Vietnam SIM Card Tips for Vietnam Package Tours Travelers

Why You Need a Vietnam SIM Card for Your Trip

Cost-Effective Communication: Save More, Explore More

• Affordable Local Rates: You can save up to 90% on data and roaming fees by using our Vietnam SIM card with your Vietnam phone instead of your home SIM card. For example:
  • A ten-minute local phone call could only be 1,000 VND (about 0.04 USD) as compared to several dollars in international roaming charges.
  • Data packs start as low as 100,000 VND (about 4 USD) for 10GB of high-speed data, so you have enough data to stay connected and not as much to spend.
• Local Calling and Texting: Quickly contact the hotel, tour operator, and restaurant with peace of mind that you won’t be charged international calling fees. This can be particularly helpful for:
  • Booking Tours: A Hanoi-based travel agency by phone for a Halong Bay cruise.
  • Restaurant Reservations: Making a reservation at a well-known Vietnamese restaurant in Ho Chi Minh City.
  • Emergency Contacts: The number of your local guide or hotel reception.
• Cheap International Calls: Many SIM bundles come with free or reduced-price international minutes, ideal for keeping in contact with family and friends in other countries.

Seamless Navigation: Never Get Lost Again

With a Vietnam SIM card, you also have navigation at your disposal, so you can travel with ease:

• Google Maps for Exploration: Walk the busy streets of Hanoi’s Old Quarter, trek through Sapa’s epic fields, or share a hidden beach in Da Nang.
  • Example: Looking for the best pho in Hanoi? Just type it in and do as it says.
  • Real-Time Traffic Updates: Outsmart Ho Chi Minh City and find peace on the scenic route to the Mekong Delta.
• Grab for Convenient Transportation: Want a fast lift? Take Grab, Southeast Asia’s ride-hailing app of choice. Vietnam SIM card options. With a Vietnam SIM card, you can:
  • Book a GrabCar or GrabBike, and grab a quick meal delivery.
  • Ride share in real time and share your ride details with friends for added safety.
• Zalo for Local Connections: Zalo, a popular messaging app in Vietnam, is a great way to chat with local friends, book local tours, or join local travel groups.

Secure and Private Connection: No More Risky Public Wi-Fi

Public Wi-Fi at cafes, hotels, or airports may be insecure. Advantages of using a Vietnam SIM card. With a local Vietnam SIM card, you will have a safe and private way to stay connected with the following benefits:

• Data Encryption: Your life on the internet is safe with us, securely browse, knowing your personal information is encrypted.
• Safe Payments: Paying for services through apps like MoMo or ZaloPay means you don’t have to share your bank details.
• Privacy Guaranteed: No hacker will steal your lovemaking details on insecure public Wi-Fi.

Types of Vietnam SIM Cards: Physical vs. eSIM – Which One is Right for You?

Clear Comparison: Physical SIM vs. eSIM

Aspect	Physical SIM Card	eSIM (Digital SIM)
Availability	Available at airports, mobile stores, and major cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City	Can be purchased and activated online, even before you arrive
Device Compatibility	Works with any unlocked phone with a SIM card slot	Limited to eSIM-compatible phones (iPhone XR or newer, Samsung S20, Google Pixel 4+)
Setup Process	Manual insertion and activation; need to show passport for registration	QR code scanning and online setup; fast and convenient
Security	Risk of loss or damage if you remove it frequently	Secure, cannot be lost or physically damaged
Switching Plans	Requires swapping physical SIMs if changing providers	Can switch plans instantly without physical changes
Network Providers	Viettel, Vinaphone, MobiFone, Vietnamobile	Supported by major providers (Viettel, Vinaphone) and global eSIM brands (Gigago, Airalo)
Data Plans	A wide variety of prepaid and tourist SIM plans are available	Digital data packages, often more flexible
Price	Generally cheaper; local rates	Slightly higher cost but highly convenient
Best for	Travelers with older phones or those who want a hands-on option	Travelers with eSIM-compatible phones who value convenience

Physical SIM Card: A Classic Choice for Travelers

A Physical SIM card is the usual type of SIM you can get when you travel to Vietnam. It’s easy enough to purchase one at major airports such as Noi Bai (Hanoi) or Tan Son Nhat (Ho Chi Minh City), or mobile shops in major towns. This is great for people who want a physical card that they can insert and use right away.

Key Benefits of Physical SIM Cards:

• Widespread Availability: At airport stands, cellphone shops, and even bodegas nationwide.
• Instant Connectivity: Plug and play, no driver needed.
• Compatibility: Compatible with any unlocked phone with a SIM card slot.
• Affordable Options: Select a few Junk SIM card plans in Vietnam, such as Vietnamobile tourist SIM cards, MobiFone tourist SIM cards, Vinaphone tourist SIM cards, and Viettel tourist SIM cards.

Best For:

• Travelers seeking an affordable, dependable choice.
• Everyone else without eSIM-capable phones.
• Customers who are seeking to purchase a SIM in person, have questions, or require setup assistance.

eSIM: The Modern, Hassle-Free Option

Of course, if you’re all about convenience and hate dealing with small cards, an eSIM (and embedded SIM) will be your best friend. You can buy or activate an eSIM online before you go or once you arrive in Vietnam. No need to go to a store, no need to exchange physical cards. It’s all digital!

Key Benefits of eSIM:

• Instant Setup: Just scan a QR code in your email, and your SIM will be activated.
• Secure: No need to worry about the loss and damage of the SIM card.
• Multiple Profiles: You can easily switch among profiles for different mobile networks without the need to take out and insert a card.
• Great for Short Trips: Set up a data plan for your stay without the need for long-term plans.

Best For:

• Travelers with devices that support eSIM (such as an iPhone XR or better, Google Pixel, Samsung S20+).
• Digital nomads who like to keep all their data online.
• Those looking to stay online, the moment you touch down in Vietnam.
  

Pros and Cons of Vietnam SIM Cards: Physical SIM vs. eSIM

Aspect	Physical SIM Card	eSIM (Digital SIM)
Pros	– Widely available across Vietnam (airports, mobile stores).	– Hassle-free, fully digital setup.
	– No internet needed to set up.	– Cannot be lost or physically damaged.
	– Compatible with any unlocked phone.	– Easily switch between data plans.
Cons	– Risk of damage or loss if removed frequently.	– Only works with eSIM-compatible phones.
	– May require registration with a passport at the store.	– Requires internet to purchase and activate.
	– Limited flexibility (must swap cards to change providers).	– Slightly higher cost compared to physical SIM cards.

Top Vietnam SIM Card Providers: Quick Comparison

Provider	Best Package	Data Allowance	Price	Validity	Additional Features
Viettel	TOUR100	Unlimited	100,000 VND	30 days	Free 20-minute international calls.
Vinaphone	Tourist SIM	15GB	150,000 VND	15 days	Free social media access (Facebook, Zalo).
MobiFone	Happy Tourist	8GB	109,000 VND	30 days	40 minutes of international calls.
Vietnamobile	Budget SIM	10GB	70,000 VND	30 days	Lowest cost, basic data package.

How to Buy a Vietnam SIM Card: 3 Simple Options

Option 1: Buy at the Airport (Recommended for Short Trips)

The quickest and simplest way for you to get a Vietnam SIM card is immediately after landing. The kiosks that may be found at any major airport, including Noi Bai (Hanoi), Tan Son Nhat (Ho Chi Minh City), and Da Nang International Airport, offer SIM cards and are your easiest option for establishing mobile service.

Where to Buy:

• Noi Bai Airport (Hanoi): At the arrivals area, there are kiosks from Viettel, Vinaphone, and MobiFone.
• Tan Son Nhat Airport (Ho Chi Minh City): counters of SIM card as soon as you enter the customs zone.
• Da Nang International Airport: Convenient SIM kiosks are located at the arrival terminal.

Pros of Buying at the Airport:

• Instant Setup: Simply insert the Vietnam SIM card and power your phone to be connected everywhere you go!
• Convenience: Airport staff are accustomed to assisting weary travelers, meaning there will be no language barriers.Cookie Policy.
• Easy Comparison: View plans from multiple service providers (Viettel, Vinaphone, MobiFone) and buy the one that works for you.

 Cons of Buying at the Airport:

• Slightly Higher Prices: SIM cards at airports are generally more expensive than city prices.
• Limited Package Options: You may not receive the full range of data packages offered in the city.

Who Should Choose This Option?

• Short-term visitors who want to be “linked in” as soon as they arrive.
• People who prioritize convenience over cost.
• Newcomers looking for a straightforward installation.

Option 2: Buy at Mobile Stores in the City (Best for Longer Stays)

If you have the time and the interest in saving a few dollars, a good option is buying your Vietnam SIM card at an official store in the city. This is an excellent plan for anybody staying at least a week who wants to compare several data plans.

Best Stores to Buy:

• Viettel Stores: In major cities with red & white signage.
• Vinaphone Stores: Right, blue and white, generally located in shopping centers and downtown areas.
• MobiFone Stores: Both tourist areas and localities have red and blue stores.

Pros of Buying at Mobile Stores:

• More Package Options: Select from a diverse range of data bundles, including high-speed data packages.
• Cheaper Prices: SIM card prices are generally cheaper in the city as compared to the airport.
• Local Support: Visit any store for a hand getting your Vietnam SIM card and answers to your questions.

 Cons of Buying at Mobile Stores:

• Language Barrier: Some store workers may not speak English fluently. But no need to fret, a simple question with words like “tourist SIM” or “data” should suffice.
• Time-Consuming: You could have to wait in line, especially in peak tourist times.

Who Should Choose This Option?

• Long-term visitors to Vietnam.
• People who want to shop for the best deals on data.
• You don’t buy souvenirs like ceramics and handmade leather shoes online, plus those in your family who would prefer to make a purchase face-to-face.

Option 3: Buy eSIM Online (Fast and Digital)

Searching for the most convenient, fastest way to stay connected? An eSIM is your best choice. This digital SIM card is incredibly convenient to purchase and activate, all online, no plaStic SIM required! You can even do it before you go to Vietnam.

Recommended eSIM Providers:

• Gigago: Suiting tourists, Gigago has a broad selection of data bundles available.
• Airalo: Known for its easy-to-use app and worldwide eSIM choices
• Holafly: Good for short trips, with unlimited data options.

Pros of Using eSIM:

• Instant Activation: Sign up and set up before you leave for your trip, and the connection starts there as soon as you step off the plane.
• No Physical Card Required: No risk of losing or damaging a SIM card.
• Easy to Switch Providers: The profiles come loaded on the SIM, so you don’t have to introduce a new profile on your phone; you just have to delete the available profile (Return Ours Activation) and add the one that you want to use.

 Cons of Using eSIM:

• Device Compatibility: Operates on eSIM-compatible phones only (applicable with iPhone XR or newer, Samsung S20+, Google Pixel).
• Slightly Higher Cost: eSIM plans may be slightly more expensive than physical plans.

Who Should Choose This Option?

• Travelers who own an eSIM-enabled phone.
• Digital nomads or regular travelers who want a digital option.
• Those with a need to immediately get connected when they touch down.

How to Activate and Set Up Your Vietnam SIM Card: A Complete Guide

Setting Up Your Physical Vietnam SIM Card (Simple and Reliable)

1. Insert the SIM Card:

• • Power off your phone.
  • Open up your SIM card slot with a SIM ejector tool or a paper clip.
  • Fit the Vietnam SIM card into the phone.
  • Power on your phone.
    

2. Choose Your Mobile Network:

• • Go to Settings > Mobile Data (or Cellular).
  • Select the new SIM as your active SIM for data.

3. Activate Your SIM:

• • The SIM should activate automatically for most providers, such as Viettel, Vinaphone, or MobiFone.
  • You should get a welcome SMS saying it’s successful and giving you your phone number and data package details.
    

4. Configure APN Settings (If Needed):

• • Go to Settings > Mobile Data > Mobile Data Network.
  • Enter the APN settings for your provider:
    • Viettel: APN: v-internet
    • Vinaphone: APN: m3-world
    • MobiFone: APN: m-wap
      

5. Test Your Connection:

• • And to try out your internet connection, open a browser or an app, such as Google Maps.
  • If everything works, you’re all set!

Step-by-Step Setup for eSIM

1. Purchase and Download Your eSIM:

• • Purchase your eSIM from a reputable provider such as Gigago, Airalo, or Holafly.
  • You will get an email containing a QR code or activation code manually .
    

2. Activate Your eSIM:

• • Go to Settings > Mobile Data (or Cellular).
  • Choose Add Data Plan or Add eSIM.
  • Scan the QR code you received, or enter the activation code manually.
    

3. Select Your eSIM as Primary:

• • Select your eSIM as the preferred SIM for mobile data.
  • Using a dual-SIM phone, you can also switch between your SIM cards (home SIM and eSIM) without having to remove cards from your phone.
    

4. Check Your Data Plan:

• • You will get a confirmation message regarding the data pack with the data amount validity and other details.
    

5. Start Browsing and Exploring:

• • Navigate Hanoi with Google Maps. For navigation around Hanoi, it’s all about Google Maps.
  • Take a Grab ride in Ho Chi Minh City.
  • Post your travel photos to social media without fear in the world.

Conclusion

A Vietnam SIM card is the best way to connect to the world while you travel your way. Whether you’re zipping through the busy streets of Hanoi or backpacking in some of the most remote areas, the FiFly Global keeps you connected without spending a fortune. Opt for the best SIM card Vietnam has to offer – be it a physical SIM card for a traditional setup or an eSIM for super-fast activation. Keep in touch, share your journey on social media, and venture with confidence. Ready for your trip? And don’t forget to read up on the latest Vietnam travel new and about tipping culture Vietnam for a seamless experience.