Best eSIM Brands for Different Travel Needs: Which One Should You Choose?

Last Updated: Tuesday, September 8, 2026

Staying connected while traveling in Vietnam can make your trip much easier. From using Google Maps and booking a ride to contacting your hotel, checking emails, or keeping in touch with local partners, mobile connectivity is an important part of modern travel.

Instead of purchasing a physical SIM card after arrival, travelers with compatible devices can consider using an eSIM in Vietnam. An eSIM can be installed digitally, allowing you to get connected without replacing your physical SIM card.

However, not every traveler needs the same type of eSIM. Some travelers mainly need mobile data, while others may also need local or international calling capabilities. If you are choosing between MobiFone eSIM and Viettel eSIM, understanding how you plan to use your phone can help you select the more suitable option.

MobiFone eSIM: A Practical Choice for Calls and Data

The MobiFone eSIM can be a suitable choice for travelers who want both mobile internet and calling capability during their stay in Vietnam.

The plan includes:

3GB of data per day
15-day validity
40 minutes of international and domestic calls
SMS can be used after adding additional credit separately

This combination can be particularly convenient for travelers who may need to communicate directly by phone rather than relying entirely on internet-based applications.

Who Should Consider the MobiFone eSIM?

MobiFone may suit business travelers, short-term visitors, and travelers with local contacts in Vietnam.

For example, if you are visiting Vietnam for meetings, conferences, supplier visits, or other business activities, you may need to contact hotels, drivers, restaurants, local colleagues, or business partners by phone.

Having included call minutes can make these situations more convenient.

It may also be helpful for travelers staying only a few days who want a single eSIM that supports both everyday internet use and occasional calls.

For SMS, additional top-up is required if you need to send text messages.

Viettel eSIM: More Daily Data for Internet-Focused Travelers

Travelers who mainly use their smartphones for internet access may prefer the Viettel eSIM.

The Viettel plan includes:

5GB of high-speed data per day
15-day validity
Data-only service
The package cannot be topped up

With 5GB of high-speed data each day, this option provides more daily data than the MobiFone package.

Who Should Consider the Viettel eSIM?

The Viettel data eSIM may be more suitable for tourists and leisure travelers who primarily communicate through online applications.

Many travelers today use WhatsApp, Messenger, Telegram, LINE, WeChat, or other internet-based platforms instead of traditional phone calls.

Mobile data can also be used for everyday travel activities such as:

Google Maps and navigation
Grab or other transportation apps
Hotel and flight bookings
Translation apps
Social media
Video calls
Restaurant searches
Travel information

If you do not expect to make traditional phone calls while traveling, a data-only package can be a straightforward option.

However, because this Viettel eSIM package cannot be topped up, travelers should consider their data requirements before purchasing.

Best eSIM Brands for Different Travel Needs: Which One Should You Choose?

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MobiFone vs Viettel eSIM: Which One Should You Choose?

There is no single eSIM package that is best for every visitor. Your choice should depend primarily on how you plan to use your phone during your Vietnam trip.

Feature	MobiFone eSIM	Viettel eSIM
Daily data	3GB/day	5GB high-speed/day
Validity	15 days	15 days
Calls	40 minutes domestic & international	No
SMS	Requires separate top-up	No
Top-up	SMS requires additional credit	Cannot be topped up
Best suited for	Business trips and travelers needing calls	Tourists and data-focused travelers

If your trip involves business meetings or regular communication with people in Vietnam, MobiFone may be the more practical option because calling minutes are included.

If your priority is mobile internet for sightseeing, transportation, social media, messaging, and navigation, Viettel's 5GB daily high-speed data package may better suit your travel style.

Check eSIM Compatibility Before Your Trip

Before purchasing an eSIM, make sure your device supports eSIM technology.

Your phone should also be carrier-unlocked, and you will normally need a stable Wi-Fi connection when installing the eSIM. Vietnam-Airports.com provides a compatible-device list as well as installation instructions for iPhone, Samsung, and Google Pixel devices.

You can check more information about compatible devices and eSIM installation here.

According to the service instructions, travelers complete the application online, confirm their details and payment, receive the eSIM QR code by email, and then install the eSIM following the provided instructions.

How to Apply for a Vietnam eSIM Online

Applying for an eSIM before your Vietnam trip can help you prepare your mobile connectivity in advance.

The booking process allows travelers to select an eSIM service, provide their travel and contact information, and proceed with the service application online.

If you would like to arrange your Vietnam eSIM before traveling, you can submit your application through Vietnam-Airports.com.

Apply for Your Vietnam eSIM

Apply for Vietnam eSIM Now

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Which eSIM is better for tourists in Vietnam?

For travelers who mainly need internet access for maps, transportation apps, messaging, and social media, the Viettel data-only eSIM may be a suitable option because it includes 5GB of high-speed data per day.

2. Which eSIM is better for a business trip to Vietnam?

MobiFone may be more convenient for business travelers because the package includes both 3GB of daily data and 40 minutes of domestic and international calls.

3. Can I make phone calls with the Viettel eSIM?

The Viettel package described here is a data-only eSIM, so it does not include traditional voice-call service.

4. How do I know whether my phone supports eSIM?

Check your phone model against the compatible-device list before purchasing. Your device should also be carrier-unlocked. Installation instructions and device information are available on the Vietnam-Airports.com eSIM page.

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