Quick tips about mobile internet in Vietnam
Getting a local SIM card or eSIM in Vietnam is highly recommended for an enjoyable and hassle-free trip. While many hotels and restaurants offer Wi-Fi, having your own mobile data can be a lifesaver in various situations. It ensures you’re always connected, making your Vietnam travel experience smoother and more convenient. Having mobile internet is also very cheap, so you should really not hesitate to get a mobile data plan.
Why You Need a SIM Card in Vietnam
A local SIM card or eSIM will empower your travels by helping you:
- Discover delicious local dishes: Find hidden culinary gems and popular eateries with ease.
- Navigate confidently: Get around unfamiliar cities and towns without getting lost.
- Order motorides: experience a motorbike taxi in the crazy traffic or book cars through ride-hailing apps like Grab.
- Find your way: Utilize maps and navigation apps to explore freely.
- Bridge language barriers: Communicate easily with locals using Google Translate.
- Explore off the beaten path: Venture beyond typical tourist spots with confidence and flexibility.
Check out our article on the indispensable mobile apps for Vietnam tourism. They’ll make your experience a lot easier!
Choosing your mobile network
Vietnam has three major mobile networks: Mobifone, Viettel, and Vinaphone. All three offer extensive coverage across most of the country.
Viettel, owned by the Vietnam People’s Army, is often said to reach more remote areas. However, based on our experience, you’ll rarely find yourself without signal using any of the major networks.
Embrace the Convenience of an eSIM
If your phone supports it, an eSIM for Vietnam is an excellent option. An eSIM is a digital SIM embedded directly in your phone, eliminating the need for a physical card. The best part? You can easily purchase a plan tailored to your travel duration and data needs, ensuring you only pay for what you use.
Finding an eSIM: Search your app store for “eSIM Vietnam”. You’ll find many providers, so be sure to check reviews and ratings to choose a reliable app.
eSIM Compatible Phones: Most recent phones support eSIM. iPhones have had eSIM capabilities since the 2018 XS model, and most recent Android phones also offer this feature. You can find a comprehensive list of compatible devices at this page: https://esim.holafly.com/how-to/esim-phones/
Price and Flexibility: eSIMs are often more affordable than traditional physical SIM cards, with plans starting around $2 USD for 1 to 3 days. You can choose the exact amount of data you need for your stay. If you run out, simply connect to Wi-Fi at a nearby shop or café and purchase another package.
Local Number: Keep in mind that only eSIMs from local Vietnamese networks like Mobifone or Viettel will provide you with a local phone number. If you need a local number for calls or local app registrations, ensure you select one of these providers.
Saving Data: To conserve your mobile data, make the most of free Wi-Fi! Most cafés, hotels, and businesses in Vietnam offer complimentary, strong Wi-Fi connections. Don’t hesitate to ask for the password – sharing Wi-Fi is very common, and most businesses are happy to provide it. Being online is so ingrained in daily life here that any serious business wouldn’t dare to not offer free Wi-Fi!
Where to Buy a Physical SIM Card
- At the airport: You’ll find several small booths selling SIM cards both inside and outside the airport terminals.
- In town: The easiest way to find a SIM card is to search for “SIM Card” on Google Maps. You can also find them at major electronics stores like The Gioi Di Dong or FPT Shop, commonly found in shopping malls and on commercial streets. Additionally, official stores for Viettel, Mobifone, and Vinaphone are excellent places to purchase a SIM.
Can you be scammed when buying a SIM Card in Vietnam?
The eSim is very safe, all done online with transparent reviews. And for physical Sim cards, if you buy yours at the airport or in one of the shops we listed above, there will be no problem and the staff will even help you install and activate it.
Important Note on Registration
While it’s not always strictly enforced for short-term tourist plans, some shops may ask for your passport to register your SIM card. It is requested by law (as in most countries)
We hope these tips help you find the perfect SIM card for your Vietnam adventure, making your trip even more enjoyable!
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