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Optus roaming Thailand: Charges and activation guide
Learn how to use Optus roaming in Thailand, including roaming passes and international packages. Compare it with more affordable options like travel eSIM.
If you’re an Optus customer heading to Thailand, keeping your Australian number active is the simplest way to stay connected. However, what seems easy can become expensive if you’re not prepared.
This guide will walk you through Optus roaming in Thailand, including $5 and $10 Roaming Passes and Prepaid Roaming Packs. We will also explain the activation steps and standard pay-as-you-go charges.
In the end, if you need unlimited data without the daily stress of usage caps, we introduce Holafly eSIM, a popular alternative to Optus in Thailand, with reliable coverage in 200+ destinations.
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International eSIMs, local networks. Enjoy the best of both worlds with Holafly.
Can you use Optus roaming in Thailand?
Yes. Optus international roaming works seamlessly in Thailand for both eligible postpaid and prepaid customers. Because Thailand is an eligible Zone 1 destination, you can use your phone just like you would at home.
When you land in Thailand, your phone will connect to local Thai partner networks like AIS, TrueMove H, or DTAC. So, you won’t need to purchase a Thailand SIM card.
Optus postpaid roaming pass for Thailand
Optus offers two roaming plans for its postpaid customers. Your roaming experience depends on your plan type. Most modern plans offer $5 Daily Roaming, and older plans can choose the $10 Daily Roaming Pass.
Optus $5 Roaming Pass
Optus $5 Roaming Pass is a daily pack available for Choice Plus, Optus Plus Family, Promo, and Business Choice Plus plans.
- Cost: $5 per 24 hours. You are only charged on days you actually use your phone in Thailand.
- Inclusions: 5 GB of data per day and unlimited standard talk and SMS.
- Activation: This plan will be activated automatically when you start using data, making a call, or sending an SMS. If you exceed 5 GB in 24 hours, Optus will automatically add another 5 GB for another $5.
Optus $10 Roaming Pass
If you are on an older Optus plan or a non-Choice Plus plan, you may fall under the $10 Roaming Pass.
- Cost: $10 per 24 hours.
- Inclusions: 1 GB of data per day and unlimited standard talk and SMS. Like the $5 pass, an additional $10 charge triggers automatically once you hit the 1 GB limit.
- Note: Since this plan offers 80% less data for double the price, it’s worth checking the My Optus app to see if you can switch to a “Choice Plus” plan before you fly. You can also use our data usage calculator to see if this pass is suitable for you.
Optus Prepaid International Roaming Packs
Prepaid customers should purchase an international roaming pack to stay connected while in Thailand. Otherwise, usage will be charged at standard rates, which can become very expensive, even with light data use.
Optus offers four roaming packs to its prepaid customers:
| Pack Type | Duration | Included Data | Standard Talk | Standard SMS |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| $5 International Roaming | 1 Day | 1 GB | 25 Mins | 50 SMS |
| $25 International Roaming | 14 Days | 5 GB | 50 Mins | 50 SMS |
| $45 International Roaming | 28 Days | 10 GB | 100 Mins | 100 SMS |
| $75 International Roaming | 186 Days | 15 GB | 100 Mins | 100 SMS |
Pro tips:
- Since roaming packs activate immediately after your purchase, it is recommended to buy yours just before boarding or once you land to ensure you don’t waste any days.
- If you run out of data or other inclusions during your trip, simply purchase another pack through the My Optus app.
Optus roaming Thailand standard charges (pay-as-you-go)
If you don’t have an active Optus roaming in Thailand, like international packages or daily passes, you will be charged standard pay-as-you-go (PAYG) rates. These are significantly higher and can lead to immediate bill shock.
Postpaid standard rates
For postpaid customers on ineligible plans, standard roaming rates in Thailand are as follows:
- Data: $1.00 per MB.
- Talk: $1.50 per minute of making or receiving talk.
- SMS: $0.50 per text.
Warning: Without a roaming pass, a single 1 GB download will cost you $1,024. At these rates, even background app updates or high-quality photos can lead to significant roaming charges.
Prepaid standard rates
If you don’t purchase an international pass, you will be charged as follows:
- Data: $0.50 per MB
- Talk: $1.00 per minute
- SMS: $0.50 per text
Warning: At $0.50 per MB, downloading a single high-quality photo or opening a data-heavy webpage could cost you over $10.00. Always ensure a pack is active to avoid roaming charges.
How to activate Optus roaming for Thailand
Activating Optus roaming for Thailand differs for postpaid and prepaid users. However, for both plans, you can easily activate roaming using the My Optus app.
Postpaid customers
- Open the My Optus app and select your service.
- Go to Settings > International Roaming.
- Ensure the toggle is ON and check your eligibility for the $5 or $10 Daily Roaming Passes.
Prepaid customers
- Open the My Optus app and go to Add-ons.
- Select International Roaming Packs and choose your preferred duration.
- Prepaid customers can use the Optus SMS Menu to buy roaming packs without needing the app or a data connection. Text the word “MENU” to 9999. You will receive a numbered list of options. Reply with the number for “Add-ons” or “Roaming” and follow the prompts.
Note: You must have a saved credit/debit card or PayID linked to your account to complete the purchase via SMS.
Pro-Tip: While texting BAL to 9999 is free even while roaming, the full MENU service is sometimes restricted once you are already overseas. It is much safer to buy your pack just before you board your flight at the airport.
Final Steps
- Before departing Australia, ensure roaming is enabled in the app.
- Once you land in Thailand, ensure Data Roaming is turned ON in your phone’s cellular settings.
Stay connected in Thailand with Holafly
If you want to avoid daily data limits and the stress of managing your usage while using Optus roaming in Thailand, Holafly eSIM offers unlimited data with flexible durations.
As a premier alternative for Australian travelers, Holafly Thailand eSIM allows you to stay connected without any concerns while exploring the country. Plans start as low as AU$5.90 per day, and the rate drops to $2.43 per day on long-term 90-day plans.
For digital nomads or those on a longer stay, Holafly Plans offers a monthly eSIM subscription with reliable coverage and 24/7 customer support. Additionally, these plans provide global connectivity in 170+ destinations with the same eSIM, ensuring you stay connected throughout your entire journey.
Unlimited data. Peace of mind.
Make sure you have travel data that's there when you need it most.
Disclaimer: The data in this article is accurate as of March 10, 2026, and is subject to change.
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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.
