Which eSIM should you choose for a trip to Thailand?

Thailand, a dream destination known for its beaches, culture, and tropical atmosphere, attracts hundreds of thousands of travelers every year. In 2025, staying connected during a trip to Thailand has become almost essential: to check your itineraries, book excursions, share your photos in real time, or stay in touch with your loved ones. However, using roaming from your French operator can quickly become expensive. The eSIM option therefore appears as the ideal solution, combining easy activation with reduced cost. This guide aims to help you choose **the best eSIM for Thailand**, taking your needs, length of stay, budget and device compatibility into account. <BlogPromoHighlight /> ## Understanding the eSIM: the technology that simplifies your travels The eSIM (embedded SIM) is a digital profile installed directly on your smartphone without needing to insert a physical card. In Thailand, several eSIM providers offer plans specifically designed for travelers, making mobile internet access simple as soon as you arrive. ### Why choose an eSIM over a physical SIM or roaming? - Fast activation: scan a QR code or install via an app. - No risk of losing or damaging a physical SIM card. - You can keep your French number active while using a local data plan. - Much lower costs than international roaming. ## What are the advantages for a trip to Thailand? - Connection upon arrival: you can be online as soon as you land. - Wide usage: maps, apps, social networks, bookings, translation. - Better coverage than relying solely on public WiFi. - Flexibility depending on your usage: from light plans to unlimited data. ## Important criteria for choosing your Thailand eSIM | Criterion | Impact for you | What to check | | ----------------------- | ----------------------------------------------- | --------------------------------------------- | | Network coverage | reliable connection everywhere, even on islands | supported operators (e.g. AIS, DTAC) | | Data volume | avoid slowdowns or cutoffs | choose based on usage (navigation, streaming) | | Plan validity | no “lost” days | must match the duration of your stay | | Activation & simplicity | avoid troubles on arrival | QR code, simple app, customer support | | Price & value | optimize travel budget | compare prices, data and validity | ## Recommended providers & types of offers for Thailand Based on recent comparisons: - “Unlimited” plans for 10–30 days from certain providers. - Budget offers of a few gigabytes for shorter stays or light use. - Typical example: 50 GB for 10 days or an unlimited 15-day plan at competitive prices. ## How to install it before your trip 1. Check that your smartphone is eSIM-compatible (recent iPhone, Samsung, etc.). 2. Purchase your eSIM from France and receive the QR code. 3. Install the eSIM profile on your smartphone (before or just after arrival). 4. When arriving, activate the eSIM as your data line and keep your French SIM for calls/SMS if needed. 5. Make sure the data line used is the eSIM to avoid unexpected roaming charges. ## How much data should you plan? - Light use (emails, WhatsApp, navigation): 1–5 GB is enough. - Regular use (social networks, GPS, light streaming): 10–20 GB. - Heavy use (video, hotspot): choose an unlimited plan or 30 GB+. ## Quick FAQ **Can I buy an eSIM after arriving in Thailand?** Yes, but purchasing from France usually gives better conditions (price, activation) and avoids stress on arrival. **Can I keep my French number active?** Yes, most travel eSIMs are data-only. Your French number remains active for calls/SMS unless you disable it. **Are calls/SMS included?** Often not: many plans are data-only. Check provider options if you need a local number or calls. **When should I buy my eSIM?** Before departure is recommended so everything is ready as soon as you land. ## In summary For your trip to Thailand, an eSIM is an excellent option: simple, quick to activate and much more economical than traditional roaming. Choose a plan adapted to your stay and your usage. Before leaving, confirm your phone’s compatibility, install the eSIM, and activate it upon arrival. Enjoy your connection… and your trip! 🌴