How to Get a Travel SIM Card Airports - What You Need to Know

Getting a SIM card at the airport is the most convenient way for travelers to stay connected as soon as they land in Vietnam. Having a working phone immediately upon arrival allows you to contact loved ones, navigate with maps, and book transportation hassle-free. In this guide, we'll explore the best options for purchasing a travel SIM at Vietnam's major airports, including Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City.

1. Why Choose a SIM Card Airport?

Buying a SIM card at the airport offers significant convenience for travelers:

• Provides instant connectivity as soon as you land without searching for a store in the city

• Ensures immediate internet access for essential travel needs

• Makes it easy to book a taxi right away

• Allows you to check accommodation details on the spot

• Enables you to contact friends and family immediately upon arrival

2. Selecting the Right SIM Card Airport Package

Selecting the Right SIM Card Airport Package

There are different types of SIM cards available, and choosing the right one depends on your needs. A tourist SIM is the best option for short-term visitors, as it typically includes a combination of data and call minutes. If you only need internet access, a data-only SIM may be a better choice.

When selecting a SIM card, consider factors such as:

• Network coverage (Viettel generally provides the best nationwide coverage, especially in rural areas)

• Price (typically ranging from $8 to $20, depending on the package)

• Data allowance (many packages offer unlimited data for tourists)

• Validity period (matching your stay duration - options range from 5 days to 30 days)

• International calling capabilities (if needed to call home)

• SMS allowance (for verification codes and notifications)

• Speed caps (some unlimited plans may throttle speeds after certain usage)

• SIM Cards for Tourists in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City: A Complete Guide

At both Noi Bai International Airport and Tan Son Nhat International Airport, the primary providers Viettel, Vinaphone, and Mobifone offer a range of plans to suit different traveler needs. Many kiosks provide tourist-friendly packages that include unlimited data, allowing travelers to stay connected without worrying about running out of data.

Viettel offers the most comprehensive nationwide coverage, making it an excellent choice for travelers planning to explore rural areas or remote provinces. Their tourist SIM cards typically include generous data allowances with validity periods ranging from 5 to 30 days. Vinaphone and Mobifone also provide strong coverage in urban areas and popular tourist destinations, sometimes at slightly lower prices than Viettel.

For travelers planning to use their phones extensively for navigation, social media, and video calls, packages with unlimited data are highly recommended. These typically cost between $10-15 for a 15-day period, providing excellent value compared to international roaming charges.

3. Way2go SIM Card Services at Vietnam Airports

For a trusted and hassle-free option, Way2go operates dedicated service points serving both arriving and departing passengers. As a specialized provider focusing on travelers' needs, Way2go offers comprehensive solutions that go beyond just selling SIM cards.

Way2go SIM Card Services at Vietnam Airports

Arriving passengers

For arriving passengers, Way2go provides SIM card services at:

1. Noi Bai International Airport (Hanoi): Terminal T2, 1st floor, International Arrival Hall

Address: 82 Nguyen Huu Huan, Ly Thai To Ward, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi

Hotline: +84 902227715

2. Tan Son Nhat International Airport (Ho Chi Minh City): International Terminal, 1st floor, Arrival Hall

- Arrival Hall - BEFORE Immigration

I COUNTER

• Located 10 Meters BEFORE Immigration Counter

• Adjacent Internal Landscape, opposite to the International Time Zone Clocks Area

- At EXIT A1 + EXIT A2 -  AFTER Immigration

G1 + G2 COUNTER

• After collecting your luggage and proceeding along the baggage conveyor, you will leave the Customs Clearance Area through Exit A1 or A2

• Look for the FIRST COUNTER row/line on your left at EXIT A1 or A2 to find CONSORTIO Counter

G3 + G4 COUNTER

• After collecting your luggage and proceeding along the baggage conveyor, you will leave the Customs Clearance Area through Exit A1 or A2

• G3 COUNTER: At Exit A1, please turn right. At Exit A2, please turn left to find the CONSORTIO Counter located in the middle of the Arrival Hall

• G4 COUNTER: At both Exit A1 and Exit A2, please turn right to find the CONSORTIO Counter located in the right of the Arrival Hall

These service points offer a variety of SIM card packages tailored to travelers, including unlimited data, local and international calling options, and eSIM solutions. Way2go's trained staff provide English-speaking support, helping you choose the best plan for your trip. Their staff can assist travelers in multiple languages, making the process smooth even for first-time visitors to Vietnam.

The Way2go service stands out for its comprehensive approach - not only do they help you select the appropriate package, but they also assist with installation, activation, and configuration of your device. This ensures that you leave their counter with a fully functioning connection, ready to explore Vietnam.

Departing passengers

For departing passengers, Way2go also offers international SIM cards and eSIM services at:

• Hanoi: 82 Nguyen Huu Huan, Ly Thai To Ward, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi

• Tan Son Nhat International Airport (Ho Chi Minh City): 29/24 Yen The, Tan Binh District, Hanoi. 

These services are particularly valuable for Vietnamese travelers heading abroad and international visitors preparing for their next destination. Way2go provides international roaming SIM cards covering multiple countries, regional travel SIMs for Southeast Asia, and global eSIM packages that work in over 100 countries.

Unlike street vendors, Way2go guarantees that all SIM cards are officially registered and activated on the spot, eliminating any risk of faulty or inactive SIMs. Their registration process complies with all local regulations, providing peace of mind for travelers concerned about using properly registered telecommunications services.

Way2go's pricing is transparent, with no hidden fees or charges. Their packages often include additional benefits such as airport lounge access, travel insurance, or discounts on local attractions, adding extra value beyond just mobile connectivity.

4. Documents Required to Purchase a SIM Card Airport

Documents Required to Purchase a SIM Card Airport

When purchasing a SIM card in Vietnam, you are required to provide a valid passport for registration. This regulation is in place to ensure security and compliance with local telecom laws. Some vendors may ask you to fill out a registration form or have your passport scanned before activating the SIM card.

The registration process typically involves:

1. Presenting your passport to the vendor

2. Completing a simple registration form with basic information

3. Having your passport information recorded in the telecom provider's system

4. Verification of your identity through the documented information

This process usually takes only a few minutes and is a standard procedure for all legitimate SIM card providers in Vietnam. The registration requirement helps authorities combat illegal activities and ensures that all mobile users can be identified if necessary

Activating your SIM card is a simple process:

1. Insert the SIM card into your phone and restart the device

2. Some providers may require you to dial a short activation code or follow on-screen instructions

3. Ensure that your APN settings are correctly configured for mobile data

4. Test the connection by browsing a website or making a test call

Most SIM card vendors will assist with activation at the point of purchase, ensuring that your phone is ready to use before you leave the kiosk. Way2go staff are particularly helpful with this process, offering full setup assistance in multiple languages. They will typically verify that your device is properly connected to the network and demonstrate how to check your balance and data usage.

For smartphones with dual SIM capability, you can keep your home country SIM installed along with the Vietnamese SIM, allowing you to receive calls and texts on your regular number while using the local SIM for data. Modern phones also offer eSIM technology, which Way2go supports for compatible devices.

While airport SIM cards may be slightly more expensive than those purchased in the city, they save time and ensure immediate internet access. For a hassle-free experience, visit Way2go's official service points, where you can find competitively priced packages and multi-lingual support.

📞 Contact and buy Way2go Travel SIM Today!

Website: https://way2go.vn

Hotline: 090.222.7715

Email: [email protected]