Can I use my existing SIM card when I travel internationally?

It depends on the plan and carrier, but you may incur high roaming fees, so it's usually cheaper to buy a local SIM card and use your own phone to stay connected.

Can I buy a SIM card online?

Yes, you can buy SIM cards online from most carriers. And most MVNOs are online only.

How long does it take to activate a SIM card?

It depends on the SIM card and carrier. You may need to wait a few days for your physical SIM card to be delivered before activating it. But if you get an eSIM, your new plan can be live within a few minutes.

Where Can I Buy a SIM Card?

2 min read

Updated January 10, 2024

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This is your guide to where you can buy a SIM card.

Whether you're looking to switch carriers, get additional SIM cards for your family, or want a SIM card for traveling. Below I'll share where you can purchase a SIM card and some top recommendations for the best SIM card deals.

Things to consider before buying a SIM card

Depending on the reason you're buying a new SIM card, there are a number of things that are worth considering:

Compatible device: You'll need to make sure that your device is compatible with the SIM card you're buying. If your device is unlocked, it's likely to be compatible with all networks.
Network coverage: If you're buying a SIM card from a new carrier, it's always worth checking network coverage in your area.
Cost: With a variety of SIM card plans comes a range of prices, so make sure you know what you need access to with your SIM card so you can get the best SIM card for your needs at an affordable price.

Where to buy a SIM card

One of the most common places to buy a SIM card is from the carrier directly, whether that's online or in-store.

However, after over 10 years in the industry, at MoneySavingPro, we're helping to uncover low-cost carriers (MVNOs). They operate on the three major networks while offering affordable plans with no long-term contracts. And you can purchase SIM cards from these carriers in a couple of places:

Online

MVNOs are online-based, so most do not have any physical stores; some, like Boost Mobile, have local stores that you can visit, but most are online only.

The great thing about this is the convenience, as you can take your time to browse the offers and plans available without being pressured into a plan that might not fit your needs. As well as having the SIM card delivered right to your door. Plus, if you're opting for an eSIM, you'll be up and live with your new plan with just a few clicks.

Retailers

Some MVNOs are available in retail stores like Best Buy, Walmart, and Target.

Local stores

You'll find some of the older low-cost carriers like Boost Mobile do have physical stores. If you've got one in your local area, you can visit them to purchase your SIM card.

Buying a SIM card FAQs

Recap

Whether you're switching carriers or looking to purchase additional SIM cards, there are plenty of ways you can buy a SIM card.

With MVNOs, you'll find their affordable SIM card deals online, in retailers like Best Buy, Target, and Walmart, or for some, like Boost Mobile, a local store.