Getting a SIM card at Sweden airport upon arrival is a convenient option.

This guide will provide key information on buying a SIM cards at Sweden Airport, as well as an overview of eSIM, an alternative to physical SIM cards.

Where to buy a SIM Card at Sweden Airport SIM

I. Which airport in Sweden offers SIM cards for tourists

The main international airports in Sweden that offer SIM cards for arriving travelers are:

  • Stockholm Arlanda Airport: Sweden’s largest and busiest airport, handling over 29 million passengers in 2021. Offers a wide selection of SIM card vendors, including Swedish mobile operators Tele2, Telia, Telenor, and Tre.
  • Gothenburg Landvetter Airport: Second largest airport in Sweden, located near Gothenburg. Vendors include Pressbyrån convenience store and Swedish mobile operators.

II. Where to buy a SIM card at Sweden airports

There are a few main options for purchasing prepaid SIM card at Sweden airports:

Airport shops: Most major airports like Stockholm Arlanda and Landvetter have mobile phone stores within the airport.

  • Opening hours: Open daily 5:00-23:00
  • Waiting time: No queue
  • Prices: Prices may be slightly higher than stores in the city, start from ~$12
Buying SIM card at Stockholm Airport
Buying SIM card at Airport

Pressbyrå stores: Large convenience store chain present in all major airports.

  • Opening hours: Open 05:00-23:00 daily
  • Waiting time: Quick activation, under 10 mins wait.
  • Prices: Wide range of SIMs from Telia, Telenor etc. SIMs from 99 SEK.
Getting SIM Card at Sweden Airport - Pressbyrå stores
Getting SIM Card at Sweden Airport – Pressbyrå stores

7-Eleven: Convenience stores at some airports like Gothenburg Landvetter.

  • Opening hours: Open until 22:00. Smaller SIM selection than Pressbyrå but often open later. ‘
  • Prices: SIMs from 99 SEK.
Buying SIM Card at 7-Eleven at Sweden Airport
Buying SIM Card at 7-Eleven at Sweden Airport

Online purchase for airport pickup: Online retailer has pickup lockers in some airports for delivery within 1 hour. Avoid queues but check locker availability.

III. What to prepare to buy a SIM card at Sweden Airports

Having the proper documentation and items prepared can make the process even smoother:

  • Passport – Your passport is required as official identification when purchasing any SIM card as a foreign tourist. Data is collected for mandatory customer registration.
  • Unlocked phone – Your mobile phone must be unlocked to insert a local Swedish SIM. Some airports may have phone rental or loans available if needed.
  • Credit or debit card – Most major credit and debit cards are accepted for SIM card purchases at Swedish airports. Cash may also be accepted.
  • SIM card size – SIM tool could be necessaire to swap standard or microSIM cards. NanoSIMs and eSIM QR codes are also available. Ask the seller to ensure you get the correct size.s.

Following the above tips will help you grab your Sweden SIM card quickly so you can start enjoying mobile data upon arrival.

IV. Sweden eSIM – An Alternative to SIM Card at Sweden Airports

While physical SIM cards can easily be purchased at Sweden airport, eSIM presents an alternative uniquely suited to short-term tourists.

  • Convenience – eSIMs enable instant activation of data plans. No need to physically swap SIMs in your device.
  • Flexibility – Plans can be purchased online ahead of arrival or any time during your trip. Add data as needed.
  • Multi-country – Switch between eSIM profiles from different countries easily. Useful when visiting multiple regions.
  • No roaming fees – Local data rates apply, avoiding expensive roaming charges from home carrier.
  • Shorter plans – eSIM providers offer data packages as short as 24 hours. Great for brief trips.
  • Digital ID – eSIMs utilize digital identification for purchasing. No passport needed in-store.

Leading eSIM providers like Sweden eSIM offers prepaid data eSIMs perfect for short Sweden visits. Plans start from $5.50 USD per day with unlimited data. With eSIMs, you skip airport SIM lines and activate your Swedish data plan with just your phone.

Sweden eSIM plans
Sweden eSIM plans

eSIM tips: Check eSIM-compatible devices list before purchasing your eSIM

V. FAQs

Can I buy a SIM card late at night upon arrival?

Most major airport SIM card providers and convenience stores stay open very late aligning with flight arrival times. However, for guaranteed 24/7 access, an eSIM activated online may be the best option.

How much more expensive are airport SIM cards compared to city SIM cards?

Airport SIM cards are typically priced competitively with a modest premium. However, special promotions are common, making airport SIM prices very reasonable – often starting as low as 100 SEK for prepaid options.

Is it cheaper to buy a SIM card online and pick up at the airport?

Sometimes yes, depending on promotions. But pricing is generally comparable between online and in-airport purchases. Convenience may be the bigger factor in choosing between the two options.

How long are the wait times for SIM card kiosks at Swedish airports?

Wait times vary considerably depending on arrival traffic. During peak arrival hours, queues can get long at SIM card counters. Traveling outside high season, you may be served immediately. Having payment ready speeds up the process.

Can I use mobile data immediately after activating my SIM card at Sweden Airport?

Yes, prepaid SIM cards purchased at Swedish airports allow you to start using mobile data as soon as the SIM is activated on your phone. Be sure to have the account PIN code on hand that the seller provides.

VI. Conclusion

Getting connected with mobile data via a local SIM card should be a priority when visiting Sweden. The major international airports offer an easy and convenient option for tourists to purchase affordable prepaid SIM plans on arrival.

Consider Sweden eSIM plans that enable flexible, instant mobile data anytime.