Mobile Plans and Internet Options for Expats in Bangkok

Staying connected is essential for expats living in Bangkok, whether for work, socializing, or navigating the city. Fortunately, Thailand offers a variety of mobile plans and internet options to suit different needs and budgets. This guide will help you understand the best mobile providers, SIM card options, and home internet services available in Bangkok.

1. Mobile Providers in Thailand

The three major mobile network providers in Thailand are:

AIS

• Best for coverage and reliability
• Offers both prepaid and postpaid plans
• 5G available in major areas
• Affordable data packages for short- and long-term users

TrueMove H

• Competitive pricing with good network coverage
• Attractive prepaid tourist SIM cards with high-speed data
• 5G available in Bangkok and other major cities
• Good international roaming options

DTAC

• Budget-friendly plans
• Decent coverage, though slightly weaker in rural areas
• Various data packages suitable for expats
• Flexible prepaid and postpaid plans

2. Best SIM Card Options for Expats

Expats can choose between prepaid and postpaid SIM cards based on their needs.

Prepaid SIM Cards

• Available at 7-Eleven, Family Mart, airports, and mobile stores
• No long-term contract required
• Ideal for short-term visitors or those who don't want to commit to a monthly plan
• Popular prepaid plans:
  • AIS 10GB for 30 days (~THB 300)
  • TrueMove H Unlimited Data for 30 days (~THB 600)
  • DTAC 20GB for 30 days (~THB 350)

Postpaid Plans

• Requires a passport and sometimes proof of residency
• Monthly contracts with better rates and more data
• Recommended plans:
  • AIS 50GB + unlimited calls (~THB 699/month)
  • TrueMove H 5G unlimited (~THB 999/month)
  • DTAC 40GB (~THB 499/month)

3. Home Internet Options

Expats staying long-term may want to set up home internet for a stable and fast connection.

AIS Fibre

• High-speed fiber internet with good coverage
• Packages start from THB 399/month for 500Mbps
• Bundled deals with mobile plans available

True Online

• Offers speeds up to 1Gbps
• Home + mobile bundle plans available
• Competitive pricing (THB 599/month for 500Mbps)

3BB Internet

• Affordable and high-speed broadband
• Best for standalone home internet
• Prices start from THB 450/month for 500Mbps

4. Pocket WiFi & eSIM Options

For those who frequently travel or don’t want a local SIM, there are alternatives:

Pocket WiFi

• Rentable devices from AIS, TrueMove, or DTAC
• Prices start at ~THB 100/day
• Useful for travelers who need internet on multiple devices

eSIM for Expats

• Digital SIM cards available from AIS, TrueMove, and global providers
• No need for a physical SIM card swap
• Best for those who frequently travel between countries

5. Tips for Choosing the Right Plan

• For heavy data users: Get an unlimited postpaid plan (AIS or TrueMove H)
• For budget-conscious expats: DTAC prepaid plans offer great value
• For long-term stays: Home fiber internet plans from AIS or TrueMove are recommended
• For short-term visitors: Prepaid tourist SIMs from TrueMove H or AIS provide convenient data options

Final Thoughts

Bangkok offers a variety of mobile and internet options for expats, ensuring you stay connected wherever you go. Whether you need a short-term prepaid SIM, a long-term mobile plan, or home broadband, there’s a solution to match your lifestyle and budget. Choose wisely based on your data usage, coverage needs, and contract preferences to get the best value for your money.