Buying a SIM card at Berlin Brandenburg Airport (BER): Travelers Guide

This is a guide to introduce how to buy a SIM card at Berlin Brandenburg Airport (BER) for tourists.

SIM card at Berlin Brandenburg Airport

For many visitors to Germany, getting online as soon as they arrive is essential, and buying a SIM card at Berlin Brandenburg Airport (BER) makes staying connected simple. This tutorial offers advice on how to choose a SIM card at the airport so that you can use it for SMS, data, and calling while you’re in Berlin. To select the best fit, elements like data allocations, and network coverage will be discussed.

I. Where to Buy a SIM Card at Berlin Brandenburg Airport (BER)?

Berlin Brandenburg Airport map: places to buy SIM cards
Berlin Brandenburg Airport map: places to buy SIM cards

Finding a prepaid SIM card for Germany upon arrival at Berlin Brandenburg Airport can be difficult as choices are limited. There are only a few options, like Travelex or hub convenience.

What to prepare: Bring your passport because this will be required for identification purposes when you purchase the SIM card. While some stores might accept credit cards, it’s always a good idea to have some Euros on hand in case they don’t.

Cost: Generally more expensive than pre-purchasing online or buying in the city center. Expect to pay a premium for convenience.

Pros: Get connected immediately upon arrival without needing internet access beforehand. No need to research or purchase a SIM card before your trip.

Cons: Fewer choices. Instructions or communication with vendors might be in German. The kiosks or convenience stores selling SIM cards might have limited operating hours and may be closed when you land, especially at midnight.

Advice for travelers: You can consider buying a SIM card in Berlin city center or purchase an eSIM online if your phone supports it. They can provide more options, potentially better deals compared to the airport.

You can buy Germany SIM cards at Travelex in Brandenburg Airport
You can buy Germany SIM cards at Travelex in Brandenburg Airport

II. What to Prepare for Getting a SIM Card at Berlin Brandenburg Airport – Registration Process

Here’s what to prepare for getting a SIM card at Berlin Brandenburg Airport (BER):

  • ID Check: For verification, please bring a photo ID or a passport.
  • Phone Compatibility: Verify that the frequencies used by the Germany network may be used on your unlocked phone.
  • Data requirements: Based on the amount of data, call time, and messaging you’ll need, choose the ideal prepaid package.
  • Payment options: Bring cash or a debit card in case the establishment doesn’t take credit cards.
  • SIM size: Decide if you need a mini, micro, or nano SIM based on SIM size. SIM cards with adapter parts are offered by some retailers.

III. Compare Prepaid SIM card plans for tourists at Berlin Brandenburg Airport – Quick Reviews

Let’s compare the data plans of the major telecom providers in Germany: Vodafone, Deutsche Telekom (T-Mobile), and O2 (Telefónica).

  • Vodafone Germany: Known for extensive coverage and high-speed data services, Vodafone offers competitive prepaid and postpaid plans with various features.
  • Deutsche Telekom (T-Mobile): Offers one of the best network coverages in Germany with high-speed internet access and comprehensive plans.
  • O2 (Telefónica): Popular for its flexible and often more affordable plans, O2 provides a good balance between price and performance.

Data Plan Comparison

ProviderPlan NameData AllowanceOther FeaturesValidityPrice (EUR)
VodafoneCallYa Digital15 GBUnlimited calls/SMS in Germany4 weeks20
CallYa Classic3 GB200 minutes/SMS, EU roaming4 weeks10
GigaCube Flex50 GBHigh-speed internet, no contractMonthly34.99
Deutsche TelekomMagentaMobil Prepaid M5 GBUnlimited calls/SMS in Germany4 weeks15
MagentaMobil Prepaid L10 GBUnlimited calls/SMS in Germany4 weeks25
MagentaMobil XLUnlimitedHotspot function, EU roamingMonthly84.95
O2 (Telefónica)O2 my Prepaid S3.5 GB200 minutes/SMS, EU roaming4 weeks9.99
O2 my Prepaid M6.5 GBUnlimited calls/SMS in Germany4 weeks14.99
O2 my Prepaid L12.5 GBUnlimited calls/SMS in Germany4 weeks24.99

► Our recommendation: If you do not know which provider to choose, we recommend Vodafone, because Vodafone offers competitive prepaid and postpaid plans with various features, known for its extensive coverage and high-speed data services.

IV. SIM Cards Price At Berlin Brandenburg Airport

The price of a SIM card at Berlin Brandenburg Airport varies based on the provider, package, and data plan.

Prepaid sim card: 15 GB of data* with one month of unlimited talk and text in Germany comes to €40 EUR ($44 USD). Only valid in Germany; roaming inside the EU is not covered.

Generally More Expensive: Airport SIM cards are known to be pricier than those purchased in the city center. This is because of the convenience factor for travelers who need immediate connectivity.

Our advice: Check the websites of German mobile network providers like Telekom, Vodafone, or O2. They often have sections dedicated to tourist or travel SIM cards with pricing information.

V. Buy SIM card online for pickup at Berlin Brandenburg Airport

To ensure you stay connected during your trip, follow these steps to buy a SIM card online for pickup at Berlin Brandenburg Airport:

  • Choose a Provider: Research and select a telecom provider.
  • Visit Website: Go to the provider’s official site.
  • Select Plan: Choose a prepaid SIM card plan.
  • Purchase: Add to cart, provide info, and checkout.
  • Choose Pickup: Select Berlin Brandenburg Airport for pickup.
  • Receive Confirmation: Get a confirmation email with details.
  • Pickup: Collect your SIM card at the designated airport location with your ID and confirmation.
  • Activate: Follow activation instructions or ask staff for help.

By following these steps, you can easily buy a SIM card online and pick it up at the airport, ensuring you stay connected throughout your trip.

Benefits of Buying a SIM Card Online vs. Buying at the Airport

Buying Online

  • Better Deals: Often find more competitive prices.
  • Detailed Information: Access to comprehensive details about different plans.
  • Ready Upon Arrival: Assurance that your SIM card will be ready for pickup when you land.

Buying at the Airport

  • Immediate Availability: Purchase and activate your SIM card on the spot.
  • Staff Assistance: Airport staff can help with activation and any immediate issues.

Our Recommendation: To avoid long lines at the airport, buy your SIM card online for better deals and convenience, and have it ready for pickup when you arrive..

VI. How to active SIM card bought at Berlin Brandenburg Airport

Activating your SIM card bought at Berlin Brandenburg Airport is a process that the airport staff or clerks who sell you the SIM card will also take care of the activation. If you run into any problems, don’t worry! the staff will be there to help and make sure your SIM card is properly set up before you depart.

VII. Germany eSIM for Berlin – an Alternative to Prepaid SIM Card at Berlin Brandenburg Airport

Germany eSIM option for tourists landing at Berlin Brandenburg Airport.
Germany eSIM option for tourists landing at Berlin Brandenburg Airport.

No need to find a store for a physical SIM card at Berlin Brandenburg Airport, purchase a Germany eSIM online instead. eSIM technology is considered the future of mobile connectivity.

eSIM provides you instant internet access as soon as you land in Berlin. Travel eSIM allows you to switch between different mobile network providers easily while traveling.

You may look for eSIM retailers from home or access the free WiFi at Berlin Brandenburg Airport to make purchases. Travel Germany eSIMs are available from several reputable online sellers, such as Gigago. Gigago eSIM plans often suit many types of travel needs, with options ranging from $3.00$95.90 . Prices of Gigago Germany eSIM start at $3.00 for plans that include 1 GB of data used for three days.

VIII. FAQs about SIM card at Berlin Brandenburg Airport  

Can I buy a SIM card at Berlin Brandenburg Airport (BER)?

Yes. You can buy a prepaid SIM card upon arrival at BER airport. However, options might be limited compared to city center stores, and prices might be higher.

What do I need to buy a SIM card at Berlin Brandenburg Airport?

You’ll need ID, passport verification for purchasing a SIM card. You may also prepare some cash as some vendors might not accept debit or credit cards.

Are there any alternatives to buying a SIM card at Berlin Brandenburg Airport?

Yes. There are two main alternatives: Pre-purchase a SIM card/eSIM online or buy a SIM card in Berlin city center.