Best eSIM and SIM card for Thailand
Tourist SIM or eSIM? Real 2026 prices and a quick way to decide.
Staying connected in Thailand is cheap and the mobile networks are fast. You have two good options: a Thai tourist SIM bought at the airport, or an eSIM installed before you fly.
Tourist SIM prices (AIS and True)
| Package | AIS | True |
|---|---|---|
| 1 day | ฿49 | – |
| 5 days | ฿399 | – |
| 8 days | ฿499 | ฿499 |
| 15 days | ฿699 | ฿699 |
| 30 days | ฿1,199 | ฿1,199 |
Prices from Visit Thailand Today, October 2026. dtac now shares True's network. You need your passport to register the SIM and an unlocked phone. Since August 2025, tourist SIMs last a maximum of 60 days.
Airport counters are in the arrivals halls at Suvarnabhumi, Don Mueang, Phuket and Chiang Mai. 7-Eleven sells top-ups but not tourist SIMs.
eSIM: set up before you land
An eSIM installs on your phone at home in a few minutes and starts working when you land, so there is no queue at the airport. Thai eSIM data plans start from about $4. They use the same Thai networks, but most are data-only, so you will not get a Thai phone number.
Partner links. If you book through them we may earn a small commission, at no extra cost to you.
Which should you choose?
| If… | Choose |
|---|---|
| You want data the moment you land | eSIM |
| You need a Thai number (for Grab, deliveries, bookings) | Tourist SIM |
| Heavy data use for a month | Tourist SIM 30 days |
| Your phone is older than about 2018 | Tourist SIM |
| Several countries in one trip | Regional eSIM |
Questions people ask
What is the best SIM card for tourists in Thailand?
AIS and True both sell tourist SIMs at the same prices: ฿499 for 8 days, ฿699 for 15 days and ฿1,199 for 30 days. AIS also has a 5-day option for ฿399.
Is an eSIM or a SIM better in Thailand?
An eSIM is easier because you install it at home. A physical tourist SIM gives you a Thai number and is good value for heavy use.
Can I buy a SIM card at 7-Eleven in Thailand?
7-Eleven sells top-up credit but not tourist SIM packages. Buy at the airport or at AIS and True shops in town.
Do I need a passport to buy a SIM in Thailand?
Yes. Every SIM must be registered to a passport. Staff usually do it in a few minutes.