giffgaff Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in giffgaff SIM deals? All plans include a generous data allowance, unlimited UK calls and unlimited UK texts. EU roaming is included. International calls are charged on a Pay As You Go basis using Airtime Credit.

What is the difference between PAYG, monthly rolling and contract? PAYG plans are one-off bundles with no renewal. Monthly rolling plans auto-renew and offer more data. 18-month contracts offer the most data but require a commitment. All include unlimited calls, texts and 5G.

What does 'Always On' mean? It means you always have data available. After your first 80 GB, speed is reduced to 384 kbps between 8 am and midnight.

How do I activate my giffgaff SIM? Go to giffgaff.com/activate, enter your 6-digit activation code, create an account, and choose a plan or top up. Activation usually takes 5 to 30 minutes.

What is the minimum payment to activate? £6 with a monthly plan by card, or £10 with a voucher or Airtime Credit.

Can I activate from outside the UK? Yes — the online process works anywhere, but to use the SIM you'll need to be in the UK first.

Can I keep my phone number? Yes. Text PAC to 65075 from your current SIM to get your Porting Authorisation Code within 60 seconds. Enter it on your giffgaff dashboard after activation.

How long does the transfer take? Most transfers complete within one working day.

Do I need to cancel my old network? No — using a PAC automatically closes your old account.

What network does giffgaff use? giffgaff runs on the O2 network, covering approximately 99% of the UK population for 4G with growing 5G coverage.

Does giffgaff support 5G? Yes, all plans include 5G at no extra cost. You'll need a 5G-compatible device and 5G coverage in your area.

Has 3G been switched off? Yes, the O2 3G network has been fully switched off. You'll need a 4G or 5G device for data.

Can I use giffgaff abroad? Yes. In the EU, you can use up to 5 GB of your data plus your UK calls and texts at no extra cost.

How do I make international calls? Dial +[country code][number]. Calls are charged per minute from Airtime Credit. Rates vary by destination.

Are there travel add-ons? Yes, travel add-ons are available for non-EU destinations. Buy them from your online account.

What happens if I run out of data? You can start a new plan early, buy a data add-on, or use Airtime Credit at standard rates.

What is the minimum top-up? £10, regardless of payment method.

Is tethering allowed? Yes, on all plans with a limited data allowance. The only exception is the unlimited data plan.

How do I change my plan? Through your online account or the giffgaff app. Upgrades take effect immediately; downgrades apply at next renewal.

Can I cancel anytime? PAYG and monthly rolling plans can be cancelled without penalty. 18-month contracts carry an early termination charge.

Can I use an unlocked phone? Yes, any unlocked phone works with giffgaff. If locked to another network, request an unlock from your provider.

My mobile data isn't working — what should I do? Check your APN settings are correct (APN: giffgaff.com, Username: gg, Password: p), restart your device, and confirm you have an active plan or credit. See our APN Settings Guide for full instructions.

What is my default SIM PIN? The default giffgaff SIM PIN is 5555. See our PIN Code Guide to change it.

My SIM is blocked — how do I get my PUK? Log in at giffgaff.com/support/puk. See our PUK Code Guide for the full process.