Prepaid SIMs offer affordability and a no-strings-attached approach to their data bundles — making them an excellent choice for internationals in the Netherlands.
With year-long contractual commitments and the steep prices of some SIM-only packages, getting a mobile data connection can be an utter headache for tourists and new residents to the Netherlands.
However, there’s a ray of light in the darkness: prepaid SIM cards. ✨
This post might have affiliate links that help us write the articles you love, at no extra cost to you. Read our statement.
First things first: What are prepaid SIMs?
Prepaid SIMs are physical or digital SIM cards that enable you to pay upfront for all the data, call minutes, and texts you use.
These SIMs are pay-as-you-go, making them perfect for tourists, temporary residents, and commitment-phobes, as no pesky, year-long contracts are required.
Best prepaid SIMs in the Netherlands
Ready to sample your own prepaid plan? We’ve tested the best, and found the most wallet-friendly and feature-packed prepaid SIMs on the Dutch market! 👇
Simyo: Most affordable prepaid SIM
Offering the most affordable prepaid SIMs on our list at just €7, Simyo punches well above its weight in terms of features.
You’ll benefit from unlimited calling, texting AND data options at your fingertips — all with access to KPN’s blazing-fast network (for a fraction of the price!).
Get connected
Lebara: Best prepaid SIM for internationals
With super-low calling/texting costs for 44 countries in their handy ‘All in International’ bundle, it’s no coincidence that Lebara is one of the most popular prepaid SIMs on offer at Dutch airports.
Even better? With plans like their 3+1 bundle, you can even get one month of data completely free!
KPN: Best prepaid SIM for blazing-fast internet speeds
Boasting one of the Netherlands’ fastest and most extensive mobile networks, KPN is a true heavyweight in terms of feature-packed prepaid bundles.
Whilst this is one of the more costly providers on our list, their wide range of monthly or daily data packages and ultra-reliable network more than justify the price.
Get connected
Odido: Best prepaid SIM for flexibility
Whether you’re keen on an unlimited data bundle or want the best of both worlds with calling minutes and messages too, the sky’s the limit with Odido’s range of flexible packages.
In addition to being valid throughout the EU, they offer combi bundles at various price points — ensuring you never overpay for the data you want.
Get connected
Vodafone: Best prepaid SIM for unlimited data
If you’re looking to surf the web, play your favourite Spotify tunes, and maybe stream a show or two, Vodafone’s handy unlimited data bundles are right up your alley.
Despite their validity ranging from a single day to one week, they’re a stellar prepaid option for data-hungry travellers who don’t want unnecessary contracts or commitments.
Get connected
Prepaid vs. SIM-only: What’s the difference?
Prepaid refers to prepaid mobile credit that a customer can buy. It typically comes in the form of call minutes, a set number of messages, and/or mobile data.
SIM-only, on the other hand, involves signing up for a mobile subscription. In most cases, this will lock you into a contract for a year or two — though certain providers still offer a monthly terminable option (for an added fee!).
READ MORE | The best SIM-only plans in the Netherlands: the ultimate guide
For users who’ll be spending a limited time in the Netherlands (or who simply don’t want to sign off on a year-long subscription without testing the product first), prepaid SIMs offer more flexibility.
With affordable prices and the ability to cancel your subscription monthly, prepaid SIMs are one of the best choices for internationals in the Netherlands.
Have you ever used a prepaid SIM plan in the Netherlands or abroad? Tell us all about your experiences in the comments below!
You might also like:
- Mobile phones and SIM cards in the Netherlands: ultimate 2024 guide
- eSIMs in the Netherlands: The ultimate 2024 guide + the best options
- Unlimited data SIM cards in the Netherlands: the ultimate guide
- The best banks in the Netherlands for internationals in 2024
- The best credit cards for expats in the Netherlands
Prepaid SIM cards in the Netherlands: Frequently asked questions
With a lot of information and options to wade through, it’s only natural that you’d have a few questions. 🕵🏻♀️
How can I get a prepaid SIM in the Netherlands?
Dutch prepaid SIM cards can be bought at all mobile stores in the Netherlands. More conveniently, you can order SIM cards online and have them delivered to your new home or hotel.
In addition to this, prepaid SIM cards are often available at airports, by the checkout at many supermarkets, and several convenience stores/corner shops.
Can I get a Dutch SIM without a mobile plan?
It’s perfectly possible to buy a prepaid Dutch SIM card without needing to splurge on a full mobile data plan.
With a prepaid plan, however, you’ll be paying for 30 days’ worth of mobile data and call credit — instead of paying for a year’s subscription that renews monthly.
What’s the cheapest Dutch prepaid SIM card?
The cheapest prepaid SIM card on the Dutch market at the moment is offered by Simyo for €7.50.
With 500 MBs of mobile data and 75 minutes of call time, it’s a great starter package for internationals who want to get connected in a pinch.
Do Dutch mobile data providers offer prepaid SIM cards?
Several mobile data providers in the Netherlands offer prepaid SIM cards. These providers include KPN, Simyo, and Lebara.
Can I buy a SIM card in the supermarket in the Netherlands?
Yes, you can buy prepaid SIM cards from the most popular mobile data providers at various large supermarket chains in the Netherlands.
Typically, they can be found close to the checkout.
Liana Pereira 🇱🇰
Liana juggles her role as an Editor with wrapping up a degree in cognitive linguistics and assisting with DutchReview's affiliate portfolio. Since arriving in the Netherlands for her studies in 2018, she's thrilled to have the 'write' opportunity to help other internationals feel more at home here — whether that's by penning an article on the best SIMs to buy in NL, the latest banking features, or important things to know about Dutch health insurance.
