The top Tourist SIM Cards for 2024 are:
- AIS Thailand Tourist SIM Card: 8-day 15GB Max 5G Speed data plan for 299 THB (USD 9, EUR 8, AUD 13).
- TrueMove H Tourist SIM Card: 8-day 15GB Max 5G Speed data plan for 299 THB (USD 9, EUR 8, AUD 13).
- Dtac Happy Tourist SIM Card: 8-day 15GB Max 5G Speed data plan for 299 THB (USD 9, EUR 8, AUD 13).
How to Choose Sim Cards in Thailand for Tourists?
Here are a few factors to consider when choosing tourist sim cards in Thailand:
Data & Speed:
Depending on your usage and preferences, you might need more or less data for your trip. Some sim cards offer unlimited data, while others have a fixed amount of data that can be used within a certain period. If you go for an unlimited data amount you do not have to worry about running out, however you may have to compromise on the speed if you are going for a budget friendly option or have a pricey package for top speed.
If you choose a package with a limited data amount then it’s important to use wifi where you can. Let’s dive into some examples
- Staying outdoors all day: 2-3GB/Day on average is sufficient.
- Indoors (wifi) + Outdoors: 1-2 GB/Day on average is sufficient.
Please bear in mind that watching videos (especially in HD) is the fastest way to drain your data. For example: Watching a video at 1080p/1 is approximately 1GB of data.
Calls:
If you plan to make local calls with your sim card, you should check the rates and options of each operator. Some sim cards include free calls and texts within the same network, while others charge per minute or per message.
- Calls using the AIS network are 1.07 Baht (USD 0.03) /Minute
- Calls using the TrueMove H SIM are 0.99 BAHT (USD 0.28) /Minute
- Calls using the DTAC SIM are 0.99 BAHT (USD 0.28) /Minute
However, usually when you purchase a Thai SIM it will be bundled with a package which will include deals such as: The first 15 minutes free to call then it will charge 0.99 THB (USD 0.28)/ minute.
It’s worth noting that most of the communication today for calls is done through local communication apps. In Thailand, the most popular one is called LINE, it allows for Text messages, video and audio calls.
Validity:
Most Thailand SIM cards for tourists have a validity period of 7, 15, or 30 days. Some sim cards can be extended by buying more credit or data packages, while others expire after the validity period, in this case if you wish to extend you will need to purchase a new SIM that is extendable for long term use.
Price:
The price of Thailand SIM cards for tourists varies depending on the operator, the data amount, the validity period, and other features. You can expect to pay between 200 baht (USD 5) to 1,000 baht (USD 30) for a sim card, depending on your internet needs and call preferences.
Top Providers for Tourist Sim Cards in Thailand
Thailand’s three major cell service providers are AIS, DTAC, and TrueMove H. They offer a variety of prepaid “pay as you go” plans with 3G/4G support for both short-term and long-term visitors, ranging from daily to monthly plans. This is great for holiday trips and can easily be extended with a simple top up. Top ups can also be made at 7-Eleven.
AIS SIM Card
AIS is the largest mobile network provider in Thailand. They offer a variety of SIM card packages for tourists, their best seller is the 8-day 15GB Max 5G Speed data plan for 299 THB (USD 9, EUR 8, AUD 13).
- 50 baht call credit
Buy AIS Thailand Tourist SIM Card Here
TrueMove H SIM Card
TrueMove H is another major mobile network provider in Thailand, with good coverage throughout the country. They offer a variety of SIM card packages for tourists, including a
8-day 15GB Max 5G Speed data plan for 299 THB (USD 9, EUR 8, AUD 13).
- Free 10 GB Tiktok
- 100 Baht call credit
- Unlimited calls to TRUE numbers
- Free Wifi
Buy TrueMove H Tourist SIM Card Here
Dtac Happy Tourist SIM Card
Dtac is the third largest mobile network provider in Thailand, with good coverage in major tourist areas. They offer a variety of SIM card packages for tourists, including a 8-day 15GB Max 5G Speed data plan for 299 THB (USD 9, EUR 8, AUD 13).
- Free 10 GB Tiktok
- Unlimited chats on Facebook messenger, LINE, WhatsApp, WeChat & Kakao
- Unlimited calls to DTAC numbers
- Free Wifi
Buy Dtac Happy Tourist SIM Card Here
Importance of Having a Thai SIM Card when traveling in Thailand
One of the primary reasons why having a sim card is so important is that you will be saving a lot of money if you’re on a budget as data roaming charges can be pricey. It’ll allow you to make local calls at a much cheaper rate. Also, especially if you are outside without wifi access you will need a lot of navigation & transportation apps! In Thailand the most common transportation applications are Grab and Bolt, they will be your handy go to rides to and from place. Google Maps will be your navigation, these three are essential when it comes to having internet data. For food you can use Food Panda or Grab as well, you’ll usually be using wifi when ordering food anyway. However, in order to utilize all of these apps, having a comprehensive data plan that gives you unlimited or enough data to easily access and use these apps is essential.
While indulging in culinary delights on Grab or Foodpanda is exciting, remember to have your travel insurance information readily available. Some new foods in Thailand may not agree with your digestive system, so it’s important to be prepared.
Travel Insurance for Thailand
Things to keep in mind when using a SIM Card in Thailand
Now that you know why having a SIM card in Thailand is so important, let’s talk about some important things to keep in mind.
Top up your SIM card regularly
Most SIM cards in Thailand are prepaid, which means that you will need to top up your balance every time you run out of data or credit. You can do this online through the service provider’s app using your credit card or simply heading to the nearest 7 Eleven store to purchase the top up using cash or card. Make sure you check your balance often and top up before it expires or runs out.
| Provider | Balance Check (USSD Code) | Call Center Number |
|---|---|---|
| AIS | *121*1# | 1175 |
| TrueMove H | #123# | 1242 |
| Dtac | *101*9# | 1678 |
Keep track of your data usage and set a limit on your phone
If you have a limited amount of data, this one is important for you. To avoid overage charges or running out of data you should set a data limit on your phone settings. This will alert you when you reach a certain amount of data usage and prevent you from using more data than you have paid for. Sometimes apps can run in the background and drain data that you are not actively using, so having alerts on your data usage can be handy.
Beware when connected to Public Networks
Public Wi-Fi networks are easy to use, but they can also be dangerous. When you connect to a public Wi-Fi network in Thailand, your data is not encrypted, so anyone on the same network can see it. Yes, this means free wifi at Starbucks is not safe. So hackers can easily steal your personal information, such as your passwords, credit card numbers, and social security number. It’s best to avoid important financial transactions when on a wifi connection.
FAQ about the Sim Card in Thailand for Tourist
What to do before Buying a SIM in Thailand?
Before you purchase the Thai SIM: Make sure your phone is unlocked.
Before you travel, unlock your phone from your service provider back home. This may require a small fee. Once unlocked, your phone will be compatible with Thai SIM cards. Now you will be ready to buy and use a Thai SIM card without running into any locking problems.
Where do I buy a SIM card in Thailand?
You can find them at any international airport, 7-Eleven, major shopping mall, or directly at the service provider’s shop. A popular place and easiest place to buy a sim card is through a 7-Eleven store, which is available at every corner.
- 1. Walk up to the 7-Eleven counter and ask for a 7 day, 15 day, or 30 day tourist sim card.
- 2. Choose your data speed & amount options from the options they provide.
- 3. They will ask for your passport to make a copy and take a photo of you.
- 4. Simply pay the amount or your SIM Card purchase and there you have it!
Buying a Thailand SIM card for tourists is very easy, you’ll be well prepared as soon you land in Thailand. Safe Travels!
