In the best sense of the word, Vietnam is a sensory paradise. It is a country that demands to be discovered, from the motorcycle-heavy streets of Hanoi to the beautiful limestone karsts of Ha Long Bay. However, exploration in 2026 necessitates connectivity.
A dependable internet connection is essential whether you need to utilize Google Translate to get the ideal bowl of Pho, reserve a eSIM Vietnam Grab bike to avoid rush hour traffic, or negotiate the convoluted roads of the Ha Giang Loop.
Put the Vietnam eSIM in here. It is the most intelligent, quickest, and practical way to connect to the internet, allowing you to bypass the hectic airport Cellphone kiosks and get started right away.
What is an eSIM in Vietnam?
An electronic counterpart of the conventional plastic SIM card is called an eSIM (embedded SIM). The majority of contemporary smartphones already come with it (iPhone XR and after, Samsung S20 and later, etc.).
To replace little bits of plastic, you just need to scan a QR code or press a button in an app rather than searching for a paperclip. A “digital profile” that you download to your phone automatically links yourself to a particular Vietnamese network.
Which of the “Big Three” Programs Offers the Best Coverage?
You are truly “roaming” on a regional Vietnamese network when you purchase a trip eSIM from a company like Airalo or Holafly. The key to a vacation without frustration is understanding which network your eSIM is using.
1. The King of Coverage, Viettel
The largest infrastructure in Vietnam is found at Viettel, which is owned by the military.
Ideal For: Adventure seekers. You need an eSIM connected to Viettel if you’re going to be trekking in Sapa, riding a motorcycle around the Ha Giang Loop, or touring the Phong Nha caverns.
2026 Update: Nearly 90% from the population is already covered by Viettel’s rapid 5G rollout.
2. Vinaphone: (The Urban Expert)
the second-biggest airline. It is quite dependable and owned by the state.
Ideal For: Beach bums and city dwellers. Major cities including Da Nang, Hanoi, and Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) have strong coverage.
3. A mobile phone
In tourist areas, coverage is decent, but in isolated provinces, it might be patchy.
The “Local Number” Conundrum
The majority of eSIMs used for overseas travel are data-only. They don’t include a local Vietnamese phone number (+84).
Is this important? No, for 95% of travelers.
Everyone in Thailand uses WhatsApp and Zalo for texting and making calls.
Grab: Your home mobile number can be used to create a Grab account. Instead of calling you, providers will message you via the app (data).
You must purchase a physical SIM card or a special tourist eSIM directly from a Viettel station at the airport if you absolutely demand a local number to make calls (passport registration required).
Vietnam eSIM Installation: The “Do-It-Before” Method
Set this up on your own Wi-Fi while you stay at home to prevent tension.
Purchase: Use an app like Airways or Nomad to purchase your plan.
Install: To install the “Cellular Plan” to your phone, follow the directions.
Label: Give the new line the name “Vietnam.”
Wait: Until you land, keep the telephone line toggled off.
Activate: As soon as your aircraft lands:
Activate the Vietnam line.
Change “Mobile Data” to a Vietnam line.
Important Step: Enable Data Roaming eSIM Vietnam
for the Viet line (this is frequently necessary for trip eSIMs to function).
Synopsis
You no longer have to worry about roaming fees or misplacing your primary SIM card. A Thailand eSIM is inexpensive (often less than $10 per week), simple to use, and necessary for today’s tourists.