What is an eSIM and how does it work in Iceland?
An eSIM (embedded SIM) is a digital version of a physical SIM card, allowing you to connect to a mobile network without the need for a physical chip. Simply download an eSIM profile from a provider like Ubigi or eSIM4Travel, scan a QR code, and activate your plan within minutes.
In Iceland, eSIMs work on the country’s main mobile networks (Siminn and Vodafone), offering fast 4G and 5G coverage across Reykjavik, the Ring Road, and even the more remote areas. Stay connected in Reykjavik, Akureyri, or while exploring Iceland’s stunning landscapes.
Since eSIMs are built directly into modern smartphones, you can easily switch between providers, manage your data usage in real-time, and avoid roaming fees, no need for a physical SIM card.
What’s better for Iceland: an eSIM or a local SIM card?
For most travelers, an eSIM is a better choice than buying a local SIM card in Iceland. It’s quicker to set up, doesn’t require visiting a store, and eliminates the need for local ID or registration.
With an eSIM, you can download and activate your plan before departure, ensuring instant connectivity when you arrive, making it perfect for remote work, short trips, or late-night arrivals. Local SIM cards, however, often require in-person verification and can be more expensive if you only need data for a few days.
Why travelers prefer eSIMs in Iceland:
✅ Instant activation through QR code or app
✅ Access to 4G and 5G networks (Siminn and Vodafone)
✅ No need for ID or passport registration
✅ Easy top-ups and plan management
✅ Works across Iceland’s major cities and remote locations
In short, an eSIM offers more flexibility and convenience, while local SIMs may only be necessary for long-term stays requiring a local phone number.
What is the best eSIM for Iceland: Ubigi vs eSIM4Travel
Both Ubigi and eSIM4Travel provide reliable 5G coverage on Siminn and Vodafone, making them excellent choices for staying connected across Iceland. The main difference lies in data size and flexibility: Ubigi is great for long stays and heavy data usage, while eSIM4Travel is ideal for short trips and lighter browsing needs.
Ubigi: Best for larger data plans and long stays
Ubigi is a top choice for digital nomads and travelers who need strong coverage and flexible data options. With 5G access on Siminn and Vodafone, you’ll enjoy consistent speeds in urban areas like Reykjavik and rural destinations along the Ring Road.
Why Ubigi works well in Iceland:
- Wide range of plans, starting from 3 GB to 50 GB
- Strong 5G coverage on Siminn and Vodafone
- Ideal for remote work, video calls, and streaming
- Fast setup and activation before arrival
- Real-time data management in the Ubigi app
eSIM4Travel: Best for short trips and light data use
eSIM4Travel is great for travelers visiting Iceland for a short time or who need a budget-friendly, flexible plan. With multi-network coverage on Nova and Vodafone, it ensures reliable service across cities and remote spots like the Golden Circle and South Coast.
Why eSIM4Travel works well in Iceland:
- Affordable plans starting from 1 GB
- 5G/4G multi-network coverage on Nova and Vodafone
- Simple setup and activation before departure
- Full control with prepaid top-ups
- No registration or ID required
Both providers offer excellent coverage across Iceland, from Reykjavik to Akureyri and even remote areas like the Westfjords. If you want to compare other providers, see all available options in our Iceland eSIM provider directory.
How to choose the right eSIM for your Iceland trip
The best eSIM for Iceland depends on your travel style, trip duration, and data needs. Iceland offers great 4G and 5G coverage in urban areas and major tourist spots, but your ideal plan will depend on how you plan to use your data and where you’ll be traveling.
Here’s what to consider before buying an eSIM for Iceland:
- Trip length: Short visits or weekend getaways usually need smaller data plans, while longer stays or remote work trips benefit from larger or unlimited plans.
- Data usage: If you’re mostly using maps, messaging apps, and email, 3–5 GB should suffice. For remote work, video calls, or streaming, you might need 10 GB or more.
- Coverage area: Make sure your eSIM provides access to Iceland’s main networks, Siminn and Vodafone, which offer reliable coverage in Reykjavik, along the Ring Road, and in more remote areas like the Westfjords.
- Device compatibility: Most modern iPhones, Google Pixels, and Samsung devices support eSIMs, but always double-check in your phone’s mobile settings before purchasing.
- Flexibility: Look for plans that allow you to top up as needed, especially if you plan to travel around Iceland or beyond, as well as plans that offer flexibility in case your needs change.
By matching your eSIM to your travel habits, you’ll stay connected across Iceland’s major cities, picturesque landscapes, and remote areas, without needing a physical SIM card or Wi-Fi.
How to set up an eSIM in Iceland
Setting up an eSIM in Iceland is easy and convenient. You can purchase and install it before your trip, ensuring that your data works as soon as you arrive.
Follow these steps to activate your eSIM:
- Check compatibility: Ensure your phone supports eSIM. You can check this in your mobile network settings.
- Choose a plan: Select a data plan that fits your trip length and data needs. Consider how much data you’ll need for browsing, maps, and streaming.
- Buy online: Purchase your eSIM directly from the provider’s website or app, using any available discount codes.
- Scan the QR code: After purchasing, you’ll receive a QR code. Scan it using your phone’s camera to install the eSIM profile.
- Activate your plan: Once you arrive in Iceland, turn on mobile data and roaming to activate your eSIM.
💡 Tip: Before installing your new eSIM, remove any expired profiles and label your current eSIM (e.g., "Iceland eSIM") to avoid confusion when switching between plans.
Once activated, you'll be ready to connect to Iceland’s reliable 4G and 5G networks, ideal for navigating the Ring Road, sharing photos of the northern lights, or working remotely from Reykjavik or remote spots like the Westfjords.
Final recommendation: Which eSIM is best for Iceland?
Both Ubigi and eSIM4Travel offer solid 5G coverage and reliable data options for travelers in Iceland. The best choice depends on your data needs and the length of your stay.
👉 Choose Ubigi if you need larger or unlimited data plans, seamless app management, and reliable coverage across Siminn and Vodafone networks. Use code NOMADWISE for 10% off your first eSIM.
👉 Choose eSIM4Travel if you're visiting Iceland for a short trip, prefer prepaid top-ups, or need a more budget-friendly option for light data usage.
No matter which you choose, you’ll stay connected across Iceland’s cities, from Reykjavik to Akureyri, and remote regions like the Westfjords and the Golden Circle.
For peace of mind during your travels, make sure to check out our Digital Nomad Insurance Guide for Iceland to ensure you're covered while working or exploring in Iceland.
