Top 15 Best SIMs for Travel Europe: Top Picks for Affordable and Reliable Data Plans

Marcus Shen

Content writer

Topic

Travel Buys

Published

April 8, 2024

Top 15 Best SIMs for Travel Europe: Top Picks for Affordable and Reliable Data Plans

Traveling to Europe is an exciting experience, but staying connected can be a challenge. While Wi-Fi is widely available in most places, relying on it can be unreliable and expensive. This is where a SIM card for your phone can come in handy. A SIM card is a small chip that you insert into your phone to give you access to a local network and data plan. This allows you to make calls, send texts, and use the internet without incurring roaming charges.

When it comes to choosing the best SIM card for travel in Europe, there are a few critical things to consider. The first is coverage. You want to make sure that the SIM card you choose works in the countries you plan to visit. Another important factor is data allowance. Depending on how long you'll be traveling and how much you plan to use your phone, you'll want to choose a SIM card with enough data to meet your needs. Finally, you'll want to consider the cost. While a SIM card can save you money compared to roaming charges, you'll still want to make sure you're getting a good deal.

We spent hours researching and testing various SIM cards to identify the best SIM for travel in Europe. Our top pick offers coverage in over 30 countries, generous data allowances, and competitive pricing. With this SIM card, you'll be able to stay connected while traveling without breaking the bank.

Best SIMs for Travel in Europe

If you're planning a trip to Europe, getting a local SIM card is a great way to stay connected without racking up expensive roaming charges. With so many options available, it can be difficult to know which SIM card to choose. That's why we've put together a list of the best SIM cards for travel in Europe. Our team has researched and tested each one to ensure that they offer reliable coverage, affordable rates, and easy activation. Whether you're traveling for business or pleasure, these SIM cards will help you stay connected and save money.

SIM Card for Europe

SIM Card for Europe

If you're looking for an affordable SIM card for your Europe travels, this product might be worth considering.

Pros

  • The basic plan starts at $20.99 and includes unlimited calls, texts, and 10GB of data within Europe.
  • No personal ID is required for registration, making it easy to activate the plan.
  • Works in 30 European countries.

Cons

  • The customer service is not helpful and can try to sell you grocery coupons.
  • Some users reported that the SIM card didn't work at all.
  • The signal strength may not be as strong as other SIM cards.

We've used this SIM card on our trips to Europe and found it to be a budget-friendly option. The activation process was straightforward, and we were able to start using the data, calls, and texts immediately. We appreciated the option to forward our calls to the SIM card, which saved us from incurring roaming charges.

However, we did experience some connectivity issues in certain areas, and the signal strength wasn't always reliable. We also had some trouble with the customer service when we had questions about the plan.

Overall, if you're looking for an affordable option and don't mind potentially dealing with some connectivity issues and unhelpful customer service, this SIM card could be a good choice for your Europe travels.

Note that the European SIM card is sold as part of an instructional kit, which includes a case to protect other SIM cards and a SIM card removal tool. You must then activate the plan from their website by choosing the dates you travel.

TSIM PrePaid Europe (UK Three) 10GB Europe SIM Card with 30 Days Validity (10Gb)

TSIM PrePaid Europe (UK Three) 10GB Europe SIM Card with 30 Days Validity (10Gb)

If you're looking for a SIM card that lets you roam around Europe with ease, then the TSIM PrePaid Europe (UK Three) 10GB Europe SIM Card with 30 Days Validity (10Gb) might be a good option for you.

Pros

  • Roam Europe with a single UK number
  • 10GB Data (4g/5g speeds)
  • Unlimited local calls and text within Europe (when in Europe)

Cons

  • Cannot call USA or another country outside Europe
  • Calls must be made in full international format
  • No activation on Sundays

We used this SIM card on our recent trip to Europe and found it to be convenient and hassle-free. With a single UK number, we were able to stay connected with our friends and family back home without the need to switch SIM cards or buy a new one in every country we visited. The 10GB data allowance was more than enough for our needs, and we were able to stream videos, browse social media, and use Google Maps without any issues.

One downside of this SIM card is that you cannot call USA or another country outside Europe. Calls must be made in full international format, which might be confusing for some users. Also, there is no activation on Sundays, so make sure to plan accordingly.

Overall, if you're looking for a SIM card that works well in Europe and offers good value for money, then the TSIM PrePaid Europe (UK Three) 10GB Europe SIM Card with 30 Days Validity (10Gb) is worth considering.

TSIM

12GB 14 Day Orange Europe SIM Card, 30 Minutes Calls+200 Texts to Worldwide. Fresh Stock, Upgraded Offer!

If you're traveling to Europe and need a reliable SIM card, we recommend the TSIM. With its high-speed data, unlimited local calling, and compatibility with all devices, it's a great choice for travelers.

Pros

  • 12GB of high-speed data on 4G/5G networks in Europe, with data tethering and hotspot use allowed
  • Unlimited local calling in Europe using the provided French number
  • 30 minutes of calling and 200 texts from Europe to any other country

Cons

  • The SIM card only has a validity of 14 days from first use, but it can be extended for an additional charge on the operator's website
  • The phone number provided with the SIM card is a French number, which may not be ideal for some travelers
  • The data may not work in all areas, especially in countries outside of France

We recently used the TSIM during our trip to Europe and were impressed with its performance. The high-speed data allowed us to stay connected and use our devices without any issues, and the unlimited local calling was a great convenience. The SIM card was also easy to install and worked seamlessly with all of our devices.

One thing to keep in mind is that the SIM card only has a validity of 14 days from first use, so if you're planning on staying in Europe for longer, you'll need to extend it for an additional charge on the operator's website. Additionally, the phone number provided with the SIM card is a French number, which may not be ideal for some travelers.

Overall, we highly recommend the TSIM for anyone traveling to Europe who needs a reliable SIM card. With its high-speed data, unlimited local calling, and compatibility with all devices, it's a great choice for travelers.

Three Mobile PrePaid Europe SIM Card

Three Mobile PrePaid Europe SIM Card

If you're looking for a reliable SIM card for your European travels, then the Three Mobile PrePaid Europe SIM Card is worth considering.

Pros

  • The SIM card provides 12GB of data, 3000 voice minutes, and 3000 texts for 30 days of use, making it ideal for longer trips.
  • The SIM card covers 71 destinations, including all European countries, the USA, Brazil, Australia, New Zealand, Hong Kong, and Singapore.
  • The activation process is straightforward, and the SIM card is suitable for all cell phones.

Cons

  • The 3000 voice minutes and 3000 texts can only be used to call UK and European numbers while you are in Europe.
  • You can only use the SIM card in a phone - no tethering, personal hotspot, or video streaming allowed.
  • The 4G signal is available dependent on geographical locations, so it's best to check the Three website for further information.

The Three Mobile PrePaid Europe SIM Card is an excellent choice for those who need reliable data and voice coverage while traveling in Europe. The 12GB data allowance is more than enough for most people, and the 3000 voice minutes and 3000 texts provide added convenience.

The SIM card covers 71 destinations, including all European countries, the USA, Brazil, Australia, New Zealand, Hong Kong, and Singapore. This makes it an excellent choice for those who plan to travel to multiple countries during their trip.

The activation process is straightforward, and the SIM card is suitable for all cell phones. Once you insert the SIM card into your phone and enable roaming in settings, you'll be ready to use it. You can also check your balance by calling 333 from your handset and choosing option 3.

However, there are some limitations to the Three Mobile PrePaid Europe SIM Card. The 3000 voice minutes and 3000 texts can only be used to call UK and European numbers while you are in Europe. You can only use the SIM card in a phone - no tethering, personal hotspot, or video streaming allowed. Finally, the 4G signal is available dependent on geographical locations, so it's best to check the Three website for further information.

In conclusion, if you're looking for a reliable SIM card for your European travels, the Three Mobile PrePaid Europe SIM Card is an excellent choice. It provides ample data and voice coverage, is easy to activate, and covers multiple destinations.

Snail Mobile Europe Travel/Holiday 28 Days Plan SIM Card Unlimited 4G LTE Internet Date in 30+ Countries in Europe

Snail Mobile Europe Travel/Holiday 28 Days Plan SIM Card Unlimited 4G LTE Internet Date in 30+ Countries in Europe

If you're looking for a reliable SIM card for your European travels, Snail Mobile's Europe Travel/Holiday 28 Days Plan SIM Card is definitely worth considering.

Pros

  • Unlimited data for 28 days with 5G internet in Europe
  • 3-in-1 SIM card for all phones
  • Live customer support available

Cons

  • Limited to 30+ countries in Europe
  • No voice calls or texts included
  • No option for shorter duration plans

We used this SIM card during our recent trip to Europe and were impressed with its performance. The unlimited data plan with 5G internet was perfect for our needs, and we never experienced any issues with connectivity or speed.

The 3-in-1 SIM card made it easy to use with any phone, and we appreciated the convenience of not having to worry about compatibility issues. In case we had any questions or concerns, the live customer support was available to help us out.

However, it's important to note that this SIM card is only valid in 30+ countries in Europe, so if you plan on traveling outside of that area, you'll need to purchase a different SIM card. Additionally, voice calls and texts are not included in the plan, so you'll need to use a separate app or service for those needs. Finally, there are no options for shorter duration plans, so this may not be the best option if you're only traveling for a few days.

Overall, we highly recommend the Snail Mobile Europe Travel/Holiday 28 Days Plan SIM Card for anyone traveling to Europe for an extended period of time and in need of reliable and affordable data connectivity.

Giffgiss Europe Prepaid SIM Card

Giffgiss Europe Prepaid SIM Card

We recommend purchasing the Giffgiss Europe Prepaid SIM Card for travelers heading to Europe who require internet data and calling capabilities.

Pros

  • Provides 50GB internet data and unlimited calls in Spain
  • Covers 30 countries in Europe
  • Triple cut sim card fits all unlocked smartphones

Cons

  • Cannot be used in the UK, Switzerland, and Turkey
  • Deductions may occur if the SIM card is inserted before arrival
  • Service is not cheap

The Giffgiss Europe Prepaid SIM Card is a great choice for those traveling to Europe who need reliable internet data and calling capabilities. With 50GB of internet data and unlimited calls in Spain, this SIM card is perfect for those who will be in Spain for an extended period. Additionally, the card covers 30 countries in Europe, making it a great option for those who plan to travel extensively throughout the continent. The triple cut sim card fits all unlocked smartphones, ensuring that it will work with most devices.

However, there are some drawbacks to the Giffgiss Europe Prepaid SIM Card. It cannot be used in the UK, Switzerland, and Turkey, which may be inconvenient for some travelers. Deductions may occur if the SIM card is inserted before arrival, so it is important to wait until arriving at the destination before inserting the card. Lastly, the service is not cheap, so travelers on a budget may want to consider other options.

In conclusion, the Giffgiss Europe Prepaid SIM Card is a reliable option for travelers who require internet data and calling capabilities while in Europe. However, it may not be the best choice for those on a tight budget or traveling to certain countries.

5GB Bundle - Europe Data SIM Card - 33 Countries - Dataroam - Cellhire

5GB Bundle - Europe Data SIM Card - 33 Countries - Dataroam - Cellhire

If you're traveling to Europe and need data, the 5GB Bundle - Europe Data SIM Card from Cellhire is a solid choice.

Pros

  • Fast 4G data roaming speeds
  • Self-activated SIM
  • No overage charges

Cons

  • Your device must be unlocked
  • It is not possible to add additional data
  • No SMS (Texting)

We used this SIM card on a recent trip to Europe and were pleased with the fast 4G data speeds. The self-activated SIM made it easy to get up and running, and we appreciated not having to worry about overage charges.

However, it's important to note that your device must be unlocked in order to use this SIM card. Additionally, it's not possible to add additional data if you run out, so be sure to purchase enough for your trip. Finally, this SIM card only provides data - no standard voice calls or SMS.

Overall, if you need reliable data while traveling in Europe, the 5GB Bundle - Europe Data SIM Card from Cellhire is a good choice.

SIM2ROAM Europe Data SIM Card Prepaid 10GB 30 Days | 5G/4G/LTD High Speed Data - France, UK, Germany, Italy, Spain, Ireland, Sweden, Europe Roaming Free (10GB / 30Days)

SIM2ROAM Europe Data SIM Card Prepaid 10GB 30 Days | 5G/4G/LTD High Speed Data - France, UK, Germany, Italy, Spain, Ireland, Sweden, Europe Roaming Free (10GB / 30Days)

If you're planning to travel to Europe, the SIM2ROAM Europe Data SIM Card Prepaid 10GB 30 Days is a great option to stay connected.

Pros

  • Easy to use: Simply plug in and use, no need for activation
  • Refillable plan, sim card rechargeable
  • Tri-cut SIM will fit every model of cellphone

Cons

  • Your device must be unlocked
  • Some users have reported slow internet speeds in certain countries
  • No phone calls or SMS

We used this SIM card on our recent trip to Europe and it was a lifesaver. We were able to stay connected with our loved ones back home and navigate our way around the cities with ease. The SIM card is easy to use, just plug it in and start using it. We also appreciated that the plan is refillable, so we didn't have to worry about running out of data during our trip.

One thing to keep in mind is that your device must be unlocked to use this SIM card. We also experienced some slow internet speeds in certain countries, but overall it was still a great option for staying connected while traveling.

In terms of coverage, the SIM2ROAM Europe Data SIM Card Prepaid 10GB 30 Days covers a wide range of European countries, including Andorra, Germany, Austria, Belgium, Croatia, Denmark, Spain, Estonia, Finland, France, Gibraltar, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, the Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Czech Republic, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Sweden, and Switzerland.

Overall, we highly recommend the SIM2ROAM Europe Data SIM Card Prepaid 10GB 30 Days for anyone planning to travel to Europe. It's a convenient and affordable way to stay connected while on the go.

TSIM Ultra High Speed Voice + Data SIM Card for Travel to Europe

TSIM SIM Card

If you're planning a trip to Europe and want to stay connected without breaking the bank, the TSIM Ultra High Speed Voice + Data SIM Card for Travel to Europe might be just what you need.

Pros

  • Covers 34 countries in Europe, including Switzerland, Turkey, and more
  • Unlimited incoming and outgoing local calls, plus calls back to the USA using provided Spanish +34 number
  • Works in the USA too, making it a great option for testing the SIM card and setting up your vacation

Cons

  • Prepaid SIM card, so you'll need to pay upfront for your data, calls, and texts
  • Signal can be weak in some areas, so you may need to rely on Wi-Fi in certain places
  • Activation process can be a bit confusing, and there's no activation on Sundays

We used the TSIM SIM card on a recent trip to Europe and found it to be a reliable option for staying connected on the go. With coverage in 34 countries, we were able to use it in a variety of different locations without any issues. The unlimited incoming and outgoing local calls were a nice bonus, and we appreciated being able to call back to the USA using the provided Spanish number.

One thing to keep in mind is that the SIM card is prepaid, so you'll need to pay upfront for your data, calls, and texts. This can be a bit of a hassle, but it does mean that you won't have to worry about any surprise charges or overage fees. Additionally, the signal can be weak in some areas, so you may need to rely on Wi-Fi in certain places.

Overall, we would recommend the TSIM Ultra High Speed Voice + Data SIM Card for Travel to Europe to anyone looking for an affordable and reliable way to stay connected while traveling abroad. Just be sure to follow the activation process carefully and keep in mind that it's a prepaid SIM card.

MEWFI UK SIM Card

MEWFI UK SIM Card

If you're planning a trip to Europe and need a reliable SIM card for your phone, the MEWFI UK SIM Card might be worth considering.

Pros

  • Unlimited local calls and text messages
  • 12GB EU or 25GB UK internet data
  • 3G/4G/5G high-speed network coverage in 72 countries

Cons

  • Must activate the SIM card through a specific website before use
  • Not suitable for use in the United States
  • May have issues with hotspot usage in Europe

We recently used the MEWFI UK SIM Card on a trip to Europe and found it to be a convenient and cost-effective option for staying connected while traveling. The unlimited local calls and text messages were particularly useful for making reservations and keeping in touch with friends and family.

One potential downside is that the SIM card must be activated through a specific website before use, so make sure to follow the instructions carefully. Additionally, the card should not be used in the United States, as it will not work properly and may become unavailable in Europe. Finally, we experienced some issues with hotspot usage in Europe, so be cautious when using this feature.

Overall, we recommend the MEWFI UK SIM Card for anyone traveling to Europe who needs a reliable and affordable way to stay connected.

Orange Holiday Europe

Orange Holiday Europe

If you're looking for a reliable sim card for your European travels, we recommend the Orange Holiday Europe.

Pros

  • 3GB of internet in Europe on 4G networks (8GB promotion activated automatically for sims activated before July 9th 2020) - data tethering and use in hotspots allowed
  • 30 minutes and 200 texts from Europe to worldwide
  • Triple cut SIM card (standard/micro/nano). No activation, easy to use. Work on any unlocked device

Cons

  • Some users reported issues with calling and texting reliability
  • Data may run out quickly for heavy users
  • Some users may prefer a sim card with more coverage in additional countries outside of the 30 listed

We recently used this sim card on a trip to Spain and found it to be easy to use and reliable. The 3GB of internet was more than enough for our needs, and the ability to tether and use hotspots was a bonus. The sim card worked seamlessly with our unlocked devices, and the triple cut feature made it easy to switch between devices.

While we didn't use the included calling and texting features extensively, we did experience some reliability issues with them. However, this may vary depending on the user's location and device.

Overall, we recommend the Orange Holiday Europe sim card for travelers looking for a cost-effective and easy-to-use option for their European travels.

SimCorner Europe UK Travel SIM Card

SimCorner Europe UK Travel SIM Card

If you're planning a trip to Europe and the UK, the SimCorner Europe UK Travel SIM Card is a great option to stay connected with family and friends during your travel. With 19GB of data and unlimited minutes for local calls to standard landlines and mobiles, this prepaid travel SIM card offers a productive and effective solution for internet connectivity and communication.

Pros

  • Comes with a 3-in-1 sim card that includes Standard, Micro, and Nano.
  • Offers unlimited minutes for local calls to standard landlines and mobiles.
  • Allows mobile hot-spotting and tethering with prepaid travel SIM card for iPhones and Android phones.

Cons

  • Can only be used in Mobiles Phones, iPads, and Tablets.
  • The sim card uses 3UK for carrier, not O2 as advertised.
  • Some users have reported difficulty setting up the sim card.

We used the SimCorner Europe UK Travel SIM Card during our recent trip to Europe and found it to be a reliable and cost-effective option for staying connected. The prepaid data SIM card UK Europe gives you 19 GB of data with a validity of 28 days, which was more than enough for our needs. The unlimited minutes for local calls to standard landlines and mobiles were also a great feature that saved us money on international calling.

One thing to note is that the sim card uses 3UK for carrier, not O2 as advertised. While this didn't affect our experience, it may be important for some travelers to know. Additionally, some users have reported difficulty setting up the sim card, so be sure to follow the instructions carefully.

Overall, we would recommend the SimCorner Europe UK Travel SIM Card for anyone looking for a reliable and cost-effective option for staying connected during their travels in Europe and the UK.

Buying Guide

When it comes to choosing the best SIM card for travel in Europe, there are a few things to consider to ensure you get the most out of your purchase. Here are some factors to keep in mind:

Coverage

First and foremost, you want to make sure that the SIM card you choose provides coverage in the countries you'll be visiting. Check the coverage map provided by the carrier to ensure that you'll have service in the areas you plan to visit.

Data Allowance

The amount of data you'll need will depend on your usage habits. If you plan to use your phone to navigate, stream music, or use social media, you'll want a SIM card with a higher data allowance. On the other hand, if you plan to use your phone primarily for calls and texts, a lower data allowance may suffice.

Cost

SIM cards can vary in price, so it's important to consider the cost of the card and any associated fees, such as activation or shipping fees. Additionally, some SIM cards may offer discounts or promotions for longer-term use, so consider your travel plans when making your purchase.

Duration

Consider how long you'll be traveling and how long you'll need the SIM card. Some SIM cards may have expiration dates or require recharging after a certain period of time, so be sure to choose one that fits your travel plans.

Additional Features

Some SIM cards may offer additional features, such as the ability to use your phone as a hotspot or access to free Wi-Fi hotspots. Consider any additional features that may be important to you when making your purchase.

By keeping these factors in mind, you'll be able to choose a SIM card that provides the coverage, data allowance, and additional features you need for your travels in Europe.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best international SIM card companies for travel in Europe?

There are several international SIM card companies that offer good options for travelers in Europe. Some of the popular ones include WorldSIM, SimCorner, and GoSim.

What is the average cost of SIM cards in Europe for travelers?

The cost of SIM cards in Europe varies depending on the country and the provider. However, you can expect to pay around €10-20 for a basic SIM card with data and calls.

Which global SIM card offers the best data plans for travel in Europe?

The best global SIM card for data plans in Europe is subjective and depends on your needs. However, some popular options include OneSimCard, Keepgo, and TravelSIM.

Is the Orange Holiday Europe SIM card a good option for traveling in Europe?

The Orange Holiday Europe SIM card is a good option for travelers in Europe. It offers 20GB of data, unlimited calls and texts within Europe, and 120 minutes of international calls for €39.99.

What are some recommended SIM cards for iPhone use while traveling in Europe?

Some recommended SIM cards for iPhone use while traveling in Europe include Three UK, Vodafone, and EE. These providers offer good coverage and data plans for iPhone users.

Are there any SIM cards that work throughout all of Europe for travelers?

Yes, there are SIM cards that work throughout all of Europe for travelers. Some popular options include the Three UK Pay As You Go SIM, Vodafone Pay As You Go SIM, and Orange Holiday Europe SIM card.

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Hi there! My name is Marcus, and I'm thrilled to be a Content Writer at Arctrav.

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