Best Gibraltar SIM cards for Travelers

This guide includes important information on purchasing prepaid Gibraltar SIM cards, such as prices, types, where to buy them, and the best options available.

If you’re planning a trip to Gibraltar, getting a local SIM card is a great way to stay connected. Gibraltar SIM cards offer affordable options for making calls, sending texts, and accessing the internet while you explore this interesting country. Whether you need a prepaid SIM with data, voice minutes, or just basic connectivity, this guide will help you understand everything you need to know to choose the right SIM card for your trip.

I. What are the Best Gibraltar SIM cards for Tourists?

If you want to buy a SIM card in Gibraltar, Gibtelecom is your only option.

There are 03 types of packages for mobile:

• No Contract mobile plans 

• Pay Monthly

• Pay as you go

Pay Monthly Mobile Plans

Plan	Data	Local Minutes & Texts	Price
25GB Plan	25GB	100	£20
50GB Plan	50GB	250	£30
75GB Plan	75GB	500	£40
100GB Plan	100GB	750	£50
200GB Plan	200GB	1000	£60

No Contract Mobile Plans

Plan	Data	Local Minutes & Texts	Price
10GB Plan	10GB	50	£15
20GB Plan	20GB	75	£20
30GB Plan	30GB	100	£25

Pay As You Go Data Bundles:

Data Bundle	SMS Code	Price
3GB Bundle	DATA3GB	£13
7GB Bundle	DATA7GB	£17
12GB Bundle	DATA12GB	£20
20GB Bundle	DATA20GB	£25
7 Day Unlimited Pass	DATA7	£15

SMS Bundle

Bundle	SMS Code	Price
100 SMS	SMS100	£5

You can purchase these bundles online, via the MyGibtelecom app, or by sending an SMS code to 8100.

Besides, tourists also have data boost options:

• 2GB Boost: Price : £10

• 5GB Boost: Price : £14

• 8GB Boost: Price : £18

• 15GB Boost: Price : £23

II. Where to Buy SIM Cards in Gibraltar for Tourists?

If you prefer to buy a SIM card after arriving in Gibraltar, you can easily find them at airports, convenience stores, and official mobile network provider stores.

1. Buy Gibraltar SIM Card Online

You can purchase Gibraltar SIM cards online through various platforms and providers:

• Telecom Provider Websites : Check the official websites of major providers like Gibtelecom. They may offer online purchasing options or information about authorized resellers.
  
• Online Retailers : Look for international online retailers that specialize in SIM cards, such as Gigago, Amazon, or eBay.
  
• Travel SIM Providers : Consider websites that focus on travel SIM cards that might offer plans for Gibraltar.
  

Suitable for : Individuals moving to Gibraltar who need a quick way to get connected.

Pros :

• Immediate Connectivity : Get your SIM card ready to use as soon as you arrive in Gibraltar.

• Convenience : Avoid searching for a SIM card vendor upon arrival.

• Preloaded Plans : Many overseas SIM cards come with preloaded data, call, and text plans designed for travelers.

Cons :

• Shipping Time : It may take longer to receive the SIM card, potentially delaying activation.

• Limited Options : Online availability might be less than in-store options.

• Verification Issues : Some providers may require in-person verification, complicating the online purchase process.

2. Buy SIM Card at Gibraltar Airports

Major airports in Gibraltar, such as Gibraltar International Airport, have facilities for purchasing SIM cards from local mobile network providers, including Gibtelecom. You can find SIM cards at duty-free stores, kiosks, and mobile service provider booths.

Suitable for : People on short business trips or those without prior arrangements.

Pros :

• Immediate Access : Get mobile services right after you arrive.

• Assistance with Setup : Staff members may help you set up your SIM.

Cons :

• Higher Prices : Prices may be higher compared to city centre.

• Fewer Options : Limited choices compared to city stores.

• Complex Registration : You’ll need to present your passport or have your photo taken for registration.

3. Buy SIM Card in Gibraltar City

If you’re in Gibraltar City, you can find mobile service providers’ official stores, kiosks, or authorized retailers throughout the city.

Suitable for : Travelers already in Gibraltar City looking for affordable mobile plans.

Pros :

• Competitive Rates : Prices are generally better than at the airport.

Cons :

• Manual Activation : Some SIM card operators require a manual activation process, which can take time.

• Identification Required : You may need to provide ID to register your SIM card.

You can use Google Maps to find the nearest mobile stores. Here are some locations you can check out:

• Customer Service Centre: Suite 801 Europort – Telephone: 200 52200.

• Store: 15-21 John Mackintosh Square, (Town Area) GX11 1AA- Telephone: 20052200.

III. How Much is a Tourist Gibraltar SIM Card?

Generally, Gibtelecom offers Pay As You Go options starting around £13 for basic data bundles, Pay monthly starting at £20 for data and call & texts or No contract packages starting at £15. Specific tourist SIM packages may also include data, local calls, and texts.

Gibtelecom offers several different types of plans:

• 3 GB valid for 30 days for GBP 13

• 20 GB valid for 30 days for GBP 125

• 50 GB valid for 30 days for GBP 30

• 100 GB valid for 30 days for GBP 50

• Unlimited valid for 7 days for GBP 15

For the most accurate pricing and available packages, it’s best to check directly with Gibtelecom or at local retailers upon arrival.

IV. What types of Gibraltar SIM cards are available for tourists?

In Gibraltar, you can choose between two types of SIM cards: prepaid physical SIM cards and travel eSIMs. Each type has features that cater to the needs of tourists, whether you need internet access, calling, or texting.

1. Prepaid Physical SIM Cards

There are two types of prepaid physical SIM cards for tourists:

• Data-Only Package : This option gives you internet access but no phone number, so you can’t make calls or send texts. It’s perfect for travelers who just want to use maps, browse the web, or use apps like Facebook and Instagram.
  
• Data and Voice Package : This option includes both internet access and a phone number, allowing you to make calls and send texts. Choose this if you need both data and communication during your trip.

2. Prepaid Travel eSIMs

A prepaid travel eSIM is a modern option that you can buy and activate online. It lets you use two SIMs at the same time, so you can keep your original phone number while getting internet access with the eSIM.

However, not all phones support eSIM technology, so check if your device is compatible. Like physical SIMs, eSIMs also come in two types: data-only and data plus calling and texting options.

Prepaid Physical SIM Card	Prepaid eSIM
Pros	Pros
– Affordable	– Easy online purchase
– Various packages	– Use two SIMs at once
– Widely available	– Quick to switch providers
– Works with most unlocked devices
Cons	Cons
– Must be bought in-store	– Not all devices support eSIM
– May face language barriers	– Requires internet for activation
– Risk of loss or damage

V. Do I Need to Buy a Sim Card for Gibraltar travel?

Yes! If you’re planning a trip to Gibraltar, getting a local SIM card can be very helpful. Here are some great benefits of using a Gibraltar SIM during your travels:

• Affordable Calling and Texting : Gibraltar SIM cards allow tourists to call and text loved ones at much lower rates than international roaming fees from your regular plan.

• Reliable Mobile Data Access : You’ll have fast 4G internet, making it easy to look up maps, share photos, and stay connected.

• Variety of Plans : Carriers like Gibtelecom offer different SIM card plans, from short-term options to monthly plans, to fit your trip length and budget.

• Convenience : With a Gibraltar SIM, you won’t need to rely on public Wi-Fi hotspots. You’ll have reliable cellular service anywhere, at an affordable price.

For all these reasons, getting a prepaid SIM for Gibraltar is highly recommended. It will make communication easier during your stay.

VI. What to prepare when buying a SIM card in Gibraltar?

Before you buy a SIM card in Gibraltar, here are a few simple things to prepare:

• Prepare Your Passport : Most carrier shops will require you to show your ID to register and activate your Gibraltar SIM card.

• Check Phone Compatibility : Ensure your phone is unlocked and can work with a Gibraltar SIM.

• Decide on Data Needs : Think about how you’ll use your phone during your visit and choose a plan that fits.

• Have Local Currency : SIM cards are usually paid for in Gibraltar’s local currency, Gibraltar Pound (GIP).

• Provide a Phone Number : The mobile network provider will ask for a number to link with your new SIM.

With these items ready, you’ll be set to get a reliable SIM card and stay connected during your travels in Gibraltar.

VII. Gibraltar eSIM – alternative to Tourist SIM cards

For international tourists with eSIM-enabled devices, a Gibraltar eSIM is a great choice and offers several advantages over traditional physical prepaid SIM cards. 

Here’s why you might want to choose a digital SIM for Gibraltar :

• Buy from Home : You can purchase and download your Gibraltar eSIM plan before you arrive, so you’re ready to go as soon as you land.

• Instant Activation : With an eSIM, you can connect to mobile data in Gibraltar with just a few taps on your phone. There’s no waiting in line to buy and activate a physical SIM card.

• No ID Required : eSIMs don’t need any paperwork or passport verification, making the setup process very simple.

• Data-Only Options : This is perfect for those who only need cellular data and use apps for calls and texts, which can be more affordable.

• Environmentally Friendly : Using a digital eSIM reduces waste from plastic SIM cards.

The convenience of a Gibraltar eSIM makes it a great alternative to a traditional tourist SIM card, allowing you to get online quickly and easily upon arrival.

If you’re looking for a reliable provider for digital SIM services in Gibraltar, Gigago is a top recommendation. Signing up and activating is as easy as buying a package online and scanning a QR code.

With Gigago, Tourists can expect these benefits below: 

• Coverage area: Gibraltar and 42 other European countries

• No ID requirements

• Internet speed: Expect to have 4G/LTE/5G speed.

• Installation: Scan QR code or enter installation code manually

• Activation: Automatic, activated when connected to a supported cellular network

• Payment: Credit card/Debit card, PayPal

• Delivery: Instant, via email, within 5 minutes after purchase

• Validity of QR code: Within 30 days after purchase

For Gibraltar, Gigago offers multiple data plan options, starting from 300 MB/day for 7 days with $11.10 . What is great about Gigago’s Gibraltar eSIM is that its plans’ costs are diversifying, varying between $11.10 – $36.50 . Thus, it does not matter how Internet users you are and how long your trip is in Gibraltar, there is always an option for you with Gigago.

VIII. How long does a tourist SIM card last in Gibraltar?

In Gibraltar, the duration of a tourist SIM card can vary based on the type of plan you choose:

• Pay As You Go SIM Cards : These typically do not expire as long as you continue to top up your account. However, if you don’t use the SIM card for a certain period (usually around 90 days), it may become inactive.
  
• Data Bundles : If you purchase a specific data bundle, it usually lasts for a set period, such as 30 days. After this period, any unused data will expire.
  
• 7-Day Unlimited Data Pass : This pass lasts for 7 days, after which you will need to renew it or purchase a new bundle.

Always check the specific terms when purchasing, as they can vary by provider and plan.

IX. How to activate a SIM card in Gibraltar? 

Now that you know how to access the internet while visiting Gibraltar, here’s how to use your Gibraltar SIM card:

1. Activating Gibraltar SIM Cards for Visitors

Having a local SIM card makes it easy to stay connected in Gibraltar. Here are the simple steps to set it up after buying a SIM from Gibtelecom:

• First, turn off your phone and insert the new Gibraltar SIM card.

• Turn your phone back on and let it connect to the new network automatically.

• If prompted to choose a provider, select the one you got the SIM from.

• You can contact your SIM card provider’s customer support to check your account balance.

Once that’s done, you’re ready! You can now make calls, send texts, and use mobile data throughout your trip in Gibraltar.

2. Activating Gibraltar eSIM

Using a Gibraltar eSIM (the digital version of a SIM card) is also simple:

• First, ensure your phone is compatible with eSIM and can connect to mobile networks in Gibraltar.

• Purchase your Gibraltar eSIM plan online before your trip.

• To activate it, use your phone’s camera to scan the code that the eSIM provider emailed you.

• Follow the on-screen instructions to install the eSIM.

• Once installed, you can start using cellular services like calling, texting, and mobile data while traveling in Gibraltar!

X. FAQs

In summary, getting a prepaid Gibraltar SIM card is an excellent way to stay connected during your travels. Whether you choose a physical SIM card or an eSIM, you’ll have access to affordable mobile data, calls, and texts while exploring Gibraltar. Just make sure to do some research beforehand to find the plan that suits your needs best.