Where can I buy a SIM card for internet in Vietnam?

Question

Travelers often ask about buying a SIM card, choosing a best 5g package for international travelers, and where to find free Wi-Fi.

Answer 1

Vietnam offers several 5G packages specifically designed for international travelers, provided by the country’s major mobile service providers like Viettel, Vinaphone, and MobiFone. These packages typically include a combination of data, call, and text services, catering to the needs of short-term visitors.

### 1. Viettel
Viettel is one of the largest mobile providers in Vietnam, known for its extensive coverage, including 5G in major cities. They offer various tourist SIM cards with 5G data.

Popular 5G Packages:
- Tourist SIM 7 Days:
- Data: 7 GB high-speed 5G data (then reduced speed)
- Validity: 7 days
- Calls/SMS: Limited local calls and SMS
- Price: Approximately 200,000 VND (~$8.50 USD)

- Tourist SIM 15 Days:
- Data: 15 GB high-speed 5G data (then reduced speed)
- Validity: 15 days
- Calls/SMS: Limited local calls and SMS
- Price: Approximately 300,000 VND (~$13 USD)

### 2. Vinaphone
Vinaphone also offers reliable 5G services in major urban areas and is popular among tourists for its competitive pricing.

Popular 5G Packages:
- Vina Tourist SIM:
- Data: 10 GB high-speed 5G data (then reduced speed)
- Validity: 30 days
- Calls/SMS: Unlimited on-net calls, 50 minutes off-net
- Price: Approximately 250,000 VND (~$10.50 USD)

- Vina eSIM:
- Data: 6 GB high-speed 5G data
- Validity: 15 days
- Calls/SMS: None (data-only plan)
- Price: Approximately 150,000 VND (~$6.50 USD)

### 3. MobiFone
MobiFone is another major provider with 5G coverage in key areas. Their packages are often bundled with data and local calling options.

Popular 5G Packages:
- Mobi Tourist SIM:
- Data: 10 GB high-speed 5G data
- Validity: 30 days
- Calls/SMS: 50 minutes local calls, 20 SMS
- Price: Approximately 300,000 VND (~$13 USD)

- Mobi Prepaid SIM:
- Data: 8 GB high-speed 5G data
- Validity: 15 days
- Calls/SMS: 100 minutes local calls, 50 SMS
- Price: Approximately 250,000 VND (~$10.50 USD)

### Where to Buy
- Airports: Kiosks at major airports sell these SIM cards, often with staff who can help set them up for you.
- Mobile Service Provider Stores: You can visit official stores in cities and tourist areas to purchase and activate a SIM card.
- Online: Some providers allow you to order a SIM card online and pick it up upon arrival or have it delivered to your hotel.

### Notes
- 5G Availability: 5G coverage is mainly in major cities like Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and Da Nang. In more rural areas, you may fall back to 4G or 3G networks.
- Registration: You will need to register your SIM card with your passport at the point of purchase.
- Tethering: Most packages allow you to use your phone as a hotspot, but it’s good to confirm this if you plan to share your connection with other devices.

These packages provide ample data and connectivity for your travel needs, ensuring you stay connected throughout your trip in Vietnam.

Answer 2

You can easily buy a SIM card for internet access in Vietnam at various locations. Here are some of the most convenient places to purchase a SIM card:

### 1. Airports
- Arrival Terminals: Most international airports in Vietnam, including Tan Son Nhat International Airport (Ho Chi Minh City), Noi Bai International Airport (Hanoi), and Da Nang International Airport, have kiosks or shops in the arrival terminals where you can purchase a SIM card. These kiosks usually offer tourist SIM cards with data packages that are easy to set up.
- Airport Shops: Some convenience stores or mobile service provider shops within the airport also sell SIM cards.

### 2. Mobile Service Provider Stores
- Major Providers: Vietnam has several major mobile service providers, including Viettel, Vinaphone, and MobiFone. You can visit their official stores or authorized dealers in cities and towns across the country to purchase a SIM card. These stores often offer a wider range of plans and better customer support.
- Shopping Centers: Mobile service provider kiosks are commonly found in shopping malls and large supermarkets.

### 3. Convenience Stores
- Chain Stores: Many convenience stores, such as Circle K, Family Mart, VinMart, and 7-Eleven, sell SIM cards. These stores are widespread in urban areas and are often open 24/7.
- Small Shops: In busy areas and near tourist attractions, you’ll also find small shops that sell SIM cards. These may offer competitive pricing, but be sure to check the SIM card's authenticity and the data package details.

### 4. Hotels and Hostels
- Tourist Hotels: Some hotels and hostels offer SIM cards for sale at the reception desk, especially those that cater to international tourists. While this option is convenient, the prices may be slightly higher than in stores.

### 5. Online Purchase
- Pre-order: You can order a SIM card online before your trip and have it delivered to your hotel or pick it up at the airport upon arrival. Some companies offer this service to make it easier for tourists to get connected right away.

### 6. Street Vendors
- Tourist Areas: In popular tourist areas, you might find street vendors selling SIM cards. While this can be a convenient option, exercise caution and ensure the SIM card is from a reputable provider and comes with a valid data package.

### Things to Consider When Buying a SIM Card
- Passport: You’ll need to show your passport when purchasing a SIM card, as registration is required in Vietnam.
- Data Packages: Choose a SIM card with a data package that suits your needs. Tourist SIM cards often come with preloaded data and a set validity period (e.g., 7, 15, or 30 days).
- Network Coverage: Viettel generally has the best nationwide coverage, followed by Vinaphone and MobiFone. Consider this if you plan to travel to more remote areas.

Buying a SIM card in Vietnam is straightforward and affordable, allowing you to stay connected throughout your trip.