All European mobile phones (EU and non-EU) operate on the GSM system, as opposed to the CDMA system used in North America and some parts of Asia. CDMA-only phones won’t work in Europe. GSM phones always require an installed SIM card that’s affiliated with a mobile carrier in order to operate on a mobile network. You can buy a new SIM card (with or without a phone) in each country you visit, or use the same SIM card throughout the EU without incurring roaming charges—up to a set limit. SIM cards are easy to buy in most European countries, but some, like Germany, have significant security-related restrictions that make the process much less convenient for tourists.
The shops at your arrival airport usually sell phones and SIM cards, but the prices may be a bit higher.
These carrier-specific shops, of course, only sell phones and SIM cards linked to their network. This means you’ll have fewer options and may end up paying more as a result.
If you prefer a prepaid basic-model smartphone, expect the starting price point to be closer to $100 USD.
An unlocked feature phone (without SIM card) may start as low as $40 USD. A basic unlocked smartphone may be $100-300, while higher-end phones tend to be in the $500-$900 USD range.
If you buy the phone and SIM card separately, you’ll have to first install the card in the appropriate slot. Make sure the phone is set to your preferred language. The clerk should be able to help with that if needed.
Some mobile carriers in Europe permit you to “top off” your talk/text/data online instead. Check the package and/or inserts that come with your phone-plus-SIM card combo to see if this is an option.
Some carriers do not permit phones on their network to be unlocked. This is more likely if you purchased your phone as part of a 2-year (or alternate time period) contract. You’ll still need to buy at least one SIM card that is compatible for use in Europe once you arrive.
Don’t buy a SIM card with the phone, unless it is clearly labeled as compatible with a particular European mobile phone carrier. SIM cards intended for use in North America, for instance, normally won’t work in Europe. Buying a phone at home to bring to Europe versus buying a phone in Europe really comes down to personal choice. The prices are usually fairly comparable.
If you’re travelling to multiple European Union (EU) member nations, you can buy your SIM card in a country where it’s easy to get one and use it throughout the EU. There won’t be any roaming charges until you reach a predetermined usage limit.
You’ll still find SIM cards for sale throughout Germany, but you have to provide both a valid photo ID and proof of a German mailing address, then wait for the SIM card to be mailed to that address. [12] X Research source
Also make sure that the SIM card fits your phone! The standard SIM card is a common size that fits most phones, but some newer phones use micro SIM cards. Compatible major phone brands should be listed on the SIM card package.
Do this while you’re still in the store where you bought the SIM card. Ask the clerk for help with installation or troubleshooting if necessary.
You’ll get a new number every time you buy a new SIM card. Calls to your normal number will go to voicemail, and you won’t be able to access these voicemails unless your mobile provider at home offers a means for getting them online.
