In this post, we’re talking about one of the first things every traveler should do upon landing in Thailand—getting a SIM card. Staying connected is crucial, whether it’s for Google Maps, booking a Grab ride, or sending envy-worthy beach photos to your friends back home.
But don’t worry—I’ve got you covered. In this segment, I’ll walk you through the best SIM card options in Thailand, where to get them, and how to make sure you’re getting the most value for your money. Let’s dive in!”
A quick summary:-
- AIS is the best for remote and rural coverage.
- DTAC is the most budget-friendly for urban and tourist-heavy areas.
- TrueMove H is reliable in cities and perfect for shorter trips.
- For ultimate convenience, consider getting an eSIM via apps like Airalo.
No matter which provider you choose, getting a Thai SIM card is super easy, affordable, and ensures you stay connected throughout your trip.”
So, here’s the deal: Thailand has three major mobile network providers—AIS, DTAC, and TrueMove H. All three are reliable, offer great coverage across the country, and have competitive packages. But depending on your travel style and needs, one might suit you better than the others.
Let’s start with the basics: where should you get a SIM card? The easiest and most convenient option is to grab one right at the airport. Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi and Don Mueang airports, as well as Phuket and Chiang Mai airports, all have dedicated kiosks for AIS, DTAC, and TrueMove H. These kiosks are open 24/7, so no matter when you land, you can get connected.
Now, let’s talk about the options:
1. AIS (Advanced Info Service)
AIS is often considered the best network in Thailand. It has excellent coverage, especially in rural or remote areas. If you’re planning to explore islands, national parks, or even rural villages, AIS is your go-to.
Their tourist SIM cards start at 299 Baht and usually include unlimited internet for 7 days, with high-speed data capped at 5-6GB before slowing down. If you’re staying longer, they have 15- and 30-day packages as well.
2. DTAC (Total Access Communication)
DTAC is another strong contender and is popular for its affordability. Their SIM cards are great for city travelers and island-hoppers, with solid coverage in urban areas and tourist hotspots.
DTAC’s tourist SIMs start at around 229 Baht, offering 6GB of high-speed internet for 8 days, along with free calls to other DTAC numbers. They’re a bit cheaper than AIS and are perfect for shorter trips.
3. TrueMove H
TrueMove H is Thailand’s largest provider in terms of subscribers, and their coverage is solid, though it’s slightly weaker in very rural areas compared to AIS. That said, they’re a fantastic choice if you’ll be sticking to cities like Bangkok, Chiang Mai, or Pattaya.
Their tourist SIMs start at around 299 Baht, offering unlimited data for 8 days with high-speed caps at 3-5GB. TrueMove also has great deals for long-term travelers, with affordable 30-day packages.”
Now, what if you forget to buy a SIM card at the airport? No worries! You can get them at any 7-Eleven, FamilyMart, or even at the providers’ stores in shopping malls. Just look for the AIS, DTAC, or TrueMove logo, and the staff will usually help you set it up.
One important thing to note: You’ll need your passport to register your SIM card. It’s a legal requirement in Thailand, so don’t forget to keep it handy when you’re purchasing your SIM.
Here’s a pro tip: If you’re a tech-savvy traveler, you can also opt for an eSIM before you even arrive. Apps like Airalo allow you to buy and activate a Thai eSIM in advance. It’s hassle-free, and you can skip the lines at the airport kiosks. Plus, many eSIMs offer competitive rates with high-speed data packages.
