Learn ins and outs about how to use cell phone in France to stay connected effectively while traveling. Also find out the best way to use your phone for good value.
A phone is an essential device when traveling. However, if your phone is not connected, it is likely that basic needs when traveling such as translation or maps will not be available.
So how can I use cell phone in France? Below we will provide you with basic information to optimize your phone use when traveling.
In this article
Before diving into the main topic, you should understand some characteristics of the telephone network in France:
Phone Compatibility:
Frequencies:
Network Standards:
Roaming:
Wi-Fi Availability:
Yes, absolutely. Below, you’ll find a handy table that outlines the frequency bands used for 5G, 4G, 3G, and 2G networks by 4 major mobile network operators in France
Note: Remember, these details may change over time. Therefore, it's always a good idea to double-check with the official sources or the mobile network operators themselves for the most up-to-date information.
| Mobile Network | 5G Frequency Bands | 4G Frequency Bands | 3G Frequency Bands | 2G Frequency Bands |
| Orange | n78 (3500 MHz)n28 (700 MHz) | B3 (1800 MHz)B7 (2600 MHz)B20 (800 MHz) | B1 (2100 MHz)B8 (900 MHz) | 900 MHz1800 MHz |
| SFR | n78 (3500 MHz)n28 (700 MHz) | B3 (1800 MHz)B7 (2600 MHz)B20 (800 MHz) | B1 (2100 MHz)B8 (900 MHz) | 900 MHz1800 MHz |
| Bouygues Telecom | n78 (3500 MHz)n28 (700 MHz) | B3 (1800 MHz)B7 (2600 MHz)B20 (800 MHz) | B1 (2100 MHz)B8 (900 MHz) | 900 MHz1800 MHz |
| Free Mobile | n78 (3500 MHz)n28 (700 MHz) | B3 (1800 MHz)B7 (2600 MHz)B20 (800 MHz) | B1 (2100 MHz)B8 (900 MHz) | 900 MHz1800 MHz |
Yes, you will need an international plan in France. But why? Let’s see the explanation below:
Although, you absolutely can use free Wi-Fi in France, relying solely on it has some disadvantages:
To avoid these limitations and ensure reliable connectivity, it is recommended to have an international plan for your mobile phone while in France:
Tip: Contact your mobile service provider before your trip to inquire about international plans that offer reasonable rates for data, calls, and messages while in France. This will help you avoid excessive roaming charges and ensure uninterrupted connectivity.
If you are still wondering what options you have to connect to France’s mobile network, this section will provide an overview of 3 main options to consider. These include eSIM, SIM card, and pocket Wi-Fi.
eSIM, short for embedded SIM or electronic SIM, is a digital SIM card that is built into your device, such as a smartphone, tablet, or smartwatch.
Suitable for: If you have a device that supports eSIM technology, using an eSIM will be the bestt option for easy and convenient connectivity.
Where to buy eSIM for France: You can buy
Pros:
Cons:
An international SIM card for France is a SIM card specifically designed for travelers who are visiting France from another country. It allows you to stay connected to a mobile network while in France, providing voice, text, and data services.
Suitable for: Travelers visiting France who prefer a physical SIM card solution for their international connectivity needs.
Where to buy International SIM cards for France: International SIM cards for France can be purchased from various sources such as online retailers, mobile network providers, airport kiosks, or authorized resellers.
Pros:
Cons:
Advice: Check with the SIM card provider or refer to your device's specifications for compatibility information.
Pocket Wi-Fi, also known as a portable Wi-Fi hotspot, is a small device that allows you to create a Wi-Fi network and connect multiple devices to the internet simultaneously.
Suitable for: Travelers visiting France who want to connect multiple devices simultaneously.
Where to rent Pocket Wi-Fi for France: Pocket Wi-Fi devices can be rented from various sources such as online travel service providers, airport kiosks, or local telecommunication companies in France.
Pros:
Cons:
Advice: You should use eSIM as it’s the best choice for tourists because it offers many packages with affordable prices. Additionally, you can buy and activate it easily and instantly
If you’re wondering if you can use your local network there, the answer is most likely yes. However, there are a few important things to consider, such as high roaming charges and potential costs.
In general, your local network should have coverage in France, meaning you can make calls, send texts, and use data services. It’s convenient because you can keep your existing SIM card and phone number while traveling. However, it’s crucial to be aware that using your local network abroad can be expensive due to roaming charges.
Roaming charges are the fees you’ll incur for using your local network in a foreign country like France. These charges can add up quickly and make your phone bill much higher than usual. They apply to both incoming and outgoing calls, texts, and data usage.
If you don’t control your usage, the price paid at the end of your trip will be very expensive.
eSIM is a type of technology SIM that can be owned immediately by scanning a qr code. This is a new generation SIM card with outstanding features that overcomes the disadvantages of other forms of communication:
For France, Gigago offers multiple data plan options, starting from 1 GB for 3 days with $3.00 . What is great about Gigago’s France eSIM is that its plans’ costs are diversifying, varying between $3.00 – $95.90 . Thus, it does not matter how Internet users you are and how long your trip is in France, there is always an option for you with Gigago.
There are also some added benefits to help customers have the best experience:
Some additional tips below can help you to have a smoothier trip:
Tip: Use a virtual private network (VPN) for added security and encryption.
To use a cell phone in France, you need to know some basic information about coverage, network quality or reliable SIM providers here. Besides, you should consider buying a local SIM so you can use the local network and phone number at the best price and extremely convenient.
Please consider carefully your personal requirements to choose the most suitable method. Have a good time!
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