Want to stay connected while in Vietnam?
Let’s face it:
Landing in a new foreign country is both scary and exciting. There is nothing worse than getting into a taxi, telling them your address and realizing that they could be taking you anywhere.
On the flip side…
Buying a physical SIM card at the airport is a huge hassle and you often get ripped off. After all, they can jack up the price and you wouldn’t know, right?
Here’s the good news:
There are a number of great eSIM Vietnam plans available that will ensure you stay connected while visiting the country. You can buy them before you leave your home country and install them as soon as you land in Vietnam.
Before you even leave the airport, you are connected to the world again!
Sound better?
In this blog, we have put together the 5 best eSIMs in Vietnam so you can enjoy your trip without having to worry about data.
5x Best eSIM Vietnam Providers & Plans
What are the best eSIM Vietnam plans?
If you are looking for a quick answer, these are the top 5 Vietnam eSIM providers right now:
- GIGAGO – Best Vietnam eSIM Overall (Our Choice)
- Holafly – Best Vietnam eSIM For Unlimited Data
- Airalo – Best Vietnam eSIM For Easy Use
- Nomad – Best Vietnam eSIM For Most Flexible Plans
- Airhub – Best Vietnam eSIM For Shorter Trips
As you can see there are several great eSIM carriers in Vietnam. We’ve included a brief overview of each one below, along with some pros and cons so you know just what to expect.
1. GIGAGO
GIGAGO was the first eSIM provider in Vietnam!
They are also the only local Vietnam eSIM provider on this list and the only provider to offer a local Vietnamese phone number and calls and texts in some of their plans.
Here’s why that’s important:
GIGAGO has connected with local mobile network operators which means you are getting the best performance possible while traveling around the country. You get all the benefits of a local SIM card but you can purchase it before you even board the flight to Vietnam.
Cool, right?
GIGAGO offers convenient and affordable data plans for tourists. They cater to a wide range of travelers and have done a good job at making it easy to stay connected during your trip.
But the big question is…
How much does it cost?
The good news is that GIGAGO eSIM plans are pretty affordable. Here are all the GIGAGO eSIM Vietnam plans available right now:
| Plan | Data Included | Days Valid | Price (USD) |
| GIGA7 | 7GB | 8 Days | $8.90 |
| GIGA7U | Unlimited | 7 Days | $9.90 |
| GIGA10 | 10GB | 16 Days | $11.90 |
| GIGA10U | Unlimited | 10 Days | $11.90 |
| GIGA15 | 15GB | 30 Days | $14.90 |
| GIGA15U | Unlimited | 15 Days | $14.90 |
| GIGA30U | Unlimited | 30 Days | $18.90 |
| GIG30UV | Unlimited + Calls | 30 Days | $19.90 |
GIGAGO has done a good job of offering a range of plans to suit different travelers.
If you are a tourist coming for a short trip, they have plans ranging from 7-15 days.
But if you are spending longer in the country – you can go for a 30-day plan. You also have the option to choose whether to include local calls + texts in your plan.
What this really means is that you only ever pay for what you need. You have the flexibility to choose a plan that suits your lifestyle and budget.
Setting up your eSIM with GIGAGO is reasonably straightforward. They will send you a QR code via email and you just need to follow the setup instructions.
The whole thing takes a couple of minutes, max!
But there are a couple of things to keep in mind before you buy:
Most of the unlimited plans include a certain amount of data before the speed drops. For example, the GIGA15U includes 4GB of data daily at high speeds and then it drops to just 128kbps.
For context, 128kbps probably wouldn’t load a basic web page. You might be able to receive a WhatsApp message or email, but probably couldn’t send one back.
So while the plan is “unlimited”, it’s not exactly what you think.
I personally don’t think this is a deal breaker because we never went over the 4GB of high-speed data per day while we were in Vietnam. But you just need to keep that in mind!
GIGAGO Pros & Cons
GIGAGO Pros:
- Affordable data plans
- Simple setup process
- Reliable nationwide coverage
- Only provider to offer plans with local calls
- Receive a local number
- First Vietnam eSIM provider
GIGAGO Cons:
- Plans are not all straightforward
- Limitations on the unlimited plans
- Limited tethering/hotspot capabilities
After trying different eSIMs in Vietnam we found that GIGAGO was the best in terms of performance and also a reasonable price. We often had data in more rural areas – even when our friends didn’t.
The value they offer easily makes them the best eSIM in Vietnam.
But just make sure you read exactly what’s included before you buy a plan. It’s not exactly straightforward like you might expect.
2. Holafly
Do you use a lot of data?
Holafly is probably the best place to get your eSIM in Vietnam.
Here’s why:
Holafly offers the best unlimited eSIMs in Vietnam. And you have a large range of plans to choose from, ranging from 5 days to up to 90 days.
So no matter how long you are in Vietnam you won’t have to worry about running out of data.
What’s more, Holafly doesn’t place any caps and won’t throttle your speeds after a certain amount of usage. This is why we would opt for Holafly over GIGAGO if you are really going to burn through the data (or just don’t want to worry about it).
Here’s a breakdown of Holafly’s eSIM data plans and what is included:
| Data Included | Days Valid | Price (USD) |
| Unlimited | 5 Days | $19.00 |
| Unlimited | 7 Days | $27.00 |
| Unlimited | 10 Days | $34.00 |
| Unlimited | 15 Days | $47.00 |
| Unlimited | 20 Days | $54.00 |
| Unlimited | 30 Days | $64.00 |
| Unlimited | 60 Days | $84.00 |
| Unlimited | 90 Days | $99.00 |
Holafly does cost more than most of the other Vietnam eSIM providers on this list.
But the unlimited data and 4g/LTE performance means you can be confident in what you are buying. Think of it as the Rolls Royce of Vietnam eSIMs.
They also have 24/7 live support through the chat widget on their website. That’s a big plus in case you get stuck and need help quickly.
But there is one thing that you need to keep in mind:
Holafly doesn’t allow you to tether/hotspot on any of their eSIMs. While we found the wifi in Vietnam to be pretty good, just remember you won’t have the hotspot option.
Holafly Pros and Cons
Holafly Pros:
- Great unlimited data plans
- Excellent and fast performance
- 24/7 live customer support
- Really easy setup process
- Great phone app to manage your plan
Holafly Cons:
- No local Vietnamese phone number included
- No tethering or hotspot data sharing
- Data-only plans available
If you need unlimited data then you won’t do much better than Holafly. We have used them in multiple countries and found them to be really reliable.
Get 5% off your Holafly eSIM by clicking here and use discount code TWOTICKETSANYWHERE at the checkout.
3. Airalo
Airalo is one of the best eSIM providers.
We have used them tons of times in lots of different countries around the world.
Here’s why we love them:
- They have the best eSIM app
- They offer a wide range of eSIM plans
- They cater to different types of travelers
Need I say more?
Airalo’s Vietnam eSIMs offer good value for money and a nice range of plans whether you are there for a week or a month.
Here is a complete list of Airalo’s eSIM Vietnam plans and what’s included:
| Data Included | Days Valid | Price (USD) |
| 1GB | 7 Days | $4.50 |
| 2GB | 15 Days | $7.00 |
| 3GB | 30 Days | $9.50 |
| 5GB | 30 Days | $13.00 |
| 10GB | 30 Days | $21.00 |
| 20GB | 30 Days | $32.00 |
While on the lower end of data amount, all of Airlalo’s Vietnamese eSIM plans are very affordable. Especially when you compare them with local SIM cards.
Airalo also has one of the best eSIM apps. It offers a user-friendly interface and a seamless setup process from your eSIM. You can purchase and install your eSIM with just a few taps on your phone.
It’s also worth mentioning that Airalo has a bunch of eSIM plans that include most countries in Southeast Asia. So if you are traveling to a number of countries in Asia including Vietnam, it might be worth checking out their Asia regional plan.
We have used Airalo in tons of countries and even rate them as providing the best eSIM for Europe.
Airalo Pros and Cons
Airalo Pros:
- Easy-to-use app and setup process
- Great customer service and support through the app
- Affordable pricing
- Wide range of eSIM plans for different travel reasons
Airalo Cons:
- No unlimited options
- Data-only plans available
- No local Vietnamese phone number included
Airalo is highly regarded as one of the best eSIM providers in the world. We found their eSIM Vietnam plans to be reliable and affordable.
The fact that they have such a great app is a huge bonus!
New Airalo users can get an additional 15% discount with promo code TTA15 and existing Airalo users can get 10% off with promo TTA10.
If you want to learn more about Airalo, check out our complete Airalo review.
4. Nomad
Nomad is a popular choice for visitors in Vietnam – especially for digital nomads.
Their eSIM offering focuses on providing a seamless experience with a solid cellular data connection throughout your trip.
Nomad offers a variety of data plans to suit any traveler’s needs. They are all designed to be fast, hassle-free and budget-friendly. Sounds good, right?
Considering Nomad’s target market, it’s ideal for those who want to prioritize convenience without sacrificing quality.
Here is a list of the eSIM Vietnam data plans that Nomad offers:
| Data Included | Days Valid | Price (USD) |
| 1GB | 7 Days | $4.00 |
| 3GB | 30 Days | $9.00 |
| 5GB | 30 Days | $13.00 |
| 10GB | 30 Days | $22.00 |
| 15GB | 30 Days | $28.00 |
| 20 GB | 30 Days | $34.00 |
| 30 GB | 30 Days | $80.00 |
| 40 GB | 30 Days | $110.00 |
| 50 GB | 30 Days | $125.00 |
Decent range of plans, right?
Nomad stands out as the best choice for shorter trips to Vietnam because they offer good value for money on their lower-priced eSIM plans. But if you enjoy the convenience of the Nomad app and need more data, they also have larger plans available.
Nomad Pros and Cons
Nomad Pros:
- A seamless app that is easy to use on the go
- Affordable prices with flexible plan options
- Easy setup and activation
- Great 24/7 support and customer service
Nomad Cons:
- Limited to 30-day validity max
- No unlimited data plans are available
- No local Vietnamese phone number included
- No plans that include calls and text
Nomad is a great option for those who need a flexible range of plans with a good amount of data. They have a reputation for providing great customer service and we found their installation instructions to be one of the best for eSIMs in Vietnam.
Want to learn more about Nomad?
Make sure that you read through our complete Nomad eSIM review to see everything they have to offer.
5. Airhub
Airhub is another good choice for visitors to Vietnam.
Whether it’s a short trip or an extended vacation, Airhub has a good range of affordable eSIM data plans.
I really like Airhub’s installation process. It’s a seamless process, from the moment you buy the eSIM card to scanning the QR code on your phone to automatically install it.
But what makes Airhub stand out from the rest is its unique plans. They work with multiple eSIM providers in Vietnam. Here is some of what they offer.
| Data Included | Days Valid | Price (USD) |
| 6GB | 8 Days | $15.00 |
| 10GB | 30 Days | $29.00 |
| Unlimited | 5 Days | $18.00 |
| Unlimited | 10 Days | $33.00 |
| Unlimited | 15 Days | $45.00 |
| Unlimited | 30 Days | $59.90 |
If you are staying in Vietnam for just a short time, then it’s definitely worth checking out Airhub. There is no doubt that Airhub offers you good value for your money.
They also have a decent app so you can manage your plan on the go!
Airhub Pros & Cons
Pros:
- Affordable data plans
- Easy activation process
- Great app to manage the plan
Cons:
- Limited data offerings for longer trips
- No plans that include calls and text
- Charge an added service fee at checkout
- No local Vietnamese phone number included
The only downside to Airhub is the additional charges of a service fee they chuck on at the end of the checkout process.
Click here and don’t forget to use promo code AHTTA3 to get a 3% discount on your Airhub eSIM order at checkout.
Learn more about Airhub by reading our full Airhub eSIM review.
How To Choose The Best Vietnam eSIM Your Trip
When choosing your Vietnam eSIM card, there are a few things to keep in mind. Here are some of the key points to consider when buying an eSIM in Vietnam:
- Validity Period: How long are you spending in Vietnam? Plans can range from 7 days to 90 days, depending on the provider you choose. Validity is also a big factor in price: the more days you have, the more money you pay.
- Network Coverage: Check the coverage of the eSIM provider you are considering. Some providers may have better coverage in certain areas of Vietnam than others. GIGAGO is one of the best for this!
- Data Plans: Consider the amount of data you will need during your stay in Vietnam. Some eSIM providers like Holafly offer unlimited data plans, while others only offer limited data plans.
- Price: Compare the prices of different eSIM Vietnam providers to find the best deal. Keep in mind that some providers may charge additional fees for activation or other services.
- Customer Service: Look for an eSIM provider with good customer service. If you encounter any issues with your eSIM during your stay in Vietnam, you want it solved fast.
- Data Sharing: Some eSIM prepaid plans don’t support hotspots or data tethering. Double-check the terms and conditions before you buy the eSIM.
When it comes to picking the perfect eSIM for Vietnam, it’s all about what suits your individual requirements and lifestyle.
Don’t be afraid to explore your options. Shop around a bit and even sign up with multiple eSIM providers so you get what you want!
Check If Your Phone Is Compatible For A Vietnam eSIM
Before purchasing an eSIM for Vietnam, there are 2 things you need to check:
- Is your phone unlocked?
- Is your phone compatible with eSIMs?
In the United States, devices purchased from major internet and phone service providers like AT&T and T-Mobile are usually locked. Reach out to your existing data provider to confirm if your device can be unlocked.
Got an iPhone?
You can see if your iPhone is unlocked right now:
- Click on Settings > General > About
- Now scroll down until you see the “Carrier lock” section
- If it says “NO SIM restrictions” your phone should be unlocked
If your mobile phone isn’t unlocked, you won’t be able to install an eSIM. So make sure you check first.
Next, you must check if your phone model is an eSIM-compatible device.
Here’s a brief list of eSIM-compatible phones:
- iPhone XS & XR or later
- Samsung Galaxy S20 or later
- Samsung Galaxy Fold & Z Fold
- Google Pixel 3 & 3XL or later
- Huawei P40, P40 Pro & P50 Pro
For a complete list of eSIM-compatible devices, including Android devices – check out this article.
Our Favorite eSIM For Vietnam
Our Favorite eSIM in Vietnam is…GIGAGO.
Why?
There are a few reasons:
- Good value for money
- Reliable network coverage
- Plans can include texts and calls
- Real local provider
A big part of why we recommend GIGAGO is reliability. We had good coverage in each place we visited as digital nomads in Vietnam – even in more remote areas.
Their customer support was also really helpful and they answered any questions quickly!
GIGAGO has done a great job at developing eSIM plans in Vietnam that will suit a wide range of people. They offer the convenience you need while giving you the reliability you want when you’re traveling across Vietnam.
Ready to get started with GIGAGO?
Wrapping It Up
That brings us to the end of our eSIM Vietnam review!
The truth is that eSIMs are way more convenient and hassle-free than traditional SIM cards. And with so many options available, you can get the perfect plan to match your travel requirements and lifestyle.
If you’re not sure where to start, we recommend checking out GIGAGO. They have a good range of plans that will suit most people.
Need more data?
Holafly is the best eSIM provider for unlimited plans. You can also get a range of durations depending on how long you are staying in Vietnam.
Both providers offer robust solutions to keep you connected throughout your Vietnam travels!
