Getting online in Thailand: SIM, eSIM or roaming

Airport SIM desks, eSIM before you fly, and the practical difference between them when you need a map at 11pm.

Thailand’s mobile networks are fast and cheap. A tourist SIM at Suvarnabhumi costs a fraction of most European roaming add-ons and comes with a data allowance measured in tens of gigabytes.

An eSIM installed before you fly avoids the queue at the airport desk, which after a long flight is the main thing you are buying.

The practical choice

Airport SIMAIS, True and dtac all have desks in arrivals. Bring your passport — registration is required.

eSIMBuy and install before travel. Works on most recent phones; check yours supports it.

CoverageGood in cities and on the main islands. Patchy on remote islands and in national parks.

Wi-FiCommon in hotels and cafés, rarely worth relying on for maps.

Questions

Do I need a local number?

For tour operators and drivers, yes. Most confirmations arrive by phone or messaging app.

Does my hotel need a phone number?

Pickups usually do. Give the number of the SIM you will be using.

Written for travellers booking Thailand independently. Facts about specific tours come from the operator’s product record; practical advice is ours and marked as such. Prices and availability are checked on Viator, not guaranteed by us.

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