Last updated on March 12th, 2024 at 05:55 am
Looking to visit Phuket and get a Phuket Airport SIM Card? We will write a full guide on how to buy a sim card in Phuket.
Landing at Phuket Airport and wondering if you can buy a sim card at Phuket Airport? Yes, there are kiosks and vendors with AIS, DTAC, and TrueMoveH, the leading providers for SIM card in Phuket and Thailand.
The easiest way is to order your eSIM online where you can get cheap data packages and unlimited data without buying a SIM card in Phuket. For eSIM options, you can opt for Airalo and Holafly
Luckily, Thailand and Phuket itself offer good connectivity to tourists and we’ll give you the updated choices in this guide.
Related Travel Guides:
- How To Get From Phuket Airport To City Center Best Way
- How To Get From Phuket Airport To Patong Beach Best Way
WHERE TO STAY IN PHUKET
Some accommodations only cost less than 500 THB that’s a room for below $15 USD! There are many mid-budget rooms in Phuket for $20-50 USD and you can find luxury rooms starting from $80 USD.
Click here to get the best hotel deals in Phuket with Booking and Agoda!
BOOK YOUR TRAVEL INSURANCE
Two of our favorite travel insurance: Heymondo Vs Safetwing cheapest travel Insurance. You can get for $135 USD your Heymondo Travel Insurance with Heymondo discount code valid for 90 days. Read our full comparison of Genki vs Safetywing Travel Insurance Review and the comparison Heymondo vs Genki
Why Buying A Phuket Airport SIM Card
If you want the comfort to book your taxi, Uber and check online before getting to your hotel. If you aren’t in a hurry and you want to save a few bucks just look for the official stores in Phuket.
If you compare prices at Phuket Airport you can get a great deal for a sim card $20 USD which is 700 THB 15 days of unlimited data. Pretty cheap yes! But if you buy a sim card in Phuket you will find better deals!
Immediate Connectivity: Choosing a SIM card at Phuket Airport ensures you have internet access and communication capabilities as soon as you arrive. This is essential for contacting accommodations, navigating to your next destination, or informing loved ones of your safe arrival.
Convenience: Upon landing, travelers can find several kiosks offering SIM cards within the airport premises. This eliminates the need to search for a reliable telecom provider in town, saving time and effort.
Cost-Effective: Compared to roaming charges, purchasing a local SIM card is significantly more affordable. Providers at the airport offer various plans tailored to tourists, ensuring you only pay for what you need during your stay.
Easy Activation: Telecom counters at the airport are staffed with English-speaking personnel who can assist with the quick activation of your SIM card, making the process hassle-free.
Plan Variety: With multiple providers available at the airport, you have the flexibility to choose a plan that best suits your data, call, and text needs. Options range from short-term to longer plans, catering to different lengths of stay and usage requirements.
Location of SIM Card Kiosks: Upon arrival at Phuket International Airport, travelers will find SIM card kiosks located in the arrivals area, immediately after exiting customs and easily identifiable with signs for major telecom providers, AIS, DTAC, or TrueMoveH.
It’s better to make your tourist SIM card Phuket airport purchase in the official offices of these local SIM Cards because we have seen small unofficial booths that sell near the baggage claim that later have SIM card plan issues when you start using them in Thailand.
Operating Hours: The kiosks operate in line with flight schedules, ensuring services are available for passengers of both early arrivals and late-night flights, so you should be able to find them any time of the day (or night!)
Phuket International Airport hosts kiosks for Thailand’s leading telecom providers, including AIS, DTAC, and TrueMove H. Each provider offers competitive rates and packages tailored for tourists.
AIS – Phuket Airport SIM Card
Offers a range of plans suitable for short-term and long-term visitors, with options for unlimited data, local, and international calls.
DTAC – Phuket Airport SIM Card
Known for its high-speed internet packages, DTAC provides various options catering to different data needs and budget constraints and even partners with a lot of SIM and eSIM providers to use their plans.
TrueMove H – Phuket Airport SIM Card
Features comprehensive plans that include generous data allowances, call minutes, and texting options, appealing to heavy data users and those requiring extensive local connectivity.
We’d have to say that these three companies are all reliable and would give you good coverage in almost all of Thailand, especially Phuket as it’s very touristic.
Choosing Your Plan
Assess Your Needs: Consider the length of your stay, data usage, and whether you’ll make local or international calls. This will help narrow down the best plan for you.
Compare Plans: Take a moment to compare the offers from AIS, DTAC, and TrueMove H. Look for any special tourist packages or promotions that might be available during your visit.
Ask for Assistance: Don’t hesitate to ask the staff for help. They can provide recommendations based on your needs and assist with any questions regarding plan details.
Where to Buy Your SIM Card in Phuket Outside the Airport: Plans and Prices
Here’s a closer look at each provider’s offerings, including prices and features, to help you make an informed choice:
1. AIS – SIM Card in Phuket
- Tourist SIM 30 Days: 299 THB (approx. $9 USD) for 15GB of high-speed internet, 100 THB call credit, and free AIS Super WiFi access. Ideal for short to medium stays with moderate data usage.
- Unlimited Data SIM 15 Days: 599 THB (approx. $18 USD) for unlimited internet at maximum speed for the first 6GB, then reduced speed. Includes 50 THB call credit. Suitable for heavy data users.
AIS has the best coverage for sim card in Phuket. Check out AIS store locations to buy a sim card in Phuket.
2. DTAC – SIM Card Phuket
- Happy Tourist SIM: 299 THB (approx. $9 USD) for 8.5GB of data valid for 7 days, including 100 THB call credit. Perfect for short stays focused on data usage.
- Tourist SIM 15 Days: 599 THB (approx. $18 USD) for unlimited data with the first 15GB at high speed, plus 100 THB call credit. A great option for travelers needing extensive data over a couple of weeks.
Check out DTAC store locations to buy a sim card in Phuket.
3. TrueMove H – Tourist SIM Card Phuket
- Tourist SIM 8 Days: 299 THB (approx. $9 USD) for unlimited data with the first 4GB at high speed, plus 30 THB call credit. Designed for short visits with a balance of call and data needs.
- Travel SIM Asia 10 Days: 499 THB (approx. $15 USD) for 6GB of data usable in Thailand and select Asian countries, plus 100 THB call credit. Ideal for regional travelers.
TrueMove H has the cheapest sim card in Phuket. Check out TrueMove store locations to buy a sim card in Phuket.
Choosing Your Plan
When selecting a SIM card, consider:
- Length of Stay: Shorter visits may benefit from DTAC or TrueMove H’s 7-8 day plans, while longer stays might find AIS’s 30-day option more economical.
- Data Usage: For heavy data users, AIS and DTAC offer plans with higher data allowances or unlimited data options.
- Regional Travel: If you’re planning to visit other countries in Asia, TrueMove H’s Travel SIM Asia could be a valuable choice.
Note: Prices and plan details are subject to change; always check with the provider for the most current offerings upon arrival.
Upon arrival at Phuket International Airport, travelers can find SIM card kiosks for major telecom providers like DTAC, AIS, and TrueMove H located throughout the airport, including the arrivals hall, after the customs exit. These kiosks are strategically placed to be easily accessible to arriving passengers, ensuring that you can purchase a tourist SIM card and top-up credit without any hassle. The exact locations of these kiosks can vary, but they are prominently displayed and easy to spot as you exit customs and enter the arrivals area. Make sure that where you are buying is the official office and be wary of people selling that may not be affiliated with the SIM brands themselves.
Purchasing a SIM Card at Phuket International Airport: A Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Locate the Telecom Kiosks
- After collecting your luggage and passing through customs, look for telecom kiosks in the arrivals area. Signs for AIS, DTAC, and TrueMove H are prominently displayed.
Step 2: Compare Available Plans
- Review the plans each provider offers. Consider your data needs, the length of your stay, and whether you need local or international calls.
- Ask the staff for any current promotions or packages specifically designed for tourists.
Step 3: Provide Necessary Documentation
- To purchase a SIM card, you will need to present a valid passport. The telecom staff will use this for registration as required by Thai law.
Step 4: Payment and Activation
- Choose your plan and make the payment. Most kiosks accept cash (Thai Baht) and credit cards.
- The staff will install the SIM card on your phone and activate it for you. Ensure your phone is unlocked before this step.
Step 5: Confirm Activation and Connectivity
- Before leaving the kiosk, verify that the SIM card is working by making a call, sending a text, or browsing the internet.
- Ensure you understand how to check your balance and top up your SIM card if needed.
eSIM Alternatives to Getting a SIM Card in Phuket Airport
For travelers with eSIM-compatible devices, eSIM options may also be available, offering a convenient and instant way to stay connected without the need for a physical SIM card. Activation can typically be done through a QR code provided after purchase, ensuring you’re connected even before leaving the airport.
Airalo is actually an official partner of DTAC, which means that if are already accustomed to eSIMS or thinking of buying your data plans in advance and are not worried about the little premium eSIMs charge, then you can be sure that Airalo will have a good signal in Phuket.
Here are Airalo’s prices for eSIM plans in Thailand:
1 GB for $4.50 valid for 7 Days
2 GB for $6 valid for 15 Days
3 GB for $18 valid for 30 Days
5 GB for $10.50 valid for 30 Days
10 GB for $16 valid for 30 Days
20 GB for $22 valid for 30 Days
Our Final Thoughts and Recommendations for Your Thailand SIM Card at Phuket Airport
Final Thoughts: Navigating Your Connectivity Options in Phuket
You can buy a sim card at Phuket Airport for 700 THB, which is around $20 USD, and you will get unlimited data for 15 days However, if you want cheaper price, you can buy a sim card in Phuket at the phone stores.
Cheapest Option when you buy SIM Card in Phuket: For those seeking the most cost-effective way to stay connected, the Happy Tourist SIM from DTAC at 299 THB (approximately $9 USD) for 8.5GB of data valid for 7 days offers a great balance of value and performance. It’s perfect for short stays and travelers focused on data usage.
Other Recommendations for Thailand SIM Card at Phuket Airport
- For travelers planning a longer stay or those who require more data, AIS’s Tourist SIM 30 Days plan provides 15GB of high-speed internet for just 299 THB (approximately $9 USD), making it an ideal option for most tourists.
- If you’re venturing beyond Thailand or prefer the convenience of not changing SIM cards, TrueMove H’s Travel SIM Asia 10 Days offers 6GB of data usable in Thailand and select Asian countries for 499 THB (approximately $15 USD).
- For those with eSIM-compatible devices looking for the ultimate convenience, Airalo’s eSIM plans offer competitive pricing and the flexibility to choose the amount of data that suits your needs, starting from as little as $4.50 for 1GB valid for 7 days.
Purchasing at Phuket Airport: Purchasing your SIM card from the official kiosks of AIS, DTAC, or TrueMove H immediately after exiting customs ensures legitimacy and avoids any potential issues with unofficial vendors. The staff at these kiosks are equipped to assist with activation and any questions you may have, making the process smooth and straightforward.
Our Final Advice:
- Always ensure your phone is unlocked before purchasing a SIM card or activating an eSIM.
- Consider your data needs, call requirements, and length of stay when choosing a plan.
- Don’t hesitate to ask for help at the kiosk if you’re unsure which plan best suits your needs.
By following this guide, you’re well on your way to staying connected throughout your Phuket adventure. Whether you opt for a traditional SIM card or embrace the convenience of an eSIM, you’ll have the connectivity you need to explore this beautiful island to the fullest. Safe travels, and enjoy the breathtaking landscapes, vibrant culture, and warm hospitality of Phuket!
FAQs for Phuket Airport SIM Card
Can I use my phone in Thailand?
Most modern smartphones are compatible with Thailand’s mobile networks. However, it’s essential to ensure your phone is unlocked and supports Thailand’s GSM, 3G, and 4G frequencies (900MHz, 1800MHz, and 2100MHz, respectively).
What documents do I need to buy a SIM card?
You will need to present a valid passport to purchase a SIM card. This is a regulatory requirement for registering your SIM card in Thailand.
How do I top up my SIM card?
You can top up your SIM card at convenience stores, through the telecom provider’s website, or via their app. Most providers also offer top-up kiosks at various locations.
What if my SIM card doesn’t work?
First, ensure your phone is compatible and unlocked. If problems persist, visit the nearest telecom provider’s store or contact their customer service for assistance.
Are eSIMs available for tourists in Phuket?
Yes, eSIMs are available for tourists and can be a convenient option. Check with the specific telecom providers for compatibility and plan options.
Can I use my SIM card in other parts of Thailand?
Yes, the SIM card you purchase at Phuket Airport will work throughout Thailand, providing you with nationwide coverage.
About the Author: Ruben, co-founder of Gamintraveler.com since 2014, is a seasoned traveler from Spain who has explored over 100 countries since 2009. Known for his extensive travel adventures across South America, Europe, the US, Australia, New Zealand, Asia, and Africa, Ruben combines his passion for adventurous yet sustainable living with his love for cycling, highlighted by his remarkable 5-month bicycle journey from Spain to Norway. He currently resides in Spain, where he continues to share his travel experiences alongside his partner, Rachel, and their son, Han.