We may go on vacation to disconnect and unwind, but it's really hard to enjoy a trip without being properly connected to the internet and phone. It used to be complicated and expensive, but today there are a variety of options for purchasing a communication package in Paris and France in general, and in some cases you don't even have to deal with physical SIM cards.
In this article, I will present to you all your options for staying in touch with home (and of course browsing Facebook and Instagram while you stroll the streets of Paris).
So let's start with two options, which I recommend less, and then we'll talk about the simple, convenient, and inexpensive way to buy a surfing package in France.
Secrets of Le Marais: A Journey into the Historic and Chic Heart of Paris
Join us on a virtual journey to the most fascinating district in Paris. Together we will discover hidden courtyards, French nobility, and the true stories behind the magnificent facades.
Two options that I am less than sympathetic to
The first option, which for some reason many still choose, is to purchase a data plan from the local Israeli cellular provider. I'm skipping this option because there's really no reason to do it, unless your phone doesn't support eSIM (more on that soon). Data plans from Israeli providers are very expensive and not cost-effective, and they're also stingy with the amount of data.
A slightly better option is to purchase a local SIM. You can buy a prepaid SIM with a package that suits your needs and the length of your trip. Many phones today support dual SIM, so you don't have to take out the Israeli SIM, just add the local one.
Where do you buy a local SIM in Paris?
At the airport Charles de Gaulle You can buy a SIM at the Relay bookstores, located in Terminal 1 and Terminal 2. You can also buy a SIM at the tourist information desk in Terminal 1. Prices at the airport are more expensive than in the city itself (about 50 euros for a SIM with 50GB of data).
There are four mobile networks in France – Orange, SFR, Bouygues Telecom and a network called Free. Prices vary depending on the amount of minutes and data (browsing volume) you receive. Orange, for example, offers a prepaid SIM card that starts at 15 euros, while SFR offers a basic card for 10 euros. You can expand the package if necessary by sending an SMS code or on the relevant company's website.
I recommend choosing the package based on the volume of Internet browsing. This is the most important element in the communication package, since most of us conduct our conversations today through instant messaging apps like WhatsApp or Telegram, and you can also send voice messages through them. Browsing is also important for public transportation apps and navigation using Google Maps, and of course for connecting with anonymous Francophiles and finding important information about your trip to Paris.
You're probably asking, if buying a local SIM is relatively easier and cheaper than buying a data plan from Israel, why aren't you crazy about this option?
The reason for this is that you have to buy it before you travel, trust the machines at the airport to give you one, or wait until you get to the city and look for a SIM at some kiosk. Then you have to open the phone, take out the existing SIM (or insert the local one, if you have a dual SIM in your phone), not to lose the Israeli SIM… in short – a headache. In addition, a local SIM disconnects you from your Israeli phone number.
So what is the alternative, you ask! Purchasing an eSIM card.
What is an eSIM?
eSIM is a SIM card for use with a mobile phone. It is a SIM that is embedded in your smartphone (which is why it is called an Embedded SIM). That is, it comes built into the mobile device and cannot be removed.
The eSIM works the same way as a standard removable SIM card, but there's no need to purchase a card or other physical element to activate it. If your phone has an eSIM, you're all set to use this feature.
What do you do with an eSIM?
eSIM simply allows you to purchase a communication and internet browsing package very easily, without having to deal with a physical card at all. Activation of the embedded SIM is done via QR code. If your phone supports eSIM, you can even stay connected to your existing number. If you are traveling to multiple destinations, you can buy a communication package for each country as needed.
How do you buy and install an eSIM package?
First of all, it's important to make sure your phone has an eSIM. If you have an Android, Use the following guide To check SIM availability.
If you have an iPhone – Here is a guide..
In general, most new phones support eSIM. Apple has supported embedded SIM since iPhone 11, and Samsung has supported it since version 20.
Where to buy an eSIM for ParisI recommend the company? AIRALO, which sells an e-SIM that is suitable for many countries, including France. They offer a variety of data packages – from 1GB to 10GB, and you can always top up the e-SIM if needed.
If you choose to purchase from them, enter the coupon code ZVI8757 and you will receive $3 off your eSIM purchase.
Purchasing on the site is very simple, and requires a short registration (you can also log in to the site using Google, Facebook, or Apple ID). You can also download the AIRALO app and do the entire process from there: After downloading the app, you select the desired e-SIM, install it, and activate it – all from your cell phone, without having to buy a physical card.
Another option not mentioned here is to purchase a physical SIM card in Israel, and then when you land, you immediately connect to a local network, which saves you all the headache you mentioned about purchasing a local SIM card.
Both my husband and I didn't get along with Irlo.
On the other hand, with Seamless it was cheap and excellent, there is also backup and someone to talk to, which is very helpful.