Optus SIM Cards & eSIM for Tourists: How to Get and Activate 2024

David Smith

|

Latest update: September 2024

Considering a vacation to Australia but worried about missing friends and family back home or at the workplace? Then a Optus SIM cards & eSIM can be a good investment for your trip. 

Among Australia’s many network providers, Optus stands out for the extensive selection of mobile plans and services it offers. For all your prepaid, pocket wifi, and eSIM needs, Optus has you covered. Learn everything you need to know about Optus SIM card & eSIM options in this comprehensive guide.

I. Overview about Optus – What you need to know

• Founded: 1992
• Full company name: Singtel Optus Pty Ltd
• Five Launching services: Mobile phones, fixed-line voice, internet access, data communications, and pay television.
• Types of services provided: Mobile, fixed broadband, satellite, and enterprise services.
• Number of subscribers: Over 10 million across Australia.
• Area covered: Extensive coverage throughout Australia, with strong signals in major cities and good accessibility in rural areas.
• Network of stores, agents, and points of sale: A large store and agent network makes services easy to obtain.
• Customer care policy: 24/7 customer support in English and multiple languages, including Mandarin, Cantonese, Hindi, and Vietnamese.
• Awards received: Innovative and sustainable, constantly placing among Australia’s best networks.
• Milestones: Pioneered 3G and 4G technologies in Australia launched Australia’s first 5G network in select locations.

Pros:

• Extensive coverage and reliable speeds.
• Wide range of affordable and flexible plans.
• 24/7 multilingual customer support.
• Innovative and future-oriented approach.

Cons:

• You could notice that the prices are a little more than the leading network.
• There are still certain regions where 5G coverage is not available.

II. Optus Coverage in Australia

Optus is featured with impressive countrywide coverage, unlike competitors whose signals fade in remote areas. Analyzing coverage maps from OpenSignal or nPerf to compare Optus’ reach against other carriers, you’ll see strong signals blanketing significant cities like Sydney and Melbourne, stretching deep into rural regions, ensuring you stay connected even while exploring hidden gems off the beaten path.

III. Optus Speed in Australia

Optus is a prominent Australian 4G and 5G network provider. In October 2023, Optus had an average download speed of 57.5 Mbps, according to OpenSignal. This was somewhat lower than Telstra (60.1 Mbps) but greater than Vodafone (50.5 Mbps).

Compare this to the national average of 35 Mbps, and you’ll see how Optus excels, allowing you to upload photos, stream videos, and navigate seamlessly without frustrating buffering.

► Our Recommendation: Optus helps you explore Australia with better coverage and speeds than rivals. Whether exploring new places or tackling hectic cities, Optus keeps you connected, informed, and ready to record every moment.

V. Top Optus SIM Cards for Tourists & Cost

IV. Does Optus Have eSIM in Australia?

Yes, Optus Supports eSIM in Australia!

Embrace the convenience and flexibility of eSIM:

• No physical card
• Easy activation
• Switch seamlessly

Deciding on the perfect Optus SIM card for your Aussie adventure depends on your data needs and budget. Here are some popular choices:

• Optus Prepaid Flex: This variable data plan (from 10GB to 100GB) and top-up choices are ideal for flexible travelers. Prices vary per data and validity period from $35 to $120.
• Optus Traveller SIM: This tourist-specific pre-paid SIM offers 35GB to 90GB data packages for longer visits. Data-hungry travelers get great value at $45–75.
• Optus Data SIM: This data-focused approach serves web visitors. Data plans range from 10GB to 100GB with 7–30 days validity. It’s inexpensive for required internet connection at $20.

Remember: These are just a few examples. Prices are in Australian dollars (AUD) and are subject to change.

Are you considering eSIM? Optus offers eSIM, although tourist alternatives are restricted. If your device only supports eSIM or you prefer convenience, independent resellers like Gigago provide varied eSIM packages utilizing Optus’ network at low costs and with fast multilingual assistance.

VI. Where to Buy a Optus SIM card?

There are 3 ways to buy an Optus SIM:

• Optus Stores: Stroll into any Optus store across Australia for immediate purchase and assistance.
• Online: Browse Optus’s website or trusted retailers to select and purchase your SIM card beforehand.
• Airports: Grab a pre-arrival SIM card at major Australian airports for a seamless start to your trip.

Pros: Immediate activation, diverse plan options, in-person support.

Cons: Limited availability in remote areas, potential wait times at stores.

VII. A Better Alternatives to Optus SIM Cards – Australia eSIM

There are 2 ways to buy Optus eSIM:

• Optus Website (future): Optus is still developing its eSIM services. Check their website for updates on availability.
• Independent Resellers: Explore resellers like Gigago for diverse packages, competitive prices, and, often, instant activation without registration.

Pros: Convenient, environmentally friendly, switch between eSIM profiles on compatible devices.

Cons: Optus’s eSIM services still need to be fully available, with limited device compatibility.

While Optus offers eSIM services, details are still evolving. For more comprehensive options and instant activation, consider independent resellers like Gigago.

Why Gigago for your Optus eSIM?

• Diverse packages
• Competitive prices
• Multilingual support

For Australia, Gigago offers multiple data plan options, starting from 1 GB for 3 days with $10.50 . What is great about Gigago’s Australia eSIM is that its plans’ costs are diversifying, varying between $10.50 – $141.50 . Thus, it does not matter how Internet users you are and how long your trip is in Australia, there is always an option for you with Gigago.

Ready to explore? Visit Gigago Australian eSIM and find your perfect Optus eSIM plan today!

► Recommendation: Packages 5, 10, and 20GB are famous for cost-effectiveness. Consider them for your Australian adventure!

Tips:

• Compare plans and prices before buying.
• Consider your data needs and travel duration.
• Activate your SIM/eSIM upon arrival to avoid data charges.
• Keep your passport handy for verification during purchase.

VIII. How to Top-up Optus SIM/eSIM

Ensuring your Optus SIM card & eSIM stays topped up throughout your Australian adventure is easy and convenient. Here are the main methods:

1. Online Top-up:

• Visit the Optus website or app.
• Log in to your account and select “Top up.”
• Enter the recharge voucher code or your preferred payment method (credit/debit card).
• Confirm the top-up amount and proceed.

2. Recharge Voucher:

• Visit any approved merchant, including Optus shops, convenience stores, or supermarkets, to purchase recharge vouchers.
• You may get vouchers in a variety of amounts, such as $10 and $20.
• To top up your Optus account, just scan the coupon, get the code, and input it online or in the Optus app.

3. In-store Top-up:

• Visit any Optus store and inform the representative you want to top up.
• Provide your phone number or SIM card and choose the desired top-up amount.
• Pay using cash, credit/debit card, or EFTPOS.

IX. FAQs about Optus in Australia

X. Conclusion

A physical Optus SIM card & eSIM is flexible and affordable for short-term or budget travellers. If convenience and quick activation are priorities, consider exploring independent eSIM resellers like Gigago once Optus launches its services.

Optus emerges as a strong contender for your Australian travels. Its outstanding download speeds, city and rural coverage, and dedication to innovation make it a trusted connection partner.