[Review] Best 5 European SIM Cards - A Detailed Guide to Buying Travel SIMs for Europe

Why should you buy a European travel SIM before your trip?

A European SIM card is a travel SIM designed for short or long trips to the "Old Continent." While using this type of SIM is straightforward, understanding its necessity, connection process, and usage details is crucial. Beyond staying connected, a 4G European SIM acts as a lifesaver for travelers by enabling them to:

• Access essential information.
• Use social media, check in, livestream, and more.
• Communicate across languages with translation apps.
• Navigate with route-finding applications.
• Enjoy various entertainment apps.

What should you know before buying a European SIM card for your trip?

European SIM cards typically work in around 40 countries, with each SIM offering pre-included data, call minutes, or free SMS messages depending on the type.

What types of European SIM cards are available?

Generally, 4G European SIM cards vary widely in data allowances and pricing, with validity periods ranging from 5 to 30 days and data limits spanning from 500MB/day to 3GB/day.

By type

SIM cards are divided into two main types: physical SIMs (traditional SIM cards) and eSIMs (electronic SIMs), where:

• Physical European SIM: A traditional SIM card that is inserted into the phone's SIM tray. This type is simple, easy to use, and compatible with all devices. However, removing the original SIM to insert the European travel SIM can sometimes lead to losing or misplacing the SIM.
• European eSIM: An electronic SIM installed directly into the device, eliminating the need for physical swapping and ensuring the safety of the original SIM. However, your device must support eSIM functionality to use this option.

What types of SIM cards are available for traveling to Europe?

By functionality

Functionally, SIM cards are categorized into three types based on data allowances, call rates, and multi-functional options that combine both calling and internet access.

• Data-only SIM: This type provides internet access without calling features, making it ideal for users who primarily need to browse the web or use apps.
• Call-only SIM: Focused on international calling, this SIM doesn’t include data and is perfect for travelers who need reliable communication without heavy internet usage or who rely on Wi-Fi for apps.
• Multi-functional SIM: Offers both calling and data services, catering to users with diverse needs. Naturally, the cost for this integrated option is typically higher.

By coverage area

In terms of coverage, SIM cards are designed for use in either a single country or multiple countries, as follows:

• Single-country SIM: Ideal for travelers planning to stay in only one European country.
• Regional European SIM: A popular choice for international travelers visiting multiple countries within specific areas, such as Western or Northern Europe. This SIM works across selected countries or regions.
• Global SIM: A versatile option usable in numerous European and worldwide countries, perfect for frequent travelers.

By data packages and validity periods

• Daily data allowance: Options like 500MB/day, 1GB/day, or 2GB/day, valid for 5 to 30 days.
• Fixed data plans: Pre-set packages such as 5GB, 10GB, or 20GB, often including call minutes, usable for 10 to 30 days.

How much does a European SIM card cost?

The cost of a European SIM card varies depending on the type, data allowance, and validity period. Below is a reference price list for popular European travel SIMs covering around 40 countries.

Daily SIM packages:

Average price of European daily SIMs at the moment (Unit: VND)

Fixed SIM packages:

Average price of European fixed SIM packages at the moment (Unit: VND)

If you're looking for affordable European SIM cards, travelers can refer to the average prices above. These SIMs come with preloaded data and unlimited low-speed data after exhausting high-speed limits. They are compatible with most smart devices and usable in up to 40 countries.

Should you buy a European SIM card in Vietnam or Europe?

Based on experience, travelers are advised to purchase a European SIM card in Vietnam beforehand. This not only saves costs but also avoids time-consuming hassles such as presenting passports, providing personal information to buy in Europe, searching for reputable SIM vendors to avoid scams, and enduring lengthy registration processes in each country.

Comparison table: Buying a travel SIM in Vietnam vs. Europe

Having a SIM card ready to activate upon landing is ideal for contacting family, friends, or partners, or simply accessing the internet while waiting for immigration. Purchasing a SIM after arrival can be time-consuming and often involves complicated registration steps.

Review of the top 5 most popular European travel SIM cards

Tips for buying European SIM cards for specific types

Three.Co.Uk SIM - UK Network Provider

This affordable European SIM is ideal for short-term travelers primarily staying in the UK, with minimal data needs when visiting other countries.

• Price: 268,000 - 610,000 VND.
• Advantages: Low cost; generous data allowance.
• Disadvantages: Signal quality may not match other providers; potential network congestion or outages during peak usage.

EE European SIM - UK Network Provider

The EE European SIM offers the fastest mobile network in the UK with extensive coverage. Travelers using this network can share hotspots but should note that it does not support voice calls.

• Price: 268,000 - 938,000 VND.
• Advantages: Affordable; high-speed internet; ability to share data with nearby devices.
• Disadvantages: No call support; SIM activation only possible in Europe; fully English interface.

Vodafone European SIM - German Network Provider

Vodafone is a renowned 4G European SIM offering large data packages and unlimited calling and texting, making it ideal for long-term trips.

• Price: 268,000 - 790,000 VND.
• Advantages: High-speed; stable connection.
• Disadvantages: SIM activation process is relatively complex.

Orange SIM - French Network Provider

This European SIM offers extensive coverage across Europe and France, with large data packages and unlimited calling and texting, making it ideal for travelers who need frequent communication during their trip.

• Price: 268,000 - 1,250,000 VND.
• Advantages: High-speed; stable connection; ability to share internet with nearby devices.
• Disadvantages: No coverage in Switzerland.

O2 SIM - UK Network Provider

Known for stable telecommunications signals and reliable network connections, the O2 SIM is often priced higher, making it suitable for short trips.

• Price: 550,000 - 1,145,000 VND.
• Advantages: High-speed; stable connection; ability to share internet with nearby devices.
• Disadvantages: High cost; no coverage in Switzerland; complex SIM activation and top-up process.

Tips for saving money while using European travel SIMs

• Balance retention: European SIMs can often be reused by topping up, allowing travelers to retain their balance for future trips if within the validity period.
• No charges for incoming calls and messages: Similar to regular SIMs in Vietnam, you won’t incur charges for receiving calls or messages.
• Opt for data-only SIMs instead of call packages: To save money, choose SIMs offering data instead of call minutes. These are usually cheaper, and you can still communicate via apps like Zalo, Messenger, WhatsApp, or Viber.
• Utilize Wi-Fi wherever possible: European SIMs often come with limited data. Save data by using Wi-Fi at hotels, restaurants, cafes, and other public places.
• Choose a package matching your travel duration: Select a SIM with a validity period matching your trip length (e.g., 10 days for a 10-day trip) to avoid waste and save costs.
• Suggested locations to buy European SIMs: For purchasing travel SIMs, consider counters at major airports such as:

- Paris Airport (France): SIM counters at Charles De Gaulle Airport by providers like Orange, SFR, Free Mobile, Bouygues Telecom, etc.

- Frankfurt Airport (Germany): Whether at Frankfurt or Berlin airports, travelers can easily purchase European SIMs from well-known providers like Telekom, O2, Vodafone, etc.

- Amsterdam Airport (Netherlands): At Amsterdam Schiphol International Airport, look for SIM counters by KPN, Vodafone, T-Mobile, and others.

Guide to activating and using European SIM cards

Installing a physical European SIM card

To install a physical SIM, remove the SIM card from its packaging and use a SIM ejector tool to remove the original SIM. Insert the European SIM into the SIM tray for single-SIM devices, or place the travel SIM into the empty tray for dual-SIM devices (preferably slot 1 for faster and more stable connectivity).

For this type of SIM, activation should occur after landing. Early activation in Vietnam may cause errors. The steps for installation and usage include:

• Step 1: Power off the device, remove the old SIM, and insert the travel SIM into the SIM tray.
• Step 2: Power on the device and restart it.
• Step 3: Enable the device's network settings.

If activation issues arise in Europe, travelers can check the code on the tray and contact the SIM provider for immediate assistance.

Activating a physical European SIM card

Installing a European eSIM

For European eSIMs, activation is only possible on eSIM-compatible devices without removing the original SIM. The installation process varies by operating system, as follows:

• Apple devices running iOS:

Settings -> Cellular -> Add eSIM -> Use QR code.

Step-by-step guide to activating eSIM on iOS operating systems

• For Android OS, including Samsung, Oppo, Huawei, and other brands:

Navigate to Settings -> Connections -> SIM Manager -> Add eSIM.

Detailed instructions for activating European eSIM on Android operating systems

What are some common questions when using European SIM cards?

Are European SIM cards compatible with iOS or Android operating systems?

European international SIM cards work seamlessly with both iOS and Android devices, supporting both physical SIM cards and electronic eSIMs.

Are there many free Wi-Fi hotspots available in Europe?

Europe offers numerous free Wi-Fi hotspots, primarily located in high-traffic areas such as airports, gas stations, and restaurants. However, due to high user demand, connections may be unstable, security can be weak, and maintaining a continuous network throughout your journey might be challenging. Travelers should consider these factors before relying on free Wi-Fi.

Which mobile network providers are available in Europe?

European SIM cards are offered by numerous well-known telecom providers such as Orange, Vodafone, Free Mobile, O2, Bouygues Telecom, and EE. Each provider offers extensive coverage and high-speed connectivity in specific countries and regions.

What are the roaming charges in Europe?

Roaming fees in Europe vary depending on the telecom provider and the country you are visiting. For instance, Viettel charges international roaming fees ranging from 130,000 VND to 1,100,000 VND for packages lasting 3 to 30 days. However, rates may differ based on the time of use and the destination country. It’s essential to research thoroughly, as exceeding your plan’s limits can result in costly roaming charges.

This guide provides detailed information about European SIM cards, pricing, and practical usage tips. To optimize your calling and connectivity solutions, consider purchasing a European travel SIM from reputable travel agencies or providers for a safe and hassle-free journey.

Author: Dung Nguyễn

Image Source: Internet