Do all Mobile Devices support eSIM?

eSIM technology is now considered a staple feature for most phones released, however older devices and certain devices manufactured in specific locations do not support eSIMs. Click here – eSIM setup guide on Zendesk to view the full list of devices.

Can I use Voye’s eSIM anywhere in the world?

Almost! Voye eSIM coverage reaches up to 130+ countries globally. If you’re looking for a specific location, make sure you look it up first and see if we support it!Few notes:Cruises between destinations are not supported. Some locations have unstable network infrastructure, which might lead to a bad reception. For example the Sinay desert in Egypt is known for bad reception. While we will try to give you the best experience, we cannot vouch it for these areas.

How do I install my eSIM?

Installing your new eSIM is easy and simple! Just scan the QR code and you’ll be ready to go!Having issues with it? You can view our dedicated step-by-step installation guides for iOS & Android.

I’ve installed my eSIM, what’s next?

Did you know you can test your eSIM in your home country? With each eSIM you purchase you receive a free 100MB complementary plan. Simply turn on your Voye eSIM and try connecting to the internet. If it works, great! Your eSIM is working properly. If not you can check the step-by-step guides for iOS & Android.Just remember to turn off your eSIM once you are done testing it.

I’ve arrived at my destination, what do I do?

Simply turn on your Voye eSIM and you are ready to go!Something isn’t working? Check our iOS & Android guides to see everything was configured properly.Still unable to connect with your eSIM? Our support team can help you

How do I know how much data I’ve used up?

Simply log into Voye’s website and click My Account. Then choose My eSIMs. There you’ll be able to see your current eSIM, how much data you’ve used so far and how much data you have left on your plan. We’ll also send you email notifications once you’ve used 80% and 99% of your plan’s data.

Is my plan activated automatically?

Your plan will only activate once you reach your destination and activate your eSIM. As mentioned before, you can test your eSIM for free using the 100MB plan in your home country but doing so won’t activate your plan nor will it deduct from your total data usage.

Can I make phone calls or send SMSs using Voye’s eSIM?

You can! We have specific plans that include both incoming/outgoing calls and SMSs. You can view all details about these plans here – Global eSIM plans.In addition, you can use your eSIM to make voice calls using various apps such as Whatsapp & Telegram.

How much data do I need?

Data depends on your usage. If you’re texting or using Google Maps you won’t be using too much dataIf you plan on watching Netflix, TikTok and other video streaming apps, you might consume a higher amount of data.Here is a rough estimation for usage*: 1GB = 12 hours of browsing the web, 5 hours navigating with Google Maps, and listening to 200 songs.3GB = 36 hours of browsing the web, 15 hours navigating with Google Maps, listening to 600 songs and streaming video for 3 hours10GB = 120 hours of browsing the web, 50 hours navigating with Google Maps, listening to 2,000 songs and streaming video for 10 hours.This rough estimate is an example and by no means actual statistics for usage.

How can I contact Voye?

There are a few ways to contact us:Send us a WhatsApp message at +1929-566-4818,Contact us directly from our website’s chat.Send us an email to support@voyeglobal.com

How to Buy a SIM Card for Thailand?

Voye Global Team

December 3, 2025 · 6 min read

Getting a SIM card in Thailand is simple once you understand your options. This guide covers how to buy a SIM or eSIM at the airport, 7-Eleven, or official telecom shops, along with typical prices, data plans, validity and required documents. It explains which SIM type is best for backpackers, vacationers, digital nomads and business travelers, and compares physical SIMs with eSIMs for convenience and flexibility. You’ll also find step-by-step activation instructions, tips to avoid scams and why eSIMs are often the best choice for staying connected in Thailand.

Staying connected in Thailand is incredibly easy as long as you know the best way to buy a SIM card or eSIM. This comprehensive guide explains where to buy, how much it costs, data plans, what documents you need, and which option is best for backpackers, digital nomads, business travelers and vacationers.

Quick Overview

You need your passport to register any physical Thai SIM card.
The main mobile networks are AIS, DTAC and TrueMove H.
Tourist SIMs cost 299 to 1,599 THB depending on duration and data.
eSIMs can be purchased online and activated instantly.
Best for short trips: eSIM or 8 to 15 day tourist SIM.
Best for long stays: local monthly plans from the big operators.

Where to Buy a SIM Card in Thailand

1. Airport SIM Counters

Perfect for travelers who want to be connected immediately.

Pros

Easiest and fastest option
Staff set up everything for you
English-speaking support
No need to find a store later

Cons

Slightly more expensive than in the city
Possible queues during peak hours

Typical price: 299 to 1,199 THB
Validity: 8 to 30 days
Includes: high-speed 4G and 5G data, often unlimited with a fair-use limit

2. Convenience Stores (7-Eleven, FamilyMart)

Great for budget travelers or those who missed the airport counters.

Pros

Available everywhere with thousands of stores
Cheap prepaid starter packs

Cons

Staff may only sell the pack and send you elsewhere for registration
Occasional language barriers
Activation may take longer

Tip: Bring your passport because registration is required.

3. Official Telecom Shops

Found in malls, tourist areas and major streets.

Pros

Best support and troubleshooting
Can issue both physical SIMs and eSIMs
Good for long-term plans or monthly top-ups

Cons

Can be busy in large malls
Slightly more formal process

This is the best option for digital nomads who need dependable support or those staying more than a month.

4. Online eSIM (Instant Activation)

The fastest and most convenient method for most travelers.

Pros

Activate before you land
No physical SIM swap
No queues or paperwork
Perfect for late-night arrivals
Great deals on data-only packages

Cons

Requires an eSIM-compatible phone
Some plans do not include a Thai phone number
Hotspot rules vary depending on provider

Ideal for short trips and simple high-speed internet access.

Price Range, Validity and Data Plans

Below are typical ranges for 2025.

Tourist SIM (Physical SIM)

299 to 449 THB: 8 to 10 days with 10 to 25 GB
599 to 899 THB: 15 to 30 days with 20 to 50 GB or unlimited with fair use
1,199 to 1,599 THB: long-stay tourist plans 30 to 60 days

eSIM Plans

9 USD: small plans with 5 GB
10 to 19 USD: medium plans with 8 to 25 GB
6 to 39 USD: unlimited 7 to 30-day plans

Note: Unlimited usually means high-speed data until a daily fair-use limit.

Which SIM Card Is Best for You

Backpackers

Priority: affordability and coverage
Best choice: 8 to 15 day tourist SIM or low-cost eSIM
AIS is best for widest coverage with DTAC and True offering good value in cities

Vacationers

Priority: simple and convenient connectivity
Best choice: airport tourist SIM or eSIM
Ideal if you mostly need Google Maps, social media and messaging

Digital Nomads

Priority: strong 4G and 5G, good upload speeds and hotspot capability
Best choice:
- Local operator plan with monthly data
- Monthly eSIM plan if you do not need a Thai phone number
Visit an official shop for best setup and support

Business Travelers

Priority: reliability on arrival
Best choice:
- eSIM activated before landing
- Airport SIM with voice and SMS included
Keep your home SIM active for OTP and banking codes

Physical SIM vs eSIM

Physical SIM

Pros

Works on any unlocked phone
Provides a local Thai phone number
Good if you need calls and SMS

Cons

Must queue to buy
Passport registration required
Can lose or damage the small card

eSIM

Pros

Instant activation
No physical handling
Lets you use dual SIM for convenience
Perfect for frequent travelers
Easy to top up or switch plans

Cons

Only works on eSIM-compatible phones
Some plans are data-only
Not transferable between devices

Final verdict:
For most travelers, eSIM is easier, faster and far more flexible.

How to Buy and Activate a Thai SIM Card

A) Buying at the Airport

Find the AIS, DTAC or TrueMove H counter
Choose your tourist plan
Present your passport
Staff installs and activates the SIM
Test the data before leaving

B) Buying at 7-Eleven

Pick a tourist SIM pack
Ask staff to help register
If not available, go to the nearest telecom kiosk
Provide your passport

C) Buying at an Official Telecom Shop

Choose your plan
Provide your passport
Staff activates the SIM or eSIM
Ask them to enable 5G and hotspot, and show top-up options

D) Activating an eSIM

Check if your phone supports eSIM
Buy from a trusted provider
Receive a QR code
Add the eSIM profile from your phone settings
Activate data when ready
Test the network

Documents Needed

Passport is required for all physical SIM cards
One SIM is tied to your passport during registration
International eSIMs usually do not require passport registration

Tips to Avoid Scams

Buy only from official counters, telecom shops or reputable online eSIM providers
Avoid street vendors
Test your internet before leaving the counter
Read fair-use rules on unlimited plans
Keep your SIM packaging and top-up receipts
Download the operator’s app for usage tracking