Updated June 2026 · Thailand Travel Guide
The Complete Thailand
eSIM & Travel Guide
Skip the airport SIM queue. Grab a ZetSIM Thailand eSIM before you board — instant activation, 4G/5G data, and plans from 7 to 30 days covering Bangkok, Phuket, Chiang Mai and every island in between.
4G / 5G Coverage
Instant Activation
No Physical SIM Swap
25% OFF with ZETSIM25
AIS · DTAC · True Move 4G/5G
No roaming charges
Activate before or after landing
1M+ App Downloads
Satisfaction Guaranteed
Carrier Comparison
ZetSIM vs AIS vs DTAC vs True Move
All three local Thai carriers are excellent. The real question is whether you buy a tourist SIM at the airport or grab a ZetSIM eSIM before you board. Here's how they stack up.
| Feature | ZetSIM eSIM | AIS Tourist SIM | DTAC Tourist SIM | True Move H SIM |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Type | eSIM — Digital | Physical SIM | Physical SIM | Physical SIM |
| Buy before flying | ✓ Yes, online | ✗ Airport only | ✗ Airport only | ✗ Airport only |
| Network | AIS / DTAC / True | AIS | DTAC / NPERF | True Move H |
| Max speed | 5G where available | 4G LTE | 4G LTE | 4G / 5G limited |
| Unlimited data | ✓ Yes | ✓ Yes (FUP) | ✓ Yes | ✓ Yes |
| Keep home SIM active | ✓ Yes, dual-SIM | ✗ Swap needed | ✗ Swap needed | ✗ Swap needed |
| Airport queue | ✓ Zero | ✗ 20–45 min | ✗ 20–45 min | ✗ 20–45 min |
| Discount | 25% ZETSIM25 · 50% ZETPASS | Fixed price | Fixed price | Fixed price |
| ZetCoins cashback | ✓ 5% back | ✗ | ✗ | ✗ |
Setup Guide
How to set up your Thailand eSIM
Works on iPhone XS and above, Samsung Galaxy S20+, Google Pixel 3+ and most 2021+ Android. Takes under 3 minutes.
1
Buy your plan
Choose a Thailand eSIM plan — 7-day, 15-day, or 30-day. Apply code ZETSIM25 for 25% off instantly.
→
2
Get your QR code
QR code delivered by email instantly. No waiting, no physical delivery, no airport counter required.
→
3
Install the eSIM
iPhone: Settings → Mobile Data → Add eSIM → Scan QR. Android: Settings → Network → SIMs → Add eSIM.
→
4
Activate on arrival
Toggle on your Thailand eSIM when you land. Validity starts then. Keep your home SIM active for calls and 2FA.
iPhone eSIM tip: Make sure your device is carrier-unlocked before installing. Go to Settings → General → About — look for "No SIM Restrictions" under Carrier Lock. Most unlocked iPhones support up to 8 stored eSIMs.
Data Calculator
How much data do you actually need?
Adjust your daily usage and we'll recommend the right Thailand eSIM plan for your trip.
Daily data usage estimator
Tap +/− to set your typical daily usage per activity
Maps & navigation
1
hrs · 30 MB/hr
Instagram & social media
1
hrs · 90 MB/hr
Video streaming / YouTube
0
hrs · 300 MB/hr
Video calls (WhatsApp / FaceTime)
0
hrs · 200 MB/hr
General browsing & messaging
1
hrs · 20 MB/hr
150 MB
estimated per day
Recommended: 7-Day Unlimited plan — no counting, no stress
Destinations
Thailand cities covered by ZetSIM
From Bangkok's BTS-connected megacity to Phuket's offshore islands — your eSIM works everywhere Thailand's 4G/5G networks reach.
Excellent 5G coverage
Bangkok (กรุงเทพ)
Thailand's capital packs night markets, rooftop bars, ornate temples, and the chaotic brilliance of Khao San Road into one city. 5G is live across central Bangkok and the BTS/MRT corridors.
Strong 4G island-wide
Phuket
Thailand's largest island draws beach lovers to Patong, surfers to Kata, and wellness seekers north. AIS and DTAC both run strong 4G island-wide — even on Phang Nga Bay boat tours.
Good 4G city-wide
Chiang Mai
The cultural heart of northern Thailand — ancient wats, elephant sanctuaries, trekking routes, and the best coffee scene in Southeast Asia. AIS has the best mountain coverage.
4G on main islands
Koh Samui & Koh Tao
The Gulf islands — most backpackers end up here a week longer than planned. Koh Samui has reliable 4G; Koh Tao has good signal in town with some dead zones at remote dive sites.
Good 4G downtown
Krabi & Railay Beach
Limestone karsts, emerald lagoons, and Railay Beach — accessible only by longtail. Krabi Town has solid 4G. Perfect for posting that boat photo before you've even docked.
Strong 4G city-wide
Pattaya
Two hours from Bangkok, Pattaya is reinventing itself with art parks, floating markets, and waterparks. Excellent 4G coverage across the entire city with 5G in central areas.
Must-See Attractions
Top places to visit — and why you need data there
From ancient temples to floating markets — here's where travellers spend most of their data and why it's worth every MB.
Bangkok
Grand Palace & Wat Phra Kaew
Thailand's most iconic landmark. You'll want Maps to navigate the grounds and data to book tickets via the official app. Pre-booking is essential.
Excellent city coverage
Phuket
Phang Nga Bay (James Bond Island)
Dramatic limestone karsts rising from turquoise water. Book tours via Klook before you go. Signal is intermittent mid-bay but solid from the dock.
Good at dock, patchy at sea
Chiang Mai
Elephant Nature Park
The most reputable elephant sanctuary — book well in advance, they sell out. Located 60km outside Chiang Mai so download offline maps. 4G available in the sanctuary.
Good 4G at sanctuary
Bangkok
Damnoen Saduak Floating Market
Rows of wooden boats loaded with tropical fruit and street food. Go before 9am to beat tour groups. Book a Grab with your eSIM data on the way.
Solid 4G throughout
Koh Tao
Scuba Diving & Snorkelling
One of the cheapest places in the world to get PADI certified. Book your dive school on the main beach strip. Good signal in Mae Haad and Sairee Beach.
Good in main beach areas
Chiang Rai
White Temple (Wat Rong Khun)
Thailand's most surreal building — all-white Buddhist temple covered in mirror tiles. 13km from Chiang Rai. Solid 4G throughout the grounds for sharing that shot.
Good 4G at temple
Breaking — June 2026
Thailand visa rules: what just changed
Not yet in force (as of 23 June 2026): The Thai Cabinet approved major visa changes on 19 May 2026 but they only take effect 15 days after Royal Gazette publication — which hasn't happened yet. The current 60-day visa-free entry is still valid at borders today. However, the change could kick in any day. Plan for 30 days, and consider a tourist visa if you need longer.
USA, UK, EU, Australia, Canada, Japan
Currently eligible for 60-day visa-free entry (still active). Once Royal Gazette publishes, this reverts to 30 days. A one-time 30-day extension is available at any immigration office. These nationalities remain visa-free — just shorter.
India — Most Affected
Indian nationals had 60-day exemption reinstated in Feb 2026. Post-gazette, India reverts to Visa on Arrival (15 days, ฿2,000 fee). Staying beyond 15 days? Apply for a tourist visa through thaievisa.go.th before departure.
Digital Nomad? Get the DTV
The Destination Thailand Visa (DTV) is the cleanest long-stay option for remote workers. 5-year validity, up to 180 days per stay, extendable once. Requires ฿500,000 in funds. Apply through a Thai embassy.
TDAC — Mandatory for Everyone
The Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) replaces the old paper TM.6. Every foreign national must complete it within 72 hours of flying. Free at tdac.immigration.go.th. Skipping it adds 30–60 minutes at the airport.
Entry checklist before you fly
1
Check passport validity (6 months min from entry date)
Airlines enforce this at check-in — if your passport expires within 6 months, you will not be allowed to board.
2
Complete your TDAC within 72 hrs of flying
Free at tdac.immigration.go.th. Name must exactly match your passport MRZ line. Common error: wrong date format (DD/MM vs MM/DD).
3
Prepare proof of funds & onward travel
฿10,000 per person. Checks are random at airports. Carry a printed return ticket itinerary just in case.
4
Install your ZetSIM eSIM before flying
Having data from the moment you land makes arriving infinitely less stressful — grab a Grab, check your TDAC QR, message home, all before the passport control queue.
Money & Currency
Thai Baht — live rates & money tips
The Thai Baht (฿ / THB) is stable and accepted everywhere. Live approximate rates as of June 2026.
INR → THB
฿2.88
per ₹1 · Jun 2026
USD → THB
฿33.8
per $1 · Jun 2026
GBP → THB
฿45.2
per £1 · Jun 2026
SGD → THB
฿25.1
per S$1 · Jun 2026
ATMs — withdraw max amount
Thai ATMs charge a flat ฿220 fee per transaction regardless of amount. Always withdraw the maximum (฿20,000–30,000). Kasikorn Bank and Bangkok Bank give the best rates.
Cards — always pay in THB
When a terminal asks "pay in THB or your home currency?" — always choose THB. Dynamic Currency Conversion costs 3–6% extra. No exceptions.
Cash exchange — avoid airports
Airport counters charge 5–8% over market rate. Superrich (orange/green) exchange shops in Bangkok give near-interbank rates. Best branches near BTS Asok and Central World.
Digital payments — Grab & QR
Thailand's PromptPay QR system is everywhere. Grab rideshare works seamlessly with a ZetSIM eSIM number. Set up Grab Pay before arriving for cashless rides from landing.
Roaming vs eSIM
Is your home carrier roaming in Thailand worth it?
Singtel, Maxis, Jio, Starhub, TPG, AIS — here's how roaming packs compare to buying a local Thailand eSIM.
| Home carrier | 7-day roaming pack (approx) | Data included | Speed cap | ZetSIM Thailand eSIM |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Singtel (Singapore) | ~S$25–40 | 5–15 GB | 4G, throttled after limit | Unlimited · From ₹599 (~S$10) |
| Maxis (Malaysia) | ~RM30–60 | 5–10 GB | 4G | Unlimited · From ₹599 (~RM9) |
| Jio (India) | ~₹2,199 pack | 6 GB | 4G | Unlimited · From ₹599 |
| Starhub (Singapore) | ~S$30–45 | Unlimited (capped speed) | Throttled at 1 Mbps | Full speed 4G/5G unlimited |
| TPG (Singapore/AU) | ~S$15–30 | 3–8 GB | 4G | No speed cap on top plans |
| U Mobile (Malaysia) | ~RM38–68 | 5 GB | 4G | Keep home SIM active via dual-SIM |
| Vodafone (UK) | ~£10–25 | 5–15 GB | 4G | Full unlimited from ₹599 (~£7) |
Roaming prices are approximate and change frequently. Check your carrier's website for exact current rates.
Customer Reviews
What travellers say about ZetSIM in Thailand
Real reviews from travellers who used ZetSIM in Bangkok, Phuket, Chiang Mai, and the islands.
PV
Priya Verma
India
Landed at Suvarnabhumi at midnight and had data before I even got to passport control. Maps, Grab, WhatsApp — all working while everyone else was hunting for a SIM counter.
7-Day Unlimited
AN
Arjun Nair
UAE
Used the 30-day plan across Bangkok, Chiang Mai, Phuket, and Koh Samui. Coverage was solid everywhere except a remote jungle trek. Speed was fast enough for daily video calls.
30-Day Unlimited
EW
Emma Wilson
United Kingdom
Cheaper than Vodafone roaming and honestly faster too. Slight 4G dip on Koh Tao's west coast but expected that. Already bought one for Bali next month.
15-Day Unlimited
FAQ
Common questions about Thailand eSIM
Is ZetSIM Thailand eSIM compatible with my iPhone?
ZetSIM eSIM works on iPhone XS and later (XS, XR, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16 series). Your iPhone must be carrier-unlocked. Go to Settings → General → About — look for "No SIM Restrictions" under Carrier Lock. Most unlocked iPhones support up to 8 stored eSIMs.
Which is better — AIS, DTAC, or True Move for Thailand?
AIS has the best overall coverage — particularly in rural areas, national parks, and northern Thailand. DTAC is strongest in Bangkok and coastal resorts. True Move H has improving 5G in Bangkok but weaker island coverage. ZetSIM routes your connection to the optimal network automatically.
Can I use one Thailand eSIM in both Bangkok and Phuket?
Yes — a single ZetSIM Thailand eSIM covers the entire country. Bangkok, Phuket, Chiang Mai, Pattaya, Krabi, Koh Samui, Koh Tao, Chiang Rai — one plan, everywhere. No separate eSIMs needed per city or island.
How does ZetSIM compare to Airalo or Holafly for Thailand?
ZetSIM competes directly with Airalo, Holafly, Nomad, and Klook. Key differences: ZetSIM offers 25% off (code ZETSIM25) and 50% with ZETPASS membership, earns 5% ZetCoins cashback, and includes airport lounge access, Fast Track, and Greeter services through the ZetSIM super-app. Pricing is comparable to Airalo Thailand, often cheaper after discount codes.
When does my 30-day Thailand eSIM validity start?
Your validity starts when you toggle the eSIM on — not when you purchase it. Install it before your trip and activate only when you land in Thailand. No validity days are wasted during your journey.
Does ZetSIM Thailand eSIM work for travellers from Singapore or Malaysia?
Yes. ZetSIM Thailand is a local Thai data eSIM — far better than Singtel, Maxis, TPG, or Starhub roaming packs. You get local network speeds at a fraction of the cost. Simply activate ZetSIM when you land and turn off your home carrier's data roaming. Your home number stays active on the same phone via dual-SIM.
Get Connected
Pick your Thailand
eSIM plan & buy now
eSIM plan & buy now
Choose unlimited or fixed data, pick your trip length, apply your discount code, and check out in under 2 minutes. Your QR code arrives by email instantly.
Instant QR code via email
Activate on arrival — validity starts then
Keep your home SIM active (dual-SIM)
25% OFF with ZETSIM25 · 50% OFF with ZETPASS
5% back in ZetCoins on every purchase
AIS · DTAC · True Move 4G/5G networks
Detecting currency…
Loading plans…
No plans found for this product.
Data
—
Validity
Popular
—
Voice Minutes
—
SMS
—
Apply Offers
ZETPASS Benefits
Get 50% off every eSIM purchase during your pass validity.
$3 / 1 Month
$9 / 6 Months
$12 / 12 Months
Buy ZETPASS Now
$9 / 6 Months
$12 / 12 Months
5% BACK IN ZETCOINS
FUP Policy