREDIT VALID FOR:  14 Days

The Orange Holiday World plan includes 10GB of 4G/LTE data in many countries but there are a few “zones” that have a lower data limit.

Zone 1 (10GB data included) Europe:  Andorra, Azores, Aland islands, Austria, Balearic islands, Belgium, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Bulgaria, Canary Islands, Corfu, Crete, Croatia, Cyprus, Cyclades islands, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Faroe Islands, Finland, France mainland, Germany, Gibraltar, Greece, Guernsey, Hungary, Ireland, Iceland, Italy, Jersey, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Madeira, Malta, Isle of Man, Norway, Netherlands, Poland, Portugal, Rhodes, Romania, Spain, United Kingdom, San Marino, Sardinia, Serbia, Sicily, Slovakia, Slovenia, Switzerland, Sweden, Ukraine, Vatican

Other countries:  Algeria, Armenia, Australia, Saudi Arabia, Benin, Botswana, Brazil, Burkina Faso, Canada, Cameroon, Chad, Chile, China, Congo, Egypt, Gabon, Ghana, Guinea Bissau, Guinea Conakry, Hong Kong, India, Indonesia, Israel, Ivory Coast, Japan, Jordan, Kenya, Korea (south), Kuwait, Liberia, Macao, Madagascar, Malaysia, Mali, Mauritius, Mexico, Moldova, Montenegro, Morocco, Mozambique, Niger, Nigeria, New Zealand, Uganda, Peru, Qatar, Central African Republic, Democratic Republic of Congo, Russia, Senegal, Sierra Leone, Singapore, South Africa, Taiwan, Tanzania, Thailand, Tunisia, Turkey, UAE, USA, Vietnam

Zone 2 (5GB data included) Albania, Argentina, Bahrain, Colombia, Costa Rica, Ecuador, El Salvador, French Polynesia, Guatemala, Honduras, Iraq, Nicaragua, Oman, Panama, Dominican Republic, Uruguay

Zone 3 (1GB data included) Afghanistan, Belarus, Cambodia, Cape Verde, Equatorial Guinea, Kazakhstan, Pakistan, Paraguay, Philippines, Sri Lanka, St Vincent and the Grenadines, Togo, Venezuela

Zone 4 (50MB data included) Rest of the world

HOLAFLY ESIM (Unlimted Data eSIM Plans)

Holafly  is a new data-only eSIM provider that I recently used in Italy—the service was great and I got very fast data speeds (read my  Holafly eSIM Review  to learn more). They sell both country-specific and regional data plans. Unlike other companies, Holafly’s plans give you unlimited data and their plans run from 5 to 90 days (they will throttle your data if you use excessive data).

• 5 Days: $19
• 10 Days: $34
• 15 Days: $47
• 20 Days: $54
• 30 Days: $64
• 60 Days: $84
• 90 Days: $99
• Service Speed:  5G/4G/LTE
• Calls:  None
• Texts/SMS:  None
• Tethering:  No

Orange Holiday Europe eSIM and Physical SIM (Two Great Options For Europe)

The  Orange Holiday Europe SIM Card  and the Orange Holiday Europe eSIM Card are probably the best all-around options for European data because you get a good amount of data for a reasonable price—and it includes worldwide calls and text.

NOTE: Buy the Orange Holiday Europe eSIM Card if your phone is eSIM compatible since you’ll save on shipping fees and eSIMs are more convenient than physical SIM cards.

Additionally, Orange is one of the largest mobile companies in the world and they have great coverage throughout most of Europe.

Plan Specs:

• DATA:  30GB
• CALLS:  Unlimted in Europe and 1200 minutes worldwide
• TEXT:  Unlimted in Europe and 1000 worldwide
• CAN BE USED AS A MOBILE HOTSPOT?:  Yes

Orange Holiday Zen eSIM and Physical (Cheaper Option For Europe)

If you need less data and want to save a little money, check out the  Orange Holiday Zen SIM  and the Orange Holiday Zen eSIM —both are great all-around options for European data because you still get a solid amount of data for a reasonable price. Both plans also include worldwide calls and texts.

• Price:  $29.90
• Data:  15GB
• Service Speed:  4G/LTE
• Calls:  Unlimited within Europe and 30 min outside of Europe.
• Texts/SMS:  Unlimited within Europe and 200 outside of Europe.
• Credit validity:  14 day
• Data tethering allowed
• Usable on any device (phones, tablets, hotspots…)
• Cards come with a French phone number

AIS eSIM2FLY Global (eSIM that covers much of the world)

After the Orange Holiday World SIM, the AIS eSIM2FLY Global is another good option that doesn’t quite have as much data but it has the benefit of being an eSIM (so you don’t have to deal with shipping fees).

PRICE:  $49.90 DATA:  6GB INCLUDES TEXTS OR CALLS?:  NO CREDIT VALID FOR:  15 Days

Asia & Middle East

• Bangladesh, Bahrain 5G , Brunei, Cambodia, China (incl Tibet) 5G , Hong Kong 5G , India, Indonesia 5G , Israel 5G , Japan 5G , Jordan, Kuwait, Kyrgyzstan, Laos, Macau, Malaysia, Mongolia, Myanmar (Currently Blocked), Nepal, Oman 5G , Papua New Guinea, Pakistan, Philippines 5G , Qatar 5G , Saudi Arabia, Singapore 5G , South Korea 5G , Sri Lanka, Taiwan 5G , United Arab Emirates (UAE) – Dubai, Abu Dhabi 5G , Uzbekistan, Vietnam 5G
• Chad, Congo (Democratic Republic Of), Congo Republic, Egypt, Gabon, Ghana, Kenya, Madagascar Republic, Malawi, Nigeria, Reunion, South Africa, Tanzania, Tunisia, Uganda
• Åland Islands, Albania, Armenia, Austria 5G , Azerbaijan, Belgium 5G , Belarus, Bulgaria 5G , Croatia 5G , Cyprus (Northern), Czech Republic 5G , Denmark 5G , England 5G , Estonia, Faroe Islands, Finland 5G , France 5G , Georgia, Germany 5G , Greece, Hungary 5G , Iceland 5G , Ireland 5G , Italy 5G , Kazakhstan, Latvia 5G , Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg 5G , Malta 5G , Macedonia, Moldova, Montenegro, Netherlands 5G , Norway 5G , Poland 5G , Portugal 5G , Romania, Russia 5G , San Marino 5G , Serbia, Slovenia, Slovakia 5G , Spain 5G , Sweden 5G , Switzerland 5G , Turkey 5G , Ukraine, United Kingdom UK 5G , Vatican City 5G

North America

• Canada 5G , Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, Mexico  , Nicaragua, Panama, Puerto Rico, USA (incl Hawaii), United States Virgin Islands

South America

• Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Colombia , Ecuador, Paraguay, Peru, Uruguay

Oceania and Pacific Islands

• Australia 5G , Fiji, Guam, Nauru, New Zealand, Tonga

Travel SIM World (Multi-Country Coverage)

• Price:  $39.90
• Data:  6GB
• Credit validity: Lasts up to 15 days from the first point of activation.
• Calls/Texts: Does not support any calls or SMS. You are not able to receive any calls or SMS.

Countries Covered:

Albania, Australia, Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Cambodia, Canada, China, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Ghana, Greece, Hawaii, Hong Kong, Hungary, Iceland, India, Indonesia, Ireland, Italy, Japan, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxemburg, Macao, Malaysia, Malta, Myanmar, Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Philippines, Portugal, Qatar, Romania, Russia, Singapore, Slovakia, Slovenia, South Africa, South Korea, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Taiwan, Tibet, Turkey, Ukraine, United Kingdom, USA, Vietnam

AIS SIM2FLY SIM Card (Covers Much of Asia)

• Price $19.90
• Data: 6GB at maximum 4G/3G speed in Asia (wherever available)
• Credit validity: 10 days Credit Validity
• Coverage: 24 Asian countries (see below).

Australia, Bangladesh, Brunei, Cambodia, China (including Tibet), Hong Kong, India, Indonesia, Israel, Japan, Jordan, Kazakhstan, Laos, Macau, Malaysia, Myanmar, Nepal, Pakistan, Philippines, Qatar, Singapore, South Korea, Sri Lanka, Taiwan, Vietnam

China Unicom Asia 12 Days Data SIM (Multiple Asian Countries)

• Price: $22.90
• Credit validity: 12 days Credit Validity
• Coverage: 14 Asian countries (see below).

Cambodia, Hong Kong, Indonesia, Japan, Laos, Macau, Malaysia, Myanmar, Philippines, Singapore, South Korea, Taiwan, Thailand, Vietnam

MORE TIPS ON USING YOUR MOBILE PHONE INTERNATIONALLY

BUY A PORTABLE BATTERY CHARGER

Using apps like Google Maps and taking photos kills your phone battery so a portable battery is a must-have. I use  Anker PowerCore 10000  because it’s tiny and affordable but there are multiple options.

USING FREE WIFI WHILE TRAVELING ABROAD

I think people overestimate how easy it is to find free wifi in abroad. Yes, free wifi is becoming more prevalent throughout the world—however, it’s hard to rely exclusively on free wifi since it can be a pain to actually find a free network when you actually need it.

The best places to find free wifi are McDonald’s, Starbucks, cafés, coffee shops, and hostels/hotels — but getting connected is rarely super convenient, reliable, or fast.

Relying on free wifi fails when it comes to day-to-day stuff like using Google Maps, looking up restaurant reviews via Google/Trip Advisor/Yelp, using random apps, using Uber, booking e-tickets, using email, etc. because these are things you typically do spur of the moment. That’s why I prefer to have the option of having mobile data because having to seek out a coffee shop every time I want to use the internet gets tiring very quickly.

HOW TO LOWER YOUR MOBILE DATA USAGE

Data can be expensive and it’s extremely easy to unknowingly burn through a lot of data because many apps use data in the background. Facebook, email, Instagram, Snapchat… those all constantly use data throughout the day without you knowing it. That’s it’s important to know how to limit your data usage.

USE AIRPLANE MODE AND BLOCK DATA TO SPECIFIC APPS

I’ll put my phone in Airplane Mode because that disables all data (but GPS still works in Airplane Mode). You can also go into the settings and disable data access to each individual app. I’ll go in and turn every off except for things like Google Maps or others that I’ll use more frequently — this way when I turn off Airplane Mode only those apps that will use data. Then I’ll turn Airplane Mode back on when I’m done.

DOWNLOAD OFFLINE MAPS

Google Maps lets you download entire city maps so they can be used offline. As an added bonus, GPS doesn’t use data so offline Google Maps works fairly well (but not all functionality works). Here is a good  YouTube video  that explains everything.

MAKE CALLS OVER WhatsApp

WhatsApp is an excellent app for free calling and text messages—I’ve found that most people outside the US exclusively use WhatsApp to communicate (including many Airbnb hosts).

MORE TRAVEL ADVICE FROM THE SAVVY BACKPACKER

• How Much to Budget For Backpacking Through Europe
• How Much It Costs To Travel Europe  (For Multiple Travel Styles)
• Backpacking Europe Packing List
• Travel Europe Packing List for Women
• Guide to Prepaid eSIM Data Plans in Europe .
• Recent Posts

• Backpacking Europe Packing List — My Europe Travel Packing Guide - April 6, 2024
• Best eSIM For Europe Travel | Everything You Need To Know About European Prepaid eSIM Data Plans - March 24, 2024
• Holafly eSIM Review | Testing The New eSIM Data Plan from Holafly - March 3, 2024

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Questions? Learn more about our Strict Advertising Policy and How To Support Us .

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Best SIM Card For Europe: Everything You Need To Know

by Melissa Giroux | Last updated Dec 3, 2023 | Europe , SIM Cards , Travel Tips

Visiting Europe soon? Make sure to know what to expect when it comes to purchasing a Europe SIM card .

In this guide, we’ll explain where to buy a SIM card in Europe in person and online.

We’ll also discuss prepaid SIM cards and eSIMs if your mobile supports them.

Before you read this guide, you may wonder if you actually need a SIM card for Europe.

If you don’t mind not having Internet, you’ll likely find free Wifi in restaurants, shopping malls, and hotels.

That said, if you need data to get around, call a cab, or translate into a foreign language – you may want to get a SIM card for your travels in Europe .

Note that if you’re European, your mobile phone provider may already offer European coverage.

If that’s the case, you won’t need a European SIM card for your adventures.

📱 Best SIM Card For Europe

Europe is enormous, and you’ll find various mobile providers depending on the countries you’re visiting.

Most providers have partnerships and offer coverage in multiple countries in Europe.

We recommend using a European SIM card from Orange, Vodafone, or Airalo .

I’ll get back to Airalo later on, so keep reading to learn more!

That said, depending on your first destination, you might find other providers.

For example, in Bulgaria, many small providers offer coverage in other European countries too. You might not find big brands like Orange or Vodafone, but you’ll find others like A1, Vivacom, or Yettel.

So, you don’t have to use a big provider – any provider that offers coverage in Europe should do.

❓ How To Buy A Travel SIM Card For Europe

You can either buy a Europe prepaid SIM card in person in some international airports, in mobile provider stores, in a convenience store, or online.

Usually, you can expect higher costs and low data offers at the airport, so we don’t recommend buying a SIM card at the airport.

That said, you won’t necessarily find SIM card shops in every airport, so it’s essential to keep this in mind.

For this reason, I’d recommend buying a SIM card directly from the mobile provider store.

Note that you may need your passport to buy one. Each country has its own rules; you might even need to provide an address.

Although, this means you won’t get data right upon your arrival.

So, if you’d rather be connected at all times, you could use an eSIM or purchase a European prepaid SIM card online.

❓ How To Buy A Europe Prepaid SIM Card Online

If you wish to have your SIM card ready for your arrival, you could purchase it online or on websites like Amazon.

You’ll find different Europe SIM card plans on Amazon. For example, the Orange Holiday Europe Prepaid SIM Card works in over 30 countries and gives you 20GB of data for 14 days.

But there are many other options worth considering, so have a look and make sure the countries you’re planning on visiting are listed.

Browse your options on Amazon

Another option is to purchase a prepaid EU SIM card on SimOptions .

They offer a wide range of options in Europe, so look to find something that suits your needs.

Browse your options on SimOptions

Finally, the last option is to buy an eSIM plan for Europe.

❓ How To Buy A European eSIM Plan

eSIM is a new concept that allows you to have a virtual SIM card inside your phone.

If your mobile phone supports eSIM cards – it’s one of the best options to get data in Europe.

Curious? Learn more about the best eSIM providers .

Airalo Eurolink

Airalo offers many eSIM cards worldwide, and they have regional plans for Europe. I’ve been using Airalo in Europe for several months and love its convenience.

Read our complete Airalo eSIM review to learn more.

Here’s an overview of the options available in Europe :

• 1 GB, valid for 7 days for $5
• 3 GB, valid for 30 days for $13
• 5 GB, valid for 30 days for $20
• 10 GB, valid for 30 days for $37
• 50 GB, valid for 90 days for $100
• 100 GB, valid for 180 days for $185

The options mentioned above are part of Eurolink and include 39 countries.

Alternatively, if you’re traveling in other countries that are not mentioned on the list, you can try Discover Global, which offers coverage in 85 countries.

Here’s an overview of the options available on Discover Global :

• 1 GB, valid for 7 days for $9
• 3 GB, valid for 15 days for $24
• 5 GB, valid for 30 days for $35
• 10 GB, valid for 60 days for $59
• 20 GB, valid for 180 days for $89

Now, one important thing to note about Airalo is that you’ll need to keep an eye out for the provider in each country.

Suppose you ever have trouble connecting to the Internet during your trip.

In that case, it might be because you’re connecting automatically to networks, and you need to select a network manually instead.

When you purchase the eSIM, you’ll get access to the list of networks supported in each country.

Browse your options on Airalo

Holafly Europe

Alternatively, you could look at your options on Holafly . You can read our Holafly review to learn more about this eSIM store.

I’ve also tried Holafly during my travels in Europe, and it worked fine.

Overall, it’s important to note that Holafly is more expensive, but they offer unlimited plans in more than 50 countries and regions.

Holafly offers 24/7 support in multiple languages, which can be helpful if you need help setting up your eSIM plan.

The Holafly Europe eSIM works in 32 countries, and they offer the following plans:

• Unlimited data for 5 days for $19
• Unlimited data for 7 days for $27
• Unlimited data for 10 days for $34
• Unlimited data for 15 days for $47
• Unlimited data for 20 days for $54
• Unlimited data for 30 days for $64

Finally, Holafly allows you to make calls for up to 60 minutes and receive calls for up to 60 minutes.

Browse your options on Holafly

Nomad Europe

Another option worth considering is Nomad . They have a regional eSIM plan for Europe that includes coverage in 30 and 35 countries. 

Make sure the plan chosen covers the countries you plan to visit in Europe.

Here’s an overview of the plans offered by Nomad:

• 3 GB, valid for 30 days for $17
• 5 GB, valid for 30 days for $18
• 10 GB, valid for 30 days for $26

Browse your options on Nomad

BNESIM Europe

Finally, you could sign up for BNESIM Europe. They have a regional eSIM plan for Europe that includes coverage in 30 countries. 

BNESIM offers monthly plan subscriptions and one-time plans:

• 1 GB, no expiration for $3.77
• 3 GB, no expiration for $10.98
• 5 GB, no expiration for $17.73
• 10 GB, no expiration for $33.95

Browse your options on BNESIM

You can also get €4 off with my promo code: MELISSA4OFF.

Yoho Mobile Europe

Yoho Mobile is a newer eSIM provider that offers a European plan that works in 29 countries.

Yoho Mobile offers the following plans:

• 1GB, valid for 7 days for $4.50
• 3 GB, valid for 10 days for $10.99
• 5 GB, valid for 15 days for $17.50
• 10 GB, valid for 30 days for $33

Get a 5% discount on your first purchase with my Yoho Mobile promo code: abrokenbackpack5.

To add a coupon code, click on View Cart and paste the coupon code there.

To learn more, you can read our complete Yoho Mobile review .

Go to Yoho Mobile

💭 Final Thoughts On Europe SIM Card

As you can see, getting a prepaid SIM card in Europe or even an eSIM for Europe is pretty easy.

You can stay connected anywhere in Europe without changing your SIM card.

The eSIM card is the most convenient way to get data in Europe if you wish to have data on your arrival. This way, you won’t need to go to a store to buy a European SIM card.

You need to make sure your mobile phone supports eSIM first.

Traveling to Europe soon? Read one of the following blog posts:

• Cheapest European country to live in
• Best places to live in Europe
• Best beach towns in Spain

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Home » Europe » Buying a Sim Card in Europe – Travellers Buying Guide (2024)

Buying a Sim Card in Europe – Travellers Buying Guide (2024)

Are you planning a trip to Europe? Dreaming of tasting a gelato in Venice, sipping wine on the French Riviera, or hiking through the epic mountains of Switzerland? A trip to Europe is at the top of everyone’s bucket at some point.

You’ve probably already exchanged some cash into Euros, charged your camera and packed the sun cream, bt have you thought about how to get the best deal on a sim card?

Getting a sim card is often overlooked on the travel “to do” list. But you will know it’s important if you’ve ever been stung by roaming charges from your normal provider. Or worse still, it hasn’t worked at all!

In this buying a sim card in Europe guide we’ll help you to get to grips with all of the options, plus some other things you may not have considered.

GigSky Europe

• Price > From $0.00

OneSim Universal

• Price > $29.99

Holafly Europe Sim

• Price > €29

Nomad Europe Sim

• Price > $26

Why Buy a Sim Card For Europe?

Everything we do nowadays seems to be connected to the internet and travel is hard without it. Even in Europe where places are well set up for tourists, having a reliable internet connection can save you a ton of time and money.

Sure your hostel or a cafe may have free Wifi, but the likelihood is the connection will be slow and insecure. Imagine trying to watch YouTube with constant buffering. Or having to buy a coffee every time you get lost and need to use Google Maps. 

Of course, a lot of cities also offer Wi-Fi hotspots in Europe. The trouble with relying on these is you will be stuck in one place, trying to gather all of the information and update your Instagram, instead of actually enjoying the destination. And logging on to new hotspots can be time-consuming and frustrating.

Your home sim may work in Europe, but it also may not be the best solution. Expensive roaming charges and connections that are unreliable in foreign places are all too common.  

The best option is to get a sim card for Europe, so you are free to roam and use your phone as you please.

So, lets get started and help you find the best sim for traveling Europe.

Buying a Sim Card For Europe – Things To Consider

Where to buy a sim card for europe, best europe sim card providers, final thoughts on getting a sim card for europe.

Everyone’s needs are different when it comes to data usage. What may work for one person might be completely different to another person’s requirements. There are a lot of variables to be taken into consideration.

In this guide to buying a sim card in Europe, we will examine all of the options and work out what is right for you.

Of course, we all love a bargain and Europe is a pricey place to be a broke backpacker. Nobody likes getting ripped off by plans offering very little at an extortionate price.

But cheap sim cards aren’t always as good as they seem, you have to check the details carefully as extra data or top us can be costly.

For example, some local sims in Europe can only be topped up by a card registered in that country. It pays to read the details, so this guide will only cover EU sim cards that can be used AND topped up throughout the European Union.

Always pay attention to how much data you’re getting to start with. Sure it might be cheap, but if you burn through it in a couple of days and have to pay a hefty top-up charge you haven’t saved anything. Always check the price of data top-ups after your initial purchase.

You can check your normal daily usage with your current sim provider. It’s helpful to factor in a little more due to extra things like Google Maps, translation apps and creating epic Spotify playlists for long road trips.

Coverage is often overlooked when buying a Sim abroad but is something we would all check at home. Europe has a huge variety of networks and some are more widespread than others.

Are you staying mainly in cities? Or in more out-of-the-way spots? Will you be visiting islands? Or perhaps even be climbing mountains? These are all important factors to consider when buying a Sim in Europe.

Work out which provider has the best coverage in the places that you will be visiting. It’s pointless having unlimited data if you can’t use any of it!

Read our individual country guides to find out the best sim cards for each country in Europe.

Bureaucracy

Some companies like to get all of your information and turn buying a Sim into an elaborate exercise in signing you up to an email list. 

Getting a sim nowadays should be fast and easy. There should be minimal documents or red tape, especially in European countries.

However, Italy is well known for overcomplicating matters when it comes to bureaucracy. And Greece, well, it’s just Greece and everyone runs on Greek time. 

Northern Europe and Scandinavia are super efficient, as you would expect. While Eastern Europe can get complicated due to language barriers etc.

Always check the lifespan of your new sim. Many are single-use, made to be thrown into the airport bin as you leave. Something especially important if you’re considering an extended stay in Europe.

For digital nomads and long-term travellers, consider getting an open-ended sim card. Many providers will keep the card active as long as you create an online account and top up a certain number of times each year.

Although you can buy a sim card specifically for each country in Europe, a European sim makes sense if you are visiting more than one country.

The best and easiest option for buying a sim card in Europe is to get an eSim. Simply register online before your trip. There’s no need to find an outlet, negotiate prices in a different country, or pull your phone apart on an airport counter. 

An eSim is just like a normal sim but without a physical product. The only downside is that not all phones are compatible. Make sure that your device is eSIM-compatible and that your carrier is unlocked before purchasing.

A new country, a new contract, a new piece of plastic – booooring. Instead, buy an eSIM!

An eSIM works just like an app: you buy it, you download it, and BOOM! You’re connected the minute you land. It’s that easy.

Is your phone eSIM ready? Read about how e-Sims work or click below to see one of the top eSIM providers on the market and  ditch the plastic .

In The Airport

In almost all European countries you can get a sim from the airport when you arrive. 

It’s super convenient and the airport staff will usually be able to speak some English. Offers are usually well explained and quite straightforward.

Although this is an easy way to get set up with data straight away, the price is often inflated. Much like money exchanges in airports, sim providers know they have a captive audience and the price reflects that.

A good thing is that often, only the very best network providers can afford airport kiosks, so you know the network will probably have good coverage.

There are phone stores all over the world and they usually have no problems selling a SIM card to a traveler, but it can be complicated to find one with enough data and coverage.

There are a huge number of options when it comes to buying sims at local stores in Europe. 

The main issue is that you will have to find your way around a new city without any data first to find the store. It can also be tricky negotiating a deal to get a deal in Spanish, Italian, French, German, Spanish, etc. I tried to do this to get a SIM card in Spain , it was a challenge as a non-Spanish speak!

Many large European cities (excluding Denmark) will have official internet provider retail stores like Vodafone, Orange, 3 (Three), and T-Mobile. Like in an airport, they will set the sim up for you and make sure it’s working before you leave.

You can also pick up a sim from gas stations, supermarkets and in corner shops. But this is tricky as you will need to set it up yourself, you may also need to provide ID to purchase one. It’s pointless getting a great deal if you can’t get your sim working!

You can usually ask your hostel or accommodation where the best place to get a sim locally is, sometimes they actually might sell a sim themselves. But be warned, this usually isn’t the cheapest option (again captive audience).

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Free EU Roaming

Since June 2017 people can use their EU sim card in Spain, France, Italy, Germany and in fact any EU or Schengen country without any extra charges. There are no roaming charges if you buy a sim card in one country and travel to other countries within the European Union. 

There are exceptions with some parts of Eastern Europe, especially if they’re not part of the European Union. Certain carriers also vary country to country, so it’s always best to check with the specific places you are visiting. 

But in general, EU member countries all have free roaming (note the UK left the EU in 2020 and things are still a little “up in the air”).

The easiest way to get a good deal on a sim card for Europe is to buy one online before your trip. You can shop around and find the best deal for you.

Most will post straight to your home address, just make sure to leave plenty of time for the post to arrive.

There are loads of European sim card options to choose from. To make it easier, we have compiled this easy-to-understand guide to the best sim card for Europe. 

Plus, international sim cards that are not destination specific – that means you can use them almost anywhere.

All of these international sim cards are perfect for visiting multiple countries in Europe with free EU roaming. 

If you are visiting just one country in Europe, check out our country-specific guides.

Established in 2010 and based in Palo Alto, California, GigSky is a mobile technology firm that specialises in providing e-SIM and SIM card data services to travellers across the globe. Distinguishing itself from the majority of eSIM providers, GigSky operates as an independent Network Operator, collaborating with over 400 carriers worldwide.

GigSky offers competitively priced data packages accessible in more than 190 countries, along with a global sim option, several regional sim packages, and a bespoke “Land + Sea” package tailored for cruise goers.

While GigSky does not provide local phone numbers, customers can still place and receive calls via apps like WhatsApp, Signal, and Skype, utilising the data included in their eSim plans

OneSim are a Boston-based sim provider who have been specialising in traveler-friendly  international sim packages  for some time now. They have a different array of International Sim Cards that will work in many different countries including India.

This is a great option for regular travelers who visit a number of different countries or simply make repeat visits to the same country.

If your phone is e-Sim compatible, then check out the OneSimCard eSim World package. That way, you can find out more about  e-sims and how they work .

OneSimCard eSIM World

• Offers coverage in 150+ countries with free incoming calls received on an EU number in most of them.
• Sim + Data Packages from $13.00.
• No expiration date.

If your phone is NOT e-Sim card ready, then stick with plastic and check out their Europe & More Package which will work all across Europe.

• Offers coverage in Greece + European countries.
• Sim + Data Packages from $29.99.

The HolaFly Europe SIM Card is a prepaid unlimited data plan in Europe, covered by AT&T, one of Europe’s largest data networks.

• Sim cost starting from 29 EUR 
• Unlimited data in 48 countries, no calls or texts included
• Packages between 5 to 90 days

If you want to know more, check out our HolaFly review .

Nomad offers great value eSims across the world, they promise a near-local price with no contract, no hidden fees and no nasty roaming charges. 

The Europe Sim comes in 4 options from 1GB to 10GB and can easily be topped up with add-ons if needed. 

• The Value Pack is $26
• You get 10 GB of data and keep your normal sim for phone calls and texts
• It expires after 30 days

If you want to know more about Nomad, check out our Nomad review .

From Italy’s iconic food and history to Greece’s glorious islands and beaches, there’s something for everyone in Europe, but staying connected can make life a lot easier.

Navigating the winding streets of Rome or the busy roads of Paris will be much simpler with the right data package. 

We hope this guide has helped you to choose the right sim card for your trip. Let us know how you get on in the comments! We always love to hear from you guys.

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

Aiden Freeborn

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Best Sim Cards For Europe (Top Options For Tourists)

Whenever you are traveling, staying connected is essential. We depend on our phones for so much these days – everything from ordering a taxi to finding a restaurant, making hotel and flight bookings, plus navigating on Google Maps from one spot to another is done on our phones.

But, what sim card should you be using for your upcoming trip to Europe? You have the option of using eSim cards, international sim cards, or a local prepaid sim card, and we are going to focus on the latter.

At A Glance: Our Top 3 Sim Cards For Europe

• Best For High Data Needs Orange Holiday Europe Prepaid Sim Card Jump To Review
• Best All Rounder Orange Holiday Zen Prepaid Sim Card Jump To Review
• Best On A Budget Three UK Data Pack Prepaid Sim Card Jump To Review

Join me as I run through everything you need to know in order to find the best sim card for Europe. We look at the best deals, costs, data, and how to buy a prepaid sim card for Europe too.

Best Prepaid Sim Cards for Europe

Top product overview, best sim card for europe, orange holiday europe prepaid sim card.

The Orange Holiday Europe Prepaid Sim Card is one of the top Europe sim cards around if you want to stay connected with the world during your travels.

It includes everything you will need from 20 GB of data, unlimited calls and SMS in Europe, and inclusive worldwide mins and SMS.

You can call any hotel/restaurant in Europe to make reservations on your mobile phone and even call home with this Europe sim card without paying any extra.

The Orange sim card works in most European countries and since Orange is one of the biggest local networks in Europe, you will always have fast and reliable connection speeds.

The only issue with these sim cards is that they run out after 14 days, not so great if you are on a long trip. Also, if you are traveling on a budget the price might be a little high.

• Works in all of Europe
• A good amount of mobile data
• Unlimited calls and texts within Europe
• Stay connected globally with inclusive mins and sms
• Fast and reliable connections
• Sim fits in all phones
• Good value for what you get
• Easy to top up
• Short validity of 14 days
• More expensive than others

Product Information

• Price: $49.90
• Data: 20 GB
• Calls: Unlimited in Europe, 120 mins worldwide
• Texts/SMS: Unlimited in Europe, 1,000 worldwide
• Valid For: 14 days
• Service Speed: 4G/LTE
• Data Tethering: Yes

Orange Holiday Zen Prepaid Sim Card

The Orange Holiday Zen Prepaid Sim Card is similar to the Orange Holiday sim cards we looked at above but is more affordable and comes with less data/calls/sms.

With these European sim cards, you get 8 GB of data, unlimited calls, and SMS in Europe, and a few global mins and SMS too. If you do not need much data while traveling around Europe then this is a much more affordable option.

Again, being an Orange sim, you will have a reliable and fast connection in most countries in Europe. But, it does only last 14 days until you have to top-up again so it is not ideal for longer trips.

• Great coverage and reliable connection
• Works in all countries in Europe
• Unlimited calls and texts in Europe
• Inclusive global mins and sms
• Enough data for most
• Fast connection speeds
• A sim size for all phones
• Only lasts 14 days
• Not enough mobile data for heavy users
• Price: $29.90
• Calls: Unlimited in Europe, 30 mins worldwide
• Texts/SMS: Unlimited in Europe, 200 worldwide

Three UK Data Pack Prepaid Sim Card

The Three UK Data Pack Sim Cards offer the best value of all the prepaid sim cards featured in the article.

For an affordable price, you get 10 GB of data along with unlimited calls and sms in Europe and it is valid for 30 days, making it ideal for longer trips.

The sim card works in all unlocked tablets and mobile phones, starts working as soon as you plug it in, and you will have a fast connection with good coverage in 49 countries in Europe.

The only downside to these sim cards is if you are a heavy data user as 10 GB might not be enough for your trip and you may have to top up.

• Works in 49 countries in Europe
• Fits in all unlocked phones and tablets
• A solid data package
• Valid for 30 days
• Fast and reliable connection
• Data is low for heavy users
• Price: $24.90
• Data: 10 GB
• Calls: Unlimited in Europe
• Texts/SMS: Unlimited in Europe
• Valid For: 30 days
• Service Speed: 5G/4G/3G

O2 Go Card Prepaid Sim Card

The O2 Go Card Prepaid Sim Card is a great European sim card if you are looking for data only while you travel around Europe.

It is a UK local sim card that works on every unlocked mobile phone and tablet that comes with a UK number and 10 GB of data.

If your data usage is about average, this should be enough data for the 30 days it is valid for.

This Europe sim card allows you to stay connected in all countries in Europe. You will have a reliable and fast 4G connection everywhere you go, and you can top up to add calls and SMS to the local sim card too.

Compared to other sim cards, it is a pretty good value for the data you are getting. But, if your data usage is high, the included 10 GB might not be enough.

• Valid for longer than others
• A good amount of data allowance
• Works in all phones
• Reliable connection
• Fast speeds
• Add credit to make local calls
• No free calls and texts included
• Might not match your data needs
• Calls: $2 credit
• Texts/SMS: $2 credit
• Service Speed: 4G/3G

Is A Sim Card Essential When Traveling to Europe?

Is a sim card essential when traveling in Europe, yes and no, and here is why.

You can get by while traveling in Europe without a local sim card as you will be able to jump onto a free WiFi connection in most places. Airports, trains, restaurants, cafes, hotels, shops, you name it, most of them will give you a free WiFi connection.

But, living on WiFi only is a bit of a pain if I am honest. Things like using Google Maps on the move and ordering an Uber in the street will not be possible plus, constantly asking for WiFi passwords will get annoying.

Also, staying connected with loved ones will be inconsistent, and walking home at night without any way of communicating can be a safety concern.

You always have the option of data roaming on your sim card from home, but the fees that come with this are extortionate and is way more affordable to buy the best Europe sim card for you.

Overall, it is worth buying a sim card for Europe in my eyes. Being connected will make your trip a lot smoother, easier, and safer all for not that much cash.

Things to Know Before Buying A Sim Card in Europe

Is your phone unlocked.

Your phone needs to be unlocked from your mobile phone provider back home in order to work with other sim cards.

If you bought your phone yourself it will already be unlocked but if you got it for free in the monthly contract through your provider, chances are it is locked to said provider.

To unlock your phone, just call your provider and request they unlock it, it should only take a few minutes.

Are You Using A GSM Phone?

You might not know this but phones can use either GSM or CDMA technology to stay connected to a network, and a GSM sim card will not work in a CDMA phone, and vice versa.

Pretty much everywhere in the world uses GSM including Europe whereas the United States and Canada use both GSM and CDMA.

If you are from North America and you use either Sprint or Verizon, you may have a CDMA phone and it will not work with any sim cards for Europe.

The only solution to using all the sim cards in Europe is to buy an affordable unlocked phone for your trip.

You Will Get A New Phone Number

When you insert your new sim card for Europe, you will be using the number that comes with that sim card, meaning your home number will not work. This means you can not receive calls or SMS’ on your usual number.

The only way around this is to have a dual sim phone or to use apps such as Whatsapp or Facetime for calls and SMS’ that work over data only.

Another issue this can present is when you need to authorize things like payments and transfers that use your home number for authentication. You will have to put your home sim in your phone to get the authentication message.

How to Buy A Sim Card in Europe

Buying a sim card before traveling to europe.

If you want to be connected as soon as you land in Europe then buying a sim card online is a good option.

The sim card will be sent to your door and all you need to do is insert it into your phone when you land. Once installed, you will have a connection and all the data, calls, and SMS’ that come with it.

This is a much more convenient option than buying a sim card in Europe at the airport or at a store. You do not have to queue, register, pick a plan, etc, it is all done for you.

Buying A Sim Card in Europe

Buying a sim card once you land in Europe involves finding a store, registering, and activating your sim card.

You won’t be able to be connected as soon as you land and will have to depend on airport WiFi, or other connections until you get your hands on a sim card.

However, you will be able to get a much better deal in most cases by buying a sim card on the ground as these offers are not available online.

How Much Does A Sim Card in Europe Cost?

The actual physical sim card is free in most of Europe and once you have it, you simply add a plan. The cost of the plan and what it includes depends on the provider and the country you are in but is usually very affordable.

If we look at EE UK prepaid sim cards (the ones I use in Europe), for just £30 ($37) you get 125 GB of data plus unlimited calls and texts within Europe for 30 days, what a deal!

You should be able to find similar deals to this in most countries in Europe.

How to Activate & Top Up Your European Sim Card

If you have bought a prepaid sim, it will already be activated. If you bought your sim card in a shop, then the staff should have already activated it too.

But, if you do need to activate your sim, simply call the customer service department and request activation or go online and follow the instructions.

Topping up your sim card is super easy and can be done via a credit card on your phone or online. Simply call the automated top-up service number for the provider and follow the instructions, or go online and top-up via the provider’s website.

Free Data Roaming in Europe

Almost all European sim cards allow you to use your data freely in all European countries. This means if you fly from the UK to France, to Switzerland, to Portugal, and end up in Spain, you can use the same sim card and the data, calls, and SMS pack that come with it in all the countries.

Managing Your Mobile Data in Europe

If you are on a budget and want to conserve your data in Europe there are some clever ways of doing so. Here are some tips:

• Download where you are traveling in Google Maps on WiFi for offline use
• Keep your phone in airplane mode when you are not using it
• Only use apps like Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and Netflix on WiFi
• Connect to free WiFi when you can

Frequently Asked Questions

Do you need a different sim card for every country in europe.

No, you only need one sim card for every country in Europe as your data, calls, and SMS’ are valid in most EU countries

Can I get unlimited data in Europe?

Yes, you can get unlimited data in Europe but it is hard to come by on physical sim cards and your best bet is to use an eSim with Holafly. You can find the best eSim for Europe here .

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4 Best SIM Cards for Europe

Home | Travel | Europe | 4 Best SIM Cards for Europe

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If you’re organizing a trip to the EU or another European country, consider getting a reliable SIM card for Europe . By having internet while you travel , you’ll be able to look up information easily and quickly, obtain attraction schedules, and access Google Maps. You can even check your email or book a last-minute hotel.

In this guide, you’ll find all the information you need to choose the best SIM card for Europe . I’ll tell you now that I always use the Holafly eSIM , which offers digital European SIM cards with unlimited data , as well as coverage in over 32 European destinations. Since it’s a digital SIM, you can install it in just a few minutes, so if that sounds good to you, click our link below for an Holafly discount .

5% OFF your international eSIM card

Of course, there are other international SIM cards for Europe besides Holafly , so keep reading to learn about some other options. I’ll provide an overview of each card, including its pros and cons, so you can choose the most convenient option for your trip.

Roaming in Europe and free data in all EU countries with a single Europe SIM card

Before diving into the best European SIM cards , you need to understand how roaming works in Europe . Roaming is when you use a SIM card from a country in a different country for accessing data, making calls, or receiving text messages. Roaming services are possible through agreements between phone companies of different countries. Most of the time, roaming is very expensive even if you travel to the cheapest places to visit in Europe and you can get a huge bill when you return home if you use it. That is why, most of the time, we recommend avoiding roaming.

That said, a few years ago, the European Union passed an interesting law that made roaming free between the countries of the EU, Iceland, Liechtenstein, and Norway . In other words, if you get a SIM card for Europe , you’ll be able to use your data throughout the continent, regardless of where you bought it. When you access the Internet, you’ll be charged the same rates as the ones in the SIM card’s country of origin.

Now, if you intend to use roaming during your trip with a non-European SIM card, keep in mind that the price is generally very expensive. To avoid hefty rates and a pricey phone bill, I recommend using a European SIM card . I’m sharing four great options in this article, so you can still use data and access the Internet without running up a large bill.

However, if you’re going to travel to a European country that’s not part of the agreement, remember to double-check that your phone’s roaming option is disabled. Otherwise, your device will start roaming automatically once you land at your destination. For example, you will need a SIM Card for Andorra , if you want to visit this country and avoid roaming fees.

European SIM cards price comparison

To help you get a quick overview of the different European SIM card options in this article, here is a chart comparing each one’s price. You can also see the differences in duration and amount of data.

Remember to consider the length of your trip before buying a SIM card for Europe since a two-week visit won’t require as much data as a months-long getaway.

Moreover, you’ll see that I’ve included the Holafly eSIM card for Europe as well as the most popular local European SIM cards , which I’ll discuss in detail below.

What is the best SIM card for Europe?

After analyzing each SIM card for Europe and comparing the details, it looks like the best option for a two-week trip is the Holafly eSIM . It offers unlimited data at the same price as SimOptions and Orange, with the added benefit that you can install and activate it before leaving for your trip. This way, you’ll be able to access the Internet in Europe as soon as you arrive at your destination.

On the other hand, if you plan on traveling for a month and you don’t think you’ll need much data, there are cheaper local SIM cards for Europe . Just keep in mind that you won’t be able to get your SIM until you reach your destination, and in the case of Vodafone, you’ll have to go to one of the authorized retailers to buy it.

Keep reading to learn more about each of these tourist SIM cards for Europe and what to expect from each one.

1. Holafly eSIM , the best SIM card for Europe

First, the Holafly eSIM is one of the best options, and my personal favorite whenever I travel. This eSIM card for Europe is super convenient since all you have to do is order it on the website to get it delivered straight to your phone. As soon as you make the purchase, you’ll receive an email with a QR code, so just scan it and you’ll activate your digital SIM card for Europe .

What’s so great about Holafly is that you can get the international eSIM anywhere in the world, whether you’re already in Europe, the US, or any other country. You can even order it before you take off, so you can be prepared to access the Internet as soon as you land at your destination. Just make sure that you check here to ensure that your device is compatible with this type of eSIM for European travel .

Another nice thing about this option is that it’s quite useful for phones that don’t have a dual SIM slot. Rather than having to take out your original SIM and replace it with a SIM card for Europe (and risk losing your original card), you can simply go digital. Plus, if you run into any problems or concerns, you can contact Holafly’s support team 24/7.

Yet another advantage of Holafly is that it has a large variety of plans, so you don’t have to pay a huge amount for longer-term data. Even if you’re only going to be traveling for a week, you can find plans with unlimited data, so it’s ideal for remote workers, staying in touch with loved ones, or searching useful info on the Web. If you decide to go with this option, don’t forget that you can get a 5% discount on Holafly just for being our reader.

2. SimOptions card , another reliable SIM card for Europe

In case the Holafly eSIM isn’t compatible with your phone, or you prefer a physical SIM card for Europe , consider getting one with SimOptions .

You can easily request your card through this link to receive it at home. They deliver to the US, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and most countries in Europe. However, check before the delivery time here , so you make sure it arrives on time. To install the card, all you have to do is remove your original SIM and insert the new one. This is even easier if your phone has a dual SIM slot since you can keep both cards inserted.

You’ll immediately be able to use data on your device, but if you have any questions or issues, you can contact customer service by phone, chat, or email.

While it’s true that SimOptions has cheaper prices than Holafly , SimOptions’ plans don’t offer as much data. So, if you want to work from abroad or you know you’ll be consuming a lot of data, you may end up running out and having to purchase another plan. I always prefer having a European SIM card with unlimited data , which is why I choose Holafly.

Of course, SimOptions has the benefit of allowing users to share data (something you can’t do with the unlimited Holafly plans), so you can buy an international SIM card and use it on several devices.

3. Orange card, a popular SIM card for Europe

If you’re looking for another one of the best SIM cards for Europe , consider Orange . This is a well-known telecommunications company in many European countries, so it works very well and offers coverage in over 30 destinations.

To get this SIM card for Europe , you must go to one of the physical stores, which are in Belgium, France, Luxembourg, Moldova, Poland, Romania, Slovakia, and Spain. If you aren’t going to any of those countries, you can request the card through SimOptions and have it delivered to your hotel. Just be aware that the delivery can take up to three business days.

Moreover, the Orange SIM card for Europe configures itself automatically, so once you insert it, you’ll be able to start accessing the Web immediately. Just make sure that the roaming service is activated on your phone first.

On the other hand, if you’re going to be traveling for longer than the duration of your plan, you’ll have to register your SIM card on the Orange website. If you don’t, it will be automatically canceled once it expires.

To sum up, while this is a cheap prepaid SIM card for Europe , it only offers two-week plans. Also, if you aren’t traveling to the countries I mentioned above, you’ll have to order your SIM by mail. For this reason, I prefer paying a bit more for the Holafly eSIM since I receive it immediately.

4. Vodafone, another European SIM card you can use

Finally, Vodafone is another large telecommunications company in Europe, with physical stores in Albania, the Czech Republic, Germany, the UK, Greece, Ireland, Italy, the Netherlands, Portugal, Romania, and Spain. If the first stop on your travel itinerary is in any of those countries, you can go to one of the retail stores and get your European SIM card in person.

Otherwise, I don’t recommend getting this SIM card for Europe since Vodafone doesn’t offer home delivery outside of the countries I mentioned above.

As long as you’ll be in one of those destinations, the Vodafone SIM card for Europe is a viable option. The prices are quite cheap, there are various plans with lots of data, and you can share data with several devices. In addition, the installation process is simple since you can insert the card into your mobile device to instantly access the Internet. If you want to keep this travel SIM for Europe beyond the duration of your plan, just renew it.

Where to buy a SIM card for Europe

You can buy a SIM card for Europe before you travel or once you land, although it’ll depend on which option you choose. If you prefer getting everything set up before your trip, you’ll want a travel eSIM for Europe . However, if you’re more flexible, you can buy the SIM once you arrive at your destination.

Buy a SIM card for Europe before your trip

If you want to get a SIM card for your Europe trip before you leave your home country, then the Holafly eSIM is the best option. In this case, you’ll receive it digitally via email, so all you have to do is scan the QR code to activate it on your device. You can even contact customer support to clear up any issues or confusion before your trip.

If your phone isn’t compatible with Holafly, or you prefer a physical SIM card for Europe , you can also order a SimOptions SIM Card and will be delivered at home, before your trip. Just make sure you order it with plenty of time.

Buy a European SIM card upon arrival

Another alternative is to buy a European SIM card once you arrive at your destination. You can do so at the airport or at one of the physical Orange or Vodafone stores. Of course, with this option, you won’t be able to access the Internet until you insert the SIM into your device.

Also, keep in mind that sometimes it’s a pain to find the store and wait in line to buy your SIM card. This can waste valuable vacation time, which is why I always try to avoid this option. Instead, I prefer purchasing an eSIM card before my trip so that once I land, I can focus on exploring new places and enjoying myself.

To buy your SIM card in Europe , you’ll need to show your passport and complete the registration process for the card. Then, you can insert the SIM into your device to start using data on your phone. I always recommend checking that everything is working correctly before you leave the store, so you can avoid any inconveniences later on. To review the data, you can look at the phone’s USSD codes, and the employees at the store should be able to help you if you’re not sure how to do this.

How to activate a European SIM card

Again, the Holafly eSIM for Europe is activated automatically once you scan the QR code that arrives in your email. For physical SIMs, you must insert it into your device first.

Setup is usually automatic, so you shouldn’t have any problems. However, I always suggest waiting until your phone has an Internet signal so you can be sure that it’s working correctly. This way, you can sort out any issues in the store.

If you ordered your SIM card for Europe from home, you could contact the customer service team to resolve any problems.

Requirements to use a SIM card in Europe

To buy a European SIM card , all you need is a valid passport. Simply choose the data plan you want, either online or in-store, and you can make your purchase.

In the case of Holafly, you can check your phone’s compatibility with the European travel eSIM through this link . Holafly is compatible with over 200 phone models, so your device should work without any problems. If you’re interested in learning more about how the Holafly eSIM works, check out our guide and click our link for a 5% discount on your purchase.

Regardless of the type of European SIM card you choose, you must make sure that your phone is unlocked and compatible with your destination country’s network frequency. This is the most important thing to remember if you want to use a travelers data plan in Europe .

Now you know everything you need to decide which SIM card for Europe is best for you . As you can see, you have several options to choose from, so I’m sure you’ll find one that suits your needs, budget, and preferences.

If you have any questions, or you want to share your experience with these physical or virtual SIM cards for Europe , leave me a comment below. I will be delighted to hear from you.

Until then, have a great trip, and enjoy Europe!

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The best SIM cards for travelling across Europe

Travelling across Europe and don’t want to have to stay out of touch or keep swapping SIMS? We’ve got you covered with our guide to the best international SIM cards and options for travelling in Europe.

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Roaming in Europe

Best europe travel sim.

• Best Europe Travel eSIM
• Best Europe Roaming SIM

Europe is a super popular destination for Australian travellers, whether it’s for business purposes or simply to take in the hundreds of years of culture across the continent – not to mention all the very fine regional food options open to you. Which is great, right up until you want to call back to the office, check your messages or simply send a photo of that amazing meal you just had to social media.

That’s where having a smart approach to your travel SIM can save you serious money. While the really bad old days where watching one YouTube video could send you into bankruptcy on your return to Australian shores are (mostly) behind us, it’s still worth weighing up your options to get the best deal, whether you plan to use a full “Travel” SIM, a local SIM option or roaming from your existing telco.

It is worth noting that if your European travel is purely within the European Union (as distinct from the wider European continent) then the EU’s roaming rules around calls, texts and data apply – but it’s worth checking if a given provider has fair use provisions for roaming use in play for data, as those can sometimes obscure hidden fees.

• Bali Travel SIMs
• New Zealand Travel SIMs
• Japan Travel SIMs

Australia Post International Roaming

There’s a number of choices in the Japan Travel SIM market that you can order before you leave Australia from brands such as Sakura Mobile and B-Mobile, but if you are going the Travel SIM route it’s hard to overlook Mobal’s short-term tourist SIMs. Starting at ¥4,730 (~$50 AUD, depending on exchange rates) for an unlimited data-only 8 day SIM up to ¥7,920 (~$83) for a full 30 days with unlimited data.

It's worth noting that Japan allows a, shall we say, more “loose” definition of “ unlimited ” than you might think would apply, before you plan to start downloading the entire Netflix back catalogue to your tablet. Most plans are limited to 3GB of data per day, after which data speeds “may” be reduced. For most tourists being prudent 3GB a day is plenty enough, even if you are uploading most of your food and location snaps to Instagram at a frenzied pace.

Mobal’s SIMs work on the Softbank and Docomo networks in Japan with a claimed 99% population coverage, which should cover most places you’re likely to go on business or holiday within Japan.

Best eSIM for Europe

Airalo eurolink.

Airalo’s business model is entirely eSIM focused based around its own app. For European travellers across a number of countries your best best is one of its Eurolink packages, covering 39 countries with coverage periods ranging from 7 days to 180 days and data inclusions from 1GB up to 100GB. If your travel needs are more constrained, Airalo also offers single country packages that may offer you more data for less money, so it’s smart to check beforehand.

The big advantage here is that you can set up the Airalo app and an account all before you ever step foot on a plane, giving you peace of mind that when you land you’ll be able to message home with confidence. The downside, however, is that you must have an eSIM-enabled handset to use Airalo’s services, which cuts out many budget phones and some older premium models entirely.

Best Australian deal for Europe roaming

Vodafone $5 roaming.

Vodafone was the first Australian telco to really get on board with roaming charges that didn’t make you feel like you’d just been run over by a 747 when you returned home. Its $5/day surcharge to access your plan’s existing inclusions remains the gold standard for ease of use and ease of understanding, though it’s worth noting that its data capped speed plans do not include the endless speed capped data once you’ve gone through your primary provision. In those cases, you’ll get hit for $5 for each additional 1GB of data you need.

Here's a selection of Vodafone plans that support $5/day international roaming

The big catch with Vodafone $5 a day roaming is that it adds up over a lengthy European sojourn, so it’s best matched for when you might be quickly travelling through Europe for just a couple of days. Anything longer than that, and travel SIMs, local SIMs and travel eSIMs quickly become a more financially prudent option.

Vodafone aren’t your only option for roaming-friendly telcos within Australia, however. Here’s a range of alternative telco options that support roaming within Europe:

It can be highly beneficial to grab a local SIM in Europe for your travels, because typically local rates are cheaper and offer larger data inclusions than just about any travel SIM or roaming deal. There’s the added benefit for the EU specifically here too that member states (plus Iceland, Liechtenstein and Norway) all support cross-border roaming at no additional cost. Look for deals from some of the bigger cross-European Telcos such as Orange or Vodafone to get the best deal for the right price.

You’ll find no shortage of local SIM providers in every single major European airport if you favour convenience, though often they sell “tourist” specific SIMs with a slight surcharge in return for that easy pickup.

If you’re staying longer in a specific country, it’s worth researching local options and storefronts to see if you can get a prepaid SIM through them. Be careful, however, as you don’t want to get stung by a monthly plan that’s no use to you once you’ve left Europe, and some providers in some countries won’t accept credit card payments for some mobile services if the credit card itself isn’t local.

If your current handset doesn’t support eSIM, then sadly, the answer is no. You absolutely need the internal circuitry for eSIM support to be present on your phone in the first place.

If your phone does support eSIMs, then it’s quite easy to set up your eSIM before you travel. We’ve got a handy guide to setting up eSIMs for Apple iPhone and Android here .

The absolute cheapest way to “roam” when overseas is to throw your phone into a canal the moment you land. But that’s environmentally unsound, so don’t do it.

The second cheapest way is to use public Wi-Fi where available. In Europe, that’s a lot of places, including most accommodation venues. Instead of throwing your phone into a canal, switch off its roaming data (or data altogether) and switch to using Wi-Fi plus services such as Facetime, FaceBook Messenger and WhatsApp as your temporary “phone” number while you’re travelling. Use the offline maps capability of services such as Google Maps for navigation, load up on offline streaming services and music, and you can survive without having to pay anything extra at all for data.

Bear in mind, however, that public networks sit outside your control, and you never know who might be doing a little not-so-idle-not-so-friendly packet sniffing to get hold of your data. If you’re planning on relying on public Wi-Fi while travelling, investing in proper secure VPN access is a must.

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Top 5 Best European SIM Cards for Travelers

With over 160 cultures and thousands of years of history squeezed onto the second smallest continent (that’s only slightly bigger than the U.S.), Europe offers more than enough possible experiences to last a lifetime.

You could easily spend a weekend, a season, or even years exploring the labyrinthine cities of its 44 countries.

Traveling to a new city is always exciting with so many things to see and so little time. Getting lost in an unfamiliar area without a signal might stop you from completing your carefully curated travel list. Why take the risk of wandering into an unfamiliar area when you can use your Google Maps?

Sort out your data plan ahead of time and make sure you stay connected no matter where your explorations take you. Here’s our pick of the five best European eSIMs for travelers.

The Best European eSIMs for Travelers

Learning to use your phone abroad comes with a curve. There are plenty of stories of travelers getting slammed by mind-bending charges that they unwittingly racked up on their vacation. While getting a local SIM card largely solves that problem, it’s not super convenient – especially if you’re visiting a new country every week.

Does affordable and convenient seem too good to be true? Not with an eSIM . If you’re headed to Europe, you need one. Here are the best European eSIM cards for travelers.

1. Eurolink Prepaid Regional eSIM

Eurolink Prepaid Regional eSIM

Planning a European getaway for a month or traveling for work? Take advantage of one of Eurolink’s six prepaid regional eSIM cards .

Data packages range from 1 to 100GB, and from one week to six months, respectively. That gives you the most flexibility to choose the amount of data you want to pay for (and it’s all easy to top up). With 39 countries covered, you’ll also have just one plan and the freedom to go practically anywhere. It’s the ultimate European adventure data plan.

Choose this option when:

• Your itinerary will take you to multiple countries and you’d prefer not to worry about your SIM card
• You’ll be there long-term and need a data plan for 90 or 180 days
• You want a month-to-month data plan that’s easily rechargeable

2.   Discover Global eSIM

New rules are coming for travelers headed to the Schengen Zone . That means your trip to Europe might include more than Europe itself if you plan on traveling for more than three months.

If you’re pondering a trip to Iceland, France, or even Morocco, consider picking up Global eSIM from Airalo instead. It works in 95 countries (that’s not a typo) and is available in weekly or monthly increments.

The world is your oyster, and we’ve got the ideal data plans for enjoying it. Choose this option when:

• You want maximum freedom to wander into nearby countries not covered by the Eurolink eSIM
• You are a long-term traveler and you’re just passing through Europe
• You will travel to countries like Hungary, which may experience slower data rates with the Eurolink eSIM

3. Mamma Mia Prepaid eSIM for Italy

Mamma Mia Prepaid eSIM for Italy

Are you planning on joining the roughly 90 million tourists who visit Italy each year? Pick up a cheap, Italy-specific prepaid Mamma Mia eSIM , the country’s most affordable eSIM data plan.

The 5GB plan for 30 days costs as little as $10.50.

Is Italy on your itinerary? Choose this option when you:

• Are only going to Italy and don’t need to pay for additional countries
• Just need a local eSIM for a few days or a week
• Want slightly faster data than the largest, local networks in the area

4. Bonbon Mobile Prepaid eSIM for France

Bonbon Mobile Prepaid eSIM for France

No trip to France is complete without splashing for an exquisite meal, marveling at the awe-inspiring architecture, and of course, the CHOCOLATE.

Make sure you get your fill of Bonbon … the prepaid eSIM card , that is.

Like Mamma Mia, Bonbon Mobile gives you a range of data plans. While we’ve found that the seven-day 1GB package is the most popular, you’ve got a choice of three 30-day options as well. That gives you plenty of time to explore the cities and equally gorgeous countryside to your heart’s content.

Hopping on a flight to France? Choose this option when you:

• Are only going to France and don’t want the cost of service in additional countries
• Need flexibility in the length of your data plans
• Aren’t sure how much data you’ll need and want the ability to adjust plans as needed

5.   Guay Mobile Prepaid eSIM for Spain

Guay Mobile Prepaid eSIM for Spain

The E.U.’s second-largest country boasts beaches on two oceans, as many castles as you can imagine, and 63 percent of the region’s olive oil production. It’s also a tremendously popular digital nomad and tourist destination, thanks to its lower cost of living.

The eSIM data plans from Guay Mobile reflect that last fact, with 1GB of data costing as little as $4.50. If you’re staying longer than a week, however, you can get a 30-day, 5GB supply for $12.

That’s about as simple and easy as you can get. Choose this option when you:

• Need a cheap, flexible data plan that’s only available for Spain
• Aren’t sure how long you’ll stay and want an easily rechargeable plan
• Want the network speed and reliability

Stay Connected No Matter Where You Visit

If you’re headed to Europe, make sure you sort out your mobile data plan ahead of time. The eSIM is a convenient, flexible, affordable way to make sure that you stay connected no matter where you’re headed. We’ve covered the five best European SIM cards for travelers in 2022. Whether you’re touring the entire continent or spending time in some of the cultural capitals of the region, we’ve got packages that will suit your every need.

Discover how Airalo eSIM store can help make your next vacation stress-free.

Ready to try eSIMs and change the way you stay connected?

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The Top 10 Best Travel Sims for Europe in 2023

As people who like to travel, we know how important it is to stay in touch while visiting new places. Whether you want to stay in touch with loved ones or find your way around cities you don’t know, you need a reliable and affordable travel SIM card.

With so many choices, it can be hard to figure out which one is best for your next trip to Europe. We’ve put together a complete list of the top 10 travel SIMs for Europe in 2023 to make things easier for you in planning your trip.

Best Travel Sims for Europe

Orange holiday europe.

The Orange Holiday Europe SIM card is a great choice for people who need to stay in touch while traveling in more than one country. The SIM card is good for 14 days and can be used in over 30 countries. It comes with 20GB of data and 120 minutes of calls in Europe. You can buy the SIM card online or in a store, and it will work as soon as you turn it on.

It is available in both E-Sim and Physical SIM option so you can plan and buy this before travelling and activate. Below graphics would explain more about the feature of Orange in brief.

Orange Holiday Zen

The Orange Zen SIM Card & eSIM is a plug-and-play prepaid SIM card that offers 8GB of 3G/4G/LTE internet speed in 30 European countries, 30 minutes of worldwide calls, and 200 worldwide SMS from Europe. What sets this SIM card apart from others is that it includes worldwide calls in the package, making it a perfect choice for travelers who need to stay in touch with their loved ones back home.

O2 Go Card E-SIM

O2 Czech Republic’s Go Karta SIM Card offers 10GB of data and 30 days validity for just US$24.90, making it a great option for those visiting Europe .

With this SIM card, you can stay in touch with friends and family back home by sharing your experiences and photos with them. Plus, you’ll have 10GB of data to help you find your way around, whether you need to navigate a new city, find a train, or locate a restaurant.

Roaming in Europe is included with the O2 Go Karta, which means that you won’t need to activate or arrange anything else. You can travel to Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, the United Kingdom, and even San Marino and the Vatican without worrying about additional fees or charges.

With this SIM card, you’ll also get free calls within the O2 network throughout Europe. And, with your first top-up, you’ll receive an additional US$2 worth of credit, as well as US$4 worth of credit for your next top-up.

Whether you’re traveling for business or pleasure, the O2 Go Karta SIM card is a great way to stay connected and make the most of your trip to Europe.

Bouygues Telecom my European SIM

The my European SIM from Bouygues Telecom is a fantastic option for those who plan to travel to France and Europe. This plug & play prepaid SIM Card provides an impressive 30GB of 3G/ 4G/ LTE data within France and Europe, along with unlimited calls and SMS within Europe. The credit is valid for 30 days from the first time data is used, a call is made, or an SMS is sent, making it a great choice for a short-term stay in Europe.

One important thing to keep in mind is that the SIM Card needs to be activated in France before you can use it in the rest of Europe. Additionally, the package includes some exciting perks, such as a SIM ejector in the shape of the Eiffel Tower, a map of the Paris metro, souvenir stickers of France, and a free tourist guide, which can add a touch of fun to your travel experience.

When it comes to coverage, the my European SIM has a vast coverage area, including many popular travel destinations in Europe such as Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, and more. However, it’s worth noting that the SIM Card doesn’t cover some countries like Turkey or Switzerland, so it’s essential to check the coverage before you plan your travels.

Overall, the my European SIM from Bouygues Telecom is a great option for those who want to stay connected and enjoy high-speed data, calls, and SMS during their travel to France and Europe. With its fantastic data package, free tourist guide, and fun souvenirs, it can make your European travels even more memorable.

Lycamobile Europe Plus

Lycamobile is a well-known phone company in Europe, and their Europe Plus SIM card is a great choice for people who are traveling. This SIM card is good for 30 days and can be used in over 20 countries. It has 15GB of data, can send and receive unlimited texts, and can be used to make 1000 minutes of calls within Europe. You can buy the SIM card online or in a store, and it will work as soon as you turn it on.

Smart Comfort X E-sim

This is a data only plan E-Sim which gives you 5 GB data for period of 30 days at the cost of 17 €. It is good options because it covers all the major countries which you may want to explore in Europe like Italy, Hungary, Finland, Germany and so on.

Google Fi is a great choice for travelers in Europe who want to stay in touch. With Google Fi, you can use your phone the same way you do at home, without worrying about international roaming fees. The service works in more than 200 countries, including most of Europe, through a combination of cellular and Wi-Fi networks. Plans start at just $20 per month, and you can pay extra for data plans.

Keepgo has a variety of travel SIM cards that are great for people going to Europe. With the European SIM card, you’ll be able to use your phone just like you do at home, with unlimited data and texting as well as low calling rates. Plans start at just $8.99 per day, and longer trips can save you money.

Airalo is a fantastic option for travelers looking for an affordable and convenient way to stay connected while exploring Europe in 2023. As a global eSIM provider, Airalo offers a range of affordable data packages that allow you to use your smartphone or other device to stay connected to the internet and make calls and send texts from anywhere in Europe. With Airalo, there’s no need to worry about finding a local SIM card or dealing with high roaming fees. Simply download the Airalo app, choose your data package, and start exploring Europe with ease. Whether you’re planning to travel for business or pleasure, Airalo is a great choice for staying connected and enjoying all that Europe has to offer.

In conclusion, traveling to Europe in 2023 can be an exciting and enriching experience, but staying connected can be a challenge. Luckily, there are several travel sims available that offer affordable and convenient options for staying connected while on the go.

These travel sims allow you to access the internet, make calls, and send texts from anywhere in Europe without worrying about high roaming fees. Whether you’re traveling for business or pleasure, having a reliable way to stay connected can make all the difference. So, whether you choose Airalo or one of the other great travel sims available, be sure to stay connected and make the most of your European adventure.

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Sankalp Singh is the Founder and Author of Chasing Whereabouts. He is passionate about travel, photography, and food. He has travelled across Europe extensively to experience its quirks, culture, and diversity. He is a self-taught traveller and he has been exploring the world since the age of 25. When he is not travelling, you can find him at work being a Software Engineer in 9-5 Job.

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• Works in over 200 countries, with a single card & phone number. (And get your card FAST with express delivery).

Find your SIM Card number on the back of the product package or if you no longer have the product package, you can also find the SIM Card phone number from the plastic card .

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Unlimited USA calls voice package includes unlimited calls from USA to USA and European Union numbers. It does not include calls to voicemail and other TravelSim numbers. You can make unlimited calls from USA to following countries: USA, Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech.Rep., Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Gibraltar, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, St. Barthelemy / St. Martin Island, Sweden, United Kingdom.

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• South Africa
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• Russian Federation
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• Turkmenistan
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Buying a Sim Card for Russia at Moscow Airport in 2024

Flying to Moscow Airport Sheremetyevo soon? Avoid on high roaming costs and buy a sim card for Russia on arrival at Moscow Airport or get yourself an e-sim card for Russia. Prepaid sim cards in Russia come with a lot of data and are cheap, but language barriers are real! E-sim cards are easier, but a couple dollar more expensive.

In this guide you can read everything you need to know before buying a sim card for Russia at Moscow Airport, where to buy a sim card, up to date prices as per January 2024, my recommendation and even info about international and e-sim cards for Russia.

Staying connected is the first thing I do when I get to a new country. These days I mostly order an e-sim card online because it is so easy, but buying a local prepaid sim card is sometimes a better option.

I love to document all my travel tips for other travelers and since  I am also aiming to travel to every country in the world you can already find more than 200 sim card guides on Traveltomtom from all around the world: Europe ,  Dubai , Saudi Arabia , Pakistan , Nairobi , Johannesburg , London , Paris ,  New York , Toronto , Dominican Republic , Bogota , Panama City , Mexico City , Singapore , Hong Kong , Vietnam , Uzbekistan , Philippines , Turkey  and many more.

So next time you are planning your adventure abroad come check out Traveltomtom for the latest prepaid and e-sim card advice for your next holiday destination. Bookmark me!

Buying a prepaid sim card for Russia is actually really affordable! Great value for money. When I discovered this it definitely made me smile. Who does not love cheap data?

My recommendation

Traveltomtom recommends buying a Megfon prepaid sim card at Moscow Airport for traveling in Russia. Megafon has a great prepaid sim card deal for tourists: 30 GB data + free social media for just $6 USD.

Be prepared that pretty much no one speaks English at Moscow International Airport so buying a prepaid sim card can be a hassle.

Therefore Traveltomtom definitely recommends e-sim cards for traveling to Russia. As soon as the plane lands you are online. However, there are not many e-sim cards for Russia available on the internet. SimOptions is the only e-sim provider that sells e-sim cards for Russia .

you may also like...

You can also look into buying an international sim card for traveling in 2024 . Again here, SimOptions is the only provider that still offers physical prepaid sim cards for traveling to Russia.

Need some travel inspiration for Russia? Check out my  trip to Altai Mountains ! Absolutely amazing.

Best e-sim cards for Russia

The easiest way to stay connected when traveling to Russia in 2024 is an e-sim card.

You order an e-sim card for your trip to Moscow on the internet, you receive a QR code, scan it, follow the simple steps and within less than 2 minutes you have a Russia e-sim card installed on your phone.

Upon arrival in Moscow it automatically connects you to an available network and you enjoy data on your phone pretty much when the plane lands.

Airalo has recently stopped supplying e-sim cards for Russia until further notice! As of January 2024 Airalo e-sim cards for Russia are still not available.

• 1 GB data for 7 days = $5 USD
• 2 GB data for 15 days = $9 USD
• 3 GB data for 30 days = $11.5 USD
• 5 GB data for 30 days = $17 USD
• 10 GB data for 30 days = $29 USD
• 20 GB data for 30 days = $48 USD

Click here to directly order any of the above e-sim cards for Russia online or get more info.

SimOptions is currently the only e-sim provider that sells e-sim cards for Russia. Traveltomtom has used SimOptions in more than 50 countries around the world without any problems.

• 1 GB data for 7 days = $7.90 USD
• 3 GB data for 15 days = $14.90 USD
• 5 GB data for 15 days = $19.90 USD
• 10 GB data for 30 days = $34.90 USD
• 20 GB data for 30 days = $64.90 USD

Click here for more info or to order an e-sim card for Russia via SimOptions .

Make sure your phone is e-sim compatible before ordering an e-sim card for Russia.

You can also order a physical prepaid sim card for traveling in Russia online and get it shipped to your home address before your trip. Click on the link to get an international data sim card for Russia with 10 GB data for $49.90 USD and get more info and see all the sim card deals.

Arriving at Moscow Airport SVO

First off this airport is spread out with 6 terminals and traveling in and between the terminals takes time. There are trains that connect the terminals so if you are in transit don’t worry the transportation system is pretty well organized. But hey we are in Russia, be prepared to struggle with languages barriers.

You may think at an international airport with this status there would be a ton of people speaking English, but forget about it. Welcome to Russia!

The ladies at the information desk all spoke good English and were very helpful. A tip for when you visit Moscow, download a translate app this will make traveling in Russia much easier.

To use most translate apps that use the dictation function you need a working internet connection. Sheremetyevo Airport has very easy access to good and free WiFi but as soon as you leave the airport you would wish you had a prepaid sim card for Russia with data. So no need to explain you anymore why you should buy a Russia sim card on arrival.

Aeroexpress SVO Airport

In and between Terminal D and E there is the Aeroexpress train station, the most convenient way to get from Sheremetyevo Airport to Moscow city. Just before you enter the train station there are many mobile phone shops where they sell prepaid Russian sim card for tourists.

Mobile internet operators in Russia

The main mobile internet operators in Russia are: Tele2, Beeline, MegaFon, MTS and Yota. Apart from Yota and MTS you can buy a Russia sim card from any of the operators at Moscow Airport.

Yota is a fairly small operator with a weak 4G network in Russia and is not recommended for tourists. But especially for an MTS prepaid sim card it is a pity they don't sell them at Moscow Airport. MTS has the strongest 4G network in Russia and is the only provider that offers 5G in Russia.

Where to buy a sim card at Moscow Airport

As I said the airport is pretty big and it more or less comes down to which terminal you arrive. Most travelers from Europe will arrive at Terminal B or D so let’s have a look at buying a Russian sim card there first.

If you are about to visit Moscow then I recommend you to go to the city by Aeroexpress, a convenient train that connects Sheremetyevo Airport to Moscow city. It is located between Terminal B and D. Just before you enter the train station there are many shops lined up where you can buy Russia sim cards for tourists as well.

At Terminal F there are also shops in the arrival hall where you can buy a prepaid Russia sim card.

Buying a sim card at SVO Terminal B

Arriving at Terminal B at SVO airport makes things easy for you as there is no choice. The only available sim card for Russia is Beeline. It is impossible to miss the Beeline shop as it is straight in front of you when you walk out of arrivals.

Prepaid sim card Beeline

The picture is hard to read when you don’t speak Russian. Neither do I so I had the guy selling the Beeline sim Russia sim card explain me in his best English what everything means.

600 Rubles = $9

• 15 GB - 4G internet
• 500 minutes calling in and to Russia
• Valid for 30 days

Total costs for this package is only around $9, that is only $0,60 per GB data. I told you Russian sim cards are cheap! When arriving at Terminal B buying a Beeline sim card for Russia is worth it.

Buying a sim card at SVO Terminal D

At Moscow SVO Airport Terminal D there are two options for you. In the arrivals hall on level 1 there is TELE2 and at the departures hall level 3 you can buy a Megafon sim card.

Prices and info below are updated in January 2024. Prices are in Russian Ruble: $1 USD  = 88.5 RUB and 100 RUB = $1.13 USD.

Megafon Russia prepaid sim card

Let me tell you if it is worth going up two levels to the Megafon kiosk to buy your Russia sim here.

I went there twice as a week later I wanted to double check the information what I wrote down and both ladies spoke very little English. Service level for English speaking tourists is zero at Moscow Airport so be prepared. I used a translate app to get the following info.

There are two Megafon sim cards for tourists available:

• 20 GB + 750 minutes + unlimited texting - valid for 1 month =  750 Rubles - $8.5 USD
• 30 GB + 1,500 minutes + unlimited texting - valid for 1 month =  1,000 Rubles - $11 USD

Both packages are really great value for money!

TELE2 Russia prepaid sim card

Depending on which exit you take from the luggage belts you will either walk up to the TELE2 shop or it is on your left in the arrivals hall. At the small shop two young employees were very helpful and explained the available TELE2 sim cards fro tourists in Russia.

TELE2 Russia offers the following sim cards for tourists:

600 Rubles (400 + 200 activation costs) = $7 USD

• Unlimited calls to TELE2  numbers in Russia
• Free Facebook, VKontakte, Viber, Whatsapp
• 1 month valid

900 Rubles (700 + 200 activation costs) = $10 USD

• 30 GB - 4G internet
• 800 minutes calling in and to Russia

Looking at these Russian prepaid sim card packages I am impressed by the value for money of TELE2. Since I never really call and text anyway, a TELE2 sim card for Russia was a perfect match.

Beeline Russia prepaid sim card

There is a Beeline shop that sells the following package:

500 Rubles = $6

• Unlimited internet - 4G network
• No hotspot available
• 14 days valid
• 30 Rubles per day extra, top up credit can be bought everywhere

There is also a shop called EBPOCETb where they sell Megafon sim cards and Beeline sim cards. The guy in the shop recommended me to buy a Megafon sim card instead of Beeline. Scroll down to see 4G network coverage maps for Russia.

Buying a sim card at SVO Terminal F

In the end I headed to Terminal E and F to find the perfect Russia sim card for tourists. At Terminal E there is NO shop that sells prepaid sim cards for Russia, but in Terminal F there was a Megafon kiosk again.

Megafon sim card Russia at SVO Terminal F

Of course here they sold the same sim cards for tourists as they did at the Terminal D, but to my surprise they also sold a specific tourist package.

Megafon tourist sim card Russia

• 30 GB data + 1500 minutes + unlimited social media - valid for 15 days =  500 Ruble - $6 USD

WOW! Looking at the above I am sure you are stunned too! Free social media and on top of that 30 GB data just for $6 USD. I asked if there would be any activation costs, but nope you pay just the 500 Rubles.

For tourists traveling to Russia for less than 2 weeks this for sure is the best Russia prepaid sim card you can find at Sheremetyevo Airport. The Megafon shop is open from 09.00 to 21.00 daily and is next to the meeting point at Terminal F.

Best 4G/5G mobile network in Russia in 2024

Let’s quickly have a look at the mobile providers in Russia selling sim cards at Moscow Airport to determine who has the best 4G/5G network in Russia. For more detailed maps of the 4G/5G network coverage  in Russia have a look at the link and you can zoom in to the region in Russia you will be traveling.

Is there 5G in Russia?

No, there is still no proper 5G network in Russia in 2024. Only in the city center of Moscow there is a small 5G network available when you are having an MTS sim card. Unfortunately they don't sell MTS sim cards at Moscow Airport. If you want an MTS 5G sim card you have to go to an MTS store in Moscow city center.

Beeline  4G/5G network coverage map

TELE2 4G/5G network coverage map

Megafon 4G/5G network coverage map

Looking at the mobile internet coverage maps for Russia you can see that as of 2024 the 4G/LTE network coverage is pretty similar for each provider. However, Megafon is slightly more extensive than Beeline and Tele2 and therefore is rated as the best 4G/LTE network in Russia in 2024. 

I expect Russia to start rolling out 5G soon, but unfortunately it is hard to go through the Russian news on the internet as I do NOT speak a word Russian! ;)

Order a prepaid sim card for Russia online

With such cheap prepaid sim cards on arrival at Moscow Airport I would not directly recommend buying an international sim card for Russia. However, it makes you forget about all the hassle buying a sim card on arrival since barely anyone even speaks English.

If your phone is not e-sim compatible then look into the following if you want to order a prepaid sim card for Russia on the internet.

Arrive prepared in Russia with an international prepaid sim card. You order them online and a physical prepaid sim card will be delivered to your home address. You put this sim card in your phone and it automatically connects to an available network upon arrival in Russia, basically when the plane lands you are instantly online.

SimOptions is the only sim card provider that sells physical prepaid sim cards for Russia:

• 10 GB data for 14 days = $49.90 USD

Click here for more info or to order an international sim card for Russia via SimOptions .

Also a last reminder that if your phone is e-sim compatible you can order an e-sim card for Russia online .

My experience buying a Russia Sim Card at Moscow Airport

I decided to buy a TELE2 sim card for traveling in Russia and spent $9 USD on the smallest prepaid sim package. I went on a trip to the Altai Mountains in Siberia and to my surprise I could not only use the network of TELE2, but also the Megafon network. No clue why but it worked smooth.

Another reason why I would recommend you to buy a Megafon or TELE2 prepaid sim card for Russia at Moscow Airport.

A working network connection in Russia is as you can imagine a challenge in the worlds biggest country. But overall if I had a signal the 4G speed was good, especially in cities. On the road in Siberia I mostly just had a 3G signal, which worked fine.

More about my road trip in Altai, Siberia , check out my blog about this undiscovered region in Russia!

I hope this blog about prepaid sim cards in Russia on arrival at Moscow Airport was helpful for you if you have a question please leave me a comment.

Curious what it looks like trying to visit every country in the world ? Go check out my Instagram account @traveltomtom and follow along. As of January 2024 I have visited more than 155 countries, so still a long way to go.

      View this post on Instagram       A post shared by Adventure Traveler & Blogger (@traveltomtom)

Enjoy your trip to Russia!

Some links in this article about buying a sim card at Moscow Airport are affiliate links. If you buy any of the products after using an affiliate link I will earn a small commission. This is at absolutely no extra cost to you!

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Buy Your Europe SIM Cards In Australia - Best Prepaid Sim For Travel

Don't let international roaming fees ruin your trip! Discover the best SIM for Europe designed specifically for tourists. Your #1 source for European SIM cards. Stay seamlessly connected while traveling without the burden of hefty international roaming fees.

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6GB of Data

Unlimited Minutes  within the EU and UK

Not included

28 days service from activation.

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Unlimited Minutes  within  Europe &   UK

Unlimited SMS  within  Europe &   UK

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• Unlimited Minutes  to standard to EU & UK landlines and mobiles
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Prepaid Travel SIM cards for Europe with data for Aussie Tourists

Europe is known for its fascinating history, stunning architecture and diverse cultures and languages. It is perhaps the world’s most visited region, drawing tourists from across the globe to experience everything from Italian cuisine to Spanish flamenco. With so many fantastic countries on our doorstep, it would be a shame to not make the most of them whilst on your European holiday. Two of the biggest problems Australian tourists face when visiting Europe are crippling roaming charges and whether the sim will work in multiple countries, which can often leave a bitter taste in the mouths of previously enthusiastic holiday-goers. We at SimCorner are therefore proud to offer a solution - our range of UK and Europe travel SIM cards.

How do Travel SIM cards for Europe work?

Our European SIM Cards work like any other SIM card, and are available in standard, micro and nano versions. The Europe Phone SIMs can only be used in mobile phones, whilst our Europe Data Only SIMs can be used in a number of devices, including mobile phones, tablets and dongles. Simply place the SIM card into the device and the SIM will already be ready to work. Your plan will begin from the arrival date you provide, so ensure that this date is as close to your trip as possible. Our Europe travel SIM cards also work in the UK.

How to buy Travel SIM cards for Europe in Australia?

If you’re looking for the best SIM cards for Europe in Australia, you’ll find them at SimCorner - locally owned and operated in Australia! SIM cards can be bought from other various providers, both online or in-store. However,  these SIM cards are often more than retail price or what we charge for the same bundle or require the payee to sign at least a year-long contract,  which is not ideal for people looking to stay only for 30 days or few months. There are also various pay-as-you-go options, but the cost of these can quickly add up.

Sim Corner's Europe SIM Card Collection

Our assortment of Europe SIM cards has been designed to offer the flexibility, data capabilities, and country coverage for your European adventures. W e have noted our best prepaid plans for Australian travellers below.

#1 Customers Choice - Best All -rounder Europe SIM

1.  bouygues telecom europe esim - 30 gb prepaid  or  europe sim card - 30gb.

SimCorner's top pick for Europe in 2024 is the Bouygues Telecom prepaid eSIM & SIM card. It gives you 30 GB of data across the EU, including the UK, Norway, and Iceland. Unlimited calls and texts are included, best of all, you get € 25 credits included for international calls and texts to international numbers. and it activates as soon as you connect to a supported network in Europe.  It's an ideal choice for travellers looking to strike the perfect balance between connectivity and exploration, a llowing you to surf the web, stream your favourite shows, and stay active on social media.

Best Data Only  Europe SIM  

2.  data sim card for europe & uk  - 200gb  or  europe travel sim card - 500gb.

If you’re always stuck to your phone and need a Data plan that caters to your digital needs, take a look at  our  200GB or 500GB offers!  Whether you're on a working holiday, traveling with a group, or simply a data enthusiast, this SIM card ensures you'll never run out of data during your Europe/UK adventures.  Enjoy entertainment wherever you go. Stream, browse, and stay updated without worrying about running out of data. It’s also a great option for family trips, as it allows mobile hotspots. As a parent, this could mean the perfect opportunity to control your kids’ data usages easily.

3.  Europe UK SIM Card - 12GB  - 

If you plan to only use a moderate amount of 4G data, texts and minutes while you’re away, why not look at our 12GB SIM Card option, which comes with Unlimited minutes and SMS within the EU and UK. You’ll be able to take in Paris or Rome in all its beauty and share any photos you may have while you’re away with friends and family back home. As an added bonus, The 12GB data can also be used in other countries such as Hong Kong, Indonesia, Macau, Singapore, Sri Lanka, Vietnam, Brazil, Chile, Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Panama, Peru, Puerto Rico, Nicaragua and Uruguay. With this card, you get 12GB of data—enough to download all your Spotify playlists in time for flights, as well as check up on your socials daily without having to worry. Perfect if you’re taking a cross-continent trip!

4.  Europe UK Travel SIM Card - 6GB

If you're on a tight budget, this 28-Day 6GB Sim Card for Europe SIM card is your perfect companion. Usable in 45 countries, this Sim Card includes calls to European and UK numbers and high speed Data.  Whether you're sightseeing in Barcelona or hiking in the Scottish Highlands, this SIM ensures you're connected for less. The sim comes with a Spain based phone number.

5.  Europe & UK Data SIM Card - 22GB

Need more  data for browsing and staying connected? This SIM card offers a substantial 22GB of mobile data power. It's an ideal choice for travellers who primarily require data, whether for work, streaming, or staying active on social media. This Sim covers all of EU & UK and other countries not covered by some of the other options such as  Switzerland, Turkey, Vatican, Kosovo, Monaco.  This SIM is for those with no one to call or text in Europe on their holiday, or those who want to stay connected via a non-smartphone device, e.g. an iPad, internet dongle or MiFi device. 

Get the Right European SIM Card for you

All of our SIM options for Europe allow you the opportunity to stay connected with family and friends on holiday. They come in three sizes to fit any phone—from the basic brick to the smartest of iPhones. It always pays to check any specifications before deciding what SIM is right for you, and we hope this has helped.

Why use a Europe travel SIM card when travelling?

No matter where you’re heading - France , Spain , Poland , Switzerland , Sweden , Greece , or Germany - you’ll want to prepare for your journey with a SIM card to help you stay in touch as you roam across Europe. Our Europe SIM card allows you to update your socials with the latest snaps, video call someone you’re missing while on the go, or navigate the streets with maps on your phone. You’ll never have to worry about finding free Wi-Fi again: our prepaid SIMs are a safe and convenient travel essential you can’t go without.

What makes SimCorner your best choice for a Europe phone SIM card?

If you’re wondering why SimCorner has the best SIM card for Europe travel, read the benefits below:

• Data SIM card options to suit your travel needs
• Budget friendly
• 3-in-1 SIM card (will fit any phone)
• No roaming charges or hidden costs
• Easy to use, and no registration required
• Great coverage and compatibility with standard landlines and mobile numbers
• Hotspot and tethering allowed
• No incoming call charges from any country
• Fast shipping to your door
• Tried and tested by thousands of happy Australian tourists
• Price Beat Guarantee

If you like more information use the contact us link above to get in touch with us, and get your travel SIM today! We also sell a range of travel accessories and journals , so while you’re preparing for your trip, add on some essentials for your European escape.

At SimCorner, our European SIM Cards work like any other SIM card, and are available in standard, micro and nano versions. The Europe Phone SIMs can only be used in mobile phones, whilst our Europe Data Only SIMs can be used in a number of devices, including mobile phones, tablets and dongles. Simply place the SIM card into the device and the SIM will already be ready to work. Your plan will begin from the arrival date you provide, so ensure that this date is as close to your trip as possible. Our Europe travel SIM cards also work in the UK.

How to buy Travel SIM cards for Europe in Australia?

If you’re looking for the best SIM cards for Europe in Australia, you’ll find them at SimCorner - locally owned and operated in Australia! SIM cards can be bought from other various providers, both online or in-store. However,  these SIM cards are often more than retail price or what we charge for the same bundle or require the payee to sign at least a year-long contract,  which is not ideal for people looking to stay only for 30 days or few months. There are also various pay-as-you-go options, but the cost of these can quickly add up.

How can I choose the right Europe SIM card for my needs?

You can explore SimCorner's Europe SIM card collection, each designed to cater to specific data preferences. Whether you need 12GB or a massive 500GB of data, we have options to suit your travel plans.

Can I use a Europe SIM card for data-intensive activities?

Absolutely! SimCorner also sells Europe SIM card options that come high data allowances such as 200GB or even a whopping 500GB! perfect for streaming, video calls, and staying active on social media.

What phones are compatible with the Europe SIM card?

Most Australian unlocked mobile phones and devices are compatible with the Europe sim cards.

In which countries can you use our Europe mobile SIM card?

Our Europe SIM cards can be used throughout the European Union & UK and some sim cards can also work in other Europe countries like Switzerland or Turkey. Take it with you whether you’re going to destinations like Italy, France, Germany, Spain, or Latvia. Browse our full list of countries above. You can shop by country or if you’re planning to go to several places, you can also get a Europe prepaid SIM card that covers all areas.  

Is it easy to activate and use the SIM?

Yes, our SIM cards are super easy to use. All you have to do is place your SIM card in your device, and it’s good to go. You will have chosen the date in which you would like the plan to start, so you will be able to start using your SIM from then.

What network is the Europe travel SIM compatible with?

Our Europe SIM card for tourists is compatible with standard European and UK landlines and phone numbers

How long is the validity of SimCorner Europe SIM cards

The validity of SimCorner Europe SIM cards varies depending on the specific card you choose. Please refer to the product details on our website for information on the validity period of each SIM card.

Who is SimCorner?

SimCorner is a leading provider of Europe SIM cards, offering a range of options to keep you connected during your European travels.

What should I do if I need assistance with my Europe SIM card from SimCorner?

If you require assistance with your Europe SIM card purchased from SimCorner, our dedicated customer support team is ready to help. You can reach out to us through the contact us link above or menu tab (if you access our website on your mobile) , and we'll be happy to assist you.

• Choosing a selection results in a full page refresh.
• Press the space key then arrow keys to make a selection.

Best Europe SIM Card in 2024

Planning a trip to Europe in 2024 and wondering what the best way is to stay connected? Don’t get stuck with high roaming fees or slow overseas data speeds! The smart solution is to get a Europe SIM card for your travels.

In this ultimate guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about finding the best European SIM card in 2024, including:

• Where to buy Europe SIM cards (online or in person)
• Prepaid SIM cards vs eSIMs for Europe
• The top Europe SIM card options with detailed pricing and specs
• Tips for setting up and using your Europe SIM card
• How to avoid common pitfalls and get the most value

Whether you need a physical prepaid SIM or a virtual eSIM, this article has all the info you need to get the best SIM card for traveling in Europe.

Why Get a Europe SIM Card?

Do you really need to buy a SIM card for your Europe trip? After all, most hotels, cafes, trains and public spaces offer free WiFi these days. You could try to just rely on public hotspots to stay connected.

However, there are several big advantages to having your own Europe SIM card and mobile data connection:

• Convenience and flexibility  – With your own SIM, you have 24/7 internet access no matter where you are. No need to frantically search for WiFi every time you need to check a map, look up a restaurant, book a train or call an Uber.
• Faster speeds  – Public WiFi networks are often congested and slow, especially in high-traffic areas like airports and city centers. With a 4G/5G Europe SIM card, you’ll enjoy much faster data speeds for smooth browsing, app use and photo sharing.
• More security and privacy  – Connecting to public WiFi always carries some risks, as the networks are unsecured and your data could potentially be exposed to others. It’s much safer to use your own private cellular data connection.
• Affordable rates  – Relying on your home carrier’s international roaming plan can get very expensive very quickly. Buying a local or regional Europe SIM card gives you generous data allowances at a fraction of the roaming costs.
• Voice calling and texting  – In addition to data, most Europe SIM cards also come with affordable talk and text rates for communicating within Europe and even internationally. Pay-as-you-go credit is easy to add too.

As you can see, it’s well worth the small upfront cost and effort to get your own Europe SIM card. It will make your travels a lot easier and keep you reliably connected throughout your trip.

Where to Buy a SIM Card for Europe

Luckily, buying a Europe SIM card is a quick and straightforward process. You have a few different options of where and when to purchase your SIM:

Buying Online Before You Go

The most convenient option is to order your Europe SIM card online before your trip. This way it will be ready to use from the moment you land. No wasting time hunting down a store or waiting in line.

Several international telecom providers offer prepaid Europe SIM cards that will be shipped to your home ahead of your departure date. The package will include the SIM card itself, detailed setup instructions, and usually some bonus perks like a free UK/EU number or discounted calling rates.

Buying your SIM online in advance is especially handy if you’re landing late at night, on a weekend, or in a small airport where shops may have limited hours. You can hit the ground running and already be connected.

Recommended online Europe SIM retailers include:

Orange Holiday Europe

Bouygues telecom, buying on arrival in europe.

Alternatively, if you prefer to buy your Europe SIM card in person, you can easily pick one up once you arrive in Europe. However, you’ll need to budget some extra time for this and be prepared to possibly wait in line.

Most major European airports have multiple mobile carrier shops and kiosks where you can purchase prepaid SIM cards. Look for stores from providers like Vodafone, Orange, Three, TIM, Telekom, etc. The staff will help you select a suitable prepaid package, install the SIM and set up your service. Just be aware that airport locations tend to charge higher prices than other stores.

It’s also possible to buy Europe SIM cards at mobile carrier shops in city centers, as well as electronics stores, supermarkets and convenience stores. Brands like Lebara specialize in affordable international SIM cards and have extensive retail networks. Just be sure to bring your passport for registration.

Best Europe SIM Card Options

Now that you know how to buy a Europe SIM card, let’s look at some of the best options currently on the market for 2024 travel:

The Orange Holiday Europe SIM is our top overall pick for the best value Europe SIM card. Some key features:

• Valid for 14 days
• Unlimited calls and texts within Europe
• 2 hours global calling
• 1000 global texts
• Available as physical SIM or eSIM
• Covers 30+ European countries
• Price: $49.90

If you need more data and a longer validity, Orange also offers the Holiday Europe eSIM XXL with a whopping 50 GB for 28 days. It’s a bit pricier at $59.90 but can be worthwhile for longer trips or heavy data use.

The Bouygues My European SIM is a great choice for a month-long Europe trip. You get:

• 30 days validity
• 4G LTE speeds
• Unlimited voice and texts in Europe
• €25 credit for global calls
• Free EU roaming in 30+ countries
• Choice of physical SIM or eSIM
• Price: $44.90

One potential downside is that service can only be activated once you arrive in Europe. But otherwise, this is a very economical option with tons of data to keep you going for a full month abroad.

KnowRoaming

The KnowRoaming Global eSIM offers a unique “unlimited” data package for Europe. Specifications:

• Unlimited data
• Throttled speeds after 5GB daily use
• Covers 44 European countries
• eSIM only (no physical SIM)
• Price: $59.99

While the promise of unlimited data is alluring, note that speeds will slow down substantially if you use over 5GB per day. Still, this could be a good fit for very heavy data users who want peace of mind.

KnowRoaming also sells country-specific Europe eSIMs if you’ll just be visiting 1-2 destinations and don’t need broad regional coverage. Plans start at just $4.99.

The Three UK Pay As You Go SIM offers affordable short-term connectivity. You get:

• 3G/4G/5G speeds
• Choice of regular, micro, or nano SIM sizes
• Covers 48 European countries
• Price: $24.90

This is a great budget-friendly option if you just need a basic data package for a quick trip. Pair it with an eSIM for longer journeys.

Airalo is a popular eSIM store that carries a variety of regional plans for Europe. Their Eurolink eSIMs come in several sizes:

• 1 GB data for 7 days – $5
• 3 GB data for 30 days – $13
• 5 GB data for 30 days – $18
• 10 GB data for 30 days – $28
• 20 GB data for 30 days – $40
• 50 GB data for 90 days – $90
• 100 GB data for 180 days – $185

All plans include coverage of 39 European countries and are data-only (no calls or texts). Activation is instant upon purchase. With this many choices, there’s a size and duration to fit any type of Europe trip.

KeepGo is another leading international eSIM provider with Europe data plans. Their Europe eSIM offerings include:

• 1GB data for 30 days – $13
• 3GB data for 30 days – $26
• 5GB data for 30 days – $44
• 10GB data for 30 days – $85

KeepGo’s plans are a bit pricier than Airalo’s but still provide good value, especially for shorter trips. Data is valid in 35 European countries.

Tips for Using Your Europe SIM Card

Once you’ve got your new Europe SIM card in hand, there are a few things to keep in mind to get the most out of it during your travels:

• Check compatibility  – Most newer smartphones (iPhone XS and later, Samsung Galaxy S20 series and later, Google Pixel 3 and later) are eSIM compatible. But if you have an older device, you’ll need to use a physical SIM card. Also ensure your device is unlocked before attempting to switch SIMs.
• Enable data roaming  – In your phone settings, make sure data roaming is turned on to access cellular networks abroad. You may also need to select your new SIM as the primary cellular data line.
• Manage your usage  – While your Europe SIM likely comes with a generous data allowance, it’s still smart to keep tabs on your usage via your carrier’s app or by dialing a balance check code. Overage fees can add up fast.
• Download offline maps and entertainment  – To stretch your data even further, take advantage of offline apps and downloads. For example, download Google Maps offline maps of the cities you’re visiting, and pre-download music playlists, Netflix shows, etc before leaving WiFi.
• Use WiFi calling when possible  – Most carriers offer WiFi calling, meaning you can make and receive calls and texts over WiFi without using your plan’s minutes or texts. Take advantage of this feature in hotels, Airbnbs and other places with good WiFi to save your allowances.
• Avoid streaming and big downloads  – Watching videos and downloading large files will quickly eat through even ‘unlimited’ data plans. Stick to basic web browsing, messaging, maps and light social media to keep your data usage in check.
• Save your old SIM  – Don’t throw away your regular SIM card when you remove it to use your Europe SIM! Keep it somewhere safe so you can pop it back in when you return home. A small plastic case or ziplock bag works well.

Get a Europe SIM Card for Smooth Travels

Having reliable connectivity makes traveling around Europe so much easier and less stressful. Picking up a Europe SIM card is an affordable way to equip your phone with plenty of data for maps, translation, booking trains and hotels, staying in touch and sharing your trip pics.

As this article has shown, buying the best SIM card for Europe in 2024 is a simple process, thanks to the many online and in-person purchase options. Whether you opt for a prepaid physical SIM or a convenient eSIM, you’ll be able to stay connected at affordable rates anywhere your European adventures take you.

Don’t let expensive roaming charges or patchy WiFi ruin your dream Europe trip – grab one of these top Europe SIM cards and enjoy seamless connectivity on the go!

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