Best eSIM cards for mobile data for Iceland

Introduction

Iceland represents a unique Nordic destination that annually attracts thousands of travelers, photographers, nature lovers, and adventure tourists. Visitors are drawn to the breathtaking landscape with glaciers, volcanoes, geysers, and thermal springs, as well as the opportunity to observe the Northern Lights.

When traveling to Iceland, reliable internet connection is essential – whether for navigation in remote areas, sharing experiences, or for emergencies. However, standard roaming can be extremely expensive, and finding a local SIM card after arrival is unnecessarily complicated. That's why more and more travelers choose eSIM as an effective way to stay connected without physically exchanging cards.

In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore the most reliable eSIM providers for Iceland, including Airalo, Holafly, Yesim, eSIM4Travel, Jetpac, Global YO and GigSky. We'll analyze their data packages in detail (2 GB, 5 GB, 10 GB, 20 GB or unlimited) and help you find the ideal solution for your trip.

With an eSIM card, you'll avoid unpleasant surprises in the form of high roaming charges and gain the certainty of connection immediately upon arrival. In the following chapters, you'll find detailed activation guides, useful tips for Icelandic conditions, and an objective comparison of all available options so you can enjoy your journey through Iceland without worrying about internet connection.

Best eSIM Providers for Iceland

eSIM4Travel in Iceland

4.4/5 ★★★★☆

eSIM provider eSIM4Travel from the USA offers very competitive prices for data plans and coverage in 170 countries. It doesn't offer an app, but allows easy setup via QR code and has excellent customer support through online chat.

Basic Information

170 countries, regional plans (Asia, Middle East, Latin America, Europe).

Supports data top-ups.

Hotspot allowed.

No speed limitations.

Pros and Cons

Simple installation and activation.

Very competitive prices.

Excellent customer support.

No mobile app.

Absence of unlimited data plans.

Testing

Go to eSIM4Travel website View full review

eSIM4Travel uses Nova and Vodafone networks in Iceland. These networks provide excellent coverage across the entire island including major tourist destinations. eSIM4Travel represents an affordable and effective choice for travelers seeking hassle-free connectivity. Their eSIM works immediately after activation, customer support is known for its quick response and willingness to help. Price-wise, it's among the most affordable options on the market. The advantages include no speed limitations, no need to install additional apps, and if needed, you can purchase additional data directly on your already activated eSIM card without having to buy a new one.

Airalo eSIM in Iceland

3.4/5 ★★★☆☆

Airalo is a popular eSIM marketplace with coverage in 211 countries, fast activation and affordable prices. However, it's not always the best choice for unlimited data.

Basic Information

211 countries, local, regional and global eSIM.

Excellent iPhone app. 4.6 from 61,000 reviews.

Excellent Android app. 4.5 from 72,000 reviews.

Supports data top-ups.

Hotspot allowed.

No speed limitations.

Pros and Cons

Wide coverage (211 countries) and easy activation.

User-friendly app and website.

Immediate functionality after installation without needing to restart.

Significantly higher prices compared to competitors.

Inability to purchase additional data without Wi-Fi after depleting the package.

Low rating on Trustpilot (2.6/5).

Testing

Go to Airalo website View full review

Airalo partners with Nova network in Iceland, which provides reliable coverage in most populated areas and tourist locations. Airalo users appreciate the simplicity of use and trouble-free operation in Nordic countries. eSIM activation is very quick, usually taking just a few minutes, and the Airalo mobile app allows easy management and purchasing of additional data during your trip. This app also provides clear information about current data usage, which helps maintain control over your plan usage.

Holafly eSIM in Iceland

3.5/5 ★★★☆☆

Holafly is a leading Irish eSIM provider with truly unlimited data in more than 160 countries. However, if you only need a small amount of data, it might be more expensive.

Basic Information

160 countries, local and regional unlimited eSIM.

Average iPhone app. 3.5 from 150 reviews.

Excellent Android app. 4.6 from 1,000 reviews.

Supports additional data purchases.

Hotspot mostly limited to 500 MB.

Speed limited according to Fair Use Policy (approx. 4.5 GB/day).

Pros and Cons

Truly unlimited data in 160+ countries.

Fast and helpful customer support.

Low transparency regarding FUP limits.

Hotspot not available in all countries.

Testing

Go to Holafly website View full review

Holafly uses the Orange network in Iceland, which provides quality coverage and speed in cities such as Reykjavík, Akureyri, Vík, and other tourist destinations. Holafly's uniqueness lies in offering exclusively unlimited data packages, which eliminates concerns about data shortages during your trip. For visitors to Iceland, unlimited data packages are available in a price range from $7.90 to $149.90, with the option to choose validity periods from one to 90 days.

It's important to mention that although Holafly advertises unlimited data, excessive usage (such as continuous HD streaming or downloading large files) may result in temporary speed restrictions. According to user experiences, this slowdown occurs after consuming approximately 5 GB of data during intensive use in a short time period.

Yesim eSIM in Iceland

4.4/5 ★★★★☆

Yesim is a Swiss eSIM provider with coverage in 135 countries. It offers both fixed and unlimited data packages at very competitive prices.

Basic information

135 countries, local, regional and global eSIM (including unlimited).

Good iPhone app. 4.4 from 600 reviews.

Average Android app. 3.6 from 2,000 reviews.

Supports data top-ups.

Hotspot allowed.

May limit speed during excessive use.

Pros and cons

Top prices per GB.

Offers both fixed and unlimited packages.

More complicated installation than competitors.

Frequent spam notifications via email and app.

Go to Yesim website View full review

Yesim partners with Nova and Vodafone networks in Iceland. Thanks to this partnership, it offers seamless mobile connectivity in Akranes, Akureyri, Gardhabær, Hafnarfjörður, Isafjörður, Keflavik, Kopavogur, Reykjavík, Saudharkrokur, and other Icelandic cities. For more information about Yesim, we recommend reading our detailed overview of this service.

Jetpac eSIM in Iceland

3.8/5 ★★★☆☆

Jetpac offers eSIM plans with coverage in more than 150 countries. Data packages from 1 GB to 40 GB, attractive pricing and benefits such as access to airport lounges during flight delays.

Basic Information

150 countries, eSIM for individual and multiple countries.

Average iPhone app. 3.8 from 46 reviews.

Average Android app. 3.6 from 224 reviews.

Supports additional data purchase.

Hotspot allowed.

Speed limited according to Fair Use.

Pros and Cons

Low price per GB and stable speeds.

Free airport lounges and ExpressVPN.

No unlimited data plans available.

No SMS and call support.

Go to Jetpac website View full review

Jetpac uses the Nova network in Iceland, which provides quality coverage in major urban areas and popular tourist destinations. The Nova network is known for its reliability and stable connection even in the challenging climate conditions that often prevail in Iceland. More detailed information about Jetpac services can be found in our comprehensive guide about Jetpac.

Best eSIM Plans for Iceland

Below you'll find an overview of the most popular eSIM data packages available for Iceland. For a complete comparison of all offers including current prices, use our eSIM comparison tool for Iceland, where you can filter offers by data volume, validity period, and other parameters important for your trip.

Free Data in Iceland

If you only need minimal data connectivity for basic communication or checking emails, Roamless offers a free eSIM with 500 MB of data for Iceland. This amount is sufficient for basic orientation after arrival or emergency communication.

Alternatively, you can try GigSky, which provides a trial eSIM with 100 MB of free data without the need to enter payment details. This test version is ideal for trying out eSIM functionality on your device before purchasing a paid package.

For more options to obtain free data not only for Iceland but also for other destinations, visit our specialized article Free eSIM | How to get free data for the USA and abroad. A complete overview of all available offers including free options can be found in our eSIM comparison tool for Iceland.

Roamless

How to Set Up eSIM for Iceland

Setting up an eSIM for Iceland is a quick and uncomplicated process that will save you many worries during your trip. The main advantage is the possibility of complete setup before departure, which means that after landing at Keflavík Airport, you'll be immediately connected without having to look for SIM card vendors.

• Complete guide for setting up eSIM on iPhone
• How to activate eSIM on Samsung phones
• Overview of devices supporting eSIM technology

1. Check device compatibility: First, verify whether your phone supports eSIM technology. Most modern smartphones from manufacturers such as Apple, Samsung, or Google already support eSIM. To be sure, check our updated list of phones with eSIM support or detailed overview of compatible devices.

2. Choose a suitable provider: For Iceland, you have several proven providers available such as Airalo, Holafly, Yesim, eSIM4Travel, JetPac, Global YO or GigSky. When deciding on a data package, consider the length of stay and planned activities – for a short weekend trip and basic use of maps or social media, 2 GB is sufficient, for medium-length stays and more frequent photo sharing we recommend 5 GB, and for longer stays or more demanding uses such as navigation in remote areas, consider 10 GB packages. For an exact comparison of all available options, use our eSIM comparison tool for Iceland.

3. Installation via QR code: After purchase, you'll receive an email with a QR code or activation code. In your phone settings, find the section "Mobile Data," "Mobile Network," or a similar item and select "Add Data Plan" or "Add eSIM." Scan the QR code using your phone's camera and follow the displayed instructions. If you received only an activation code without a QR code, you can easily convert it to a QR code using online tools.

4. Final connection setup: In most cases, the connection will be configured automatically after completing the installation. If the system requires manual setup, you'll need to enter the APN (access point) according to the provider's instructions. Also, don't forget to activate data roaming for the eSIM profile – don't worry, you won't be charged any additional fees beyond the purchased package for this connection.

We strongly recommend installing and testing the eSIM before departure, preferably in an environment with a stable Wi-Fi connection. This gives you the assurance that upon arrival in Iceland, you'll be immediately connected without any technical complications. For more detailed information about first-time eSIM setup, visit our guide First eSIM | Everything from A to Z.

Tips for eSIM in Iceland

Iceland offers visitors unique natural experiences from majestic waterfalls through geothermal areas to glacial lagoons. Whether you're coming as a tourist, photographer, or nature lover, reliable internet connection is particularly important in Iceland. Here are useful tips for maximizing the use of your eSIM during your Icelandic adventure:

Specifics of Mobile Connection in Iceland

Iceland has very good mobile signal coverage in populated areas and along main roads, including the popular Ring Road (Road No. 1). However, in remote parts of the interior, especially in the Icelandic Highlands, the signal may be weaker or completely unavailable. Before traveling to these areas, download offline maps and necessary information. In some national parks like Þingvellir or at popular attractions like Gullfoss waterfall, coverage is usually reliable, but in more remote places like Landmannalaugar, connection may be limited.

Effective Data Limit Management

Monitoring data consumption is particularly important in Iceland, especially if you plan to travel outside the main tourist routes. Most eSIM providers offer apps for monitoring data usage. For optimal use of your data package, we recommend reading our article Saving Data on Vacation | Practical Advice and Tips, where you'll find useful strategies such as:

• Pre-downloading Google Maps or specialized apps like Maps.me for offline navigation
• Limiting the quality of played videos and streamed content
• Deactivating automatic app updates and photo backups
• Using Wi-Fi in accommodation facilities for more data-intensive activities

If you're unsure about how much data you'll need, check out our guide How Much Data You Need for Various Online Activities. For precise selection of the most suitable package, use our eSIM comparison tool for Iceland, where you can filter offers according to the required data volume and validity period.

Safety and Emergency Situations

Icelandic weather is known for its unpredictability and can change quickly, sometimes leading to challenging travel conditions. Reliable mobile connection is therefore an important safety element. Before your trip, save important phone numbers including the Icelandic emergency number 112, which works throughout the island. Also download the 112 Iceland app, which allows you to share your exact location with rescue services in case of emergency.

For trips off the main roads, especially in winter or to mountainous areas, consider getting a larger data package that ensures connection even in case of unexpected extension of your stay due to adverse weather. In remote areas where mobile signal may be weaker, it might be useful to have a backup solution such as a satellite communicator.

Communication with Home

Most eSIM packages for Iceland provide only data services without traditional calls and SMS. However, this isn't a problem because with data connection you can use apps like WhatsApp, Signal, Telegram, or FaceTime for free communication with family and friends. For calling standard phone numbers, we recommend reading our article Calling from Data eSIM | How to Make Calls Cheaply from Abroad, which contains detailed information about VoIP services and other voice communication options.

Practical Apps for Iceland

With a functional eSIM, you can use specialized apps that significantly enhance your experience of Iceland. Useful apps include Vedur (the official Icelandic meteorological app), which provides accurate weather forecasts, and Road.is with current information about road conditions. For aurora borealis tracking, we recommend apps like My Aurora Forecast or Northern Lights Iceland, which will help you plan observations of this spectacular natural phenomenon.

If you're planning nature trips, apps like Wapp - Iceland Hiking Trails offer information about hiking trails, their difficulty, and interesting places in the vicinity. For public transportation in Reykjavík, the Strætó app is useful, providing schedules and route planners.

Traveling to Surrounding Countries

Are you combining a visit to Iceland with a trip to other Nordic countries? Many providers offer regional eSIM packages for Scandinavia or Europe, which cover not only Iceland but also Norway, Switzerland, and other European destinations. These packages are often more cost-effective than acquiring separate eSIMs for each country. To find the most advantageous regional eSIM, use our eSIM comparison tool, where you can specify all countries you plan to visit.

✈️ Expert tip: Before departing to more remote areas of Iceland, always check the weather forecast and road conditions. Download offline maps, important contacts, and information about your accommodation. Even with the best data connection, you may find yourself in places without signal, and in such situations, offline information can be invaluable.

Alternative Internet Connections in Iceland

eSIM represents a modern and practical solution for mobile connection during a trip to Iceland, but it's not the only option to stay online. If your phone doesn't support eSIM or you prefer other connection methods, there are several alternatives:

Traditional Physical SIM Card

Local Icelandic SIM cards are available at Keflavík International Airport, in shopping centers in Reykjavík, and in electronics stores. The main mobile operators in Iceland are Síminn, Nova, and Vodafone Iceland, which offer prepaid packages specifically designed for tourists.

The advantages of a physical SIM card include the possibility to obtain a local phone number (useful for reservations and communication with accommodation) and sometimes lower prices compared to international eSIMs. The disadvantage is the necessity to physically visit a store after arrival, which takes time from your travel itinerary, and also the need to have a tool for removing the SIM slot. Moreover, if you don't have a dual SIM phone, you'll have to temporarily remove your home SIM card.

When obtaining a local SIM card, make sure your phone isn't locked to a specific operator (so-called SIM-locked) and that it's compatible with Icelandic frequency bands. Most modern smartphones shouldn't have compatibility issues, but with older models, it's advisable to verify this in advance.

Portable Wi-Fi Hotspots

Travel Wi-Fi devices represent a versatile alternative, especially if you're traveling in a group or with family. These compact devices create their own Wi-Fi network to which you can connect multiple devices simultaneously – smartphones, tablets, laptops, or cameras with Wi-Fi functionality. They're ideal for sharing one data connection among multiple people.

In Iceland, you can rent portable hotspots from companies like Iceland Wifi or Trawire, which offer device pickup directly at Keflavík Airport. Alternatively, devices can be reserved online before your trip and delivered to your accommodation. Some models are equipped with powerful batteries that last all day, which is important during long trips through Icelandic nature. More information about portable Wi-Fi solutions can be found in our guide Best Portable WiFi Hotspots for Travel.

The main disadvantage of these devices is an additional item you need to carry and regularly charge. Also, the price for rental or purchase tends to be higher than for eSIM or local SIM cards, especially for individuals. However, for groups of four or more people, this option may be more economically advantageous.

International Roaming

Using roaming services from your American operator is the simplest, but often financially disadvantageous solution. Iceland is not part of the European Union, so it's not subject to regulations on roaming prices within the EU, although some American operators may include Iceland in their international plans.

Prices for roaming outside standard international packages can range from dozens of dollars per day to hundreds of dollars per gigabyte of data. Before your trip, thoroughly verify the conditions and prices of roaming with your operator. Some American operators offer special travel packages that may be more affordable, but still usually more expensive than local solutions or eSIM.

The advantage of roaming is absolute simplicity – you don't need to set up or change anything, your phone will work immediately upon arrival. You also keep your home phone number for incoming calls and SMS. For short stays or business trips when you need to be constantly available on your regular number, roaming may be a practical choice despite the higher price.

Public Wi-Fi Networks

Iceland has relatively good coverage with public Wi-Fi networks, especially in Reykjavík and other larger cities. Free Wi-Fi can be found in cafes, restaurants, libraries, shopping centers, and most accommodation facilities. Some tourist information centers and popular tourist attractions also offer free connection.

Security is the main risk of public Wi-Fi networks. When connecting to unsecured networks, your personal data and online activities may be vulnerable to cyber attacks. If you decide to use public Wi-Fi, always use a VPN service that encrypts your connection and protects your privacy. Also avoid logging into banking or entering sensitive information on unsecured networks.

The main disadvantage of relying solely on public Wi-Fi is limited availability outside urban areas. In Iceland, where many of the most impressive natural attractions lie far from civilization, you'll often be without connection precisely at moments when you would need access to maps, weather forecasts, or safety information. Therefore, we recommend viewing public Wi-Fi only as a supplementary option to your main connection solution.

Mobile Networks and Operators in Iceland

Iceland has an advanced telecommunications infrastructure with several main operators providing quality services to both local residents and visitors. Understanding the local mobile market will help you choose the best eSIM or other connection solution for your trip.

Main Icelandic Mobile Operators

Síminn is the largest and oldest operator in Iceland with the most extensive coverage. This company covers approximately 99% of Iceland's populated areas and has good coverage along main roads and in popular tourist locations. Síminn was also a pioneer in implementing 5G networks in Iceland, which are now available in Reykjavík and gradually expanding to other areas.

Nova represents the second significant operator with competitive prices and good coverage in urban areas and along main tourist routes. Nova is popular among younger users and tourists thanks to attractive packages and good service quality. Their network is known for reliability and stable connection even in more challenging climate conditions.

Vodafone Iceland (Vodafone IS) is the third main player in the Icelandic mobile market. It offers extensive coverage and quality services with a focus on international roaming and services for tourists. Vodafone Iceland is not directly part of the global Vodafone group but functions as a partner with access to Vodafone's international network.

Among smaller operators are Hringdu and 365, which offer alternative services with competitive prices but more limited coverage. These companies often target specific market segments and may offer specialized packages that aren't commonly available from larger operators.

Coverage and Signal Quality

The quality of mobile signal in Iceland is generally very good in populated areas and along the main Ring Road (Road No. 1). In Reykjavík and other larger cities like Akureyri, Selfoss, or Egilsstaðir, you can expect excellent coverage with fast 4G/LTE connection, in some areas even with 5G technology.

In more remote areas, coverage may be more limited, especially in the interior and in the Icelandic Highlands. Areas like Landmannalaugar, Askja, or parts of interior F-roads may have weak signal or be completely without coverage. If you plan to visit these remote areas, it's important to download offline maps and necessary information in advance.

Coastal areas and popular tourist attractions like Seljalandsfoss and Skógafoss waterfalls, Reynisfjara black beach, or Jökulsárlón glacial lagoon usually have good coverage from all major operators. National parks like Þingvellir, Vatnajökull, and Snæfellsjökull also have relatively good coverage in main visitor areas, but in more remote parts of the parks, the signal may be weaker.

Which Networks Do eSIM Providers Use?

International eSIM providers partner with local Icelandic operators to offer their services. Here's an overview of which Icelandic networks the most popular eSIM services use:

• Airalo: Primarily uses the Nova network
• Holafly: Partners with the Orange network in Iceland
• Yesim: Offers access to Nova and Vodafone Iceland networks
• eSIM4Travel: Uses Nova and Vodafone Iceland networks
• Jetpac: Works with the Nova network
• GigSky: Partners with various Icelandic operators including Síminn

When choosing an eSIM provider, consider your travel plans. For standard tourist routes and urban areas, any provider will work well. However, if you plan to visit more remote areas or the interior, we recommend selecting a service that uses multiple networks with the ability to automatically switch for the best available signal. For easy comparison of all available options, use our eSIM comparison tool for Iceland, which will help you find the optimal solution according to your specific needs.

How to Call from Iceland

Maintaining contact with family, friends, or business partners is an important part of every trip. With an eSIM in Iceland, you have several options for effective communication without having to pay high fees for international calls.

Internet Calling via Data eSIM

Most eSIM packages for Iceland provide only data services without traditional voice calls and SMS. However, this isn't a problem because with quality data connection, you can use various applications for internet calling (VoIP - Voice over Internet Protocol).

WhatsApp is a globally widespread application for sending messages and making calls over the internet. In Iceland, it works without problems and offers quality voice and video calls. Other popular options include Signal for secure communication, Telegram with group call capabilities, and FaceTime for Apple device users. These applications allow free communication with anyone who uses the same service.

For communication with local residents or businesses in Iceland, the Messenger application may be useful, as it's widely used in the country. Skype remains a reliable choice, especially if you need to call regular phone numbers for acceptable fees.

More detailed information about internet calling options can be found in our specialized article Calling from Data eSIM | How to Call and Receive Calls Cheaply from Abroad?

Specialized Services for International Calling

For regular calling to standard phone numbers in the United States or elsewhere in the world, there are specialized services with more advantageous rates than classic international calling.

Rebtel offers competitive rates for international calling with high connection quality. The service works via Wi-Fi or mobile data and allows calling regular phone numbers worldwide. Calling to the United States starts at approximately $0.10 per minute, which is significantly less than standard international rates. Rebtel also allows receiving calls, which can be useful during longer stays.

Viber Out is another practical alternative that allows calling from the Viber application to regular phone numbers. The service offers prepaid packages or payment per minute with competitive rates for international calling. The advantage is the widespread use of the Viber application, which you probably already use for regular communication.

eSIM with Voice Services

Some eSIM providers are beginning to offer comprehensive packages that include traditional voice calls and SMS in addition to data. These services work through local networks and allow calling and receiving calls just like with a regular SIM card.

Airalo Global Calls is a supplementary service that Airalo offers in some destinations including Iceland. You can activate this service as an extension to your data package and gain the ability to call international numbers at advantageous rates directly from your eSIM.

Some regional eSIM packages for Europe, which include Iceland, may contain a limited number of minutes for calling within European countries. These packages are useful if you're combining a visit to Iceland with a trip to other European destinations and need a flexible solution for calling in various countries.

Frequently Asked Questions about eSIM in Iceland

Summary

Traveling around Iceland with eSIM brings unrivaled convenience and flexibility. Thanks to the digital SIM card, you avoid searching for local operators after arrival, don't pay excessive roaming fees, and have the assurance of immediate connection right after landing at Keflavík Airport.

In this guide, we've presented in detail the most reliable eSIM providers for Iceland, including Airalo, Holafly, Yesim, eSIM4Travel, Jetpac, Global YO and GigSky. Each of these providers offers specific advantages, and the optimal choice depends on the length of your stay, planned activities, and data connection requirements.

Among the most popular data packages are 5 GB for a standard week-long stay, 2 GB for short weekend trips, 10 GB or 20 GB for longer trips or more demanding data usage, or unlimited plan for intensive use such as remote work or frequent streaming.

For an affordable and reliable solution, we recommend considering eSIM4Travel, which offers excellent coverage thanks to using Nova and Vodafone networks. Their eSIM works immediately after activation, customer support responds quickly, and prices are among the most affordable on the market. Another advantage is the absence of speed limitations and the possibility to purchase additional data on an already activated eSIM without having to buy a new one.

For users preferring unlimited data, the optimal choice is Holafly, which uniquely offers exclusively unlimited data packages for Iceland in various validity periods.

Regardless of the chosen provider, we strongly recommend activating and testing the eSIM before departure. This gives you the assurance of trouble-free connection immediately upon arrival in Iceland, and you can fully focus on discovering the breathtaking natural beauty of this unique Nordic country.

For the most accurate and up-to-date comparison of all available eSIMs for Iceland, use our interactive eSIM comparison tool, which allows you to filter offers by data amount, validity period, and other criteria exactly according to your requirements.