This guide helps tourists select the correct SIM card, manage costs, and activate the service. You’ll learn about Ice’s coverage, the best SIM options, eSIM support, and how to purchase and activate your Ice SIM or eSIM.
How to Get Mobile Internet in Norway for Travelers: What Option to Choose?
Finding reliable mobile internet in Norway can be crucial for travelers who need constant connectivity.
This article is for tourists visiting Norway who may face difficulties such as high roaming charges, limited Wi-Fi availability, and the hassle of finding the best internet options. By reading this, you will gain insights into the mobile internet in Norway, understand the costs, and explore various connectivity options, including the recommended best retailer for Norway eSIM.
In this article
I. Mobile Internet in Norway – Coverage and Speed
Norway shows impressive mobile internet coverage and speed, ranking among the top countries globally for mobile network experience. Based on recent data on Opensignal, let’s take a closer look at these offerings in Norway.
1. Norway Mobile Internet Coverage
Overall, Norway enjoys excellent mobile internet coverage, ensuring users can stay connected in most areas.
- Coverage Experience: Telenor leads with 8.1, followed by Telia (7.9) and Ice (4.9).
- 5G Coverage: Telia tops with 3.8, ahead of Telenor (3.4) and Ice (1).
- Availability: Ice leads with 98.8%, then Telenor (98.0%) and Telia (97.8%).
- 5G Availability: Telenor and Telia are tied (~11.1%), Ice at 8.1%.
► Recommendation: While all three operators offer good coverage, Telenor stands out with its overall coverage experience score of 8.1, indicating a more consistent and reliable nationwide network. Telia excels in 5G coverage experience, making it a strong contender for users prioritizing 5G access.
2. Norway Mobile Internet Speed
Norway’s mobile internet speed is consistently high, among the top performers globally.
- Download Speed: Telenor leads at 119.9 Mbps, Telia at 99.5 Mbps, and Ice at 52.9 Mbps.
- Upload Speed: Telenor and Telia are both at ~19.5 Mbps, Ice at 15.3 Mbps.
- 5G Download: Telenor at 314.4 Mbps, Telia at 262.7 Mbps, Ice at 132.4 Mbps.
- 5G Upload: Telenor and Telia at around 43 Mbps, Ice at 27.2 Mbps.
► Recommendation: Telenor consistently delivers the fastest mobile internet speeds in Norway, both for overall download and upload speeds and 5G speeds. This makes Telenor the top choice for users seeking the most robust, high-speed mobile internet experience.
II. What are Connectivity Options for Tourists in Norway?
When traveling to Norway, staying connected is essential. Here are the main connectivity options for tourists:
- Norway SIM Card
- Norway eSIM
- Roaming with Norway Operators
- Public WiFi
- Pocket WiFi
Comparison of Connectivity Options
Method | How It Works | Cost | Where to Buy | Convenience | Pros | Cons |
Norway SIM Card | Physical SIM card inserted into your phone | Moderate | Airports, local shops, online | Simple, requires SIM slot | Local rates, easy to find | Requires physical SIM swap, may not fit all devices |
Norway eSIM | Digital SIM downloaded to your phone | Low to Moderate | Online, through mobile apps | Very convenient, no physical card needed | Instant activation, multiple plans available | Requires eSIM-compatible phone, not all devices supported |
Roaming | Use your home SIM card with international roaming | High | Provided by home carrier | No setup, use same number | No additional setup required | Expensive, dependent on home carrier’s rates |
Public WiFi | Connect to free or paid WiFi networks in public places | Free to Low | Cafes, hotels, public spots | Convenient, no extra device needed | Free in many places | Not always reliable or secure, limited coverage |
Pocket WiFi | Rent a portable WiFi hotspot device | Moderate to High | Online, rental stores | Can connect multiple devices | Reliable connection anywhere you go | Must carry an extra device, battery life dependent |
► Recommendation: To stay connected well in Norway, buy a SIM card with data for affordability and coverage. If you have an eSIM-compatible phone, using an eSIM is the best option because it’s easy to activate, eliminates the need for a physical card, and can be set up online before your trip.
Tip: Before buying a SIM card for Norway, ensure your phone is unlocked. For eSIM users, verify if your phone is in the eSIM-compatible devices list.
III. Internet Rates in Norway
Good to know: 1 NOK = 0.09 USD, 1000 NOK = 93.22 USD (July 2024)
Here’s a detailed comparison of mobile internet rates in Norway.
Connectivity Option | Rate (USD) per month | Data allowance |
Norway SIM card | $9 – $73 | 500 MB – Unlimited |
Norway eSIM | $5 – $70 | 1 GB – Unlimited |
Roaming with Norway | $70 – $100+ | Varies |
Public wifi | Free | Varies |
Pocket wifi | $7 – $12 per day | Unlimited |
IV. Data SIM Card for Mobile Internet in Norway
Below are the leading data SIM card packages from top Norwegian operators: ice, Telenor, and Telia.
Operator | Package Name | Data (GB) | Validity (Days) | Price (NOK) | Price (USD) |
Ice | Small | 1 | 7 | 49 | 4.41 |
Medium | 5 | 30 | 149 | 13.41 | |
Large | 10 | 90 | 299 | 26.91 | |
Telenor | Mini | 1 | 7 | 49 | 4.41 |
Medium | 5 | 30 | 149 | 13.41 | |
Maxi | 10 | 90 | 299 | 26.91 | |
Telia | Basic | 1 | 7 | 49 | 4.41 |
Standard | 5 | 30 | 149 | 13.41 | |
Premium | 10 | 90 | 299 | 26.91 |
How to choose the right data SIM card?
- Consider your data needs: How much data will you use daily? Are you a heavy streamer or mainly using social media and maps?
- Validity period: How long will you be in Norway? Choose a package that matches your trip duration.
- Price comparison: Compare prices and packages across different operators to find the best deal for your needs.
Note: These prices are only for reference and may vary depending on the package and current promotions. It's always best to check the operator's website or contact them directly for the most up-to-date information.
V. Data eSIM for Norway – Best Option to Get Mobile Internet for Tourists
Tourists visiting Norway have several options for mobile internet. Two primary methods are:
- Buy from Norway operators
- Buy from Gigago
1. Buy eSIM from Norway Operators
Telenor, Telia, and ice Norwegian operators provide eSIM services, ensuring tourists stay connected throughout their trip.
How to buy?
- Visit the operator’s official website or physical store.
- Choose an eSIM plan that suits your needs.
- Provide necessary identification (passport or ID card).
- Make the payment.
- Receive the eSIM QR code via email or directly on-site.
- Scan the QR code with your phone to activate.
Pros
- Reliable network coverage.
- Local customer support available.
Cons
- May require physical visit and identification verification.
- Sometimes involves longer setup times.
2. Buy eSIM from Gigago
Buying an eSIM from reputable eSIM providers like Gigago is considered the most convenient and easiest solution. It offers the advantage of 100% online purchase, no need for a passport or ID card, no waiting for SIM delivery, and easy setup.
How to buy?
- Go to the Gigago Home Page.
- Select “Buy eSIM.”
- Scroll down to seek “Norway” or “Control + F” to find it.
- Choose a plan that suits your needs, budget, and trip duration.
- Make the payment.
- Wait to receive the email with the eSIM QR code.
- Scan the QR code or import the activation code manually.
- Turn on data roaming on your phone.
- Enjoy internet connectivity as soon as you arrive in Norway.
For Norway, Gigago offers multiple data plan options, starting from 500MB/day for 3 days with $3.00 . What is great about Gigago’s Norway eSIM is that its plans’ costs are diversifying, varying between $3.00 – $95.90 . Thus, it does not matter how many Internet users you have and how long your trip is in Norway; there is always an option for you with Gigago.
VI. FAQs
Is 5G mobile internet available in Norway?
Yes, 5G mobile internet is available in Norway, with major providers like Telenor and Telia rolling out 5G coverage in major cities and towns.
How do I check my mobile internet usage in Norway?
You can check your mobile internet usage in Norway by logging into your account on your provider’s website or mobile app. Most providers also send usage alerts via SMS.
What is the best mobile internet plan for heavy data users in Norway?
Unlimited data plans from Telenor or Telia are recommended for heavy data users. These plans offer high-speed internet without worrying about data limits.
Can I share my mobile internet in Norway?
Yes, you can share your mobile internet in Norway by setting up a mobile hotspot on your device.
VII. Conclusion
In conclusion, mobile internet in Norway is reliable and widely accessible, making it convenient for tourists. Top providers like Telenor and Telia offer competitive plans so users can enjoy fast and secure connections. You can expect good coverage and service in a bustling city or a remote area. For heavy data users, unlimited plans are available, ensuring smooth internet access nationwide.