SIM card Australia for tourists: Find the perfect plan for you

Can you imagine exploring the Australian outback without Google Maps? What about the bustling streets of Sydney without OpenTable? Whether you’re city hopping or outback exploring, wherever you go in Australia, you’ll want access to the internet.

One way to ensure you stay connected on your Australian adventure is buying a prepaid SIM card for Australia. In this article, we’re guiding you through the best SIM cards, their features, costs, and how to get a SIM card in Australia. We’ll also explore an eSIM alternative for you to consider.

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Best SIM cards in Australia

Australia has plenty of carriers and mobile operators such as Telstra, TPG, Superloop, Optus, and Vodafone. Most of these operators have official stores in airports and shopping malls.Just keep in mind that buying your SIM card when you arrive means that you’ll likely spend some time without an internet connection.

With that said, let’s take a closer look at your options.

TPG Telecom SIM for Australia

TPG Telecom is a widely used provider in Australia, famed for their broadband and mobile services. They offer mobile SIM plans with no lock-in contracts, and typically with unlimited standard calls and texts.

Their most popular monthly SIM plans include:

• A 25 GB small plan for $12.50 AUD (8.25 USD)
• A 50 GB small plan for $17.50 AUD   (11.50 USD)
• A 100 GB large plan for $22.50AUD  (14.85 USD) 

While TPG offers some good plans, they don’t have physical stores that you can find at the airport. Instead, you’ll need to buy from them online. This can be a bit of a nightmare if you’re hoping to get it shipped out before your flight to Australia, or don’t have a fixed address while you’re there.

Superloop Australia SIMs

While Superloop is a relatively new player in the Australian telecommunications market, they offer plenty of SIM plan options—operating on the Optus network.

Their plans typically allow for unlimited texts and calls within the country along with different data allowances. 

Some popular, 30-day plans include:

• A 10 GB plan for $20 AUD (13.20 USD)
• A 30 GB plan for $30 AUD (19.80 USD)
• A 55 GB plan for $40 AUD (36.30 USD)
• A 100 GB plan for $50 AUD (33 USD)

Keep in mind that Superloop is a new player in the telecommunications game. They lack certain features, data plan variety, and coverage that some of the more established telecommunication companies offer.

Telstra Telecommunications SIMs

Telstra Network is one of the leading Australian mobile providers, and with that title comes some of the best prepaid SIM card options. 

Besides having one of the country’s most reliable mobile networks, it also offers a prepaid SIM starter kit, accessible to visitors.

Activating Telstra’s packages will get you unlimited calls and messages to Australian numbers as well as access to 4G and 5G networks for speedy internet access.

Telstra’s four main plans include:

• A 60 GB plan for $35 AUD (23 USD)
• An 80 GB plan for $45 AUD (29 USD)
• A 100 GB plan for $55 AUD (36 USD)
• A 135 GB plan for $65AUD  (43 USD)

Many of Telstra’s SIM plans are more expensive than other carrier options in Australia. While they offer good coverage, they’re not the best choice for travelers on a budget—or those wanting to spend their hard-earned cash on all-you-can-eat Tim Tams!

Creating your dreamy Australian itinerary? Here are the top 10 things to do in Sydney. 

Optus SIM cards

Optus is another major telecommunications provider in Australia that sell SIM cards. It has a whole selection of services aimed at prepaying customers. When visiting the country, you can find their official stores through major cities and airports.

Their prepaid SIM packages include unlimited calls and messages to Australian numbers and reduced minutes for international calls within some destinations. It’s important to mention that you must have an ID to activate an Optus SIM card, and you must also have the Optus app to manage your service.

Optus’ Flex popular prepaid SIM plans include:

• A seven-day 5GB plan for $10 AUD (6.60 USD)
• A 28-day 40 GB plan for $23 AUD (15 USD)
• A 28-day 60 GB plan for $45 AUD (30 USD)
• A 28-day 80 GB plan for $55 AUD (36 USD) 
• A 186-day 120 GB plan for $160 AUD (105 USD)
• A 365-day 260 GB plan for $320 AUD (171 USD)

Optus has a wide range of affordable plans, making them a good option for many travelers. However, they’ve also been known to have weaker network coverage in rural areas and have received negative reviews for their customer service.

Perhaps Australia isn’t the only destination on your travel list. Here’s how to find the best SIM card for New Zealand.

Vodafone SIM cards

The well-known international phone company Vodafone also operates in Australia, with plenty of prepaid SIM cards for tourists. Travelers can choose from 4G and 5G connection speeds depending on the area.

Their options also include unlimited calls and messages to Australian numbers and even have an auto-renewal option.

Their 28-day plans include:

• An online-exclusive plan of 65 GB for $20 (13.20 USD)
• A 45 GB plan for $35 AUD (30 USD)
• A 85 GB plan for $55 AUD (56USD)  

 
As great as Vodafone’s plans are, users might experience inconsistent internet speeds and issues with international roaming such as additional charges and poor service quality. They’re also notorious for poor customer service. 

How much does a prepaid SIM card for the internet in Australia cost?

A prepaid SIM card for the internet in Australia will set you back anywhere from $15 – $60 (USD). This will typically get you a SIM for a 30-day period, and costs will range depending on the data package you go for. 

If you’re staying in Australia for a while, you can end up paying around $130 – $320 (USD) for a prepaid SIM with a 12-month expiry. These data allowances are larger, but are still limited. So, don’t get too comfy streaming your favorite movies on those long road trips!

With high-level costs on the table, let’s jump into a breakdown of the best SIM card companies Australia has on the market. 

Traveling to Australia alone? Grab your solo travel in Australia guide for a safe and unforgettable adventure.

Where can I buy a SIM card for Australia?

Once you touch down in Australia, you’ll be able to find a tourist SIM card in multiple places. Let’s go over three of the best places to buy a prepaid SIM card in Australia.

1. An Australian airport

Most Australian airports have kiosks and stores where you can purchase an Australia SIM card for tourists upon arrival. In most cases, you’ll be able to find major providers and carriers such as Telstra, Optus, and TPG.

The advantages of buying your SIM at the airport include a wide availability of SIM options (especially if you land in a larger airport).

Some of the disadvantages include waiting in long lines—after a long flight—and not having access to the internet the moment you land.

2. Convenience stores and supermarkets

No luck at your airport? Many convenience stores and supermarkets have SIMs suitable for tourists. You might have less choice, but you’ll still be able to find some of the best telecommunication brands in the country. 

Ask for SIM cards at stores like 7-Eleven, Woolworths, and Coles. The advantages of buying your SIM card at a convenience store includes affordability and accessibility. 

However, buying your SIM at convenience stores means you’ll likely have slim pickings on data plans in comparison to buying from airports or directly from SIM carrier stores.

3. SIM carrier stores

If you want a wider variety of SIM card plans to choose from, you can always take your pick at carrier stores like Optus, Telstra, and Vodafone. While they might be a bit more difficult to find, they’ll likely have more data usage plans available than in convenience stores and supermarkets. 

Carrier stores often offer expert assistance, making it easier to select the right data plan and can present the best prepaid SIM cards packages for your needs.

However, their prices are likely to be higher, or more targeted towards residents, making them less than ideal for a traveler—especially if you’re on a budget!

If a local prepaid SIM card isn’t cutting it, perhaps an eSIM is the way to go. Take a look at the differences between a SIM and an eSIM.

How to buy a tourist SIM card in Australia

If you need to know how to buy the best tourist SIM card in Australia, follow these steps:

1. Before traveling, research major SIM and eSIM providers and their plans. Consider coverage, data limits, your length of trip, and prices.
2. Decide where to buy your SIM card. Figure out if you can find your desired provider at the airport or a nearby convenience store. Also, consider if there are any carrier stores in the area.
3. Once you’ve made your choice, you’re all set to purchase your SIM card. Once you get your SIM, you can slide it into your cell phone and activate it to get connected!

Are you an Aussie looking to travel far and wide? Need unlimited data? Check our new Holafly Global eSIM.

Can I use an American SIM card in Australia?

If you’re traveling to the land down under with an American SIM card, you’ll be happy to hear that it will most likely work just fine! You’ll be able to make calls, text, and stay connected throughout the trip even without a tourist SIM card for Australia.

However, there are a few factors to consider:

• Roaming: using an American SIM while in Australia means you’ll be using international roaming. Your American carrier will charge you for using services abroad, which is notoriously expensive.
• Data limits: many international roaming plans have data limits. After you pass these limits, your data’s speed will drastically reduce, or stop altogether.    

Phone compatibility: most modern smartphones can work on multiple frequencies and are compatible with the Australian network. However, it’s best to be safe and check if your phone supports the necessary bands.

Using an eSIM as an alternative for an Australian SIM card

Sure,  getting a tourist SIM card for Australia gets the job done, but using an eSIM will get you better data plans, unlimited if you opt with Holafly, and is much easier to get connected. 

eSIM cards are digital versions of SIM cards, directly built into your phone. Unlike a physical card, it doesn’t need to be inserted or removed. You can purchase, activate, and switch between data plans without the need for a physical card.

Let’s take a look at why Holafly’s eSIM for Australia is a great alternative for travelers. 

Advantages and disadvantages of virtual SIM cards with Holafly

Let’s figure out if this is the best-match option for you, here’s what you can expect if you opt for an eSIM.  

Advantages of an eSIM 

• No waiting time: hop over to the Holafly store and search for Australia as your destination. Once you choose and purchase your plan, you’ll receive your QR code for your eSIM via email. It takes just a few clicks to get started. 
• Purchase your eSIM from anywhere: you only need an internet connection to go shopping with Holafly, and have various payment methods such as credit or debit card, PayPal, and Google or Apple Pay.
• Unlimited data plans: Holafly’s eSIM for Australia lets you enjoy unlimited data on all available packages with a daily 500 MB for sharing. It’s ideal for anyone who needs to stay connected without worries.

Disadvantages of an eSIM with Holafly

eSIMs are not available on all phones: virtual SIM cards are available in the latest generation of phones. Make sure to check if your cell phone is eSIM compatible before making a purchase.

How much does a Holafly eSIM card for Australia cost?

Using a Holafly eSIM is quite a bit cheaper than using a normal roaming service in Australia. Prices range from 6.9 USD to 139.9 USD for unlimited data depending on how long of a data plan you choose. Holafly’s one-day plans are almost as cheap as a jar of vegemite!

Pros of buying a data plan before traveling

You can certainly buy a SIM or esIM after you land in Australia. But, purchasing one before traveling can save you a bunch of time, effort, and get you the best data plan option for your Australian adventure. Here are the advantages.  

Access the internet the moment you land on Aussie turf

If you buy your eSIM in advance, you’ll be able to use the internet as soon as your plane lands in Australia.

Buying an eSIM before traveling lets you text your relatives to let them know you’re safe or catch an Uber without the navigating spammy airport free WiFi ads and signing up to another newsletter. 

Find your perfect match data plan

Many providers offer a wider range of good data plans online. Choosing the right one before your trip means you won’t be limited by the options you find at airports and convenience stores.

You’ll potentially have access to more benefits and more data for a smaller price tag. Save the bucks for Australia’s best ‘bevvies!’ 

Be prepared ahead of potential road bumps

Making the purchase and setting up your eSIM before you arrive in Australia, lets you resolve any issues from home rather than in an unknown area—besides, you’ve got kangaroos to be spotting!

Using an eSIM means you can prepare early on and ensures you’ll have a stable connection for any emergencies. 

Holafly’s eSIM is the perfect alternative to your quest for an Australian SIM card

With the right data plan, staying connected in Australia can be easy, regardless if you’re a light scroller or binging Netflix’s latest season of Love is Blind. We’ve shared plenty of tourist SIM card carriers and providers for Australia: TPG, Superloop, Telstra, Optus, and Vodafone.

However, Holafly’s eSIM is the best option to help you live out your Irwin family fantasies—or atleast indulging in unlimited YouTube documentaries. 

Not only is using a Holafly eSIM less costly and more convenient, but there are no minimum clauses, meaning you can get a speedy connection with no long-term commitment. With Holafly, you’re always covered with the Optus local network for Australia.

But, finally, what if you’re not a tourist?

Holafly Connect is a monthly eSIM subscription service that gives up to 5G speeds in 170+ global destinations, all under one plan. With no contracts or local ID needed, its ideal for those who:

• Arrive in a new place but don’t have an address or bank account yet
• Need consistent, fast internet to work immediately
• Want one subscription that works across multiple countries
• Need an unlimited hotspot to connect laptops, tablets, etc.
• Don’t want the hassle of dealing with local internet providers
• Need instant access to customer support at all times.

Choose from unlimited data and hotspot ($64.90), 25 GB ($49.90), or 10 GB ($39.90) plans to match your connectivity needs. Visit Holafly Connect to get started and enjoy hassle-free internet wherever life takes you.

Plans that may interest you

eSIM Australia

From

$6.90

USD

eSIM New Zealand

From

$6.90

USD

Armin Tanovic

Originally from Michigan USA and currently based in Sarajevo Bosnia and Herzegovina, Armin Tanovic has five years of experience writing content and copy for both US and European marketing agencies. He’s written for travel brands like TravelPerk, and loves an adventure in the great outdoors. You can catch him off the beaten path exploring mountains and coastlines while drawing his writing inspiration from the scenery.

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