For travelers arriving at Berlin Brandenburg Airport, getting a local SIM card is important to stay connected while exploring Germany. A SIM gives access to affordable mobile data and calls during your stay. The airport offers convenient options to buy SIMs right upon arrival, saving you the hassle of searching elsewhere. This guide provides tips on where and how to purchase SIM cards inside the airport terminals to start enjoying online access from the moment you land.
Table of Contents
I. Where to Buy a SIM Card at Brandenburg Airport
There are limited options available to purchase SIM cards directly upon arrival at Berlin Brandenburg Airport. One of the only places you can buy a prepaid SIM card is at one of the Travelex Currency Exchange stores located in the airport terminal.
Before going through customs, there is a Travelex store located at Baggage Belt A3. This is likely the most convenient location to purchase a SIM card immediately after deplaning. Another Travelex is located opposite Arrivals 1 near the Relay shop for those entering the arrivals hall post-customs.
It is important to note that the Travelex stores only operate from 6:00 am to 6:00 pm daily. So if you arrive outside of these hours, you will unfortunately not be able to buy a German SIM card directly at the airport. Your only option would then be to purchase one once you reach Berlin city center.
II. Berlin Brandenburg Airport SIM Card Options and Costs
Travelex only offers a prepaid SIM deal from Lycamobile, which provides 15GB of data, unlimited calls and texts within Germany, all for a monthly cost of €40 EUR or around $44 USD.
It’s important to note the 15GB data allowance is only valid for use in Germany – there is no EU data roaming included. Lycamobile operates on the O2 Germany network. For travelers only visiting Germany on their trip and not other European countries, this could be a suitable option if you don’t mind paying €40 for 15GB.
If you need a larger data allowance or plan to visit other European countries, it’s recommended to explore Berlin SIM card options once you’ve left the airport and reached the city.
III. What You Need to Prepare for Getting a SIM Card at Brandenburg Airport
When purchasing a SIM card at Brandenburg Airport, make sure you have the following:
- Passport – Your passport is required as proof of ID for buying a prepaid SIM card in Germany.
- Unlocked phone – Your phone must be unlocked to use a foreign SIM card. Contact your home provider to unlock your phone before traveling.
- Credit/debit card – Have a credit or debit card available for payment. Some SIM card vending machines may only accept card payments.
- SIM card size – Standard, micro and nano SIM card sizes are available at the airport. Know which size your phone requires.
Also be ready to provide your basic contact details like name, address and phone number when purchasing your SIM card.
IV. eSIM as an Alternative to SIM Card at Brandenburg Airport
Travellers arriving at Berlin Brandenburg Airport now have a convenient new option for getting internet access without waiting in line at the airport SIM kiosks – Germany eSIM.
One of the top provider is Germany-eSIM.com, which offer a flexible data packages for Germany and surrounding countries. So skip the SIM queues and prep your digital travel sim in advance for the smoothest possible internet connection from the moment you touch down. Germany eSIM – the faster, simpler way to get online when exploring Berlin and beyond.
V. FAQs
Can I buy a SIM card late at night or early morning at Berlin Airport?
Yes, SIM card shops and vending machines at Berlin Brandenburg Airport are open 24/7, so you can purchase a Germany SIM card no matter what time your flight arrives or departs.
What are the SIM card shop hours at Brandenburg Airport?
Shop hours vary, but major SIM card retailers like Telekom, Vodafone, O2 and Lycamobile are open daily from 6am-10pm in the departures and arrivals areas at BER airport.
Can I pay by credit/debit card for a SIM card at Brandenburg Airport?
Yes, credit and debit card payments are widely accepted for SIM card purchases at shops and vending machines in Berlin Brandenburg Airport. Carry a Visa, Mastercard, etc for payment. Some vending machines may only take cards.
Does my phone need to be unlocked to use a Berlin Airport SIM card?
Yes, your phone must be unlocked to use a SIM card purchased in Germany. Contact your home provider in advance to unlock your device before traveling.
Do SIM cards sold at Berlin Brandenburg Airport allow calling?
Most tourist SIM cards at Berlin airport include calling minutes to German numbers, while some plans are data-only. Choose a plan or top up your SIM with calling credit if you need to make calls.
VI. Final Words
Purchasing a prepaid Germany SIM card at Brandenburg Airport is quick and easy with shops and vending machines located right in the terminals.
Advanced users who prioritize convenience may find Germany eSIM the best digital solution when arriving at Berlin’s airport.