It’s important to have a local SIM card when visiting Norway to avoid expensive international roaming fees. As the largest telecommunications provider in the country, Telenor offers a variety of SIM card plans to suit different travel needs. For even more flexibility, Telenor Norway eSIM is another excellent choice. This allows convenience of downloading additional data packages during your visit as needed. In this guide, we will review Telenor SIM card options, focusing on features, costs, and real customer experiences that can help you chose the best local connectivity solution.
Table of Contents
I. Quick Facts about Telenor Norway
Telenor is Norway’s leading and most reliable operator known for wide network coverage in the country:
- Established: Telenor was established in 1855 initially as a state-owned monopoly provider of telegraph services.
- Branding name: The company rebranded as Telenor in 1969.
- Services provided: Telenor provides a wide range of telecommunication services including mobile operations, fixed telephony, broadband and TV services.
- Number of subscribers: As of Q3 2023, Telenor has about 182 million mobile subscriptions across the 8 markets it operates in.
- Number of stores: Telenor has over 250 Telenor branded stores across Norway.
- Customer service: Telenor provides customer support in English and Norwegian through call centers, online chat and social media.
- Awards: Telenor has received awards for market leadership, 5G development, sustainability practices and strong customer satisfaction.
II. Why Telenor When You’re Exploring Norway – Coverage and Speed
2.1 Telenor Coverage in Norway
According to this map, Telenor has an extremely reliable network coverage throughout Norway that makes it a great choice for both domestic and international travelers. With over 99% of the population covered by their 4G LTE network, Telenor provides fast connectivity even in many remote areas. Their network reaches all major cities and most towns, as well as covering highways and major roads between destinations. Coverage also extends into popular tourist sites such as fjords, mountains, and coastal regions that visitors want to explore.
So tourists can rely on staying in touch with a Telenor SIM, without disruption. With such extensive coverage across the country, Telenor provides tourists with robust cellular access no matter where their adventures take them.
2.2 Telenor Speed
Telenor offers some of the fastest mobile data speeds in Norway. According to independent metrics from Opensignal, Telenor users in Norway experience average download speeds of 119.9 Mbps on their 4G LTE network. These speeds allow tourists to seamlessly stream HD videos, browse photos/websites, use maps/navigation without delays, and share content like Snapchat or Instagram stories in real-time. Downloading larger apps or files takes just moments.
👉Conclusion: With the best coverage and fastest speeds, Telenor is a great choice for tourists to stay connected across Norway. The reliable connectivity allows sharing travel experiences seamlessly.
III. Telenor Connectivity Options for Travelers to Norway
Telenor offers several options for travelers visiting Norway to stay connected, each with their own benefits. The main choices are a traditional Telenor SIM card, pocket WiFi device, or international roaming through your home carrier. The following table compares these three options on important factors tourists should consider:
| Connectivity Option | Pros | Cons | Price Range | Best For? |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Telenor SIM Card | Full control over usage/costs, fast LTE speeds, bundled data packages | Need compatible device, extra step to set up | ~$15-30 for starter pack and data | Individual travelers staying >5 days |
| Pocket WiFi | Convenient portable access, can share with group | Limited data, extra cost, short battery life | ~$60-100/week rental | Short trips or groups where one device is shared |
| International Roaming | Immediate connectivity, use existing number abroad | Expensive per MB, slow 2G speeds, extra charges | $5-15/day or more in fees | Emergency or limited use under 5 days |
In conclusion, a Telenor SIM card is likely the best connectivity option for most tourists visiting Norway. It offers reliable coverage, fast speeds, and full control over data usage and costs through prepurchased packages. Alternatively, Telenor Norway eSIM presents a convenient digital solution without the need to insert a physical card.
IV. Best Telenor SIM Card for Tourists & Cost
Telenor offers both prepaid and postpaid SIM cards for tourists in Norway. The best prepaid option for most travelers is the Telenor Tourist SIM due to its great value plans with generous data, calls and texts allowances.
| Plan | Data Limit | Price (NOK/month) | Price (USD/month) | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ubegrenset Start | Unlimited | 499,- | ~$46.60 | Unlimited data up to 250 Mbps, EU data included |
| Ubegrenset Standard | Unlimited | 599,- | ~$55.90 | Unlimited data up to 1000 Mbps, security features |
| Liten 5GB | 5GB | 329,- | ~$30.70 | Data rolls over, up to 250 Mbps |
| Normal 10GB | 10GB | 379,- | ~$35.40 | Data rolls over, EU data included |
In summary, Telenor offers tourists in Norway a excellent range of competitively priced SIM card plans with generous data allotments. All plans include useful features like data rollover and EU roaming on some packages. This makes it simple for tourists to choose a plan to suit their travel needs and budget.
V. Does Telenor Support eSIM in Norway?
Yes, Telenor does offer eSIM support for their customers in Norway. It is an excellent cellular connectivity option for tourists visiting the country to consider. Signing up for an eSIM through Telenor does not incur any additional costs – it is a free option. For a twin eSIM with data included, Telenor charges a monthly fee of 99 NOK (~$9.37). eSIM allows travelers a convenient way to get mobile service in Norway without having to obtain a physical SIM card.
Some advantages of Telenor tourist eSIM for Norway:
- Convenience – No need to purchase or insert a physical SIM card. Just download the eSIM profile.
- Flexibility – Easy to purchase additional data packages directly from your phone as needed.
- Instant activation – Data plans start working immediately upon purchase of eSIM profile. No waiting for physical SIM shipping/activation.
VI. Where can You Buy a Telenor SIM Card and eSIM?
6.1 Where to Buy Telenor SIM card for Norway?
- Telenor Stores – You’ll find Telenor retail stores in most major cities and airports across Norway. Stores stock all prepaid and postpaid SIM options.
- Major retail stores – Large retail chains like Narvesen, 7-Eleven, and MiniPrisen sell Telenor prepaid SIM cards that can be activated immediately.
- Online from Telenor Norway website – You can order Telenor SIM cards on their website telenor.no and have them delivered to an address in Norway. Delivery is usually within 2-3 business days.
The easiest options are likely purchasing directly from a Telenor store or major retailers in Norway. SIM cards usually include some prepaid credit and are inexpensive starting from $30.70. An international delivery takes longer but is an option if arriving in Norway without a SIM.
6.2 Where to Buy Telenor eSIM in Norway?
Here are two common options to buy a Telenor eSIM for use in Norway:
- Purchase directly from Telenor’s website/app (telenor.no):
You can purchase an eSIM plan directly from their website at telenor.no or via the Telenor app. To do so, you will first need to create a Telenor user account by providing some basic identification information like your name, address, and Norwegian ID number. eSIM with data plans start from 99NOK (~$9.37).
- Purchasing from NorwayeSIM.com:
An alternative is to purchase a Telenor Norway eSIM plan from norwayesim.com. Here, visitors can browse various prepaid data packages valid for different lengths of a trip. No ID or documentation is required to purchase, simply select the suitable package and complete checkout. This makes Norway eSIM very convenient and affordable for tourists only needing connectivity during their visit.
VII. How to Activate Telenor SIM card/eSIM in Norway?
7.1 How to Use Telenor SIM Card in Norway?
You only need to follow these simple steps and everything will be ready:
- Insert the SIM card: Locate the SIM card slot on your device
- Power on your device: Turn on your device and wait for it to recognize the SIM
- Activate the SIM card
- Set up APN settings if you cannot use the eSIM
- Check your services
7.2 How to Activate Telenor eSIM?
Getting started with a Telenor eSIM for Norway is quite easy as follows:
- Install the eSIM
- Activate the eSIM
- Set up the eSIM
- Start using the eSIM: Once the eSIM is activated and set up, you can start using the services.
Please check your detailed instructions below:
VIII. FAQs about Telenor in Norway
Will I have service throughout Norway?
Yes, Telenor has reliable 4G LTE coverage across the entire country including remote areas, small towns and cities. The eSIM will work anywhere within Norway.
Can I make phone calls with an eSIM data plan?
NorwayeSIM.com offers eSIM with Phone Number, which include voice/SMS. Others are data-only. Be sure to select a plan with calling minutes if you need that functionality.
Can I use Telenor SIM across Scandinavia?
Telenor has surplus EU roaming allowances on tourist SIMs allowing use across Sweden, Denmark and Finland. But primary usage must be in Norway.
How can I top up my Telenor prepaid SIM card?
You can top up credit for your Telenor prepaid SIM card online via their website or mobile app. You can also top up at Telenor stores, kiosks, grocery stores and ATMs displaying the Telenor sign. Top ups can be made with cash or card.
Is Telenor good value for money compared to other providers?
Telenor offers competitively priced plans and services. Prepaid plans provide good value if you only need coverage for a short trip. Monthly plans are also affordable compared to other European countries. The widespread network coverage also ensures you get service almost everywhere.
IX. Final Words
A Telenor SIM card is an excellent option for maintaining connectivity while exploring scenic Norway. Their extensive 4G/5G network provides reliable coverage across the country, even in remote areas. Prepaid plans offer good value and flexibility for budget travelers. For an even simpler setup, consider getting a Telenor Norway eSIM.
With Telenor in your pocket, you can fully immerse yourself in Norway’s breathtaking landscapes while easily sharing your gorgeous photos and travel updates back home.
