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StarHub tourist SIM: Plans, prices, and best (e)SIM options for tourists in Singapore
StarHub Tourist SIM guide: local and roaming data, eSIM activation, and how it compares to other Singapore SIM card options for travellers.
For visitors landing in Singapore, staying online is a priority, and the StarHub Tourist SIM is often the first option you’ll see, especially at Changi Airport. It’s available as both a StarHub tourist SIM card and an eSIM, giving travellers a choice between physical and digital setups.
This guide explains everything you need to know, including pricing, data limits, plan durations, roaming coverage, activation methods, and where to buy. And if you’re comparing tourist SIMs in Singapore, we’ll also explore how a more flexible option like Holafly’s unlimited travel eSIM might better suit longer stays or multi-country trips.
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What is the StarHub tourist SIM & eSIM?
The StarHub Tourist SIM is a prepaid mobile plan designed for visitors to Singapore and beyond. It includes generous local data, calls, SMS, IDD minutes, and regional or global roaming, all without contracts or the need for a local ID.
You can choose between a physical SIM card or a StarHub Tourist eSIM, depending on your phone. Both run on StarHub’s high-speed 5G/4G network, which covers nearly all of Singapore, and both cost the same for the same allowances.
The main difference between a StarHub tourist eSIM and a physical SIM is delivery: the eSIM arrives by email as a QR code, while the SIM card has to be collected in person. One thing to note before you choose: StarHub’s tourist eSIMs are data-only, so if you want local calls and SMS included, the physical SIM is your only option.
StarHub tourist (e)SIM: Plans & prices
StarHub’s tourist plans are designed for short-term stays. All plans run for 30 days and differ by network, data allowance, and roaming coverage.
The table below compares all available options. Prices are listed in Singapore dollars (SGD) and include both local data and StarHub roaming allowances.
| Plan | Price | Validity | Local data | Network | Roaming data |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4G Tourist (SIM / eSIM) | $12 | 30 days | 300 GB | 4G | 15 GB APAC (9 destinations) + 200 GB SEA (MY, ID, PH, VN, TH) |
| 5G Tourist Core (SIM / eSIM) | $15 | 30 days | 300 GB | 5G | 30 GB APAC (20 destinations) + 200 GB SEA |
| 5G Tourist Plus (SIM / eSIM) | $30 | 30 days | 400 GB | 5G | 95 GB APAC (20 destinations) + 300 GB SEA |
Physical SIM plans also include unlimited local calls and SMS, 100 minutes of roaming calls, 50 roaming SMS, and 500–600 IDD minutes, plus 100 IDD minutes to Myanmar. eSIM versions are data-only.
It’s recommended to research how much data you’ll need for travel beforehand and choose the right plan for your needs.
Where to buy StarHub tourist SIM & eSIM in Singapore
As one of Singapore’s major telecom providers, StarHub makes it easy for you to get connected with options to buy both SIM and eSIM versions before or after arrival. Here are the easiest ways to buy a StarHub tourist SIM or eSIM in Singapore:
Changi Airport
For those arriving in Singapore, physical SIM cards are available at Prosegur Change money changers in Terminals 1, 2, and 4, and at StarHub Changi Recommends counters in Terminals 1 to 3. It’s a straightforward option if you prefer to get set up right after landing.
Bring your passport — it’s required to register any tourist SIM in Singapore, and registration is done at the counter. If the StarHub queue is long, the Changi Recommends eSIM is another airport option worth comparing.
Online & App
StarHub offers full online access for both eSIM and SIM card purchases, making it easy to get set up before you travel.
- For eSIM users: You can buy directly from the StarHub app or website. Once payment is complete, you’ll receive a QR code by email for instant activation. This is the fastest route, ideal if you want mobile access the moment you arrive.
- For physical SIM users: You can reserve a Tourist SIM in advance through the same platforms. Choose your preferred pickup location, either at Changi Airport or from one of StarHub’s authorised retail partners across Singapore.
This remote setup lets you secure your plan ahead of time and skip in-store queues completely.
How to activate a StarHub tourist SIM card and eSIM
Activating a StarHub tourist plan depends on which format you choose. Both processes are quick and require minimal setup.
Physical SIM activation guide
- Insert the SIM into your phone.
- Restart your device.
- Activation is usually automatic. If not, follow the instructions included in the SIM pack.
Tourist eSIM activation guide
- Purchase via the StarHub app or website.
- Scan the QR code sent to your email.
- Follow the on-screen steps to install and activate the eSIM profile.
Note: You can buy directly from the StarHub app or website. Once payment is complete, you’ll receive a QR code by email for instant activation. This is the fastest route, ideal if you want mobile access the moment you arrive.
To use the eSIM option, you will require an unlocked eSIM-compatible phone. Make sure mobile data and roaming are enabled in your settings before use.
How to avoid running out of StarHub tourist SIM data
StarHub’s tourist plans come with generous data, but heavy use or background activity can still lead to early limits, especially on roaming. Here’s how to manage your allowance effectively:
- Know your data cap: StarHub’s tourist plans are not unlimited. You get 300 GB on the $12 and $15 plans and 400 GB on the $30 plan. Once the local allowance is used up, data stops rather than slowing down.
- Track your usage in the StarHub app: The app lets you monitor real-time data use, so you can adjust habits before hitting your limit.
- Disable background data and auto-updates: Apps running in the background can consume large amounts of data without notice. Turn off automatic updates and background refresh for non-essential apps.
- Use Wi-Fi when available: For video calls, streaming, or uploads, switch to a secure Wi-Fi network to preserve your mobile data.
- Top up when needed: You can purchase extra data directly through the StarHub app or website if your allowance runs out.
- Consider an eSIM alternative: If you’re a heavy user or travelling across multiple countries, an unlimited data eSIM like Holafly may offer more consistent coverage without recharges.
Holafly eSIM for Singapore: A worry‑free unlimited data alternative
StarHub’s tourist plans top out at 30 days, with prices from $12 to $30 and hard data caps of 300GB to 400GB. They’re well-suited for short trips, but for longer stays or regional travel, the limits can add up.
When comparing eachSingapore SIM card for tourists by data volume and roaming coverage, StarHub offers solid value. Still, it may not be the most flexible choice if you need extended access or higher usage thresholds.
The Holafly eSIM starts from just USD $3.90 per day, while Holafly Plans, a monthly eSIM plan, start from USD $49.90 per month with auto-renewal, offering:
- Unlimited data with no caps or slowdowns
- Instant QR setup with no ID or paperwork
- Valid for up to 90 days in Singapore
- Usable in 200+ destinations, ideal for regional trips
- Supports tethering and mobile hotspots
- 24/7 customer support
It’s a travel-friendly eSIM alternative for those who want full-speed coverage without tracking usage or topping up mid-trip.
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Disclaimer: The data in this article is accurate as of July 24, 2026, and is subject to change.
Not sure if the StarHub Tourist SIM or Holafly eSIM is right for your trip to Singapore? Check out our reviews of other great options to stay connected:
StarHub tourist SIM FAQ
The $12 4G tourist plan runs for 30 days from activation and includes 300 GB of local data in Singapore. If you have seen the $12 plan described as 100 GB for 7 days or 10 days, that refers to an older line-up.
The trade-off at $12 is the network, not the length: that tier runs on 4G rather than 5G, and its roaming allowance covers 9 destinations instead of 20. If you want 5G, the next step up is $15 for the same 300 GB.
Yes. You can buy extra data through the StarHub app or website while your plan is still active. Once the 30 days lapse, you’ll need a new plan rather than a top-up.
StarHub tourist SIM plan makes sense if you want a Singapore number with local calls and SMS, and you’re staying for a month or less. A travel eSIM like Holafly makes more sense if you’re visiting several countries, staying longer than 30 days, or you’d rather not track a data allowance at all.
Plans that may interest you
Formerly a travel journalist turned marketing copywriter, I found my way back to the travel world with Holafly—my dream company that made remote work possible. My motto? “Dream big and make it happen.” I’m passionate about writing, exploring the world, and staying active through walking, running, swimming, and hiking. I also love learning, reflecting, and connecting with inspiring minds.
