A Vietnamese SIM card is one of the first things worth buying after landing. With local data, you can use Grab from the airport, navigate with Google Maps, and communicate via translation apps. The process of buying and activating a SIM at Tan Son Nhat Airport takes about 10 minutes and costs around 90,000–150,000 VND.

The main networks

Viettel — the largest network in Vietnam with the most comprehensive coverage outside the main cities. Best if your trip extends beyond Ho Chi Minh City. Data packages: 90,000–120,000 VND for 30 days with 20–30GB data.

Vinaphone — strong urban coverage and competitive data packages. 90,000 VND for 30 days with 30GB. Comparable to Viettel for city use.

Vietnamobile — cheaper packages but weaker coverage outside urban centres. 50,000–70,000 VND for 7–10 days. Good for a short city-only trip.

Where to buy

At the airport: All three networks have counters in the arrivals hall at Tan Son Nhat. Staff speak enough English to handle the transaction. You’ll need your passport. This is the most convenient option.

In the city: Network branded shops are everywhere throughout Districts 1, 3, and 5. The official network shops are worth the extra 5 minutes of walking over street vendors for a smoother activation process.

eSIM option

If your phone supports eSIM, providers like Airalo, Holafly, and Nomad offer Vietnam eSIM packages that can be activated before you land. Prices for 30-day Vietnam data eSIMs range from $8–15 USD. The advantage is activation from home; the disadvantage is no local Vietnamese phone number, which some booking platforms require.

What you’ll need data for

The essential apps for Saigon travel all require data: Grab (transport), Google Maps (navigation), Google Translate (restaurant menus, street signs), and accommodation apps. A 20–30GB monthly package is more than enough for moderate use.