How to buy a SIM card at Antwerp International Airport (ANR) 2024: Best Plans + Updated Price

William Jones

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Published: July 2024

Many travelers face challenges when trying to buy a SIM card at Antwerp International Airport (ANR), impacting their ability to stay connected and make calls while in Belgium. This article offers a solution by providing clear instructions on how to easily acquire a SIM card at the airport, facilitating smooth communication for visitors.

I. Can I Buy a SIM Card at Simón Antwerp International Airport (ANR)?

Yes. While it’s possible to purchase a SIM card at Antwerp International Airport, it tends to be costly with limited package choices compared to other alternatives. Additionally, the process of queuing and waiting to complete the purchase can be time-consuming.

Tourists can consider buying a SIM card at the airport when they have the following needs:

• Immediate internet access upon arrival at the airport is essential.
• Prevent challenges in locating and purchasing a SIM card.
• Want to receive support for currency exchange and car rental when buying a SIM.

II. Where to Buy a SIM Card at Antwerp International Airport (ANR)?

Many tourists choose to use a SIM card to stay connected in Belgium due to its many outstanding advantages. Currently, travelers have two options to buy SIM cards when traveling: buy online before the trip or buy when arriving at the airport.

1. Buy online before departure and pickup at the airport

Travelers can choose to purchase a SIM card from an online retailer or directly from the mobile service provider’s official website. Prior to making a purchase, it’s essential for travelers to ensure that their phone is compatible with Belgium networks.

With this approach, travelers should obtain their SIM card one day before departure. This allows for advance activation of the phone, ensuring immediate internet access upon arrival in Belgium. Additionally, costs may vary depending on the delivery location.

Pros:

• Easy ordering process.
• Visitors proactively set the time and time to receive the SIM card.
• SIM cards are usually pre-activated, allowing immediate use upon arrival in Belgium.

Cons:

• International SIM cards are the only option available for purchase online, while local prepaid SIM cards in Belgium must be purchased in person.
• Not all mobile service providers in Belgium offer online SIM card purchases.

2. Purchase at the airport upon arrival

Upon finishing immigration procedures and clearing customs, travelers will encounter numerous SIM card kiosks at Antwerp International Airport (ANR). These kiosks are typically brightly colored, easily identifiable, and staffed with representatives ready to provide assistance.

Stores selling SIM cards at the airport can be found in the following locations:

• Around the baggage claim area: Near the baggage carousel, you’ll find SIM shops conveniently positioned near the baggage claim area.
• At the arrival hall: Kiosks of famous mobile companies in Belgium are located right in the lobby, with prominent “Buy SIM” signs throughout for easy access.

Pros:

• Immediate access to the Internet upon arrival, eliminating the need to wait until reaching the city center.
• Assistance from kiosk staff in the setup process.

Cons:

• Potential difficulty in communication due to language barriers with the staff at the SIM card kiosk.
• It’s crucial to verify the validity of your SIM card before departure to mitigate risks.
• Not all stores operate 24/7, making it challenging to purchase a SIM card if you arrive late at night.
• You will have to pay a much higher price than buying a SIM online or in the city center.

III. Do SIM card shops at ANR airport open after midnight?

No, not all SIM card shops at ANR airport are open after midnight. While you can find SIM card kiosks in the baggage claim area and arrival hall, the information provided warns that not all stores operate 24/7. This means that arriving on a late flight might mean waiting until the next day to purchase a SIM card at the airport.

IV. How Much Does a SIM Card at Antwerp International Airport Cost?

At Antwerp International Airport, the price of a SIM card can vary depending on the service provider and the specific plan selected. Typically, basic SIM cards range from €10 to €30, offering different options for data and call credit. However, it’s advisable to inquire about current pricing and any available promotions packages for travelers directly at the airport.

Belgium has three main network operators: Proximus, Orange, and Telenet. These companies provide a range of service plans at various prices and capacities, enabling travelers to choose the SIM card that suits their needs.

1. Best Proximus SIM Card Option and Price

2. Best Orange SIM Card Option and Price

3. Best Telenet SIM Card Option and Price

V. What to Prepare for Getting a SIM Card at Antwerp International Airport – Registration Process

Things to prepare when buying SIM card at Antwerp International Airport (ANR):

• Your passport: required for verifying information and registering the SIM card.
• Cash: It’s recommended to have Belgium currency or USD for payment, as cash is more convenient.
• Unlocked phone: Ensure your phone is unlocked and compatible with the Belgium network.
• The counter staff typically assists in setting up the SIM, so there’s no need to bring a SIM removal tool.

Procedures for purchasing and using Antwerp International Airport:

• Select a mobile service provider based on your personal preferences and specific needs.
• Choose from available options and packages designed with travelers in mind, then choose the package that’s best for you..
• Complete the payment for the selected SIM card and plan.
• Provide your passport for SIM card registration purposes.
• Follow the instructions provided to insert the SIM card into your phone and adjust the settings accordingly.
• Test your new SIM card to confirm that it is working correctly.

VI. Belgium eSIM for Brussels – an Alternative to Prepaid SIM Card at Antwerp International Airport

Travelers looking for a flexible and cost-effective mobile solution to access the Internet in Belgium, eSIM will be an ideal choice. When compared to data roaming or mobile Wi-Fi, eSIM offers more service plans at more affordable prices.

Visitors interested in purchasing a Belgian eSIM can explore the options available at Gigago. With a 100% online process, customers will receive the eSIM via email and can activate it with a QR code, ensuring instant connection upon arrival.

Gigago’s eSIM completely eliminates data roaming charges and extends calling and messaging services through popular apps like WhatsApp, Telegram and Facetime. This allows travelers to save on connection costs.

VII. Where to Buy a SIM card Outside Antwerp International Airport?

Besides buying a SIM card at Antwerp International Airport, travelers have the option to purchase one at various locations across Belgium. Including convenience stores, shopping malls, train stations, and official stores of mobile service providers.

Moreover, it’s advisable to inquire with the hotel where you’re staying, as many hotels in Belgium now provide SIM cards as a convenient service for tourists. Furthermore, these SIM cards are typically affordable. However, tourists might encounter challenges purchasing SIM cards in the city due to language barriers.

Our recommendation:

• You can purchase a Belgium SIM card either at the airport or at numerous stores, hotels, and train stations within the city.
• If your phone supports eSIM, consider using it because this option offers a simple and cost-effective activation process.

VIII. FAQs

IX. Conclusion

The above article shares details on how to buy a SIM card at Antwerp International Airport (ANR). Hope you have saved useful information and please visit Gigago to check for a new Belgium SIM at a discounted price for your upcoming trip.