Iceland is a popular tourist destination known for its breathtaking landscapes, northern lights, and adventure activities. With so much to see and do during your trip, having constant access to maps, translation tools, and travel apps is essential.
An eSIM allows you to access mobile data without using a physical SIM card. eSIMs are directly embedded into your phone, making them incredibly convenient for travelers. As more carriers roll out eSIM support globally, it’s now easier than ever to stay connected abroad.
In this guide, I’ll recommend the best eSIMs for visiting Iceland so you can avoid roaming charges and expensive international data plans from your home carrier.
Why You Need an Iceland eSIM
When visiting Iceland as a tourist, getting a local prepaid SIM card can be complicated, requiring you to visit a store in-person. Renting a portable WiFi device is also an option, but it’s another piece of gear to keep charged and carry around.
The most convenient and affordable way to get data coverage in Iceland is with an eSIM you can buy before your trip. eSIMs provide several key benefits:
- No roaming charges – eSIM data plans let you avoid expensive roaming fees from your provider back home
- Easy online activation – eSIMs can be set up directly on your phone with a QR code
- Better prices – Local prepaid SIMs with lots of data tend to be pricey
- Multi-country options – Some eSIM providers offer coverage in Iceland + other European countries
As more phones add eSIM capabilities, it’s only becoming more convenient for travelers to stay connected anywhere with flexible data plans.
Choosing the Best eSIM for Iceland
When searching for an Iceland eSIM provider, there are a few key factors to consider so you get exactly what you need:
1. Data Amount
How much data do you need during your trip? For light usage like maps, translations, and some messaging, 5GB can be plenty for a week. But if you plan to stream videos or music, you may want an unlimited data eSIM.
2. Duration
Will a short 7-10 plan cover your stay? Or should you get a monthly plan that lasts 30 days? Some providers let you customize exactly how long your eSIM is active.
3. Network Coverage
You want an Iceland eSIM that uses one of the major Icelandic networks like Siminn or Nova. This ensures solid 4G LTE coverage as you travel throughout the country.
4. Price Per GB
To maximize value, compare the price per GB between different data amounts from each eSIM company. A bigger data package isn’t always cheaper per GB.
Best Iceland eSIM Providers
Based on the criteria above, here are my top recommended providers to get an eSIM for travel in Iceland:
Airalo
Airalo is one of my favorite international eSIM providers for their flexibility and low rates. With plans starting at just 1GB, you can buy exactly the data you need at $3.25/GB.
For a longer trip, they have an affordable 10GB monthly plan with excellent Iceland coverage. Airalo uses the Nova network, includes free incoming calls, and is easy to set up right on your phone.
Plans
- 1GB – $4.99 (7 days)
- 2GB – $7.50 (15 days)
- 5GB – $11.50 (30 days)
- 10GB – $17.50 (30 days)
Flexiroam
Flexiroam provides both single and multi-country eSIMs, making them very flexible. With plans from 500MB up to 5GB, you can find one that matches your travel duration and data needs.
They use the reliable Siminn network locally with prices from $4 for 500MB short-term plans. Flexiroam also offers some unlimited data packages but speeds may be slowed after 60GB of usage per month.
Plans
- 500MB – $4.00 (3 days)
- 1GB – $8.00 (5 days)
- 5GB – $27.00 (24 days)
- Unlimited (30GB high speed) – $49 (30 days)
Dent
Dent takes a unique approach to global roaming with their free eSIM app and data credits. You only pay for exactly the amount of data, calls, or texts you end up using without an upfront data package.
They provide Iceland coverage through Nova’s LTE network. With data rates around $0.50 per GB, it’s very affordable pay-as-you-go access perfect for shorter trips if you won’t use much data.
Plans
- Pay only for data, calls, texts used (no base rate)
- $0.50/GB, $0.05/text, $0.05/minute calls
Getting an Iceland eSIM
The activation process works the same for most international eSIM providers:
- Select your data plan – Choose the right amount and duration based on your travel dates and needs. Always check that Iceland coverage is included.
- Pay and create account – Purchase your eSIM plan and make an account with that provider. You’ll get instant email confirmation.
- Activate eSIM – Using the QR code or manual details emailed, activate your plan directly on your phone. Takes just a minute or two!
That’s it! You’ll have a working Iceland eSIM ready for mobile data as soon as you land in the country. Being able to access Google Maps, translation tools, and travel apps is invaluable for exploring smoothly.
Other Questions About Iceland eSIM Cards
Here are answers to some frequently asked questions travelers have about using eSIMs in Iceland:
Can you get a local Icelandic eSIM?
Technically yes – major providers like Siminn and Vodafone offer eSIM support. However, their prepaid tourist eSIMs must be purchased in-person when you arrive rather than online in advance. As a visitor, it’s more convenient to use an international Iceland eSIM provider.
What’s the best eSIM network in Iceland?
The top mobile networks in Iceland are Siminn, Vodafone, and Nova. Leading eSIM providers like Airalo and Flexiroam utilize these networks to ensure solid 4G LTE coverage across Iceland. Nova tends to be the most budget-friendly local carrier option.
Is my phone compatible with Iceland eSIMs?
As of 2024, pretty much all iPhones from iPhone XS and newer support eSIM functionality. Many newer Android models also have eSIM capabilities, but you have to confirm your specific device model supports them. Check here for a full list of compatible phone models.
Bottom Line
Staying connected with mobile data while visiting Iceland keeps your trip running smoothly as you explore magical landscapes and attractions. With top international eSIM providers like Airalo and Flexiroam using reliable local networks, getting an Iceland eSIM is easy and affordable.
Avoid paying expensive roaming charges to your provider back home. Simply select a prepaid eSIM plan that matches your data needs and travel duration for the best experience.
eSIM for iceland
Whether you’ll be embarking on an Icelandic road trip or taking the scenic route via public buses, having constant data coverage is invaluable for using maps, translation tools, and other helpful apps. eSIMs provide Internet access without fussy physical SIM cards while saving you money compared to roaming.
Choose one of the top international eSIM providers using fast Icelandic networks like Nova to ensure smooth performance. Comparing amount of high-speed data, price per GB, and plan duration makes picking the best value straightforward.
Soon, you’ll be set with an Iceland eSIM ready to activate in just minutes once you touch down. With data coverage secured in advance, you don’t have to waste precious time visiting stores and can start enjoying iconic sights like the Blue Lagoon even faster!
