One of the first things you’ll need after moving to Spain is a Spanish phone number. Whether you’re here as an auxiliar, student, digital nomad, or long-term resident, having a local phone plan makes everyday life so much easier. From apartment viewings and bank appointments to ordering food and verifying your identity online, you’ll quickly realize just how important it is.
When I first moved to Spain, I didn’t put much thought into which phone carrier I chose. I figured they were all pretty similar. Looking back, I wish I had done a little more research because not all providers offer the same experience.
I originally signed up with Orange, and while it worked in the beginning, I started running into issues almost every month. Between billing problems, account frustrations, and customer service headaches, managing my phone plan became more stressful than it needed to be. Eventually, I decided enough was enough and canceled my contract so I could switch to another provider.
If you’ve read my other blog post about my experience with international calling in Spain, then you already know I learned a few lessons the hard way. Learn about my mistake -> Call Me Maybe… Just Not on My iPhone: A €90 Lesson in Spain. Between unexpected charges and navigating a new phone system in another country, it definitely wasn’t the smoothest start. Sometimes, though, those experiences help you find something much better.
After leaving Orange, I signed up with Vodafone, and honestly, I haven’t looked back. For me, Vodafone has been exactly what I wanted in a phone carrier: simple, reliable, and easy to manage. Here are a few reasons I’ve been happy with it:
- The Vodafone app is easy to download and actually works.
- Managing my account is simple and straightforward.
- I haven’t experienced hidden fees or surprise charges.
- I’ve never run out of mobile data.
- My monthly bill has been consistent and predictable.
I currently have the 10.99€ monthly plan, and it’s been more than enough for my everyday needs. There may have been a couple of months where my bill was a few cents higher, but nothing significant or unexpected. After dealing with billing issues before, having a phone plan that simply works has been such a relief.
Of course, everyone’s experience is different, and the best carrier for you may depend on where you live and how you use your phone. That being said, based on my own experience living in Spain, Vodafone has been my favorite phone carrier by far. It’s reliable, affordable, and I haven’t had to constantly think about my phone plan, which is exactly how it should be.
If you’re preparing to move to Spain and are overwhelmed by all the different options, Vodafone is the company I personally recommend to friends and fellow auxiliares. If you’re thinking about signing up for Vodafone, you can use my referral link below. If you register through the link and verify your email, you’ll receive €25 in credit, which is a nice little bonus when you’re settling into life in Spain. -> Plan Amigo Vodafone
Moving abroad comes with enough challenges. Your phone plan shouldn’t be one of them. While my experience with Orange taught me a few valuable lessons, I’m grateful it eventually led me to Vodafone. It’s been reliable, affordable, and hassle-free, which is exactly what I was looking for.
Hopefully, this helps make your move to Spain just a little bit easier. And if you have any questions about setting up your phone plan or adjusting to life in Spain, feel free to explore my other Spain guides here on the blog. I’m always happy to share what I’ve learned along the way.
Vodafone Roaming Countries:
All EU countries, the UK (Including Jersey, Guernsey, and the Isle of Man), Switzerland, Norway, Iceland, Türkiye, Liechtenstein, Vatican City, Monaco, and Kosovo. (Add the USA if you have the 15€ prepaid or more)
Love always,
American Girl Meets World
