Best SIM Card in Thailand for Tourists in 2024

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Buying a SIM card for Thailand is one of your first priorities upon landing. For solo travelers especially, choosing the right SIM card is crucial, not just for safety but for practicalities like navigation or calling a Grab taxi.

During my six months living in Chiang Mai and many solo adventures across Thailand, I’ve always relied on a solid data connection to keep me safe and connected. 

Once, a friend’s motorbike broke down miles from anywhere—we got help quickly, thanks to my mobile data. A solid data connection can be your lifeline.

I recommend starting with an Airalo eSIM for most travelers because it’s affordable and can be set up before departure, ensuring you’re connected immediately upon arrival. 

Alternatively, you can easily pick up a prepaid Bangkok SIM card at Bangkok Airport or any major shopping mall–AIS and TrueMove are the most reliable networks.

Let me guide you through finding the best SIM card option for your Thai adventure!

Best eSIM for Thailand

Opting for an eSIM in Thailand (instead of a physical SIM card) offers a seamless and convenient way to stay connected as soon as you land. 

I’ve used both types of SIMs, and there’s no difference except that one you have to pick up and physically install and the other you do online.

If you don’t want an eSIM, skip to the next section.

I recommend Airalo eSIM for several reasons, particularly its ease of setup and flexibility across multiple Asian countries. 

You can choose from two appealing Thailand SIM Card packages (updated May 2024): 

• 10-day plan with 50GB of data and 100 minutes of calling for just $9.90 USD 

• Unlimited data and calling plan for 15 days at $19.95 USD

Both options are 5G ready, ensuring fast internet speeds.

👉 I highly recommend Airalo eSIM for travelers to Thailand — it’s affordable, easy to set up before your trip, and provides seamless connectivity the moment you land, making it the perfect choice for hassle-free travel.

What is an eSIM?

An eSIM, or electronic SIM, is a digital version of a traditional SIM card, allowing you to activate a cellular plan without the physical card. 

It eliminates the need to swap out SIM cards. You can set up your Airalo eSIM before you leave home—just a couple of minutes of your time—and you don’t have to deal with any hidden fees or wait in line at a kiosk after a long flight.

How to Setup Your Airalo eSIM for Thailand

1. Visit Airalo.com.

2. Choose the type of eSIM you need: local for single-country travel, regional for multi-country visits in Asia (covering 18 countries, including Thailand, Vietnam, Laos, Malaysia, and Singapore), or global for worldwide travel.

3. Select the desired data amount and duration.

4. Purchase and install your eSIM. To maximize its validity, activate it the day of or the day before your trip starts.

5. Once your trip ends, switch back to your usual SIM.

Airalo offers 24/7 support, making it a worry-free choice for connectivity abroad. Just ensure your phone is eSIM-compatible before making a purchase. eSIMs make staying connected so easy!

Best Mobile Network in Thailand for Tourists

When choosing a SIM card in Thailand, your top priorities should likely be coverage and data speeds, especially if you’re traveling through urban and rural areas. Thailand boasts strong network coverage overall, but there are differences worth noting among the top providers:

AIS SIM Card for Foreigners – #1 4G/5G Network in Thailand

This is the best SIM Card in Thailand for tourists! I was on a scooter adventure in the countryside and my friend’s AIS SIM card still had service while my dtac SIM was struggling.

Known as the best network with robust 4G and 5G services, AIS is slightly more expensive but offers the most reliable coverage. 

They offer several tourist packages, such as:

• 30 days: $25 USD (899 baht) for 50GB of high-speed internet

• 15 days: $16 USD (599 baht) for 30GB of high-speed internet

• 8 days: $8 USD (299 baht) for 15GB and 50 baht of credit

Find more about AIS SIM Card packages here.

True Move

This provider stands out with an amazing 5G network and competitive pricing.

Their tourist packages include unlimited calls within Thailand and options like:

• 8 days: $12 USD (449 baht) for unlimited data

• 15 days: $19 USD (699 baht) for unlimited data

• 30 days: $33 USD (1,199 baht) for unlimited data

Explore True Move SIM Card packages here.

DTAC

While coverage isn’t as reliable and data is not as fast as AIS or True Move, DTAC offers satisfactory coverage. 

I’ve used DTAC a lot and rarely have any issues with coverage, so this is a fine option. However, since True Move is currently offering the same SIM card prices, you’re better off going with them.

Their Happy Tourist Infinite SIM plans are great for those needing unlimited internet:

• 8 days: $12 USD (449 baht) for unlimited data

• 15 days: $19 USD (699 baht) for unlimited data

• 30 days: $33 USD (1,199 baht) for unlimited data

Check out DTAC’s options here.

Thailand Tourist SIM Card Price

Do You Need a SIM Card in Thailand?

Could you manage without a data connection in Thailand? Technically, yes, since many restaurants and cafes offer free internet. But let me share why I find staying connected crucial, especially as a solo female traveler.

With a Thai SIM card in your phone, you have instant access to essential services that make traveling smoother and safer. You can navigate using online maps, order a Grab taxi, check train schedules and make bookings, or even call for help in emergencies—all from your phone.

When I had a corporate job, I used my carrier’s international roaming, which cost an extra $10/day. This added a whopping $140 USD to a two-week trip, and the connection was frustratingly slow and unreliable.

Now, living part-time in Thailand, I spend about $1 USD per day for unlimited data—talk about a game-changer! I sometimes use my phone as a hotspot when my apartment’s internet is acting up.

The setup process for a SIM card in Thailand is easy. All you need is an unlocked phone and your passport. 

Pro Tips for Buying a SIM Card in Thailand

• Check Phone Compatibility: Unlock your phone before traveling. If unsure, contact your provider in your home country. It took me just a few minutes online to do it.

• Consider eSIMs: For the easiest setup and immediate connectivity upon landing, opt for an eSIM. You can set it up online before departure or when you land.

• Airport vs. City Purchase: Every international airport in Thailand has SIM Card kiosks. While convenient, SIM cards at the airport can be a little pricier than those in the city center. If you’re budget-conscious, consider waiting until you reach the city. “Free” SIM Cards in Thailand usually come with very little GB loaded.

• Check Operating Hours: If landing in places like Chiang Mai, note that airport SIM card stores may close early. You might need to wait until the next day to purchase one at a local mall.

• Inquire About Data Speeds: Always ask about maximum data speeds. Deals may seem appealing, but lower speeds hamper streaming and heavy internet use.

• Bring Your Passport: You’ll need your passport when purchasing a SIM card in Thailand. You can buy up to 3 Thailand Tourist SIM Cards per passport.

• Understand SIM Slots: If your phone has a single SIM card slot, safely store your home SIM when switching to a Thai SIM. I usually tape it to the inside of my phone case.

• Switch Home Network to eSIM: If possible, switch your home network to an eSIM so your phone’s physical SIM slot is free for travel. That’s what I did!

• Know Your New Number: Your Thai phone number will start with the country code +66.

• Top Up as Needed: It’s easy to top up your SIM card with more data or validity. This can usually be done at a local store or online, though apps can be tricky to navigate.

• One-Time SIM Card Fee: Most physical SIM cards come with a small initial charge, but there’s no further cost as long as the SIM remains active.

Where to Buy SIM Cards in Thailand

Finding a SIM card in Thailand is straightforward, whether you opt for an eSIM or a traditional SIM card. 

Upon landing, the simplest way to ensure connectivity is to purchase an Airalo eSIM online before you depart. 

For those who prefer a physical SIM card, every international airport in Thailand has multiple SIM card kiosks in the arrivals halls or near baggage claim. 

These kiosks are very convenient, although prices can be slightly higher than other locations. If you’re not in a rush, you might find better deals at local malls, where I usually purchase mine. 

These stores are easy to access, offer competitive pricing, and the staff often speak some English, making the transaction smoother for travelers.

When purchasing a SIM card, remember to bring your passport. The store will likely take a photo or a copy of it, as your SIM card needs to be registered under your name and passport number. Note that there is a limit of three SIM cards per passport.

Prices are fixed and displayed, and the staff will set up the SIM card for you, ensuring you have internet within minutes. Be prepared to pay in cash, as this is the common payment method for SIM purchases.

While SIM cards can also be found at convenience stores like 7Eleven, I recommend against this unless you’re fluent in Thai. 

Conclusion: Best Tourist SIM Card in Thailand

Buying a SIM card in Thailand is more than a convenience—it’s necessary. 

Thailand has excellent mobile coverage, even in more remote areas, ensuring you can rely on your mobile services when you need them most.

Before you fly out, make sure your phone is unlocked or you won’t be able to use a SIM card! I’ve seen so many travelers make this mistake.

I recommend the Airalo eSIM for most travelers. It’s so easy to activate and provides immediate internet access.

For travelers who prefer a physical SIM, the best Thailand SIM cards are AIS or TrueMove. Upon arrival at the airport, you can purchase these SIM cards, though you might find slightly better prices if you venture into the city centers and shop at local malls.

Now that you know the best way to stay connected in Thailand, it’s time to start thinking about transportation.

Riding a scooter in Thailand is a fantastic way to explore the country at your own pace, but before you do, read my best tips for riding a motorbike in Thailand!