Australian travel SIM allows you to connect to Australian networks without international roaming, making communication and Internet access easy throughout your trip to Australia. So, can I buy a sim card in Australia, what sim card to buy in Australia, where to buy sim card in Australia, which sim is best in Australia? Living Nomads will suggest you the most complete and detailed guides in choosing an Australian travel SIM through this post: Best Australian SIM Card for tourists: Where to buy, how to active, use & MORE!
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Australia is famous for its modern cities and unique culture that makes anyone want to visit once. For your trip to go smoothly, an Australian travel SIM will be an indispensable companion. Not only does it help you easily find your way, book a car, contact relatives, but you can also surf the internet anytime, anywhere. So where to buy an Australian travel SIM, which type of SIM should you choose and how to activate it? Let’s find out with Living Nomads in this article!
Best Australian SIM Card for tourists: What is an Australian tourist SIM?
Australian tourist SIM is a prepaid SIM designed specifically for tourists when coming to Australia, can freely access high-speed Internet, make calls and send messages at a much more reasonable cost than using international roaming services.
One of the biggest advantages of Australian tourist SIM is its convenience. You can activate and use it immediately upon landing, without having to rely on unstable, unsafe public WiFi. Moreover, tourist SIM has a variety of packages from 7 – 30 days, helping you to proactively choose according to the length of your stay. The price of an Australian tourist SIM is about 23 AUD (~410,000 VND).
Australian tourist SIM is often classified according to the following criteria:
In terms of form:
- Physical SIM is a small SIM card that is attached directly to the phone, easy to use and compatible with most models with a SIM slot.
- eSIM is an electronic SIM that does not require a card, just scan the QR code to activate, very convenient, no worries about losing and can be used in parallel with the original SIM.
About the function:
- SIM with data (4G/5G): Suitable for travelers who only need to access the Internet, make video calls or communicate via applications such as Zalo, WhatsApp, Viber.
- Multi-function SIM (data + voice): Brings convenience because you can both access the network and comfortably contact in Australia or internationally when needed.
By coverage area:
- National SIM: Only used in Australia.
- SIM with regional coverage (Australia + New Zealand): Suitable if you combine traveling to many countries on the same trip.
The benefits of buying an Australian travel SIM
An Australian travel SIM helps you maintain high-speed internet connection throughout Australia at a very cost-effective price. You just need to insert the SIM into your phone without activating it. The great benefits of buying an Australian tourist SIM include:
- Avoid high international roaming fees when using an original SIM.
- No need to search for unsafe free WiFi spots.
- Some providers also allow you to try the SIM in Vietnam, giving you peace of mind about the quality.
- No need to register personal information like with an Australian domestic SIM.
However, your phone needs to be network unlocked and support bands compatible with Australian carriers to use the SIM effectively.
Where to buy an Australian tourist SIM?
To stay connected throughout your trip, you can choose to buy an Australian tourist SIM in Vietnam or buy it directly when you arrive in Australia. Each method has its own advantages, depending on your needs and preparation before the trip.
Buy an Australian tourist SIM in Vietnam
Buying a SIM in Vietnam will help you proactively choose the right package, reputable supplier and save costs. You can buy an Australian tourist SIM directly at tourist SIM stores in Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City or buy online through e-commerce platforms such as Shopee, Tiki, Lazada,…
When buying online, the SIM will be pre-activated and delivered to your home, you just need to install it and use it when you arrive in Australia. Some suppliers also allow you to check the SIM right in Vietnam to ensure quality. Australian SIMs in Vietnam have a reference price of 299,000 VND to 529,000 VND depending on the package, validity period and accompanying features.
Buying a SIM before departure will help you proactively choose the right package, saving time and costs. Some places you can refer to are:
SIM agents: You can buy SIMs directly at SIM stores in Vietnam. Not only do we offer a variety of packages, we also support you in checking your SIM if you encounter any problems. In addition, the price of SIM cards purchased in Vietnam is often cheaper than when purchased in Australia
Buy online: In addition to buying directly, you can order online on e-commerce platforms or reputable platforms such as Klook. With just a few simple steps, you can easily choose an Australian travel SIM package that suits your needs. Not only does it save time, but it also gives you many attractive discount codes.
You can refer to some types of Australian travel SIM cards, eSIMs or rent a pocket WiFi device on Klook such as:
- Australia 1-20 GB eSIM by Airalo
- 5G eSIM Australia and New Zealand | Optus Spark
- 5G eSIM Australia | Optus
- 4G/5G WiFi (MY Airport Pick Up) for Global 150+ Countries
- 4G WiFi (PER Airport Pick Up) for Australia
- 4G Portable WiFi (AU Delivery) for Australia
- 4G WiFi (SYD Airport Pick Up) for Australia
Buy a travel SIM card in Australia
You can buy an Australian tourist SIM card right at the airport or in major Australian cities such as Sydney, Melbourne, Cairns, Perth, Uluru… The SIM card price when purchased in Australia is from $10 AUD. However, buying a SIM card in Australia is often more complicated, requiring you to provide a passport, a portrait photo and possibly have to wait in line to get the SIM card.
Australian tourist SIM cards can also be purchased at post offices and convenience stores such as Coles, Woolworths, 7-Eleven, but the procedures are often more complicated and inconvenient.
In case you have not had time to buy a SIM card in Vietnam, you can completely buy a SIM card at international airports in Australia, supermarkets in the city such as Woolworths or Coles, or transaction counters of major carriers such as Telstra, Vodafone, ALDImobile, Optus,… Some airports also have automatic SIM vending machines, helping you buy more quickly.
However, buying a SIM card in Australia often takes more time because you may have to queue, especially during peak hours. In addition, the registration procedure requires providing a passport and residence information, so it will be a bit more cumbersome. The price of a SIM card purchased in Australia is also often higher than that purchased in Vietnam. If you need the Internet immediately to book a car or make a call, this method will be a bit inconvenient.
Australian travel sim card: Buy an Australian tourist SIM card from a virtual network operator (MVNO)
In addition to the three major network operators mentioned above, in Australia there are also virtual network operators such as Boost Mobile, Lycamobile, Lebara, Virgin Mobile, which share the telecommunications infrastructure of Telstra, Optus or Vodafone, but often have more attractive rates and incentives.
We suggest some SIM packages from Boost Mobile with many incentives in terms of price and features such as:
- Boost Mobile trial package with 5GB of high-speed data, unlimited calls and texts within Australia, used for 7 days, priced at 205,000 VND (~12 AUD).
- Boost Mobile SIM with 35GB of data, used for 29 days, including 100 minutes of calls to Vietnam and 3 AUD in the account, priced at 499,000 VND.
- Boost SIM with 45GB of data, used for 28 days, free unlimited international calls, priced at 595,000 VND (~35 AUD).
Popular types of Australian tourist SIMs
Australian SIMs are mainly divided into two types based on function: Australian 4G SIM (only providing data for Internet access) and SIM that integrates both data and calling features.
According to travel experiences, if you travel to Australia for a short time and only need to use basic utilities such as surfing the web, looking up maps, information or using social networks, you should choose a prepaid Australian 4G SIM. This type is usually cheaper than a SIM with calls by about 100,000 VND. In case you need a phone number to contact Vietnam directly, you can choose a SIM that integrates both data and calls. Below is some detailed information about each type of SIM so you can choose more easily:
Australian 4G SIM
Australian 4G SIM only provides Internet, does not support calling or texting via phone number. Some popular SIM packages such as:
| SIM Plan | Valid | Reference price |
|---|---|---|
| 6GB high speed 4G | Use within 10 days | 299,000 VND |
| 10GB – 12GB high speed 4G | Use within 30 days | 359,000 VND – 449,000 VND |
Australian tourist SIM with data, calls, texting
This type of SIM integrates both data and calling and texting services to Vietnam or within Australia (some SIMs can be used in New Zealand). Some popular SIM packages include:
| SIM Plan | Integrated services | Reference price |
|---|---|---|
| Optus Sim 60GB 4G/5G speed for 27 days | $5 AUD call to Vietnam (about 25 minutes) | 499,000 VND |
| Sim Boost 45GB 4G/5G speed for 27 days | 500 minutes of calls to Vietnam | 489,000 VND |
| Telstra Sim 35GB 4G/5G speed for 27 days | 300 minutes of calls + 100 SMS to Vietnam | 489,000 VND |
| Vodafone Sim 45GB 4G/5G speed for 27 days | 5 minutes call to Vietnam | 459,000 VND |
| SIM UNICOM 6 - 8 - 12GB high speed for 10-30 days (can be used in both Australia and New Zealand, cannot access TikTok) | 40-80 minutes of domestic calls within Australia/New Zealand | 299,000 – 489,000 VND |
Note:
- Most Australian tourist SIMs are prepaid SIMs, suitable for tourists and avoid unnecessary costs.
- Some Australian SIMs have limited access to TikTok, you should check the product information carefully before buying.3.3 Australian tourist SIM eSIM
If your phone supports eSIM, using an Australian eSIM is a great choice. eSIM or embedded SIM is a type of electronic SIM built into the phone, working like a physical SIM but does not require removal or installation, standing out for its convenience and high security. You can buy eSIM online and receive information via email just 5-10 minutes after payment, then install it by scanning the QR code. When arriving in Australia, eSIM will automatically connect to the local network, allowing you to comfortably use the Internet.
Living Nomads recommends that you install the eSIM 1 day or a few hours before departure to ensure a smooth installation process.
Which providers are available for Australian travel SIMs?
Australia is a large country, and when carriers claim 99% coverage, this number usually reflects the percentage of the population covered, not the entire territory. Therefore, in some remote areas, you will not receive a signal regardless of which carrier’s SIM you use.
In Australia, there are three major carriers: Telstra, Optus, and Vodafone, all of which support 4G and 5G services. Of which, Telstra has the strongest network coverage, followed by Optus and Vodafone. According to the travel experience of many travelers, Optus and Vodafone are better choices when buying a travel SIM. Telstra has the widest coverage but is more expensive and less preferred by tourists.
Specifically as follows:
Optus: Suitable if you travel a lot in big cities and have stable internet. Optus has a good balance between service quality and cost. Suggested Optus packages (including 100 minutes of domestic calls within Australia):
- 5 days: 5GB – $10 AUD
- 10 days: 12GB – $20 AUD
- 28 days: 35GB – $30 AUD, 45GB – $40 AUD, 55GB – $50 AUD
Vodafone: Optimized for densely populated areas and cost savings.
Telstra: Although more expensive, the coverage reaches 99.5%, especially strong in rural areas, highways and remote areas. Telstra’s 4G/5G speed is also rated higher than Optus. Telstra SIMs have longer usage time and offer unlimited calls and texts in Australia. Some popular Telstra packages are:
- 7 days: 2GB – $10 AUD
- 28 days: 15GB – $30 AUD
- 35 days: 30GB – $40 AUD
- 6 months: 60GB – $150 AUD
- 12 months: 150GB – $300 AUD
Distinguish between physical Australian tourist SIM and eSIM
Physical Australian tourist SIM
Physical SIM is a familiar SIM card, you will remove the original SIM and replace it with an Australian tourist SIM to use. This is the most popular choice because it is compatible with most phone models, including older models that are not equipped with the eSIM feature.
The advantage of a physical SIM is that it is easy to buy in many places such as convenience stores, travel agencies or pre-order in Vietnam. In addition, when there is a problem, you can also easily replace it with another SIM.
However, the price of a physical SIM is often higher than an eSIM. When using it, you have to remove and install the SIM, making it easy to lose the original SIM. If you often change phones or use multiple devices at the same time, using a physical SIM will be less convenient.
eSIM for travel to Australia
eSIM is an electronic SIM, no physical card is required. When purchasing, you will be provided with a QR code from the supplier, just scan the code and the SIM will be activated directly in the device. This brings maximum convenience, especially no more worries about removing or losing the original SIM.
The outstanding advantage of eSIM is that it can be used in parallel with the original SIM (dual SIM), very suitable for those who need to keep in touch with a Vietnamese phone number but still want to access cheap Internet in Australia. In addition, eSIM is extremely useful for those who travel to many countries, just need to scan a new code without having to manually change the SIM.
However, eSIM is only supported on new phone lines that support the eSIM feature such as iPhone from Xs and above, Samsung Galaxy S20 and above, Google Pixel… At the same time, the price of eSIM is often higher than that of physical SIM. If you want to use eSIM at a preferential price, please refer to the eSIM packages on Klook as follows:
How to activate an Australian tourist SIM
Activating an Australian tourist SIM will vary depending on the type of SIM you choose. It is very important to understand how to activate the SIM properly. Below are specific instructions for each type:
For physical SIM
A physical SIM is a traditional SIM, you just need to remove the old SIM and insert the Australian tourist SIM into the phone. Then, turn on Data Roaming mode so that the phone can connect to the Australian domestic network instead of the original network in Vietnam. This ensures that you can still make calls, send messages and access the Internet normally.
- For iPhone: Go to Settings – Mobile – Turn on Mobile Data – Turn on Data Roaming and 4G/5G.
- For Android: Go to Settings – Connections – Data Roaming – Turn on 4G/5G.
If after doing this you still cannot access the Internet, please check again or set up the APN according to the instructions from the network operator to ensure a stable connection.
For eSIM
With the Australian travel eSIM, when you buy it, you will receive a QR code from the supplier via email to activate it. Setting up the eSIM is very simple and only takes a few minutes.
- On iPhone: Go to Settings – Cellular – Add eSIM or mobile plan – Scan the QR code and save. Finally, turn on data roaming and 4G/5G to use the Internet immediately.
- On Android: Go to Settings – Connections – SIM Management – Add mobile plan, then scan the QR code or enter the code manually. After the installation is complete, just turn on Data Roaming and 4G/5G when you arrive at the country you want to use.
How to use an eSIM for Australia
Once you have activated your eSIM for Australia, you need to know how to use it properly to ensure smooth network operation. Here are some common and effective ways to use it:
Check the remaining capacity
Monitoring data capacity helps you avoid running out of network in the middle, especially when you need to look up information or make important calls. You can check in many ways:
- Through the application of the network operator such as Telstra, Optus, Vodafone. You just need to log in with your phone number to see the balance, remaining data capacity and the packages you are using.
- Check via SMS using the syntax provided by each network operator. For example, with Telstra, text “USE” to 176 to check data information.
- Another way is to check online via the network operator’s official website by logging in to your account or phone number.
- In addition, some networks provide USSD syntax such as *#100# or *#101# to check the balance right on your phone without the need for Internet.
Top up capacity
When your data is running low, you can buy additional packages directly through the network operator’s application or website. This helps maintain a continuous connection, avoiding interruptions while using the Internet to look up information, book a car or contact relatives.
Book a car online
With an Australian tourist SIM, you can easily book a car through applications such as Uber, Ola, or local taxi services. Just connect to the Internet, enter the pickup point and destination, the car will pick you up in a short time, helping to save travel time, especially when you are in big cities like Sydney or Melbourne.
Use Google Maps easily
A 4G Australian travel SIM helps you access high-speed Internet, so you can open Google Maps to look up tourist destinations, hotels, restaurants and find the exact route. This is extremely useful if you are coming to Australia for the first time and are not familiar with the transportation system or the location of attractions.
Domestic calls
Some SIM packages also support free or low-cost domestic calls to phone numbers in Australia. This is very convenient if you need to contact hotels, business partners, restaurants or local support services.
Paying travel costs
One of the outstanding benefits of an Australian travel SIM is that you can easily pay for expenses during your trip when you have Internet access. Typically, such as the fees for entertainment or sightseeing places in Australia that you have not yet booked on Klook. However, because many tourist destinations will be very crowded on weekends or peak times, we encourage you to book in advance for peace of mind.
Notes when using an Australian travel SIM
An Australian travel SIM is a quick and convenient solution for you to connect to the Internet, make domestic and international calls as soon as you arrive in the land of kangaroos. However, to use the SIM effectively and avoid unwanted problems, you need to remember some important notes below:
- Do not install the SIM too early before the flight: Some types of travel SIMs will automatically activate as soon as they are installed in the phone. If you install it too early while still in Vietnam, the plan may start counting from that time, causing wasted capacity or usage time. It is best to only install it when you arrive in Australia or when you need to use it immediately.
- Keep the SIM frame and purchase receipt: The SIM frame usually contains information such as PIN, PUK or QR code (if it is an eSIM). This is important information to help you restore the SIM in case of problems. At the same time, the purchase receipt will be the basis for you to get technical support or warranty if the SIM has problems.
- With eSIM, save the QR code before going to the airport: For eSIM, you will receive a QR code via email or application. Download and save this QR code to your device so that you can scan it easily even when there is no Internet connection. This helps you avoid interruptions when you need to activate the eSIM immediately after landing.
- When there is no network, try restarting or resetting the APN: Sometimes the phone does not automatically connect to the Australian network. In that case, restart your device or reset the APN (Access Point Name) according to the carrier’s instructions. This is a simple operation but often helps to quickly fix the connection problem.
- Turn off automatic app updates and video downloads: Phones are often set to automatically update apps or download videos when there is WiFi/4G. This will consume a large amount of data without you knowing. To save, you should turn off this feature in the settings and only update apps when there is free WiFi.
Understanding the above notes will help you optimize costs, maintain a stable connection and have a smooth journey to explore Australia, without being interrupted by problems.
Frequently asked questions
Which carrier should I buy an Australian tourist SIM from?
You should choose one of the two carriers Telstra or Optus. Telstra is famous for its wide coverage, especially in remote areas, suitable for those who want to explore rural areas. Optus has competitive rates, large data capacity, suitable for high Internet usage needs. Therefore, consider your schedule and needs to choose the right network operator.
Do you need a passport to buy an Australian tourist SIM?
When buying a SIM directly in Australia, you will need to present your passport or necessary information to register user information at the stores or SIM counters at the airport. This is a mandatory regulation to ensure network security. On the contrary, if you buy in advance in Vietnam or order online, you usually do not need to provide documents, which is very convenient and saves time when you can use it right away upon arrival.
Should you choose a physical SIM or an eSIM when traveling to Australia?
If your phone supports it, eSIM offers many benefits such as no need to remove or install the SIM, avoiding losing the original SIM and activating it simply by scanning a QR code. This is a compact and convenient option for frequent travelers. However, if you use an older phone that does not support eSIM or want an Australian phone number for easy domestic calls, a physical SIM is still a more suitable choice.
How much does an Australian tourist SIM cost?
The price of an Australian tourist SIM varies widely, depending on the package and duration of use. With eSIMs purchased online, the price usually ranges from 120,000 – 800,000 VND. Meanwhile, physical SIMs in Vietnam or Australia usually range from 230,000 – 900,000 VND for a large data package with domestic calling minutes.
Can an Australian tourist SIM be used in New Zealand?
Some international SIM cards sold to tourists have coverage not only in Australia but also in New Zealand. This is especially convenient for those who combine traveling to both countries on the same trip. You can refer to buying eSIM 4G Australia and New Zealand on Klook to connect to the Internet and make calls in both Australia and New Zealand, both economical and convenient.
With detailed information on where to buy an Australian tourist SIM card, as well as how to activate and use it effectively, you must have enough experience to choose the package that best suits your needs. Above is some information and experience in choosing an Australian tourist SIM card, helping you maintain communication and stable, high-speed Internet connection, bringing a more complete travel journey in the land of Kangraroos.
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