Thailand SIM card advice

There are plenty of options for getting a SIM card in Thailand. With so many choices, it can be confusing when you start to research the best card to get. The best SIM card for one traveller might not be a good fit for someone else. It depends on how long you are in Thailand, how much data you need, how quickly you want to set up the SIM and various other factors. In this article, we run through the different options you have for buying a SIM card in Thailand.

Mobile networks

The main mobile networks in Thailand are: AIS, DTAC, and True. Check their websites below to compare deals and get an idea of the best plan for you.

• AIS
• DTAC
• True

All three providers also have special SIM cards aimed at tourists:

• AIS tourist SIM
• DTAC tourist SIM
• True tourist SIM

While a tourist SIM may seem like the best choice, it might not be if you are staying for more than a few weeks or need more data. Tourist SIMs tend to be more expensive than regular SIM cards and even if you are visiting Thailand on holiday you can still opt for a regular SIM instead of the tourist version.

Once you have a SIM card, you can download your network provider’s app (they all have English instructions in addition to Thai) and gain access to online deals for voice and data packages.

Carry your passport when buying a Thai SIM card
Under Thai law, all SIM cards purchased in Thailand need to be registered with your passport. Wherever you decide to buy your SIM, make sure you have your passport with you.

Physical SIM or eSIM?

All of the Thai network providers give the option of an eSIM or a physical SIM card. Some travellers prefer the convenience of an eSIM, but the choice is yours. ESIMS can also be purchased in advance with an international provider like Airalo.

Where to buy your SIM card

Airport

There are booths in the arrival area at Bangkok Suvarnabhumi Airport (and all of Thailand’s international airports) where you can buy SIM cards. This is convenient if you want to get online immediately, but not necessarily the most cost-effective option. Generally speaking, you’ll get a bigger choice and better prices away from the airport. If you decide to get a SIM card at the airport it’s easy enough to do and the staff will set up everything for you while you wait. Although this is handy, the booths can get busy and you may have to queue.

If you are taking the Airport Rail Link (ARL) from Bangkok Suvarnabhumi into town, there is a booth on the basement level at the airport (just before the entrance to the ARL) which can quickly set you up with your SIM card. These booths are quieter than the ones in the arrival area and can be a good option.

Mobile shops in the city

You will find dedicated stores for AIS, DTAC and True at just about every shopping mall in Thailand. This will give you the biggest choice of SIM cards and deals and will usually be the best value.

Convenience stores

You can buy SIM cards at many 7-Eleven and Family Mart outlets. However, you won’t have as big a choice as you will get at a dedicated mobile store. It also takes time for the staff to register the SIM, and not all staff will know what they have to do so they may have to call a colleague over. If you’re going for this option, try to do it when the shop isn’t busy.

Pre-order a SIM card

You can pre-order SIM cards or eSIMs for Thailand via online sites like Airalo, Amazon, and Klook. This can save time and allow you to hit the ground running when you arrive, but will usually cost more compared to waiting until you are in Thailand.

Data plans and topping up

There are a dizzying array of data plans available from different providers so you will need to shop around and check what is best for your individual needs.

Always read the small print, especially with unlimited plans; these plans often include a data cap after which connection speeds are reduced.

It’s an easy process to top-up or extend validity via the mobile provider’s app or in person at mobile shops or convenience stores.

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