Staying connected while traveling in Thailand is important for navigation, communication and making the most of your trip. Whether you're visiting for a few days or a few weeks, choosing the right SIM card can help you access mobile data, use local apps and avoid high roaming fees. In this guide, you'll find everything you need to know about tourist SIM cards in Thailand, including the best options, prices, coverage and where to buy them.

Thailand Travel SIM Cards

Thailand travel SIM cards are ideal for short-term visitors and offer good value for data, local calls and basic connectivity needs. These SIM cards are widely available at international airports, convenience stores like 7-Eleven or FamilyMart, as well as online before your trip. Most tourist SIMs come with preloaded data and local call minutes. Common features include:

• Packages that include mobile data, voice calls, and SMS, often with a strong focus on high-speed data.

• Validity periods typically between 7 and 30 days depending on the package.

• Quick and simple activation, usually ready to use right after insertion, though ID verification (passport scan) is required due to local regulations.

• English-language assistance is available at major airport kiosks and through official telecom shops in tourist areas, but may be limited in rural regions.

When choosing a SIM card in Thailand, think about how long you'll be staying and how much data you’ll need. Short-term plans usually offer 5GB to 15GB of data for 7 to 15 days, while larger packages may include 30GB or more for longer stays. Unlimited data options are also available, often with a daily fair usage policy.

Make sure your phone is unlocked and supports Thailand’s major network bands. Most carriers use 4G LTE bands such as Band 1, Band 3, Band 8, Band 40, and sometimes Band 5. For 5G, common bands include n41 and n258 (with emerging use of n28 and n77). [1]

For travelers looking for a digital option, you can also visit our eSIM Thailand page or check out our guides on the Best eSIM for Thailand and Roaming Charges in Thailand.

Prepaid SIM Cards for Thailand

Prepaid SIM cards are widely used by travelers visiting Thailand. They offer flexibility and can be purchased easily without any long-term commitment. The main Thai mobile operators such as AIS, TrueMove H and DTAC provide prepaid SIM cards that are available at international airports, local shops and popular convenience store chains throughout the country. To complete the purchase, you must present your passport for registration, as required by local law. These SIM cards often include a combination of data, local call minutes and sometimes international credit. If you expect to use a large amount of mobile data or plan to call abroad frequently, it is recommended to compare different plan options in advance.

Thailand Mobile Data Plans for Tourists

Mobile data plans in Thailand are built to serve both short-term visitors and those planning a longer stay. Whether you're in the country for a few days or several weeks, you’ll find different options that match your data needs and travel duration.

A 7-day package is usually enough for typical use like maps, chat apps and browsing. For longer trips, 30-day plans offer higher data limits or unlimited access, sometimes with additional perks like app access or tourist offers. Before choosing a plan, think about how much mobile data you’ll need and whether Wi-Fi will be available at your hotel or other places you visit.

While physical SIM cards remain a popular choice, many travelers are now using eSIM options for greater flexibility. These digital plans can be set up in advance and managed directly from your device, making them a simple and fast way to stay online throughout your trip.

Benefits of using an eSIM in Thailand include:

• Activate before arrival: Install and activate your eSIM while you're still at home, so you have data access as soon as you land in Thailand.

• No need to visit a store: Avoid queues or kiosks at the airport. Your mobile connection is ready to use the moment your flight lands.

• Digital flexibility: Easily switch between plans or top up directly from your phone, which is helpful if you're traveling to nearby countries like Laos, Cambodia, or Malaysia.

• Keep your physical SIM slot free: This allows you to keep your home SIM active for banking apps or SMS verification while still using mobile data in Thailand.

• Environmentally friendly: eSIMs reduce the need for plastic packaging and physical waste.

• Works with modern phones: Most recent smartphones now support eSIM, making it a future-ready choice for travel.

Having a mobile data plan ready upon arrival in Thailand means you can immediately access essential apps like Google Maps, or translation tools. Whether you choose a physical SIM card or an eSIM, staying connected during your visit is simple, affordable, and reliable with Thailand’s strong mobile infrastructure.

Best SIM Cards for Thailand Travel

If you're planning a trip to Thailand, having mobile data can make things much easier, especially for using maps, transport apps and staying in touch. Prepaid SIM cards are a popular option for tourists who want quick and easy access to the internet during their stay. You can choose between physical SIMs, which are widely available at airports and convenience stores, or eSIMs that can be set up before you arrive. To help you find the right fit, here is a quick overview of some of the most reliable SIM and eSIM options for travelers in Thailand.

Each option suits different types of travelers. Physical SIM cards are helpful if you need local calls or prefer direct support. eSIMs like Roamless work well if you want to set up everything in advance and get online as soon as you arrive.

Thailand SIM Cards: What You Need to Know

Before getting a SIM card in Thailand, it's helpful to understand a few key points about what to expect as a traveler.

• Data amounts vary by plan. Options range from small daily packages to larger plans with 15GB to 50GB of high-speed data. Some packages also offer unlimited data, typically with a fair usage policy.

• Validity periods are usually available in 7, 15, or 30-day durations. Short-term plans suit brief holidays, while 30-day options are ideal for longer trips.

• Network coverage is generally strong nationwide. The main mobile operators in Thailand are AIS, TrueMove H, and DTAC. All three provide reliable 4G service and expanding 5G access in cities and major tourist spots.

• Included features depend on the provider and plan. Most tourist SIM cards come with data, local call minutes, and sometimes extras like free access to certain apps or limited international call credit.

• Pricing varies based on the plan’s length and data allowance.

  
  

  • A typical 7-day SIM with 15GB costs around 250 to 300 baht.

  • A 30-day package with higher data or unlimited use ranges from 600 to 1200 baht.

While physical SIM cards are still widely used in Thailand, Roamless eSIM brings several benefits for travelers who want a more flexible way to stay connected:

• No expiration: Use your data as long as needed, whether you're on a short beach holiday or exploring different parts of the country.

• Instant connection: Activate your eSIM before departure and get online the moment you arrive, without waiting in lines or looking for stores.

• Keep your SIM tray free: Leaves your physical SIM slot available for other uses, which is helpful for dual SIM needs or keeping your home number active.

• Lower environmental impact: Choosing a digital SIM helps cut down on plastic and supports more responsible travel habits.

A Global eSIM like Roamless is a useful choice for visitors to Thailand who want an easy and modern way to access mobile data, without relying on traditional SIM cards or in-person setup.

For detailed information about eSIMs, you can read our post on What is eSIM and how does it work to understand the basics.

Thailand SIM Card Costs

The price of prepaid SIM cards in Thailand varies based on how much data you need, how long you’ll be staying, and which provider you choose. Below is a helpful summary to give you an idea of what to expect when budgeting for mobile data during your visit.

In Thailand, travelers can choose from trusted providers like AIS, TrueMove H, and DTAC, all of which offer tourist SIM plans with strong coverage across the country. If your device supports eSIM, Roamless offers a convenient digital option that works without inserting a physical SIM card.

How to Buy SIM Cards in Thailand

Buying a SIM card in Thailand is simple and convenient. You can get one through several easy methods:

• Order online in advance for delivery to your home or hotel

• Pick one up at arrival halls in major international airports such as Suvarnabhumi (BKK) or Don Mueang (DMK)

• Buy from 7-Eleven, FamilyMart, or other convenience stores across the country

• Visit official mobile network stores like AIS, TrueMove H, or DTAC in shopping malls and city centers

Tourist SIM cards are prepaid and usually do not require any long-term commitment. You’ll need to show your passport when buying, as Thai law requires ID verification for SIM activation. Make sure your phone is unlocked and supports Thailand’s network bands to ensure reliable mobile service during your trip.

eSIMs: A Digital Option for Travelers

For travelers using eSIM-compatible phones, digital SIMs are a flexible and modern alternative. You can set up your plan before your trip and stay connected the moment you land. This is especially useful for those arriving late or skipping in-person store visits.

eSIMs offer several advantages in Thailand:

• Activate in advance: Purchase and install the plan before departure, so mobile data starts working right away

• Use alongside your main SIM: Keep your original number active while using Thai data

• No physical card needed: No need to swap SIMs or worry about losing the original one

• More sustainable: Choosing eSIM helps reduce plastic use from traditional SIM packaging

If your phone supports eSIM, it allows you to get online right after arrival without needing to visit a store or buy a physical SIM card.

SIM Card, Pocket WiFi or eSIM in Thailand

If you're traveling to Thailand, you have three common options to access mobile internet: physical SIM cards, pocket WiFi devices, and eSIMs. Each option offers different benefits depending on your needs and your device.

Pocket WiFi

• Allows multiple devices to connect at the same time, which is useful for groups or families

• Offers consistent internet in most cities and tourist destinations

• Requires carrying a separate device and keeping it charged

• Some plans may reduce speed after reaching a daily usage limit

SIM Cards

• Work directly in your unlocked phone and support data, local calls, and SMS

• Widely available at international airports, convenience stores, and mobile operator shops

• SIM registration requires your passport as part of Thai regulations

• Can only be used on one device at a time

eSIMs

• Can be purchased and activated before you arrive in Thailand

• Lets you use a Thai mobile data plan without removing your existing SIM card

• No physical card is needed, and installation is done through your phone settings

• Only available on phones or tablets that are eSIM-compatible

The best option depends on how long you’ll be in Thailand, whether your phone supports eSIM, and how many devices you need to connect. eSIMs offer quick setup for compatible phones. Physical SIM cards are practical for those needing local call services. Pocket WiFi can be helpful if you’re traveling with others and want to share a single internet connection.

Will My Phone Work in Thailand?

Most unlocked and up-to-date smartphones are compatible with mobile networks in Thailand, especially those that support common 4G and 5G bands. Before your trip, it’s a good idea to check whether your device works with the frequency bands used by Thai carriers. Using a local prepaid SIM or eSIM can lower your mobile expenses and give you steady access to calls and data while traveling. Whether you're exploring Bangkok, visiting smaller towns, or heading to the islands, these options can help you stay connected throughout your trip.

Thailand SIM Card: Phuket Airport

Phuket International Airport (HKT) is one of Thailand’s busiest travel hubs and offers convenient access to tourist SIM cards upon arrival. After exiting the baggage claim area, you’ll find official kiosks from Thailand’s major mobile operators, including AIS, DTAC, and TrueMove H, in the arrival hall at Phuket International Airport. These providers offer prepaid SIM cards designed for tourists, with validity periods typically ranging from 7 to 30 days.

Buying at the airport is convenient, especially if you want to get connected right away, but prices may be slightly higher than in city stores. Staff at these counters usually assist with SIM setup, including activation and APN configuration. You’ll also need to present your passport, as SIM registration is required under Thai law.

If you prefer to avoid queues or want to get online instantly upon landing, consider installing a Thailand eSIM before your trip. With just a QR code scan, you can activate your plan in minutes and skip the need for in-person setup. This is a practical choice for travelers with eSIM-compatible phones who want to stay connected without delay.

For more information about staying online at the airport, you can also check our guide to Phuket Airport Wi-Fi.

SIM Card for Bangkok

Bangkok is a busy, fast-moving city where having reliable mobile data is important for navigating traffic, finding local spots, and staying in touch. When picking a SIM card for your time in Bangkok, focus on:

• Strong signal in high-traffic areas like Sukhumvit, Siam, and Chatuchak

• Enough high-speed data for map usage, ride apps, and messaging

• Tourist-friendly plans that are easy to activate at airports or city stores

Most networks in Bangkok offer good 4G and 5G coverage. If you’ll use mobile data often, check how much data each plan gives and how many days it lasts.

Alternatively, you can also check our eSIM Bangkok page.

SIM Card for Phuket

Phuket’s mix of beach towns and rural areas means mobile coverage can vary depending on where you stay. When choosing a SIM card for Phuket, consider:

• Coverage that works well in both Patong and less crowded areas like Nai Harn or Rawai

• Data plans that support video calls, social media, and travel apps

• Providers with stores or counters at Phuket Airport for quick activation

All major Thai networks provide solid service in Phuket’s main areas, though speeds may dip in remote beach spots. A prepaid tourist SIM or an eSIM is a good choice if you want to be connected from the moment you land.

For more detailed information, you can also check our eSIM Phuket page.

Thailand offers many ways to stay connected, with both physical SIM cards and eSIMs available. Plans cover short and long stays, and work well in cities and tourist spots. Make sure your phone is unlocked and supports local bands. Check data, price, and duration to find the right option for your trip.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where can you buy a SIM card in Thailand?

- You can buy a SIM card at major airports like Suvarnabhumi (BKK), Don Mueang (DMK) in Bangkok, and Phuket Airport (HKT). SIM cards are also available at convenience stores like 7-Eleven and FamilyMart, and in official provider stores like AIS, TrueMove H, and DTAC in malls and tourist spots across the country.

Do I need to unlock my phone to use SIM cards in Thailand?

- Yes, your phone needs to be unlocked to use a Thai SIM card. Phones that are locked to a specific carrier may not be compatible with Thai mobile networks. Make sure your phone supports the local network bands, such as Band 3, Band 5, Band 8, and Band 40 for 4G.

Can foreigners buy SIM cards in Thailand?

- Yes, foreigners can buy SIM cards in Thailand. You’ll need to show your passport at the time of purchase, as SIM cards must be registered under Thai law. This is required for both physical SIM cards and eSIM activation.

Do I need a Thai ID to buy a SIM card?

- No, you do not need a Thai ID to buy a SIM card. However, you must provide your passport for identification when purchasing a SIM card in Thailand. The passport is required for registration according to Thai regulations.

Sources:

[1] FrequencyCheck. (2024, August 5). Thailand Wireless Frequency Bands and Carriers. https://www.frequencycheck.com/countries/thailand?