Can I use my phone number from home?

No, you get a new Thai phone number with the SIM card. WhatsApp and other apps work normally with your existing accounts.

Do I need to unlock my phone?

Yes, your phone must be unlocked to use a Thai SIM card. Contact your home carrier before traveling if unsure.

What happens when my data runs out?

Buy top-up packages at any 7-Eleven, phone shop, or through the carrier's app. Data packages start at 100 baht for 3GB.

Can I keep the same number if I come back to Thailand?

SIM cards expire after 3-6 months of inactivity. You'll need a new number on future visits unless you maintain the account.

Which airports sell SIM cards?

All major Thai airports have SIM card counters in arrivals: Bangkok (BKK and DMK), Phuket, Chiang Mai, Krabi, and Koh Samui.

How to Buy a SIM Card in Thailand as a Tourist

Buy a SIM card at the airport arrival hall or any 7-Eleven store. Bring your passport. Tourist SIM cards with data start at 299 baht for 15 days. The three main networks are AIS, True, and dtac.

Choose your network. AIS has the best coverage nationwide. True offers good speeds in cities. dtac is cheapest but has weaker rural coverage. All three work fine for most tourists.
Go to the airport or 7-Eleven. Airport counters in arrivals halls offer tourist packages and will set up your phone. 7-Eleven stores are everywhere and sell SIM cards 24/7. Airport is easier but more expensive.
Bring your passport. Thai law requires ID to register any SIM card. Your passport is mandatory. No exceptions.
Ask for a tourist package. Tourist SIM cards come pre-loaded with data and calls. Say 'tourist SIM card' or point to the tourist packages displayed. Staff usually speak basic English.
Choose your data amount. 15-day packages: 6GB for 299 baht, 15GB for 499 baht. 30-day packages: 20GB for 799 baht. Most tourists need 6-15GB.
Let them install and test. Staff will cut the SIM to size, install it, and test the connection. This takes 5-10 minutes. Don't leave until you see data working.

Can I use my phone number from home?: No, you get a new Thai phone number with the SIM card. WhatsApp and other apps work normally with your existing accounts.
Do I need to unlock my phone?: Yes, your phone must be unlocked to use a Thai SIM card. Contact your home carrier before traveling if unsure.
What happens when my data runs out?: Buy top-up packages at any 7-Eleven, phone shop, or through the carrier's app. Data packages start at 100 baht for 3GB.
Can I keep the same number if I come back to Thailand?: SIM cards expire after 3-6 months of inactivity. You'll need a new number on future visits unless you maintain the account.
Which airports sell SIM cards?: All major Thai airports have SIM card counters in arrivals: Bangkok (BKK and DMK), Phuket, Chiang Mai, Krabi, and Koh Samui.