How to get a 3G/4G SIM card with internet in Thailand

Whether it’s to share your travel moments, browse the internet, or use local apps, having a 3G/4G SIM card with internet in Thailand is essential to stay connected during your stay. Fortunately, it is very easy and affordable to buy a SIM card in Thailand. Here is a step-by-step guide to help you get a 3G/4G SIM card with internet during your trip to Thailand.

1. Where to buy a SIM card in Thailand?

At the airport

Most airports in Thailand, including Bangkok Suvarnabhumi (BKK), Don Mueang (DMK), and Phuket, have kiosks selling SIM cards. As soon as you arrive, you can easily buy a SIM card for your phone. These kiosks typically offer prepaid packages that include local calls, texts , and 3G/4G internet access.

• Pros : Ease of purchase, right after your arrival, without the need to look for a store.

• Tip : Compare prices and plans to choose the one that best suits your needs.

In mobile phone stores

Major phone chains like AIS, TrueMove H, and DTAC have stores in shopping malls (e.g., MBK Center, Siam Paragon), and you can also find them all over the city. These stores offer a wide variety of prepaid SIM cards, including plans with 3G/4G high-speed internet .

• Advantages : A wide choice of SIM cards and offers, possibility to ask questions to a salesperson.

• Tip : Prepare your passport for registration, as Thai law requires identification for the purchase of a SIM card.

In small grocery stores or 7-Eleven

If you don’t have time to look for a specialty store, you can also buy prepaid SIM cards at local grocery stores or 7-Eleven, which can be found all over Thailand. These stores sell basic SIM cards, often with data plans at affordable prices.

• Pros : Ease of access, more options for small amounts of data.

• Tip : Local stores may have slightly lower prices than larger malls.

2. Choose the right internet plan

The main operators

Thailand offers several mobile operators, each offering different types of plans for internet, with 3G or 4G speeds. Here are the three main operators:

• AIS : One of the largest operators in Thailand, offering excellent network coverage and 4G plans with large amounts of data.

• TrueMove H : Very popular among tourists, with competitively priced packages, good services, and 4G options.

• DTAC : Another major provider, with attractive plans for 4G internet and affordable prices.

Types of Plans

Carriers offer different types of prepaid plans that can include:

• Internet only : Ideal if you just want to use data without worrying about calls or messages.

• Combo Plans : Including local calls, SMS and internet.

• Daily or weekly internet : If you’re in Thailand for a short period of time, data plans limited to 7 days or 30 days are convenient.

• Tip : If you use a lot of data, opt for a plan with more gigabytes to avoid additional charges.

Recommended Packages for Tourists

Here are some examples of popular tour packages:

• AIS 3G/4G Tourist SIM : Offers 15 days of 6GB data and unlimited local calls for around 300 THB (approx. 9 EUR).

• TrueMove H Tourist SIM : Offers 8GB of 4G data for 15 days for around 299 THB (about 8 EUR).

• DTAC Happy Tourist SIM : Offers 5GB of 4G data for 7 days for around 250 THB (about 7 EUR).

3. Activate your SIM card and start using it

Once you’ve purchased your SIM card, activation is usually very simple. If you bought your SIM card at the airport or at a specialist shop, the staff will help you activate it. If you make the purchase at a 7-Eleven or other store, here’s what you need to do:

1. Insert the SIM card into your phone.

2. If the activation is not automatic, you can usually activate the plan by sending a message or calling a specific number that is given to you on the purchase receipt.

3. If you’re having trouble activating your SIM card, you can call your carrier’s customer service or visit a store.

4. Practical tips

• Check the network coverage : Make sure that your chosen carrier offers good 4G coverage in the areas where you plan to travel.

• Don’t forget the passport : As mentioned, you will need to provide your passport when purchasing a SIM card.

• Check for promotions : Operators often offer promotions for tourists, so be sure to ask for a special package for foreigners.

• Beware of additional fees : If you use more data than is included in your plan, you risk additional charges. Some SIM cards allow you to check your data usage via a mobile app or a USSD code.

Conclusion

Getting a 3G/4G SIM card with internet in Thailand is quick and easy, with a wide variety of options to suit all needs. Whether it’s at the airport, in a shop, or at a 7-Eleven, you’ll easily find a prepaid SIM card to stay connected during your stay. Make sure you choose a plan that suits your data usage and take advantage of the fast internet to explore Thailand at your own pace!