Your detailed Guide to Getting an Iceland SIM card

Staying connected to the various beautiful landscapes in Iceland requires a reliable means to do so. Thanks to the Iceland SIM card, you can walk with maps, share breathtaking views in real-time, and keep up with weather updates as you travel this magical land. In this guide, you’ll learn everything from prepaid plans to flexible eSIMs so you can hop on your Iceland adventure connected and smoothly. Learn how to stay online effortlessly no matter where you travel!

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

While data usage can add up quickly when roaming, SIM cards are a much more affordable choice as you can elect a data/call plan that fits your travel needs in Iceland, rather than being limited to your home carrier’s roaming options. 

Here’s why a SIM card for Iceland could be your better option:

• Cost-effective: Local data rates are typically much lower than international roaming charges, saving you from shocking phone bills after your trip.
• Reliable coverage: SIM cards provide better network access throughout Iceland
• Generous data allowances: Most Icelandic prepaid plans offer substantial data packages perfect for navigation, sharing photos, and staying connected
• Easy emergency access: Having a local number makes contacting hotels, tour operators, or emergency services simpler if needed.

In short, an Iceland SIM card lets you explore Iceland’s breathtaking scenery with peace of mind, knowing you’re connected without worrying about hidden fees. It’s a practical choice that enhances your journey, letting you focus on the adventure, not the cost.

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

Tourists have two primary options for mobile connectivity: physical prepaid SIM card for Iceland and Iceland eSIMs. Here’s a breakdown to help you decide which best suits your needs.

1. Prepaid Iceland SIM Card

A physical prepaid SIM card is a tangible card that you insert into your phone to access local mobile networks. These are widely available upon arrival in Iceland.

Pros:

• Readily purchasable at airports, convenience stores, and mobile provider outlets.
• Provides an Icelandic phone number, facilitating local calls and services.
• Offers diverse data and call packages tailored for tourists.

Cons:

• Requires swapping out your existing SIM card, which can be inconvenient.
• Some phones may not support foreign SIM cards without unlocking.
• Being a physical item, there’s a chance of misplacing or damaging it.

2. Prepaid Iceland eSIM Card

An Iceland eSIM card is a digital SIM embedded in your device, allowing you to activate a mobile plan without a physical card. This modern solution is gaining popularity among travelers.

Pros:

• Purchase and activate online before or upon arrival, ensuring immediate connectivity.
• Eliminates the need to handle or store a physical SIM card.
• Allows you to keep your home SIM active for calls and texts while using local data.

Cons:

• Not all smartphones support eSIM Iceland technology.
• Typically provides data services only, without an Icelandic phone number.

🤳 Important Note: To use an Iceland eSIM, make sure that your cell phone is:

• Unlocked (to receive signals from Iceland’s mobile network operators)
• eSIM-compatible: Only newer phone models support eSIM. See a full list of eSIM-supported devices.

III. How much does an Iceland prepaid tourist SIM card cost?

Prepaid tourist SIM cards in Iceland range from 1,790 ISK to 3,290 ISK (~$13 to $24 USD) for different data packages, depending on your chosen carrier and plan. Below are three popular options from Iceland’s main carriers.

1. Vodafone Iceland

Vodafone offers a convenient starter kit for tourists with a package that includes both data and unlimited calling options.

• 1 GB data + unlimited calling + SMS for 30 days: 1,790 ISK (~$13 USD)
• Additional Data Packs:
  • 1 GB: 2,190 ISK (~$16 USD)
  • 10 GB: 3,190 ISK (~$23 USD)
  • 25 GB: 5,190 ISK (~$38 USD)
  • 50 GB: 6,190 ISK (~$45 USD)
  • 150 GB: 8,190 ISK (~$60 USD)
  • 500 GB: 10,190 ISK (~$74 USD)

2. Nova Iceland

Nova offers flexible prepaid Nova eSIM options with various data limits, ideal for short or extended stays.

• 5 GB data: 2,490 ISK (~$18 USD)
• 25 GB data: 3,290 ISK (~$24 USD)
• 100 GB data: 4,290 ISK (~$31 USD)
• 100 MB data: 590 ISK (~4.3 USD)
• With Home Network (includes 25 GB EEA data): 2,990 ISK (~$22 USD)

3. Síminn Iceland

Síminn provides a comprehensive starter pack suitable for tourists, with an option to top up as needed.

• Starter Pack (10 GB data + 50 mins calls + 50 SMS): 3,000 ISK (~$22 USD)
• Top Up: 1,000 ISK (~$7 USD) per additional top-up

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

eSIMs are revolutionizing how travelers stay connected in Iceland. These digital SIM cards eliminate the need to visit physical stores or swap plastic cards – you can set up your phone service before even leaving home. With instant activation and flexible plans, eSIMs offer convenience that traditional SIM cards simply can’t match.

While there are many providers in the market, one standout option for the best eSIM for Iceland is europe-esim.com. Our plans offer excellent coverage through major networks like Nova and Vodafone Iceland. Key features of our Iceland eSIM plans are:

• Data options for both daily & unlimited plan
• Diverse validity periods between 3-30 days
• Reasonable prices that anyone can afford to buy
• Hotspot/tethering included
• 4G/LTE/5G speeds available

Just scan a QR code, and activation automatically happens when you arrive in Iceland. For those who value convenience and reliable connectivity, these Iceland eSIM options provide an excellent alternative to traditional SIM cards.

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

There are 3 ways to get a SIM card in Iceland for tourists: online, at the airport, and in physical stores. Below, let’s explore each method. 

1. Buying a prepaid SIM card in Iceland Online

• Purchasing a SIM card online before your trip offers convenience and peace of mind. Providers like Siminn and Vodafone Iceland allow you to order SIM cards through their websites. Some services even offer delivery to your accommodation in Iceland, ensuring you’re connected upon arrival. 

• Besides, you can buy from a third-party provider like  Travel SIM to avoid complicated buying processes. 

2. Buying a prepaid SIM card at the airport

If you prefer to get connected immediately upon arrival, Keflavík International Airport offers several options:

• 10-11 Convenience Store: Located in the arrivals hall, this store stocks SIM cards from major providers like Siminn, Vodafone, and Nova.
• Elko Electronics Store: Also situated in the arrivals area, Elko offers SIM cards and related services.

3. Buying a prepaid SIM card at the physical Stores

• Official Stores: Major carriers have retail outlets in cities like Reykjavík and Akureyri. For instance, Siminn and Vodafone have stores where staff can assist with selecting and setting up your SIM card.
• Convenience Stores and Supermarkets: Chains such as 10-11 and Bónus stock prepaid SIM cards, providing travelers with a quick and easy option.
• Gas Stations: In more remote areas, gas stations often sell SIM cards, ensuring you can stay connected even in less populated regions.

VI. How to use an Iceland SIM card

1. Before Inserting the SIM

• Ensure your phone is unlocked
• Power off your device
• Locate the SIM tray (usually on the side of your phone)
• Use the provided SIM ejector tool or a paperclip to open the tray

2. Activation Process

• Insert the SIM card as shown by the tray’s diagram
• Power on your device
• Wait for the network signal to appear
• Your SIM should activate automatically within minutes
• If needed, enter the PIN code provided with your SIM package

3. Network Settings

• Your phone should automatically configure the network settings
• If not, you may need to manually select a network:
  • Go to Settings > Mobile Data > Network Selection
  • Choose one of Iceland’s carriers (Síminn, Nova, or Vodafone)
• Enable data roaming if you’re having connection issues

4. Checking Balance and Data Usage

• Download your carrier’s app if available
• Dial the provided USSD code to check the balance (usually *123#)
• Monitor data usage through your phone’s built-in settings
• Set data usage warnings to avoid unexpected charges

5. Making Calls

• For local calls: dial the number directly

• For international calls: dial + or 00, then country code and number
• Save emergency numbers: 112 (general emergency)

6. When Leaving Iceland

• Consider keeping your SIM if you plan to return
• Most prepaid SIMs remain valid for 6-12 months
• Transfer any remaining balance if possible
• Switch back to your home SIM card

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

When planning your trip to Iceland, estimating your mobile data needs is essential to stay connected without overspending.

• 1-3 GB: Enough for basic tasks like maps, email, and minimal social media.
• 3-5 GB: Ideal if you browse the internet often, use maps frequently, and post photos.
• 5-10 GB or more: Best for streaming, video calls, or uploading high-quality media.

With Wi-Fi readily available in many places, choosing the right data plan depends on how much you need to stay connected on the go.

VIII. Best mobile operators in Iceland

Nova currently provides the highest download speeds in Iceland, while Síminn leads in overall coverage. Here’s a comparison of the main operators conducted by Speed Checker in March 2024: 

Operator	Download Speed (Mb/s)	Upload Speed (Mb/s)	Mobile Coverage	4G Mobile Coverage	Latency (ms)
Nova	111.72	16.17	522	502	25
Síminn	99.69	16.62	586	555	29
Vodafone	94.09	18.83	494	476	29

Overall, Nova’s high download speed is perfect for data-heavy tasks, but as they don’t have the best coverage, Síminn is your best option if you want to travel to Iceland’s countryside. Vodafone is one option with a good balance between speed and coverage over the country.

IX. Tips on using prepaid SIM cards in Iceland

Here are some tips to keep in mind when buying Iceland SIM cards:

• Check Phone Lock: Make sure your phone is unlocked before your trip.
• Buy at Airport: Get SIM cards at 10-11 or Elko stores in Keflavík Airport arrivals.
• Bring Passport: You may need your passport to buy and activate a SIM card.
• Track Data Use: Monitor your usage to avoid extra charges.
• Keep SIM Info: Hold onto SIM packaging for your phone number and support contacts.
• Set Up APN: If data isn’t working, configure APN settings (instructions usually included).

X. FAQs about getting an Iceland SIM card

XI. Final Words

In summary, if you want to get the safest connectivity while discovering Iceland’s beautiful sights and hidden treasures, it makes sense to grab an Iceland SIM card. I do hope this guide helps you narrow down the perfect SIM option for your trip. Stay connected, capture every moment, and enjoy Iceland to the fullest!