Arriving in Vietnam: Why Internet Was My First Priority
When I landed in Vietnam earlier this year, my first thought was not food or sightseeing — it was internet. I needed to book a Grab to my Airbnb, message my host, and quickly check emails. On my previous trips, I used airport kiosks to buy physical SIM cards, but this time I wanted to see if eSIMs could make things easier.
Airport SIM vs Online eSIM: My First Attempts
At Noi Bai International Airport in Hanoi, I watched long queues of travellers waiting for SIM cards. It reminded me of my past experiences — dealing with paperwork, showing my passport, and waiting 20–30 minutes. This time, I skipped the line. I had already purchased an eSIM online through GoVnSIM. Minutes after landing, I scanned the QR code from my email, and my phone was connected. No fuss, no waiting.
Using My eSIM in Real Life Across Vietnam
The true test came in daily life. In Hanoi’s Old Quarter, I used the eSIM to order Grab bikes, navigate the narrow streets with Google Maps, and share photos instantly. In Da Nang, I spent afternoons working from cafés, tethering my laptop to my phone’s hotspot — the connection was strong enough for Zoom calls. Hoi An’s lantern-lit evenings were another highlight: I could upload pictures straight to Instagram without delay. Finally, in Ho Chi Minh City, the eSIM proved invaluable when I received OTP codes from Zalo and my banking app.
Why GoVnSIM Worked Best for Me
During my stay, I realized why GoVnSIM made a difference compared to other options I considered:
– Multiple choices: Viettel, VinaPhone, and MobiFone plans.
– Reliable support on WhatsApp (+84 98 307 49 15).
– Options with Vietnamese phone numbers, which made OTP and local calls possible.
– Auto-activation on the chosen start date, so I didn’t have to worry about timing.
Pros and Cons from My Trip
✅ Pros:
– Saved me time — no waiting at airports.
– Strong 4G/5G coverage in cities and popular tourist spots.
– Cheaper than roaming fees from my home carrier.
– Worked with hotspot and OTP for local apps.
⚠️ Cons:
– Requires an eSIM-compatible device.
– Daily data caps on some plans (though I never exceeded them).
Final Thoughts: Would I Recommend It?
After three weeks of using eSIMs in Vietnam, I can confidently say they changed the way I travel. From saving time at the airport to making daily life smoother, the convenience was unmatched. If you’re visiting Vietnam, I’d highly recommend skipping the physical SIM hassle.
I personally used GoVnSIM, and it became my go-to for staying connected. If you’re planning your trip, check out their options here: https://govnsim.com/
