My real experience on how to buy eSIM in Vietnam, how much is a SIM card in Vietnam, where to get one, and tips to stay connected affordably during your trip.
Today when I arrived in Da Nang, I went to the airport and bought a tourist sim, maybe I have been to many countries so I feel that each country has a different way of selling and pricing sim cards, and I think at 123dzovietnam.com I also need to share my experience how to buy esim in Vietnam with you.
How much is a sim card in Vietnam?
In Vietnam In Vietnam, there are four main network operators: Viettel, Vinaphone, Mobifone, and Vietnamobile. Of which, Viettel has the strongest coverage, especially in rural and mountainous areas.
The price of a SIM card for foreigners is usually around 100,000 – 200,000 VND (ie 4-8 USD), including 5-10GB of data for 30 days. You can buy a SIM or eSIM at the airport, convenience stores, or authorized dealers. I have been to Da Nang many times, so if you want to know what activities in Da Nang like paragliding da nang, please refer to my experience.
For me, considering how much is a sim card in Vietnam vs other countries, this price is completely worth it. The internet speed is fast, the setup is quick, and I can use the phone to view maps, use social networks and even make video calls without any problems. If your phone supports eSIM, everything is even more convenient, you can activate it online before arriving.
How to buy eSIM in Vietnam according to my real experience at Da Nang airport
When I arrived at Da Nang International Airport, the first thing I did was find a SIM card to get internet right away. After getting my luggage, I easily saw many SIM counters along the exit in the international arrivals area. There are all the major carriers such as Viettel, Vinaphone, Mobifone, and a few agents selling eSIM for tourists.
Airport SIM prices are usually a bit higher than in the city, around 150,000–200,000 VND (6–10 USD) depending on the data package. I chose a Viettel package with 10GB for 30 days – the staff installed it for me on the spot and checked the signal before leaving, so I was quite reassured.
However, if you are staying in Vietnam for a long time, I recommend using the airport SIM only temporarily, then going to the official store in the city to re-register your information and choose a cheaper package. For those who are only traveling for a few days, buying it right at the airport is the fastest and most convenient way.
A small tip is to carefully check the SIM and data package before paying, and ask the staff to install and activate it for you. This way, you will avoid the situation of the SIM not being registered and other Question Marks that makes you wonder why your SIM isn’t working after leaving the airport.
How I Check and Buy eSIM in Vietnam via Airalo
Step 1: Check if your phone supports eSIM
First, I go to the Airalo guide page to see if my phone is on the list of supported eSIMs. The list is very detailed, so I can quickly check in just a few seconds.
Step 2: Check if the phone is unlocked
Next, I make sure my phone is unlocked. If the phone is locked by the carrier, the international eSIM will not work, so I always double-check before traveling.
Step 3: Buy and install the Airalo eSIM
After making sure that the device is compatible, I open the Airalo app, choose the eSIM package that suits my trip and follow the installation instructions. Everything takes only a few minutes.
When finished, my phone will automatically connect to one of the three largest networks in Vietnam: Viettel, Mobifone or Vinaphone. I have used Airalo many times and always found the signal strong, the network access fast, very convenient when landing and having internet right away.
How to use a physical SIM card in Vietnam?
If your phone does not support eSIM, or you simply want a physical SIM card with your own mobile phone number, then receiving the SIM card right at the airport is the most convenient option.
I often pre-order a SIM card on Klook to receive it upon arrival. This way, I know the price in advance, without having to bargain or learn how to buy eSIM in Vietnam from scratch after a long flight. Paying by credit card is also very easy, while many random SIM card sellers at the airport only accept cash.
Klook acts as a platform connecting travelers with SIM card providers at the airport. While there is still a chance of finding a low-quality SIM card, the risk is much lower than buying directly from an unknown source.
If you are only in Vietnam for a few days or a week, I think booking a SIM card through Klook is the most reasonable option — it is fast, convenient, and only costs up to 10 USD.
If you are staying longer, it is best to go to an official store of Viettel, Mobifone, or Vinaphone to register for a Long-term package. Genuine SIM cards are more stable, avoiding the risk of disconnection or difficulty in recharging later.
My strategy is usually: book a cheap SIM card on Klook to use as soon as I land, then, once I have settled in, I will buy an official package at the carrier’s store. Don’t forget to bring your passport when registering.
Conclusion
In summary, learning how to buy eSIM in Vietnam is now very easy and convenient for international visitors. Just check if your phone supports eSIM, then choose a reputable signal provider like Airalo to set up before your trip. This way, you can save time, avoid hassle at the airport and be able to connect to the internet as soon as you arrive in Vietnam.
