Hoera, you’ve landed in the Netherlands, tried your first stroopwafel, and now you’re looking for the perfect unlimited data plan to power your mobile phone — and, ultimately, your new lifestyle as an aspiring Dutchie.
However, looking for the perfect unlimited data plan isn’t as easy as eating boterkoek.
First of all, unlimited data isn’t really unlimited. Then there are the fair use policies and the manual upgrades… basically, there are a wealth of confusing terms.
We’ve been there, so geen stress, we’ve got something to help you through all the double Dutch: a guide to unlimited mobile data plans in the Netherlands. 🙌
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❓ What is an unlimited data plan?
An unlimited data plan is pretty much exactly what it says on the tin!
This is a mobile plan that (theoretically) lets you use as much internet data as you’d like, giving you far more freedom than a stereotypical data package.
That means you can WhatsApp, surf the web, watch YouTube, or even send Tikkies as much as you like. They’re perfect if you don’t have a home internet subscription, too!
Why do these unlimited data plans seem to have limits?
Despite the name, many unlimited data plans in the Netherlands aren’t really ‘unlimited’ — you can’t hotspot an entire office, unfortunately.
Instead, mobile data is often capped at a certain amount between 20GB to 4GB per day, depending on your mobile data provider.
Luckily, most providers will then let you grab free top-ups through a text message or an app!
The best unlimited data providers in the Netherlands
When it comes to unlimited data providers, the Netherlands has more choices than flavours of hagelslag at an Albert Heijn.
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To make things a little easier for you to decide, here are the best unlimited data providers in the Netherlands!👇
✈️ Best unlimited data SIM for those travelling Europe: KPN
With three unlimited data packages to choose from, KPN also offers you hefty data limits of 40 to 75 GB per month within the EU.
Even better? Though KPN is generally on the pricey side, its expansive and ultra-reliable 5G network ensure that you’re never left without a connection when you need one.
🌍 Best Dutch unlimited data SIM for people who stream videos: Vodafone
The best choice for avid internet users, Vodafone’s Red Unlimited plan gives you a generous 10 GB per day to binge all your favourite shows — with the option to activate free bundles of 2 GB if you’re ever running out.
Maar, let op: with no monthly terminable option, this plan is generally for the long-stays.
📱 Best Dutch SIM for people who want speed and coverage: Odido
Thanks to speeds of up to 1 Gbit/s and comprehensive 4G and 5G coverage, Odido’s four unlimited data plans are ideal for those who want ultra-fast and reliable internet.
Though Odido only offers 1- to 2-year plans, you’ve got full freedom to adjust your plan monthly or opt for extra features. (Hmm, that HBO Max subscription sounds rather fun! 😉)
💰 Cheapest unlimited data SIM card in the Netherlands: Budget Mobiel
Combining sheer affordability with unlimited data and excellent 5G coverage, Budget Mobiel is a stellar option for data-hungry users who are watching their wallets.
Although this plan only hits upload speeds of 5Mbps, it offers you a monthly terminable option — ensuring that you’re never stuck paying for data you won’t use.
Things to consider before getting an unlimited data plan in the Netherlands
As with any data plan, there are a few things to mull over before you whip out your debit card and plonk down €30 per month.
The fair-use policy
Most mobile data providers have a fair use policy that dictates the terms under which they provide unlimited data.
READ MORE | 5 reasons why a SIM-only subscription is the best choice for internationals in the NL
This is intended to ensure that consumers do not use the service for things it’s not intended for, which generally includes:
- using the mobile data plan as a replacement for a fixed internet connection
- using large amounts of mobile data (for example, to stream films over Netflix)
To calculate the amount of data that may reasonably fall under “fair use”, data providers look at the average consumption of mobile data per person per day in the Netherlands.
There are manual upgrades for unlimited data plans
If you’re a heavy data user like me, I’ve found that a great way of extending your data plan is by requesting manual upgrades of 1GB, 2GB, or higher.
This means that if you’ve almost used up your daily data allowance, you won’t be left stranded with no mobile data.
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As the daily data allowance resets each day, you’ll only need to pay for upgrades on days with the highest data usage.
Unlimited data plans in the Netherlands and travelling abroad
Well, unlimited data is all fine and dandy, but I’m sure you’re dying to find out what happens to your Dutch data package when you travel.
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Worry no longer because we’re here to answer your burning questions. 🙌
Can I use my unlimited data outside of the Netherlands?
Maybe you have a romantic weekend planned in Italy, and you’re wondering if your unlimited data package will help you upload some super #leuk pictures to the ‘gram? 📸
Blame it on EU regulations, but you likely won’t have access to the entirety of your unlimited data package whilst abroad.
Most data providers in the Netherlands will allow you to use a large bundle of data known as a roaming allowance. Any data usage over this, unfortunately, you’ll need to pay extra for.
Will my unlimited data work outside of the EU?
If you’ve decided on a thrilling vacation outside of the EU and have your bags packed for Iceland, Norway, or Liechtenstein, you’ll still have access to much of your data package.
This is because these countries are in the EEA (European Economic Area) and can also enjoy “roam like at home” privileges.
That tropical vacay to Bali, on the other hand?
The drinks may be flowing, and the waters may be stunningly blue, but you’ll likely need to splurge on a roaming package. 🏝️
Let op! If you exceed the EU data limits, your internet speed may be reduced. This means that while you’ll still be connected to the web, your loading time will take a hit.
Having read the whats, whys, and hows of unlimited data in the Netherlands, we hope you feel you can now make the best choice for you and your phone. 🙌
Will you be checking out an unlimited data plan? Tell us all about it in the comments below!
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Unlimited data plans in the Netherlands: FAQ
Are unlimited data plans in the Netherlands expensive?
Unlimited data plans in the Netherlands are not particularly cheap, averaging at around €21-€37 per month.
Can I share my unlimited data?
This depends on the mobile data provider. Some Dutch phone providers, like KPN, will allow you to share up to 75GB per month via the app, whilst others actively dissuade consumers from sharing data.
Does mobile data work well in the Netherlands?
Given that the Netherlands ranked sixth place on a list of countries with the fastest mobile internet speeds in the world, you’ll find that mobile data offers a solid and speedy connection here. 😉
My mobile data doesn’t work in the Netherlands, why is this?
There are many possible reasons why your mobile data plan isn’t working in the Netherlands.
Either your mobile data provider does not allow roaming in the Netherlands, you haven’t topped up your mobile subscription, or there is an issue with your subscription.
We suggest contacting your service provider.
Do I need a Dutch phone to get an unlimited data plan in the Netherlands?
No, you needn’t have a Dutch phone. However, as long as you have a Dutch SIM, you’ll be able to use an unlimited data plan in the Netherlands.