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Which SIM card should you buy when traveling to Thailand for calls and internet connection? Check out Mytour’s expert tips on choosing the best SIM card for your trip!
Thailand has become a top destination for many travelers, offering stunning landscapes and delicious food. During your journey through the Land of Smiles, a SIM card will be your essential companion to ensure a smooth and memorable trip. With this SIM, staying in touch with family in Vietnam and accessing the Internet will be hassle-free.
Check out these helpful tips on buying a SIM card for your trip to Thailand and get ready for an exciting and worry-free adventure!
Which Mobile Network Provides the Best SIM Data in Thailand?
When traveling to Thailand, selecting a mobile network that offers reliable SIM data is crucial for uninterrupted internet access. The three leading networks in Thailand—AIS, TrueMove, and DTAC—each offer unique advantages tailored to different needs of tourists.
1. AIS - The Top Choice for Speed and Extensive Coverage
AIS is renowned for its impressive connection speeds, making it the ideal option for tourists traveling to remote areas like Phuket, Koh Samui, Chiang Mai, and Chiang Rai. With AIS, you’ll experience lightning-fast internet and wide coverage, allowing you to browse, navigate, and stay connected even in far-flung locations.
However, the high-quality service comes at a premium. AIS’s rates tend to be higher than those of other providers. Their travel SIM plans range from 49 THB for 1GB per day to 1250 THB for 50GB over 30 days, offering flexibility based on your usage needs.
2. TrueMove - Perfect for Tourists in Central Areas
TrueMove is the second largest network in Thailand, with robust coverage in major cities and densely populated areas. It's an excellent choice for those focusing on visiting popular attractions in central Bangkok or other urban regions.
In addition, TrueMove offers competitive prices and attractive deals. For instance, a 15GB plan is available for 299 THB with an 8-day validity, or you can opt for an unlimited data plan at 1199 THB for 30 days. However, TrueMove may not be the best option for travelers heading to mountainous or remote areas.
3. DTAC - Affordable Prices, Wide Coverage
As the third largest network in Thailand, DTAC is praised for its affordable pricing and extensive coverage across the country. With flexible SIM plans, tourists can easily choose data packages and durations that suit their needs. For example, a 1GB plan costs 49 THB for 1 day, while a 50GB plan is available for 599 THB with a 15-day validity. DTAC is available at most airports and convenience stores, making it highly convenient for travelers.
AIS is the best choice if you require high speeds and extensive coverage, while TrueMove is ideal for tourists in the city center. DTAC, on the other hand, is a cost-effective option with wide coverage throughout Thailand.
Where to Buy a SIM Card in Thailand?
To ensure your trip to Thailand goes smoothly with seamless internet connectivity, purchasing a Thai SIM card is essential. Here are two easy ways to get the right SIM card for your journey.
1. Buy a Travel SIM Card Upon Arrival in Thailand
A popular option is to purchase a SIM card as soon as you arrive in Thailand. Major airports like Suvarnabhumi (BKK), Don Mueang (DMK), and Phuket (HKT) have counters selling SIM cards from leading networks like AIS, TrueMove, and DTAC, making it convenient for travelers. The staff will assist you with registration and installing the SIM in your device, ensuring you're connected as soon as you land. However, buying a SIM at the airport can take time due to queues, especially during peak hours.
Besides the airport, you can also find SIM cards at convenience stores like 7-Eleven, Family Mart, or official network stores. Simply use Google Maps to find the nearest store, and the staff will help you set up your SIM. However, sometimes language barriers and unfamiliar streets can make finding the store and communicating a bit challenging.
2. Purchase a Thai Travel SIM in Advance from Vietnam
Buying a SIM in Vietnam before traveling gives you peace of mind knowing you'll have immediate connectivity once you arrive in Thailand. This option saves you time searching for a store and avoids waiting in lines at the airport. You can purchase the SIM at stores specializing in international SIM cards or through e-commerce platforms and official websites like Mytour. With options for pickup either in Vietnam or at the airport, you can activate your SIM and use it right when you arrive in Thailand without any delay.
Why Should You Buy a Thai Travel SIM?
A Thai travel SIM is the ideal choice for staying connected while exploring the country. Unlike public Wi-Fi or portable Wi-Fi routers, a travel SIM lets you access the internet anytime, anywhere, without relying on specific locations or carrying bulky devices.
A Thai travel SIM offers both convenience and cost savings. For a reasonable price, you’ll get 24/7 internet access to check maps, order rides through Grab, or update your social media quickly. Additionally, using a travel SIM allows you to easily access essential apps like Google Maps and Google Translate, without worrying about expensive roaming charges from your Vietnamese SIM card.
Affordable Thai SIM Cards for Travelers on Mytour
1. HAPPY TOURIST SIM - Pick Up SIM in Thailand
The HAPPY TOURIST SIM from the dtac5G network is an excellent choice for tourists who want smooth internet connectivity and easy communication while in Thailand. With a 10-day validity, the SIM offers 50GB of data with maximum speeds of 5G/4G, catering to all your needs from navigation to social media updates. A special feature is free access to popular apps like Facebook Messenger, LINE, WhatsApp, WeChat, and Kakao Talk, without using up your data allowance.
SIM Pickup Information:
Bangkok:
- Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK): Mytour Counter: 2nd Floor, Arrival Hall, Gate 1, next to KBank counter. Open 24/7 | DTAC Shop: 2nd Floor, Gate 7. Open 24/7.
- Don Mueang Airport (DMK): DTAC Shop: Branch 1 near Exit 3 and 5 at the International Arrival Hall, Branch 2 opposite Exit 6 | Opening Hours: 5:00 AM - 11:59 PM.
- Central World (CTW): Mytour Counter, 1st Floor, Hug Thai area, from 10:00 AM - 7:00 PM.
Phuket: Phuket International Airport (HKT): Baggage Claim Area, 1st Floor, International Terminal. Open from 6:00 AM - 11:00 PM.
Chiang Mai: Chiang Mai International Airport (CNX): International Arrival Hall, near Gate 11, from 9:00 AM - 7:30 PM.
2. [True5G] Thai Travel SIM - Pick Up SIM in Thailand
The True5G Thai Travel SIM offers 50GB of data valid for 10 days, with unlimited access to popular apps like Instagram, Facebook, LINE, WhatsApp, TikTok, and many other social platforms. Plus, you get an additional 10GB specifically for TikTok, making it perfect for sharing your travel journey.
Key Features:
- Maximum speeds of 5G/4G, ensuring smooth browsing experience.
- 50GB of data, plus an additional 10GB free exclusively for TikTok.
- Unlimited calls within the True5G network across Thailand.
- Supports hotspot sharing with other devices.
SIM Pickup Information:
Bangkok:
- Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK): True Shop counters on the 2nd floor, Gates 4, 5, and 6, as well as Mytour counter in the Arrival Hall, Gate 1. Open 24/7.
- Don Mueang Airport (DMK): True Shop counter opposite Exit 3 and 5, next to Exit 3. Open from 04:30 AM to 11:59 PM.
- CentralWorld (CTW): Mytour counter on the 1st floor, Hug Thai area, open from 10:00 AM - 7:00 PM, Monday to Sunday.
Phuket: Phuket International Airport (HKT), True Shop at Terminal 2, International Arrival Hall, next to Exit 3, open from 07:00 AM - 10:00 PM.
Chiang Mai: Chiang Mai International Airport (CNX), True Shop counter outside the baggage claim area, near Exit 12, open from 09:00 AM - 7:30 PM.
3. 4G SIM for Southeast Asia (Pick Up at Tan Son Nhat Airport)
If you want to have a SIM card ready in Vietnam to stay connected to the internet as soon as you arrive in Thailand, the Southeast Asia 4G SIM with a pick-up point at Tan Son Nhat Airport is the perfect choice for you. With high-speed 3G/4G data capacity, this SIM will allow you to freely use data for apps and information searches throughout your trip to Thailand.
Key Features of the Southeast Asia 4G SIM:
- Flexible usage period ranging from 4 to 20 days, ideal for both short and long trips.
- Supports multiple SIM sizes: Mini, Micro, Nano, ensuring compatibility with most mobile phones today.
- Provides only internet services, so you don’t need to worry about call charges.
- Coverage in 5 countries: Enjoy seamless connectivity as you travel between destinations.
SIM Pickup Information:
- Pickup location: Mobifone Counter, International Arrival Hall, Tan Son Nhat International Airport (SGN).
- Operating hours: From 07:30 AM to 11:00 PM, every day of the week.
4. 4G SIM for Thailand (Delivery in Ho Chi Minh City)
Get your SIM quickly in Ho Chi Minh City, the 4G SIM for Thailand ensures you stay connected throughout your journey. With a 10-day usage period, you’ll have unlimited access to high-speed 4G and 3G internet. Additionally, the SIM comes pre-loaded with 50 baht for convenient calling, and it’s easy to top up the balance when needed to meet your communication needs.
Delivery Information in Ho Chi Minh City:
- Delivery hours: 9:00 AM - 7:00 PM, Monday to Saturday, with delivery one day before your departure date.
- Procedure: The delivery staff will contact you for confirmation. You must present the voucher upon receipt.
- Note: Any changes to the delivery address or time after confirmation will incur a 10,000 VND fee, payable directly to the delivery person.
Shipping Fee Details:
- Districts 1, 3, 4, 5, 10, Phu Nhuan, Binh Thanh: 15,000 VND
- Districts Tan Binh, Binh Tan, 2, 6, 7, 8, 11, Hoc Mon, Go Vap, 12: 30,000 VND
- Districts 9, Thu Duc, Nha Be, Binh Chanh: 35,000 VND
- Suburban areas: Extra charge depending on the region.
(*) Note: Customers are responsible for any additional fees if they request expedited delivery.
Additionally, using an eSIM while traveling is a convenient alternative to physical SIM cards, offering quicker and more flexible connectivity. As long as your device is eSIM-compatible, you can activate the service instantly without needing to insert or remove a physical SIM, minimizing the risk of loss or damage.
5. Thailand eSIM Including Unlimited Internet and Calls
The Thailand eSIM for Internet and Calls offers convenience to travelers by ensuring continuous connectivity throughout your trip, without the need for a physical SIM. With this eSIM, you will receive:
- Unlimited internet access with 3G/4G/5G speed, depending on the network provider.
- Usage duration: 10 days, ideal for long-term connectivity needs.
- 100 free minutes for calls to any network within Thailand, plus 15 baht in credit for additional calls.
- Free use of popular messaging apps such as Facebook Messenger, LINE, WhatsApp, WeChat, and KakaoTalk.
eSIM Activation Guide:
After confirming your order, the QR code containing the eSIM and installation instructions will be sent to you within 1 day. To activate your eSIM, follow these steps:
- Go to Settings on your device.
- Select Add eSIM or Add Mobile Plan.
- Choose Scan QR Code and scan the provided eSIM QR code. If you encounter difficulties, you can select Enter Code Manually at the bottom of the screen.
(*) Note: The eSIM voucher is only valid for the specified period, so you must activate it on the scheduled date to ensure a smooth experience during your trip to Thailand.
6. Thailand eSIM
The Thailand eSIM is the perfect solution for travelers, offering quick and convenient connectivity throughout the country. With three flexible plans, this eSIM meets a variety of connectivity needs, from basic to advanced:
- Usage duration: 5-10 days
- Internet speed: 4G/5G
- Data plans: 15 GB for data only, 50 GB with data and 100 free minutes of calls in Thailand, and unlimited plan with data and unlimited calls.
- Coverage area: Nationwide in Thailand
- Network provider: Dtac
Hướng dẫn nhận và kích hoạt eSIM:
- Sau khi xác nhận đơn hàng, mã QR chứa eSIM sẽ được gửi qua email trong vòng 24 giờ.
- Cài đặt và kích hoạt eSIM trong vòng 30 ngày kể từ khi nhận mã QR.
- Để đảm bảo eSIM hoạt động suôn sẻ, nên cài đặt vào ngày khởi hành.
(*) Lưu ý: eSIM sẽ tự động kích hoạt vào ngày đầu tiên sử dụng tại Thái Lan (00:00 giờ địa phương).
Hướng Dẫn Sử Dụng SIM Du Lịch Thái Lan Cho Hội Tự Túc
1. Đối Với SIM Vật Lý Thái Lan
Cách sử dụng SIM vật lý rất đơn giản. Chỉ cần lắp SIM vào điện thoại, sau đó bật chuyển vùng dữ liệu, bạn có thể truy cập mạng ngay lập tức mà không cần thực hiện thêm cài đặt nào.
2. For Thai eSIM
With eSIM, you'll first receive a QR code from the provider via email. Follow the steps below based on your device:
- For iOS: Connect to WiFi, go to Settings > Mobile Data > Add Mobile Plan, then scan the eSIM QR code. Name the eSIM, set it as your mobile data plan, and enable data roaming.
- For Android: Connect to WiFi, go to Settings > Connections > SIM Card Manager > Add Mobile Plan, and scan the QR code. Confirm to add the eSIM to your device.
- For Google Pixel: Connect to WiFi, go to Settings > Network & Internet > SIMs > Download Alternative SIM? and scan the QR code. Confirm to activate the eSIM.
The eSIM will automatically connect to the Thai network as soon as you arrive, ensuring you're able to access the Internet right after landing.
Important Notes for Using Thailand Travel SIMs
When using a 4G SIM or eSIM in Thailand, there are a few things to keep in mind to ensure a smooth trip and avoid connectivity issues.
- To check your remaining data, simply dial *900#.
- To check your account balance, dial *123#.
- To find out your current phone number, use these codes: *833# (TrueMove), *545# (AIS), or 1029# (DTAC).
- To change the system language to English, just dial 9304 (for TrueMove).
- With eSIM, you'll receive a link to check your data usage via SMS. Click on the link to view your current data details.
- When calling internationally to Vietnam, don’t forget to replace the leading 0 with +84 and follow the correct dialing code for your network (e.g., AIS: 00500, DTAC: 00400, TrueMove: 006).
- If you experience network issues, try turning off mobile data, restarting your phone, and then turning mobile data back on to reconnect.
A Thai SIM card is an essential tool for travelers looking to explore the beautiful Land of Smiles. For independent travelers, having a Thai SIM card ensures maximum convenience throughout the journey. With high-speed internet connectivity and flexible service packages, a Thai travel SIM makes it easy to find the best places to eat, enjoy entertainment at great prices, and even make advance bookings for activities.
If you're wondering where to go in Thailand, head over to the Mytour Blog for detailed reviews: Travel Tips for Koh Phi Phi Thailand, Tips for Krabi - Famous Island Group, 10 Beautiful & Affordable Homestays in Chiang Mai for Independent Travelers, Explore Chinatown in Bangkok, the Lively Chinese Quarter, and 10 Experiences to Connect with Nature in Chiang Mai,...
Get a Thai SIM card that matches your travel schedule and start exploring the beautiful Kingdom of Thailand!
