Samoa – often grouped or confused with American Samoa – used to be known as Western Samoa until 1997. Before that, the country was under New Zealand rule until (Western) Samoa declared independence.
Samoa is probably the country with the most generous visa policy – no visa is needed to enter the country. Anyone from any nationality can stay in the country visa-free for 60 days (except for US nationals living in American Samoa – they need to apply first). Those from the European Union (or European Economic Area) can stay visa-free for 90 days (in any 180-day period).
Like most Pacific nation islands, Samoa has a lot of stunning nature to see and explore. Fantastic resorts and beaches. And, of course, clear waters – I bet you will share you experiences on Instagram with #GoodLife (at least, I know I would).
The thing is, browsing and posting on Instagram can consume a lot of data, especially if you use the app a lot. This is usually not a concern if you have a reasonable data plan. However, international roaming is not included in most regular plans. Moreover, international roaming can be expensive.
If you are not careful, you could get a roaming bill in the hundreds, thousands, or even millions (depending on your currency, of course), which is certainly not worth it.
That is why you should get a local prepaid SIM card, like a Samoan one, so that you can take advantage of local rates. Luckily for you, you are in for a treat in Samoa.
You can get a Samoan SIM card for free as a tourist or traveler from Vodafone or Digicel. However, you will be encouraged to buy a plan costing at least 20 WST (8 USD). Regular SIM cards are available for 5 WST (2 USD) or 10 WST (4 USD). A data plan with 7 GB will cost you at least 11 WST (4.40 USD).
Cannot see the video above? Watch it here
or on YouTube.
Those are genuinely affordable prices, especially compared to the rest of the region. Moreover, Samoa is one of the 20 countries with the lowest mobile data rates. Additionally, coverage and speeds have significantly improved over the years.
So you better grab yourself a Samoan SIM card to stay connected at affordable prices.
In this guide, I will go over everything you need to know about buying a SIM card in Samoa. Let's get started, shall we?
Original publication: 19th of January 2020. Last updated: 11th of June 2021.
Table of Contents
Can You Buy a SIM Card in Samoa?
Everyone is allowed to buy a Samoan SIM card, including tourists and visitors.
You do need to be aware that you have to go through a SIM card registration procedure. Additionally, you need a phone that supports the frequencies used in the country (preferably all of them to have the most optimal experience while in Samoa).
The latter requirement applies to those who want to get a Samoan SIM card or want to roam in the country.
Where Can You Buy a SIM Card in Samoa?
You can get a Samoan SIM card in the official stores of Vodafone and Digicel. They are also available at Faleolo International Airport (Samoa International Airport).
Cannot see the video above? Watch it here or on YouTube.
You can expect to pay the following for Samoan SIM cards:
- Vodafone Samoa: 10 WST (with 5 WST credit)
- Digicel Samoa: “Free” (“SEKI SIM+” if top-up is => 5 WST) or 5 WST
Can You Use Your Phone in Samoa?
Samoa uses GSM technology for mobile communications. CDMA phones will not work in Samoa. However, there is a 99% chance your phone supports GSM (if your phone has a SIM card slot, then it supports GSM).
Besides that, you need to be aware of the ITU regions to determine whether your phone will work in other parts of the world.
Although there are three ITU regions, you only need to know these two terms: American Frequencies and European Frequencies.
Africa, Asia (including the Middle East), Europe, and Oceania (ITU Regions 1 & 3) typically use European Frequencies, meaning phones bought in those regions can be used in countries using European Frequencies without issues.
The Americas (North-, Central, and South America + the Caribbean), ITU Region 2, use American Frequencies, which are different from the European Frequencies.
by Denelson83, CC BY-SA 2.5Samoa uses primarily European frequencies for 2G, 3G, and 4G/LTE. However, they use a low-band frequency for 4G/LTE that is an American frequency (700 MHz on Band 28). In comparison, the high-band frequency for 4G/LTE is 1800 MHz on Band 3 – the base 4G/LTE frequency for almost all nations in ITU regions 1 & 3.
If you bought your phone in the Americas (ITU region 2) and have a low/medium-end device (without Tri-Band or Quad-Band) support, then you can get a SIM card from both Vodafone Samoa and Digicel Samoa and use only 4G/LTE on 700 MHz (Band 28). However, you will not have any fallback to 2G or 3G because those are on traditional European frequencies.
Even then, the standard band for 700 MHz in the Americas are Band 12 & Band 13 – Band 28 is popular in Latin America (Central America), some countries in Asia, and a few other Pacific nations. As a result, there is no guarantee that your phone will work in Samoa, even when bought in ITU region 2 and it supporting 700 MHz (on the wrong bands).
If you purchased your phone in Africa, Asia, Europe, or Oceania (ITU regions 1 & 3) and have a low/medium-end device (without Tri-Band or Quad-Band) support, then you can get a SIM card from both Vodafone Samoa and Digicel Samoa and use 2G, 3G, and 4G/LTE. However, your phone may fall back to 2G or 3G in areas where only 700 MHz (Band 28) is used for 4G/LTE.
If you have a medium/high-end device with Tri-Band or Quad-Band support, you can use your phone in Samoa without (major) issues – also on 4G/LTE.
Mobile Operators, Networks & Frequencies in Samoa
Samoa has two mobile network operators:
- Vodafone Samoa (formerly Bluesky Samoa)
- Digicel Samoa
The following frequencies are used in Samoa:
- 2G: 900 MHz
- 3G: 900 MHz & 2100 MHz
- 4G/LTE: 700 MHz (Band 28) & 1800 MHz (Band 3)
You can learn more about frequencies in the video below.
Cannot see the video above? Watch it here or on YouTube.
To check whether your phone will work in Samoa, 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.
5G in Samoa
5G is not available in Samoa as of April 2021. Additionally, the Samoan government has not made any indications of when they will be auctioning 5G licenses. Vodafone Samoa and Digicel Samoa are not having any 5G trials either.
In April 2020, the Minister of Communication and Information Technology (MCIT) Afamasaga Rico Tupai had to make a public statement that Samoa has no 5G technology and that there no plans for when 5G will be rolled out in the country.
“We do not have 5G in Samoa. It has never been discussed, and it is not on any plans for Samoa.”
Afamasaga Rico Tupai – Minister of Communication and Information Technology
The minister had to make this statement because misinformation about COVID-19/the Coronavirus linking it to 5G spread around the community (for the record: 5G mobile networks DO NOT spread COVID-19).
Best SIM Card in Samoa
If you want to buy the best SIM card in Samoa, I recommend going with either Vodafone or Digicel. Vodafone has the most extensive coverage and more variety in plans. Digicel has the widest 4G/LTE range and is the cheapest. It also has attractive plans (Prime Bundles) if you use certain apps.
SIM Card Registration in Samoa
SIM card registration with your passport information is required in Samoa. It will be done at the point of sale.
Samoa Prices & Insights
Mobile data used to be super expensive in Oceania because the nations had to rely on satellites instead of submarine cables for broadband and wireless connections. Satellites were, and many still are, slow and costly, which drove up internet prices for the Pacific islands.
Because of their remote locations, it was often not feasible to connect the nations to submarine cables. Hence, satellites are their only way to stay connected.
That has changed over the years. Not only are more Pacific nations linked to submarine cables, but they also have access to much faster and cheaper satellite connections, such as Kacific (-1).
These developments have made some Oceanian countries see their average data prices be reduced by almost 95%. The country that noticed such a significant reduction is Samoa.
So how much will mobile data cost you in Samoa?
The average price for 1 GB of data in Samoa is 0.56 USD, about ten times less than the Oceanian average of 5.51 USD. The world average is 4.07 USD.
As shown in the table above, the average cost of 1 GB of data for Samoa was 10.86 USD in 2020. This placed Samoa in the top 30 countries with the most expensive data rates (position 28). By 2021, Samoa is in the top 20 countries with the cheapest mobile data rates (position 18 – 0.56 USD), which is remarkable. Not just for us travelers, but also for the locals.
The Oceanian average cost of data is still on the higher end than other regions worldwide, but it is still reasonable, based on analysis.
With only 53 countries with average data costs below 1 USD, Samoa is on the right path to make (mobile) broadband affordable and accessible for anyone in Samoa.
Currency in Samoa
Samoa uses the Samoan Tālā with the symbol WST (which will be used throughout this guide) – However, prices are often listed as just $ or ST$ & WST$. For example, 25 WST = WST$/ST$/$25. For reference, below are some exchange rates between WST and USD (US Dollars):
- 1 WST = 0.40 USD
- 10 WST = 3.95 USD
- 100 WST = 39.80 USD
For up-to-date WST:USD exchange rates, search WST 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 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 Euros, my main currency, when using Wise abroad when traveling compared to my debit and credit cards. Open a Wise account FREE!
Samoan Prepaid SIM Cards
Below, I will guide you through Vodafone Samoa & Digicel Samoa, 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 Samoa has to offer to us.
Vodafone Samoa (Formerly Bluesky Samoa)
Vodafone Samoa, just Vodafone, but used to be known as Bluesky Samoa, is the largest operator in Samoa. It is, however, unknown how far ahead they are of Digicel Samoa, which decided to enter the Samoan market in 2006.
Vodafone uses the following frequencies:
- 2G: 900 MHz
- 3G: 900 MHz & 2100 MHz
- 4G/LTE: 700 MHz (Band 28) & 1800 MHz (Band 3)
This is what you will learn about Vodafone:
Click on the links above to jump to the section you are interested in.
* Coverage
* How to Get a Vodafone SIM Card & SIM Card Price
* Topping Up Options & Methods
* Plans & Packages
* APN/Internet Settings
Jump to Digicel
Coverage – Vodafone Samoa (Formerly Bluesky Samoa)
Vodafone has extensive coverage throughout Samoa (Upolu and Savai'i).
Coverage can only be found on the two main islands, which are Upolu and Savai'i. Upolu is the most populated island. Which, in turn, makes it have better coverage than Savai'i.
Vodafone has a map of all their mobile towers on the two islands. 77 towers can be found on Upolu and 23 on Savai'i.
Below is a coverage map to get an idea of how good coverage is and what to expect in terms of technology (2G, 3G, or 4G/LTE).
SIM Card Price – Vodafone Samoa (Formerly Bluesky Samoa)
Vodafone SIM cards can be purchased for 10 WST with 5 WST credit in Vodafone stores.
Short-term visitors and tourists can also get a Vodafone Tourist SIM card sold at Faleolo International Airport (Samoa International Airport).
Although the Tourist SIM card itself is free, you will be highly encouraged to select one of the three Tourist Packages. The following three Tourist Packages are available:
| Price | Plan | Data | Local Minutes | Bonus Local Minutes | Bonus International Minutes | Validity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 25 WST | Tourist 25 | 5 GB | 50 minutes | 150 minutes | 120 minutes | 7 days |
| 49 WST | Tourist 49 | 12 GB | 125 minutes | 200 minutes | 175 minutes | 14 days |
| 99 WST | Tourist 99 | 25 GB | 300 minutes | N/A | N/A | 28 days |
You can check your Vodafone phone number by dialing *888#.
Top-Up & Recharge – Vodafone Samoa (Formerly Bluesky Samoa)
You can top-up your Vodafone SIM card in many stores throughout Samoa. This can be done in Vodafone stores and other stores, including grocery stores, gas stations, and convenience stores.
To top-up, tell the salesperson how much credit you want, your phone number, pay, and they will top up your SIM card with the POS system.
You can also recharge online with (international) debit and credit cards with values between 1 WST to 100 WST.
Dial *888# to check your balance.
Packages, Plans, Bundles & Offers – Vodafone Samoa (Formerly Bluesky Samoa)
Vodafone has four bundles featuring data, which are:
- All In One Bundles (combo)
- Data Bundles (data-only)
- Facebook Bundles (app-specific data-only)
- Netflix Bundles (app-specific data-only)
All bundles can be activated by dialing *888#.
Click on the links above to jump to the plan you are interested in.
All In One Bundles – Vodafone Samoa (Formerly Bluesky Samoa)
The All In One Bundles are combo bundles with (nighttime) data, on-net minutes, local minutes, international minutes to Australia and New Zealand, on-net SMS, and local SMS.
The following All In One Bundles are available:
| Price | Plan | Anytime Data | Nighttime Data 1 | Bonus Data | Local Minutes | Australia & New Zealand Minutes | On-Net Minutes/SMS | Local SMS | Validity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3 WST | Fiafia Tele 3 | 1 GB | 1 GB | 6 GB | N/A | N/A | 30 minutes/SMS | N/A | 1 day |
| 5 WST | Fiafia Tele 5 | 2 GB | 2 GB | 6 GB | N/A | N/A | 50 minutes/SMS | N/A | 1 day |
| 5 WST | Malo 5 | 2 GB | N/A | N/A | 25 minutes | 5 minutes | N/A | 25 SMS | 2 days |
| 7 WST | Fiafia Tele 7 | 3 GB | 3 GB | 18 GB | N/A | N/A | 70 minutes/SMS | N/A | 3 days |
| 11 WST | Fiafia Tele 11 | 7 GB | 7 GB | 18 GB | N/A | N/A | 110 minutes/SMS | N/A | 7 days |
| 12 WST | Malo 12 | 7 GB | N/A | N/A | 50 minutes | 10 minutes | N/A | 50 SMS | 7 days |
| 12 WST | Fiafia Tele 12 | 9 GB | 9 GB | 42 GB | N/A | N/A | 120 minutes/SMS | N/A | 7 days |
| 13 WST | Fiafia Tele 13 | 10 GB | 10 GB | 42 GB | N/A | N/A | 130 minutes/SMS | N/A | 7 days |
| 16 WST | Malo 16 | 10 GB | N/A | N/A | 100 minutes | 20 minutes | N/A | 100 SMS | 7 days |
| 16 WST | Fiafia Tele 16 | 13 GB | 13 GB | 42 GB | N/A | N/A | 160 minutes/SMS | N/A | 7 days |
| 21 WST | Malo 21 | 13 GB | N/A | N/A | 150 minutes | 30 minutes | N/A | 150 SMS | 7 days |
| 21 WST | Fiafia Tele 21 | 18 GB | 18 GB | 42 GB | N/A | N/A | 210 minutes/SMS | N/A | 7 days |
| 25 WST | Fiafia Tele 25 | 20 GB | 20 GB | 30 GB | N/A | N/A | 250 minutes/SMS | N/A | 7 days |
| 40 WST | Fiafia Tele 40 | 20 GB | 20 GB | 30 GB | N/A | N/A | 400 minutes/SMS | N/A | 28 days |
1 Nighttime data can be used between 0:00 and 6:00
Data Bundles – Vodafone Samoa (Formerly Bluesky Samoa)
The Data Bundles are data-only bundles, ranging from 300 MB for 1 WST to 58 GB for 58 WST.
You can activate one of the following Data Bundles:
| Price | Plan | Data | Validity |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 WST | Super Data $1 | 300 MB | 1 hour |
| 3 WST | Super Data $3 | 1.5 GB | 24 hours |
| 5 WST | Super Data $5 | 3 GB | 2 days |
| 7 WST | Super Data $7 | 4 GB | 3 days |
| 11 WST | Super Data $11 | 7 GB | 7 days |
| 16 WST | Super Data $16 | 8 GB | 7 days |
| 21 WST | Super Data $21 | 13 GB | 7 days |
| 58 WST | Super Data $58 | 58 GB | 28 days |
Facebook Bundles – Vodafone Samoa (Formerly Bluesky Samoa)
The Facebook Bundles are data-only bundles with standard data allowances and dedicated data allowances for Facebook.
The following Facebook Bundles are available:
| Price | Plan | Data | Facebook Data | Validity |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3 WST | Facebook $3 | 500 MB | 1 GB | 2 days |
| 5 WST | Facebook $5 | 500 MB | 2 GB | 2 days |
| 11 WST | Facebook $11 | 5 GB | 4 GB | 7 days |
| 16 WST | Facebook $16 | 6 GB | 6 GB | 8 days |
| 21 WST | Facebook $21 | 7 GB | 7 GB | 28 days |
Netflix Bundles – Vodafone Samoa (Formerly Bluesky Samoa)
The Netflix Bundles are data-only bundles for Netflix with unlimited Netflix streaming for two, four, or 24 hours, or 10 GB of Netflix streaming for 28 days.
You can activate one of the following Netflix Bundles:
| Price | Plan | Netflix Data | Validity |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4 WST | Netflix 2 hr | Unlimited | 2 hours |
| 6 WST | Netflix 4 hr | Unlimited | 4 hours |
| 10 WST | Netflix 1 Day | Unlimited | 24 hours |
| 20 WST | Netflix 28 Day | 10 GB | 28 days |
APN/Internet Settings – Vodafone Samoa (Formerly Bluesky Samoa)
- Name: Vodafone
- APN: 4g.vodafone
Note: leave anything not mentioned above untouched.
Jump back to the Table of Contents.
Digicel Samoa
Digicel Samoa, just Digicel, is the other operator in Samoa. Before Digicel entered the Samoan market in 2006, Vodafone Samoa (which was called Bluesky back then) used to monopolize the telecom market in Samoa. Digicel's competition, and other factors, forced Vodafone Samoa to lower its prices to stay competitive.
Digicel uses the following frequencies:
- 2G: 900 MHz
- 3G: 900 MHz & 2100 MHz
- 4G/LTE: 700 MHz & 1800 MHz (Band 3)
This is what you will learn about Digicel:
Click on the links above to jump to the section you are interested in.
* Coverage
* How to Get a Digicel SIM Card & SIM Card Price
* Topping Up Options & Methods
* Plans & Packages
* APN/Internet Settings
Jump to Vodafone
Coverage – Digicel Samoa
Digicel has extensive coverage throughout Samoa (Upolu and Savai'i).
There will not be any coverage on the other Samoan islands (Apolima, Manono, and the Aleipata Islands (Fanuatapu, Namua, Nu'ulua & Nu'utele).
Since September 2020, all of Digicel's towers are 4G/LTE compatible. Digicel managed to do that faster than Vodafone Samoa. However, that does not mean that your phone will not fall back to 2G or 3G – it will happen but not as often anymore.
Below is Digicel's coverage map.
SIM Card Price – Digicel Samoa
You can get a Digicel SIM card for 5 WST in the Digicel store. You can also get the free SEKI SIM+ Offer. However, you need to recharge at least 5 WST to take advantage of the New SEKI SIM+ offer.
Visitors and tourists can get the Digicel Visitor SIM for free at Faleolo International Airport (Samoa International Airport) or the Digicel store. You need to show your boarding pass and passport to get your free Tourist SIM. You can only add Tourist Plans to the Digicel Visitor SIM.
SEKI SIM+ Offer – Digicel Samoa
The SEKI SIM+ offer is an offer giving you free data (up to 4 GB), minutes (50 minutes), and SMS (up to 400 SMS) when you top up at least 5 WST for four months in a row.
Below is an overview of all the SEKI SIM+ Offer benefits:
| Month | Top-Up | Free Data | Free Local Minutes | Free Local SMS | Benefits Validity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1st month | => 5 WST | 1 GB | 50 minutes | 100 SMS | 24 hours |
| 2nd month | => 5 WST | 2 GB | 50 minutes | 200 SMS | 24 hours |
| 3rd month | => 5 WST | 3 GB | 50 minutes | 300 SMS | 24 hours |
| 4th month | => 5 WST | 4 GB | 50 minutes | 400 SMS | 24 hours |
Digicel SIM cards get deactivated if there has been no activity for 120 days (no top-up for 120 days or no SIM activity for 120 days).
Top-Up & Recharge – Digicel Samoa
You can top-up your Digicel SIM card in many stores throughout Samoa. This can be done in the Digicel store and other stores, including grocery stores, gas stations, and convenience stores.
To top-up, Tell the salesperson how much credit you want, your phone number, pay, and they will top up your SIM card with the POS system.
You can also recharge online with (international) debit and credit cards.
You can check your balance by dialing *120# and check the validity of your airtime by dialing *124#.
Packages, Plans, Bundles & Offers – Digicel Samoa
Digicel has three data-featured plans, which are:
- Prime Bundles (combo)
- Tourist All In One Plans (combo for the tourist SIM card)
- Data Plans (data-only)
Click on the links above to jump to the plan you are interested in.
Prime Bundles – Digicel Samoa
The Prime Bundles are combo bundles with data, data for select Digicel Apps (Prime Apps), on-net minutes, and local SMS.
The following Prime Bundles are available:
| Price | Bundle | Any Use Data | Nighttime Any Use Data 1 | Listen More (Music) Data | Listen More (Radio) Data | Watch More Data | Play More Data | Share More Data | Know More Data | Store More Data | On-Net Minutes | Local SMS | Validity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2 WST | 1 Day Prime Cheehoo $2 | 250 MB | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | N/A | 20 minutes | 20 SMS | 1 day |
| 3 WST | 1 Day Prime Cheehoo $3 | 1 GB | 1 GB | 1 GB | 1 GB | 1 GB | 1 GB | 1 GB | 1 GB | 1 GB | 30 minutes | 30 SMS | 1 day |
| 5 WST | 1 Day Prime Cheehoo $5 | 2 GB | 1 GB | 1 GB | 1 GB | 1 GB | 1 GB | 1 GB | 1 GB | 1 GB | 50 minutes | 60 SMS | 1 day |
| 7 WST | 3 Day Prime Cheehoo $7 | 3 GB | 3 GB | 3 GB | 3 GB | 3 GB | 3 GB | 3 GB | 3 GB | 3 GB | 90 minutes | N/A | 3 days |
| 11 WST | 7 Day Prime Cheehoo $11 | 7 GB | 7 GB | 3 GB | 3 GB | 3 GB | 3 GB | 3 GB | 3 GB | 3 GB | 240 minutes | 240 SMS | 7 days |
| 13 WST | 7 Day Prime Cheehoo $13 | 10 GB | 10 GB | 7 GB | 7 GB | 7 GB | 7 GB | 7 GB | 7 GB | 7 GB | Unlimited | N/A | 7 days |
| 16 WST | 7 Day Prime Cheehoo $16 | 13 GB | 13 GB | 7 GB | 7 GB | 7 GB | 7 GB | 7 GB | 7 GB | 7 GB | Unlimited | N/A | 7 days |
| 21 WST | 7 Day Prime Cheehoo $21 | 18 GB | 18 GB | 7 GB | 7 GB | 7 GB | 7 GB | 7 GB | 7 GB | 7 GB | Unlimited | N/A | 7 days |
1 Nighttime Any Use Data can be used between 0:00 and 6:00
You also get unlimited Do More data, which is for the MyDigicel App
Prime Bundles can be activated on the MyDigicel app or by dialing *120#.
You can download any Prime Bundle app by visiting the links below:
- Listen More (Music) with D'Music
- Listen More (Radio) with GoLoud
- Watch More with PlayGo
- Play More with Sports Max
- Share More with Bip
- Know More with Loop
- Store More with Billo
Tourist All In One Plans – Digicel Samoa
The Tourist All In One Plans are combo plans for the Digicel Tourist SIM.
You can add one of the following Tourist All In One Plans, which can be activated by dialing *680#:
| Price | Plan | Data | Local Minutes | International Minutes | Local SMS | International SMS | Validity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 20 WST | Traveller Plan-$20 | 2 GB | 200 minutes | 100 minutes | 200 SMS | 100 SMS | 7 days |
| 50 WST | Smart Plan-$50 | 5 GB | 300 minutes | 150 minutes | 300 SMS | 150 SMS | 15 days |
| 100 WST | Premium Plan-$100 | 10 GB | 400 minutes | 200 minutes | 400 SMS | 200 SMS | 30 days |
Data Plans – Digicel Samoa
The Data Plans are data-only plans.
You can purchase a Data Plan by dialing *123# and selecting option 4:
| Price | Plan | Data | App Data | Validity |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 WST | Hour Pass | 50 MB | N/A | 1 hour |
| 2 WST | $2 Data Plan | 40 MB | N/A | 24 hours |
| 2 WST | Night Owl | 200 MB | N/A | 1 night (0:00 – 6:00) |
| 3 WST | $3 Data Plan | 100 MB | N/A | 2 days |
| 4 WST | $4 Data Plan | 50 MB | 100 MB 1 | Data for 2 day, App Data for 24 hours |
| 5 WST | $5 Data Plan | 150 MB | N/A | 3 days |
| 9 WST | $9 Data Plan | 300 MB | N/A | 5 days |
| 19 WST | $19 Data Plan | 675 MB | N/A | 7 days |
| 24 WST | $24 Data Plan | 1 GB | N/A | 30 days |
1 for Facebook & YouTube
APN/Internet Settings – Digicel Samoa
- Name: Digicel
- APN: web.digicelsamoa.ws
Note: leave anything not mentioned above untouched.
Jump back to the Table of Contents.
Other Ways to Stay Connected When Traveling in Samoa
Getting a Samoan SIM card is the best way to stay connected in the country. You have learned that SIM cards are cheap, plans are generous, and speeds are blazing fast.
But sometimes, getting a local SIM card is not possible. Perhaps you have a SIM-lock phone. The operator you prefer to go with does not support the frequencies your phone uses, or you cannot be bothered to deal with SIM card registration in every country you are visiting.
Luckily, there are other ways to get online when in Samoa.
However, these methods may be more expensive than getting a SIM card from the local operators.
International Roaming
International roaming is the most convenient way to stay connected when traveling in other countries because you do not have to buy a new SIM card, have to deal with SIM card registration regulations, nor have multiple phone numbers to deal with.
However, international roaming has proven to be expensive in many cases, especially compared to buying local SIM cards. That is why many travelers are not fond of international roaming.
International roaming has its pros and cons. However, it is important to know how it works. This in-depth guide explains it all.
Find out whether your mobile operator has attractive roaming rates for Samoa here.
Using an International SIM Card or Travel SIM Card
International SIM cards are SIM cards made for the traveler in mind. Using them is often cheaper than international roaming. However, they are almost always more expensive than using a local SIM card.
There are many other advantages and disadvantages of getting international SIM cards, which you can learn about here.
Using a Mobile Hotspot (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.
Using Free WIFI Networks
Using free WIFI connections is the cheapest way to stay connected because they are free. The major downside of trying to use WIFI hotspots is that you will have to locate them, and they are not available on every corner in Samoa.
Make sure to protect your internet traffic with a VPN so that hackers cannot steal your personal data.
The Preferred Way to Stay Connected When Traveling in Samoa
Getting a SIM card from Vodafone or Digicel would do you well when considering a Samoan SIM card.
Local Prepaid SIM Cards in Other Oceanian Countries
Visiting other countries in Oceania? Check out my Oceania SIM card buying guide, covering other Oceanian 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:
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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Sign up for my newsletter: Get an excel sheet of the best SIM cards of over 230+ destinations around the world! Moreover, I send you many tips and tricks on how to save money while traveling every now and then.
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!
Learn More About Who Adu Actually Is
Who is the guy behind Phone Travel Wiz? Well, find out on the Ernest Adu about page!
