Vietnam is a country that captivates travelers with its delicious food, friendly people, and stunning scenery. It's also known for its super fast and affordable mobile data, making it easy for visitors to stay connected while exploring this beautiful country. In this article, we will compare the top SIM card providers in Vietnam - Viettel, MobiFone, and Vinaphone - to help you choose the best one for your trip.
Why You Need a SIM Card in Vietnam
While most hotels and restaurants in Vietnam offer free WiFi, having a SIM card can be incredibly useful. It allows you to use ride-hailing apps like Grab, navigate with Google Maps, and communicate with locals using Google Translate. Additionally, purchasing a prepaid SIM card in Vietnam is very affordable, making it a worthwhile investment.
Where to Buy a SIM Card in Vietnam
There are numerous places where you can purchase a SIM card in Vietnam, including travel agencies, local stores, and even some hotels. However, we recommend buying your SIM card either at the airport or at one of the official stores of the mobile network providers.
Buying a Vietnamese SIM Card at the Airport
The easiest and most convenient option is to buy a SIM card at the airport. As soon as you exit the baggage claim area, you'll find kiosks selling SIM cards from different providers. The prices should be relatively similar, so feel free to check a few kiosks to ensure you're getting a fair price. Buying at the airport has the advantage of quick and efficient registration and activation of the SIM card, and you can immediately use ride-hailing services to get to your destination.
Buying a SIM Card at a Travel Agency or Hotel
While you may be tempted to buy a SIM card from a travel agency or local shop, we advise against it. Since 2016, every mobile SIM card in Vietnam must be registered to the user. Travel agencies and local shops may not have the experience or willingness to properly register your SIM card, resulting in it being shut off during your trip. If you do purchase from a local shop, make sure to verify registration by texting "TTTB" to 1414.
Buying a Vietnamese SIM Card at the Telecom Office
If you didn't buy a SIM card at the airport, head directly to one of the branch offices of the telecom companies. Viettel has convenient offices in both Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City. Remember to bring your passport for registration when purchasing a new SIM card.
How Much Does a SIM Card Cost in Vietnam?
One of the best things about buying a Vietnam SIM card is its affordability. For less than $20 USD, you can have a month of practically limitless high-speed data. Prices may vary depending on the deals offered by the providers, but expect to pay between 150,000-350,000 VND ($6.50-$15 USD) for a SIM card and data package.
Viettel vs. MobiFone vs. Vinaphone
Of the four mobile carriers in Vietnam - Viettel, MobiFone, Vinaphone, and Vietnamobile - Viettel has the largest network and the most customers. Vinaphone offers good coverage but has had some issues in the past. MobiFone is great in the city but may face difficulties in remote areas. Vietnamobile has limited coverage and is not recommended.
Recharging/Topping-up Your Vietnam SIM Card
If you need to add credit to your SIM card for local calls or texts, scratch-off vouchers are available at convenience stores. Alternatively, you can use the online service Recharge.com, which allows you to add credit using PayPal or a credit card.
In conclusion, purchasing a SIM card in Vietnam is highly recommended. Viettel stands out as the best provider, offering excellent coverage and conveniently located stores in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City. Stay connected and make the most of your trip to Vietnam with a reliable SIM card.
Have you been to Vietnam? What do you think is the best Vietnamese SIM card? Share your experience with us!
