If you’re planning a trip to Thailand, staying connected is essential for navigating the country, booking transportation, and sharing your experiences online. The good news is that buying a Thai SIM card is incredibly easy, fast, and affordable. You don’t need to order one in advance—you can simply pick up a Thai SIM card when you arrive. In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about buying a Thai SIM card in Thailand, including the best options, where to buy one, and how to set it up quickly.
Why Buying a Thai SIM Card is Better Than International Roaming
- Cheaper Than Roaming – International roaming fees are expensive, but a Thai SIM card is much more affordable.
- Fast Internet Speeds – Thailand’s 4G and expanding 5G networks offer fast and stable internet.
- Wide Coverage – Thai mobile networks cover most areas, including islands and rural locations.
- Flexible Packages – You can easily switch between different packages depending on your data usage.
Where to Buy a Thai SIM Card
Finding a Thai SIM card is easy because you can buy one from various locations as soon as you arrive in Thailand.
At the Airport
The most convenient place to buy a Thai SIM card is at the airport. Major international airports like Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK) and Don Mueang Airport (DMK) have counters for Thailand’s top mobile providers: AIS, TrueMove H and DTAC
These counters are located in the arrival hall and are open 24/7, so you can get a Thai SIM card no matter when your flight lands. The staff will assist you with setting up the SIM card, so you’ll be connected within minutes.
At Convenience Stores (7-Eleven and FamilyMart)
If you miss the chance to buy a Thai SIM card at the airport, you can easily find one at 7-Eleven or FamilyMart. These convenience stores are located all over Thailand and are open 24 hours a day. Simply ask the cashier for a Thai SIM card, and they will help you activate it.
At Mobile Network Stores
For more options and better package deals, you can visit the official stores of AIS, TrueMove H, or DTAC at major shopping malls such as: Siam Paragon, Central World, MBK Center or just any mall in the city. These stores provide a variety of prepaid SIM card packages and assistance with setting up your phone for the best internet connection.
Best Thai SIM Card Options for Tourists
Thailand’s major mobile providers offer special tourist SIM cards that are tailored to the needs of travelers. These SIM cards typically include: High-speed 4G/5G internet, Free local calls, International calling options, Easy top-up options through convenience stores and apps.
Popular Thai SIM Card Packages for Tourist.
| Provider | Price (THB) | Data Allowance | Validity | Extras | Esim |
| True Tourist Simcard | 449฿ | Maximum speed up to 1,000Mbps for 5G users, 100 Mbps for 4G users, and 42 Mbps for 3G users. | 8 days | – Unlimited internet, full speed – Free international calls 100 baht – Free calls to all networks in the country 24 hours a day (not exceeding 15 minutes per call) – WiFi usage: unlimited | |
| 699฿ | 15 days | ||||
| 1,199฿ | 30 days | ||||
| dtac Happy Tourist Infinite SIM | 449฿ | – | 8 days | Unlimited 5G internet at Max speed Unlimited call to all network in Thailand Unlimited dtac WiFi Free 100-baht calling credit Free 15-baht credit Free 30 mins call to China. Hong Kong, Macau, Taiwan, India, South Kore and Vietnam. | Available in eSIM (Partner store: gigago) |
| 699฿ | 15 days | Available in eSIM (Partner store: gigago, airalo, eSim Thailand, SimOptions) | |||
| 1,199฿ | 30 days | Available in eSIM (Partner store: gigago, Marco Polo mobile) | |||
| dtac Happy Tourist SIM More Data, More benefits | 49฿ | 1 GB | 1 day | Free 15-baht credit Unlimited calls among dtac network Free chat for 5 applications | |
| 349฿ | 50 GB at 5G/4G MAX SPEED | 10 days | Free 15-baht credit Free 100 mins Unlimited call within network in Thailand Free 30 min for call to India, South Korea, Vietnam Free chat for 5 applications | Available in eSIM (Partner store: AeroBile, airalo, Mobimatter, gigago, eSIM Thailand, ESIMPLAY, gohub, Billion Connect, SimOptions) | |
| 599฿ | 30 GB at 5G/4G MAX SPEED | 15 days | Free 15-baht credit Unlimited calls among dtac network Free chat for 5 applications | Available in eSIM (Partner store: airalo, MobiMatter, AIRHUB, eSIM Thailand, CHANGI recommends, gigago) | |
| AIS Thailand Tourist Sim | 49฿ | 1 GB at Speed 10 Mbps | 1 days | Call for all network 1.07 Baht/Min | |
| 349฿ | – | 5 days | Data: Unlimited Data Call: Bonus call 100 baht for any network in Thailand & International call via 0030 Unlimited call in AIS network Wi-Fi: Unlimited AIS SUPER Wi-Fi Validity:5 days | ||
| 449฿ | 8 days | ||||
| 699฿ | 15 days | ||||
| 1,199฿ | 30 days | ||||
| 1,599฿ | 90 days |
For other simcards:
How to Register Your Thai SIM Card
According to Thai law, you must register your Thai SIM card with your personal information before use. Registration is quick and easy:
- Provide your passport to the staff at the counter or store.
- They will register your SIM card within 2–3 minutes.
- Once registered, your SIM card will be activated and ready to use.
How to Activate a Thai SIM Card
Activating a Thai SIM card is straightforward:
- Insert the SIM card into your phone.
- Restart your phone.
- Your phone should automatically detect the network.
- If it doesn’t, adjust the APN (Access Point Name) settings as instructed on the SIM card packaging.
Buying a Thai SIM card is the easiest and most cost-effective way to stay connected while traveling in Thailand. With options available at the airport, convenience stores, and mobile shops, you’ll have no trouble finding a SIM card that suits your needs. A local SIM card ensures that you can use Google Maps, book transportation, and stay connected with friends and family without relying on expensive roaming plans. Whether you’re visiting bustling Bangkok, exploring Chiang Mai, or relaxing on a beach in Phuket, a Thai SIM card will keep you connected and make your trip smoother and more enjoyable.
Don’t waste money on roaming fees—get a Thai SIM card as soon as you land and enjoy fast, affordable internet throughout your trip!