3 Best SIM Cards for UK in 2024
How to choose a SIM card
For those of you planning a trip to the UK, have you decided on your means of communication while you're there? Your smartphone is an important travel companion for gathering information about tourist spots, updating your SNS, getting directions, and more. You want to be able to use it as soon as you arrive at your destination and use it comfortably. Here are some points to consider when choosing the best SIM card for your trip to the UK.
1. Communication quality, area coverage, and rate plans
■ Check available areas
It's important to choose a SIM card that's specifically for the UK (a.k.a local SIM). Although some SIM cards can be used across Europe, a local SIM card is the best option.
■ Check data communication speed and capacity
High-speed internet is widely available in the UK, but the speed and data capacity vary depending on the plan. Choose an appropriate plan based on your needs during your trip.
■ Comparison of pricing plans
It's important to choose a plan that suits your duration in the UK and your data usage. There are various options available, including daily plans for short stays and flat-rate plans for longer stays.
2. Check your SIM card type and size
■ Available SIM card typesStandard SIM, micro SIM, nano SIM and eSIM are available in the UK. It's important to choose the right SIM card for your device.
3. Check the purchase, receipt and activation procedures
■ How to obtain a SIM cardIn the UK, SIM cards can be purchased at airports, convenience stores, and online shops. Be sure to research the purchasing method, procedure, and necessary documents in advance to ensure a smooth process.
Recommended SIM cards
■EE SIM
It is the largest company in the UK and boasts high area coverage for 4G and LTE lines. It is recommended for those who want to use the internet comfortably even if the fee is a little higher. With Pay as you go (prepaid type), you can choose a plan that prioritizes data or calls for the same price.
■ O2 SIM
It is the largest telecommunications company with the highest name recognition in the UK. Wi-Fi is available exclusively to O2 users at cafes and stations. In addition, because it is affiliated with concert management companies, you can enjoy benefits such as priority admission to concerts and live shows. There are also various benefits for Pay as you go (prepaid system).
■Three SIM
Three is popular for its good value for money. It is known for its low rates, has a variety of plans for short-term and long-term residents, and provides high-speed data communication compatible with 4G and 5G. A pay-as-you-go (prepaid) plan with unlimited data communication for one month costs 35 pounds (approximately 6,600 yen). It is a convenient and cost-effective communication method suitable for travelers, business users, and long-term residents. There are no communication restrictions after a certain amount of data, as in Japan.
Things to note when using SIM cards in the UK
1. Research in advance how to obtain a SIM card
If you plan to buy a SIM card after you arrive in the UK, you should research in advance where you can buy one and what documents you need. You may also need cash to buy a SIM card locally, so you may need to prepare British currency (pounds) in advance.
2. Choose your data plan carefully
Mobile data usage in the UK can be expensive when roaming abroad, so it's important to check the fine print carefully before choosing a plan with limited data capacity or speed restrictions.
3. Check the size of your SIM card
Many smartphones now use nano SIMs, but you should check what size SIM your phone requires and consider whether the SIM you buy in the UK will fit.
4. Check your phone's lock status
If your phone is locked to a particular carrier, a UK SIM card may not work - we recommend using an unlocked phone or one that can be unlocked.
We recommend eSIM when traveling to the UK!
■ Benefits of eSIM when visiting the UK
When traveling to the UK, eSIM is a great choice for its convenience. Unlike traditional SIM cards, eSIMs do not require a physical replacement and are built directly into your device, so you can connect to the network instantly after just a few setup steps. This means you don't need to carry a WiFi router with you and avoid the hassle of returning it.
■ VOYAGEESIM is recommended for travelling to the UK
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. By simply installing and setting up the eSIM, you can use data communications in 42 countries and regions in Europe, including the UK, on your smartphone.
The communications services provided by this product are provided by Vodafone Roaming Services S.à rl .
■VOYAGEESIM FOR Europe review
I used it every day, just like in Japan, and the amount of data was enough for my 6-day stay. (I used Wi-Fi at the hotel) The communication speed was also good, so I would like to use it again next time.
-January 8, 2024-
The service was quick and polite, so I felt reassured that if I had any problems during my trip, they would be able to help me. Fortunately, I was able to use it without any problems during my trip and didn't need to contact them.
It's really convenient to be able to use my smartphone just like when I'm in Japan! The price is also very reasonable and the cost performance is excellent. I would like to use it on my next trip, so I hope that more countries will be supported in the future. I 'm glad I found a good product. Thank you very much .
-January 2, 2024-
-December 11, 2023-
