Best eSIM providers and plans in Iceland in 2024
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Are you planning a trip to Iceland? The island is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. The breathtaking contrast of hot springs, icy mountains, and volcanic craters is framed in Aurora borealis in winter, a sight that you cannot see elsewhere. To capture and share all this stunning beauty, you'll need reliable internet access.
That's where Iceland eSIM services jump in. It's a digital version of a traditional physical SIM card with unique benefits. eSIM service providers work with local mobile carriers to reduce expensive roaming charges, eliminate hidden costs, and offer flexible data plans. Not only can you get online the moment you arrive in Iceland, you will do so cheaper!
There are numerous eSIMs for Iceland, so picking one is challenging. To help you decide, we're offering our detailed opinion on 5 best eSIM for Iceland services. Continue reading to learn what each offers!
Top 5 eSIMs in Iceland – shortlist
- Saily – fast Iceland eSIM for affordable price
- Airalo – eSIM for Iceland with great global plan
- Nomad – beginner-friendly Iceland eSIM
- Jetpac – eSIM with multiple plans for Iceland
- aloSIM – Iceland eSIM with great European plan
What to consider before choosing an eSIM plan for Iceland
The best eSIM card for Iceland is a convenient way of getting online while there. Some eSIMs offer better prices, while others have regional plans for visiting neighboring countries. Here's what you should consider to pick a suitable Iceland eSIM.
- Travel destination. Iceland is a sparsely populated country. You will find excellent internet access in Reykjavik and urban areas, but more remote places may need some improvement. Use this internet coverage map in Iceland to determine internet availability.
- Data needs. Consider how much data you'll need, which depends on your online activities. Pick a more extensive Iceland internet plan, like Saily's 20GB, if you plan on streaming and making video calls. On the other hand, you can save a lot of money if you just use the internet casually, and you can always top-up your eSIM Iceland plan if you run out of data.
- Travel duration. Remember to verify that your plan validity period matches the travel duration. Iceland eSIMs on this list provide plans that are valid from 7 to 30 days.
- Mobile tethering. An eSIM mobile hotspot is a convenient way to share an internet connection across all your devices or with traveling companions. The further you go from Iceland's cities, the less likely you will have Iceland's WiFi services. Wherever possible, tethering will keep your group online, but keep an eye on increased data consumption.
- Price. Iceland eSIM card can save you a lot of money, especially if you are active online. Pick a plan that offers the right amount of data for the least possible price, but also consider additional features like a phone number for calls and texts and hotspot availability.
The the best eSIMs for Iceland – in-depth review
We examined the most notorious Iceland eSIMs to separate the good from the not-so-good. It boiled down to 5 eSIMs that offer the best prices, user-friendly apps, valuable additional features, and the fastest internet connection speed. Here are the winners:
1. Saily – the best overall Iceland eSIM
| Supported networks: | 3G, 4G, LTE, 5G |
| Country coverage: | 150+ |
| Starting price: | Starts from $3.99 (1GB for 7 days) |
Saily is one of the best Iceland eSIM services with affordable prices, a user-friendly app, and flexible plans.
Plan Options. This provider offers prepaid data-only plans without a phone number for calls and texts, but allows using the eSIM as a mobile hotspot. It also includes Iceland in European and Global plans, so it's an excellent choice for worldwide travelers.
Iceland Plans Pricing. Saily's 1GB costs merely $3.99 for 7 days. There are also 3, 5, 10, and 20GB plans with a 30-day validity and a maximum $31.99 price, which makes 1GB cost as low as a dollar.
Network Coverage. Although Saily does not disclose its Ireland cell service partners, it uses the fastest 4G and 5G networks whenever possible.
Activation Process. Download Saily's app from Google Play or Apple App stores and tap "Activate eSIM" after you purchase a plan. It will issue easy-to-follow installation and activation steps that only take a few minutes.
Customer Support. You can reach Saily 24/7 via in-app chat, submit a ticket on the website, or go through its knowledge base and FAQ sections.
2. Airalo – best Iceland eSIM with regional plans
| Supported networks: | 3G, 4G, LTE, 5G |
| Country coverage: | 200+ |
| Starting price: | Starts from $6.00 (1GB for 7 days) |
Airalo is an outstanding eSIM for Iceland, especially if you plan on traveling to other European countries.
Plan Options. This service offers 6 Iceland plans and includes this destination in the regional European and global eSIM plans. Furthermore, the global Discovery+ plan provides a +43 phone number for international calls and texts.
Iceland Plans Pricing. Slightly more expensive than Saily, Airalo's 1GB costs $4.50. There are also 2, 3, 5, and 10GB plans, and the 20GB costs $36.
Network Coverage. Airalo works with Nova mobile carrier in Iceland, so you can expect lightning-fast speeds in Reykjavik and Selfoss where it uses a 5G network.
Activation Process. You can easily activate this eSIM via a QR code sent to you by email. There are no eKYC requirements or contracts.
Customer Support. Airalo’s support is available via 24/7 live chat. You can also contact them by email or read their blog, knowledge base, and FAQ sections.
3. Nomad – Iceland eSIM with flexible plans
| Supported networks: | 3G, 4G, LTE, 5G |
| Country coverage: | 170+ |
| Starting price: | Starts from $6.00 (1GB for 7 days) |
Nomad is a straightforward Iceland eSIM that cooperates with more than a few local mobile carriers, giving you freedom of choice.
Plan Options. There are 7 prepaid and data-only plans to choose from, with add-on data availability and mobile hotspot support. Iceland is also included in the global and Europe plans.
Iceland Plans Pricing. For 1GB, Nomad asks $6 for 7 days. There are also 3, 5, and 10GB plans, and the most extensive, 20GB, costs $33, valid for 1 month.
Network Coverage. Nomad cooperates with Nova, Vodafone, Landssiminn, and Siminn mobile carriers in Iceland, so be sure to go through its deals to find the one that suits you most.
Activation Process. Nomad doesn't ask for eKYC information and lets you quickly activate the plan via a QR code.
Customer Support. This eSIM has a 24/7 in-app live chat, an online ticketing system, a blog, and a troubleshooting section.
4. Jetpac – eSIM for Iceland with newcomers discount
| Supported networks: | 3G, 4G, LTE, 5G |
| Country coverage: | 100+ |
| Starting price: | $5.00 (3GB for 7 days) |
Jetpac Iceland eSIM can be a priority choice for travelers who want to visit multiple European countries.
Plan Options. Although Jetpac does not offer a local Iceland internet plan, it includes Iceland in the European bundle that covers 28 destinations.
Iceland Plans Pricing. There's an exclusive discount for new users that can get 1GB for only $1. Afterward, you will have to choose from 3, 5, 10, 15, 20, 30, and 40GB plans with 7 to 30 days validity.
Network Coverage. Jetpac works with NOVA mobile carrier in Iceland, which offers an excellent 5G network in metropolitan areas.
Activation Process. This eSIM doesn't require eKYC information and can be activated via QR code, making the setup particularly easy.
Customer Support. The only way to contact Jetpac is via the online ticketing system, as it doesn't offer 24/7 live chat support. Although there's online self-help material, I recommend something other than this service for beginners.
5. aloSIM – a speedy eSIM for Iceland
| Supported networks: | 3G, 4G, LTE, 5G |
| Country coverage: | 175+ |
| Starting price: | $4.50 (3GB for 7 days) |
aloSIM is a good choice for travelers in Iceland who require a phone number for calls and SMS but are OK with installing a separate app for that.
Plan Options. aloSIM Iceland plans are prepaid and data-only, but it partners with a Hushed app for international calls. aloSIM also includes Iceland in its Europe bundle that covers 35 countries.
Iceland Plans Pricing. 1GB costs $4.50 for 7 days, and the aloSIM best value plan offers 20GB for $36 with 30 days validity, which is slightly above the market average.
Network Coverage. This eSIM for Iceland works with Nova mobile carrier, utilizing its 5G network wherever possible.
Activation Process. With no eKYC requirements and activation via QR code, no one should have any trouble setting this eSIM up.
Customer Support. aloSIM customer support includes an online blog and guides, and you can contact them via email or 24/7 live chat.
Compare the best eSIM providers in Iceland
To compile this best eSIM for Iceland list, we thoroughly tested the most popular eSIMs and compared their features. We have organized the results in the table below.
| Brand | Plan duration | Mobile hotspot | Unlimited data | App | GB per plan | Support | Price | Trustpilot | Rating |
| Saily | 7 and 30 days | Yes | No | Yes | 1GB, 3GB, 5GB, 10GB, 20GB | 24/7 live chat, email, online knowledgebase | $3.99 - $31.99 | 4.1 | |
| Airalo | 7, 15, 30 days | Yes | No | Yes | 1GB, 2GB, 3GB, 5GB, 10GB, 20GB | 24/7 live chat, email, online knowledgebase, blog | $4.50 - $36.00 | 2.5 | |
| Nomad | 7 and 30 days | Yes | No | Yes | 1GB, 3GB, 5GB, 10GB, 20GB | 24/7 live chat, email, online knowledgebase, blog | $6.00 - $33.00 | 4.4 | |
| Jetpac | 4, 7, 30 days | Yes | No | Yes | 1GB, 3GB, 5GB, 10GB, 15GB, 20GB, 30GB, 40GB | Email, online knowledgebase, blog | $5.00 - $39.00 | 4.5 | |
| aloSIM | 7, 15, 30 days | Yes | No | Yes | 1GB, 2GB, 3GB, 5GB, 10GB, 20GB | 24/7 live chat, email, online knowledgebase, blog | $4.50 - $36.00 | 4.2 |
How did we rank eSIMs for Iceland?
We test and compare Iceland's eSIM services starting from their local internet coverage. Then, we check network type and feature availability, setup process, and price.
| Coverage: | How much of Icelands does the eSIM cover? Does it provide internet access in the outskirts alongside the metropolitan area? Is Iceland included in regional plans? |
| Network type: | Does it use 4G or an even faster 5G network? How fast is the connection speed, and should you expect any downtime? |
| Features: | Does it provide a phone number for international calls and SMS? Are mobile hotspots allowed? |
| Ease of use: | How beginner-friendly is the eSIM app? Does it require eKYC information for setup? Are the in-app installation and activation instructions? |
| Price: | Exhaustive Iceland eSIM price comparison. Is the price-value ratio good compared to the offered features and connection quality? |
- Coverage. We verify that the eSIM service provides internet access in Iceland and whether it includes Iceland in any regional plans.
- Network type. We search for information on what mobile carrier the eSIM works with and what network type that carrier uses.
- Features. We look for features like tethering and international phone number, and any additional benefits the eSIM provides.
- Ease of use. At this stage, the most important criteria are in-app step-by-step instructions on eSIM installation and activation.
- Price. This is a thorough price comparison to see whether the chosen provider offers sufficient value for its cost.
We ensured the Iceland eSIM cards on this list have a straightforward setup process with helpful instructions. However, because the setup differs per provider, it can still get slightly confusing for newcomers. Here are 3 quick ways how you can activate an eSIM card.
- Scan a QR code. Most eSIM will send a QR code to your email after purchasing a plan. Simply turn on your device camera and scan the QR code. The eSIM app will then give you instructions to install and activate it on your smartphone.
- Enter details manually. I recommend this method only for users who are tech-savvy and have used an eSIM before. You have to get an SM-DP+ address and the activation code from your eSIM service provider. Then, you will have to go to your smartphone's settings and manually input these details. I recommend checking your eSIMs website for instructions on how to do it.
- In-app activation. Download the eSIM from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store. Launch it, choose a destination plan, and finalize the purchase. Go to the bought plan and look for the activation button. After you tap it, the app will issue further installation and activation instructions, which should take no longer than a few minutes.
Is my phone compatible with eSIM?
Compared to physical SIM cards, eSIMs are relatively new technology incompatible with older smartphones. There's an unwritten rule that if your smartphone was released before 2018, then most likely it does not support eSIMs. To check whether your device works with this technology visit our eSIM compatibility checker article.
Which iPhones support eSIMs?
iPhones are all about innovation, so it's no surprise many are compatible with eSIMs. What's more, the iPhone 15 US series doesn't even have a physical card slot and only relies on eSIMs. However, older models like the iPhone 6S, iPhone 7 and 8 are incompatible. The iPhone XR and later models support eSIMs, and you can learn more about it in our eSIM activation on iPhone guide.
Which Samsung phones support eSIMs?
Samsung eSIM compatibility is easy to verify, and other Android brands should follow similar logic. Go to your Samsung's settings and locate the "Connections" option, then navigate to "Sim Manager" and tap on it. If you see there is an "Add eSIM option" then you can use it on your device. If you have a Samsung S20 or a newer model, you shouldn't worry about eSIM compatibility.
What are the upsides of using an eSIM in Iceland?
The main Iceland eSIM selling point is the reduction of expensive roaming charges because who likes to overpay on a holiday? However, I must point out that European travelers enjoy free data roaming with their native SIM cards. The non-EU tourists visiting Iceland or other European countries should grab one of the best eSIMs for Iceland on this list to save money. If you still need convincing, here are a couple more good reasons.
- Flexible. With an eSIM, you can switch between mobile network providers without swapping a physical SIM card. This is particularly convenient in Ireland with numerous remote areas with limited internet coverage.
- Handy. You can set up your Iceland eSIM before you depart to get online the moment you arrive there. What's more, you can avoid searching for a local SIM vendor and start enjoying your voyage without delay!
- Secure. Because eSIMs are embedded into your smartphone's motherboard, there's no risk of losing it, unlike a physical SIM card.
- Compact. eSIMs are much smaller than traditional SIMs, so your smartphone can have a smoother design or room for better measurements, like a longer battery life.
- Nature-friendly. Plastic SIM cards and their containers are not biodegradable. An eSIM is a digital solution, so it doesn't use this harmful material, and its manufacturing process leaves a smaller carbon footprint.
What are the downsides of using an eSIM in Iceland?
Iceland's eSIM plan benefits are apparent, but they are not limitless. eSIMs have a few setbacks that could motivate you to keep using a traditional SIM card tied to your native mobile carrier. Here's what you should be aware of before purchasing an eSIM card for Iceland.
- Free roaming for Europeans. Citizens of the European Union have free roaming within its borders, rendering eSIM services futile.
- Higher upfront fees. Most eSIMs offer prepaid plans, which means you must pay the whole sum in advance. It may seem quite a lot compared to a monthly mobile plan subscription, but the higher cost quickly evaporates once you take roaming charges into account. Generally, if you plan on using more than a few gigabytes of data abroad, the eSIM is a more affordable choice.
- Installation can be tricky. Even with in-app instructions, installing an eSIM may be challenging if it requires tweaking the smartphone's settings manually. I recommend following the instructions carefully and looking for a more elaborate guide on the eSIMs website if you need more help.
- Compatibility problems. As mentioned previously, most smartphones released before 2018 do not have the required eSIM chip to support this technology, and there's no way of upgrading it. Smartphones that are not eSIM compatible must resort to traditional SIM cards.
How can I make calls with eSIM in Iceland?
Most Iceland eSIMs focus on speedy internet access and offer data-only plans. But there are still ways to make an international call using one. Here are three methods you should try out.
Make sure your eSIM provider supports calls and texts. Some eSIMs include a phone number for calls and SMS, although at an extra charge. Take a look at Airalo and aloSIM services on this list that offer this feature.
Use your regular SIM card. European Union citizens visiting Iceland can freely use their existing SIM card to make calls because they enjoy free roaming within the Union borders. Non-Eu visitors should keep in mind that international calls via their native mobile carrier are usually very costly, and they should look at the solution below.
Try using VoIP apps for calls over the internet. I strongly recommend trying out VoIP apps like WhatsApp, FaceTime, or Google Voice. These apps use mobile data, and their data consumption is relatively low, 0.3 megabytes per second on average.
Quick recap
It is evident that in most cases, an eSIM for Iceland is a more comfortable and affordable choice than a traditional SIM card. European citizens are an exception because the European Union has eliminated roaming charges within its borders. However, non-EE Iceland visitors can save a lot of money by picking up an eSIM Iceland card.
The best eSIM plan for Iceland depends on your needs. After testing several providers and scrutinizing their features, we concluded that Saily offers the best price-value ratio. However, unlike Airalo, it doesn't provide an international phone number. In the end, the choice is yours, as all 5 Iceland eSIMs on this list bring something different to the table.
Read more eSIM guides on Cybernews
FAQ
Can I keep my domestic phone number with an Iceland eSIM card?
Yes, you can keep your domestic phone number while using an Iceland eSIM card. Although you can dial and accept calls, remember that using your domestic phone number while abroad applies to expense roaming charges. Instead, you can use VoIP apps that use mobile data to save money.
Does my phone support an eSIM card for Iceland?
Most smartphones developed before 2018 do not support eSIM cards. If you need clarification on whether yours does, we recommend visiting our eSIM compatibility check article.
What happens after I buy an eSIM plan?
Most eSIM service providers, like Saily, use a QR code activation. After you buy an eSIM plan, it will send you a QR code to your email. Use your smartphone's camera to scan it and it will initiate the eSIM installation process.
Can I install my eSIM before I travel to Iceland?
Yes, it is highly recommended to install an eSIM before you leave home. eSIM installation and activation processes require an internet connection, which might not be available once you land in Iceland. Instead, set it up while you are still at home and activate it shortly before you depart.
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