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Internet in Australia: roaming, eSIM, local SIM and VPN explained
Distances in Australia are vast, and that has a direct impact on your internet connection once you leave the coastal cities behind. Here's what you need to know.
Roaming with your own plan
Roaming with a non-Australian plan is usually expensive, a local solution is almost always cheaper, especially for a longer stay.
Local SIM or eSIM?
A local SIM is easy to buy at the airport, but arranging an eSIM before departure saves time and is just as reliable.
Costs
Budget around €20 to €35 for a generous two-week data plan.
Do you need a VPN?
Australia has no internet censorship, a VPN is mainly useful if you're backpacking and relying on shared hostel wifi a lot, where it adds extra security.
Practical tips
- Telstra has the widest coverage in rural and remote areas, Optus is often cheaper but mainly covers coastal cities
- In the Outback and on long road trips, signal can disappear for hours, plan your stops in advance
- Bushfire and weather warnings are often delivered through apps, make sure you have occasional signal even in remote areas
Ready for your trip across Australia?
Check out our eSIM tips and recommended plans for Australia.
See eSIM for Australia