3 Best SIM Cards for Netherlands in 2024
Are you planning a trip to the Netherlands? Hallo ! Are you ready? The Netherlands, the country of windmills and tulips, attracts tourists with its beautiful scenery and historic cityscapes. There are plenty of things to see, such as the canals of Amsterdam, the Anne Frank House, and the Keukenhof Gardens! You can also enjoy Dutch specialties such as Gouda cheese and stroopwafels. A smartphone is essential for a comfortable trip, whether it's for local navigation, searching for tourist spots, or updating SNS . In this article, we will introduce in detail how to choose and use the recommended SIM card that will be convenient and comfortable to use during your stay in the Netherlands!
1. No stress when it comes to communication in the Netherlands! How to choose a SIM card
Check communication area and communication qualityTo make the most of your trip to the Netherlands, first check the coverage and quality of your internet connection. The major carriers KPN , Vodafone and T-Mobile provide extensive coverage throughout the country, making it easy to use anywhere, from urban areas to the countryside. Not only are the tourist attractions in the city great for sharing photos and videos of the beautiful scenery in the countryside, but they're also perfect for sharing photos and videos of the tourist attractions in the city.
Choose the data plan that's right for you
The next thing to consider is your data plan and its speed. Think about how much data you need. The best data plan will depend on how you use your smartphone, such as updating social media, using map apps, streaming videos, etc. KPN and Vodafone offer high-speed data, and T-Mobile also offers a plan with excellent speed.
How to choose a rate plan
The pricing plan is also an important point. If you are staying for a short period of time, a prepaid plan is convenient. You can top up your prepaid plan when you run out, so you can use it according to your budget. For long-term visitors or those who use data frequently, a flat-rate plan is recommended. KPN , Vodafone and T-Mobile all offer competitive pricing plans, so choose the plan that best suits your usage style.
2. Check the type and size of your SIM card in advance
Checking SIM card type and compatibilityMake sure you know what type of SIM card your smartphone supports. Nano SIMs are common in newer smartphones, while older models may require a micro or standard SIM . When buying a SIM card locally, make sure you choose the right size for your device. You can also opt for an eSIM , which is easier to set up as you don't need to insert a physical SIM card. It's easy to buy an eSIM online and you can start using it straight away, so it's a good idea to have one ready before you arrive in the Netherlands.
3. How do I get a SIM card in the Netherlands?
Where can I buy a SIM card?
It is very easy to get a SIM card in the Netherlands. You can purchase one at Schiphol Airport, major train stations, shopping malls, carrier shops in the city, etc. In particular, many staff at airports and major carrier shops can speak English, so you can rest assured.
Recommended SIM cards available in the Netherlands
■ KPN SIMIt is the largest telecommunications company in the Netherlands. It was once a state-owned telecommunications company, but it still owns the fixed-line telephone network, and its wide coverage and stable communication quality are its attractions. 4G/LTE is available even with a prepaid plan. Prepaid plans are sold for 4.99 €, and you can purchase additional options as needed.
■ Odido SIM
T-Mobile and Tele2 merged and changed their name to Odido in 2023. Their strong point is their fast 4G network, and you can expect stable connections not only in urban areas but also in rural areas. The prepaid plan is 10 €, and additional options can be purchased.
■ Vodafone SIM
Vodafone has a wide presence across Europe and a strong network in the Netherlands. Data plans range from 10 € for 2GB to 30 € for 10GB , so it's easy to find a plan that suits your needs.
*Please be sure to check the contents of the SIM card yourself before purchasing.
Important points to remember when buying a SIM card in the Netherlands
Where to buy a SIM card and how to prepare
You can conveniently get a SIM card in the Netherlands at major airports, train stations, shopping malls, and carrier stores in the city. At Amsterdam Schiphol Airport, there are shops where you can purchase a SIM card immediately after arriving. You can also easily purchase one at major carrier stores and electronics retailers in the city. You may need to show identification (passport) when purchasing, so don't forget to bring it with you. Payment is generally made by cash or credit card. It's a good idea to have the Dutch currency, euros, ready.
Choose your data plan
When using a smartphone in the Netherlands, international roaming charges may be high if you use your Japanese plan as is. For short-term stays, a prepaid plan that can be used on a weekly or monthly basis is convenient. If you choose a large-capacity data plan, you can use maps and update SNS smoothly. Compare the plans of each carrier and choose the plan that best suits your purpose.
Check the size of your SIM card
Before you travel, check what size SIM card your smartphone supports. Newer smartphones often use nano SIMs , but older models may require micro or standard SIMs . You'll need a special pin to replace your SIM card, so be sure to bring the one that came with your smartphone when you bought it. It's also a good idea to bring a case or pouch to safely store your current SIM card.
Checking SIM lock status
In order to use a local SIM card overseas, your smartphone must be unlocked. Before you leave for the Netherlands, make sure your smartphone is SIM -free. If necessary, contact your carrier and apply for SIM- unlock. If your smartphone is not SIM - free, you will not be able to use the local SIM card, which can cause communication problems, so be sure to check in advance.
■The eSIM "VOYAGEESIM" for traveling to the Netherlands, which can be purchased in advance in Japan , can be purchased here .
If you're going to the Netherlands, eSIM is highly recommended!
For those of you planning a trip to the Netherlands, we recommend using an eSIM to fully enjoy the country's beautiful scenery and charming cityscapes! eSIMs are easy to set up, and you can quickly set up a communication environment locally. There's no need to replace SIM cards, so you don't have to worry about adding to your luggage. You also don't have to worry about roaming fees overseas, so you can use the internet with peace of mind. Be sure to try out an eSIM on your next trip to the Netherlands! It will make your trip even more comfortable and enjoyable.
VOYAGEESIM FOR EUROPE
Supported countries are here
Click here for a list of products
You can choose from four plans: 5G for 10 days, 10GB for 15 days, 20GB for 30 days, and 50GB for 60 days.
With " VOYAGEE SIM ", you can keep the SIM card you use in Japan! You can purchase it from the comfort of your own home! There's no need to stand in line at the airport to purchase a new one, and no waiting time! Just set it up online in the local airport's Wi-Fi environment! Your smartphone will instantly be able to use data in 42 countries and regions in Europe.
*The communications service provided by this product is Vodafone Roaming Services S.à rl.
■VOYAGEESIM FOR EUROPE review
"The setup was easy. Free-wify is widely available in Germany and has faster speeds, so I only used about 1GB in a week. I was able to connect without any problems even in less famous tourist spots (although they are listed in the "Earth Walk Guide", there are no Asian tourists to be seen). "-July 22, 2024-
"The instructions for use were thorough, so I was able to use it without any problems. I didn't need to carry around a mobile wifi, so I thought it was really convenient." - July 4, 2024 -
"It was a reliable e-SIM. This was my second time using Voyage's e-SIM after my trip to Vietnam. I went to France, Albania, and Malta, and there were no problems with the connection, and I was able to use it comfortably in every country. However, in Malta, I was not able to check the remaining charge on the SIM (by phone), which was disappointing. At first, I was thinking of purchasing an unlimited e-SIM, and when I inquired about it via chat, I was given a translated response in Japanese, and it was difficult to understand the detailed expressions, so I gave up. This e-SIM can be used in Japanese, which was really helpful. I asked questions via chat several times from the local area, and they were properly responded to, so I felt at ease.
" - June 25, 2024 -
Source: VOYAGE eSIM FOR EUROPE [Europe 42] eSIM 10 days/5GB
VOYAGE eSIM FOR EUROPE [Europe 42] eSIM 30 days/20GB
summary
In this article, we introduced the recommended SIM cards for your stay in the Netherlands, especially the benefits and precautions of " eSIM ". On your next trip to the Netherlands, be sure to try out VOYAGE eSIM 's " eSIM ". There's no doubt that your trip will be even more wonderful! goede reis!
*The contents of this blog post are based on information available at the time of writing. Please be sure to check the latest information for yourself.