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Ireland: 6 Best Prepaid SIM Cards Buying Guide (2023)

Ireland – the land of the Leprechaun, St. Patrick's Day & Guinness Beer.

Just like in the United Kingdom, the pubs are popular in Ireland.

If Irish Pubs are better than the British ones – I cannot tell. I do not drink ;)

The country also has a rich history and loads of nature to explore.

With rugged landscapes, there are beautiful hills to explore.

Arts and culture are also prominent in Ireland.

And, of course, you can drink yourself away in any pub – even in the most remote town you can think of.

Before you post your party pics online, be aware that international roaming can be expensive.

Luckily for you, however, local SIM cards are a thing, and they are often much cheaper than international roaming rates.

So, how expensive are Irish SIM cards?

You can get an Irish SIM card for free from Vodafone, Three, Eir & Lycamobile, but a top-up or plan purchase is required. Both AnPost Mobile and Tesco Mobile sell SIM cards for 15 EUR (16.10 USD – together with a plan). SIM cards are also available from resellers (grocery stores) or Dublin Airport (DUB).

If only the SIM cards were truly free. Ah well, nothing is free in this world, am I right?

What is cool, though, is that you can get truly unlimited data for as little as 20 EUR in Ireland, which is cheap!

Especially considering that such plans are usually reserved for postpaid customers.

In this guide, I will go over everything you need to know about buying a SIM card in Ireland. Let’s go.

Buying a SIM Card in Ireland Guide (logos of Eir, Three/3, Vodafone, Lycamobile, Tesco Mobile & AnPost)

Original publication: 13th of September 2021. Last updated: 21st of September 2023.


Table of Contents

In This Guide Show

Can You Buy a SIM Card in Ireland?

Anyone living in or visiting Ireland can buy an Irish SIM card from the mobile network operators (Vodafone, Three, Eir, AnPost Mobile, Lycamobile & Tesco Mobile) without restrictions.

Be aware that you need a phone that supports the frequencies used in the country (preferably all of them to have the most optimal experience while in Ireland).

And your phone should be unlocked (SIM-lock-free).

Where Can You Buy a SIM Card in Ireland?

You can buy an Irish SIM card in the mobile operator stores (Vodafone, Three, Eir, AnPost Mobile & Tesco Mobile) or other retailers (for Lycamobile), including grocery stores, electronic stores & convenience stores. Dublin Airport (DUB) sells SIM cards too.

You can expect to pay the following for Irish SIM cards:

  • Vodafone Ireland: free, but top-up or plan purchase required
  • Three Ireland: free, but top-up or plan purchase required
  • Eir: free, but top-up or plan purchase required
  • AnPost Mobile: 15 EUR (together with a plan)
  • Lycamobile Ireland: variable
  • Tesco Mobile Ireland: 10 EUR or 15 EUR (together with a plan)

For up-to-date EUR:your currency (let's say GBP) exchange rates, use the Wise Currency Converter tool.

  • Find out how much SIM cards cost in every country, including data-only SIM cards and tourist SIM cards, offered by each mobile operator + information about starter benefits (lookup tool)
SIM Card Prices Worldwide Tool by Phone Travel Wiz
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Can You Use Your Phone in Ireland?

Ireland uses GSM technology for mobile communications. CDMA phones will not work in Ireland. If your phone has a SIM card slot, then it supports GSMA (99% of the phones do support GSM nowadays).

Traditional European frequencies are used in Ireland, which are mostly used in ITU Regions 1 and 3 (Africa, Asia (including the Middle East), Europe & Oceania).

The Americas (North-, Central– & South America + the Caribbean – ITU Region 2) use American Frequencies, which differ from the European ones.

ITU Regions Map by Phone Travel Wiz

If you bought your phone in Africa, Asia, Europe, or Oceania (ITU Regions 1 and 3), you should not experience any issues with using your phone in Ireland.

If you purchased your phone in the Americas (ITU Region 2) and have a low/medium-end device (without Tri-Band or Quad-Band) support, then there is a possibility you cannot use your phone when in Ireland or can only use slower networks (3G or 2G).

If you have a medium/high-end device with Tri-Band or Quad-Band support, you can use your phone in Ireland (to some extent) – also on 4G/LTE and 5G NR.

Mobile Operators, Networks & Frequencies in Ireland

Cellular Connectivity Illustration by Phone Travel Wiz

Ireland has three Main Operators and three Mobile Virtual Network Operators (MVNOs) offering prepaid services easily accessible to travelers:

  • Vodafone Ireland
  • Three Ireland
  • Eir
  • AnPost Mobile (Vodafone Ireland MVNO)
  • Lycamobile Ireland (Three Ireland MVNO)
  • Tesco Mobile (Three Ireland MVNO)

The following frequencies are used in Ireland:

  • 2G: 900 MHz & 1800 MHz
  • 3G: 900 MHz & 2100 MHz
  • 4G/LTE: 800 MHz (Band 20) & 1800 MHz (Band 3)
  • 5G NR: 1800 MHz (n3) & 3500 MHz (n78)

You can learn more about frequencies in the video below.

To check whether your phone will work in Ireland, check out this page by Kimovil or this one by Will My Phone Work (outdated, unfortunately, but extremely user-friendly – useful for phones launched in or before 2019. It does not check for 5G NR compatibility).

Again, make sure your phone is unlocked. Otherwise, you will not be able to use any SIM card except the one from your home operator (meaning you have to roam internationally or buy another unlocked phone that does support the frequencies listed above).

If you want to learn how international roaming works, this guide explains it in-depth. If you wonder why it is often so expensive to roam, this article explains the hidden reason they do not want you to know.

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5G NR in Ireland

5G NR Connectivity Illustration by Phone Travel Wiz

Commercial 5G NR has been available in Ireland since September 2020. It is available on the Vodafone Ireland, Three Ireland & Eir networks. Only Three Ireland offers 5G NR to prepaid customers (for a fee). The MVNOs (AnPost Mobile, Lycamobile Ireland & Tesco Mobile Ireland) do not have access to 5G NR (yet).

Three Ireland charges prepaid customers 5 EUR to use its 5G NR network.

Although that is not a substantial fee, it may not be worth it due to its 5G NR network is still being rolled out and is primarily available in urban areas.

However, it could be worth trying Three Ireland's 5G NR network out already (if you have a 5G NR compatible phone, of course).

It is unknown when Vodafone Ireland and Eir will allow prepaid customers access to their 5G NR networks.

Best SIM Card in Ireland

If you want to buy the best SIM card in Ireland, I recommend going with Vodafone or Three. Vodafone has the best coverage in the country. Three has the fastest speeds. Three is the only mobile operator offering 5G NR to prepaid customers (for a 5 EUR surcharge).

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Best eSIM in Ireland

Unfortunately, none of the mobile operators offer eSIMs to prepaid customers in Ireland (yet).

However, you can also get a travel eSIM from various eSIM providers.

The list below is not exhaustive – many more providers have eSIMs for Ireland.

But these are the ones I have tried and had pleasant experiences with.

Moreover, they are reasonably priced, which I find very important (you will not see me recommending an eSIM I would not buy myself).

So here are the 12 best eSIMs for Ireland:

Because this is the SIM card buying guide for Ireland, I will not spend too much time about travel eSIMs here and throughout this guide (but I will still do here and there).

If you want to learn more about the best eSIMs for Ireland, you better check out my Ireland eSIM buying guide.

It is as helpful and comprehensive as this guide but about eSIMs instead 😜.

Buying an eSIM for Ireland Guide (logos of Holafly, Airalo, Three (3), Eir, Nomad, SimOptions, Vodafone, AIS, Eurolink, Alosim & Fáilte)

SIM Card Registration in Ireland

SIM card registration using your passport information is not needed when buying a SIM card in Ireland.

  • Find out which countries have SIM card registration regulations and what is required from you (lookup tool)
SIM Card Registration Worldwide Tool by Phone Travel Wiz

EU Roaming in Ireland

European Union (EU) & European Economic Area (EEA)

Ireland is part of the European Union (EU).

Since June 2017, those with EU/EEA (European Economic Area) SIM cards can roam for free in other EU/EEA nations, including Ireland.

This means that, in the majority of cases, you do not need to purchase an Irish SIM card if you already have an EU/EEA SIM card because you can roam without additional costs.

However, conditions do apply. Mobile operators in some countries may impose a roaming Fair Use Policy (FUP).

In countries where local mobile data rates are extremely low (such as in the Baltics and the Nordics), mobile operators may still charge you for roaming in the EU/EEA.

Be sure to head over to the international roaming page to learn whether your mobile operator offers free roaming while in Ireland or if restrictions apply.

Roaming in the EU with Irish SIM Cards

Ireland and the Irish mobile operators have largely adopted the roam like at home regulations principles early on.

However, some plans have an EU/EEA roaming cap.

Moreover, the standard Fair Use Policy applies where you should not be roaming over 50% of the time over a four-month period.

If you do so, EU roaming rates will apply. You are then better off buying local prepaid SIM cards in other EU nations.

Ireland Mobile Speeds, Mobile Internet Prices & Insights

Flag of Ireland

While we have already seen that international roaming may not always be worth it because of the costs, the price of mobile data in certain countries can be high (too).

Luckily, the mobile data rates in Europe are quite low – compared to other regions globally.

And the same can be said about Ireland.

The average price for 1 GB of data in Ireland is 1.42 USD, below the European average of 2.50 USD. The world average is 4.07 USD.

Cable.co.uk split Europe into three territories: Western Europe, Eastern Europe, and the Baltics. The Western European average cost of 1 GB of data, using Cable.co.uk’s definition, is 2.66 USD.

So, Ireland is doing well.

Let's talk about speed. No, not that speed. Mobile download speeds.

What can you expect in Ireland?

Ireland’s average mobile download speed is around 52 Mbps.

Just around the global average download speed – Ireland is doing great!


And the average mobile download speeds have increased steadily over the year.

Ireland Average Mobile Data Speeds Compared 2020 2021

But, which mobile operator is the fastest?

That would be Three Ireland, according to Opensignal.

Opensignal and Speedtest use different methods to calculate speeds, which is why Opensignal's figures are (much) lower than Speedtest's.

In terms of overall performance, both Vodafone and Eir are leading the pack.

With fast mobile download speeds, extensive nationwide coverage, reasonably priced SIM cards, and low mobile data rates, you should have a smooth network experience in Ireland.

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Currency in Ireland

Ireland uses the Euro with the symbol EUR (which will be used throughout this guide).

However, prices are often listed as just . For example, 25 EUR = €25.

For reference, below are some exchange rates between EUR and USD (US Dollars):

  • 1 EUR = 1.10 USD
  • 10 EUR = 10.70 USD
  • 100 EUR = 107.15 USD

For up-to-date EUR:your currency (let's say GBP – (British) Pound (Sterling)) exchange rates, use the Wise Currency Converter tool.

If your credit/debit card charges you foreign exchange fees, get yourself a Wise Borderless Account and Debit Card.

Their fees are MUCH lower than banks and credit card companies charge you (and Wise is transparent about their fees, unlike banks).

I have saved literal THOUSANDS of Australian Dollars and Euros, my main currencies, when using Wise abroad when traveling compared to my debit and credit cards.

Open a Wise account for FREE!

Wise Currency Exchange Banner
© Wise

Irish Prepaid SIM Cards

Below, I will guide you through Vodafone Ireland, Three Ireland, Eir, AnPost Mobile, Lycamobile Ireland & Tesco Mobile Ireland, and go through:

  • Background information
  • Mobile coverage
  • SIM card types, prices, and availability
  • Recharge/top-up information
  • Combo plans, data plans, and special packs (such as social media packs) 

With that being said, let’s see what Ireland has to offer to us.


Vodafone Ireland

Vodafone Logo
© Vodafone

Vodafone Ireland, just Vodafone, is the largest mobile operator in Ireland.

It is also the oldest mobile operator in the country when we take Eircell's history into account.

Eircell was founded in 1984. Vodafone bought it in 2001 and managed to become the most dominant player in the market since.

Vodafone, as a company, is active in Africa, Asia, Europe, the Middle East & Oceania.

Vodafone uses the following frequencies:

  • 2G: 900 MHz & 1800 MHz
  • 3G: 900 MHz & 2100 MHz
  • 4G/LTE: 800 MHz (Band 20) & 1800 MHz (Band 3)
  • 5G NR: 3500 MHz (n78) – not for prepaid (yet)

This is what you will learn about Vodafone:

* Coverage
* How to Get a Vodafone SIM Card & SIM Card Price
* Topping Up Options & Methods + Balance Check
* Plans & Packages
* APN/Internet Settings

Coverage – Vodafone Ireland

Vodafone has the best coverage in Ireland.

It has the most extensive 4G/LTE coverage.

This was also confirmed by Opensignal.

Below is Vodafone Ireland's coverage map produced by Speedtest:

However, click here to see Vodafone Ireland's official coverage map.

SIM Card Price – Vodafone Ireland

Vodafone SIM cards are technically free in Vodafone stores. However, you are expected to top up or purchase a plan on the spot. They are also available at Dublin Airport.

  • Find out how much SIM cards cost in every country, including data-only SIM cards and tourist SIM cards, offered by each mobile operator + information about starter benefits (lookup tool)
SIM Card Prices Worldwide Tool by Phone Travel Wiz

Therefore, if you wish to get an eSIM for Ireland without personal detail capturing, you can get Ireland Fáilte eSIMs from Airalo (six options):

Ireland Fáilte eSIM Airalo
© Airalo
  1. 1 GB/7 days
  2. 2 GB/15 days (new) – very popular with Phone Travel Wiz readers
  3. 3 GB/30 days
  4. 5 GB/30 daysmost popular with Phone Travel Wiz readers
  5. 10 GB/30 daysvery popular with Phone Travel Wiz readers
  6. 20 GB/30 days (new)

Note: Phone Travel Wiz reader popularity ranking was updated in September based on data up to the 7th of September (2023 data only).

No idea what or who Airalo is? Check out my Airalo review, where I share my hands-on experience after using its eSIMs in more than 25 countries over four years.

Airalo General Review & In-Depth Analysis by Phone Travel Wiz

If you plan on visiting other neighboring European nations, consider the Airalo Eurolink eSIM to be used in 39 European countries with six variants:

  1. 1 GB/7 days
  2. 3 GB/30 daysvery popular with Phone Travel Wiz readers
  3. 5 GB/30 daysmost popular with Phone Travel Wiz readers
  4. 10 GB/30 daysvery popular with Phone Travel Wiz readers
  5. 50 GB/90 days
  6. 100 GB/180 days

Note: Phone Travel Wiz reader popularity ranking was updated in September based on data up to the 7th of September (2023 data only).

Airalo Eurolink eSIM Eligible Countries Map Infographic by Phone Travel Wiz (August 2023 Version)

Do you think the map above is nice, but you want a country list instead (because you do not recognize the countries on a map🗿)? You can find it in my Airalo review!

By the way, you get free 5G NR access in 22 of the 39 supported countries!

I have used the Airalo Eurolink eSIM in 11 countries so far, and my goal is to test it in all supported countries.

Airalo Eurolink eSIM Review by Phone Travel Wiz

Many more travel eSIMs will perform well in Ireland

You can read about them in my Best Ireland eSIMs Compared guide for an in-depth comparison.

Buying an eSIM for Ireland Guide (logos of Holafly, Airalo, Three (3), Eir, Nomad, SimOptions, Vodafone, AIS, Eurolink, Alosim & Fáilte)
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Top-Up, Recharge & Balance Check – Vodafone Ireland

Vodafone top-up vouchers are sold in Vodafone stores and many other establishments, such as kiosks, gas stations, and grocery stores.

To top up your Vodafone SIM card, call 1741 and follow the instructions.

You can also recharge online with (international) debit and credit cards.

Text BAL to 50233 to check your Vodafone balance.

You can also top up and check your balance on the My Vodafone Ireland app (Android/iOS).

Vodafone Ireland My Vodafone Ireland App
© Vodafone Ireland

Packages, Plans, Bundles & Offers – Vodafone Ireland

Vodafone has two data-featured prepaid plans: Pay As You Go (combo) & Add-Ons.

I will list all the prices in EUR (Euro).

To convert EUR to your currency (let's say GBP – British Pound Sterling) with up-to-date exchange rates, use the Wise Currency Converter tool.

Wise Currency Exchange Banner
© Wise
Pay As You Go – Vodafone Ireland

The Pay As You Go are combo plans with data (with 5G NR access), minutes & SMS.

The following Pay As You Go are available:

PricePlanDataOn-Net MinutesLocal/EU Minutes 1International Minutes 3On-Net SMSLocal/EU SMS 1Validity
20 EURChat Extra 110 GB“Unlimited”, 5000 minutesShared with on-net minutes allowanceN/A“Unlimited”, 5000 SMSShared with on-net SMS allowance28 days
20 EURSmart Extra20 GB“Unlimited”, 5000 minutes100 minutesN/A“Unlimited”, 5000 SMS100 SMS28 days
20 EURVodafone XUnlimited ‘@ 10 Mbps“Unlimited”, 5000 minutes100 minutes/”Unlimited”, 5000 minutes 2N/A“Unlimited”, 5000 SMS28 days
25 EURChat Extra 5G10 GB“Unlimited”, 5000 minutesShared with on-net minutes allowanceN/A“Unlimited”, 5000 SMSShared with on-net SMS allowance28 days
25 EURSmart Extra 5G20 GB“Unlimited”, 5000 minutes100 minutesN/A“Unlimited”, 5000 SMS100 SMS28 days
25 EURVodafone X 5GUnlimited ‘@ 5G speed“Unlimited”, 5000 minutes100 minutes/”Unlimited”, 5000 minutes 2N/A“Unlimited”, 5000 SMS100 SMS28 days
30 EURExtra Unlimited 5G 1Unlimited ‘@ 5G speed“Unlimited”, 5000 minutesShared with on-net minutes allowance100 minutes“Unlimited”, 5000 SMSShared with on-net SMS allowance28 days

1 for local use and calls/SMS within and to other EU/EEA member states and back to Ireland (NOT from Ireland to other EU/EEA member states)
2 100 local/EU minutes. Unlimited minutes during the weekend (Friday 15:00 – Sunday 23:59)
3 to 94 countries: Albania, Anguilla, Antigua and Barbuda, Argentina, Armenia, Australia, Austria, the Bahamas, Bahrain, Bangladesh, Barbados, Belgium, Bermuda, Brazil, Bulgaria, the Cayman Islands, Canada, Chile, China, Croatia, Cyprus, the Czech Republic, Denmark, Dominica, the Dominican Republic, Egypt, Estonia, Finland, France, Georgia, Germany, Greece, Grenada, Hong Kong, Hungary, Iceland, India, Indonesia, Iran, Iraq, Israel, Italy, Jamaica, Japan, Kuwait, Latvia, Lebanon, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malaysia, Malta, Mexico, Moldova, Montenegro, Montserrat, the Netherlands, New Zealand, Nigeria, Northern Ireland (fixed), Norway, Pakistan, Palestine, Peru, the Philippines, Poland, Portugal, Puerto Rico, Romania, Russia, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Saint Lucia, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Saudi Arabia, Serbia, Singapore, Slovakia, Slovenia, South Africa, South Korea, Spain, Sri Lanka, Sweden, Switzerland, Taiwan, Thailand, Trinidad and Tobago, Turkey, Turks and Caicos Islands, Ukraine, the United Kingdom, the United States, the U.S. Virgin Islands & Vietnam

Vodafone Ireland Pay As You Go Plans
© Vodafone Ireland
Add-Ons – Vodafone Ireland

The Add-Ons are combo add-ons with data (without 5G NR access), minutes & SMS. They cannot be purchased as standalone plans.

Add-Ons can be activated by texting the Activation Code to 50233:

PriceDataLocal/EU Minutes 1International Minutes 2Local/EU SMS 1ValidityActivation Code
5 EUR5 GBN/AN/AN/A28 days5DATA
5 EURN/A100 minutesN/AN/A28 days5TALK
5 EURN/AN/A100 minutesN/A28 days5INTER
15 EUR20 GBN/AN/AN/A30 daysDATA
15 EURN/A“Unlimited”, 5000 minutesN/AN/A28 daysTALK
15 EURN/AN/A400 minutesN/A28 days15INTER
15 EURN/AN/AN/A“Unlimited”, 5000 SMS28 daysTEXT

1 local use and to call/SMS other EU/EEA member states when in other EU/EEA member states and back to Ireland (NOT from Ireland to other EU/EEA member states)
2 94 countries. See list above

Vodafone Ireland Add Ons
© Vodafone Ireland
EU Roaming – Vodafone Ireland

You can use your allowances in the following EU/EEA member states without paying roaming fees:

  • Aland Islands
  • Austria
  • Azores
  • Belgium
  • Bonaire
  • Bulgaria
  • Canary Islands
  • Ceuta
  • Croatia
  • Curacao
  • Cyprus
  • Czech Republic
  • Denmark
  • Estonia
  • Finland
  • France
  • French Guiana
  • Germany
  • Gibraltar
  • Greece
  • Guadeloupe
  • Guernsey
  • Hungary
  • Iceland
  • Isle of Man
  • Italy
  • Jersey
  • Latvia
  • Liechtenstein
  • Lithuania
  • Luxembourg
  • Madeira
  • Malta
  • Martinique
  • Mayotte
  • Melilla
  • Netherlands
  • Norway
  • Poland
  • Portugal
  • Réunion 
  • Romania
  • Saba
  • Saint Barthelemy
  • Saint Kitts and Nevis
  • Saint Martin
  • Sint Eustatius
  • Sint Maarten
  • Slovakia
  • Slovenia
  • Spain
  • Suriname
  • Sweden
  • Switzerland
  • United Kingdom
  • Vatican City

As Vodafone does not have dedicated EU/EEA roaming allowances, you can use your full (unlimited) allowance without restrictions in other EU/EEA member states.

APN/Internet Settings – Vodafone Ireland

  • Name: Vodafone Internet
  • APN: live.vodafone.com

Note: leave anything not mentioned above untouched.

Jump back to the Table of Contents.

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Three Ireland

Three (3) Logo
© Three

Three Ireland, just Three and sometimes written as just 3, is the second-largest mobile operator in Ireland.

Three is known for offering free international roaming in many countries worldwide before the EU roaming regulations – just like O2.

Three, as a company, is active in Austria, Denmark, Hong Kong, Indonesia, Macau, Sweden & the United Kingdom.

Three uses the following frequencies:

  • 2G: 900 MHz & 1800 MHz
  • 3G: 900 MHz & 2100 MHz
  • 4G/LTE: 800 MHz (Band 20) & 1800 MHz (Band 3)
  • 5G NR: 1800 MHz (n3) & 3500 MHz (n78)

This is what you will learn about Three:

* Coverage
* How to Get a Three SIM Card & SIM Card Price
* Topping Up Options & Methods + Balance Check
* Plans & Packages
* APN/Internet Settings

Coverage – Three Ireland

Three has extensive coverage throughout Ireland.

It is also the only mobile operator offering 5G NR to prepaid customers.

However, that is at an additional cost.

Below is Three Ireland's coverage map produced by Speedtest:

However, click here to see Three Ireland's official coverage map.

SIM Card Price – Three Ireland

Three SIM cards are technically free in Three stores. However, you are expected to top up or purchase a plan on the spot. They are also available at Dublin Airport (terminal 1 only).

Three Ireland SIM Card
© Three Ireland
  • Find out how much SIM cards cost in every country, including data-only SIM cards and tourist SIM cards, offered by each mobile operator + information about starter benefits (lookup tool)
SIM Card Prices Worldwide Tool by Phone Travel Wiz

If you wish to get an eSIM for Ireland without personal detail capturing, you can get unlimited data eSIMs from Holafly (eight options):

  1. Unlimited/5 days very popular with Phone Travel Wiz readers
  2. Unlimited/7 days very popular with Phone Travel Wiz readers
  3. Unlimited/10 daysmost popular with Phone Travel Wiz readers
  4. Unlimited/15 days
  5. Unlimited/20 days
  6. Unlimited/30 days
  7. Unlimited/60 days
  8. Unlimited/90 days

Note: Phone Travel Wiz reader popularity ranking was updated in September based on data up to the 7th of September (2023 data only).

Phone Travel Wiz x Holafly Banner

The best part is that you can get 5% off using code PHONETRAVELWIZ on each Holafly eSIM purchase!

No idea what or who Holafly is? Check out my Holafly review, where I share my hands-on experience after using its eSIMs in more than ten countries over two years.

Holafly General Review & In-Depth Analysis by Phone Travel Wiz

If you plan on visiting other neighboring European nations, consider the Holafly Europe eSIM to be used in 33 European countries, also with unlimited data, with seven variants:

  1. Unlimited/5 daysmost popular with Phone Travel Wiz readers
  2. Unlimited/7 days
  3. Unlimited/10 daysvery popular with Phone Travel Wiz readers
  4. Unlimited/15 daysvery popular with Phone Travel Wiz readers
  5. Unlimited/20 days
  6. Unlimited/30 days
  7. Unlimited/60 days
  8. Unlimited/90 days

Note: Phone Travel Wiz reader popularity ranking was updated in September based on data up to the 7th of September (2023 data only).

Holafly Europe eSIM Eligible Countries Map Infographic by Phone Travel Wiz (August 2023 Version)

Do you think the map above is nice, but you want a country list instead (because you do not recognize the countries on a map🗿)? You can find it in my Holafly review!

Remember to use code PHONETRAVELWIZ for 5% off each Holafly purchase!

Many more travel eSIMs will perform well in Ireland

You can read about them in my Best Ireland eSIMs Compared guide for an in-depth comparison.

Buying an eSIM for Ireland Guide (logos of Holafly, Airalo, Three (3), Eir, Nomad, SimOptions, Vodafone, AIS, Eurolink, Alosim & Fáilte)
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Top-Up, Recharge & Balance Check – Three Ireland

Three top-up vouchers are sold in Three stores and many other establishments, such as kiosks, gas stations, and grocery stores.

To top up your Three SIM card, text TOP UP VoucherCode to 50272 or call 1744 and follow the instructions.

For example, if your voucher code is 123456, you would text TOP UP 123456 to 50272.

You can also recharge online with (international) debit and credit cards.

Text BALANCE to 50272 to check your Three balance.

You can also top up and check your balance on the My3 app (Android/iOS).

Three Ireland My3 App
© Three Ireland

Packages, Plans, Bundles & Offers – Three Ireland

Three has two data-featured prepaid plans: Prepay SIM Only (combo) & Boost It (add-ons).

I will list all the prices in EUR (Euro).

To convert EUR to your currency (let's say GBP – British Pound Sterling) with up-to-date exchange rates, use the Wise Currency Converter tool.

Wise Currency Exchange Banner
© Wise
Prepay SIM Only – Three Ireland

The Prepay SIM Only plans are combo bundles with data (with 5G NR access), minutes & SMS.

Prepay SIM Only plans get automatically activated when you reload the corresponding amount.

For example, if you refill 20 EUR, the 20 EUR plan gets activated automatically.

However, you can also use the My3 app to purchase plans:

PricePlanDataEU/EEA DataOn-Net MinutesLocal/EU Minutes 1International Minutes 2Local/EU SMS 1Validity
15 EUR3 Prepay 151 GB1 GBUnlimitedN/AN/A60 SMS28 days
20 EUR3 Prepay 20Unlimited19 GB“Unlimited”, 3000 minutes60 minutesN/A“Unlimited”, 3000 SMS28 days
30 EUR3 Prepay 30Unlimited28 GB“Unlimited”, 3000 minutes“Unlimited”, 10 000 minutes30 minutes“Unlimited”, 3000 SMS28 days

1 local use and to call/SMS other EU/EEA member states when in other EU/EEA member states and back to Ireland (NOT from Ireland to other EU/EEA member states)
2 to 64 countries: Andorra, Australia, Austria, Belgium, Brazil, Bulgaria, Canada, Canary Islands, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Egypt, Estonia, Finland, France, French Guiana, Germany, Greece, Guadeloupe, Hong Kong, Hungary, Iceland, India, Israel, Italy, Japan, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Martinique, Mayotte, Mexico, Morocco, Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Pakistan, Philippines, Poland, Portugal, Réunion, Romania, Russia, Saint Barthélemy, Saint Martin, Saint Pierre and Miquelon, Saudi Arabia, Singapore, Slovakia, Slovenia, South Africa, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Thailand, Turkey, United Arab Emirates (UAE), United Kingdom, United States, Vatican City & Vietnam

Unlike some of Three's competitors, unlimited data means truly unlimited WITHOUT fair-use limit for the 3 Prepay 20 & 3 Prepay 30 plans.

Remember, you can get access to Three's 5G NR network as a prepaid customer by paying an additional 5 EUR on top of your plan's price.

Three Ireland SIM Only
© Three Ireland
Boost It – Three Ireland

The Boost It is combo add-ons with data (with 5G NR access), minutes & SMS. They cannot be purchased as standalone plans.

Boost It can be activated on the My3 app:

PricePlanDataEU/EEA Roaming MinutesLocal/EU MinutesInternational Minutes Local/EU SMSValidity
5 EUR3 Prepay 151 GBN/AN/AN/AN/AUntil plan expires
5 EUR3 Prepay 15N/AN/AN/A100 minutesN/AUntil plan expires
5 EUR3 Prepay 15N/AN/AN/A100 minutes 1N/AUntil plan expires
5 EUR3 Prepay 20N/AN/A100 minutesN/AN/AUntil plan expires
5 EUR3 Prepay 20N/AN/AN/A100 minutesN/AUntil plan expires
5 EUR3 Prepay 20500 MB 1N/AN/AN/AN/AUntil plan expires
5 EUR3 Prepay 20N/AN/AN/A100 minutes 1N/AUntil plan expires
5 EUR3 Prepay 30N/AN/AN/A100 minutesN/AUntil plan expires
5 EUR3 Prepay 30N/AN/AN/A100 minutes 1N/AUntil plan expires
5 EUR3 Prepay 30500 MB 1N/AN/AN/AN/AUntil plan expires
10 EUR3 Prepay 30N/A100 minutesN/AN/AN/AUntil plan expires
10 EUR3 Prepay 30250 MB 1N/AN/AN/AN/AUntil plan expires

1 while in US or Canada only

EU Roaming – Three Ireland

You can use your allowances in the following EU/EEA member states without paying roaming fees:

  • Austria
  • Belgium
  • Bulgaria
  • Canary Islands
  • Croatia
  • Cyprus
  • Czech Republic
  • Denmark
  • Estonia
  • Finland
  • France
  • French Guiana
  • Germany
  • Greece
  • Guadeloupe
  • Hungary
  • Iceland
  • Italy
  • Latvia
  • Liechtenstein
  • Lithuania
  • Luxembourg
  • Malta
  • Martinique
  • Mayotte
  • Netherlands
  • Norway
  • Poland
  • Portugal
  • Réunion
  • Romania
  • Saint Barthélemy
  • Saint Martin
  • Saint Pierre and Miquelon
  • Slovakia
  • Slovenia
  • Spain
  • Sweden
  • Vatican City

Be aware that, in some cases, the EU/EEA roaming allowance is lower than the domestic allowances.

APN/Internet Settings – Three Ireland

  • Name: 3 Ireland
  • APN: 3ireland.ie

Note: leave anything not mentioned above untouched.

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Eir

Eir Ireland Logo
© Eir

Eir is the smallest mobile operator in Ireland.

However, it is a large player in the fixed broadband market.

Eir uses the following frequencies:

  • 2G: 900 MHz & 1800 MHz
  • 3G: 900 MHz & 2100 MHz
  • 4G/LTE: 800 MHz (Band 20) & 1800 MHz (Band 3)
  • 5G NR: 1800 MHz (n3) & 3500 MHz (n78) – not for prepaid (yet)

This is what you will learn about Eir:

* Coverage
* How to Get an Eir SIM Card & SIM Card Price
* Topping Up Options & Methods + Balance Check
* Plans & Packages
* APN/Internet Settings

Coverage – Eir

Eir has extensive coverage throughout Ireland.

4G/LTE coverage can be found in many in the country.

Below is Eir's coverage map produced by Speedtest:

However, click here to see Eir's official coverage map.

SIM Card Price – Eir

Eir SIM cards are technically free in Eir stores. However, you are expected to top up or purchase a plan on the spot.

Eir Ireland SIM Card
© Eir
  • Find out how much SIM cards cost in every country, including data-only SIM cards and tourist SIM cards, offered by each mobile operator + information about starter benefits (lookup tool)
SIM Card Prices Worldwide Tool by Phone Travel Wiz

If you wish to get an eSIM for Ireland without personal detail capturing, you can get eSIMs from Ireland (ten options):

  1. 1 GB/7 days (powered by two different providers with different prices) (price dropped)
  2. 3 GB/30 days (powered by two different providers with different prices) (price dropped) – very popular with Phone Travel Wiz readers
  3. 5 GB/30 days (powered by two different providers with different prices) (price dropped) – most popular with Phone Travel Wiz readers
  4. 10 GB/30 days (powered by two different providers with different prices) (price dropped) – very popular with Phone Travel Wiz readers
  5. 15 GB/30 days (price dropped)
  6. 20 GB/30 days (powered by two different providers with different prices) (price dropped)

Note: Phone Travel Wiz reader popularity ranking was updated in September based on data up to the 13th of September (2023 data only).

The best part is that you can get 3 USD/2.70 EUR/2.40 GBP/4.05 CAD off using code ADU123 on your first Nomad eSIM purchase!

No idea what or who Nomad is? Check out my Nomad review, where I share my hands-on experience after using its eSIMs in more than 25 countries over two years.

Nomad General Review & In-Depth Analysis by Phone Travel Wiz

If you plan on visiting other neighboring European nations, consider the Nomad Europe eSIM to be used in 30 or 35 European countries, depending on the plan, with 14 variants:

  1. 1 GB/7 days (30 countries) (price dropped)
  2. 1 GB/7 days (35 countries)
  3. 3 GB/15 days (30 countries) (price dropped)
  4. 3 GB/30 days (35 countries) (price dropped)
  5. 5 GB/30 days (30 countries) (price dropped) – very popular with Phone Travel Wiz readers
  6. 5 GB/30 days (35 countries) (price dropped) – very popular with Phone Travel Wiz readers
  7. 10 GB/30 days (30 countries) (price dropped) – very popular with Phone Travel Wiz readers
  8. 10 GB/30 days (35 countries) (price dropped) – very popular with Phone Travel Wiz readers
  9. 15 GB/30 days (30 countries) (price dropped)
  10. 15 GB/30 days (35 countries) (price dropped)
  11. 20 GB/30 days (30 countries) (price dropped) – most popular with Phone Travel Wiz readers
  12. 20 GB/30 days (35 countries) (price dropped) – most popular with Phone Travel Wiz readers
  13. 30 GB/30 days (35 countries) (price dropped)
  14. 40 GB/30 days (35 countries) (price dropped)

Note: Phone Travel Wiz reader popularity ranking was updated in September based on data up to the 13th of September (2023 data only).

Nomad Europe eSIM Eligible Countries Map Infographic by Phone Travel Wiz (August 2023 Version)

Remember to use code ADU123 for 3 USD/2.70 EUR/2.40 GBP/4.05 CAD off your first Nomad purchase!

I have used the Nomad Europe eSIM in eight countries so far, and my goal is to test it in all supported countries.

Nomad Europe eSIM Review by Phone Travel Wiz

Many more travel eSIMs will perform well in Ireland

You can read about them in my Best Ireland eSIMs Compared guide for an in-depth comparison.

Buying an eSIM for Ireland Guide (logos of Holafly, Airalo, Three (3), Eir, Nomad, SimOptions, Vodafone, AIS, Eurolink, Alosim & Fáilte)
Support Me on Ko-Fi Orange

Top-Up, Recharge & Balance Check – Eir

Eir top-up vouchers are sold in Eir stores and many other establishments, such as kiosks, gas stations, and grocery stores.

To top up your Eir SIM card, text the VoucherCode to 50103 or call 1741 and follow the instructions.

For example, if your voucher code is 123456, you would text 123456 to 50103

You can also recharge online with (international) debit and credit cards.

Text Balance to 50104 or dial *#100# to check your Eir balance.

Packages, Plans, Bundles & Offers – Eir

Eir has two data-featured prepaid plans: Prepay Offers (combo) & Prepay Add-ons.

I will list all the prices in EUR (Euro).

To convert EUR to your currency (let's say GBP – British Pound Sterling) with up-to-date exchange rates, use the Wise Currency Converter tool.

Wise Currency Exchange Banner
© Wise
Prepay Offers – Eir

Prepay Offers are combo plans with data (with 5G NR access), minutes & SMS.

Prepay Offers can be activated by texting the Activation Code to 50104:

PriceDataOn-Net MinutesLocal/EU Minutes 2On-Net SMSLocal/EU SMS 2ValidityActivation Code
10 EURN/AUnlimited, 3000 minutesShared with on-net minutes allowanceN/AN/A14 days10 calls
10 EUR100 MB“Unlimited”, 3000 minutesN/A“Unlimited”, 3000 SMSN/A14 daystalktext
20 EURN/A“Unlimited”, 3000 minutesShared with on-net minutes allowance“Unlimited”, 3000 SMSShared with on-net SMS allowance28 days20 calls and text
20 EUR“Unlimited”, 120 GB 1N/AN/A“Unlimited”, 3000 SMSShared with on-net SMS allowance28 days20 text and data
20 EUR“Unlimited”, 120 GB 1“Unlimited”, 3000 minutesShared with on-net minutes allowanceN/AN/A28 days20 calls and data
30 EUR“Unlimited”, 120 GB 1“Unlimited”, 3000 minutesShared with on-net minutes allowance“Unlimited”, 3000 SMSShared with on-net SMS allowance28 days30 UNLIMITED

1120 GB is not a hard cap. However, Eir reserves the right to review your account and terminate it if they feel like it. It is best to stay below 120 GB to avoid any troubles
2 local use and to call/SMS other EU/EEA member states when in other EU/EEA member states and back to Ireland (NOT from Ireland to other EU/EEA member states)

Eir Ireland Prepay Offers Plans
© Eir
Prepay Add-ons – Eir

Prepay Add-ons are, as the name implies, add-ons (with 5G NR access).

PricePlanDataValidityAuto-Renews?Activation Code
4.99 EUR1 GB Booster1 GB28 daysNobooster1gb
4.99 EUREir Prepay 1 GB Bundle1 GB28 daysYessub Internet 1GB
9.99 EUR10 GB Booster10 GB28 daysNobooster10GB
9.99 EUREir Prepaid 10 GB Bundle10 GB28 daysYesdata10GB
EU Roaming – Eir

You can use your allowances in the following EU/EEA member states without paying roaming fees:

  • Austria
  • Balearic Islands
  • Belgium
  • Bulgaria
  • Canary Islands
  • Channel Islands
  • Croatia
  • Cyprus
  • Czech Republic
  • Denmark
  • Estonia
  • Finland
  • Germany
  • Gibraltar
  • Greece
  • Hungary
  • Iceland
  • Isle of Man
  • Italy
  • Latvia
  • Liechtenstein
  • Lithuania
  • Luxembourg
  • Malta
  • Monaco
  • Netherlands
  • Northern Ireland
  • Norway
  • Poland
  • Portugal
  • Romania
  • San Marino
  • Slovakia
  • Slovenia
  • Spain
  • Sweden
  • United Kingdom
  • Vatican City

Be aware that, in some cases, the EU/EEA roaming allowance is lower than the domestic allowances.

APN/Internet Settings – Eir

  • Name: eir Mobile Data
  • APN: data.myeirmobile.ie

Note: leave anything not mentioned above untouched.

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AnPost Mobile

AnPost Ireland Logo
© AnPost

AnPost Mobile is a Vodafone Ireland MVNO. It is the mobile brand by the national post office AnPost.

In the past, it used to be known as Postfone.

To learn about AnPost Mobile’s frequencies, jump back to Vodafone Ireland's frequencies.

This is what you will learn about AnPost Mobile:

* Coverage
* How to Get an AnPost Mobile SIM Card & SIM Card Price
* Topping Up Options & Methods + Balance Check
* Plans & Packages
* APN/Internet Settings

Coverage – AnPost Mobile

AnPost Mobile is a Vodafone Ireland MVNO, meaning AnPost Mobile uses the Vodafone Ireland network and does not have its own mobile infrastructure.

To find out what to expect in terms of coverage with AnPost Mobile, jump to the Vodafone Ireland Coverage section.

Tesco Mobile customers do not have access to Vodafone Ireland's 5G NR network.

SIM Card Price – AnPost Mobile

You can buy an AnPost Mobile SIM card for 15 EUR (together with the €15 Unlimited Prepay Plan – 50 GB, 3000 minutes & 3000 SMS) in AnPost post offices

  • Find out how much SIM cards cost in every country, including data-only SIM cards and tourist SIM cards, offered by each mobile operator + information about starter benefits (lookup tool)
SIM Card Prices Worldwide Tool by Phone Travel Wiz

If you wish to get an eSIM for Ireland without personal detail capturing, you can get Ireland Fáilte eSIMs from Airalo (six options):

Ireland Fáilte eSIM Airalo
© Airalo
  1. 1 GB/7 days
  2. 2 GB/15 days (new) – very popular with Phone Travel Wiz readers
  3. 3 GB/30 days
  4. 5 GB/30 daysmost popular with Phone Travel Wiz readers
  5. 10 GB/30 daysvery popular with Phone Travel Wiz readers
  6. 20 GB/30 days (new)

Note: Phone Travel Wiz reader popularity ranking was updated in September based on data up to the 7th of September (2023 data only).

No idea what or who Airalo is? Check out my Airalo review, where I share my hands-on experience after using its eSIMs in more than 25 countries over four years.

Airalo General Review & In-Depth Analysis by Phone Travel Wiz

If you plan on visiting other countries in Europe and others in other regions or continents, consider the Airalo Discover Global eSIM to be used in 84+ countries worldwide with 12 variants:

  1. 1 GB/7 days
  2. 1 GB/7 days
  3. 2 GB/15 days
  4. 2 GB/15 days
  5. 3 GB/15 days
  6. 3 GB/15 days
  7. 5 GB/30 daysvery popular with Phone Travel Wiz readers
  8. 5 GB/30 days
  9. 10 GB/60 days
  10. 10 GB/60 days
  11. 20 GB/180 daysmost popular with Phone Travel Wiz readers
  12. 20 GB/180 daysvery popular with Phone Travel Wiz readers

Note: Phone Travel Wiz reader popularity ranking was updated in September based on data up to the 7th of September (2023 data only).

Airalo Discover eSIM Eligible Countries Map Infographic by Phone Travel Wiz (August 2023 Version)

Do you think the map above is nice, but you want a country list instead (because you do not recognize the countries on a map🗿)? You can find it in my Airalo review!

From 2023 on, my goal is to test this eSIM in all eligible countries.

Airalo Discover Global eSIM Review by Phone Travel Wiz

Many more travel eSIMs will perform well in Ireland

You can read about them in my Best Ireland eSIMs Compared guide for an in-depth comparison.

Buying an eSIM for Ireland Guide (logos of Holafly, Airalo, Three (3), Eir, Nomad, SimOptions, Vodafone, AIS, Eurolink, Alosim & Fáilte)
Support Me on Ko-Fi Orange

Top-Up, Recharge & Balance Check – AnPost Mobile

AnPost top-up vouchers are sold in AnPost post offices and many other establishments with the Postpoint or Payzone logo, such as Centra, Gala, Londis, Mace & Spar.

To top up your AnPost SIM card, call 1747 and follow the instructions.

You can also recharge online with (international) debit and credit cards.

Dial *200# or call 1747 to check your AnPost Mobile balance.

Packages, Plans, Bundles & Offers – AnPost Mobile

AnPost Mobile has only one data-featured prepaid plan: €15 Unlimited Prepay Plan (combo). It includes data (without 5G NR access), minutes & SMS.

I will list all the prices in EUR (Euro).

To convert EUR to your currency (let's say GBP – British Pound Sterling) with up-to-date exchange rates, use the Wise Currency Converter tool.

Wise Currency Exchange Banner
© Wise

It cost 15 EUR and featured limited data (25 GB), unlimited local minutes (3000 minutes) & unlimited SMS (3000 SMS) – all valid for 28 days.

This plan is activated automatically when you buy your AnPost Mobile SIM card, and it is the only plan available.

When you need to renew your plan, recharge at least 15 EUR in one go.

PriceDataEU/EEA DataLocal/EU Minutes 1, 2Local/EU SMS 1, 2Validity
15 EUR25 GB25 GB“Unlimited”, 3000 minutes“Unlimited”, 3000 SMS28 days

1 local use and to call/SMS other EU/EEA member states when in other EU/EEA member states and back to Ireland (NOT from Ireland to other EU/EEA member states)
2 250 minutes & 250 SMS when roaming in the EU

AnPost Mobile Ireland €15 Unlimited Prepay Plan
© AnPost
EU Roaming – AnPost Mobile

You can use your allowances in the following EU/EEA member states without paying roaming fees:

  • Aland Islands
  • Austria
  • Azores
  • Belgium
  • Bulgaria
  • Canary Islands
  • Croatia
  • Ceuta
  • Cyprus
  • Czech Republic
  • Denmark
  • Estonia
  • Finland
  • France
  • French Guiana
  • Germany
  • Greece
  • Guadeloupe
  • Hungary
  • Iceland
  • Italy
  • Latvia
  • Liechtenstein
  • Lithuania
  • Luxembourg
  • Madeira
  • Malta
  • Martinique
  • Mayotte
  • Melilla
  • Netherlands
  • Norway
  • Poland
  • Portugal
  • Réunion
  • Romania
  • Saint Martin
  • Slovakia
  • Slovenia
  • Spain
  • Sweden
  • Switzerland
  • United Kingdom
  • Vatican City

Be aware that the EU/EEA roaming allowance is lower than the domestic allowances.

APN/Internet Settings – AnPost Mobile

  • Name: Postmobile
  • APN: isp.postfone.ie

Note: leave anything not mentioned above untouched.

Jump back to the Table of Contents.

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Lycamobile Ireland

Lycamobile Logo New 2021
© Lycamobile

Lycamobile Ireland, just Lycamobile, is a Three Ireland MVNO.

Lycamobile, as a brand, is known for offering low rates for international calls abroad, and it is active in various other European countries.

To learn about Lycamobile’s frequencies, jump back to Three Ireland’s frequencies.

This is what you will learn about Lycamobile:

* Coverage
* How to Get a Three SIM Card & SIM Card Price
* Topping Up Options & Methods + Balance Check
* Plans & Packages
* APN/Internet Settings

Coverage – Lycamobile Ireland

Lycamobile is a Three Ireland MVNO, meaning Lycamobile uses the Three Ireland network and does not have its own mobile infrastructure.

To find out what to expect in terms of coverage with Lycamobile, jump to the Three Ireland Coverage section.

Lycamobile customers do not have access to Three Ireland's 5G NR network.

SIM Card Price – Lycamobile Ireland

Lycamobile SIM cards are available at variable pricing, from free SIM cards requiring a top-up to SIM cards sold together with a plan, in various stores, such as grocery stores, convenience stores, and electronic shops.

Lycamobile SIM Card
© Lycamobile
  • Find out how much SIM cards cost in every country, including data-only SIM cards and tourist SIM cards, offered by each mobile operator + information about starter benefits (lookup tool)
SIM Card Prices Worldwide Tool by Phone Travel Wiz

If you wish to get an eSIM for Ireland without personal detail capturing, you can get unlimited data eSIMs from Holafly (eight options):

  1. Unlimited/5 days very popular with Phone Travel Wiz readers
  2. Unlimited/7 days very popular with Phone Travel Wiz readers
  3. Unlimited/10 daysmost popular with Phone Travel Wiz readers
  4. Unlimited/15 days
  5. Unlimited/20 days
  6. Unlimited/30 days
  7. Unlimited/60 days
  8. Unlimited/90 days

Note: Phone Travel Wiz reader popularity ranking was updated in September based on data up to the 7th of September (2023 data only).

Phone Travel Wiz x Holafly Banner

The best part is that you can get 5% off using code PHONETRAVELWIZ on each Holafly eSIM purchase!

No idea what or who Holafly is? Check out my Holafly review, where I share my hands-on experience after using its eSIMs in more than ten countries over two years.

Holafly General Review & In-Depth Analysis by Phone Travel Wiz

If you plan on visiting other countries in Europe and others in other regions or continents, consider the Nomad Global eSIM to be used in 109/139 countries worldwide with six variants:

  1. 1 GB/7 days (powered by two different providers with different prices) – very popular with Phone Travel Wiz readers
  2. 3 GB/30 days (powered by two different providers with different prices) – very popular with Phone Travel Wiz readers
  3. 5 GB/30 days (powered by two different providers with different prices) – most popular with Phone Travel Wiz readers

Note: Phone Travel Wiz reader popularity ranking was updated in September based on data up to the 13th of September (2023 data only).

Nomad Global eSIM Eligible Countries Map Infographic by Phone Travel Wiz (August 2023 Version)

Do you think the map above is nice, but you want a country list instead (because you do not recognize the countries on a map🗿)? You can find it in my Nomad review!

Remember to use code ADU123 for 3 USD/2.70 EUR/2.40 GBP/4.05 CAD off your first Nomad purchase!

Many more travel eSIMs will perform well in Ireland

You can read about them in my Best Ireland eSIMs Compared guide for an in-depth comparison.

Buying an eSIM for Ireland Guide (logos of Holafly, Airalo, Three (3), Eir, Nomad, SimOptions, Vodafone, AIS, Eurolink, Alosim & Fáilte)

Dial *132# to see your Lycamobile phone number.

Support Me on Ko-Fi Orange

Top-Up, Recharge & Balance Check – Lycamobile Ireland

Lycamobile top-up vouchers are sold in various stores, including grocery stores, kiosks & gas stations throughout Ireland.

To top up your Lycamobile SIM card, dial *131*VoucherCode# or call 1747 and follow the instructions.

For example, if your voucher code is 123456, you would dial *131*123456#.

You can also recharge online with (international) debit and credit cards.

Dial *131# or call 1747 to check your Lycamobile balance.

Although Lycamobile has apps (Android/iOS), they have performance issues.

Personally, its Android app has worked well for me, but many other users have problems with it to this day.

Lycamobile App
© Lycamobile

Packages, Plans, Bundles & Offers – Lycamobile Ireland

Lycamobile has two data-featured prepaid plans: National Bundles (combo) and Data Bundles.

I will list all the prices in EUR (Euro).

To convert EUR to your currency (let's say GBP – British Pound Sterling) with up-to-date exchange rates, use the Wise Currency Converter tool.

Wise Currency Exchange Banner
© Wise
National Bundles – Lycamobile Ireland

The National Bundles are combo plans with data (with 5G NR access), minutes & SMS.

Although the name suggests that these bundles can only be used in Ireland, they can also be used in other EU/EEA member states without being charged roaming rates.

The following National Bundles are available. Which can be activated by dialing the Activation Code:

PricePlanDataEU/EEA DataOn-Net MinutesLocal MinutesInternational MinutesOn-Net SMSLocal SMSValidityActivation Code
10 EURNational S5 GB5 GBUnlimited500 minutesN/AUnlimited500 SMS30 days*139*2001#
15 EURIreland Plus25 GB 113.60 GBUnlimited 2UnlimitedN/AUnlimited 2Unlimited30 days*139*2015#
20 EURGo UnlimitedUnlimited18.10 GBUnlimited 2Unlimited100 minutes 3Unlimited 2Unlimited30 days*139*9020#
25 EURUnlimited PlusUnlimited30 GBUnlimitedUnlimitedUnlimited 3UnlimitedUnlimited30 days*139*2005#

1 +5GB extra data
2 also to Lycamobile Poland and Lycamobile Romania
3 to 34 countries: Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Canada, China, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hong Kong, Hungary, India, Ireland, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, United Kingdom & United States

Lycamobile Ireland National Bundles Plans
© Lycamobile
Data Bundles – Lycamobile Ireland

The Data Bundles are, as the name implies, data plans (with 5G NR access).

The following Data Bundles are available. Which can be activated by dialing the Activation Code:

PricePlanDataEU/EEA DataValidityActivation Code
4.99 EURData XS3 GB3 GB30 days*139*90350#
6.99 EURData S5 GB5 GB30 days*139*90500#
9.99 EURData M10 GB9.05 GB30 days*139*91000#
13 EURData L20 GB11.75 GB30 days*139*95000#
Lycamobile Ireland Data Bundles Plans
© Lycamobile
EU Roaming – Lycamobile Ireland

You can use your allowances in the following EU/EEA member states without paying roaming fees:

  • Austria
  • Belgium
  • Belgium
  • Croatia
  • Cyprus
  • Czech Republic
  • Denmark
  • Estonia
  • Finland
  • France
  • Germany
  • Greece
  • Hungary
  • Iceland
  • Ireland
  • Latvia
  • Liechtenstein
  • Lithuania
  • Luxembourg
  • Malta
  • Netherlands
  • Norway
  • Poland
  • Portugal
  • Romania
  • Slovenia
  • Slovakia
  • Spain
  • Sweden
  • United Kingdom

Be aware that, in some cases, the EU/EEA roaming allowance is lower than the domestic allowances.

APN/Internet Settings – Lycamobile Ireland

  • Name: lycamobile
  • APN:data.lycamobile.ie
  • Username: lmie
  • Password: plus

Note: leave anything not mentioned above untouched.

Jump back to the Table of Contents.

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Tesco Mobile Ireland

Tesco Mobile Ireland Logo
© Tesco Mobile Ireland

Tesco Mobile Ireland, just Tesco Mobile, is a Three Ireland MVNO. It is the mobile brand by the grocery chain Tesco.

To learn about Tesco Mobile’s frequencies, jump back to Three Ireland’s frequencies.

This is what you will learn about Tesco Mobile:

* Coverage
* How to Get a Tesco Mobile SIM Card & SIM Card Price
* Topping Up Options & Methods + Balance Check
* Plans & Packages
* APN/Internet Settings

Coverage – Tesco Mobile Ireland

Tesco Mobile is a Three Ireland MVNO, meaning Tesco Mobile uses the Three Ireland network and does not have its own mobile infrastructure.

To find out what to expect in terms of coverage with Tesco Mobile, jump to the Three Ireland Coverage section.

Tesco Mobile customers do not have access to Three Ireland's 5G NR network.

SIM Card Price – Tesco Mobile Ireland

You can buy a Tesco Mobile SIM card for 10 EUR or 15 EUR in Tesco stores. It includes the Prepay SIM Only plan, worth 15 EUR, with 15 GB, 10 000 local minutes & 3000 on-net SMS – all valid for 28 days.

  • Find out how much SIM cards cost in every country, including data-only SIM cards and tourist SIM cards, offered by each mobile operator + information about starter benefits (lookup tool)
SIM Card Prices Worldwide Tool by Phone Travel Wiz

If you wish to get an eSIM for Ireland without personal detail capturing, you can get eSIMs from Ireland (ten options):

  1. 1 GB/7 days (powered by two different providers with different prices) (price dropped)
  2. 3 GB/30 days (powered by two different providers with different prices) (price dropped) – very popular with Phone Travel Wiz readers
  3. 5 GB/30 days (powered by two different providers with different prices) (price dropped) – most popular with Phone Travel Wiz readers
  4. 10 GB/30 days (powered by two different providers with different prices) (price dropped) – very popular with Phone Travel Wiz readers
  5. 15 GB/30 days (price dropped)
  6. 20 GB/30 days (powered by two different providers with different prices) (price dropped)

Note: Phone Travel Wiz reader popularity ranking was updated in September based on data up to the 13th of September (2023 data only).

The best part is that you can get 3 USD/2.70 EUR/2.40 GBP/4.05 CAD off using code ADU123 on your first Nomad eSIM purchase!

No idea what or who Nomad is? Check out my Nomad review, where I share my hands-on experience after using its eSIMs in more than 25 countries over two years.

Nomad General Review & In-Depth Analysis by Phone Travel Wiz

If you plan on visiting other neighboring European nations, consider the Airalo Eurolink eSIM to be used in 39 European countries with six variants:

  1. 1 GB/7 days
  2. 3 GB/30 daysvery popular with Phone Travel Wiz readers
  3. 5 GB/30 daysmost popular with Phone Travel Wiz readers
  4. 10 GB/30 daysvery popular with Phone Travel Wiz readers
  5. 50 GB/90 days
  6. 100 GB/180 days

Note: Phone Travel Wiz reader popularity ranking was updated in September based on data up to the 7th of September (2023 data only).

Airalo Eurolink eSIM Eligible Countries Map Infographic by Phone Travel Wiz (August 2023 Version)

Do you think the map above is nice, but you want a country list instead (because you do not recognize the countries on a map🗿)? You can find it in my Airalo review!

By the way, you get free 5G NR access in 22 of the 39 supported countries!

I have used the Airalo Eurolink eSIM in 11 countries so far, and my goal is to test it in all supported countries.

Airalo Eurolink eSIM Review by Phone Travel Wiz

Many more travel eSIMs will perform well in Ireland

You can read about them in my Best Ireland eSIMs Compared guide for an in-depth comparison.

Buying an eSIM for Ireland Guide (logos of Holafly, Airalo, Three (3), Eir, Nomad, SimOptions, Vodafone, AIS, Eurolink, Alosim & Fáilte)
Support Me on Ko-Fi Orange

Top-Up, Recharge & Balance Check – Tesco Mobile Ireland

Tesco Mobile top-up vouchers are sold in Tesco stores and many other establishments with the Postpoint or Payzone logo, such as Centra, Gala, Londis, Mace & Spar.

To top up your Tesco Mobile SIM card, call 1747 and follow the instructions.

You can also recharge online with (international) debit and credit cards.

Dial *100# to check your Tesco Mobile balance.

You can also top up and check your balance on the My Tesco Mobile app (Android/iOS).

Tesco Mobile Ireland My Tesco Mobile App
© Tesco Mobile Ireland

Packages, Plans, Bundles & Offers – Tesco Mobile Ireland

Tesco Mobile has two data-featured prepaid plans: Prepay SIM Only Plan (combo) & Add-Ons.

I will list all the prices in EUR (Euro).

To convert EUR to your currency (let's say GBP – British Pound Sterling) with up-to-date exchange rates, use the Wise Currency Converter tool.

Wise Currency Exchange Banner
© Wise
Prepay Data Plus Plan – Tesco Mobile Ireland

The Prepay Data Plus Plan are combo plans with data (without 5G NR access), minutes & SMS.

This plan is activated automatically when you buy your Tesco Mobile SIM card, and it is the only plan available.

When you need to renew your plan, recharge at least 15 EUR in one go.

PricePlansDataEU/EEA Roaming DataLocal MinutesOn-Net MinutesOn-Net SMSLocal SMSValidity
15 EURPrepay Data Plus“Unlimited”, 100 GB13.55 GB500 minutes“Unlimited”, 3000 minutes“Unlimited”, 3000 SMS500 SMS28 days
Tesco Mobile Ireland Prepay Plans
© Tesco Mobile Ireland
Add-Ons – Tesco Mobile Ireland

The Add-Ons are combo add-ons with data (without 5G NR access), minutes & SMS. They cannot be purchased as standalone plans.

Add-Ons can be activated by texting the Activation Code to the corresponding service number:

PriceDataEU/EEA DataLocal/EU SMS 1ValidityAuto-Renews?Activation Code
0.79 EUR50 MB50 MBN/A24 hoursN/AData to 174209
2.99 EUR350 MB350 MBN/A7 daysN/AData to 174210
5 EUR1 GB1 GBN/A28 daysN/AData to 174211
5 EUR1 GB1 GBN/A28 daysYesOptIn DATA to 1744
5 EURN/AN/A100 SMS28 daysN/ATexts to 174208
10 EUR5 GB4.6 GBN/A28 daysN/AData to 174212
10 EUR5 GB4.6 GBN/A28 daysYesOptIn DATA5 to 1744
10 EURN/AN/A“Unlimited”, 5000 SMS28 daysYesOptIn TEXT to 1744

1 local use and to call/SMS other EU/EEA member states when in other EU/EEA member states and back to Ireland (NOT from Ireland to other EU/EEA member states)

Tesco Mobile Ireland Add-Ons
© Tesco Mobile Ireland
EU Roaming – Tesco Mobile Ireland

You can use your allowances in the following EU/EEA member states without paying roaming fees:

  • Austria
  • Belgium
  • Bulgaria
  • Croatia
  • Cyprus
  • Czech Republic
  • Denmark
  • Estonia
  • Finland
  • France
  • Germany
  • Greece
  • Hungary
  • Iceland
  • Ireland
  • Latvia
  • Liechtenstein
  • Lithuania
  • Luxembourg
  • Malta
  • Netherlands
  • Norway
  • Poland
  • Portugal
  • Romania
  • Slovenia
  • Slovakia
  • Spain
  • Sweden
  • United Kingdom

Be aware that, in some cases, the EU/EEA roaming allowance is lower than the domestic allowances.

APN/Internet Settings – Tesco Mobile Ireland

  • Name: Tesco Mobile
  • APN: tescomobile.liffeytelecom.com

Note: leave anything not mentioned above untouched.

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The Preferred Way to Stay Connected When Traveling in Ireland

Getting a SIM card from Vodafone or Three would do you well when considering an Irish SIM card.


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Learn About Your Phone Travel Options

You can buy local prepaid SIM cardsinternational SIM cardsmobile hotspots, or roam internationally.

Each of these options has its pros and cons. Learn more about them, and find the best option for you.

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