4 mins read
Key points
- Offering extensive coverage across both 4G and 5G bandwidth, Vodafone is a good network if you're looking for reliable signal and data
- As well as offering global roaming to customers on selected tariffs, Vodafone lets you add entertainment services to your plan, giving you access to a variety of streaming options
- Despite offering decent rates for new joiners, Vodafone SIM only tariffs almost always increase in price after a certain time, so be sure to check after that period to make sure you're still happy with what you're getting vs what you're paying
- Compare Vodafone of SIM only deals alongside those offered by other UK networks to make sure you’re getting the best deal for your needs
What is Vodafone SIM only?
Vodafone has a strong reputation as one of the UK's most reliable mobile providers, offering extensive coverage across both 4G and 5G bandwidths.
Like other mobile providers, Vodafone offers SIM only deals alongside regular contracts. As the name suggests, this doesn't give you a new phone; instead, you get a SIM card with an agreed amount of minutes, texts and data on it.
If you're already with Vodafone and want to switch to SIM only, you must first have paid off your existing monthly contract.
Why choose Vodafone SIM only?
If you've got a phone you love and want to stick with it, Vodafone SIM only could be your best option.
All you have to do is choose the Vodafone SIM only tariff that works best for you and Vodafone will send you a new SIM to insert into your handset.
As it's not tied to the handset, you're free to change devices as much or as little as you'd like with a Vodafone SIM only tariff.
There are other reasons to choose Vodafone SIM only as well, including:
Worldwide roaming
Depending on what plan you pick, Vodafone lets you roam internationally like you're at home in over 80 countries.
This includes over 50 European destinations.
Entertainment options
If you decide on a more generous Vodafone SIM only tariff, you'll be able to get streaming options Included, so your favourite music and TV is only a tap away.
At the time of writing, Vodafone bundles the following streaming services in with its tariffs:
- Spotify
- YouTube Premium
- Amazon Prime
Keep in mind, these options may change in the future.
VeryMe rewards
This is Vodafone's loyalty programme, and it can be accessed through the My Vodafone app.
Available on both monthly and Pay As You Go SIM deals, you can enjoy a wide range of perks, including exclusive discounts, movie rentals and more.
What Vodafone SIM only deals are there?
From unlimited data to Pay As You Go top-up plans, Vodafone SIM only deals can be tailored to suit your mobile needs.
All plans come with unlimited minutes and texts, and if you choose a more robust tariff, you get access to things like:
- Device care
- Unlimited picture messages
- Unlimited data boosts
With numerous offers across its SIM only deals, Vodafone almost guarantees you better value for money when you switch. However, prices tend to go up after a set period, so keep an eye on your tariff to see if it's worth switching again after a certain time.
How much is Vodafone SIM only?
Vodafone SIM only contract prices vary, with new joiner deals often doubling after six months.
However, you do get a wide range of benefits for the increased price, including:
- 5G on compatible devices
- Entertainment services on selected plans
- Inclusive roaming around the world if chosen
Always double check the terms and conditions of your contract to ensure you keep saving.
How to choose Vodafone SIM only deals
Things to keep in mind when comparing Vodafone SIM only deals include:
Data habits
Whether it's taking pictures or shooting videos, Vodafone data limits are generous enough for you to enjoy with loved ones while also having enough left over for everyday tasks.
Roaming needs
Vodafone not only provides extensive coverage for you to roam in the UK, but also roam like you're at home across multiple worldwide destinations, ideal if you do a lot of travelling for work or leisure.
Entertainment preferences
If you prefer listening to music or watching your favourite programmes via mobile, then Vodafone SIM only could be a good option, as it'll let you sign up to these services at no extra cost while providing enough data for you to enjoy them on the go.
How long is a Vodafone SIM only contract?
Things to keep in mind when comparing Vodafone SIM only deals include:
- 24 months
- 12 months
- 30 days
Whichever plan you pick will depend on how flexible you are and whether you want something longer or shorter-term.
Activating your Vodafone SIM
To use a Vodafone SIM card, you'll need an unlocked phone or a phone that's locked to Vodafone. If your phone was previously locked to a different network but you've paid off your contract, simply contact your old provider to unlock it.
No matter what size SIM card your phone takes, you'll be covered with Vodafone, as they send a physical three-in-one card suitable for most devices. Simply pop out the SIM card size you need – standard, micro, or nano – and insert into your device.
New Vodafone customers should insert the SIM card into their handset prior to switching on the device. It can take up to 24 hours for the signal to kick in, so don't panic if your new Vodafone SIM doesn't work straight away.
Existing customers can continue using their old Vodafone SIM. However, if you bought a new handset and the SIM doesn't fit, you'll need to activate it online via your My Vodafone account.
Can you keep your existing number with a Vodafone SIM only deal?
Absolutely. All you need is a porting authorization code (PAC), which you can request from your previous network – either by phone or text message.
Once you have this, you can then give it to Vodafone, who will use it to transfer you across to their network.
Are Vodafone SIM only deals an option with poor credit?
Despite not being marketed specifically to people with bad credit, Vodafone's 30-day SIM only deals are available to customers with impaired ratings.
This type of plan doesn't require you to enter any long-term contracts, so you don't have to pass a credit check in order to sign up.
Can you use your Vodafone SIM only plan abroad?
Depending on your plan, if you signed up to a Vodafone SIM only deal before 11th August 2021, you should still be able to roam in over 80 countries at no extra cost.
However, signing up after this date means you'll incur extra charges depending on where you travel in the world, with payable destinations such as:
- Europe
- Australia
- The USA
- Southeast Asia
Charges will vary depending on the destination you're visiting.
What happens when you reach the end of your Vodafone SIM only contract?
Once your Vodafone SIM only plan ends, it should continue on a rolling basis thereafter, with no changes to the agreed-upon terms.
However, the end of your tariff also means:
- Freedom to switch to a new deal
- Renegotiation of terms
- Jumping to a completely different network
Compare Vodafone SIM only deals with other networks
See how Vodafone SIM only plans stack up against other UK mobile phone deals, including those offered by: