Your Detailed Guide to Getting an Israel SIM Card

When traveling to Israel, visitors can avoid worrying about data costs with an Israel SIM card. The following is the most detailed guide you will ever come across when getting an Israeli SIM cards.

In this article, we will share how a local SIM card can be useful, learn the options, compare types such as eSIM, make a conclusion about their prices, and, finally, explain where to buy.

I. Why choose a prepaid Israel SIM card over roaming?

Using a physical SIM card is getting more and more popular with visitors over roaming due to its conveniences:

• Significant Savings: You receive much more data for your money than what roaming would cost.
• High-Speed Internet: Experience internet browsing on the go with the fast data speed of 4G/ 5G.
• Local Number: Useful for calling friends and arranging dining as well as booking for a tour within the area.
• No Bill Shock: Limit yourself with a prepaid as it does not allow you to owe the company anything and surprise charges may face you.

Israel has a convenient and cheap way to travel while being connected to the local number automatically, so you won’t have problems with using it.

II. Israel SIM card type – Which is the best for tourists?

There are two types of SIM cards in Israel: physical SIM cards & eSIM:

1. Prepaid Israel SIM Card

The physical SIM card is required to be pushed into the device you own. They are easy to access in airports, stores, and over the internet.

• Pros:
  • Widely available throughout Israel.  
  • Easy to purchase and activate.
  • Compatible with most phones, including older models.
• Cons:
  • Requires a physical SIM card slot, which might be a problem if you need your primary SIM card active.
  • Involves swapping SIM cards, which can be inconvenient.

2. Prepaid eSIM for Israel

An eSIM is an advanced type of SIM that is installed inside your handset, and which works with your mobile network operator. There is no physical switching, involved, you just switch it on online.

• Pros:
  • Convenient – no need to handle a physical SIM card.
  • Instant activation – get connected as soon as you land.
  • Can store multiple eSIM profiles for different countries.
• Cons:
  • Requires a compatible device (newer iPhones and some Android phones).
  • Might have slightly less availability compared to physical SIM cards in Israel.

III. How much does an Israel SIM card/ eSIM for tourist cost?

Depending on the company and package you select, tourist SIM cards in Israel typically cost $15 to $50 USD. Here is a thorough explanation:

• Prices for Cellcom range from $14 to $29. For 30 days, a popular plan includes 500 GB of data, 500 phone minutes, and 5,000 SMS.
  
• Hot Mobile: The price range for tourist SIMs is $24 to $35. You can get 50 GB of data and 30 days of unlimited calls to the US, Canada, and Israel for $24.

• Partner: SIM cards with unlimited calls and texts and decent data range in price from $20 to $30 USD.
• Pelephone: $30 -50 for tourist SIMs. 15 GB of data, unlimited local calls and texts, and a few foreign minutes are included in a popular plan.

The price may vary depending on time and provider, check the most accurate information at the operator’s official websites before making a purchase.

IV. Israel eSIM – Alternative to SIM card with unlimited data/data and calls for Israel

An eSIM is your perfect travel companion which offers a seamless and flexible way to stay connected, allowing you to explore Israel easily and conveniently. eSIM now is getting more and more popular with Israel visitors due to its convenience:

Why eSIMs are the Smart Choice for Travelers:

• Effortless Setup: Say goodbye to searching for stores or waiting in line. With an eSIM, you can activate your data plan online before you even arrive in Israel
• Instant Activation: Get connected the moment you land. Simply scan a QR code or download a profile, and you’re ready to explore.
• Keep Your Number: Enjoy the best of both worlds! Use your eSIM for data while keeping your existing phone number for calls and texts.
• Freedom and Flexibility: Switch between data plans effortlessly, or even have multiple eSIMs for different countries stored on your phone.

Europe-esim.com offers diverse Israel eSIM plans designed specifically for travelers. Consider several highlight below:

• Short Trip Essentials (1-5 GB):
  • Perfect for short trips where you’ll mostly use data for maps, social media, checking emails, and sending messages. eSIM Israel’s 5GB for 15 days plan is a great option for this.
• Extensive Travel Freedom (10-20 GB or more):
  • If you’re planning a longer trip or need more data for streaming music and videos, making video calls, and uploading lots of photos, consider the 10GB for 30 days or 20GB for 30 days plans.

V. Buying a prepaid SIM card in Israel – Where to buy?

Is it time for you to buy your Israeli SIM card so that you can make calls during your visit? You have a few options depending on your preferences and how much you like to plan ahead

1. Buying Israel SIM cards online

While buying a SIM card at the airport or in a store is convenient, you might prefer to have your SIM card ready before you even arrive in Israel. In this case, purchasing online is a great option.

• Convenience: Get your SIM card delivered to your doorstep before your trip.
• Wider selection: Online retailers often have a wider selection of SIM cards and plans compared to physical stores.
• No need to search for a store: Save time and effort by avoiding the need to find a store in Israel.

Potential for better deals: Online retailers sometimes offer discounts or promotions that might not be available in physical stores.

2. Buying Israel SIM cards at the airport

If you would like to purchase a SIM card on arrival then you can find one at Ben Gurion Airport (Tel Aviv). The SIM retail outlets by popular mobile operators such as Partner, Cellcom, and Pelephone are available at the arrival terminals.

🤳 Also referring: Where to buy a SIM Card at Ben Gurion Airport (TLV)

3. Buying Israel SIM cards at physical stores

Once you’re in Israel, you can find SIM cards at various physical stores:

• Official stores: Partner, Cellcom, and Pelephone have stores in most cities and towns.
• Convenience stores and supermarkets: Some convenience stores and supermarkets also carry SIM cards, but the selection might be limited.

VI. How to use an Israel SIM card

You had your Israel SIM card – now it’s time to get connected! Most of the time, the process of activation of the SIM card is very simple. Here’s a general guide to help you get started:

1. Insert the SIM card: Switch off your phone and then put the new SIM card in the appropriate SIM card slot if available.
2. Power on your phone: Turn your phone back on.
3. Follow the instructions: Your phone should be able to capture the new SIM and come with the activation procedure once on. This required keying in (if supplied) an activation code, or making other responses dictated by screen instructions.
4. Top up your balance: If your SIM card arrived without credit, you then need to recharge the account to make your first call. This can normally be completed online, through a mobile device’s application store, or by purchasing a top-up voucher at a retail outlet.

After the activation of your SIM card, you are ready to use the services and enjoy uninterrupted calls, messages,s and internet browsing while traveling through the beautiful and historical places in Israel.

VII. How much mobile data do you need when traveling to Israel?

Depending on whether you are going to use your phone mainly for calls, text or as portable media device, the kind of package to get for your Israel trip should suit you well. Are you an occasional user of social networks or are you, for instance, going to watch lots of videos and post numerous photos? Let’s break down data usage to help you estimate your needs:

Light Usage (1-3GB per week):

• Checking emails and messages
• Using maps and navigation apps
• Occasional social media browsing
• Sending messages on WhatsApp or similar apps

Moderate Usage (5-10GB per week):

• More frequent social media use (posting photos and videos)
• Streaming music
• Making video calls (short durations)
• Using travel apps with online features

Heavy Usage (10GB+ per week):

• Streaming movies or TV shows
• Downloading large files or apps
• Extensive video calling
• Using your phone as a hotspot for other devices

Since your travel plan will dictate how you frequently use your device, you can find a SIM card with data bundle that fits your use and avoid any shocking over charges when discovering Israel.

VIII. Best mobile operators in Israel

There are several providers which are able to offer plans at fairly reasonable and affordable prices, yet some of them are more known for their network coverage, data speed or customer support services.

Operator	Network Coverage	Pros	Cons
Partner	Excellent, extensive 4G/5G coverage	* Fastest data speeds * Reliable network * Wide range of plans	* Can be slightly more expensive
Cellcom	Very good coverage, especially in urban areas	* Competitive pricing * Good data speeds * Good customer service	* Coverage may be less consistent in rural areas
Pelephone	Good coverage, expanding 5G network	* Affordable plans * Good value for money * Improving customer service	* Not as widely available as Partner or Cellcom

In summary:

• Partner frequently features well in terms of network reliability and speed of data which should go well with everyone especially those that are always on the move.
• Cellcom balances coverage, speed, and price, and Pelephone which is cheaper with growing coverage and services in the country.

IX. Tips on using prepaid Israel SIM cards

To make the most of your prepaid SIM card in Israel and ensure a smooth and connected experience, keep these helpful tips in mind:

• Check coverage maps before you go: Make sure to compare the offered by the Israeli operators (Partner, Cellcom, Pelephone) coverage maps before your trip, especially if you are planning to go outside big cities.
• Activate your SIM card early: In case you bought the SIM card online, you should activate it upon arrival so as not to be locked out for some time.
• Download essential apps while on Wi-Fi: Transport guides, dictionaries, translate, and messaging apps like WhatsApp or Viber should be downloaded while offline to avoid using the Internet connection.
• Monitor your data usage: Easy to get busy with work and forget to monitor the amount of data used such that the free bundle is exhausted or extra charges are incurred. You can find built-in data usage trackers on most of the phones or get a data monitor app from the App Store.
• Enable data saving mode: Also apply lower usage in background data on your phone to help in the saving of data plan.  
• Use Wi-Fi calling: If it is available on your phone and your plan, turn on Wi-Fi calling so as to make and receive calls using the Wi-Fi networks and thereby avoid call tariffs.
• Keep your SIM card safe: In cases when you are not using your SIM card, it is advisable to keep it in a safe place in order to avoid loss or damage.
• Top up your balance in advance: Do not wait until the last time your balance gets finished before you examine the next time. Use a credit top-up or purchase a balance card from a convenience store to avert service disruptions.
• Be mindful of data roaming: When you are going to use mobile services in other countries you should be careful and often turn off data roaming or purchase a new plan specifically for traveling.

If you incorporate these tips in your journey, you will be good to go all through your visit to Israel without necessarily worrying about connectivity with people back at home or posting pictures and videos of your awesome experience online.

X. FAQs

XI. Conclusion

Opting for an Israeli SIM card is essential for affordable, reliable connectivity while traveling. Research the providers and plans that fit your usage and itinerary. If your device supports eSIM, consider an eSIM Israel option for instant activation without needing a physical card.

Staying connected with Israel’s physical SIM card or eSIM will make navigation and communication smoother throughout your travels.