Prepaid SIM card for Thailand: Where to buy in 2023?

Visit the “Land of Smiles,” which combines old traditions with technological marvels and get cellular data with a prepaid SIM card for Thailand while you’re there. Learn how to stay online cheaply and explore this marvelous land. Thailand provides a variety of experiences, from the bustling streets of Bangkok to the peaceful temples of Chiang Mai and the pristine beaches of Phuket. Explore magnificent temples, take part in vivid festivals, and sample the exquisite flavors of Thai food to immerse yourself in the rich cultural history. Thailand never fails to create a lasting impression, whether you want adventure in the lush woods, leisure on lovely islands, or encounters with kind locals.

With a Thailand virtual data SIM card from Holafly, you can surf the internet while enjoying the wonders of Bangkok or the beautiful Koh Chang beaches at a low price. Forget roaming fees, surprise bills and begin to discover with a care in the world!

Where to buy a SIM card for Thailand?

There are several things to keep in mind when you decide to get a data SIM card for your travels to Thailand. This includes how many days you’re going to be abroad, how much internet you need, prices and rates. Check what each provider has to offer and select the once that best suites our needs. The best way to buy a data SIM card for Thailand is through online stores, which offer cheap rates. You could also purchase a SIM card after you’ve arrived in Thailand from stores in airports or in the city.

Boats ashore Thailand. Source: Pexels.com

There are several options for visitors to get a data SIM card in Thailand and these include an e-commerce that sells prepaid SIM cards, both tangible and digital.

• The general recommendation is to buy before you leave to avoid delays and wasting time once you’re at your destination.
• Others prefer to get their SIM card in person once they’re in Thailand.
• There is, however, one option where you can get your virtual SIM card for Thailand before or even during your trip. This would be through an online store like Holafly.

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Buy before you travel.

Purchasing a travel SIM card or eSIM before taking your flight to Thailand ensures consistent connectivity, cost savings, access to local services, and a smooth travel experience. It’s a little but important step that can considerably improve your stay in the Land of Smiles.

Verify the data, calling, and SMS packages various carriers offer to verify they match your needs. Consider the length of your visit, your anticipated data consumption, and be aware of any limitations or restrictions on the types of devices that can support eSIM. While newer smartphones and devices are compatible, it’s always a good idea to double-check. Finally, consider the provider’s coverage and network reliability. Major providers in Thailand provide substantial service in urban areas and famous tourist spots, but if you plan to stray off the main route, you should check network strength in those locations first.

Perks of buying before you leave

Why should you buy your SIM card before traveling? Let’s take a look at the advantages:

1. 1. Connectivity the moment you land

If you purchase your data SIM card from a store like Holafly before you leave, you’ll be able to connect to the internet the moment you touch down in Thailand, so you can order a cab or let your family know you’re safe. It will also save you time so you can start exploring Thailand straight away. The less time you spend at the airport, the better.

• 2. One cheap, upfront cost

Cellular providers in Thailand offer higher prices, especially for tourists. Don’t get ripped off. If you buy from Holafly’s online store, you’ll pay a low upfront price.

• 3. Straightforward option

You don’t want to end up having to waste time looking for a SIM or eSIM once you arrive, adding to that, if you don’t know the language you’ll have a difficult time trying to communicate with the locals.

Buy your travel SIM card in Thailand.

Buying your SIM card in Thailand might be more expensive and be a hassle. However, it does offer one advantage:

• More options

Stores in Thailand might offer more data plans, allowing you to pick the option which best suits your needs. You’ll also be able to choose between different providers in Thailand. We recommend AIS or DTAC as they offer the best coverage in Thailand.

How much does a SIM card for Thailand cost?

SIM cards for Thailand from local operators

The SIM cards for Thailand come with different package plans depending on the length of your trip and the operator you choose. Keep in mind that the postpaid and even prepaid SIMs in Thailand are generally only for Thai residents with a Thai ID card. To get a SIM as a foreigner, you’ll have to contact the operators’ customer service. Nonetheless, we have a few details about what the local carriers offer:

1. AIS (Advanced Info Service):
   • SIM Net Marathon: This is a popular tourist SIM card option.
     • Price: Starts at around 499 THB (approximately $15).
     • Offers: Includes data, local and international calling, SMS, and validity ranging from 7 to 15 days, depending on the package.
2. TrueMove H:
   • Yearly True SIM: Another popular choice for tourists. You’ll have to wait for 1 – 3 days to receive the SIM card in Thailand and you’ll have to register the SIM within 7 days if you buy online. Otherwise, you can go in person where you’ll need to provide documentation.
     • Price: Starts at around 500 THB (approximately $15).
     • Offers: Provides a data allowance, local and international calling, SMS, and validity for 3 months.
3. dtac (Total Access Communication):
   • dtac Tourist SIM: Specifically designed for tourists visiting Thailand.
     • Price: Starts at around 299 THB (approximately $9).
     • Offers: Includes a data allowance, local and international calling, SMS, and a validity range that goes from 8 to 15 days, depending on the package.

Virtual SIM card for Thailand, the new alternative

Now we’ve learned about data SIM cards. It’s time to meet the newest way to access an internet connection. eSIMs (short for embedded SIM) are new, digital SIM cards that provide internet at a competitive price. But is an eSIM better than a traditional SIM card? The main advantage is that you can get a digital SIM card anywhere in the world, and it’s delivered to you via email immediately! Let’s take a look at their advantages and disadvantages in the next section:

Advantages and disadvantages of the virtual SIM card

Advantages:

• Quick purchase and activation processes

Purchasing and activating an eSIM is easy. You just purchase from a store like Holafly and within a few seconds you’ll receive a QR code on your emails. With this, you can activate your eSIM and remain connected.

• Get an eSIM anywhere in the world.

Are you already in Thailand and struggling to stay online? No matter where you are, you can always buy an eSIM, which will arrive directly to your cellphone. There is no shipping fee and you don’t have to wait more than a few minutes.

• Affordable rates

Compared to paying data roaming charges, eSIMs are incredibly cheap. You pay one upfront fee for the eSIM, so you don’t have to worry about surprise bills. Holafly offers eSIM deals for as little as $19!

• Multi-country coverage

If you’re traveling around multiple countries on your vacation, with Holafly’s multi-country virtual SIM cards, you can connect to the internet in several Asian countries.

Disadvantages:

• Limited compatibility with cellphones

The main disadvantage of eSIM cards is their limited compatibility. As a new technology, many older cellphones don’t support eSIMs, so before you buy, check if your cellphone is compatible.

How much does the eSIM card for Thailand cost?

Thailand virtual SIM card with unlimited data

The Holafly virtual SIM cards for Thailand have the following plans and packages available:

Days of use	Amount of data	Price (USD)
5 days	Unlimited	$19
7 days	Unlimited	$27
10 days	Unlimited	$34
15 days	Unlimited	$47
20 days	Unlimited	$54
30 days	Unlimited	$64
60 days	Unlimited	$84
90 days	Unlimited	$99

Virtual Asia SIM Card

If you want to travel to other countries in Asia, we recommend you buy the multi-country Asia eSIM for coverage throughout the continent.

Days of use	Amount of data	Price (USD)
5 days	Unlimited data	$27
7 days	Unlimited data	$34
10 days	Unlimited data	$37
15 days	Unlimited data	$47
20 days	Unlimited data	$54
30 days	Unlimited data	$64

Get your data eSIM and you’ll be connected in no time and have the time of a lifetime!

Frequently Asked Questions about SIM cards for Thailand

Any questions? See below for the most frequent questions about connectivity in Thailand.