If you are a Verizon customer, one big question probably comes to mind: “Should I just use Verizon’s $12/day Travel Pass, or try a local Vietnam eSIM?”
At first glance, Verizon roaming with International Travel Pass sounds convenient — no SIM change, no setup hassle.
But at $12 per day, is it really the best way to get data, or is a Vietnam eSIM the better option for your budget and your signal? Let’s break it down in simple terms so you can make the best choice for your trip to Vietnam.
In this article
The Verizon International Travel Pass lets you use your U.S. plan abroad for a flat fee of $12 per day (in over 210 countries and destinations (including Vietnam). For Canada and Mexico, the fee is $6 per day.
Once you land in Vietnam, you can call, text, and use data just like at home — your Verizon plan’s allowances apply.
Each 24-hour TravelPass session starts automatically the moment you make or receive a call, send a text, or use mobile data. You’ll only be billed for days you actively use your phone abroad.
Note that Verizon roaming is not a one-size-fits-all service; it varies between plans.
Pros:
Cons:
An eSIM (embedded SIM) is a digital SIM that you install on your smartphone — no physical card required. It connects your phone directly to Vietnam’s local mobile networks, like Viettel, Vinaphone, or Mobifone, giving you fast, reliable data while saving you money.
Pros:
Cons:
Let’s see how these two options are different:
| Feature | Verizon Travel Pass | Gigago Vietnam eSIM |
| Cost | $12 per day (approx. $84/week) | From $5.9–$19.9 total for 7–30 days |
| Activation | Automatic upon arrival | Simple 2-minute QR scan |
| Network Speed in Vietnam | Roaming (higher lag/latency) | Direct access to top local carriers (4G/5G) |
| Data Limit | 5GB high-speed daily, then throttled at 3G speed | Choose exact data (3GB, 5GB, 10GB, etc.) |
| Convenience | No setup needed | 2-minute online setup |
| Compatibility | Works on any phone with SIM | Requires unlocked, eSIM-compatible phones |
In short, it is cheaper, faster, and easier to manage.
There are still a few cases where Verizon’s Travel Pass makes sense:
You don’t have to choose one or the other. If your phone supports dual SIM (physical SIM + eSIM), you can actually use both:
This way, you stay reachable on your US number while enjoying cheap, local high-speed data.
► Consider this: Gigago also has another eSIM for Vietnam offered by official MobiFone carrier. It comes with free calling minutes and SMS.
Not really. It’s convenient but costly — great for a 1–2 day trip, not for longer stays.
Yes! Keep your Verizon SIM active for calls/SMS, and use eSIM for data.
Plans start at around $5, depending on your data amount and length of stay.
No. Everything is done online. You’ll receive your QR code by email and can activate instantly.
You can buy additional Gigago eSIM for Vietnam anytime online.
If you’re traveling to Vietnam, Verizon’s $12/day International Travel Pass might be quick and easy — but it’s also expensive and offers slower speeds.
A Vietnam eSIM, like the ones from Gigago, provides the same convenience at a fraction of the cost. It’s perfect for tourists, digital nomads, and anyone who wants to stay connected without breaking the bank.
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