Buying a SIM card is crucial for tourists traveling to the United Kingdom. You can buy SIM cards or download an eSIM plan from Three – one of the largest network carriers in the UK. With extensive coverage and fast data speed, Three let visitors access a secure and easy Internet connection. This guide will go over everything you need to know about Three SIM cards and eSIM: the best option, how to get and activate, and the finest alternatives.
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Three is one of the largest mobile network providers in the UK. Several key facts about Three UK you may need to know include:
Let us look at the network coverage and data speed of Three in the UK:
In summary, Three UK has cell towers around the country so most areas get coverage. Tourists can use high-speed 4G or even 5G for fast Internet on their phones in most cities and towns.
Visitors to the UK can connect to the Three’s networks via three key connectivity options:
| Option | Pros | Cons |
| Three SIM cards | – A wide selection of SIM card options to choose – Competitive prices for cellular services – Easy purchase (upon arrival in the city stores or online before departure) | – Unlocked phone needed |
| Pocket Wifi | – Portable – Internet sharing between mobile devices like phones, tablets, laptops | – Limited broadcast range – Not sure whether it is connected to Three’s network or not – Have to return the pocket Wifi after trip – High rental rates |
| Roaming | – Familiar home carrier, phone number, and plan – No SIM swap | – Costly charges – Network coverage depends on the contract between your domestic provider and Three |
► Recommendation:
We can see that getting Three SIM cards is an excellent choice. It is more convenient than roaming with your regular SIM or renting a pocket Wifi – and better value for money too.
Here are some of the most preferred Three SIM cards for tourists visiting the UK and costs accordingly.
| Price | Benefits | |
| Auto-renew plans | £10 GBP – $12.6 USD | 12GB & unlimited minutes and texts |
| £15 GBP – $19 USD | 40GB & unlimited minutes and texts | |
| £20 GBP – $25 USD | 80GB & unlimited minutes & texts | |
| £35 GBP – $44 USD | Unlimited data & minutes & texts | |
| One-time plans | £10 GBP – $12.6 USD | 10GB & unlimited minutes and texts |
| £15 GBP – $19 USD | 30GB & unlimited minutes and texts | |
| £20 GBP – $25 USD | 60GB & unlimited minutes & texts | |
| £35 GBP – $44 USD | Unlimited data & minutes & texts |
Note: If you want to buy Three SIM cards, it is recommended to check Three’s official website for the most up-to-date info.
Sure. Three offers eSIM (virtual SIM) that is built into a mobile device like smartphones, tablets, or watches without needing to insert a physical SIM in the UK. So why select an eSIM for the UK?
You have two options to buy the UK eSIM:
► Recommendation:
It is much easier for visitors to the UK to have an eSIM from a third-party provider rather than from Three directly. But it can be hard to pick which reseller to choose. A good option might be getting an eSIM from a reputable provider like Gigago.
Gigago offers a wide selection of UK eSIM plans for tourists. The cheapest pack costs only $3.50 and provides 1GB of data over 3 days. Other plan options vary between $3.50 – $125.98 , depending on the trip duration and data amount. Just choose the UK eSIM option that best suits your trip needs and budget.
Pro Tip: Before downloading a UK eSIM plan, make sure that your smartphone is compatible with eSIM. Check out the list of eSIM-compatible mobile devices.
Now that you know the Three SIM card and eSIM options. Now is the time to find out where to get Three SIMs.
1.1. Upon arrival at the UK airports
Three SIM cards are sold at:
1.2. Three shops & authorized dealers
Three has a wide range of shops located in busy shopping centers, street stores, and malls. Besides, thousands of other shops also sell Three phones and plans. You can commute to the main cities and large towns in London, Manchester,… to buy Three SIM cards. These stores offer Three SIM cards at more budget-friendly rates.
Here are the ways to buy Three eSIM:
Pro Tips:
It is straightforward to activate and use Three SIM cards and eSIM for your UK trip. Here is how:
To activate Three SIM card:
To activate Three eSIM:
In addition toThree SIM cards, visitors can get SIM cards from other operators such as EE, O2, vodafone for their trip to the UK.
Yes, tourists from the US can purchase Three SIM cards and eSIM online before their trip or upon arrival.
Yes, Three SIM cards and eSIM include access to Three’s high speed 4G and 5G networks, providing fast data speeds in many major cities and towns across the UK.
In conclusion, Three SIM cards and eSIM deliver a hassle-free and affordable way for tourists to get the Internet while traveling in the UK. Their extensive 4G/5G network lets tourists use data, talk, and text no matter where they go. If you prioritize flexibility and best value option, downloading a UK eSIM plan from Gigago. Just pick the plan that best suits your preferences, length of stay, and budget.
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