6 Best Prepaid SIM Cards in Ireland: Buying Guide

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 a plan purchase is required. Both AnPost Mobile and Tesco Mobile sell SIM cards for 15 EUR (together with a plan). SIM cards are also available from resellers (grocery stores) or Dublin Airport.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YQJJcZGrcMY

Cannot see the video above? Watch it on YouTube.

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.

Original publication: 13th of September 2021. Last updated: 18th of September 2021.

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Table of Contents

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 sells SIM cards too.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DATX4XcWirk

Cannot see the video above? Watch it on YouTube.

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)

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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.

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

Ireland has three Main Operators and three Mobile Virtual Network Operators (MVNOs)

• 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.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=achqanxN9Xs

Cannot see the video above? Watch it on YouTube.

To check whether your phone will work in Ireland, check out this page by Will My Phone Work (may be outdated or inaccurate at times).

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

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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SIM Card Registration in Ireland

SIM card registration, with the use of your personal information (such as your passport), is not required when buying a SIM card in Ireland.

EU Roaming in Ireland

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 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

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.

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 = 1.20 USD
• 10 EUR = 12.15 USD
• 100 EUR = 121.55 USD

For up-to-date EUR:USD exchange rates, search EUR to USD on Google, or replace USD with the currency you use.

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

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

I have saved literal THOUSANDS of Euros, my main currency, when using Transferwise abroad when traveling compared to my debit and credit cards. Open a Transferwise account FREE!

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 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 are Vodafone's coverage maps produced by the national regular – Commission for Communications Regulation (ComReg).

Here is the 2G coverage map:

Then we have the 3G coverage map:

Finally, the 4G/LTE coverage map:

Although I trust maps produced by third parties, like the national regular, much more than those made by the mobile operators themselves, I always like to compare every map with the one produced by Speedtest:

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.

Vodafone SIM cards get deactivated if there has been no activity for 20 months (no top-up for 20 months or no activity for 20 months).

However, you will face restrictions much sooner than that.

• 6 months and 7 days after the last top-up – outgoing calls and texts will be deactivated, incoming services stay active
• 8 months and 7 days after the last top-up – your number will be disconnected but can be reactivated at any time within the following 2 months by contacting Vodafone support
• 20 months after the last top-up – your number is recycled and cannot be returned to you

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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).

Packages, Plans, Bundles & Offers – Vodafone Ireland

Vodafone has two data-featured plans: Prepay SIM Only (combo) & Add-Ons (as the name implies).

Vodafone does not offer 5G NR to prepaid customers (yet).

Prepay SIM Only – Vodafone Ireland

The Prepay SIM Only plans are combo bundles with data, minutes & SMS.

Prepay SIM Only plans can be activated by texting the Activation Code to 50222:

Price	Plan	Data	Speed Restriction	Local/EU Minutes 1	International Minutes 4	Local/EU SMS 1	Validity	Activation Code
20 EUR	Chat Extra	10 GB	N/A	“Unlimited”, 5000 minutes	N/A	“Unlimited”, 5000 SMS	28 days	CHAT EXTRA
20 EUR	Smart Extra	20 GB	N/A	100 minutes 3	N/A	100 SMS 3	28 days	SMART EXTRA
20 EUR	Vodafone X	Unlimited	@ 10 Mbps	100 minutes/”Unlimited”, 5000 minutes 2	N/A	“Unlimited”, 5000 SMS	28 days	Unlimited
30 EUR	Extra Unlimited	Unlimited	@ 10 Mbps	Unlimited, 5000 minutes	100 minutes	“Unlimited”, 5000 SMS	28 days	EXULTD

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)
² 100 local/EU minutes. Unlimited minutes during the weekend (Friday 15:00 – Sunday 23:59)
³ + unlimited on-net minutes/SMS
4 to 94 countries:

Unlike some of Vodafone's competitors, unlimited data means truly unlimited WITHOUT fair-use limit for the Vodafone X and Extra Unlimited plans.

Unused data from Chat Extra and Smart Extra roll over up to the allowance of the said plan – 10 GB and 20 GB, respectively.

Add-Ons – Vodafone Ireland

The Add-Ons are, as the name implies, add-ons. They cannot be purchased as standalone plans.

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

Price	Data	Local/EU Minutes 1	International Minutes 2	Local/EU SMS 1	Validity	Activation Code
5 EUR	5 GB	N/A	N/A	N/A	28 days	5DATA
5 EUR	N/A	100 minutes	N/A	N/A	28 days	5TALK
5 EUR	N/A	N/A	100 minutes	N/A	28 days	5INTER
15 EUR	20 GB	N/A	N/A	N/A	30 days	DATA
15 EUR	N/A	“Unlimited”, 5000 minutes	N/A	N/A	28 days	TALK
15 EUR	N/A	N/A	400 minutes	N/A	28 days	15INTER
15 EUR	N/A	N/A	N/A	“Unlimited”, 5000 SMS	28 days	TEXT

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

EU Roaming – Vodafone Ireland

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

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 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 are Three's coverage maps produced by the national regular – Commission for Communications Regulation (ComReg).

Here is the 2G coverage map:

Then we have the 3G coverage map:

Finally, the 4G/LTE coverage map:

Although I trust maps produced by third parties, like the national regular, much more than those made by the mobile operators themselves, I always like to compare every map with the one produced by Speedtest:

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 SIM cards get deactivated if there has been no activity for 12 months (no top-up for 12 months or no activity for 12 months).

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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).

Packages, Plans, Bundles & Offers – Three Ireland

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

All Three plans are eligible for 5G NR for an additional 5 EUR.

Prepay SIM Only – Three Ireland

The Prepay SIM Only plans are combo bundles with data, 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:

Price	Plan	Data	EU/EEA Roaming Data	On-Net Minutes	Local/EU Minutes 1	International Minutes 2	Local/EU SMS 1	Validity
15 EUR	3 Prepay 15	1 GB	1 GB	Unlimited	N/A	N/A	60 SMS	28 days
20 EUR	3 Prepay 20	Unlimited	11 GB	“Unlimited”, 3000 minutes	60 minutes	N/A	“Unlimited”, 3000 SMS	28 days
30 EUR	3 Prepay 30	Unlimited	17 GB	“Unlimited”, 3000 minutes	“Unlimited”, 10 000 minutes	30 minutes	“Unlimited”, 3000 SMS	28 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:

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.

Boost It – Three Ireland

The Boost It plans are add-ons. They cannot be purchased as standalone plans.

Boost It can be activated on the My3 app:

Price	Data	Local/EU Minutes 1	International Minutes	Local/EU SMS 1	Validity
5 EUR	1 GB	N/A	N/A	N/A	Until plan expires
5 EUR	N/A	100 minutes	N/A	N/A	Until plan expires
5 EUR	N/A	N/A	100 minutes	N/A	Until plan expires
5 EUR	N/A	N/A	N/A	100 SMS	Until plan expires

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)

EU Roaming – Three Ireland

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

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.

Jump back to the Table of Contents.

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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 are Eir's coverage maps produced by the national regular – Commission for Communications Regulation (ComReg).

Here is the 2G coverage map:

Then we have the 3G coverage map:

Finally, the 4G/LTE coverage map:

Although I trust maps produced by third parties, like the national regular, much more than those made by the mobile operators themselves, I always like to compare every map with the one produced by Speedtest:

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 SIM cards get deactivated if there has been no activity for 150 days (no top-up for 150 days or no activity for 150 days).

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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 offers three data-featured plans:

• Simply Top Up (combo)
• Prepay Offers (combo)
• Prepay Add-Ons (as the name implies)

Eir does not offer 5G NR to prepaid customers (yet).

Click on the links above to jump to the plan you are interested in.

Simply Top Up – Eir

The Simply Top Up plans are combo bundles with credit, data, minutes & SMS.

Simply Top Up can be activated by texting the Activation Code to 50104:

Price	Credit	Data	EU/EEA Roaming Data	On-Net Minutes	On-Net SMS	Validity	Activation Code
10 EUR	10 EUR	100 MB	100 MB	Unlimited	Unlimited	14 days	talktext
20 EUR	20 EUR	1 GB	1 GB	Unlimited	Unlimited	28 days	talktext1GB

Prepay Offers – Eir

The Prepay Offers are combo plans with data, minutes & SMS.

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

Price	Data	EU/EEA Roaming Data	Local/EU Minutes 1	Local/EU SMS 1	Validity	Activation Code
10 EUR	N/A	N/A	“Unlimited”, 3000 minutes	N/A	14 days	10 calls
20 EUR	“Unlimited”, 120 GB	10.9 GB	“Unlimited”, 3000 minutes	N/A	28 days	20 calls and data
20 EUR	“Unlimited”, 120 GB	10.9 GB	N/A	“Unlimited”, 3000 SMS	28 days	20 text and data
20 EUR	N/A	N/A	“Unlimited”, 3000 minutes	“Unlimited”, 3000 SMS	28 days	20 calls and text
30 EUR 2	“Unlimited”, 120 GB 3	16.3 GB	“Unlimited”, 3000 minutes	“Unlimited”, 3000 SMS	28 days	30 UNLIMITED

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 often sold for 20 EUR instead of 30 EUR during promotions
³ 120 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

Prepay Add-Ons – Eir

The Prepay Add-Ons are, as the name implies, data-only add-ons. They cannot be purchased as standalone plans.

Prepay Add-Ons can be activated by texting the Activation Code to 50104:

Price	Plan	Data	Validity	Auto-Renews?	Activation Code
4.99 EUR	1 GB Booster	1 GB	28 days	No	booster1
4.99 EUR	Eir Prepay 1 GB Bundle	1 GB	28 days	Yes	sub Internet 1GB
9.99 EUR	10 GB Booster	10 GB	28 days	No	booster10GB
9.99 EUR	Eir Prepaid 10 GB Bundle	10 GB	28 days	Yes	data10GB

EU Roaming – Eir

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

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.

Jump back to the Table of Contents.

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AnPost Mobile

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.

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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 plan, which is the €15 Unlimited Prepay Plan.

It cost 15 EUR and featured unlimited data (50 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.

Price	Data	EU/EEA Roaming Data	Local/EU Minutes 1, 2	Local/EU SMS 1, 2	Validity
15 EUR	“Unlimited”, 50 GB	16 GB	“Unlimited”, 3000 minutes	“Unlimited”, 3000 SMS	28 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

EU Roaming – AnPost Mobile

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

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 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.

Dial *132# to see your Lycamobile phone number.

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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.

Packages, Plans, Bundles & Offers – Lycamobile Ireland

Lycamobile has four data-featured plans:

• National Bundles (combo)
• International Bundles (combo)
• Long Term Plans (combo for 3 to 12 months)
• Data Bundles (as the name implies)

Click on the links above to jump to the plan you are interested in.

National Bundles – Lycamobile Ireland

The National Bundles are combo plans with data, 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:

Price	Plan	Data	EU/EEA Roaming Data	On-Net Minutes	Local/EU Minutes 1	International Minutes	On-Net SMS	Local/EU SMS 1	Validity	Activation Code
9 EUR	National S	1 GB	1 GB	Unlimited	300 minutes	N/A	Unlimited	300 SMS	30 days	*139*2001#
15 EUR	Ireland Plus	25 GB	8 GB	Unlimited 2	Unlimited	N/A	Unlimited	Unlimited	30 days	*139*2015#
20 EUR	Go Unlimited	Unlimited	11 GB	Unlimited 2	Unlimited	100 minutes 2	Unlimited 2	Unlimited	30 days	*139*9020#

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 also to Lycamobile Poland and Romania
³ to 35 countries:

International Bundles – Lycamobile Ireland

The International Bundles are combo plans with data, minutes, and SMS.

You also get the choice for international minutes to select destinations inside and outside the EU/EEA.

Each of these bundles features various perks, which can differ a lot from plan to plan.

Because of this, it is a challenge to list all the plans and packages in an easy-to-understand overview.

You can learn more about them on the International Bundles page.

These International Bundles are available:

Price	Plan	Data	EU/EEA Roaming Data	Local/EU Minutes 1	Validity	Activation Code
10 EUR	Asia Plus	3 GB	3 GB	500 minutes	30 days	*139*501#
10 EUR	Europe Plus	5 GB	5 GB	300 minutes	30 days	*139*510#
12 EUR	International Red	1 GB	1 GB	800 minutes	30 days	*139*512#
12 EUR	Nigeria Plan	3 GB	3 GB	N/A	30 days	*139*812#
15 EUR	Eastern Europe	15 GB	8 GB	Unlimited	30 days	*139*560#
20 EUR	Asia Extra	3 GB	3 GB	1000 minutes	30 days	*139*520#

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)

Long Term Plans – Lycamobile Ireland

The Long Term Bundles are combo plans with data, minutes & SMS with validity from 3 months to 12 months.

These Long Term Plans are available:

Price	Plan	Data	EU/EEA Roaming Data	Local/EU Minutes 1	Local/EU SMS 1	Validity
21 EUR	Ireland Plan S 3 Months	1 GB/30 days (3 GB)	1 GB/30 days (3 GB)	300 minutes/30 days (900 minutes)	300 SMS/30 days (900 SMS)	90 days
39 EUR	Ireland Plan S 6 Months	1 GB/30 days (6 GB)	1 GB/30 days (6 GB)	300 minutes/30 days (1800 minutes)	300 SMS/30 days (1800 SMS)	180 days
74 EUR	Ireland Plan S 12 Months	1 GB/30 days (12 GB)	1 GB/30 days (12 GB)	300 minutes/30 days (3600 minutes)	300 SMS/30 days (3600 SMS)	360 days
35 EUR	Ireland Plan M 3 Months	25 GB/30 days (75 GB)	8 GB/30 days (24 GB)	Unlimited	Unlimited	90 days
65 EUR	Ireland Plan M 6 Months	25 GB/30 days (150 GB)	8 GB/30 days (48 GB)	Unlimited	Unlimited	180 days
123 EUR	Ireland Plan M 12 Months	25 GB/30 days (300 GB)	8 GB/30 days (96 GB)	Unlimited	Unlimited	360 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)

Data Bundles – Lycamobile Ireland

The Data Bundles are data-only plans.

The following Data Bundles are available:

Price	Plan	Data	EU/EEA Roaming Data	Validity	Activation Code
4.99 EUR	Data XS	3 GB	3 GB	30 days	*139*90350#
6.99 EUR	Data S	5 GB	4 GB	30 days	*139*90500#
9.99 EUR	Data M	10 GB	5.5 GB	30 days	*139*91000#
13 EUR	Data L	20 GB	7 GB	30 days	*139*95000#

EU Roaming – Lycamobile Ireland

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

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, 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.

[kofi]

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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).

Packages, Plans, Bundles & Offers – Tesco Mobile Ireland

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

Prepay SIM Only Plan – Tesco Mobile Ireland

The Prepay SIM Only Plan is a 15 EUR combo bundle with 15 GB of data, unlimited local minutes (10 000 minutes) & unlimited on-net SMS (3000 SMS) – all valid for 28 days.

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.

Price	Data	EU/EEA Roaming Data	Local/EU Minutes 1	On-Net SMS	Validity
15 EUR	15 GB	8.1 GB	“Unlimited”, 10 000 minutes	“Unlimited”, 3000 SMS	28 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)

Add-Ons – Tesco Mobile Ireland

The Add-Ons are, as the name suggests, add-ons. They cannot be purchased as standalone plans.

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

Price	Data	EU/EEA Roaming Data	Local/EU SMS 1	Validity	Auto-Renews?	Activation Code
0.79 EUR	50 MB	50 MB	N/A	24 hours	N/A	Data to 174209
2.99 EUR	350 MB	350 MB	N/A	7 days	N/A	Data to 174210
5 EUR	1 GB	1 GB	N/A	28 days	N/A	Data to 174211
5 EUR	1 GB	1 GB	N/A	28 days	Yes	OptIn DATA to 1744
5 EUR	N/A	N/A	100 SMS	28 days	N/A	Texts to 174208
10 EUR	5 GB	4.6 GB	N/A	28 days	N/A	Data to 174212
10 EUR	5 GB	4.6 GB	N/A	28 days	Yes	OptIn DATA5 to 1744
10 EUR	N/A	N/A	“Unlimited”, 5000 SMS	28 days	Yes	OptIn 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)

EU Roaming – Tesco Mobile Ireland

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

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.

Jump back to the Table of Contents.

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Other Ways to Stay Connected When Traveling in Ireland

The cheapest way to get online in Ireland is to get a SIM card from one of the mobile operators unless you have a EU/EEA SIM card and can roam for free in Ireland.

However, local SIM cards are not your only method of staying online when abroad.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IhLfhARWaJ0

Below are some other options to consider.

International Roaming

Roaming is the most convenient way to stay connected. You do not have to buy a new SIM card, and people at home can easily reach you on your current phone number.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0X7xGPry-Tc

However, roaming has many downsides as well. It can be insanely expensive.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kSKtHeE0rVg

Learn more about roaming.

International/Travel SIM Cards

International SIM cards or travel SIM cards are SIM cards made for travelers.

The rates charged are often lower than international roaming, but they are almost always higher than what local operators will charge you.

Get to know more about international and travel SIM cards.

Mobile Hotspots (Pocket WIFI)

Mobile hotspots, or pocket WIFI, are small devices that connect to the local operators of the country you are visiting.

Mobile hotspots are ideal for families or those traveling in a large group, as they allow you to connect multiple devices to one hotspot without the need of each traveler having to buy a SIM card.

You can either buy a mobile hotspot or rent one.

Free WIFI Networks

Nothing beats free, right? Paying nothing to stay connected may be the best option.

Until you remember that free hotspots are not available everywhere (especially when on the move) and that free connections are often extremely slow.

Just make sure to protect your internet traffic with a VPN when connected to open WIFI connections. It is worth it.

The Preferred Way to Stay Connected When Traveling in Ireland

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

Local Prepaid SIM Cards in Other European Countries

Visiting other countries in Europe? Check out my Europe SIM card buying guide, covering other European nations, such as:

Going to other places around the world? Then you should also check out my sim card buying guides for other destinations around the world.

Next Steps to Enhance Your Travel Experiences

Looking for the next steps to enhance your phone travel experiences? Here is what to do:

Support Phone Travel Wiz

It takes a lot of time to analyze, translate, and review the SIM card options worldwide (especially to test them out).

Your support helps me keep producing impartial content by eliminating the need to recommend international SIM cards as the best local SIM card (but some of them CAN be useful)

Every Ko-Fi donation, one-time or monthly, helps me to spend more time creating local SIM card buying guides.

Check Out My Resource Page

Looking for the best companies and gadgets to enhance your travel experience? Check out my travel resources page for the best companies to use when you travel!

Save money with international SIM cards, on plane tickets, bus rides, cruises, and accommodation.

Besides that, I also list services and items I use to make my life easier – and I believe they will help you too!

Start Your Own Online Business – Make Money While Traveling

Do you want to learn how I started an online business that allows me to generate income while traveling?

In my starting an online business guide, I tell you which tools, services, and products I have for this site and my YouTube channel.

If I can start a business about something I am passionate about (phone travel), then you can do it too!

Learn About Your Phone Travel Options

You can buy local prepaid SIM cards, international SIM cards, mobile hotspots, or roam internationally.

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

Phone Travel Tips, Tricks & Hacks

I have written many articles with tips and hacks to save money on mobile costs while abroad. You surely want to check them out!

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Let's Be Social

Did you know that I have a YouTube channel covering everything you need to know about traveling with your phone? A lot of useful videos are uploaded multiple times a week, and you do not want to miss out on them!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xJrV0ZZBPv8

Learn More About Who Adu Actually Is

Who is the guy behind Phone Travel Wiz? Well, find out on the Ernest Adu about page!