Antigua & Barbuda: Buy the Best SIM Cards
When traveling to Antigua & Barbuda, staying connected is essential to keep in touch with friends, family, or for business purposes. Buying a local SIM card is often the most cost-effective way to ensure reliable mobile service. Here’s a listicle guiding you through some of the best SIM card options in Antigua & Barbuda:
- Flow (formerly LIME)
- Coverage: Flow is known for providing extensive coverage across both islands, ensuring that connectivity remains consistent.
- Data Packages: Offers a variety of data packages tailored to short and long-term visitors.
- Cost: Competitive pricing with options for budget-conscious travelers.
- Availability: SIM cards can be purchased at the airport, Flow stores, and many other retailers.
- Tourist Packages: Special tourist plans are often available, including combo deals with data, calls, and texts.
- Digicel
- Coverage: Digicel also boasts widespread coverage in Antigua & Barbuda, keeping you covered in most tourist spots.
- Data Packages: Numerous data plans are offered, including high-speed 4G LTE services.
- Cost: Slightly higher-priced than Flow, but with potential for more comprehensive services.
- Availability: Widely available at the airport, Digicel shops, and local vendors across the islands.
- Add-ons: Offers various add-ons for international calling and entertainment services.
- Apua Inet
- Coverage: While not as widespread as Flow or Digicel, Apua Inet serves well within St. John’s and other populated areas.
- Data Packages: They provide several data plans that cater to both residents and visitors.
- Cost: Offers competitive rates, particularly for those planning to stay within urban areas.
- Availability: SIM cards are available at their office in St. John’s and some resellers.
- Local Services: Focuses more on providing services to locals, but can be suitable for visitors staying in the city.
When choosing a SIM card, consider the following:
- Your length of stay will dictate whether you need a short-term visitor package or a plan suitable for a longer visit.
- Data needs depend on whether you will be streaming media, working, or simply using your phone for navigation and basic communication.
- Travel itinerary plays a role, as some providers offer better coverage in certain areas than others.
How to Purchase and Use SIM Cards in Antigua & Barbuda:
- Bring an Unlocked Phone: Make sure your phone is unlocked and compatible with GSM networks.
- ID Requirement: Upon purchase, you may be required to present a form of identification.
- Prepaid Credit: Most SIM cards are prepaid, so you’ll need to top up with credit to activate data plans.
- Activation: Follow the provider’s instructions to activate the SIM card. This may involve dialing a specific number or sending a text message.
- Check the Balance: Regularly check your credit balance to ensure you’re not unexpectedly cut off from the service.
Tips for Using Your SIM Card:
- Turn off data roaming to avoid surprise charges.
- Use Wi-Fi when available to conserve your data allowance.
- Consider an international calling app if the provider’s international rates are high.
Flow Data Packages
| Data | Time | Price |
|---|---|---|
| 325 MB | 1 day | EC$ 3.29 |
| 500 MB | 3 days | EC$ 12.99 |
| 500 MB | 7 days | EC$ 21.99 |
| 1 GB | 7 days | EC$ 29.99 |
| 1 GB | 30 days | EC$ 44.99 |
| 3 GB | 30 days | EC$ 79.99 |
| 5 GB | 30 days | EC$ 99.99 |
Digicel Data Packages
| 400 MB, 10 mins, unlimited on-net voice and SMS for 1 day: EC$ 7 |
| 2.8 GB, 70 mins, unlimited on-net voice and SMS for 7 days: EC$ 35 |
| 20 GB, 300 mins, unlimited on-net voice and SMS for 30 days: EC$ 105 |
References:
https://www.phonetravelwiz.com/buying-a-sim-card-in-antigua-and-barbuda-guide/
https://www.digicelgroup.com/ag/en/prepaid