Amsterdam Airport Schiphol (AMS) is the main international airport in the Netherlands, welcoming over 70 million passengers annually. Travelers arriving will want mobile data access for directions, translations, and connectivity. Getting a local SIM card is easy at Schiphol Airport.
Table of Contents
I. Where to Buy a SIM Card at Amsterdam Airport Schiphol
There are several options for directly purchasing a SIM card at Amsterdam Airport Schiphol:
1. L.Mobi Mobile kiosk
L.Mobi Mobile, which has a kiosk in Amsterdam Airport Schiphol, caters to tourists with prepaid SIM cards. It sells different options, the most popular being a SIM with 15GB of data and unlimited calls for around $40. L.Mobi Mobile provides a hassle-free way for tourists to get an affordable Netherlands SIM upon arrival.
- Opening hours: from 7:00 AM to 11:00 PM, 7 days a week
- Detailed location: main hall of the airport, near Arrivals 3
- Language support: Dutch, English
- Payment methods: cash/credit card
2. Service Point Store
Amsterdam Airport Schiphol’s Service Point Store is a one-stop shop, conveniently offering SIM cards, mobile/WiFi rentals, and knowledgeable assistance – providing all traveler needs without high prices.
- Opening hours: from 7:00 AM to 11:00 PM, 7 days a week
- Detailed location: in the Schiphol Plaza, which is the main shopping area of the airport.
- Language support: Dutch, English
- Payment methods: cash/credit/debit card
3. Albert Heijin (AH) To Go
Albert Heijn To Go convenience stores at Amsterdam Airport Schiphol sell SIM cards from providers like Lebara and Lycamobile, making them convenient for travelers needing connectivity upon arrival, though SIM prices are higher than elsewhere in the Netherlands.
- Opening hours: from 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM, 7 days a week
- Detailed location: one in the Arrivals Hall and one in the Departures Hall
- Language support: Dutch, English
- Payment methods: cash/credit/debit card
4. Airport Telecom Shop
Airport Telecom at Schiphol offers SIM cards from various providers, allowing travelers to easily compare options. Friendly staff can assist in selecting the most suitable plan. While prices may be higher than major carriers, Airport Telecom provides a one-stop shop for connectivity solutions at the airport.
- Opening hours: from 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM, 7 days a week
- Detailed location: Located between Arrivals 1 and 2.
- Language Support: Dutch, English
- Payment Methods: cash/credit cards
Which one is suitable for you?
The L.Mobi Mobile shop generally provides better value than Airport Telecom. For instance, L.Mobi currently offers a 15 GB data SIM for €40, more data for the same price point compared to Airport Telecom. L.MobiMobile presents the stronger deal of the two competitors.
II. Amsterdam Airport Schiphol SIM Card Options and Costs
Here is an overview of some of the major SIM card options available for purchase directly at Amsterdam Airport Schiphol:
| Provider | Details | Price |
| KPN | Prepaid SIMs on 4G network. 1.5GB data. | ~$15 |
| Vodafone | Prepaid SIMs with calls, texts, 5GB data/30 days. | ~$20 |
| Odido (T-Mobile) | Prepaid data or calls/texts. Plans up to 25GB/30 days. Unlimited option. | ~$10-20 |
| Lebara | Travel SIMs on KPN network. 1.5GB/30 days. | ~$10 |
| Lycamobile | Tourist SIMs on T-Mobile network. 3GB included. | ~$15 |
When purchasing your SIM card at Amsterdam Airport Schiphol, be sure to ask about any activation fees, expiry dates, roaming policies, and other conditions. Do your research to find the best plan for your needs.
III. What You Need to Prepare for Getting a SIM Card at Amsterdam Airport Schiphol
Here are some tips on what to have ready when purchasing and setting up your SIM card at Amsterdam Airport Schiphol:
- Passport – Bring your passport as you will need to show ID to purchase and register your SIM card.
- Unlocked phone – Your phone will need to be unlocked to use a foreign SIM card. Contact your home provider in advance to request an unlock code.
- SIM card size – Bring your standard size or nano SIM adapter if needed for your device. Know what size SIM card your phone requires.
- Cash and credit – Have Euros, debit cards, and credit cards ready for payment. Know your PIN codes in advance.
- Charger and power bank – Charge your phone before swapping SIM cards. Consider bringing a portable charger as you may need to restart your device.
- Activation instructions – Request activation instructions in English for PAYG SIM cards. Be ready to provide personal details for registration.
- Mobile data turned on – Make sure mobile data is enabled to access the network after inserting the new SIM card.
- APN settings – Ask the provider for proper APN settings to configure mobile data correctly on your device.
Being prepared before buying your SIM card at Amsterdam Airport Schiphol will make the process quick and hassle-free.
IV. eSIM as an Alternative to SIM Card at Amsterdam Airport Schiphol
In addition to physical SIM cards, eSIM (embedded SIM) is a digital alternative that is directly integrated into your phone. eSIM allows you to remotely switch mobile networks without swapping SIM cards.
Some benefits of using eSIM when traveling include:
- Easy setup, no need to go to store for SIM swap
- Ability to switch plans and data packages remotely
- Multiple plans active simultaneously
- Better security and less risk of SIM loss/theft
However, eSIM is not yet universally supported. Before considering eSIM, check the Europe eSIM Compatible Devices List if both your device and your home provider support eSIM functionality.
If your phone is eSIM compatible, you can research Netherlands eSIM plans from providers like GigSky, Ubigi, Airalo, and others. Order your Netherlands eSIM plan online and download it before your trip.
While eSIM is future-looking, getting a standard SIM card at the airport is still the most widely compatible option today for unlocked phones. However, eSIM provides an alternative for supported devices.
Travel Europe Hassle-Free with eSIM
Ditch roaming fees and easily stay connected with Europe eSIM data plans. Choose from multi-day packages from $5 including up to 30GB 4G/5G data. Install before your trip and you’re connected instantly on arrival. Buy now to receive your digital SIM via email.
V. FAQs
What network coverage and speeds can I expect with a Schiphol SIM card?
The main Dutch providers offer prepaid SIMs with 4G/LTE connectivity and decent coverage across the Netherlands. Speeds vary but you can expect solid performance for basic usage like maps, messaging, and social media.
Are the SIM cards at Schiphol Airport available only for tourists?
The prepaid SIM cards are primarily marketed for travelers and tourists. However, residents can also purchase SIMs at the airport for personal unlocked phones.
What languages do the SIM card providers at Schiphol Airport speak?
English is widely spoken, especially at major carrier stores like KPN and Vodafone. Bring a translation app or phrasebook as a backup for retail stores. Pointing or miming can help over the language barrier too!
Can I use my Schiphol SIM card in other European countries?
Prepaid SIMs may have varying roaming allowances. Be sure to ask about international roaming policies when purchasing your SIM. Some may offer roaming in the EU only, while others have wider roaming zones. Check roaming rates and usage limits.
VI. Final Words
Getting connected with a local SIM card is super convenient when arriving at Amsterdam Airport Schiphol. Whether you purchase from the KPN, Vodafone, or another independent provider, you’ll have flexible options right at the airport. Look for deals, choose an appropriate data plan for your needs, and set up your SIM card smoothly by being prepared before your arrival. With your Netherlands SIM ready to go, you can start your Dutch adventures with the ease of mobile data and connectivity. Enjoy your trip!
