Planning a trip to Thailand? Staying connected is crucial, and choosing the right SIM card can make all the difference. With several mobile operators offering different plans, finding the best SIM card that suits your needs is essential. Whether you need unlimited data for seamless social media sharing or just enough to check maps and messages, Thailand’s SIM card options cater to every traveller’s requirements. Whether you prioritise speed, coverage, or cost, there’s a perfect SIM card waiting for you in Thailand.
Travelling in Thailand involves selecting the right SIM card to stay connected. Two main types cater to different preferences and requirements:
| Feature | Physical SIM Cards | eSIM Options |
|---|---|---|
| Availability | Widely available at airports and major stores | Can be activated through an app or QR code |
| Providers | DTAC, AIS, TrueMove | Holafly and others |
| Data plans | Ranges from 15GB (8 days) to 50GB (30 days) | Offers unlimited data plans from 4 to 30 days |
| Activation | Insert SIM into the device; simple setup | Activate via the app or scan the QR code |
| Registration requirement | Passport required for tourists | No physical registration, digital activation |
| Convenience | Requires physical SIM insertion | No need to change physical SIM cards |
| Device compatibility | Works with all SIM-compatible devices | Requires eSIM-compatible devices |
Top 5 SIM cards to get in Thailand
Purchasing a SIM card upon arrival is straightforward. Present your passport to the store representative, select your preferred plan, and you’re ready to go. This simplicity makes Thailand SIM cards one of the best options for travellers in 2024.
Before we delve into the top 5 SIM cards you can get in Thailand, You can check out this video guide by Traveltomtom, You can find out tourist insights on how to buy a SIM Card for Thailand at Bangkok Airport.
Furthermore: here is a list of the best options you can explore.
AIS 5G SIM
AIS 5G SIM is a popular choice among travellers in Thailand, providing broad 5G coverage that extends across cities, tourist destinations, and rural regions. It offers flexible data plans designed for short-term use, ranging from 8 to 30 days with generous data allowances, ideal for browsing, video streaming, and navigation. The SIM also includes unlimited calls within the AIS network, ensuring easy local communication.
Activation is quick and straightforward, requiring only a passport, and the SIM card can be purchased at airports, convenience stores, and shopping malls across Thailand. AIS is known for its stable network and includes added perks like discounts on tourist attractions, making it an ideal choice for staying connected throughout your journey.
TrueMove H 5G SIM
TrueMove H 5G SIM is one of the most preferred SIM cards in Thailand, especially for travellers seeking high-speed connectivity and reliable coverage throughout the country. It offers 5G network access that spans across cities, tourist hotspots, and even remote areas, ensuring consistent data speeds. This includes unlimited data options, with package durations ranging from 7 to 30 days, making it suitable for short or extended visits.
This SIM also provides free access to TrueMove Wi-Fi hotspots located across Thailand, adding an extra layer of convenience for those needing a constant internet connection. The SIM can be easily purchased at airports, convenience stores, and other major retail locations, and activation is simple with just a passport. TrueMove H’s widespread coverage and added benefits make it an attractive choice for those visiting Thailand.
DTAC SIM
DTAC SIM is a great option for travellers and residents in Thailand looking for affordable yet reliable connectivity. The DTAC Happy Tourist SIM offers a variety of short-term data packages with validity ranging from 7 to 30 days, designed to fit different travel needs. The SIM provides access to 4G/5G networks with good coverage in cities and tourist areas, ensuring a stable internet experience.
It also includes local call minutes and international call credits, which is beneficial for tourists needing to stay in touch with both local contacts and family overseas. Available at airports, convenience stores, and shopping centres, They are easy to purchase and activate with a passport. The simplicity of setup, combined with competitive pricing, makes DTAC an excellent option for travellers on a budget.
My by CAT Tourist SIM
My by CAT Tourist SIM is an affordable SIM card option in Thailand, ideal for travellers seeking a budget-friendly way to stay connected. The SIM card provides 4G coverage in major urban and tourist areas, with data plans ranging from 7 to 15 days, perfect for short visits. Although it primarily offers 4G connectivity, It has been expanding its 5G coverage in selected areas.
The data plans include unlimited data at slightly lower speeds, which is great for general browsing, social media use, and navigation. The SIM can be easily purchased at airports, convenience stores, and other retail outlets, and activation requires only a passport. Its simplicity, affordability, and steady network make it an excellent option for budget-conscious travellers who want dependable connectivity without overspending.
TOT Mobile SIM
TOT Mobile SIM is a good option for travellers in Thailand looking for flexible data plans for short-term stays. The SIM card provides reliable 4G connectivity with expanding 5G coverage in urban and tourist regions, ensuring users have a stable connection for general browsing, navigation, and social media. TOT Mobile SIM offers daily, weekly, and monthly plans, allowing users to select a package that best suits their trip length and data needs.
The SIM is easy to purchase at airports, convenience stores, and shopping centres, with a simple registration process requiring a passport. TOT Mobile is known for its consistency in network performance and flexibility, making it a suitable choice for travellers who want adaptable options with dependable service.
Comparison table on the basis of price range
| SIM Card | Minimum Recharge Price (Thai Baht) | Maximum Recharge Price (Thai baht) | Details |
|---|---|---|---|
| AIS 5G SIM | 299 | 899 | Options ranging from 15GB for 8 days to 50GB for 30 days are consistent with AIS’s offerings for tourists. |
| TrueMove H 5G SIM | 299 | 799 | Offers unlimited data with free Wi-Fi hotspots nationwide, which aligns with the tourist SIM offerings TrueMove H provides. |
| DTAC SIM | 199 | 699 | Budget-friendly with local calls and international credit is accurate, as DTAC focuses on affordability for tourists. |
| My by CAT Tourist SIM | 150 | 399 | Offers affordable data plans with unlimited data at a lower speed, which is in line with My by CAT’s budget-oriented services. |
| TOT Mobile SIM | 200 | 500 | Flexible daily, weekly, and monthly plans for short-term usage match TOT Mobile’s offerings for flexible, short-term data packages. |
Advantages of using local SIM Cards
Local SIM cards in Thailand offer numerous benefits for travellers. These include:
Cost-efficiency: Local SIM cards typically remain cheaper than international roaming charges. This advantage becomes more pronounced for longer stays or data-heavy activities.
Enhanced coverage and speed: With a Thai SIM card, you tap directly into robust 4G and 5G networks. This access ensures reliable connectivity even in remote locations, enhancing your travel experience.
Flexibility in plans: You can choose from various packages, such as short-term data-heavy plans or long-term unlimited options. Many plans also include perks like unlimited social media data, aligning with modern data usage trends.
The convenience of purchase and setup: SIM cards are easily available at airports, official stores, and local shops. Usually, you just need your passport for registration, making the process straightforward.
In-person support at local stores: If issues arise, face-to-face customer service provides quick solutions, ensuring you’re not left without connectivity at crucial times.
With top providers like DTAC, AIS, and TrueMove offering a variety of plans, you can find one that suits your specific needs. Whether you opt for a physical SIM or the convenience of an eSIM, the process is straightforward and hassle-free. Enjoy the benefits of local rates, extensive coverage, and reliable internet access without the worry of international roaming charges. Get your options and travel around Thailand without too much concern or hassle.
Frequently asked questions
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