How to Buy a German SIM Card at Frankfurt Airport

Before I go on trips, I try to think of all of the little things that will make our lives a little easier while traveling.

I spent some time googling where to purchase a SIM card at Frankfurt Airport before our recent trip to Germany and wasn't having luck finding specific instructions.

I knew I wanted to be able to stay connected to friends and family, be able to look up directions, and have access to the Internet on long train rides. 

Telecommunications is SO much more affordable in Europe than it is in the USA so I always recommend you buy a SIM card when you arrive at your destination instead of getting an international phone plan with your provider at home.

Here's what to do if you'd like to buy a prepaid SIM card at Frankfurt airport:

Before You Go (3 Days Before Departure)

Make sure your phone is unlocked.

If you did not purchase an unlocked phone, you'll need to make sure your phone is unlocked, meaning it can be used with other phone providers.

How to Unlock Your Phone with AT&T Online

If you are in the USA and use AT&T, unlocking a device is simple and can be done online by requesting a phone unlock here.

1. First, you verify your device eligibility.
2. Then, follow a few steps to submit your request. Be sure to have the wireless number and customer name on the account handy.
3. You'll find out by email whether your device has been successfully unlocked. My request was answered within 2 hours but AT&T does say it can take up to 2 days.

There is a Supermarket at Frankfurt Airport

Yes - there is a supermarket in the basement of the Frankfurt Airport. If you're looking for where to eat on a budget at the Frankfurt Airport, you are in luck. The supermarket literally has everything.

The most affordable option to buy a German SIM card is at the supermarket. You can find it by following the signs for the train station which is downstairs below the terminals. It'll feel like you're walking through the subway.

Where is the Supermarket at the Frankfurt Airport (FRA)?

The supermarket is called Tegut and it's located in Terminal 1, Halle C, on the ground floor (so you'll need to take the stairs or escalator down). Walk down, following the signs for the train station and it'll be on your right hand side.  

In order to buy the SIM card, you'll need to go to wait in line at the cash registers. The various SIM cards are hanging up on the right hand side of the first cashier.

How to Buy a SIM card in German

You can request a SIM card from the cashier in German by saying:

"Ich möchte eine neue SIM-Karte für mein Handy kaufen." 

meaning

"I would like to buy a new SIM card for my cell phone."

If you're looking to use the internet, texting, and calling, I highly recommend this option from Vodafone with 1 GB data + calls and texts for under EUR 10.

​It's exactly €9,99 which is currently approximately $11.14.

It's fun to stay connected and to have a German phone number (even if it's just for a little while).

And even better - as of June, 2017 there are no more mobile roaming fees throughout the European Union.

So, you can use your German SIM card throughout your travels throughout the EU, much like you would use your American SIM card throughout the United States.

Let me know if you have any questions!
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