Which Vietnam eSIM is best? A clear look at networks, days, and Ha Long Bay signal

Vietnam eSIM choices abound

Our Vietnam destination page currently features over 180 eSIM plans, ranging from 1 day to 30 days, with additional options for 60-day and 365-day long-term cards. The variety of plans for the same destination is due to different suppliers operating on different networks and using different calculation methods.

Vietnam plans come in two types: daily capped (daily reset) and total data (one pool for the entire trip), with both options available. There is no 'unlimited usage' category — so you don't need to worry about speed reduction thresholds.

Real-time plan numbers and prices are available on the Vietnam destination page, allowing you to instantly see the cheapest plan for each 'calculation method × number of days' combination without having to sift through them individually.

Choosing Among Vietnam’s Three Major Networks

Vietnam’s main network providers are Viettel, Vinaphone, and Mobifone. Cities like Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and Da Nang have stable networks, with 5G gradually becoming commercially available from 2024.

Our single-country Vietnam card operates on the networks of Vinaphone, Vietnam Mobile, and Viettel, with each plan clearly indicating which network it uses.

For city itineraries, the choice of network doesn’t make much difference. However, in areas like Ha Long Bay and Sa Pa, as well as on海上 routes, signals tend to weaken—this is due to the terrain, not because one network is particularly superior, so don’t expect switching networks to solve the issue. It’s more practical to download offline maps before heading out to sea or into the mountains.

Daily Quota or Total Data?

• If your daily itinerary is similar, and you’re constantly using navigation and searching for restaurants → choose a daily quota. If you exceed the limit, it resets the next morning, so you won’t run out unexpectedly.
• If your usage is concentrated in the first few days (e.g., heavily using maps upon arrival, then mainly dining and sightseeing) → choose a total data plan. This allows you to allocate more data to the beginning of your trip.
• If you’re traveling from Hanoi → Da Nang → Ho Chi Minh City → choose a plan with more days and a larger total data allowance to avoid running out.

Matching Number of Days to Your Itinerary

• The number of days is counted from the first time you connect to a Vietnamese network, not from the purchase date—so buying in advance won’t be a waste.
• Add a buffer day: with red-eye flights, delays, and itinerary changes, the actual number of days used is often more than you expect.
• If you’re crossing into neighboring countries, don’t buy a single-country card: if you’re heading to Cambodia, Laos, or Thailand, look directly at Southeast Asia multi-country plans. One card will cover your entire trip, so you won’t need to change cards upon arrival.

How much data do I need?

• Navigation + communication + reviews → About 1GB daily is usually enough.
• Posting stories and sharing videos daily → 2GB or more per day.
• Unreliable hotel Wi-Fi, want a safety net → Choose a larger plan or a daily plan to spread out usage.
• Not sure? Use our data usage calculator to estimate based on your daily habits.

eSIM or physical SIM card?

If your phone supports eSIM (dial `*#06#` to see the EID), choose eSIM: After payment, a QR code is emailed instantly, ready to use when you turn on roaming after landing, no waiting for delivery or queuing at the airport.

Physical SIM cards are also available in Vietnam, suitable if your phone doesn't support eSIM or if you want to use an old phone for family members. Free local shipping in Hong Kong, arrives in 1–3 working days.

Not sure if your phone supports it? Check our device compatibility list or WhatsApp us directly.