Getting a SIM card at Keflavík Airport is an essential step for many travelers visiting Iceland.
This guide will provide you with everything you need to know about purchasing a SIM card at Keflavík International Airport, including where to buy it, pricing, required preparations, and alternative options like eSIMs.
Table of Contents
I. Where to Buy a SIM Card at Keflavík Airport
ELKO
- Elko offers a wide selection of electronics from well-known brands at low prices. Elko operates two stores at Keflavík Airport.
- Elko provides NOVA SIM cards with 14/30 days plans to suit any visitors’s trip length.
- Visitors can order products online at Elko and pick it up directly at the their flagship store at the airport.
- Opening hours: Open daily for morning and afternoon flights
- Locations: Main building - 2nd. floor (after security; Arrivals - 1st floor
- Contact: Telephone - 544 4000 Email: [email protected]
10-11 (Convenience store)
Vodafone SIM cards can be found at 10-11 shop where visitors can easy go and buy.
- Location: This shop is located in the arrival hall of the airport
- Opening hours: 24 hours a day
- Price: They sell Vodafone Prepaid 4G/5G Internet Starter Kit, costing ISK 1,790 (13 USD) for 3GB data at Keflavík International Airport.
II. Keflavík Airport SIM Card Options and Costs
Tourist SIM cards at Keflavík International Airport (KEF) typically cost between ISK 2,000 and ISK 5,000, or roughly $15 to $35 USD. A variety of data options are usually included in these packages from regional carriers like Síminn and Nova; some may also include minutes or messages.
Vodafone
- Starter kit: Prepaid 4G/5G Internet – ISK 1,790 (~USD 13) for 3 GB of data, limited-time plan for occasional internet use.
Síminn
- Basic Package: ISK 2,000 (~USD 15) for around 1 GB of data, valid for a few days—suitable for light internet use.
- Tourist Package: ISK 3,500 (~USD 25) includes 5-10 GB of data, valid for 7 days—ideal for moderate usage with social media and navigation.
- Extended Package: ISK 5,000 (~USD 35) offers 10-20 GB, valid for 30 days—perfect for travelers with higher data needs during a longer stay.
Nova
- Small Data Package: ISK 2,000 (~USD 15) for 2-3 GB of data, valid for 7 days.
- Standard Package: ISK 3,500 (~USD 25) includes 10 GB, valid for 14 days—suitable for more active usage like streaming and video calls.
- Unlimited Package: ISK 5,000 (~USD 35) for unlimited data, valid for 30 days—best for extended stays with high data requirements.
*The prices may change depending on time and the operator, check the most up-to-date information before making a purchase.
Read also: Your detailed Guide to Getting an Iceland SIM card
III. What You Need to Prepare for Getting a SIM Card at Keflavík Airport
It is possible to purchase a SIM card upon arrival at Keflavík airport though a little research can make the process easier. Here’s a checklist to ensure you’re ready to purchase your SIM card:
- Passport or ID: However, having your passport or any other photo identification card from a government authority is desirable in case of registration at the provider’s office.
- Unlocked phone: If you are considering using a physical SIM card then ensure that your phone is unlocked. So it was not dependent on a single carrier, indeed it is compatible with other operators’ SIM cards.
- Payment method: Although it is usually difficult to find foreign currencies accepted, most kiosks, cafeterias, and stores in the Airport in Keflavík received payments in Visa, Mastercard as well as ISK. Well it is always advisable to keep some cash aside in the family for any kind of emergency.
- Know your data needs: You should also think about how much data would be required taking into account your travelling pattern and activities to be undertaken. This will assist you in deciding which data package to go for and which one is costly to avoid going over with.
IV. Iceland eSIM as an Alternative to SIM Card at Keflavík Airport
eSIM technology has gained traction, offering a convenient alternative to traditional SIM cards. As Iceland is embracing this digital change, it’s worth exploring if an eSIM would suit your needs better than a physical SIM card.
- Instead of hunting down a physical card upon arrival, you can digitally activate your eSIM through a QR code or app, allowing instant connectivity.
- eSIMs allow you to manage multiple profiles. This means you can switch between your home network and a local Icelandic plan with ease, ensuring you don’t miss important calls or messages while traveling.
Europe-esim.com offers diverse Iceland eSIM plans at a reasonable price for any travel needs. As one of the most reliable eSIM providers in Iceland, visitors can consider using Iceland eSIM from europe-esim.com.
V. FAQs about Buying a SIM Card at Keflavík Airport
Are SIM card kiosks open 24/7 at Keflavík Airport?
Indeed there are some options such as the 10-11 Convenience store and the Duty Free store which are opened the whole night.
However, other kiosks, like the Síminn kiosk, might have more limited hours, typically closing by 10:00 PM. , if you are getting there late at night then ensure to find out if the kiosk is open or get an eSIM online which will be activated immediately.
Can I buy a SIM card at Keflavík Airport if I arrive late at night/early morning?
Yes, you can! Subway 10-11 convenience store and Duty-Free store are available all the time, and you can buy a SIM card in any time if needed.
Do the SIM card kiosks/stores at Keflavík Airport accept credit cards?
Yes, I noticed that most of the SIM card booths and shops in Keflavík airport are also Fine with Visa, Master cards, and also ISK cash payments.
Where can I find SIM card kiosks/stores in the airport?
Mobile SIM card shops are mostly found at the Airport’s Arrival terminal especially in areas which are close to the baggage claim facilities and the exit terminals. They have to look at the billboards for the Síminn, Vodafone, Nova, 10-11 or Duty-Free store.
Are there any SIM card vending machines at Keflavík Airport?
Although there are SIM card vending machine points in some other airports, at the moment there is none in Keflavík airport. Visitors will have to buy their SIM card from the various vendors located within the Arrivals Hall.
VI. Final Words
Whether you opt for a traditional SIM card or explore the convenience of an eSIM, the ability to communicate, navigate, and share your experiences enhances your overall trip. Being prepared by gathering the right documents and understanding your options will streamline the process and allow you to hit the ground running.
Take charge of your connectivity, and immerse yourself in the breathtaking beauty and rich culture of Iceland while staying connected with family and friends back home.