Which Unlimited SIM Plan for Portugal? (Holafly Promo Code)
Introduction
Who hasn’t dreamed of escaping to the enchanting landscapes of this country rich in history and charm, from the picturesque villages of the Algarve to the legendary vineyards of the Douro, whether driving a rental car, a campervan like us, or even backpacking? Personally, Portugal is a love story for us, and every visit fills us with excitement.
But before you get carried away with excitement, have you thought (as we did) about your mobile connectivity?
Yes, here we tackle the important topic of the SIM card, essential for staying connected to the world, even when you’re wandering through charming streets or savoring a pastel de nata in a local café. In the land of great explorers and romantic poets, the cost of mobile internet connectivity can quickly become a major concern.
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How to Find the Perfect Unlimited SIM Card for Your Adventure in Portugal?
Before you get charmed by the beauty of the beaches or captivated by the traditional fado festivals, one crucial question arises: how do you stay connected in this enchanting country?
No worries, we’re here to guide you through the maze of mobile options, just as surely as a local guide would lead you through the steep streets of Lisbon.
- Choose your UK or US plan that covers you even in the most remote corners of Portugal (or not).
- Take the opportunity to buy a local SIM card, as varied as the flavors of a Portuguese tavern.
- Or, adopt eSIM technology, as modern as the tech innovations of Porto.
Each option has its own advantages and challenges, much like an epic quest in the mountains of the Alentejo. Let’s explore them all.
Solution 1: The UK or US Plan Option for Your Road Trip in Portugal
Who hasn’t been tempted to simply activate the international option on their usual plan with providers like AT&T, T-Mobile, Verizon, EE, Vodafone, or O2?
The main advantage of this method is its simplicity. No need to juggle with new SIM cards at every stage of your trip to Portugal. You can continue to call, post, and share as if you were still in the UK or US.
However, not everything is as idyllic as a stroll along the beach of Ilha de Tavira. Most of these plans have data limits abroad, or no data at all, and you might need an additional option.
If you exceed this limit, be prepared to receive a hefty bill that will make you regret not opting for a local SIM card. Additionally, network quality can be as unpredictable as an Atlantic breeze, varying significantly depending on your location and the operator.
UK and US Plans
To be honest, we decided to leave out certain providers because we haven’t had the opportunity to test their services. Our modem doesn’t accept cards from these providers.
AT&T
Price: $12 per day
Internet: Unlimited high-speed data, talk, and text in over 210 destinations
AT&T offers the International Day Pass, which allows you to use your phone abroad just like you do at home for $12 per day. This includes unlimited data, talk, and text, and the charge only applies for the days you use it. Spain is covered, along with over 210 other destinations. If you’re traveling with family, each additional line on the same account costs $6 per day. Furthermore, you’ll never pay more than 10 days’ worth of fees per billing cycle, which is great for longer trips.
For frequent travelers, this can be more convenient than getting local SIM cards, especially if you’re moving between multiple countries during your trip.
T-Mobile
Price: $5 per day
Internet: 512MB of high-speed data and unlimited calling
T-Mobile offers an International 1 Day Pass, which includes 512MB of high-speed data and unlimited calling for $5 per day. For longer stays, there’s the 5GB International Pass, valid for 10 days at $35, or the 15GB International Pass, which covers 30 days for $50. These options are available in over 215 countries, including Spain, and can be added to your existing plan via the T-Mobile app or website, making it a flexible solution for short or extended trips.
Verizon
Price: $10 per day
Internet: Unlimited high-speed data, talk, and text in over 210 destinations
Verizon’s TravelPass allows you to use your phone just like you would at home for $10 per day. This includes unlimited data, talk, and text in 210+ countries, including Spain. The plan provides 5GB of high-speed data each day, after which you get unlimited data at reduced 3G speeds for the rest of the 24-hour session. The daily fee only applies when you use your phone abroad, so you’re not charged for unused days. For Canada and Mexico, the cost drops to $5 per day. It’s easy to activate through the Verizon app or by texting “TRAVEL” to 4004.
EE
Price: £2.29 per day
Internet: Use your plan’s data, talk, and text allowances in 47 European destinations
EE offers a straightforward roaming option with a daily charge of £2.29, allowing you to use your UK data, minutes, and text allowances in 47 European destinations, including Spain. For those who travel frequently or for longer periods, you can opt for the Roam Abroad Pass, which costs £25 per month. This pass extends your allowances to the EU and five additional countries like the USA, Canada, and Australia. You can add the pass through the EE app or by texting “ROAMING PASS” to 150.
Vodafone
Price: £2.42 per day
Internet: Use your plan’s data, talk, and text allowances in 47 European destinations
Vodafone charges £2.42 per day for using your UK allowances in its European roaming zone, which includes Spain. If you’re on one of their Xtra plans, roaming in Europe is included at no extra cost. For those traveling further afield, such as to the USA or other international destinations, there’s a £6 daily charge. Additionally, Vodafone offers passes for 8 or 15 days, which can help reduce costs for longer stays.
O2
Price: £6 per day
Internet: Unlimited minutes, texts, and data in 63 destinations outside Europe
O2 offers the Travel Bolt On for £6 per day, which gives you unlimited data, calls, and texts in 63 destinations outside Europe, including the USA, Canada, Australia, and Mexico. This daily charge only applies for the days you use your phone. Additionally, if you have the O2 Travel Inclusive Zone Ultimate on an Ultimate Plan, you can roam in 75 destinations with no extra charges, but speeds are capped at 2Mbps. For other plans like Volt and Plus, roaming is included in 27 destinations outside Europe at no extra cost.
What Does 1 GB of Data Mean?
To give you an idea, here’s what 1 GB of data corresponds to when using your mobile in Portugal:
- 1 hour of music per day on Spotify for 20 days.
- 30 minutes of HD video (1080p quality).
- 10 minutes of 4K video.
- 4 hours of WhatsApp video calls, or watching videos on Instagram and TikTok.
If you want to avoid any surprises, we have created a tool for how calculate your data usage abroad? Feel free to try it out to see how quickly you consume your data!
Advantages:
Choosing a UK or US provider for your stay in Portugal offers various benefits. With EE, you can use your UK plan’s data, talk, and text allowances for just £2.47 per day, while Vodafone offers a similar service at £2.42 per day, both making it affordable and convenient for short trips. Among US providers, AT&T stands out with its International Day Pass at $12 per day, providing unlimited high-speed data, which is excellent for heavy data users. T-Mobile offers a more budget-friendly option at $5 per day, but with a 512MB high-speed data limit, suitable for moderate use. Verizon’s TravelPass, at $10 per day, offers unlimited data with a 2GB high-speed daily cap, balancing cost and data needs effectively.
Disadvantages:
Even though using your UK or US plan in Portugal is very convenient thanks to roaming agreements, there are a few drawbacks to keep in mind:
- Monitor your data usage: Be cautious of your data usage, especially with apps running in the background. They can consume your data allowance faster than you might enjoy a pastel de nata.
- Data limits: Depending on your provider, you might find your plan a bit restrictive. For example, T-Mobile’s 512MB high-speed limit might be tight for heavy data users, while AT&T’s unlimited high-speed data is more generous for extended stays.
- Internet connection: Even though it’s included, the connection can be spotty depending on your location. Not always ideal for an Instagram live from the top of a cliff!
Solution 2: Which Local SIM Card for Portugal?
The second option is to get a local SIM card. By choosing this solution, you avoid the hassle of roaming fees and benefit from local rates for Internet access.
Getting a local SIM card in Portugal is really simple. You can buy it in a café, a telecommunications shop, or directly at the airport. No need to be fluent in Portuguese, as 80% of people speak English! A smile should be enough.
Local Mobile Providers in Portugal
In Portugal, several operators compete in the market. The main ones are MEO, Vodafone, and NOS. There are also mobile virtual network operators (MVNOs) like NOWO that use the infrastructure of the major operators to provide their services. Be sure to compare the different offers, especially in terms of data prices, network coverage, and SIM card validity.
Once you’ve purchased your local SIM card, simply insert it into your phone and follow the activation instructions. And that’s it, you’re ready to explore the charming cities and beautiful beaches while staying connected like a local!
MEO
Prix : 25 EUR
MEO te propose un Tourist Welcome Pack qui inclut 20 GB de données, 1000 minutes d’appels locaux et 1000 SMS locaux, le tout valable pendant 15 jours pour 25 EUR. Ce pack touristique est idéal pour ceux qui prévoient un court séjour au Portugal et souhaitent rester connectés sans souci. Tu peux acheter ce forfait en ligne avant ton arrivée ou directement à l’aéroport ainsi que dans d’autres points de vente au Portugal.
Vodafone
Price: 25 EUR (i.e. $28 or £21)
Vodafone offers a tourist package including 10 GB of data, 500 minutes of calls, and 50 international minutes, all valid for 30 days for 25 EUR (i.e. $28 or £21). You can purchase this package upon your arrival in Portugal at Vodafone stores or order it online for pickup at the airport or your hotel.
NOS
Price: 10 EUR (i.e. $11 or £8)
NOS offers tourists a very convenient prepaid SIM card option. For 10 EUR (i.e. $11 or £8), you get 5 GB of data, 1000 minutes of calls, and 1000 SMS, all valid for 30 days.
Advantages:
When comparing the cost per GB, UK and US plans can sometimes be more economical if you consume a lot of data. For instance, EE’s plan at £2.47 per day gives you access to your existing data allowance. If you have a generous data plan in the UK, this can be very cost-effective. Similarly, AT&T’s International Day Pass offers unlimited high-speed data for $12 per day, which can be advantageous for heavy data users.
Disadvantages:
Language Barrier and Technical Complexities
When purchasing, setting up, or troubleshooting, you might find yourself lost among technical terms unless you’re proficient in English.
Device Compatibility
Firstly, ensure your smartphone or 4G modem is unlocked and compatible with local frequencies. Also, pay attention to the SIM card size, which may not be compatible with your phone.
Risks and Drawbacks
- Loss of French Number: By switching SIM cards, you temporarily lose your usual number, which can be inconvenient if you’re expecting important communications.
- Frequent SIM Changes: If your trip involves exploring different regions of Portugal, you might need to change SIM cards often, accumulating them like souvenirs in your bag.
- Loss of Familiarity: Adapting to a new number also means getting used to the policies of local operators, akin to learning the rules of a new traditional Portuguese game.
Solution 3: Which eSIM for Portugal?
Forget the hassle of traditional SIM cards; your third option for seamless connectivity in Portugal comes in the form of an eSIM, and Holafly is leading this change. This innovative service allows you to say goodbye to multiple SIM cards and expensive roaming fees.
Introduction to eSIM for Beginners
eSIM, or embedded SIM, is revolutionizing the telecommunications world. Imagine this: no more physical SIM card; it’s replaced by a virtual chip integrated directly into your smartphone, freeing up space for other features. It’s like having an invisible guide that takes care of your connectivity wherever you go in Portugal!
The Many Facets of eSIM
One of the great advantages of eSIM is the ability to add multiple network profiles on a single device. Depending on your phone model, you could manage up to eight different profiles. For example, if you have an iPhone, this allows you to switch between plans easily, without ever needing to change a physical SIM card.
This technology offers unprecedented flexibility and simplifies your management of mobile services, especially for frequent travelers or those who juggle different plans to optimize their network coverage and communication costs.
Advantages:
Borderless Connectivity: With Holafly, Portugal is at your fingertips. Whether you’re strolling through the streets of Porto or relaxing on the beaches of the Algarve, you’ll enjoy extensive network coverage.
Attractive Rates: Holafly proves to be an economical option, offering much more affordable rates than usual roaming fees. This allows you to save money while fully enjoying your stay.
Customized to Your Needs: Need connectivity for just a few days? No problem. Holafly allows you to customize your plan according to the duration and amount of data you need.
Instant Activation: Avoid long waits and tedious administrative tasks. With Holafly, a simple scan of a QR code on your phone and you’re ready to explore the country like a local.
Immediate Connection: Imagine arriving at Lisbon airport and being connected instantly, without any hassle of finding a local SIM card. With Holafly, this is a reality.
Exceptional Customer Support: In case of any issues, Holafly’s customer service is responsive and efficient, ready to assist you quickly and effectively with any questions or technical problems you may encounter.
Inconvénients :
Opting for an eSIM with Holafly can be more expensive in the long run compared to buying a local SIM card in Portugal. Holafly’s rates are often higher than those of local operators, which can become significant if you plan a long stay or frequent visits.
Holafly eSIMs also come with data caps depending on the plan chosen. If you use a lot of data or need a continuous connection, you might find these limits insufficient. It’s crucial to carefully examine the plans to see if a more unlimited option would better suit your needs.
Additionally, not all smartphones support eSIMs. Before choosing Holafly’s eSIM, make sure your device is compatible with this technology to avoid any disappointment.
Code Promo Forfait Holafly Portugal
Good news if you’re planning to visit Portugal: we have a special discount for you! Use a promo code for your Holafly eSIM card for Portugal. During your purchase, simply enter the promo code LAPLANETEDECARO, and enjoy an immediate 5% discount. This is a great opportunity to stay connected without breaking the bank during your stay.
Conclusion
So, which is the best unlimited SIM card for a trip to Portugal or a road trip through its historic landscapes and vibrant cities? Finding the right answer isn’t as straightforward as one might think, much like choosing between different variations of pastéis de nata. Each connectivity option comes with its advantages and disadvantages, and what works perfectly for one type of traveler might not be ideal for another.
