Traveling worldwide is one of the most amazing experiences someone can have. Therefore, they need to be prepared for their journey, and knowing how to stay connected to the internet is vital. That’s why we will talk about how to use your cell phone in Israel today, as this information will significantly help you.
So, if you are traveling to Israel any time soon, this article will help you to understand some things that can save your life while being there, and that can also help your budget a lot.
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Can I use my cell phone in Israel?
Use cell phones in Israel? Is that possible? Of course, it is, and it is not as complicated as people may think. There are some things people have to keep in mind, such as, will they need a SIM card or a roaming service there?
But other than that, there’s nothing to actually worry about. You must check your cellphone’s network bands before traveling there to see if it can work in Israel. Read below to see which network bands work in Israel.
| Technology | Bands |
| 5G bands | 3500 (78) |
| 4G bands | LTE 700 (28), LTE 1500 (32), LTE 1800 (3), LTE 2100 (1) |
| 3G bands | UMTS 850, UMTS 900, UMTS 2100 |
| 2G bands | GSM 900, GSM 1800 |
What are the options for using a cell phone in Israel?
In case you are wondering with which option you can use a cell phone in Israel, there are many available. From eSIMs to roaming services, people have the chance to pick the alternative that suits them best.
eSIM for traveling abroad
The first alternative on our list will be International eSIMs. For those wondering what eSIMs for Israel are, these are basically digital SIM cards that people can take wherever they go while traveling worldwide.
Israel is part of the list of countries people can visit with an eSIM, and there are different providers that offer this service. For us, the best option is Holafly, so let’s see the prices of their eSIM Israel.
| Days of use | Amount of cellular data | Price (USD) |
| 5 days | Unlimited data | $19 |
| 7 days | Unlimited data | $27 |
| 10 days | Unlimited data | $34 |
| 15 days | Unlimited data | $47 |
| 20 days | Unlimited data | $54 |
Now, something is missing here. What about the advantages and disadvantages of using an eSIM?
Advantages
Just like it happens with any other product, there are some advantages to using an eSIM while traveling; here’s a list of what you should know:
- The eSIM won’t change the regular WhatsApp phone number people use.
- No need to subscribe to purchase a Holafly eSIM.
- People can activate an eSIM by only using a QR code.
- SIM and eSIM cards can work together.
- It gives access to high-speed connections while traveling in Israel.
- Unlimited data plans are available
- Recharge your eSIM through top-ups to use for more days.
Disadvantages
Now, let’s talk about the disadvantages of using an eSIM. There aren’t many, but it is worth mentioning them.
- eSIMs only work in last-gen devices.
- eSIMs don’t offer phone calls or text messages.
- Once installed, the eSIM can’t be switched to a different device.
International SIM Card
Nowadays, people can use International SIM cards when traveling worldwide. This is a perfect option as people can save a lot of money by using one, and there are many benefits people can get by using one.
For us, one of the most reliable options for people to use are online stores and local Israeli operators. Now, let’s talk about those pros and cons people must know about using a SIM card.
SIM card advantages
SIM cards have some advantages for their customers. The most important one is the chance to use them all around the world. But, let’s see what other things we have to say.
- Cheaper than other communication services.
- Some SIM cards give a new phone number to people at their destination.
- No need to change the WhatsApp number.
- Easy to activate once people have reached their destination.
SIM card negative aspects
Just like it happens with similar products, we have to talk about the disadvantages of this SIM card.
- Might not have the expected duration throughout the person’s journey.
- Only works on open-band devices.
- Plans and options tend to be more limited
- When you buy from online stores you must wait for international shipping before using it.
Pocket WiFi for Israel
Another alternative for people traveling to Israel is the Pocket WiFi device. These devices were quite famous back in the day when eSIMs and SIM cards weren’t available for traveling, and they are still an option nowadays.
The only thing to consider regarding the Pocket WiFi is the price, which is quite high. Most devices are rented for 50.00 to over 349.99 USD for a week. Still, it can be an option to consider.
Free WiFi in Israel
As we are talking about a highly visited place, the chances are that there are lots of free WiFi hotspots in Israel. It can be a good idea for people to use them, for an emergency or something similar, but we can’t really recommend relying on them.
Still, you can go ahead and find free WiFi while visiting the city, and you can use apps such as Avast Wi-Fi Finder, WinMan, or WiFi Map to make things easier.
Can I use my phone service in Israel?
In case you think using a roaming service is the best option for you, turns out, it’s also a viable option! International roaming is available with different companies in Israel, but you have to keep in mind that this service is pretty expensive.
Still, if you want to go ahead and use it, let’s dive deeper into this option. To be more specific, today we will talk about two different cellular operators people can rely on while being there, AT&T USA and Vodafone UK.
Using my cell phone in Israel with AT&T USA
AT&T is one of the most famous cellular operators in the United States. They have different plans for their customers and for travelers; they offer two different plans to make things easier for them.
One of these plans is only focused on giving people access to phone calls and text messages for a price of $15 per line, but that’s not what we are looking for.
On the other hand, people can use the International Pass, which gives access to cellular data and text messages, and phone calls. The main difference is the price, as it costs $10 per day, or people can go ahead and use only data for $2.05 per consumed MB.
Using my cell phone in Israel with Vodafone UK
Another option for people to consider is using Vodafone. In this case, this cellular operator is from the UK, so keep an eye on that if you are not living there.
The rates offered by Vodafone UK are accessible for some people, as they charge 6£/per day or 7.32$ approximately when it comes to their roaming service. Other than that, there’s nothing else people have to know about this service.
Local cellular operators in Israel
People can use cellular operators once they reach Israel; that’s true. But, these services are more focused on being accessible for locals, not for travelers. Still, if you think you want to give them a shot the options available are Cellcom, HOT Mobile, and Partner Mobile.
How much does it cost to use my cell phone in Israel?
Now that we have talked about the different services available for people who are visiting Israel, it is time to make a summary of all the options available for traveling there. It might be good for you to save this chart for the future if you want to compare prices for a future trip!
| Service | Internet tariff in Israel |
| eSIM card Israel | Unlimited data for 15 days for 47 USD |
| AT&T roaming in Israel | 2.05/MB or 10 USD per day. |
| Vodafone Roaming in Israel | 7.32 USD per day |
| Pocket WiFi for Israel | From 50.00 to 349.99 USD for a week of usage. |
| Public WiFi in Israel | Free |
Up to this point, we truly hope that everything we have told you here can help you make the perfect decision. Keep in mind that Holafly is one of the best possible options available to use for travelers.
We hope you can enjoy your trip to Israel and meet all those wonderful places while showing them to the world through your cellphone on social media!
