Buy Vodafone SIM Cards and eSIM for tourists in 2024

David Smith

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Published: June 2024

Hey there! Are you planning an Aussie adventure but want to stay connected? This guide on Vodafone SIM card and eSIM is your key to staying online in Australia. Forget roaming charges and confusing options – we’ll show you the best way to stay in touch, whether you’re a budget backpacker or a digital nomad. 

I. Quick facts about Vodafone

• Founder: 1992
• Full name: TPG Telecom Limited (but everyone calls them Vodafone)
• The brand name means “Voice of the people” in Latin (pretty cool, right?)
• Started with: Mobile phone service, and now offer internet, home phone, and more!
• Subscribers: Over 10 million happy Aussies connected with Vodafone
• Network: Huge! Stores and agents nationwide, plus heaps of points of sale.
• Need help? Customer care is on call 24/7 in multiple languages.
• Awards: Bragging rights for excellent network quality and customer service.
• Pros: Great coverage, especially in cities, affordable plans, and excellent customer service.
• Cons: 5G is still expanding in some areas, and some plans might have data limits.

II. Australia Vodafone Coverage and Speed in the Australia

Coverage and speed are crucial when picking a network provider, especially when considering Vodafone SIM Card and eSIM options. You want quick and dependable internet and phone connections wherever you go. How does Vodafone fare?

1. Vodafone coverage in Australia

Vodafone serves 96% of 23 million Australians. This does not mean Vodafone covers 96% of the region. Vodafone generally serves cities and suburbs, not rural areas. 4G and 5G networks require more towers and have a shorter range than 3G.

They’re putting out 5G in certain regions, but larger availability is coming. The dominating Telstra has more coverage than Vodafone, especially in isolated areas. Gigago’s multi-network eSIMs provide connection even in Vodafone’s weakest zones.

2. Vodafone speed

OpenSignal estimates 40-60 Mbps download speeds in Australia, and Vodafone matches that in major cities. Download speeds are 50.5 Mbps, and upload speeds are 9.5 Mbps. Gigago eSIMs regularly outperform Optus in outlying regions. This is important for remote picture uploads and video chats.

Conclusion: Vodafone provides decent coverage and speed in most tourist destinations. For high speeds or off-road driving, Gigago eSIMs may be preferable. Check locations for limitations and choose the best option for your vacation.

III. Vodafone connectivity options for travelers to Australia

Are you landing in Australia but wanted to stay connected? Fear not, traveler! Vodafone, known for its reliable connectivity, offers several ways to get you online, including Vodafone SIM Card and eSIM:

• Buy a Vodafone SIM: This classic option offers flexibility and affordability. Buy a Vodafone SIM card, choose your data plan, and pop it in your unlocked phone. Easy peasy!
• Use pocket Wi-Fi to connect to Vodafone: Traveling with a group? Rent a pocket Wi-Fi hotspot with a Vodafone SIM. Share the connection across devices, perfect for on-the-go adventures.
• Roaming to Vodafone: Keep your home SIM and roam onto Vodafone’s network. Convenient for short trips, but beware of hefty roaming charges!

Choosing Your Path:

Conclusion: A Vodafone SIM Card and eSIM are the champions for most travelers! It’s budget-friendly, offers control over your data usage, and lets you experience Australia without connection worries. So grab a SIM, choose your plan, and get ready to explore!

IV. Best Vodafone SIM cards for tourists & cost

Vodafone’s got your back with a range of SIM card options for your Aussie escapade! Let’s explore:

• Vodafone Prepaid: Budget-friendly hero offering customizable data packs to fit your needs. Prices start at $30 AUD ($22 USD) for 3GB, perfect for light internet users.
• Vodafone Red X: Data-hungry traveler? This plan boasts a generous 100GB for $60 AUD ($44 USD), ideal for streaming and sharing. Higher options are available for serious data addicts.
• Vodafone Family Share: Traveling with the fam? This plan lets you share a data pool across multiple devices, starting at $50 AUD ($37 USD) for 30GB. Additional data add-ons are available for extra peace of mind.

Are you wondering about eSIM? Vodafone offers it, but only for some tourists. However, fear not! MVNOs like Gigago provide eSIMs with competitive rates and instant activation, perfect for iPhone 15 users and anyone who wants a hassle-free connection.

► Remember: Prices may vary based on data allowance and current promotions. Check Vodafone’s website for the latest deals, including options for Vodafone SIM Card and eSIM, and choose the plan that fits your travel style and data needs!

V. Does Vodafone Australia support eSIM?

Yes, Vodafone does support Esim. eSim has several advantages compared to physical SIM, such as:

• No more fiddling: No need to swap SIM cards; perfect for travelers with locked phones.
• Instant activation: Scan a QR code, and boom! You’re online.
• Multiple profiles: Store different plans or even carrier profiles on one device.

Unfortunately, Gigago currently does not provide Vodafone esim for some reasons:

• Coverage: Vodafone’s eSIM coverage might be less extensive, especially in remote areas.
• Price: We prioritize offering the best value for your travel dollars, and other networks might offer better deals.

Fear not! We’ve got your back with Optus eSIMs, boasting more comprehensive coverage and competitive prices. Check them out and explore Australia with seamless, worry-free connectivity!

VI. Where can you buy a Vodafone SIM card and eSIM?

Ready to grab a Vodafone SIM Card and eSIM for your Aussie adventure? Staying connected with Vodafone is easy, thanks to various ways to grab your SIM or eSIM. Let’s explore:

1. Where to buy Vodafone SIM for Australia

You have 4 ways to buy a Vodafone SIM card in Australia:

• Airport Stores: Land and connect instantly with SIMs readily available at major airports.
• Vodafone Stores: Find them in cities, offering a more comprehensive selection of plans and expert guidance.
• Supermarkets & Convenience Stores: Basic SIMs are often available for on-the-go purchases.
• Online: Pre-purchase from Vodafone’s website for added convenience, especially during peak travel seasons.

Pros: Wide availability, physical card reassurance, and the ability to top up quickly.

Cons: Requires an unlocked phone, might require in-store activation.

2. Where to buy Australia Vodafone eSIM

You want to buy eSIM but need to know how. To buy eSIM from Vodafone, you have two options:

• Vodafone website: Visit their official website and check if eSIM is available for your phone. If so, buy and activate directly – connect instantly, no fuss!
• Third-party eSIM providers: Explore reputable online retailers like Gigago (now for Optus eSIM, offering more comprehensive coverage and competitive prices). Buy and activate through their platform – often faster and more affordable than operator websites.

VII. How to activate Vodafone Australia SIM/eSIM

Activating your Vodafone SIM Card and eSIM is a breeze! Let’s dive into the simple steps:

1. How to use Vodafone Australia SIM card

Following these easy procedures will prepare everything.

1. To install the Vodafone SIM card, locate the slot on your smartphone and carefully insert it.
2. Turn on your phone and wait for it to identify the new SIM.
3. In most cases, Vodafone SIMs are pre-activated, ensuring easy activation. If not, follow on-screen instructions or visit Vodafone for activation.
4. Manually set up your phone’s Access Point Name (APN) if internet connection troubles arise. The Vodafone Australia website has extensive APN settings.
5. Check your services. You’re ready after activation! Your Vodafone data subscription lets you phone, text, and browse.

2. How to activate Vodafone Australia eSIM

Getting started with a Vodafone eSIM for Australia is relatively easy, as follows:

1. Installation: Follow the specific instructions provided by Vodafone for your phone model. This usually involves scanning a QR code or entering an activation code.
2. Activation: After installation, you’ll need to activate the eSIM. This can be done through the Vodafone website or app using your My Vodafone account.
3. Setup: Select the Vodafone eSIM as your preferred data line, depending on your phone, and set up your data plan.
4. Connect: Start using your Vodafone eSIM for calls, texts, and internet access.

VIII. Alternatives to Australia Vodafone

While Vodafone offers solid coverage and plans, you might be curious about other players Down Under, including information on Vodafone SIM Card and eSIM. Here’s a quick peek:

• Telstra: The king of coverage, boasting the most comprehensive network reach even in remote areas. But be prepared for slightly higher prices.
• Optus: Innovative data plans and robust coverage, particularly in cities. A good balance between affordability and performance.
• TPG: Budget-friendly option with decent coverage in major cities, perfect for light internet users.

Looking for an affordable, wider-coverage eSIM alternative?No worries—Gigago has you! We provide Optus eSIMs for affordable peace of mind in distant areas. No SIM swaps required—instant activation is simple!

IX. FAQs about Vodafone in Australia

X. Final words

When looking for a dependable and quick network in Australia’s main cities and towns, choosing Vodafone SIM Card and eSIMs is a smice for visitors. If you want to go to rural and isolated places, consider using another provider with more excellent coverage.

Vodafone offers pocket Wi-Fi, roaming, eSIM cards, and SIM cards, but a SIM or eSIM is better for your device and preferences. These tips should help you choose the optimal travel connection. I hope your vacation is safe and pleasant!