Norway is a beautiful Scandinavian country known for its stunning natural landscapes. As a tourist visiting Norway, having a SIM card upon arrival is a good choice. Find the best place to buy a SIM card at Norway Airports to get connected when you arrive in Norway.
Table of Contents
I. Which Airport in Norway offers SIM Cards for Tourists
The two main international airports in Norway that offer SIM cards for foreign tourists are:
- Oslo Gardermoen Airport (OSL): This is the largest airport in Norway and a major international gateway. Both Telenor and Telia have stores here where you can purchase prepaid SIM cards. Many convenience stores like Narvesen and Press Stop also sell SIMs.
- Bergen Airport Flesland (BGO): Located in Bergen, this airport has retail shops from Telenor and Telia right after security where SIMs can be bought.
Oslo Gardermoen Airport has the most options and wide availability of SIM cards from various mobile carriers and stores. Bergen Airport has fewer shops but SIM cards can still be purchased.
II. Where to Buy SIM Card at Norway Airports
There are a few options to buy prepaid Norway SIM cards landside at Norwegian airports after passing immigration is Convenience store like 7-Eleven and Narvesen sell prepaid SIM cards.
- Opening hours: Open daily 6am-11pm.
- Price: Around 100 to 200 NOK for prepaid SIM with some data.
- Waiting times: Can be longer wait times midday when airports are busiest.
So in summary, carrying some local currency can facilitate easy purchase of Norway SIM card from various shops and stores conveniently situated landside at Oslo and Bergen airports.
III. What to Prepare to Buy a SIM Card at Norway Airports
To purchase a prepaid SIM card at Norwegian airports, you need:
- Passport: Your passport is mandatory for buying any SIM card as proof of identity.
- Unlocked phone: Your phone must be unlocked to use a local Norway SIM.
- Credit card: Credit card is useful for SIM purchase or top ups although some places accept cash.
So be sure to carry your passport, an unlocked phone that supports local frequencies, a credit card and portable charger when buying Norway SIM card at the airport to avoid any inconveniences.
IV. Norway eSIM – an Alternative to SIM Card at Norway Airports
While physical SIM cards can be purchased at Norwegian airports, eSIM technology offers a great alternative solution:
- Convenience: eSIMs can be digitally downloaded to your phone instead of physically switching SIMs. Saves time and hassle.
- Flexibility: eSIM allows you to have 2 active numbers on your phone. You can use your existing number and local Norway data.
- Seamless connectivity: eSIMs offer reliable connectivity across Norway by leveraging multiple carrier networks. No need to find stores.
Thus an eSIM like Norway eSIM can be a better option over airport SIM cards thanks to the ease, flexibility and connectivity offered to leisure and business travelers alike.
V. FAQs
Can I buy SIM card late at night or early morning at Norway airports?
Most stores and vending machines at major Norway airports operate 24/7 allowing travelers to buy local SIM cards at all hours although selections may be less late night or very early morning. However, eSIMs offer 24/7 convenience without the need to find a physical store.
How much do SIM cards cost at Norway airports?
Prepaid SIM cards at Norway airports typically cost around 100-200 NOK with some included domestic data which is reasonably priced. However, Norway eSIMs can offer more data at lower costs, and the ability to renew data packs as required conveniently from your phone without visiting physical stores repeatedly.
Do I need to wait long to get SIM card at Norway airports?
In some cases, queues can exist at mobile carrier stores in Norwegian airports to get SIM cards during peak arrival or departure times which delays the process. With eSIMs, activation is completely digital so you can get connected faster without any wait times standing in queues.
Is Norway eSIM better than getting SIM card at Norway airports?
Yes, getting an eSIM is generally better than hunting for local Norway SIM cards at the airport when visiting. With Norway eSIM, you get both the convenience of keeping your existing number as well seamless connectivity through one solution that intelligently leverages multiple mobile networks in the country.
VI. Conclusion
Getting a Norway SIM card at local airports is certainly an option upon arrival to stay connected during your travels. However eSIM technology offers greater convenience through online purchase options before arrival and instant digital activation in your device on landing. An Norway eSIM may be worth considering over hunting for physical SIM cards only at the airports.
