While you're abroad, it will be essential to make calls or have access to the Internet to stay connected with the world. An Iceland SIM card is the perfect option to access your email, social media, or even GPS while touring the Viking island with your rental car. Let's talk about prepaid SIM cards and answer some of the most frequently asked questions, such as whether it is possible to buy a SIM card at the airport in Iceland.
Why is an Iceland SIM card useful?
You'll find many reasons to buy an Iceland SIM card. First, it's likely that your mobile phone won’t work here. We are part of the European framework, so while most European phones work fine, phones from other parts of the world usually have trouble finding coverage. On the other hand, even if your phone works, your provider will charge you roaming fees unless you have unlimited global roaming.
Many European phone companies have plans that allow you to travel to Iceland without paying roaming fees, so I recommend checking with your phone company. However, if you have to pay for this service and have an unlocked phone, it’s much easier and more practical to use one of the prepaid SIM cards you’ll find available in Iceland. Just choose one, swap it for the SIM card in your phone, and you’ll be ready to connect to the internet, make calls, and save some Icelandic kronas.
How much does a SIM card cost in Iceland?
Prices vary depending on your needs and the company you choose. If you want a plan that includes unlimited calls or unlimited text messages, it will cost you more than buying a rechargeable card. Below, we’ll review the different prices for a SIM card and the options available.
Prepaid SIM card options in Iceland
1. Síminn
Síminn is the oldest phone company in Iceland, with the widest coverage and, therefore, the best quality. You can buy your SIM card at Keflavík airport, at a ‘Duty Free’ store, at a tourist information point, at any Síminn store, or even buy it online and have it delivered to your hotel, so you’ll have it when you arrive.
Through its website, you can choose between the 10 GB prepaid data plan or the prepaid starter package. With the starter package, you get 5 GB of data, 50 minutes of calls, and 50 text messages. Calls can be made to 55 different countries around the world. The Síminn prepaid SIM card will cost you 2,900 ISK (around 20€). If you choose the starter package, the price is the same. The credit will be valid for 30 days. I highly recommend this company for traveling to more remote areas.
2. Vodafone
Vodafone takes second place in our ranking due to its quality-price ratio. If you fly with Icelandair, you can order it in advance and pick it up on the plane or buy it onboard for 23€, including 2 GB of data, unlimited national calls and texts, and 50 minutes for international calls. Like Síminn, it gives you the option to buy it at the Duty Free store at the airport or at any Vodafone store.
3. Nova
Nova is the third largest phone company on our beloved Viking island, and its connection is sufficient if you stay in Reykjavik and its surroundings. Its website is only available in Icelandic, but it’s worth checking out because their rates are slightly cheaper.
In conclusion, there are 3 reasons I recommend buying a SIM card from Síminn or Vodafone:
1) Síminn has the best coverage in the country, with Nova, you might lose signal in remote areas.
2) You can buy a Vodafone card in advance and have it delivered on the Icelandair plane, which is convenient and practical if you fly with them.
3) The websites of Síminn and Vodafone have plenty of information in English about their prepaid plans, whereas Nova’s website is all in Icelandic, which is not very useful if you don’t speak the local language.
Keep in mind that you’ll have a new Icelandic phone number, which will be provided with the SIM card. For this reason, I recommend using mobile data for calls and texts via WhatsApp or Skype and reserving your Icelandic minutes for booking excursions, restaurants, etc.
Do you need WiFi in Iceland?
Yes, it’s highly recommended, especially if it’s your first time in Iceland. Probably, one of the reasons for going on vacation is to disconnect from everything and relax, but I’m not suggesting you buy an Iceland SIM card so you can be glued to your phone the entire trip, but for more practical purposes, like using Google Maps if you get lost or contacting someone in case of an emergency.
Some of the campsites where you stay will include WiFi, but why not have the option to connect anytime? That way, you can check the weather forecast in Iceland at any time and ensure the road conditions are safe.
Is it necessary to buy an Iceland SIM card?
Yes, it’s an easy, practical, and necessary option that will help you travel through Iceland by car, camper, or motorhome in a safer and more comfortable way. Additionally, it’s very easy to get a prepaid SIM card with data and calls. The coverage map varies from one provider to another, so you’ll be safe with Síminn. Don’t forget to bring your unlocked phone to stay connected with your loved ones!
