Traveling in Vietnam is getting easier and more affordable thanks to the wifi coverage almost everywhere: airports, hotels, cafes, restaurants, the list goes on. However, what should you do if you need to use Google Maps to find an address, book a Grab from a dodgy bus/ train station, or even make an emergency phone call?

An eSIM is the answer.

eSIM (embedded SIM) or virtal SIM - is a small, programmable chip that performs the same function as a traditional SIM but is embedded directly into your phone and cannot be removed physically.

A SIM card – traditionally a small plastic card that slots into your mobile phone – is an acronym for ‘subscriber identity module'

1. WHY SHOULD YOU USE ESIM WHEN TRAVELING TO VIETNAM

Not only in Vietnam, eSIM should be used when you travel abroad if you do not want:

· to be shocked by the exorbitant roaming charges after trip

· to rely solely on wi-fi, hopping from one hotspot to another and doing everything while they’re on a free network.

In addition, you will need to directly register for an official SIM card with your passport if you buy a SIM card in Vietnam. Though the registration procedure doesn’t take long, you still will need to find the right shop to do it for you.

However, eSIM can help you to eliminate all hassles above with the following advantages:

1.1. Immediate activation

Do you know that you can activate your eSIM card online right at the time you buy it, without waiting for the SIM to be delivered by mail? Because eSIM is a virtual SIM, you don’t have to put any effort to insert the eSIM into your phone physically. What you need to do is just to install the eSIM with a very detailed instruction from the provider.

Not removing your current physical SIM card from your phone also means reducing the risk of losing it.

1. 2. Easy switch of the networks

While a physical SIM is tied to a specific carrier, an eSIM is carrier-independent. An eSIM can allow you to switch to the local network which provides the strong network for the region you are in. For instance, when you are in Vietnam, your eSIM can connect with VIETTEL, MOBIFONE or VNPT, which are the best mobile phone/ internet carriers nationwide. You can switch your network for your eSIM to one of these providers when you are travelling in Vietnam.

Mobile networks in Vietnam

*You can choose one from the most three popular netwroks in Vietnam.*

1.3. Reduce your carbon footprint

Another reason for eSIM to be loved is the fact that this evolutionary SIM can significantly reduce the material usage in the mobile phone industry. Obviously, the plastic SIM cards consume too much constructions of PVC, silicon and even gold, which make them difficult for home recycling. Meanwhile, virtual SIM chip allows for digitally loading SIM data anywhere around the globe.

As the climate crisis is accelerating, eSIM is absolutely playing a key role in protecting the environment.

2. DISADVANTAGES OF ESIM

Though eSIM has so many benefits and is considered the most evolutionary solution for mobile phone, there are still several drawbacks.

2.1. Not all smartphones have an eSIM

There is a fact that only the latest smartphones, tablets, and wearables are eSIM-supported, and many older devices are not. This can limit your options if you’re not using the new smartphones and technology.

2.2. More difficult to install and activate

With the traditional SIM card, you just need to insert the physical SIM into your phone, and it works. However, the process of installation and activation of the eSIM will take you a bit longer and a little effort. In case eSIM-compatible device becomes inoperable, you might face issues accessing or transferring the eSIM, potentially leaving you without service until the problem is resolved.

In addition, you will need a stable internet connection to install and activate an eSIM.

However, the benefits of using eSIM still outweigh the downsides, especially when you are travelling.

If you are a frequent traveler or often switch carriers or plans, eSIM is absolutely a right choice because of its flexibility, convenience, and security. An eSIM offers you a seamless roaming with digital carrier switching and provides you will flexible and pay-as-you-go pricing options.

3. HOW TO USE AN ESIM FOR YOUR VIETNAM TRIP?

Now is the time to start an eSIM for your Vietnam trip. However, there are a few factors you should consider before you kick it off.

3.1. Make sure that your phone/ devices are compatible with the eSIM.

These include:

Apple iPhones: iPhone XR, iPhone XS, iPhone 11, iPhone 12, iPhone 13, iPhone SE (2nd generation), and iPhone 14 and later
Samsung Galaxy: S24 / S24+ / S24 Ultra, Galaxy S23 / S23+ / S23 Ultra, Galaxy S22 / S22+ / S22 Ultra, Galaxy S21 / S21+ / S21 Ultra, Galaxy S20 / S20+ / S20 Ultra
Google Pixel: 3a and 3 XL or later
Motorola’s Razr: (only an eSIM, it doesn’t have a physical SIM card)
Samsung Gear: S2 and Gear S3 smartwatches and later
Apple Watch: Series 3 and later

You also can check if your device is eSIM compatible at websites of the providers.

3.2. Choose the right eSIM provider

The best five eSIMs for Vietnam travel are:

3. 2.1. Jetpac

Plans in Vietnam: 8

Network for Vietnam: Mobifone

Bonus: Free lounge access (if your flight delays)