Planning a trip to Vietnam and need a reliable internet connection? The best eSIM for Vietnam makes staying connected easy, offering affordable and convenient access to local data plans.
This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about using an eSIM in Vietnam!
What is an eSIM?
An eSIM is a built-in SIM card inside your phone that you don’t have to insert or remove; an eSIM is already embedded in your device. You activate it digitally by scanning a QR code or selecting a plan through your phone’s settings. This makes it a hassle-free and modern way to connect while traveling, eliminating the need for tiny plastic SIM cards.
eSIMs vs. Prepaid SIM Cards in Vietnam
To help you choose the best option for your trip, here’s a comparison of eSIMs and traditional prepaid SIM cards. Also, here we share this article for you to go deeper about which type of SIM is best for your needs.
| Feature | eSIM | Prepaid SIM Card |
|---|---|---|
| Easy Activation | Quick setup, just scan a QR code | Requires inserting a physical card |
| Multiple Plans | Great for frequent travelers, switch easily | One plan per SIM unless swapped manually |
| Internet Required for Setup | Needs Wi-Fi for activation | No internet needed to activate |
| Availability | Must be purchased online before travel | Readily available in Vietnam |
| Device Compatibility | Only works on eSIM-supported phones | Works on any unlocked phone |
| Acquisition Process | No need to visit a local store | Requires finding a shop |
| Environmental Impact | Eco-friendly, no plastic waste | Creates plastic waste |
eSIMs are becoming the go-to choice for travelers, especially with newer smartphones, tablets, and wearables supporting this technology. They offer a more seamless and user-friendly way to stay connected.
Why Choose an eSIM for Traveling in Vietnam?
Avoid Roaming Fees
Roaming charges can be ridiculously high! If you use your regular mobile plan in Vietnam without an international package, you could face unexpected costs. With an eSIM, you get local data at low prices, saving you up to 90% on data expenses. Consult this practical guide to learn more.
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Get Online Instantly
No need to waste time at the airport looking for a SIM card vendor. With an eSIM, you can buy and activate your plan before departure. The moment you land in Vietnam, you’ll be connected!
Activating an eSIM is a quick and easy process that can be done in three simple steps. First, choose a plan by browsing online eSIM providers and selecting the one that best suits your travel needs. Once you’ve made your purchase, you’ll receive a QR code, which you can scan with your phone’s camera to install the eSIM. Finally, your eSIM is activated instantly, allowing you to connect and start using mobile data right away.
An eSIM for Multiple Locations
Planning to explore more of Southeast Asia? Many eSIMs work in multiple countries, so you don’t need a new SIM every time you cross a border. This is perfect if you’re also visiting Thailand, Laos, or Cambodia.
Environmentally Friendly
More than a billion plastic SIM cards are produced every year, with many ending up as waste. Switching to an eSIM eliminates plastic waste and contributes to a greener planet.
Reliable Coverage Across Vietnam
Vietnam’s landscape ranges from bustling cities to remote mountain villages. A good eSIM ensures strong 4G/5G coverage not just in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City but also in places like Sapa, Ha Long Bay, and the Mekong Delta. Stay connected wherever your journey takes you!
How to Choose the Best eSIM for Vietnam
Finding the right eSIM for your trip can feel like a challenge, but keeping a few key factors in mind will help make the decision easier.
Network Coverage
Not all eSIMs provide the same coverage throughout Vietnam. If you’re staying in major cities like the capital Hanoi, most providers will work fine. But if your travels take you to remote areas like Ha Giang, you’ll want an eSIM that connects to strong local networks like Viettel, Vinaphone, or Mobifone. Always check the provider’s coverage map before buying to ensure reliable service wherever you go.
How Much Data?
Your data needs depend on how you plan to use your phone:
- Light user? If you only use Google Maps, emails, and light browsing, 1GB-3GB for a week should be enough.
- Moderate user? If you stream music, scroll through social media, or make occasional video calls, aim for 5GB - 10GB for two weeks.
- Heavy user? If you binge-watch videos, work remotely, or rely on video calls, unlimited data or at least 20GB for a month is best.
Some providers allow easy top-ups, so running out of data isn’t a big worry!
How Long Is Your Trip?
- Short trips (1-7 days): Look for a weekly plan with at least 1GB per day.
- Longer stays (2 weeks – 1 month): Choose a 5GB, 10GB, or unlimited plan.
- Frequent travelers: A multi-country eSIM covering Southeast Asia may be the most convenient option.
Calls & Texts vs. Data-Only
Most eSIM plans provide only data, meaning you’ll need apps like WhatsApp or Skype to make calls. However, some providers offer plans with a local phone number and call minutes, so check this if voice calls are important for you.
Do You Need a Hotspot?
If you plan to share your data with a laptop or another device, make sure your eSIM supports hotspot tethering. Some providers block this feature, so verify before buying. You can also take a quick look at this article to learn how to configure it.
Pricing
Pricing for eSIM plans varies depending on factors like data, provider, and coverage.
Budget-friendly options are available, with some providers offering affordable plans starting at just a few dollars.
For those seeking the best value, some services provide competitive prices along with reliable coverage. Additionally, unlimited data plans are offered by certain providers, although these tend to be on the pricier side.
Best eSIM Providers for Vietnam in 2025
Yoho Mobile
Yoho Mobile offers customizable eSIM plans, allowing you to tailor data and duration to your needs. For example, you can select plans with a lot of data for a certain number of days or choose a cheaper one, such as 3GB for 7 days for only $ 4.38.
They provide 24/7 customer support in multiple languages and have apps available for both iOS and Android. Payment methods are flexible, including major credit cards and digital wallets. Such flexibility and support make Yoho Mobile the best eSIM for many travelers.
Flexiroam
Flexiroam provides global eSIM coverage with various data plans. Pricing is competitive, with a 1GB plan for 7 days costing around $8. They support 4G speeds and allow hotspot usage. Customer support is available through their app and website, though response times can vary, and users have reported inconsistent connectivity in certain regions.
Jetpac
Jetpac offers affordable eSIM plans for Vietnam, making it a great option for budget-conscious travelers. For example, they offer a 3GB plan for 7 days at $7. However, it has the limitation of offering fewer larger data packages, which might not be ideal for heavy users who need more data.
Coverage includes 4G speeds, and hotspot functionality is supported. Customer support is accessible via their website, with generally positive feedback on responsiveness.
Saily
Saily offers eSIM services in over 150 countries, including Vietnam. For instance, a 10GB plan for 30 days is priced at $17.99. While Saily supports 4G connectivity and allows hotspot usage, you might experience unreliable connections in regions like Malaysia and the Philippines.
While Saily offers 24/7 customer support via live chat, feedback on response times and problem resolution has been mixed, so it might not be the most dependable option for those who need quick support.
Airhub
Airhub functions as a marketplace for eSIM plans from various local providers, which means the service quality can vary depending on the carrier you choose. For Vietnam, it offers an attractive unlimited data plan for 10 days at just $10.39. However, coverage and speed can fluctuate based on the local provider selected, though 4G connectivity and hotspot support are available on compatible plans.
While Airhub provides customer service through its platform, feedback is mixed, largely due to the diverse range of providers and their different levels of service.
How to Buy & Activate an eSIM for Vietnam
Step 1: Choose your preferred eSIM provider
Before purchasing, check if your smartphone supports eSIM technology.
Yoho Mobile offers good coverage in Vietnam and is a reliable provider. It’s a good idea to compare their plans to find the one that best fits your needs.
Step 2: Go to the Yoho Mobile Store
You can visit the Yoho Mobile website or download the Yoho app from the App Store. This will allow you to browse and purchase your eSIM quickly.
Step 3: Choose Your Destination, in this case, Vietnam
Select Vietnam as your destination, or choose a multi-country plan if you plan to travel across Southeast Asia. For example, if you’re also visiting Thailand, Cambodia, or Laos, you can get a single plan that covers all these countries.
Step 4: Customize Your Yoho Mobile Plan
Pick a plan that matches the length of your stay and estimated data usage. For example:
- Short trips (1-3 days): A 3GB plan is ideal for checking maps and messaging.
- Longer stays (5-10 days): A 10GB or unlimited plan is better for streaming and video calls.
- Business travelers: Choose unlimited data if you need constant internet access.
Step 5: Buy Your eSIM
Complete your purchase on the website or app:
- Enter your email to receive the eSIM details.
- Apply a promo code if available to get a discount. For example, the discount code YOHO12 for 12% off.
- Pay using your preferred method, such as credit card, WeChat, Amazon Pay, Alipay, or Cash App Pay, and enter your payment details.
Step 6: Install and Activate Your eSIM
Once you complete the purchase, you’ll receive an email with a QR code to activate your eSIM.
- Ensure you’re connected to Wi-Fi.
- Go to your phone settings → Mobile Data → Add eSIM.
- Scan the QR code sent by Yoho Mobile.4. Wait for activation. Your plan may start immediately or on a specific date.
Finally, you may also be interested in how to create your own personalized eSIM plan.
Things to Know Before Buying an eSIM in Vietnam
Always verify that your phone or device supports eSIM technology. So, we recommend you consult this list to find out if your device is compatible or not.
Also, some providers might have specific activation policies, so ensure you understand how and when the eSIM will activate.
Is an eSIM Worth It in Vietnam?
Absolutely! An eSIM is a convenient, affordable, and eco-friendly way to stay connected while traveling. It saves you from expensive roaming fees, works in multiple countries, and offers easy activation. Plus, with strong coverage even in remote areas, an eSIM ensures you’re always connected.
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FAQs About Using an eSIM in Vietnam
How much data do I need for my trip to Vietnam?
Your data needs depend on your usage. If you only use Google Maps and messaging apps, 3GB for a week should be enough. For social media and video calls, 5-10GB for two weeks is ideal. If you stream videos or work remotely, consider 20GB or unlimited data for a month. Most providers like Yoho Mobile offer plans with various data options to match your needs.
Does Vietnam work with eSIM?
Yes! Vietnam fully supports eSIM technology. Major local networks like Viettel, Vinaphone, and Mobifone provide eSIM coverage, ensuring strong connectivity. Yoho Mobile, Airhub, and Flexiroam offer reliable eSIM plans that connect to these networks, providing 4G and 5G speeds in cities like Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and even remote areas like Sapa and Ha Giang.
Can I use multiple eSIMs on one device?
Yes, most modern smartphones allow multiple eSIM profiles, making it easy to switch between plans when visiting other parts of Vietnam or neighboring countries.
Can I make calls and send texts with a Vietnam eSIM?
Most eSIMs are data-only, meaning you’ll need apps like WhatsApp, Messenger, or Skype for calls and texts. However, some providers, like Yoho Mobile and Airhub, offer plans that include a local phone number with call minutes.
Check out this guide for more details: Best eSIM for Calls and Texts.
What is the best eSIM for Vietnam?
Yoho Mobile is the best eSIM provider for Vietnam, offering flexible plans and excellent service, with reliable coverage and great value. Other options, like Jetpac, are budget-friendly but may not offer enough data for heavy users. Flexiroam has good global coverage but can have occasional connection issues, while Saily’s network reliability is mixed, making it less dependable in some areas. Airhub, a marketplace for local providers, offers variety but lacks consistent service quality.