What are the best options for purchasing a SIM card in Thailand for international use?

Oct 21, 2024
2 months ago
David *********
ORIGINAL POSTER
We're coming from the U.S. and staying in Thailand for at least 60 days. We currently have Verizon and could use their international plan, but we’re curious about other options. Does anyone have experience with buying a SIM card in Thailand that works internationally? Any recommendations would be appreciated!
1,353
views
2
likes
25
all likes
18
replies
1
images
15
users
TLDR : Answer Summary
Expats traveling to Thailand for at least 60 days have several options for mobile connectivity. While some may consider using Verizon's international plan, others have shared their experiences of purchasing local Thai SIM cards, which can be easily acquired at 7-Eleven or at airport counters. It's essential to ensure that your phone is unlocked to use a local SIM. Popular providers include AIS, True, and DTac, which offer affordable data and calling plans. Additionally, many recommend using messaging apps like WhatsApp, Line, or Skype for international calls to save costs. eSIM options, like Airalo, are also available for compatible devices. Overall, Wi-Fi is widely accessible in Thailand, allowing for seamless communication using various online platforms.
Jef ********
Bro just pay $5 extra and get the SIM card in the airport while waiting for your bags. It’s not worth the hassle of going to a
****
. All the people at the airport speak English. And there is a counter at just about every baggage carrousel
Martin *********
You can get a SIM card and a 60-day plan at either the airport or at 7-Eleven once you get to your hotel. The advantage of getting it at the airport is they will either set you up with an esim or put in a new SIM card for you.
Jay **********
Well if you got Verizon I feel for you, I just dropped my plan. It works fine until you 10gig of data runs out and then your phone is no more than a brick until next cycle or you spend stupid amounts of money just to get 2 extra gigs. Like people say there's wifi everywhere, so you can use WhatsApp, line heck even call on Facebook messenger. I got a Thai sim card but just for data and Thailand calls, international calls I use one of the above mentioned. Good luck
Eric ******
When you say you can 'use' it, does than mean you have a plan that doesn't include it? If so, no way i would buy the add on international day pass. I'm here now and have the Verizon Unlimited Ultimate Plan and it works great. No problems at all, and can't beat that international is INCLUDED in the price! I also have a Thai SIM card in my other phone, but that's only because I'm going to be here long term. If you'll be here 2 months or less, you won't need a Thai SIM card, unless you just want one. If you use your Verizon plan for more than several months overseas, I've read where they 'could' suspend international service, but people on here have said they've used it for much longer with no issues. I didn't want to chance it because I'll be traveling to multiple countries and it's nice to have a phone when I first land before I can get a SIM card if I decide to. If you get a SIM card here, mine gives me unlimited data and calls in Thailand. To call back home without using my plan, I can also use WiFi calling and it won't show up on my plan usage. It's free, just make sure to set your phone to WiFi Calling in the settings before you leave the US. You can also use FB Messenger, IG, Skype, etc to call back home, they work great also. Most people here use WhatsApp and Line, even businesses, so you call or message them using your data. I have AIS and they are prob one of if not the largest and most reliable carriers here. I did some research and that's who I chose. The initial payment for the SIM card and first month was $500 baht, and after that I reup it for $200 baht per month ($6!). I've been pretty impressed with it. So as you can see, you have lots of options, so that's one LESS thing to worry about for your trip. 😁 I'll include a pic of some good Apps to download before you get here.

Enjoy!
Michael ***********
For International calls only, no need for a SIM. Go online and look up yolla.com. VERY cheap to call the U.S. or wherever. I can call Internationally from the U.S. too..and very cheap(not necessary that much nowadays if your friends/fam have the same Social Media website to call(FB, WhatsApp, Viber, etc).
Robert *********
Wi fi everywhere ,don't stress
Gary **********
If you get a sim or e-sim and have access to internet then use Skype. I’m from the US as well and my calls cost around two cents a minute. You do have to buy time and you can even get a US phone number.
Chris *********
Get a Google Voice number. With wifi you can call and it looks like a domestic call to those you call.
Janne ***********
I have T-mobile Intl, and I don't use anything else,,,messenger/whatsapp/Line etc, unlimited data, and actual calls 25c,,but whoever needs that anymore,,
Bobby *******
@Janne **********
calls to the US are free over WiFi. So go into airplane mode and you can call the USA for free on certain T-mobile plans
Janne ***********
@Bobby ******
thx...aware but I never use it anyway as whatsapp and messenger works fine
Alessandro **********
If your phone is locked, you can buy a cheap unlocked phone with a Thai SIM and use it as a Wi-Fi hot-spot. Otherwise, go to AIS counter at airport (at arrivals) and they will set up the SIM and data connection in less than 10 minutes. Other companies like True and DTac are also good
David ***********
If your phone takes an esim but Airalo Asialink
Bobby *******
You need to make sure your phone is unlocked from Verizon to use a Thai SIM card. Is your phone paid in full and unlocked? This is the first step
Frankie *******
Go to
****
in thailand n the staff there will help u load up a sim card n u also show them your passport to upload n after that all phones numbers transfer to whatsaap n there u go free calls anywhere in the world
Wayne *********
@Frankie ******
I have not tried with WhatsApp but do the ones you call also need the WhatsApp App loaded ?
Frankie *******
@Wayne ********
yes they do
Wayne *********
@Frankie ******
Ok so WhatsApp good for family and friends but useless for business calls such as bank or government departments.
Thai Visa Advice and Everything Else
... members · 60% approval rate
The Thai Visa Advice And Everything Else group allows for a broad range of discussions on life in Thailand, beyond just visa inquiries.
Join the Group
Thai Visa Advice and Everything Else
View the Conversation
Thai Visa Advice and Everything Else