Buying a SIM Card in Helsinki for Travelers 2024: Guide from Locals

Staying connected and using your phone in Helsinki, Finland’s capital and biggest city may be difficult. Local SIM cards in Helsinki are among the finest and cheapest methods to achieve it. This lets you make calls, and SMS avoid roaming expenses using fast internet. How to buy SIM card in Helsinki? Find the greatest bargains and offers where? Procedures and requirements? This essay answers all these questions and more.

I. Why Buy SIM card in Helsinki?

In Helsinki, buying a convenient SIM card might be your lifesaver while traveling, keeping you connected and making navigation simple. Even if there are alternatives, let’s examine why buy SIM card in Helsinki is unique:

• Free Wi-Fi: Sure, it’s readily available in some cafes and public areas, but relying solely on it limits your freedom. Imagine being lost with a dead battery and no Wi-Fi in sight!
• Roaming: Using your home network abroad can be convenient, but be prepared for hefty charges. 
• Pocket Wi-Fi: Renting a portable hotspot offers internet access, but it’s an extra gadget to carry and often comes with data limitations.

With a SIM card, you can:

• Stay connected: Make calls, send texts, and access the internet without solely relying on Wi-Fi hotspots.
• Navigate like a pro: Download offline maps and navigation apps for worry-free exploration.
• Stay informed: Access real-time updates and easily connect with loved ones back home.

Think of a SIM card as your pocket-sized internet buddy in Helsinki, keeping you connected and informed throughout your adventure.

II. Which mobile internet carrier is the best in Helsinki?

Finland has three leading mobile operators: Telia, DNA, and Elisa, providing extensive networks and coverage, along with diverse plans and offers. If you’re looking to buy SIM card in Helsinki, here is a brief overview of each operator and what they offer:

Operator	Coverage	Speed	Reliability	Popularity	Plan for Tourists
Telia	99%	300 Mbps	High	40%	Telia Prepaid (5.9 – 24.9 euros)
DNA	98%	1 Gbps	High	25%	DNA Prepaid (4.9 – 24.9 euros)
Elisa	97%	100 Mbps	High	20%	Elisa Prepaid (4.9 – 19.9 euros)

As you can see, the coverage and speed of the networks are similar, as Helsinki is a well-developed city. The main difference is in the plan details and customer support. Therefore, we recommend choosing the best operator that suits your needs and budget. 

Conclusion: We recommend Telia, Finland’s most prominent and oldest provider, with the most significant loyalty program, network coverage, and 4G speed. Online sim card retailer Gigago collaborates with Telia to deliver sim cards to your door.

III. Best Helsinki SIM Card Plans and Price

The prices and plans when buy SIM card in Helsinki depend on the operator, the type of plan, and the amount of data, voice, and text you need. Here are some examples of the prices and plans of sim cards in Helsinki from each operator:

• DNA: Their DNA Rajaton Prepaid plan offers a whopping 10GB of data for 30 days and unlimited calls and texts within Finland, all for $30. Perfect for heavy data users!
• Elisa (Saunalahti): The Saunalahti Prepaid Plus plan provides 15GB of data valid for 28 days, 500 minutes, and 500 texts within Finland, priced at $26—a good balance for moderate data users.
• Telia: Their Telia Prepaid Data plan offers 8GB of data valid for 30 days, with limited calls and texts within Finland, at $28. It is ideal for lighter-data users who prioritize cost savings.

IV. Where to Buy SIM Card in Helsinki?

There are the best places to buy SIM cards in Helsinki based on your preferences and level of ease. Helsinki’s top locations for SIM card purchases include the following:

1. Buy a SIM card at Helsinki airport 

A few stores and kiosks provide SIM cards from R-kioski, WHSmith, and Alepa, among other carriers. Additionally, SIM card selling devices from DNA and Telia are available. Additionally, you may purchase a SIM card online and pick it up at the airport using this article provided.

What to prepare:

• Passport: Required for identification during purchase.
• Payment method: Credit cards, debit cards, or cash (Euros) are commonly accepted.

Pros:

• Quick and easy: Get your SIM card upon arrival, eliminating the need to search later.
• Convenient location: No need to venture far from baggage claim.

List of locations where you can find SIM stores/Shops at the airport:

Location 1: Non-Schengen area, Terminal 1, Elisa and Telia

Location 2: Arrivals Hall, Terminal 2, DNA, Elisa, Telia

2. Buy a SIM card in Helsinki center

While the airport offers convenience, venturing into Helsinki’s vibrant center opens up additional options:

Advantages:

• More comprehensive selection: Explore different operators and plans at official and convenience stores.
• Potential cost savings: You might find slightly better deals than the airport.

Disadvantages:

• Language barrier: Navigating stores and communication might be more challenging than at the airport.
• Time commitment: Finding a store and buying a SIM card takes time you might not have upon arrival.

Here’s where you can find SIM cards in the city:

• Official stores of mobile network carriers: DNA, Elisa (Saunalahti), and Telia.
• Convenience stores: R-Kioski, Alepa, and K-Market.
• Online: Limited options might be available from eSIM providers like Gigago.

► Our recommendation: Grab a SIM card at the airport for instant access. Consider buying an eSIM online before departure if your phone supports eSIM technology (avoiding passport presentation at physical stores) for a more comprehensive selection and potential cost savings.

V. Finland eSIM card for Helsinki – Alternative to SIM Card for travelers

If your phone has eSIM superpowers, why not use them? eSIM offers:

• Remote purchase: Buy online from anywhere before your trip.
• Instant activation: No need to visit a store; activate upon arrival.

Here’s where to find eSIM for Helsinki:

• Elisa (Saunalahti): Check their website for tourist eSIM options.
• Gigago: For Finland, Gigago offers multiple data plan options, starting from 1 GB for 3 days with $3.50 . What is excellent about Gigago’s Finland eSIM is that its plans’ costs are diversifying, varying between $3.50 – $125.98 . Thus, it does not matter how many Internet users you are and how long your trip is in Finland. There is always an option for you with Gigago.

VI. What to Prepare to buy SIM card in Helsinki

Buy SIM card in Helsinki is a breeze! Here’s what you’ll need to have handy:

Required Documentation:

• Your passport: This is the standard identification and proof of age required by most stores when purchasing a SIM card.

Optional but helpful:

• Unlocked phone: Ensure your phone is unlocked to work with different SIM cards. (Check with your phone carrier if unsure)
• Cash or preferred payment method: While most stores accept cards, having money as a backup is always a good idea.
• A basic understanding of Finnish: Knowing a few key phrases like “data,” “calls,” and “texts” can ease communication, especially if you encounter language barriers.

That’s all! With these simple preparations, you’ll be ready to grab your perfect SIM card and stay connected throughout your Finnish adventure.

VII. Extra Tips when buying SIM card in Helsinki

• Compare plans carefully: Consider your data needs, validity period, and call/text preferences before choosing a plan.
• Top-up voucher? Great idea!: Purchase a top-up voucher for adding extra data or credit when needed, avoiding the hassle of finding a store later.
• Offline maps and apps: Download maps and essential apps like translation tools beforehand to minimize data usage upon arrival.
• Ask for assistance: Don’t hesitate to ask the store staff for help if you need clarification on any aspect of the purchase process. Remember, a friendly smile goes a long way!

VIII. FAQs

IX. Conclusion

So there you have it! With this comprehensive guide, navigating the world of Helsinki SIM cards becomes a breeze. Remember, whether you choose the convenience of the airport or the broader selection of the city center when you buy SIM card in Helsinki, prioritize a plan that suits your data needs and travel style.

Don’t hesitate to compare plans, ask for help, and download essentials offline beforehand. With the correct SIM card, your Finnish adventure will be filled with connection and unforgettable experiences.