3 Best SIM Cards for Moldova in 2024
Buna ziua! (Hello!) Are you planning a trip to Moldova? The Republic of Moldova, which gained independence from the former Soviet Union in 1991, is known as a famous wine producing region, and is a country with beautiful nature and rich historical culture. There are many attractions, such as the bustling markets in the capital Chisinau, historic monasteries, and wonderful wineries! In order to fully enjoy Moldova, it is essential to have an internet connection there. In order to make full use of your smartphone, such as navigation, restaurant reservations, and updating SNS, it is very important to prepare a SIM card. In this article, we will explain in detail how to choose and use the recommended SIM card that will be convenient and comfortable to use during your stay in Moldova!
1. Make your stay in Moldova more convenient! Tips for choosing a SIM card
Checking coverage and communication quality
To use the Internet comfortably in Moldova, first check the coverage and communication quality. Major carriers Moldcell and Orange cover a wide area throughout the country. If you plan to visit regional areas or tourist spots, it is a good idea to check the coverage map in advance. Be sure to check the reputation of communication quality to ensure comfortable communication in any area.
Choose your data plan and speed
Next, choose a data plan and speed. Think about how much data you will use during your trip and choose the amount of data you need. If you only do light web surfing and updating social media, a 1GB to 3GB plan may be enough. On the other hand, if you need to watch videos or transfer large amounts of data, we recommend considering an unlimited data plan. Speed is also an important factor, so choose the fastest plan possible to use it without stress.
How to choose a rate plan
Choose a plan according to your budget. Prepaid plans are common in Moldova, and they are convenient because you can charge only as much as you need. If you are staying for a short time, it is better to choose a special plan for short-term use or a plan for tourists. There are also several promotions and discounts, so check the carrier's website or store for the latest information.
2. Don't forget to check the SIM size that's right for your device
Checking SIM card type and compatibility
Check compatibility with your smartphone. Nano SIMs are the norm for the latest smartphones, but older models may require a micro SIM or standard SIM. It's a good idea to check the size of your SIM card in advance and have a conversion adapter ready if necessary. Also, if your smartphone is SIM-locked, don't forget to unlock it in advance. The unlocking process can take some time, so it's important to act early.
3. How do I get a SIM card in Moldova?
Where to buy a SIM card
It's very easy to buy a SIM card in Moldova. You can get one at mobile phone shops, shopping malls, and even some convenience stores and supermarkets in major airports and city centers. Chisinau International Airport is particularly convenient, as you can purchase a SIM card immediately after arriving. If you visit an official Moldcell or Orange store, you'll likely find English-speaking staff to assist you. You may be asked to show your passport when purchasing, so don't forget to bring it with you.
Recommended SIM cards for Moldova
■ Orange Holiday SIM
Orange's prepaid plans are characterized by their generous data volumes and high-speed communication. They are especially ideal for those who frequently watch videos or update their social media accounts. They can be purchased at airports and Orange shops in the city. Plans include a 20GB data plan for 29 MDL (Moldova Leu) and a 100GB data plan for 49 MDL.
■ Moldcell SIM
Owned by Nepal's CG Corp Global, Moldcell has wide coverage throughout the country and offers 4G/LTE connectivity even with prepaid plans. The prepaid SIM card is called Cartelă Moldcell and comes with a 20GB data plan for 29MDL which can be topped up as needed.
■ Moldtelecom SIM
Moldtelecom (formerly Unité) is a telecommunications operator operated by a former state-owned enterprise, which operates a 3G/4G network. It offers several prepaid plans, all valid for 21 days, with 15-50GB data plans, and prices ranging from 50-170 MDL.
Important points to note when purchasing a SIM card in Moldova
Where to buy a SIM card and how to prepare
It is important to check in advance how to obtain a SIM card, the compatibility of the smartphone you will be using, and the documents required for purchase. You can obtain a SIM card at the airport or a local mobile phone specialty store. Setting your smartphone's language to English in advance will make the activation process smoother. Activation may take some time, so plan well in advance. You may also need to have local currency ready when purchasing, so be sure to have it ready in advance.
How to choose a data plan
Since Moldova is not a member of the EU, international roaming charges have different limits and regulations, and if you use the smartphone you brought from Japan, it may be expensive. It is important to check the data volume and speed restrictions of your smartphone in advance and choose a local plan that suits your usage style. Local carriers have many reasonable data plans.
Check the SIM card size
Before you travel, make sure you know what size SIM card your phone supports. Newer phones often use nano SIMs, but older models may require a micro or standard SIM. You'll need a pin to replace your SIM card. This is usually included with your phone, but if you don't have one, it's a good idea to get one beforehand. Also, make sure you have a case or pouch to keep your current SIM card safe.
Checking SIM lock status
In order to use a local SIM card, your smartphone must be SIM-unlocked. Before you leave, make sure your smartphone is SIM-free and, if necessary, apply for SIM-unlocking. If unlocking is required, it may take some time to complete the process, so we recommend doing so early.
■The eSIM "VOYAGEESIM" for traveling to Moldova, which can be purchased in advance in your country, can be purchased here .
We recommend using an "eSIM" when traveling to Moldova!
■ eSIM is very convenient while staying in Moldova!
For those planning a trip to Moldova, we highly recommend eSIM as a means of communication. Unlike conventional physical SIM cards, eSIM (built-in SIM) is a digital SIM built into a smartphone or tablet. By using eSIM, there is no need to replace the physical SIM card, and you can instantly use local communication services by simply completing a few simple steps online. When renting a Wi-Fi router, it is a hassle to carry it around, charge it, and return it, but with eSIM, such troublesome work is not necessary at all. In addition, it can be used safely in terms of security, so there is no need to use public Wi-Fi. This will definitely make your trip even more comfortable and enjoyable. Take advantage of the next generation communication method "eSIM" and enjoy your trip to Moldova to the fullest!
■ Recommended for traveling to Moldova! When it comes to eSIM, "VOYAGEESIM" is the best
VOYAGEESIM FOR EUROPE
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 don't need to replace the SIM card you are using in Japan! No need to wait for a purchase! After purchasing online, just set it up online in the local airport Wi-Fi environment! Your smartphone will immediately be able to communicate in 42 countries and regions in Europe! It's simple, convenient, and smart!
*The communications service provided by this product is Vodafone Roaming Services S.à rl.
■VOYAGEESIM FOR Europe review
"You can use
I used e-SIM in five Central European countries: Germany, Czech Republic, Hungary, Slovakia, and Austria, and was able to connect without any problems in most places.
I have recommended it to my friends! - June 12, 2024 -
"This is the first time I've used this comfortable internet environment.
I used the 5GB, 10-day plan on an 8-day tour of Germany, the Czech Republic, and Hungary. I downloaded the data to my iPhone in Japan in advance as instructed, and when I arrived at Munich Airport, I was able to switch to the eSIM and use it immediately.
I was able to connect to 5G or 4G networks without any problems in any country, and had a comfortable internet environment. The signal was weak near Neuschwanstein Castle in Germany, and I couldn't connect, including to other service users, but otherwise there were no problems at all.
Compared to renting Wi-Fi, it's very convenient because you don't need to charge your device or carry around the Wi-Fi itself, and you can easily check your remaining charge at any time.
The cost performance is good, and I would like to use it again when I travel abroad in the future. " March 19, 2024
"It saved me.
I bought it with the intention of using it in Finland, Portugal, and London, including transit points. I had trouble connecting at first, but after tweaking the settings, it finally connected. I would like to use it again. " - May 11, 2024 -
Source: VOYAGE eSIM FOR EUROPE [Europe 42] eSIM 10 days/5GB
VOYAGE eSIM FOR EUROPE [Europe 42] eSIM 15 days/10GB
VOYAGE eSIM FOR EUROPE [Europe 42] eSIM 30 days/20GB
summary
In this article, we introduced how to choose the best SIM card for traveling to Moldova, especially the benefits of "eSIM" and points to note when using it. To make your trip to Moldova more comfortable and enjoyable, please consider using VOYAGEE SIM's "eSIM". Enjoy a stress-free and wonderful travel experience while immersing yourself in Moldova's beautiful scenery and culture!
