The Shetland Islands, Scotland’s northernmost archipelago, are known for their rugged coastlines, Viking heritage, and dramatic landscapes. Whether you’re watching puffins at Sumburgh Head, exploring the ancient ruins of Jarlshof, or enjoying the Up Helly Aa fire festival, staying connected ensures easy navigation, communication, and sharing your incredible experience.
With limited free Wi-Fi, spotty mobile coverage in remote areas, and high roaming costs, having a local SIM card or eSIM is the best way to ensure seamless internet access. This guide will help you find the best SIM and eSIM options, mobile networks, and connectivity tips while exploring the Shetland Islands.
Why Mobile Internet is Essential in the Shetland Islands
Due to the remote location of the Shetland Islands, Wi-Fi and mobile coverage can be unpredictable outside of main towns. Having your own mobile data ensures you can:
✔ Use GPS for navigation – Essential for driving on rural roads or hiking coastal trails.
✔ Check ferry schedules – Stay updated on routes between islands.
✔ Monitor weather conditions – Important for outdoor activities and boat trips.
✔ Stay in touch – Contact accommodations, tour guides, or family.
✔ Share your experience – Instantly upload stunning Shetland landscapes to social media!
Overview of Mobile Networks in the Shetland Islands
The Shetland Islands are served by four major UK mobile network providers: EE, Vodafone, O2, and Three.
1. EE (Best Coverage)
📶 Coverage: The most reliable network in the Shetland Islands, with strong signals in Lerwick, Scalloway, and main roads.
📡 Network Technology: 4G in towns, 3G in rural areas, and some 5G in larger settlements.
👍 Best For: Travelers needing the widest coverage across the islands.
2. Vodafone
📶 Coverage: Good in Lerwick and main villages, but weaker in remote areas.
📡 Network Technology: 4G in populated areas, but patchy service in rural locations.
👍 Best For: Affordable prepaid plans with decent coverage.
3. O2
📶 Coverage: Decent in Lerwick and major routes, but weak in rural areas.
📡 Network Technology: 4G in towns, 3G elsewhere, with limited rural service.
👍 Best For: Travelers staying in towns and villages.
4. Three
📶 Coverage: Limited outside Lerwick, with inconsistent rural reception.
📡 Network Technology: 4G in main towns, but weaker signals in remote regions.
👍 Best For: Budget-friendly data plans, but not ideal for full island coverage.
❗ Important Notes:
- EE provides the best overall coverage across the Shetland Islands.
- Vodafone and O2 offer decent service in populated areas, but struggle in rural regions.
- Expect weak or no signal in very remote locations, regardless of provider.
How to Get a SIM Card in the Shetland Islands
Since stores on the Shetland Islands are limited, it's best to buy a SIM card before arriving.
1. At UK Airports (Before Traveling to Shetland)
📍 EE, Vodafone, O2, and Three kiosks are available at Heathrow, Gatwick, Edinburgh, and Glasgow airports.
✅ Best option for international travelers to get connected immediately.
2. In Lerwick (Shetland Islands)
📍 Some small stores and post offices in Lerwick sell SIM cards, but options are limited.
✅ Best option if you didn’t get a SIM before arriving.
3. Online Prepaid SIMs (Before Your Trip)
📍 Order a prepaid SIM card from EE, Vodafone, O2, or Three online and have it delivered before your trip.
✅ Best for hassle-free setup before departure.
Best SIM Card Plans for Travelers
EE Prepaid Tourist Plan
💰 Cost: £15 GBP (~$19 USD)
📶 Data: 10GB (valid for 30 days)
📞 Features: Includes UK calls and texts, and free EU roaming.
✅ Best For: Reliable coverage across Shetland and beyond.
Vodafone Prepaid Tourist Plan
💰 Cost: £20 GBP (~$25 USD)
📶 Data: 15GB (valid for 30 days)
📞 Features: Free international calling minutes.
✅ Best For: Visitors needing more data and global connectivity.
O2 & Three Prepaid Plans
💰 Cost: £10-£20 GBP (~$12-$25 USD)
📶 Data: 5GB-20GB (varies by plan)
📞 Features: Free social media access, limited roaming.
✅ Best For: Budget-conscious travelers staying in towns.
eSIM Options in the Shetland Islands
If your phone supports eSIM technology, this is a quick and easy alternative to physical SIM cards.
Local eSIM Providers
📲 EE eSIM – Available in EE stores and online.
📲 Vodafone eSIM – Purchase through Vodafone’s website or retail stores.
International eSIM Providers
🌎 Airalo – Starts at $10 USD for 3GB (7 days).
🌎 Holafly – Offers unlimited data from $27 USD (5 days).
eSIMs are ideal for travelers who want fast activation without swapping physical SIM cards.
Free Wi-Fi in the Shetland Islands
Wi-Fi is available but limited. Here’s where you can find it:
- Hotels & Guesthouses – Most accommodations offer free Wi-Fi, but speeds may be slow.
- Cafés & Restaurants – Places like The Dowry in Lerwick and Fjara Café Bar offer Wi-Fi for customers.
- Public Spaces – Some visitor centers and ferry terminals have limited free Wi-Fi.
For reliable connectivity, using a SIM card or eSIM is recommended.
Tips for Staying Connected in the Shetland Islands
✔ Buy Your SIM Before Arriving – Options are limited on the islands, so get a SIM in mainland Scotland or online.
✔ Activate Your SIM in the Store – If buying locally, ask store staff to set up your SIM.
✔ Download Offline Maps – Google Maps and MAPS.ME are useful for remote navigation.
✔ Monitor Your Data Usage – Use apps like My Data Manager to avoid overages.
✔ Consider a Pocket Wi-Fi – If traveling in a group, renting a portable Wi-Fi device may be more cost-effective.
Explore the Shetland Islands with Seamless Connectivity
Whether you choose a local SIM, an eSIM, or rely on free Wi-Fi, staying connected in the Shetland Islands enhances your experience. From navigating scenic roads to booking local experiences, a good mobile connection ensures a smooth and memorable trip.
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