As frequent travelers to Thailand who tested the top-rated eSIM cards in Thailand’s south, central, and north destinations, we are happy to present you with a clear, concise, and up-to-date list of the best ones.
No fluff, no overcomplication, just facts.
The recommended Thailand eSIM card providers in this article all offer packages with the best mobile networks, so you can be sure of great connectivity throughout the country.
For more information about Thailand mobile networks and SIM Card packages, check our dedicated article on the Best Thailand SIM Cards for Tourists – check this if your phone doesn’t support eSIM.
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About Thailand eSIMs for tourists
Thailand eSIMs have gained popularity among travelers due to the convenience and cost-effectiveness they offer.
eSIM, or embedded SIM, technology allows you to access mobile data without the need to switch SIM cards physically. Instead, eSIMs are built into your device and can be activated with a simple QR code.
This eliminates the need to carry multiple physical SIM cards or worry about losing or damaging them.
It’s especially beneficial if you frequently visit Thailand or visit multiple countries on a trip, as you conveniently switch between eSIM profiles for different destinations.
When using a Thailand eSIM, you can enjoy high-speed mobile data, access to popular apps and websites, and the ability to make internet calls using services like WhatsApp/Viber or Messenger – all while keeping your home number active.
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About eSIM providers for travelers in Thailand
With so many Thailand eSIM options available, it can be overwhelming to find the best one.
There are already so many companies, mostly selling very similar packages, and new ones are popping up like mushrooms after rain.
So we’ve listed the top-rated ones that we personally used, trust and that have a history of great customer reviews.
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Check the price and availability of the best Thailand hotels here.
Top three Travel eSIM providers for Thailand
Our recommended eSIM providers for travelers in Thailand are Thailandesim, Airalo, and SimOptions.
Thailandesim
Affordable, Best choice for unlimited plans
Airalo
Affordable for short and long trips
SimOptions
Great selection of eSIM and prepaid SIM plans
These providers offer a range of data plans and packages to suit different travel needs and budgets. All of the recommended providers also offer great network performance and customer support.
Whether you’re looking for unlimited data plans, budget-friendly options, or short-term solutions for weekend getaways, these providers have you covered. Some of the eSIM options also come with local phone numbers.
We’ll explore the various options and highlight the pros and cons of each recommended provider.
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Top Thailand eSIM options for travelers in 2024
1. Unlimited Data Plans
Unlimited data plans are a popular choice if you require a high amount of data usage during your stay in Thailand. These plans offer the freedom to use mobile data without worrying about running out or incurring additional charges.
Key features and benefits of unlimited data plans:
- High-speed data
- Wide network coverage
- No data usage restrictions
| Package | Thailand eSIM | Airalo | SimOptions |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8 days unlimited | $8.90 – 15GB max speed $12.90 – Max speed unlimited | ||
| 10 days unlimited | $12.90 – 50GB max speed | $9.90 – 50GB max speed | |
| 15 days unlimited | $19.90 – Max speed unlimited | $19.95 – Max speed unlimited | $19.90 – Max speed unlimited |
| 30 days unlimited | $34.90 – Max speed unlimited | ||
| Check packages | Check packages | Check package |
The bolded package options in the table mean it’s a TRULY UNLIMITED package with no speed limitations after using a certain amount of data.
Why we recommend unlimited data plans
Despite the higher upfront cost compared to limited data plans, unlimited data plans can offer better value for money.
In addition, all of the above-recommended (Thailandesim, Airalo, SimOptions) unlimited data plans offer a local phone number with free calls and allow hotspot/tethering (data sharing between devices), which is a seriously good deal.
NOTE
We used to recommend Holafly for unlimited eSIM data plans in Thailand, but as of 2024, they are extremely expensive compared to other options. This is especially true since they don’t allow hotspots (sharing data between devices) or a local phone number.
For some countries, Holafly is a great choice, but for Thailand, unfortunately not.
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2. Budget-Friendly Packages
For budget-conscious travelers, several Thailand eSIM providers offer affordable data packages.
Key features and benefits of budget-friendly eSIM packages:
- Flexible validity: shorter validity with more data or longer validity with less data
- Lower upfront cost: top-up as needed
As the below comparisons show, the cheapest Thailand eSIM is the Airalo 7-day 1GB plan for $4.50 or the Thailandesim 3-day 3GB plan for $4.90.
2.1. Thailadesim Budget Plans
As the table below shows, shorter-duration packages at Thailandesim can be cheaper, but only when you don’t need much data. Otherwise, the unlimited data plans are much more worth it.
| Thailand eSIM | 3 Days | 5 Days | 7 Days |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1GB/day | $5.00 | ||
| 2GB/day | $7.90 | ||
| 3GB/day | $10.00 | $16.00 | |
| 3GB | $4.90 | $5.50 | |
| 5GB | $7.50 | $8.50 | |
| 10GB | $13.50 | $14.50 | $15.00 |
| 20GB | $25.50 | $28.90 | |
| 50GB | $62.90 | $70.00 |
Thailandesim discount
Use the code SHIPPEDAWAY on checkout to claim a 5% discount on your eSIMs.
2.2. Airalo Budget Plans
Next up are Airalo’s budget plans, which are a great deal if you don’t need a lot of data.
You can score a 30-day plan with 5GB for only $10.50, or double that, and for $22.00, you get 20GB.
Airalo is a clear winner in terms of budget eSIM plans for Thailand.
| Airalo | 7 Days | 15 Days | 30 Days |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1GB | $4.50 | ||
| 2GB | $6.00 | ||
| 3GB | $8.00 | ||
| 5GB | $10.50 | ||
| 10GB | $16.00 | ||
| 20GB | $22.00 |
Airalo discount
Use the code MATEJ1033 to claim a $3 discount on your first Airalo eSIM purchase.
2.3. SimOptions Budget Plans
SimOptions doesn’t offer a wide selection of budget plans compared to other providers, although the 10-day 50GB option, which costs $12.90, isn’t a bad choice at all.
| SimOptions | 7 Days | 10 Days | 30 Days |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1GB | $4.50 | ||
| 10GB | $39.90 ($18.90 on discount) | ||
| 20GB | $69.90 ($32.90 on discount) | ||
| 50GB | $12.90 ($9.90 on discount) |
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3. eSIMs with local phone numbers
Having a local phone number can greatly benefit your stay in Thailand.
Key features and benefits of eSIMs offering local phone numbers:
- Local communication: With a local phone number, you can easily communicate with local contacts, businesses, and service providers, ensuring a smooth and convenient experience – tour operators, hotels, etc.
- Access to local apps: Having a local phone number provides you access to local apps, like Grab (Uber), so you can also receive and make calls when hailing a ride, ordering food, or similar.
- Cost savings: With a local phone number, you can make local calls without incurring long-distance charges.
It’s important to note that not all packages are the same, so some may include a phone number with unlimited calls, while others are data-only.
| Thailandesim | Airalo | SimOptions | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Provider has packages with a local phone number | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Check packages | Check packages | Check package |
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4. Long-term packages for extended stays and digital nomads
The providers we recommend offer eSIM options for extended stays in Thailand or for digital nomads who require long-term mobile internet access.
But we generally recommend buying a local package at stores of AIS, TrueMove, or DTAC.
Their long-term packages offer better value for money and plenty of top-up options. Plus, they can be a bit cheaper than the tourist offers when you plan on staying for two or more months.
However, if you’re staying for only a month, we highly recommend just getting the 30-day unlimited package by Thailandesim for $34.90 or the Airalo 30-day plan for $22.00, which gives you 20GB.
Read more about standard Thailand SIM Cards and details on the best operators in our Best Thailand SIM Cards article.
Benefits of buying an eSIM for Thailand
When traveling internationally, there are several advantages to choosing an eSIM over traditional SIM cards.
- Convenience: With eSIMs, there’s no need to physically swap SIM cards when traveling to different countries. eSIMs are built into compatible devices and can be activated digitally using a QR code.
- Cost savings: eSIMs often offer competitive data plans and pricing, allowing you to get online as soon as you arrive in the country and save on expensive international roaming charges.
- Environmental impact: eSIMs eliminate the need for plastic SIM cards, reducing waste and the environmental impact of traditional SIM cards.
Benefits of regional eSIM plans
In addition to all the above-mentioned benefits, eSIMs are perfect for multi-country trips, especially when traveling to Thailand and Southeast Asia, where it’s more common to visit multiple countries on one trip.
You can buy a South East Asia eSIM package, which, in addition to Thailand, gets you online in nearby countries like Vietnam, Cambodia, Malaysia, and Singapore.
Otherwise, if you buy separate eSIM packages for each country, it’s still quite straightforward to switch between different eSIM profiles without switching physical SIM Cards.
| Asia eSIM | 5 Days | 7 Days | 15 Days | 30 Days |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1GB/day | $7.50 | $9.90 | $19.50 | $37.50 |
| 2GB/day | $12.00 | $16.50 | $33.50 | $65.50 |
| 3GB/day | $16.00 | $22.00 | $45.50 | $89.50 |
| 3GB | $5.00 | $5.50 | $6.00 | $6.90 |
| 5GB | $8.00 | $8.50 | $9.00 | $10.00 |
| 10GB | $14.50 | $15.00 | $16.50 | $17.90 |
| 20GB | $27.50 | $28.90 | $31.50 | $33.50 |
| 50GB | $67.50 | $70.00 | $75.00 | $77.50 |
(Thailand, Hong Kong, Macao, Singapore, Malaysia, Indonesia, Cambodia, Vietnam)
Personally, we prefer buying separate packages, as we usually stay for a longer period in each country. Otherwise, for shorter trips involving multiple countries, the combo package provides a better value for money, with still enough data at each destination.
Device Compatibility: Ensuring your smartphone is eSIM compatible
Before using a Thailand eSIM, it’s important to ensure that your smartphone is compatible with eSIM technology.
| Brand | Model |
|---|---|
| Apple | iPhone 15, 15 Plus, 15 Pro, 15 Pro Max, iPhone 14, 14 Plus, 14 Pro, 14 Pro Max, iPhone 13, 13 Mini, 13 Pro, 13 Pro Max, iPhone 12, 12 Mini, 12 Pro, 12 Pro Max, iPhone 11, 11 Pro, 11 Pro Max, iPhone XS, XS Max, XR, iPhone SE (2020, 2022), iPad Air (3rd Generation), iPad Air (4th generation), iPad Pro 11-inch (1st-2nd-3rd generation), iPad Pro 12.9-inch (3rd-4th-5th generation), iPad (7th generation), iPad (8th generation), iPad (9th generation) iPad Mini (5th generation), iPad Mini (6th generation) |
| Samsung | Galaxy S23, Galaxy S23+, Galaxy S23 Ultra, Galaxy S22, Galaxy S22 Ultra, Galaxy S22+ , Galaxy S21, Galaxy S21 Ultra, Galaxy S21+ , Galaxy S20, Galaxy S20+, Galaxy Note 20, Galaxy Note 20+, Galaxy Note 20 Ultra, Galaxy Fold 4, Galaxy Fold 5, Galaxy Z Flip5, Galaxy Z Flip 4, Galaxy Z Flip 3 |
| Google Pixel 7, 7a, 7 Pro, 6, 6a, 6 Pro, 5, 4, 4a, 4 XL, 3, 3 XL, 3a, 3a XL | |
| Others | Huawei P40, Huawei P40 Pro, Huawei Mate 40 Pro, OPPO Find X5, OPPO Find X5 Pro, OPPO Find X3 Pro, Sony Xperia 10 IV, Sony Experia 10 III Lite, Motorola Razr (2019), Motorola Razr 5G, Nuu Mobile X5, Honor Magic 4 Pro, Fairphone 5, Fairphone 4 |
Please note that device compatibility may vary based on regional restrictions and carrier limitations. It’s important to check with your device manufacturer or eSIM provider to ensure compatibility before purchasing an eSIM.
You can check this convenient article about device compatibility.
For more information about Thailand mobile networks and SIM Card packages, check our dedicated article on the Best Thailand SIM Cards for Tourists – check this if your phone doesn’t support eSIM.
Thailand eSIM Step-by-Step Activation Guide
Activating your Thailand eSIM is a simple process that can be done in a few easy steps. Here is a step-by-step guide to help you activate your eSIM:
Time needed: 15 minutes
Thailand eSIM Step-by-Step Activation Guide
- Choose your eSIM provider
Select a reputable eSIM provider that offers data plans suitable for your travel needs in Thailand.
- Purchase your eSIM
Visit the eSIM provider’s website and choose the data plan that best suits your requirements. Add the plan to your cart and proceed to checkout to complete the purchase.
- Receive the QR code
After your purchase is complete, you will receive an email containing a QR code from the eSIM provider to your email address. Keep this email accessible on your device.
- Scan the QR code
On your device, open the camera app and scan the QR code received from the eSIM provider. This will activate the eSIM and initiate the download of the necessary eSIM profile. If you’re wondering how to do this on the phone, just save the QR code image or take a screenshot of it, and then tap on it in your photo gallery. It should scan it.
- Optional: Manually enter eSIM plan
If you can’t scan the QR code, follow the manual steps for adding the eSIM to your phone. It’s very straightforward and shouldn’t take a long time either.
- Confirm the eSIM activation
Follow the on-screen instructions to confirm the activation of the eSIM profile. This may involve entering a confirmation code or selecting the appropriate settings on your device. Sometimes, you need to send a text message to the provider’s provided phone number to activate the eSIM.
Ensure that your device has a stable internet connection for the initial activation process. We usually do this at the departure airport before flying into Thailand, so as soon as we land, we’re online. - Enable Data Roaming on the new eSIM plan
In your new eSIM plan settings, enable Data Roaming, otherwise it won’t work. Don’t forget this step!
- Turn off “Cellular Data Switching”
When you enable data roaming, make sure to turn off “Cellular Data Switching”; otherwise, the phone might switch to your home plan if the eSIM loses connectivity. This is usually something that rarely happens, but it’s possible in elevators of skyscrapers, where the connection drops. So, if your home plan gets connectivity first, it might cause extra costs.
- Set new eSIM data plan as primary
Make sure to set the new eSIM plan on your phone as the primary one for mobile data. This way, your home plan won’t be used for data, but it can still receive texts and phone calls.
Otherwise, remember to remove or disable your physical SIM card while using the eSIM to avoid any conflicts or additional charges. - Start using your Thailand eSIM
Once the eSIM activation is complete, you can start using your Thailand eSIM to access mobile data. The validity period usually starts when the eSIM connects to the local network’s cellular data. But make sure to check this, as sometimes it starts right after installation (Steps 5-6-7).
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, eSIMs in Thailand provide wide network coverage, including remote areas. However, network coverage may vary depending on the local mobile network operator. It’s recommended to check the coverage maps of different providers to ensure network availability in your specific travel destinations. Refer to our Best Thailand SIM Cards article for more information.
To top up data on your Thailand eSIM, you can follow the instructions provided by your eSIM provider. This may involve using an app or website to purchase additional data packages or credits. It’s recommended to top up before your current data plan expires to avoid any interruptions in connectivity.
Yes, with Thailand eSIMs, you can keep your home country and Whatsapp numbers active and still receive phone calls and texts. Just make sure to set the Thailand eSIM plan as the primary data plan so your home plan is not used and you avoid roaming charges.
Yes, it is possible to share data between devices with a Thailand eSIM. However, the ability to share data and the specific process (and number of devices) may vary depending on the eSIM provider and the plan you have chosen.
If you encounter connectivity issues with your Thailand eSIM, it’s recommended that you contact your eSIM provider’s customer support team. They can provide troubleshooting assistance and guide you through any necessary steps to resolve the issue.
Yes, there are many great Thailand eSIM packages with unlimited data. The most affordable choice is the 15 or 30-day one by Thailandesim.
Yes, many eSIM packages for Thailand now include a local Thai number for calls and texts.
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Final thoughts on choosing the best Thailand eSIM
We hope we have provided you with everything you need to choose the best eSIM for Thailand that will suit your travel itinerary and budget.
All of the recommended providers we listed in this article should deliver a great experience in terms of connectivity, network speeds, customer service, and ease of use.
Enjoy your Thailand trip!
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