Where to buy a SIM on arrival
The three big operators (AIS, True and dtac) run counters in the arrivals halls of Suvarnabhumi and Don Mueang. This is the simplest option: the salesperson installs the SIM and activates it in front of you. Bring your passport (registering a SIM requires ID) and allow some time in case of a queue. You can also find SIMs in town, in operator shops and shopping malls, sometimes a little cheaper than at the airport. For connections from the airport, see our guide to Bangkok's airports.
Which plans and what prices
According to comparison sites consulted in October 2026 (unofficial, to be confirmed):
- AIS: about 699 baht for 15 days of unlimited 5G/4G data, with a small call credit.
- dtac: about 599 baht for 15 days, with 30 GB at full speed then reduced speed.
- True: about 599 to 899 baht for 15 days, with a fair-use cap of about 3 GB a day on some plans.
Durations generally run from 8 days to a month. Choose according to your use: browsing, maps and Grab use little; tethering and video use much more.
SIM or eSIM?
- eSIM: convenient, with no counter and no physical card. It requires a recent compatible, unlocked phone. AIS, dtac and True offer tourist eSIMs, to activate before departure or on arrival; international resellers also sell them, often at a higher price for the same data.
- Physical SIM: works with any unlocked phone; its local Thai number is useful for receiving verification codes for some apps.
- Roaming: comfortable but often expensive outside a plan; check your operator's options before leaving.
Tips
- Turn off roaming on your home SIM to avoid charges.
- Count on hotel and café wifi as a backup; it is widespread but uneven.
- Keep the receipt and the operator's customer-service number in case of activation problems.
- A connection is useful for payments and ordering a car: see our guide to transport in Bangkok and the one on money and payment.
Going further
To prepare your arrival, also read our guide to a first trip to Bangkok and the one on the budget.
