How you can use a travel eSIM to stay connected in Vietnam and Singapore

Exploring Vietnam and Singapore on your next trip to Southeast Asia? Staying connected is essential for navigation, communication, and accessing vital travel information. Fortunately, the introduction of eSIM technology has made it easier than ever to stay online without the hassle of physical SIM cards.

What is an eSIM?

An eSIM (embedded SIM) is a digital SIM card that is embedded in the hardware of your device. It allows you to activate a mobile network plan without having to use a physical SIM card.

Traditionally, travelers would typically stay connected through getting a data roaming package with their home operator, or they would get a physical travel SIM card or local SIM card upon arrival. Data roaming packages are convenient, but expensive; and physical SIM cards are typically much more affordable, but it could be fairly troublesome.

Travel eSIMs allow travelers to enjoy the benefits of both roaming and physical SIM cards, allowing users to stay connected at relatively low prices while doing away with the hassle of having to get a physical SIM card.

Enjoy greater flexibility with travel eSIMs. Choose between multiple single-country plans or a regional plan

If you will be visiting Vietnam and Singapore on a single trip, you might possibly be looking for a easy solution to stay connected as you travel between both countries.

Travel eSIMs offer the flexibility for you to stay connected and switch between networks as you cross borders. Whether you decide to get individual plans for Vietnam and Singapore, or whether you decide to get a regional plan that provides coverage in both countries, travel eSIMs make It easy for you to stay connected.

The difference between both options is simply the fact that with a regional plan that provides coverage in both countries, you do not need to switch between eSIMs as you cross borders. Getting individual plans for both countries would require you to toggle your device settings so that the correct eSIM is being used depending on the country you are in — but it’s really just a few taps on your device, which probably isn’t too much of a trouble.

Another advantage of getting a regional plan over multiple single country plans is that the total cost is likely to be cheaper. Since your data package will be shared across both countries, you are also able to more efficiently use your data allowance and minimise data wastage.

How to Use an eSIM in Vietnam and Singapore

1. Check if Your Device is Compatible

Before purchasing an eSIM plan for Vietnam or Singapore, ensure that your smartphone supports eSIM technology. While most modern smartphones today come with eSIM-compatibility, it is important to note that not all devices are eSIM-compatible.

You should also double check that your device is not carrier-locked. Carrier-locked devices essentially means that your device will not be able to connect to a different network from your home carrier.

To check if your phone supports eSIM, the easiest way is to go to your device settings and look out for whether there is the option for you to “Add an eSIM”.

2. Purchase an eSIM Plan

Several mobile carriers and service providers in Vietnam and Singapore offer eSIM services to tourists. You can purchase an eSIM plan online before your trip or upon arrival at the airport.

If you choose to purchase eSIMs from local telcos, here are some local telcos that offer eSIM plans for tourists:

• Vietnam: Mobifone, Viettel, Vinaphone
• Singapore: Singtel, Starhub, M1

However, it is important to note that getting an eSIM from a local telco often requires you to provide identity documents and verifications.

If you will be picking up an eSIM at the airport in Vietnam, it could also be worth noting that not all kiosks will offer eSIM options; and that most of the kiosks at the airports are resellers instead of the actual telcos and there could be possible issues of reliability.

An alternative will be to get an eSIM from providers of travel eSIMs instead. There are many travel eSIM providers such as Nomad that offer travel eSIMs for Vietnam and Singapore. With travel eSIMs, you can purchase your eSIMs even before you arrive at your destination, and you typically will not need to provide proof of identity.

However, most travel eSIMs are data only, meaning you will not have a local number, but most travelers will likely not require a local number while traveling.

3. Install Your eSIM

Once you’ve purchased your eSIM plan, the provider will send you a QR code or activation link via email. To install your eSIM, simply select the activation link or scan the QR code. You will need a stable internet connection to install your eSIM.

Installing your eSIM simply adds the eSIM profile to your device. In most cases, this does not necessarily mean your eSIM is activated, and activation will be done when you arrive at your destination and your eSIM connects to the local network. Check your providers’ instructions for more information on how to install and activate your eSIM.

Stay connected with a Nomad APAC travel eSIM for Singapore and Vietnam

Planning a trip to Singapore and Vietnam? Stay connected on your next trip with a single APAC travel eSIM, which provides coverage in both Singapore and Vietnam. Nomad offers data plans of various sizes so you can find a perfect one for your trip.

Simply head to the Nomad web store or mobile app, find a plan that is suitable for your data usage habits and trip length, and complete the purchase! You will receive your eSIM installation kit in a matter of minutes, and you can add it to your device in just a few taps on your phone. And in the event that you run out of data, you can easily buy an add-on from the Nomad app or web store and continue to stay connected hassle free!

Remember, a stable internet connection is required for the installation of your eSIM, so it is advisable to do it before you fly!