4 Best SIM Cards for Europe in 2024
How to choose a SIM card
1. Compare communication speeds, communication areas, rate plans, etc.
■ Check supported countries and regions
It is important to choose a SIM card that can be used in the country or region you are traveling to. Some SIM cards can be used in multiple countries or regions, but may have restrictions on where they can be used.
■ Check communication speed and capacity
Communication speeds and data volumes vary greatly depending on the plan. Be sure to check the communication speed and data volume you need before choosing a plan.
■Compare pricing plans
There are various SIM card rate plans, including those based on the number of days or data usage, and flat-rate plans. Be sure to compare plans and choose one that suits your travel plans.
■ Check whether roaming service is available
Some SIM cards offer roaming services. This allows you to use your existing SIM card in the country or region you are traveling to, saving you time and effort. However, there may be additional charges for using the roaming service, so it is important to check the rate plan carefully.
2. Pay attention to the type and size of the SIM card
■ Check the type of SIM card that is supported
Currently, the most common types of SIM cards are standard SIM , micro SIM , nano SIM , eSIM , etc. Make sure you check which type of SIM card your smartphone or tablet uses and whether you can purchase that type of SIM card.
3. Check how to purchase, receive, and activate the product
■ Check how to obtain a SIM card
You can purchase a SIM card in the country you are visiting at airports, train stations, local telephone company stores, online shops, etc. To make the process go smoothly, research the purchasing method, procedure, and necessary documents in advance.
Recommended SIM cards
■DHA SIM FOR EUROPE
This is a roaming 5G/4G-LTE/3G data SIM for Europe. The SIM card is 3-in-1 size ( standard, micro, nano). Available for 30 days. 3G is available in some countries.
■Mobal Europe Plus SIM
This is a prepaid SIM card that can be used throughout Europe. It offers data-only service and can be purchased in packs of 1GB to a maximum of 20GB . The card is valid for 30 days and can be purchased online or in some stores in Japan.
■Orange Holiday Europe SIM
Orange is a major telecom provider based in France, offering reliable communication services across Europe. The Orange Holiday Europe SIM is particularly popular with travelers and can be used in 34 countries. There are various plans available, ranging from 1GB/7 days to 100GB/28 days, and during the validity period of the SIM, calls within Europe are free. It can be purchased at airports or online.
■Vodafone SIM
Vodafone is known for its extensive coverage across Europe, providing reliable and stable communication. The Vodafone Prepaid SIM offers flexible data plans, including 3GB, 8GB, 20GB, and even unlimited data for 1-month plans. Its "Vodafone Global Roaming" service is especially beneficial for travelers, offering data coverage in over 100 countries worldwide, making it a convenient option for multi-country trips in Europe.
※Please check yourself the SIM card details before making your purchase.
Things to note when using SIM cards in Europe
1. Check how to get a SIM card in advance
If you want to buy a SIM card at your destination, you need to find out how to buy it and what documents you need. You may also need cash to buy a SIM card locally, so you may need to prepare local currency in advance.
2. Pay attention to your data usage
Data communications overseas can incur expensive roaming charges. There are plans that limit data volume or that throttle speeds when a certain amount is exceeded, so it is important to check the details of your plan before traveling.
3. Check the size
When traveling abroad, you must choose a SIM card that is the right size for your smartphone. If you are purchasing a SIM card locally, be sure to check the size of your smartphone's SIM card slot before purchasing.
4. Activation may take a long time
Activating a SIM card can take time. If you purchased a SIM card locally, it may take several hours to activate, so plan accordingly.
5. May not be available on locked devices
If your smartphone is locked, you may not be able to use the SIM card locally. Please unlock it or use an unlocked device.
Is an eSIM the best choice for traveling around Europe?
■Introducing reasons why Europe is recommended for travel
Europe is home to many beautiful landscapes and historical buildings in every country, and you will likely travel between countries on a frequent basis. During long-term travel, an eSIM is a must-have for smart travel, as it seamlessly consolidates all local communication methods in each country into one card and allows for easy setup.
■ VOYAGE eSIM is recommended for traveling around Europe
VOYAGEESIM FOR EUROPE
Supported countries are here
Click here for a list of products
You can choose from the following plans: 5G for 10 days, 10GB for 15 days, 20GB for 30 days, and 50GB for 60 days.
There is no need to replace the SIM card you use in Japan. Simply install and set up the eSIM and you can use data communications in 42 European countries and regions with your smartphone.
The communications services provided by this product are provided by Vodafone Roaming Services S.à rl .
summary
For smartphone and tablet communications while traveling in Europe, we recommend using an eSIM , which is easy to obtain and use. In this article, we've explained recommended European SIM cards, how to use them, communication methods, and points to note. Please use this as a reference to ensure safe and comfortable communications while traveling in Europe.
