$30 hi tourist sim card

Best Singapore SIM Card for Tourists

Marianne Rogerson

August 4, 2023

Here we take a look at finding the best Singapore SIM card for tourists . We discuss what to look for when choosing a SIM and compare the top contenders. 

Whether you are looking to share your photos of your Singapore trip on Instagram or navigate the city efficiently, the right SIM card can be your ultimate travelling companion. A tourist SIM card enables you to access mobile data, make calls, and send messages during your stay in Singapore.

Singapore offers a variety of prepaid SIM card options for tourists , making it easy and hassle-free to stay connected during your trip. However, finding the best option can be confusing, considering the myriad of mobile networks and data packages available for tourists. 

What’s most important to you? The amount of data? Unlimited calls? Or just the cheapest option? 

Our comprehensive guide to prepaid SIM card packages and comparisons between local operators will help you make an informed choice about the best prepaid SIM card in Singapore. We also offer tips on how to top up your card and monitor your data usage. 

You may also like these articles:

• How to use public transport in Singapore
• What to pack for Singapore
• How to get from Singapore airport to the city
• 60+ Best things to do in Singapore

Disclaimer: This article contains affiliate links. If you make a booking using these links, we may receive a small commission, at no extra cost to you.

Got questions? Come join our Singapore Travel Tips Facebook group . It’s the perfect place to ask questions and get inspiration for your trip!

Table of Contents

No time to read the whole article? Here are our top picks.

• Best SIM card for short stays: Starhub $12 Tourist Travel SIM : 10-day validity with 100GB data, 100 local SMS, 1,000 minutes local calls, 30 minutes international calls, 1GB data roaming in 17 destinations.
• Best SIM for longer stays : Singtel $30 hi!Tourist SIM Card : 28-day validity with 100GB local 5G data, unlimited local SMS, unlimited local calls, 90 minutes international calls and 5GB data roaming for Australia, Indonesia, Malaysia and Thailand.
• Best SIM for roaming : The Starhub Tourist Travel SIM is available for $12 (10 days) or $32 (30 days) and offers data roaming in 17 countries. 
• Best eSIM : M1 $12 Tourist eSIM : 15-day validity with 100GB data, 100 local SMS, 500 minutes local calls, 20 minutes international calls.
• Best tourist EZ-Link SIM card : Singtel $15 hi!Tourist 2-in-1 EZ-Link SIM Card : 28-day validity. 100GB local 4G data, 100 local SMS, 500 minutes local calls, 30 minutes international calls, 3G data roaming. Also acts as an EZ-Link card with $3 stored value for use on public transport. 

What to Consider when Choosing a Travel SIM card

Each of the leading Singapore telcos offers a variety of prepaid sim cards that cater specifically to tourists. These SIM cards include data, text messages and local and international call minutes. 

Some also offer international roaming in certain neighbouring countries, which can be useful if you are heading on elsewhere after Singapore. 

When comparing SIM cards, consider the following factors:

• Data allowance : Make sure the plan provides enough data for your needs . Consider what you will use it for – some social media apps such as Instagram and YouTube can eat through a lot of data quickly. Opting for a package with a large data bundle will help avoid inconvenient mid-trip top-ups.
• Coverage : Ensure the SIM card offers strong coverage in the areas you plan to visit. The major Singapore SIM card providers generally offer good coverage, but it’s always wise to double-check. 
• Roaming options : Some Singapore SIMs offer international roaming , which is handy if you plan to head elsewhere after Singapore. Or you want to use up unused data when you get home. Different providers offer different options with regard to the different countries available and the quantity of data allowance. 
• Validity period : Choose a SIM with a suitable expiry date to match your trip length. Keep in mind that some tourist SIM cards have shorter validity periods.
• Price : Compare the costs of different SIM cards to find one that fits your budget . Be sure not to sacrifice essential features for the sake of saving a few dollars.

Who are Singapore’s Leading Mobile Operators?

Singapore has three leading mobile internet providers: These are 

All of these telcos offer great options for tourist SIM cards in Singapore. 

Singapore’s mobile network landscape is advanced, with most providers offering impressive 4G speeds and an expanding 5G network. So, you’ll have a seamless mobile internet experience during your visit. 

Bear in mind that the available frequencies in Singapore for mobile communication are 900MHz, 1800MHz, and 2100MHz, which means your phone should be compatible with these to take full advantage of the mobile internet services provided by Singaporean operators.

Comparing Sim Card Providers

Let’s take a closer look at these leading Sim Card providers and their products available for tourists in Singapore.

Singtel offers a range of hi!Tourist SIM cards specifically designed for tourists. Details of the different cards are below. Click here to buy these SIM cards at a discounted rate .

• $12 hi!Tourist SIM Card : Valid 14 days. Offers 100GB local 4G data, 100 local SMS, 500 minutes local calls, 30 minutes international calls, plus 3G data roaming for Australia, Indonesia, Malaysia and Thailand.
• $15 hi!Tourist 2-in-1 EZ-Link SIM Card : Valid 28 days. This card gives you all of the data and calls as above, but also acts as an EZ-Link card for public transport and includes $3 stored value for use on public transport (this saves you $5 on purchasing an EZ-Link card). 
• $30 hi!Tourist SIM Card : Valid 28 days. Offers 100GB local 5G data, unlimited local SMS, unlimited local calls, 90 minutes international calls and 5GB data roaming for Australia, Indonesia, Malaysia and Thailand.
• $50 hi!Tourist SIM Card : Valid 28 days. Offers 120GB local 5G data, unlimited local SMS, unlimited local calls, 90 minutes international calls and 10GB data roaming for Australia, Indonesia, Malaysia and Thailand.

Note : With the Singtel tourist SIM card, access to Facebook, LINE, WeChat and WhatsApp is unlimited (subject to 1GB per day fair usage) and does not count towards your local data allowance. 

Starhub also has a selection of prepaid plans for tourists as well. Let’s take a look at the StarHub Prepaid SIM card options. Click here to buy these SIM cards at a discounted rate .

• $12 Tourist Travel SIM : Valid 10 days. Offers 100GB local 4G data, 100 local SMS, 1,000 minutes local calls, 30 minutes international calls, 1GB data roaming in 17 destinations. 
• $32 Tourist Travel SIM : Valid 30 days. Offers 100GB local 4G data, 5,000 local SMS, 3,000 minutes local calls, 90 minutes international calls, 3GB data roaming in 17 destinations.

Note : With Starhub SIM cards, data roaming is available in the following 17 destinations: Australia, Canada, China, Hong Kong, India, Indonesia, Japan, Macau, Malaysia, Myanmar, New Zealand, Philippines, South Korea, Taiwan, Thailand, United Kingdom, United States of America.

M1 offers the following tourist SIM cards. Click here to buy these SIM cards at a discounted rate .

• $12 Tourist SIM: Valid 15 days. Offers 100GB local 4G data, 100 local SMS, 500 minutes local calls, 20 minutes international calls. No data roaming. This option is also available as an eSIM card.
• $30 Tourist SIM : Valid 30 days. Offers 150GB local 4G data, 1,000 local SMS, 3,000 minutes local calls, 50 minutes international calls, 3GB data roaming in Malaysia, Indonesia, Hong Kong, Macau and Taiwan.

About eSIM 

Another trend to watch for is eSIMs. As eSIM technology grows in popularity, more devices and plans now support it, providing another way to access data without needing a physical SIM card .

Instead of using a traditional SIM card, eSIM allows you to activate your eSIM data plan via email and use it immediately. This is a convenient option as it lets you switch between carriers seamlessly without needing to swap out a physical SIM card. 

However, it is worth noting that a physical SIM card that you insert into your device often offers better data allowances and lower costs. 

Also check that the eSIM offers local and/or international calls if this is important to you, as they are often data only. You also need to ensure your mobile device is eSIM compatible.

In summary:

• eSIMs allow you to activate your data plan via email 
• You don’t need a physical SIM card
• Physical SIM cards often offer better value packages that eSIMs
• Some travel eSIMs are data only, without call allowances
• You need to ensure your mobile device is eSIM compatible

Recommended eSIM 

• M1 $12 Tourist eSIM : Valid 15 days. Offers 100GB local 4G data, 100 local SMS, 500 minutes local calls, 20 minutes international calls. No data roaming.

Where to Buy a SIM Card in Singapore

You can easily find SIM cards at the airport, various convenience stores like 7-Eleven, and in shopping malls around the city. 

We recommend buying one online, and then you can collect it upon arrival at Changi Airport. 

Required Documents to Buy a SIM Card

To buy a SIM card as a tourist, you’ll need to present your passport  as proof of your identity. It’s a mandatory requirement for purchasing a SIM card in Singapore. 

Your passport helps the retailer verify your identity and ensures that only genuine tourists access the tourist SIM card options.

How Do Singapore SIM Cards Work?

When you purchase a Singapore prepaid SIM card, the first thing you need to do is activate it by inserting the card into your phone. This process is straightforward; just follow the instructions provided in the sim card packet, or ask the store staff for assistance. 

Once you’ve done this, you can immediately start using the preloaded credit to make calls, send texts, and use mobile data.

Important tip : Make sure that your smartphone is  unlocked  for you to use the available local SIM cards in Singapore. Locked phones are restricted to one network provider, making it impossible to switch to other carriers while in the country. 

If your smartphone is locked, contact your carrier to unlock it before heading to Singapore. 

How to Top-Up Your SIM Card

Once you have your SIM card, topping up your credit is a breeze. You can find top-up cards of various denominations at 7-Eleven stores, the service provider’s stores, and even newsstands. 

These cards usually have a hidden number and PIN, which can be revealed by scratching off the protective coating.

To top-up your SIM, follow the instructions provided on the top-up card. These instructions include straightforward steps to input the card number and PIN.

In addition to physical top-up cards, you can also use online top-up services or apps provided by SIM card providers. Online top-ups often make it easy to track your balance and monitor your usage throughout your stay in Singapore. 

To do this, simply visit your provider’s website, create an account or log in, and follow the guided prompts to add your desired top-up amount.

Apps for SIM Management

When you get a tourist SIM card in Singapore, you can also download apps for managing your SIM. 

These apps make it easier for you: 

• Check your account balance
• View remaining data, talk time and SMS
• Top-up or purchase data bundles easily

For example, if you choose the M1 Prepaid Tourist SIM, you can download the  M1 Prepaid App from the Google Play or Apple App Store. 

Likewise, if you opt for a Singtel Prepaid SIM card, you can manage your account with the  Singtel Prepaid hi!App and Starhub has the Starhub Prepaid App.

Prepaid vs Postpaid SIM cards 

Prepaid SIM cards  are a popular choice for tourists because they offer flexibility and convenience. With a prepaid SIM card, you have complete control over your expenditure, as you only pay for what you use in advance. 

Additionally, you can easily top up your account when needed. This option eliminates the worry of unexpected charges and can conveniently be purchased upon your arrival in Singapore. 

On the other hand,  postpaid SIM cards  are usually more suitable for longer stays or for residents. With a postpaid plan, you receive a monthly bill for the services you have used, and these plans often come with contract commitments. This option may be advantageous in terms of more cost-effective data and voice packages, but it also comes with the responsibility of managing and paying monthly bills.

In general, tourists tend to prefer  prepaid SIM cards  as they provide simplicity and freedom from contracts. They allow you to stay connected without being tied down to monthly fees, and it is easy to find  prepaid plans  offering attractive call, data, and messaging packages.

Is Pocket Wi-Fi a good option for Singapore?

While Singapore offers numerous SIM cards for tourists, you might be interested in additional options like a pocket Wi-Fi. 

A pocket Wi-Fi is a portable device allowing you to stay connected to the internet without using a local SIM card . They are especially useful when travelling with a group or as a family, as multiple devices can connect to the same pocket Wi-Fi, without purchasing multiple plans.

However, they don’t allow you to make local or international calls. 

For a Pocket WiFi, you usually pre-pay online and it will be delivered to your accommodation. You will need to post it back at the end of your trip. 

Click here to read more about Pocket WiFis and order one online. 

Useful Apps for Singapore

Once you’ve chosen your SIM card, it’s time to download some useful apps for navigating Singapore . Just remember to track your data usage to avoid running out!

The city has an excellent public transport system, and using apps like MyTransport.SG or CityMapper can make getting around much more manageable. 

Other navigation apps worth downloading are Grab and Gojek , which provide taxi and ride-hailing services similar to Uber. 

Singapore is also known for its diverse food scene. Use apps like Chope or Burpple to locate restaurants and cafes in your vicinity. They offer reviews, ratings, and even discounts for specific eateries, helping you choose the perfect spot for your taste buds.

Click here for more useful apps for Singapore . 

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At a glance

Best overall, best for short stays, best budget, best non-mvno, best prepaid data plan, best data-only plan.

At a glance 1. Best overall 2. Best for short stays 3. Best budget 4. Best non-MVNO 5. Best prepaid data plan 6. Best data-only plan FAQ

Whether you're going on a quick vacation or moving for good, it's never a bad idea to invest in one of the best prepaid SIM cards so you can stay in touch with friends and family back home. If you're having trouble choosing among all of the options that are out there, fear not: we've gathered all of the best prepaid SIM cards for travelers so you don't have to worry. 

As long as your Android phone is unlocked for international use and compatible with local networks, such as T-Mobile, Verizon, and AT&T, ordering a SIM card online or through a nearby retailer should be simple. 

Keep reading for all of the best prepaid SIM cards for U.S. travelers and tourists alike. If you want to go even deeper, you can also check out our guide to the best MVNO carriers or save some cash with the best MVNO deals of the month. 

From $15 at Mint Mobile

Soon to be owned by T-Mobile, a Mint Mobile SIM is a perfect choice if you're staying in the U.S. for three months or longer, with unlimited talk/text, a mobile hotspot, and more. 

Read more below.

From $19 at Ultra Mobile

The Ultra Mobile 3GB plan gives you a month of unlimited talk and text to over 90 countries worldwide on T-Mobile, up to 3GB of 5G/4G LTE data, and free Wi-Fi calling.

Read more below.  

From $15 at Lycamobile

If the ability to call abroad is your main focus, all Lycamobile plans come with unlimited talk and text to over 85 countries and a variety of data options.

From $30 at AT&T

Best non-MVNO 

Choose AT&T Prepaid's 5GB plan for $30 per month and you'll get unlimited talk, text, and 5GB of data with 5G access and the ability to text over 230 countries for free.

From $40 at T-Mobile

T-Mobile's prepaid plan is a little pricey, but you get 10GB of data, a free mobile hotspot, and access to the world's largest 5G network. 

From $35 at Cricket Wireless

If you only need data on your travels, Cricket's data-only plan offers a minimum of 20GB of high-speed data, as well as usage in Mexico and Canada. 

1. Mint Mobile

Our expert review:

Reasons to buy

Reasons to avoid.

Mint Mobile is one of the best MVNO carriers today and uses T-Mobile's 4G LTE and 5G network, making it a great prepaid SIM card to get if you plan on staying in the U.S. for at least three months. As we found in our Mint Mobile review , Mint's 5G connection is strong, and its phone compatibility is one of the best in the country.

With Mint, you need to purchase at least three months of service upfront. After that, the best deals are offered when you sign up for six months or 12. For three months on the unlimited plan, you'll pay $90 and get unlimited talk, text, and data, 10GB of mobile hotspot, and free calls to Mexico and Canada. Calling to other international locations is available at a per-minute rate but if you use an app to call your friends such as WhatsApp or Line, you'll only need data.

Joining Mint Mobile is easy, and you can even sign up for a trial online to get a free Mint Mobile SIM card . It's especially easy if your phone is eligible for an eSIM since you can then activate the SIM straight from your phone and later continue your service if you like it. You can also get a Mint SIM card from Target, Best Buy, Walmart, or Amazon.

2. Ultra Mobile 3GB

Ultra Mobile is an MVNO on T-Mobile's network, meaning that you'll get great T-Mobile coverage at a lower price. Our Ultra Mobile review showed strong coverage and speeds. Though Ultra Mobile offers its own set of prepaid plans, the Ultra Mobile 3GB plan is a perfect fit for anyone visiting the U.S. for a month or less.

This is a more traditional SIM and after 30 days, the plan will expire, making it great for users who just wanted simple talk and text to a wide range of destinations and don't need a lot of data on their travels. For $19 with the SIM kit included, you'll get unlimited talk and text to over 90 countries worldwide, plus free Wi-Fi calling and up to 4GB of 5G/LTE data, meaning you should have no issue reaching friends and family back home.

3. Lycamobile

Lycamobile is unique because it's a global MVNO, and in the U.S., it's an MVNO on T-Mobile's network. To check whether your phone is compatible, the easiest thing to do is type in your IMEI number on Lycamobile's website, but most GSM unlocked devices should work.

Lycamobile offers several plans to pick from and really caters to those who need unlimited nationwide talk and text and international calling and texting to 85+ countries. Each plan includes these features at no additional charge, making this the perfect plan if you're someone who wants to be able to call abroad whenever you want.

When it comes to data, you have multiple options starting at just 250MB and going up to 60GB. The cheapest 250MB plan costs $15, while the top unlimited data plan costs $59. The 2GB plan is only available to new customers so if you're already signed up, this plan will come with 1GB of data. Each plan includes slightly different bonus features, so you'll have to pick what makes the most sense for you.

Fortunately, Lycamobile SIM cards are pretty easy to get a hold of. They're sold online on Lycamobile's website and Amazon, but you'll also find Lycamobile SIM cards in several retailers, including 7-Eleven, pharmacies, local convenience stores, etc. When in doubt, you can also use the online store locator to find the nearest retailer near you.

4. AT&T Prepaid

Known for its great coverage, AT&T is also an excellent carrier to consider getting a SIM card from when visiting the U.S. and one of the best prepaid phone plans . It tends to have better coverage in rural areas than other carriers, so it's also a great option if you plan to be on the road a lot. For $30 (plus taxes and fees), AT&T Prepaid will get you 5GB of high-speed data, which is then throttled to 128Kbps. As always, you should check your device's compatibility with AT&T online before signing up.

On this plan, you're able to use your mobile hotspot, and you can text to more than 230 countries. You'll also be able to talk, text, and use data in Mexico and Canada (though data speeds may be slow). And if you think you'll need more than 5GB of data, you can always upgrade to a 15GB prepaid plan for $40, which is a great deal and definitely worth considering.

5. T-Mobile Prepaid

T-Mobile not only offers some of the best cell phone plans you could get today, but it also has an excellent prepaid option that will suit most travelers and tourists needs when visiting the U.S. Because T-Mobile's network has improved vastly over the past few years and its 5G network has some of the most expansive coverage and fastest speeds in the nation, you'll likely get excellent service with T-Mobile when traveling to major cities during your stay.

There are four T-Mobile prepaid plans from which to choose, though the ideal plan for most visitors will be T-Mobile's 10GB prepaid plan for $40 per month. This plan includes unlimited domestic talk and text, up to 10GB of high-speed data, free mobile hotspot data, and a music unlimited feature so that any music you stream won't eat up your data. If you want to add international calling, you can do so for $15 extra, or if you're traveling to Mexico or Canada for a few days, you can add talk, text, and 5GB of data to use over there for an extra $5.

6. Cricket Wireless

If you don't think you'll need minutes during your stay in the U.S. and really just want data, you could consider a data-only plan from Cricket Wireless , which is an MVNO on AT&T's network. For $35, you'll get 20GB to use during the month, or for $55, you'll get 100GB.

Again, this plan doesn't come with any minutes, so you'll have to be sure you're fine using apps like WhatsApp, Facebook Messenger, or Skype to connect with family or friends. It does come with text and picture messages across the U.S., as well as usage in Mexico and Canada if you plan on visiting those countries as well. It's the perfect plan for anyone who will be spending lots of time on the road and wants to be able to stream, download, and do some high-speed browsing.

You can get a Cricket SIM card by going into a Cricket Wireless authorized retailer, which you can locate with Cricket's online store locator. Other popular retailers such as Amazon, Target, Best Buy, and Walmart will also sell Universal SIM card activation kits for Cricket Wireless. The good news is that if you do end up wanting minutes, you can always switch to another one of Cricket's plans with the same SIM card.

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Which prepaid SIM card is best for you?

Why you can trust Android Central Our expert reviewers spend hours testing and comparing products and services so you can choose the best for you. Find out more about how we test .

You really can't go wrong with a prepaid SIM card on T-Mobile or AT&T's network while visiting the U.S., and the right fit for you depends on the length of your stay and whether you need features like being able to call back home. If you're traveling for only three weeks or less, the Ultra Mobile 3GB plan is the best choice and offers just enough talk, text, and data to stay connected.

On the other hand, if you'll be in the U.S. for a few months, Mint Mobile will give you the best multiple-month value. And if you're somewhere in between, a prepaid plan from either T-Mobile or AT&T is easy, reliable, and guaranteed to give you great coverage.

Should you use your current carrier's add-ons?

Many carriers have partnerships with international carriers to offer greater service to their own customers. Luckily, this often goes both directions and means there may be a plan add-on that can give you plenty of data without needing to set up and activate a new SIM. While these travel add-ons can be quite pricey, the simplicity of this option will make it worth it to many people. It also gives you the chance to have a connection if you're waiting for a connecting flight in another country.

What about eSIM apps?

Another emerging option is eSIM apps. These apps can use your phone's built-in eSIM slot to quickly activate and pay for a phone plan without needing to remove your old SIM or worry about shipping a physical SIM in the first place. Airalo , for example, allows customers to buy as little as 1GB for a week. If you just need enough data to get around in a new city, this is a good option. It works with Google Pay, credit card, PayPay, and even Alipay.

If you have an iPhone, there's even an official T-Mobile Prepaid eSIM app that accepts credit card payments from a number of countries. Regrettably, this app isn't available on Android though there are still other eSIM providers on the platform.

Just be sure to confirm compatibility before taking off. Still, there are other apps available on Android that offer solid deals on data without contacts or physical SIMs necessary.

• MVNO deals: Mint Mobile | Visible | Boost | Tello | Cricket

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After almost a decade of working in the e-commerce space, Patrick Farmer (he/him) began his career at Android Central as a Deals and Commerce Writer before moving into a new role as AC's eCommerce Editor in 2023. When he's not hunting down the best deals and offering shopping advice for our readers, you'll often find him listening to music, camping out at a brewery, or treating his cat like a human child. 

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Best Mobile Networks and Sim Cards for Tourists Visiting Singapore

• Written By Tahmid Munim Hossain,
• This article was first published on January 25, 2023,
• and last updated on 11 months ago
• In the Category Travel Tips

Home » Articles » Best Mobile Networks and Sim Cards for Tourists Visiting Singapore

In Singapore, the number of people who can use public data networks for free has grown a lot, and today 95% of the inhabitants can do so for free. In Singapore, the price of a mobile sim card and internet use has gone through the roof in the last few years. Because of this, a lot of people who visit Singapore use their phones while they are there.

If you are coming from a different country, There are a lot of things you should know before traveling to Singapore . However, it might be hard to choose the correct SIM card and cell plan.

Even though there are local mobile companies in Singapore, tourists often use prepaid SIM cards or international roaming plans. This article will save you time by giving you a full list of the best mobile networks and SIM cards that tourists in Singapore can use.

Can Tourists get SIM cards in Singapore?

Visitors and people in Singapore who are at least 15 or 16 years old can buy a SIM card from the nation’s mobile network providers as long as they follow the rules. In Singapore, you can buy a prepaid SIM card that works for up to 180 days or a tourist SIM card that works for one week.

Most of the time, these SIM cards only work for a certain amount of time and don’t come with a service agreement. So, they are better for tourists than for people who live there all the time.

Where can you buy a SIM Card in Singapore?

Tourist SIM cards from Singtel can usually be bought at the following places in Singapore:

• Singapore Changi Airport
• Travelex Foreign Currency Exchange
• Cheers store
• 7-Eleven store
• Authorized retailers at Harbourfront / Tanah Merah
• Other authorized retailers

The only places you can get the 5G S$30/S$50 Tourist SIM card are Travelex Foreign Currency Exchange, Changi Airport, Singtel Shops, and Singtel Exclusive Retailers.

You can pre-order a Singtel tourist SIM card through the following websites and apps and pick it up at Singapore Changi Airport or any Singtel Shop when you get there. To purchase a Singtel tourist SIM card, you should first place an order and expect to be paid for it. Then, you can pick it up at one of these places,

• Travelex at Singapore Changi Airport
• Changi Travel Services at Singapore Changi Airport
• Singtel Shops islandwide

Is it wise to buy SIM Cards at airports?

The best place to get a pre-paid sim card is at Singapore International Airport. There are three international arrivals terminals, but you can get a prepaid sim card for visitors no matter which one you use.

At Singapore’s Changi Airport, it’s easy to find one of the many stores that sell sim cards to travelers. You will see these shops as soon as you walk into the terminal. After getting your bag off the moving belt, you can leave through the glass sliding doors. To your left and right, you’ll see car rental agencies and people selling prepaid SIM cards.

Can you use your phone in Singapore?

The Global System for Mobiles (GSM) network makes mobile phone service possible in Singapore. CDMA phones will not work in Singapore. All 4 of Singapore’s major phone companies use the GSM network, so your unlocked phone should work with any of them.

Singaporeans use the more common European frequencies found in Africa, Asia (including the Middle East), Europe, and Oceania. North America, Central America, South America, and the Caribbean have frequencies which are different from those in Europe. If you bought your phone in Africa, Asia, Europe, or Oceania, you shouldn’t have any trouble using it in Singapore. If you buy a cheap or mid-range phone in the Americas that doesn’t support Tri-Band or Quad-Band, it might not work at all in Singapore or only work on slower networks (3G or 2G).

Mobile Operators, Networks & Frequencies in Singapore

In Singapore, a gigabyte of data costs about $0.61. This is much less than the average price of $1.47 across all of Asia. The average price around the world is 3.12 USD. Actually, Singapore is somewhere in the middle when it comes to the price of mobile data in Southeast Asian countries. In Singapore, you can get prepaid services from four different mobile network providers.

• M1 Singapore
• SIMBA (formerly TPG Mobile Singapore)

The following frequencies are used in Singapore:

• 2G: N/A–shut down on the 1st of April 2017
• 3G: 900 MHz & 2100 MHz
• 4G/LTE: 900 MHz (Band 8), 1800 MHz (Band 3), 2100 MHz (Band 1) & 2600 MHz (Band 7 & Band 38)
• 5G NR: 2100 MHz (n1) & 3500 MHz (n78)

Check again to make sure your phone is unlocked. Unless you change it, the only SIM card that will work is the one your home operator gives you.

What are the best SIM Cards and eSim in Singapore?

People are very different in how long they like to stay, how much data they use, and other such things. There are four Tourist SIM cards, and each one can be used in Singapore for up to seven days.

The best SIM card for a 7-day trip

To keep things simple, short-term travelers are vacationers who need a lot of data each day (1–3 GB) for things like online navigation, mobile research, and social networking.

Singapore 10 or 12 day Tourist SIM Cards

Singapore prepaid sim card for budget longterm visitors.

If you won’t need much data because your hotel or hostel has free WiFi, or if you’re on a tight budget and don’t see the point in paying $12 for data, take a look at this.

Best eSIM in Singapore

With the M1 platform, prepaid service providers can offer eSIMs to their customers. But only if you pay 12 SGD for a tourist SIM card (or eSIM, for that matter). Prepaid users can’t get an eSIM because there’s no way for them to get one (yet). With Asialink eSIM, you won’t have to buy a local SIM card or eSIM in each country you visit. This could save you a lot of money.

Best International/Travel SIM Card for Singapore

If you want the best international/travel SIM card for Singapore, I recommend getting one of SimCorner’s Singapore Travel SIM cards. You could use one of SimCorner’s Asia SIM cards in Singapore and more than 20 other countries, such as Indonesia, Malaysia, and Thailand, which are close by.

The SimCorner International Travel SIM card has 6 GB of data that lasts for 15 days and can be used in Singapore and more than 100 countries, including most of the Asian countries listed above as well as the Americas, Europe, and Oceania.

StarHub’s $12 Go Prepaid SIM is also a good investment if you plan to travel to any of 17 countries outside of Singapore: Australia, Canada, China, Hong Kong, India, Indonesia, Japan, Macau, Malaysia, Myanmar, New Zealand, Philippines, South Korea, Taiwan, Thailand, United Kingdom, or the United States. When it comes to calls to other countries, both the $12 StarHub Travel Prepaid SIM and the $12 hello! A tourist SIM card will give you 1GB of data roaming for free in Happy Roam countries like Malaysia and Indonesia.

How much does a SIM card cost in Singapore?

When you go to Singapore, you might save money if you buy a tourist SIM card instead of a local one.

SIM cards from Singtel cost between $8 and $38 (about $5.95 and $28.10), from $8 to $50 (about $37 USD) from StarHub, $10 (about $7.40 USD) from SIMBA (formerly TPG Mobile), and between $14 ($10.35 USD) and $27 ($20 USD) from M1. Tourist SIM cards with 100GB of space cost between $12 and $50 SGD. SIM cards can also be bought at Changi Airport in Singapore (SIN).

Singtel is the only company that sells 5G sim cards that are already paid for. Customers who pay as they go can now get 5G service from them. At Singapore Airport, a 5G sim card costs $70 SGD, but in the city, it only costs $30 SGD.

Since all mobile internet providers in Singapore offer a high-quality 4G network, we found that SIMBA is the best deal for tourists in 2023. You can get 30 days of service, 100 GB of data, and unlimited talk time for just $7 USD.

Singtel SIM Cards

• 120 GB, 15 days for SGD 50 ($35.03)
• 100 GB, 12 days for SGD 30 ($21.02)

M1 SIM Cards

• 150 GB, valid for 4 weeks for SGD 20 ($14.01)
• 56 GB, valid for 4 weeks for SGD 12 ($8.41)
• 168 GB, valid for 12 weeks for SGD 49 ($34.32)

Simba SIM Cards

• 100 GB, 30 days, SGD 10 ($7.01)
• 130 GB, 30 days, SGD 18 (12.61)

Can you buy a Singapore SIM card online?

If you pre-order a SIM card from a store like Amazon, it will be ready for you when you arrive. Various packages can be found on Amazon. You should check to see if the countries you want to visit are on the list, but there are many other options to think about.

Asian SIM cards that have already been paid for are another option. You can use this if you are from the US or Australia.

How to do SIM Card Registration in Singapore?

In Singapore, you need to use your passport information to sign up for a SIM card. This will happen when the real transaction is made.

Find out which countries require you to register your SIM card and what the rules are in those countries. I’ve written out the steps below so that any mobile service provider can use them.

• The first step is to get the app from the cell phone company.
• Next, give us the information that your ID card asks for. You need a valid ID, Work Permit, Employment Pass, or Passport from the government.
• The SIM card’s information must be typed in or scanned.
• Just use a scanner to take a picture of your ID and upload it. Only the front of a photo is needed for a passport, but both sides are needed for an NRIC, a work permit, or an employment pass.
• Finally, you have to use Facial Validation.

Is there free Wi-Fi in Singapore?

Most public and business places on the island have Wi-Fi connections. Here are the options we offer.

Wireless@SGx

Changi airport.

Thanks to #WiFi@Changi, the public and transit areas of Changi Airport have free Wi-Fi.

Shopping Malls, Restaurants and Cafes

Some restaurants, bars, and cafes in Singapore let their customers use Wi-Fi for free.

They often advertise WiFi to shoppers, but if you need it, you can always ask at the mall’s information desk.

You can actually buy local prepaid SIM cards, international SIM cards, mobile hotspots or pocket Wi-Fi. Each of these options has both good and bad things about it. If you buy a prepaid SIM card at Changi Airport, it will cost you more than if you buy the same card in the middle of Singapore. So, you shouldn’t buy a prepaid SIM card until you get to your final destination.

When you go to Singapore, it’s always better to have mobile data on hand. With the Best Mobile Sim Cards, visitors can get unlimited bandwidth on a super-fast 5G or 4G connection.

Tahmid Munim Hossain

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Best Singapore Prepaid SIM Card for Travellers

By: Author Eva

Posted on February 26, 2024

Categories singapore

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Who can live and travel without data SIM card? I CAN’T.

SIM card is my second priority when I arrive in a new country, after local currency. Having a local SIM card with data gives me confidence and assurance that I can survive in a new country even if I don’t speak the language.

When my family and friends visit me in Singapore , they’re always asking me to help them buy SIM cards, so I had to analyze what’s the best SIM card for them. And I figured, why not post my analysis on this blog, maybe it will help somebody out there.

To be honest, choosing the best SIM card in Singapore is both easy and hard! Easy because there are only 3 major mobile operators in Singapore, namely Singtel, M1 and StarHub.

It’s hard because every operator offers so many different SIM cards with different features and validity, it’s so hard to choose what’s the most suitable card for you.

Let me spare you from the headache of choosing a SIM card. In the first section of this article, I’ll do detailed breakdown of each SIM card from each operator.

Then, in the second section, I’ll do comparisons of SIM cards for different scenarios based on length of stay and provide my analysis and recommendations.

Finally, I’ll have some FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions) to answer common queries that I often receive. Let’s dive in!

No time to read the entire comparison? Here are my best picks: • For up to 10 days of stay:  StarHub $12 Travel Prepaid SIM (100GB for 10 days) • For 11 to 30 days of stay: M1 $14 Prepaid Tourist SIM (100GB for 30 days) • Best eSIM: M1 $12 Prepaid Tourist SIM (100GB for 15 days) • For people who also need EZ-Link card:  Singtel hi!Tourist 2-in-1 EZ-Link SIM Card (100GB 4G for 28 day, EZ-Link is valid for 5 years) • For data roaming outside Singapore: M1 $14 Prepaid Tourist SIM Card (100GB for 30 days in 5 countries) or StarHub $32 Travel Prepaid SIM (100GB for 30 days in 17 countries) • For budget traveller who doesn’t need a lot of data: Singtel’s $8 hi!Prepaid SIM (can’t pick up from airport)

Table of Contents

Overview of all Prepaid SIM Cards in Singapore

Singtel’s normal prepaid SIM card is called hi! SIM card , while Singtel’s tourist SIM card is called hi!Tourist SIM card . Here’s the overview of all Singtel’s prepaid SIM card and Singtel’s tourist SIM Card.

Have any questions about traveling in Singapore? Join All About Singapore Travel FB group, I'll be there to answer your questions!

Useful links for Singtel Prepaid hi! SIM Card: 1. List of Data Plans . 2. hi!SIM rates (including local call, overseas call, SMS, roaming charges) as of January 2021. 3. List of data roaming packages. 4. List of ways to top up hi! SIM card .

All hi! Tourist SIM cards offer unlimited usage of Facebook, Whatsapp, LINE and WeChat, however, if you read the fine prints, it says the usage of this is limited to 1GB a day. I’d say just ignore this gimmick because when you have 100GB free local data, why should you care about free 1GB data for social media.

Where to buy Singtel SIM Cards?

Normal Prepaid SIM (hi! SIM Cards):

• Singtel’s website
• Singapore Changi Airport (Terminal 1, 2 and 3): Travelex Currency Exchange Counters, Changi Recommends Counters.
• Singtel shops
• Singtel Exclusive Retailers
• Selected Authorised Singtel Prepaid Retailers
• Selected Cheers

Tourist SIM card (hi!Tourist SIM Cards):

• Selected Authorised Singtel Prepaid Retailers including Tanah Merah Ferry Terminal, HarbourFront Ferry Terminal, Causeway Points, Sentosa FUN Shops
• Selected 7-Eleven and Cheers

Looking for ideas on what to do in Singapore? Here’s my guide on the best things to do in Singapore .

StarHub’s normal prepaid SIM card is called StarHub Prepaid , while StarHub’s tourist SIM card is called StarHub Travel Prepaid . Below is the comparison of StarHub’s prepaid SIM cards.

Notes about StarHub Prepaid SIM cards: 1. For $15 Prepaid, free 2GB data comprises 1.2GB first month; then 200MB/month for the next 5 months. FREE WeChat App, Whatsapp Messenger and LINE App is valid for 180 days from activation date. 2. List of data plans . 3. StarHub Prepaid SIM card rates . 4. Here’s the info about Happy Roam . 5. For $50 StarHub Prepaid SIM, the free 5GB data roam can be used locally as well as overseas in countries listed in the Happy Roam destinations. 6. List of ways to top up StarHub Prepaid SIM card . 7. Free 120GB local data, $100 IDD 018 credit, 5000 mins local calls and 200 local SMS will be awarded within 3 days of SIM card activation. Promotion valid until further notice. 8. 80GB data consists of 4GB local/roaming data & 76GB local data. 20GB will be awarded immediately upon successful purchase. Additional 60GB local data, 5000 mins local calls, 200 local SMS and $100 IDD credit will be credited within the same day.

Notes:  9. Free overseas calls can be used to make a call to the countries listed in the IDD 018 destinations. 10. Free data roam can only be used in countries listed in the Happy Roam destinations 11. Top-up for all prepaid cards can be done online, through StarHub Prepaid App or offline. See the complete Top up options .

Based on my past experience, I think StarHub is the most competitive operator, they often provide better value compared to other operators with their promotions. But, I feel that they have too many promotions, add-ons, bonuses and different top-up prices. Some promotions last for a long time, others disappear after a while.

It’s hard to make the right decision when trying to choose the best StarHub card or the best StarHub plans at any given time if the variables keep changing. To make it simple, I recommend that you ignore all the bonuses when trying to decide which card/plan is the best.

Where to buy StarHub Cards?

• Pre-order Starhub $12 Happy Travel Prepaid , and collect at Singapore Changi Airport.
• StarHub Shops
• StarHub’s Exclusive Partner outlets
• StarHub Authorised Retailers
• 7-Eleven stores
• Cheers convenience stores
• StarHub Counters (Terminal 1, 2, 3 and 4)
• UOB Currency Exchange Counters (Terminal 1, 2, 3 and 4)
• Travellers Counters (Terminal 2 and 3, Arrival Halls)

M1’s normal prepaid SIM card is called M1 Prepaid SIM Card , while its tourist SIM is simply called M1 Tourist SIM Card . Below is the comparison of all M1’s prepaid cards.

* International call rates ** $20 M1 Prepaid SIM comes with up to 1,000 IDD 033 mins (Bangladesh 400 mins / India 1,000 mins / China 1,000 mins / Indonesia 200 mins / Philippines 80 mins / Malaysia 500 mins) ## For use in Hong Kong, Indonesia, Macau, Malaysia and Taiwan, you can use your existing data from your local data packs without extra charges (but you need to activate data roaming first). For other countries, you need to purchase a roaming pack . ^ Top up options for M Card

Where to buy M1 Cards?

M1 Tourist SIM Card:

• Pre-order $12 M1 Tourist SIM and collect from Changi Airport or city areas.
• M1 Shops ($12/$30 Tourist SIM)
• Changi Meet & Greet ($30/$50 Tourist SIM) at Changi Airport Terminal 1, 2, 3 & 4 Arrival Halls (Public Area)
• Changi Recommends ($30/$50 Tourist SIM) at Changi Airport Terminal 4 Arrival Hall (Public Area)
• Selected 7-Eleven and Cheers ($12 Tourist SIM)
• M1 Exclusive Distributors
• Appointed Authorised Retailers
• 7-Eleven and Cheers stores
• FairPrice Xpress
• Selected SingPost Branches

What’s the best SIM card for short-term travellers (less than 1 month stay)?

Now that I have covered every prepaid SIM cards from each operator, it is time to compare these SIM cards across different operators, based on several scenarios.

Different people have different length of stay, data usage and other preferences. To simplify, I’m going to assume that short-term travellers are leisure travellers who use a good amount of internet (1GB to 3GB) on a daily basis for the purpose of navigation, on-the-go research and social media.

For short-term travellers, I’ll be comparing SIM cards that give at least 80GB which is more than enough for 1-month stay in Singapore.

If you think you don’t belong in this category because you can survive without internet when exploring Singapore, then you can skip this section and jump to the next section where I discuss about normal prepaid SIM card for long-term travellers.

Best SIM Card for shorter stays (2 weeks or less)

For shorter stays of (2 weeks or less), there are 5 competing Tourist SIM cards, namely:

• Singtel $12 hi! Tourist SIM Card (100GB 4G for 14 days)
• Singtel $18 hi!Tourist EZ-Link SIM Card (100GB 4G for 28 days)
• StarHub $12 Travel Prepaid SIM Card (100GB for 10 days)
• M1 $12 Prepaid Tourist SIM Card (100GB for 15 days)
• M1 $14 Prepaid Tourist SIM Card (100GB for 30 days)

M1 has 2 very similar SIM cards, $12 and $14. The main difference between these 2 cards are roaming data allowance. M1 $14 comes with 100GB which is shared between local data & roaming data, while M1 $12 comes with 100GB local data only. Another difference would be the validity, M1 $12 is valid for 15 days while M1 $14 is valid for 120 days, but all the free stuffs (data, calls, SMS) are valid for 30 days only.

Case 1: If you’re visiting Singapore for up to 10 days , you can get any of the $12 Tourist SIM card from Singtel/StarHub/M1 Tourist SIM. My readers’ favorite is StarHub $12 Travel Prepaid SIM (100GB for 10 days) .

If you just want to get the cheapest one, you can choose either StarHub $12 Travel Prepaid SIM (100GB for 10 days) or M1 $12 Prepaid Tourist SIM Card (100GB for 15 days) ; both of which are retailing at SGD8.60 at the time of writing.

If you have a specific preference for eSIM, you can choose either Singtel $12 hi! Tourist SIM Card (100GB 4G for 14 days) or M1 $12 Prepaid Tourist SIM Card (100GB for 15 days) .

Case 2: If you’re visiting Singapore for 11 to 14 days , you can get either

Singtel $12 hi! Tourist SIM Card (100GB 4G for 14 days) or M1 $12 Prepaid Tourist SIM Card (100GB for 15 days) .

If you’re planning to visit other countries after Singapore , scroll down to the section about “Best SIM Card for travellers who need data roaming”

If you don’t need a lot of data because you can use your hotel or hostel’s wifi, or if you’re a budget traveler and you think paying $12 for data is a waste of money, but you need a SIM card to make calls, scroll down and read the section about budget long-term travellers.

If this is your first time visiting Singapore and you want to explore the country using public transportation, you need to have a transport card. To understand all the different transport cards in Singapore, read: Singapore Tourist Pass, EZ Link or Contactless Bank Card? Which One is Better?

If you have read my guide about travel cards and decide that you want an EZ-Link card , I recommend that you get Singtel’s $18 hi!Tourist EZ-Link SIM Card . Here are some details about this card:

• It is a 2-in-1 Tourist SIM and EZ-Link travel card
• Basically, you peel off the SIM card from the EZ-Link card, so you have 2 physical items: 1 small SIM Card and 1 EZ-Link.
• The SIM card validity is 7 days while the EZ-Link validity is 5 years from the manufacture date.
• The EZ-Link card has $3 free credit. However, please note that minimum balance you need to maintain in EZ-Link card is $3 (below $3, you can’t take any MRT or bus with it), so you still have to perform a top up of minimum $10 to the EZ-Link in order to use it for public transport.

PS: If you’re a first-timer visitor to Singapore, I recommend you check my comprehensive library of Singapore Travel Guide to help you plan your trip.

Best SIM Card for longer stays (2 weeks to 1 month)

Even though there are Tourist SIM cards that gives 100GB with validity of 28 days & 30 days, I do not recommend those SIM cards anymore because you can get cheaper SIM card with greater data, as seen in the above table.

The total data you can get from Singtel $15 card is 100GB, StarHub $15 card is 128GB, and M1 $14 is 100GB. Based on the data allowance alone, it’s clear that the winner is StarHub $15 Prepaid SIM card for 28 days. Meanwhile, for up to 30 days of stay, you should get M1 $14 Prepaid Tourist SIM Card (100GB for 30 days) .

However, among do note Singtel $15 and StarHub $15 can’t be picked up from the airport, they must be picked up from retail stores in the city. I personally think 100GB is more than enough for 30 days, so I highly recommend M1 $14 Prepaid Tourist SIM Card (100GB for 30 days) .

If you are planning to travel to Hong Kong, Indonesia, Macau, Malaysia and Taiwan after Singapore, you should consider M1 $14 Prepaid Tourist SIM Card (100GB for 30 days) because the 100GB can be used in Singapore as well as those 5 roaming countries.

Best SIM Card for travellers who need data roaming

For people who are planning to visit other countries after Singapore, you can consider getting Singapore’s SIM card that provides data roaming.

In the above table, I’ve compiled a list of SIM cards that provide data roaming, the countries where the data roaming can be used, the amount of data roaming, and the data roaming duration.

The amount of data roaming is the total data roaming for all countries . For example: For StarHub $12, you get 1GB data roaming IN TOTAL, not in each country.

It’s clear that if we compare the amount of data roaming, the winner is M1 $14 Prepaid Tourist SIM Card (100GB for 30 days) . You get 100GB for 30 days for 5 overseas countries. However, do note that this 100GB is shared between Singapore data and overseas data.

If your next destination is not covered by M1, but it’s covered by StarHub, you can consider getting StarHub $12 Travel Prepaid SIM (100GB for 10 days) or StarHub $32 Travel Prepaid SIM (100GB for 30 days) , which gives 1GB or 3GB data roaming respectively. However, 1GB and 3GB are quite little and may only be enough for 3 days. If you need more days in other countries, do consider getting that country’s local SIM card instead.

What’s the best card for budget travellers, long-term travellers or residents?

For clarity, I define budget travellers as people who want to spend as little as possible, and don’t need a lot of data because they’ll be using the wifi from their accommodation.

I define long-term travellers as people who stays in the country for more than 1 month. And I define residents as people who live and work in the country.

Best SIM card for budget repeat visitors or budget long-term travellers who don’t need a lot of data

If you’re a budget type of person who keeps coming back to Singapore at least once a year, or you’re a budget long-term travellers staying in the country for more than 1 month, and you DON’T need a lot of data , it’s likely that you want to get a cheap SIM card that’s valid for months rather than the Tourist SIM card which is only valid for several days. But you have to remember to top up the card before it expires!

For this case, it looks like the best SIM card for you is the Singtel’s $8 hi!Prepaid SIM , which gives you free 1.5GB for 30 days, plus bonus 2GB if you register the SIM card yourself.

Best SIM card for long-term travelers or residents who need A LOT of data

If you’re a long-term traveller staying in the country for more than 1 month; or you want to keep a Singapore number because you visit Singapore about once every 6 months, and you NEED to use a lot of data because you don’t want to rely on wifi, I think the $15 category is suitable for you.

At first glance, both Singtel’s $15 and StarHub’s $15 give you more than 100GB for the first 30 days. So, if you intend to use A LOT of data in your first 30 days, you can forget about M1.

After 30 days, if you use Singtel, you’ll be left with 3GB free local data. With StarHub, you’ll be left with 200MB free data each month (which is too little, imo!).

In this case it’s clear that the winner is Singtel’s $15 hi!Prepaid SIM .

Now, let’s move to the next analysis!

If you’re a resident working/living in Singapore, I presume you’ll be using data most of the time, so the criteria to choose the best SIM card for you would be the price of data plans, especially the monthly plan.

Based on the above comparison table, $25 can get you 20GB data on Singtel, or 80GB data on StarHub. Meanwhile, $28 can get you 60GB on M1. To me, StarHub $15 Prepaid SIM has the most value for money in terms of data plan.

If course, if you’re a resident, you’re not constrained to only prepaid SIM cards. You are qualified to sign up for postpaid SIM cards from more than 3 operators.

Regarding coverage, personally I have used the service of all three mobile operators, and what I can say is, each operator performs well at certain locations and bad at other locations. No operator is truly better than other operators. This is just my opinion 🙂

Purchase on the spot or in advance?

First of all, not all SIM cards can be purchased in advance. For those cards that can be booked online, I highly recommend that you do, because you’ll never know how long the queue can be.

In busy city/tourist areas like Bugis or Orchard, queues at telecommunication shops can be insane (at least 30 mins of waiting).

At the airport, not every SIM card is available for sale (#truestory: they only sell the more expensive ones, but they keep changing strategy so you’ll never know).

If the SIM card that you want can’t be purchased online, I think your best bet is to go to not-so-busy 7-Eleven or Cheers convenient stores, or go to telecommunication shops in the morning (between 10 to 11am) or late at night (9pm onwards).

These are some of the most common questions that readers have asked me over the years.

1. What’s required to purchase SIM card in Singapore?

You need to bring passports during registration of the SIM card.

2. How many sim cards can I buy?

Each person is only allowed to have 3 prepaid SIM cards under their name, regardless of the service provider, in any 6 months period.

3. What are local data and roaming data?

Local data is the data that you can use in Singapore. Roaming data is the data that you can use when you’re outside Singapore.

4. Are incoming calls free?

Unfortunately, no. You will be charged when you receive local calls. If you have a lot of free local calls minutes, then these will be deducted when you receive incoming calls.

5. I want to maintain the validity of my SIM card so I can use it when I come back to Singapore in the future. How can I do so?

Get any prepaid SIM card, not the tourist SIM card. Then, download the apps (either Singtel hi! App, StarHub Prepaid App, or M1 Prepaid App) to check your card validity.

Finally, monitor your card validity consistently so that you can top up before its expiry date. These apps allow you to top up with credit card so it’s ok if you’re outside Singapore.

6. What is the cheapest SIM card in Singapore?

Singtel’s $8, StarHub’s $8 or M1’s $8.

So… that’s it!

I hope I have provided you with enough information to make your decisions 🙂 If you have any questions, let me know in the comment or ask me in All About Singapore Travel Group on Facebook where we discuss about traveling in Singapore.

Planning for a trip to Singapore? Here are some essential information to read next:

• Read my best articles about Singapore
• Awesome Places in Singapore You Can Visit for Free
• A Weekend Itinerary for Budget Travellers in Singapore

Disclosure: Some of the links in this post are affiliate links. If you make any purchase through my links, I will receive a small commission, at no extra cost to you. 

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Shashank Verma

Wednesday 4th of October 2023

Hi Eva, awesome blog! Keep it up! A lot of work gone into this!

Although I think know which SIM card I should be getting, it might be wise to pass it through you first.

We are travelling to Singapore (4 days), KL (2 days) and Thailand (8 days).

I was thinking - Singtel $30 Hi! Tourist. Do you concur?

On the FAQ, you said - Each person is only allowed to have 3 prepaid SIM cards under their name, regardless of the service provider, in any 6 months period.

So if I got two SIMs under my name, can I use one and give the other to my partner? Or does my partner order her own under her name?

And do I need to order online before arrival, or can I just pop over to one of their pickup locations (at the Airport) and get them there and then?

Will they help us set it all up to make sure its working fine?

Thursday 12th of October 2023

@Eva, I had another idea - I don't like giving my passport details everywhere. So what I was thinking is getting the $50 Hi! Tourist SIM. It's costly but in that way I will be covered for Malaysia and Thailand. I don't have to worry about Singapore as I get whopping 120GB. Having said that, the Thailand SIMs are much cheaper. But its just the inconvenience of it all.

I am a bit confused with people saying they charge more at the airport than says 7-11. If I got a $50 Tourist SIM from the airport, would the same SIM cost less at 7-11 or Cheers?

I soo appreciate your website and the way its all laid out and explained. I have been checking website on SIM for Thailand and there's hardly anything that comes close to yours. And whatever there is is either old or not really making sense.

Lastly, if I just wanted Roaming Data without any calls etc. then which SIM would you suggest? I will use Whatsapp etc. for calls. Only thing is I don't know if that would have any impact on using Grab.

The M1 $14 Prepaid Tourist SIM Card is a great SIM but sadly does not work in Thailand (or does it)? Or maybe I can get this for Singapore and Malaysia and then get a cheap SIM in Thailand. The 100GB is a lot even if its shared between local and roaming.

Tuesday 10th of October 2023

Hi Eva, many thanks for your advice.

What I will do is still get the $30 SIM and if I am close to running out of data in Thailand, I will buy a local SIM from there.

No point in topping up the Hi! SIM.

Monday 9th of October 2023

Hi Shashank, yes I agree that Singtel $30 hi!Tourist is the best choice in terms of data roaming availability. But do take note the data roaming allowance is only 5GB, which is pretty easy to blow up in a couple of days. If you don't really use data a lot, this sim card is fine. Otherwise, you may want to purchase another SIM card when you are in Thailand, since you'll be spending 8 days there.

If you buy 2 SIM cards, it should be fine to give one to your partner, but I'm not sure how strict Singtel is. It's definitely safer to let your partner buy the sim card under her own name. You can do either online booking or purchase during arrival. Online booking guarantees availability, from what I understand. You can consider getting esim so you don't need to physically collect the sim card. Yes, they will help you set up and register (bring your passport!).

Susanne Steinböck

Monday 4th of September 2023

Hi Eva, great blog, love it. The Singtel 2 in 1 Tourist SIM EZ card is back. It just costs $ 18.- now. Just for your information.

Thursday 7th of September 2023

@Eva, I am happy I found it. Your blog is the reason why my Singapore stopover in October has grown from one to two weeks. ;-) And this seams to be the best SIM card for me.

Tuesday 5th of September 2023

Thank you Susanne! I'll update it soon!

Monday 28th of August 2023

Hi, I plan to visit Singapore next week and move on to Taiwan. Do you know if the M1 tourist work well in Taiwan? I plan to buy the $14 one so that I don't have to buy another sim in Taiwan. Any one know the answer, thanks.

Refer to section "Best SIM Card for travellers who need data roaming"

Saturday 29th of July 2023

Hi! Great blog, really helpful! :)

I'm traveling to Singapore in a week. I just wanted to know, do Singtel tourist SIM cards allow sharing your data with another phone (hotspot)?

Also, "fair usage" is mentioned on their pages: Fair usage of 1GB per day per hi!Tourist SIM card applies for free access to Facebook; WhatsApp; Line; WeChat. Unlimited access to WhatsApp, Line and WeChat only includes messaging and does not include video/ voice calls. Can you tell me if the internet speed will be very slow when this 1GB per day is exceeded?

Monday 31st of July 2023

Hi L, Yes all cards allow you to do hotspot sharing. If you use their free social media data, yes after 1 GB you will experience slow connection speed. I suggest that you disregard the free social media data, and just use mobile data for all social media.

Hi Eva! We are visiting Singapore next week and I was exploring options for phone connections - wondering if I should activate international roaming on my phone, or get a local SIM card. Your article is amazing and so comprehensive. Thanks for all the tips. I am off to browse you other Singapore articles now. Have a great day!

Thank you so much Vidya =) Hope you have a great trip to Singapore!

Best 5G Tourist SIM Card in Singapore: 5 Reasons Why We Like the Singtel Tourist SIM

This post was written in collaboration with Singtel. While we are financially compensated by them, we nonetheless strive to maintain our editorial integrity and review products with the same objective lens. We are committed to providing the best information in order for you to make personal financial decisions with confidence. You can view our  Editorial Guidelines here .

Nowadays, any conversation between friends in Singapore results in a discussion about holiday plans. And no wonder, because borders have opened up after more than two years of Covid-19 restrictions!

Finally we head to Changi Airport for something other than eating and shopping at Jewel, tourists are starting to come back to Singapore, and well, doesn’t it just feel good to take a plane again???

One thing we need other than our passport and the local currency (and our vaccination certs) is having mobile data — this lets us stay in touch with people back home, search for info on the go, use online maps and manage our bookings.

This is the same for tourists who visit Singapore. For them, picking up a tourist SIM card right after arriving is essential, and chances are, you might have been asked by an overseas friend or a tourist where to get a tourist SIM in Singapore and which to choose.

What is a tourist SIM?

A tourist SIM is a prepaid SIM card that gives you a certain amount of data, as well text messages and talk time.

Tourist SIM cards do not come with a contract and are often valid only for a specific amount of time. They are thus suitable for those who are visiting, rather than living permanently, in a particular country.

Which SIM card is best in Singapore (in our opinion)?

One of the popular tourist SIM cards in Singapore comes from Singtel.

The Singtel tourist SIM card offers lightning-fast speeds on a 5G network. It is also super easy to get hold of — you can pick one up at Singapore Changi Airport or 7-Eleven stores islandwide…

But those aren’t the Singtel tourist SIM’s only advantages. Here are 5 other reasons why we like it.

1. How do I get this tourist SIM card? You can even buy it before you arrive in Singapore!

Yes, really! You can buy your Singtel tourist SIM online before you reach Singapore at the following websites or apps and pick them up at the airport or any Singtel Shop.

• singtel.com/hitourist

Next step, pay for your preferred Singtel tourist SIM online and then collect it at the following places:

• Travelex at Singapore Changi Airport
• Changi Travel Services at Singapore Changi Airport
• Singtel Shops islandwide

Alternatively, you can also buy the Singtel Tourist SIM from any of these outlets in Singapore:

• Travelex Foreign Currency Exchange
• Changi Recommends
• Cheers store
• 7-Eleven store
• Singtel Shop
• Authorised retailers at Harbourfront / Tanah Merah
• Other authorised retailers

Do note that the 5G S$30/S$50 Tourist SIM cards are only available at Travelex Foreign Currency Exchange, Changi Recommends, Singtel Shops and Singtel Exclusive Retailers.

How much is the Singtel Tourist SIM?

Here’s a nifty table that summarises all the Singtel tourist SIMs available, with data allowances of up to 120GB of 5G data, and how much they cost.

Singtel offers a wide suite of Tourist SIM cards, to meet all your travelling needs.

If you are a long-stay visitor, we will recommend their 5G S$50 or S$30 Tourist SIM with up to 120GB of 5G data to turbocharge your stay in Singapore, with unlimited local calls and SMSes, 90 minutes of international calls and up to 10GB of data roaming to popular destinations.

If you are a short-stay visitor, you may opt for Singtel’s 2-in-1 SIM Card which is a prepaid SIM as well as a stored value travel card that can be used on public transport services in Singapore. Priced at S$15, the SIM is packed with 100GB of 4G data and S$3 EZ-Link credit for rides on Singapore’s public trains and buses and can be topped-up subsequently.

2. Enjoy one of the most powerful 5G networks in Singapore

If you really want fast, powerful internet, the answer is to connect to a 5G network. 5G is up to 10 times faster than 4G/LTE because it uses higher-frequency radio bands. That means better, faster service and download speeds, even in crowded areas (which we know how Singapore can get, especially at key events such as the Singapore F1 Night Race), and the ability to connect more devices.

5G will pave the way for new technologies that we could previously only dream about, and is going to be the key to the development of virtual reality.

Here are some of the benefits you get from using Singtel’s 5G network:

• 10X Faster speeds – Download movies, games and content in seconds.
• 2X Latency – Experience 2x faster response time between devices, with less loading and waiting.
• Better bandwidth – Connect more devices without reduction in speed and quality.
• Consistent coverage​ – Get a reliable connection anywhere for high-quality streaming and more.
• Security – Better protection when you shop or transact online with your phone.

Singtel was the first telco in the world to achieve nationwide coverage

Singtel was the first telco in the world to achieve a standalone 5G network , and Singtel’s 5G network has since surpassed 95% nationwide coverage , more than 3 years ahead of schedule.

Nationwide coverage is a big deal as it means you can enjoy superfast 5G coverage anywhere in Singapore, including when you connect to public WiFi networks.

Singtel’s 5G network is now available at more than 1,300 outdoor locations and over 400 in-building spots , as well as underground, including on the North-East Line MRT .

4. Plenty of data for all your needs

Singtel’s tourist SIM gives you an abundance of data, with up to 120GB of 5G access.

That’s a LOT of data, which is ideal for tourists who might need to get some work done online, want to watch movies and videos, or simply need to do lots of research about their trip.

Or if you wanna livestream about your trip here, 120GB is plenty as well, and being on 5G means a smooth video feed!

5. Plenty of freebies, too!

Singtel tourist SIMs not only give you mobile data, but also include unlimited free local calls and SMSes and 90 international calling minutes.

Tourists can even take the SIM cards home with them and continue to enjoy free data roaming.

Being able to make calls, whether in Singapore or overseas, is important for tourists who might want to phone home, make work-related calls or make calls in Singapore regarding their accommodation and other matters.

And for the F1 fans who are coming to Singapore to see the races, Singtel is offering free limited edition collectibles , including an exclusive racing car thumbdrive with every 5G S$50/S$30 SIM, as well as an exclusive racing car passport cover with every S$15/S$12 SIM.

A trip to Singapore is always better with mobile data at your fingertips. Singtel’s tourist SIM cards enable visitors to enjoy abundant data on a super fast 5G connection.

Purchase a Singtel Tourist SIM online and collect it upon arrival or get them at Singapore Changi Airport! Enjoy your stay in Singapore!

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Tourists, get the best Singtel 5G Tourist SIM/eSIM in Singapore!

It’s F1 season when race enthusiasts from all over the world descend into Singapore. As always, lots of exciting activities have been lined up, both on and off the track. For tourists, we understand that there are simply so many things to do with so little time on our tiny island! To set you off on the right foot, simply purchase the Singtel 5G Tourist SIM or eSIM online before your arrival. That’s right, find out how the Singtel 5G Tourist SIM help you stay globally connected at the lowest possible cost.

What is the Singtel 5G Tourist SIM?

The 5G Tourist SIM is the most preferred Tourist SIM in Singapore. With 5G connectivity, it allows visitors to tap on the most powerful network island-wide. Here are the different types of Singtel 5G Tourist SIM available:

• $50 SIM Card (120GB 5G data, 10GB data roaming for 28 days)
• $30 SIM Card (100GB 5G data, 5GB data roaming for 28 days)

For those who do not require the 5G network (which we don’t advise), you may purchase the $12 Tourist SIM that comes with 100GB data for 14 days.

Benefits of Singtel 5G Tourist SIM

With the Singtel 5G Tourist SIM, you can look forward to unparalleled connectivity in Singapore, even when travelling underground on the MRT! With 10X faster speeds , 2X lower latency and better bandwidth , this ensures that you will upload photos and stream videos in no time. In a sport where every millisecond counts, you can be assured that you will never miss out on the action due to poor network with the Singtel 5G Tourist SIM.

Singtel 5G Tourist SIM is now available in eSIM!

Singtel’s new fully digital 5G Tourist eSIM offers travellers to Singapore the most convenient way to enjoy the world’s best 5G coverage experience .

The Singtel Tourist eSIM’s convenient online sign-up process will allow you to manage all your connectivity needs prior to departure. Upon arrival in Singapore, you can simply activate your eSIM on your mobile devices via Singtel hi!App. This seamless provisioning process enables you to save on the precious time you would have otherwise needed to spend queuing at a physical outlet to purchase a SIM card. In additional, you can avoid the hassle of switching SIM cards. Simply toggle between your own SIM card and the Singtel Tourist eSIM effortlessly. Purchasing the Tourist eSIM also very convenient because everything can be done online in a truly digital experience.

Convinced of the benefits? Here’s the step by step guide on how you can purchase the Singtel 5G eSIM even before your arrival.

How to buy the Singtel 5G Tourist eSIM?

• Step 1: Order eSIM at singtel.com/hitourist . Do ensure your device is eSIM compatible.
• Step 2: Get eSIM order confirmation. Receive your eSIM reference number and verification code.
• Step 3: Download and register on Singtel hi!App when you are in Singapore
• Step 4: Install eSIM on hi!App and add eSIM on mobile data settings on your mobile phone and you are all set to go.

How to buy the physical Singtel 5G Tourist SIM?

If your phone is not eSIM compatible or you still prefer a physical Tourist SIM, you can buy your Singtel tourist SIM online before you reach Singapore at the following websites or apps and pick them up at the Singapore Changi Airport.

• singtel.com/hitourist

Next step, pay for your preferred Singtel tourist SIM online and then collect it at the following places:

• UOB Money Changing Counter at Singapore Changi Airport
• Travelex at Singapore Changi Airport
• Changi Travel Services at Singapore Changi Airport
• Singtel Shops islandwide

Alternatively, you can also buy the Singtel Tourist SIM from any of these outlets in Singapore:

• UOB Money Changing Counter
• Travelex Foreign Currency Exchange
• Changi Recommends
• Cheers store
• 7-Eleven store
• Singtel Shop
• Authorised retailers at Harbourfront / Tanah Merah
• Other authorised retailers

Do note that the 5G S$30/S$50 Tourist SIM cards are only available at UOB Money Changi Counter, Travelex Foreign Currency Exchange, Changi Recommends, Singtel Shops and Singtel Exclusive Retailers.

Free Collectibles!

For those who buy the 5G Tourist eSIM, you will receive a free $5 KKday voucher for limited period. For those who pre-order online and choose to collect or buy the Tourist SIM card at Changi Airport (UOB Money Changing Counter, Travelex Foreign Exchange Counters) instead, you will also receive free high-speed racing souvenirs as part of F1 season.

Not to worry if you have forgotten to purchase your Singtel 5G Tourist SIM Card before arrival. That is because you can simply step into any convenience stores (Cheers, 7-Eleven) or Singtel Shop in Singapore to get your hands on them.

With that out of the way, you can sit back, relax and enjoy the F1 show!

Here’s a nifty table that summarises all the Singtel tourist SIMs available, with data allowances of up to 120GB of 5G data, and how much they cost. Singtel offers a wide suite of Tourist SIM, to meet all your travelling needs.

By MoneyDigest

View all articles by MoneyDigest

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Singapore hi! Tourist $30 SIM

hi!Tourist SIM: Packed with everything you need. 

$30 hi!Tourist SIM Card

• Valid for 10 days
• 100GB local data
• Unlimited local call-time*^
• Unlimited local SMS*
• 90 minutes international call-time^
• Free 1GB/day access to Facebook, Whatsapp, Line, Wechat
• Comes with 2GB Data roam to Malaysia, Indonesia, Australia for 10 days from card activation

^Local and International Calls are charged based on per minute block. *Unlimited Local Calls/SMS refer to 3000 Local Call minutes and 5000 Local SMS for 10 days.

Other information:

To Check Balance and Validity: Call *100*1# 

To Call Overseas: Dial 019 (E.g. 019 61 123456789)

Problem with Internet Access: Ensure that your setting for APN (Access Point Name) is set to hicard in your phone's internet settings.

How to Redeem

• Prepaid SIM has to be collected at the Changi Recommends' Counters in Singapore Changi Airport.
• Please present printed copy of the e-voucher during the collection of the SIM card.
• Please present your passport for registration during the collection of the SIM card

Due to Singapore regulations, all Singapore SIM cards will need to be collected in Singapore. Upon purchase of the Singapore SIM card, you will receive a redemption voucher sent to your registered email address with us. This redemption voucher will be used to redeem the SIM card at Singapore Changi Airport. Kindly see below for the list of collection points located in Singapore Changi Airport.

LIST OF CHANGI RECOMMENDS' COUNTERS

• Terminal 1 -  ARRIVAL HALL , LEVEL 1 (PUBLIC AREA) 24 HOURS
• Terminal 2 -  ARRIVAL HALL , LEVEL 1 (PUBLIC AREA) 24 HOURS
• Terminal 3 - ARRIVAL HALL, LEVEL 1 (PUBLIC AREA)   24 HOURS
• Terminal 4 -  ARRIVAL HALL , LEVEL 1 (PUBLIC AREA) 24 HOURS

Collection Method

Collection address, postal code, delivery address, departure date.

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新电信，游客eSIM的好选择。

现在就立即预订您的游客esim.

请查Singtel短信如何兑换礼券。

点击观看如何预订eSIM，注册并激活

Singtel prepaid tourist esim up to 120gb 5g data - powered by singtel 5g, 新电信提供高达120gb 5g流量，种类繁多的tourist游客预付卡或 esim, 可满足您的所有旅行需求。, 您可在以下商店购买高达120gb 5g网络的tourist游客预付卡。​, hitourist 游客预付卡, 易通卡（ez-link）.

© Singtel (CRN: 199201624D) All Rights Reserved.

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Traveler Guide: Getting a SIM Card at Changi Airport

Singapore Changi International Airport is an award-winning international airport that provides travelers with the greatest services, shopping, and eating choices. As a result, it will supply many of the services you need for a Singapore trip, such as transportation, food, lodging, tour services, etc., and, of course, you can purchase a SIM card to remain in contact throughout your visit. Let’s check out this guide to find your own SIM card at Changi Airport .

Table of Contents

I. where to buy a sim card (or esim) at changi airport.

Singapore has 3 mobile network companies that provide prepaid services to travelers: Singtel, StarHub, and M1 Singapore. In the secure/transit area and the arrivals hall, many kiosks and businesses at Singapore Changi Airport offer Singtel, StarHub, and M1 Singapore tourist SIM cards . 

Of course, the most convenient place to acquire your Singapore prepaid SIM card is at Singapore International Airport. There are three international arrival ports; however, you may get a prepaid SIM card for visitors regardless of where you arrive.

Various stores at Singapore Airport offer travelers SIM cards, which are fairly simple to locate. They are the first shops you notice when you enter the arrival hall. After retrieving your bags from the luggage belt, go through the glass sliding doors, and depending on which exit you choose, you will notice SIM card businesses and vehicle rentals on your left or right-hand side in front of you. 

We will provide all the places you can find SIM cards of these 3 carriers, including Changi Airport. Let’s go into the specifics. 

1. Starhub 

StartHub is one of the top 3 mobile operators in Singapore. The conventional StarHub Prepaid SIM card and the StarHub Travel Prepaid SIM card are used by tourists. The prepaid SIM cards offered by StarHub are contrasted below.

• Changi Airport 
• SingPost StarHub Counters (Terminal 1, 2, 3 and 4
• UOB Currency Exchange Counters at Terminals 1, 2, 3, and 4.
• Traveler Counters (Terminal 2 and 3, Arrival Halls)
• $12 in advance for Starhub Happy Travel Prepaid, and pick up at Changi Airport in Singapore.
• SkyHub Stores
• Outlets run by StarHub’s Exclusive Partners
• StarHub Approved Stores
• 7-Eleven outlets
• Salutations, convenience shops

M1 is also a popular option for SIM card at Changi Airport. The M1 Tourist SIM Card is the same as the M1 Prepaid SIM Card, which is the company’s standard prepaid SIM card. The comparison of all M1 prepaid cards can be seen below.

• Purchase a $12 M1 Tourist SIM in advance and pick it up at Changi Airport or nearby.
• $12/$30 for a tourist SIM at M1 Shops
• Changi Meet & Greet ($30/$50 Tourist SIM) at the arrival halls of Changi Airport’s Terminals 1, 2, 3, and 4. (Public Area)
• Changi Recommends ($30/$50 Tourist SIM) at the Terminal 4 Arrival Hall of Changi Airport (Public Area)
• a few Cheers and 7-Eleven locations ($12 Tourist SIM)

The conventional prepaid SIM card from Singtel is known as the hi! SIM card, whereas the tourist SIM card from Singtel is known as the hi!Tourist SIM card. The list of Singtel’s prepaid and tourist SIM cards can be found here.

• Travelex Currency Exchange Counters, Changi Recommends Counters in Singapore Changi Airport (Terminals 1, 2, and 3)
• Website of Singtel
• Singtel stores
• Selected Singtel Exclusive Retailers Tanah Merah Ferry Terminal, HarbourFront Ferry Terminal, Causeway Points, and Sentosa FUN Shops are all authorized Singtel Prepaid Retailers.
• 7-Eleven and Cheers

II. How Much Does a SIM Card Cost at Changi Airport? 

The cost of a Singapore SIM card at Changi International Airport varies depending on your chosen mobile network operator and plan. SIM cards typically cost between 15 and 70 SGD and contain some initial credit. The package’s data amount, calling length, and validity term may also affect the cost.

Tips: SIM cards at the airport is quite expensive. For more convenience in choosing plan prices, you can find some eSIM providers to pick a Singapore eSIM plan for your trip. 

III. What We Need to Prepare for Getting a SIM Card (or eSIM) at Changi Airport? 

There are a few items you should have ready when obtaining a SIM card for Singapore at Changi International Airport to help the procedure go more smoothly:

• Passport/Visa: When acquiring a SIM card, you must provide your passport. This is necessary for registration, and a copy of your passport may be requested.
• Cash: Because most stores that sell SIM cards at Singapore International Airport only take cash, it’s a good idea to have some SGD on hand.
• Phone : Bring your phone with you since the staff may need to verify that the SIM card in your device is operating correctly.

• Understanding of your phone: To guarantee that you acquire the proper size, you need to know the sort of SIM card your phone requires (regular, micro, or nano).
• Understanding of several packages: It is beneficial to know the kind of package you want, including data volume, calling length, and validity period. This will assist you in selecting the best plan for your requirements and budget.

IV. Should We Get a SIM Card (or eSIM) at Singapore Changi Airport?

It is advised to obtain a SIM card at Singapore Changi Airport because tourist SIM cards with sizable allowances are available here at affordable pricing. Although they will overcharge you by up to 35 SGD, Changi Recommends booths should not be used to purchase SIM cards.

V. Should We Get an eSIM Before Arriving at Changi Airport? 

It is recommended that travelers purchase an eSIM before arriving at Changi Airport rather than purchasing one at the airport. An eSIM is a digital SIM card that may be activated on your mobile device without physically inserting the new sim card. So, you can purchase 1 Singapore eSIM plan and install it on your device 1 day before departure. Then, you can use it.

SingeSIM.com offers several eSIM plans, from Singapore eSIM 1 day plan to Singapore eSIM 30 days plan . You can base on your schedule plan for your trip to pick the most suitable eSIM plan.

The following are some advantages and disadvantages of utilizing an eSIM when visiting Singapore:

• Personal information is not required to be registered.
• Purchase and activate the eSIM well in advance of the travel date.
• Maintain your connection as soon as you arrive at the airport.
• While utilizing the eSIM, keep your original SIM card in your phone.
• You may easily activate the eSIM on your mobile device without visiting a physical shop.

Cons: 

• Requires a mobile handset that supports eSIM.
• If you lose or damage your phone or have technical problems, you may be unable to utilize the eSIM, which might be inconvenient when traveling.

VI. Are Singapore eSIMs and SIM Cards Compatible with All Phones? 

Singapore phones use the GSM 900 and 1800 frequency bands. Whether you’re coming from a European or Asian nation, a Singapore SIM card should work, but verify the specs of your phone to see whether it supports Singapore’s GSM frequency band. That information is available from your phone service provider or the phone’s handbook.

You may as well make a fashion statement with those SIM cards you purchased if your phone isn’t designed to work on Singapore’s GSM frequency band.

However, if you are from the United States, Canada, or another Western Hemisphere country, things may get a little… complex. This is because many phone companies either employ CDMA technology (particularly US telcos such as Verizon, Sprint, and Alltel) or use alternative GSM frequency bands entirely. (800, 850, 1850, 1900, etc.).

If you possess a phone that has been “locked” by your phone service provider or operates on a different GSM frequency, you have three choices:

• Unlock and jailbreak your phone (if you don’t mind voiding the warranty and other technical hazards).
• Purchase a “world edition” phone with an unlocked SIM card slot (some phones are CDMA/GSM dual usage).
• Get a local GSM phone.

For eSIM, you need an unlocked and eSIM-compatible device. You should carefully check the eSIM-compatible device list and how to check unlocked devices first before choosing eSIM. 

VII. Some Ideal SIM Cards for Tourists in Singapore 

For your convenience, we will describe the most common Singapore SIM kinds and the specifics of each type for you to pick as follows.

7-days Tourist SIM card

12-days tourist sim card, prepaid sim card for data, singapore esim from singesim.com.

You can refer to some Singapore eSIM plans from singesim.com as below:

VIII. How to Top Up Your SIM Card in Singapore

You’ll undoubtedly need to top up your SIM card at some time, depending on how long you want to remain. There are three methods to top up your account:

• Top up your Singtel, StarHub, or M1 account online via the relevant top-up websites or prepaid mobile applications. 
• To top up your account electronically, visit a NETS Self-Service station, a Singapore Post SAM kiosk, an ATM (DBS, POSB, OCBC), or an AXS station.
• Fill up at a grocery shop, petrol station, or phone store. You have the option of having the cashier “top up” your phone for you or just taking the card and doing it yourself.

IX. Final Words

As soon as you land in Singapore, you may quickly get a SIM card at Changi Airport. Don’t be concerned about how to contact someone or where to get Sims. Please take the time to thoroughly prepare all paperwork to travel easily and to be completely informed about the best SIM type for you.

You may also save time and money by purchasing an eSIM before arriving by purchasing from trustworthy sources such as singesim.com , holafly.com, circles.life,… Have a pleasant and safe journey.

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How to buy the best singapore tourist sim card.

Getting online in Singapore is extremely easy, but sometimes, you need to make a phone call in an emergency, it’s very inconvenient when you are in abroad. Only when you find that your hotel is charging for your phone call by a minute. From that, you will realize that investing in a local SIM card in Singapore with your +65 phone number is extremely affordable! All conditions for purchasing a SIM are your passport and 8 dollars. Below are our guides on how to buy the best Singapore tourist SIM card.

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Where to buy a Singapore tourist SIM card?

The most convenient place to buy a SIM card in Singapore is 7-eleven; in addition, they are also sold at post offices, Cheers convenience stores, FairPrice supermarkets, Marina Sands hotels and guest service places of each Telcom. The Singapore government requires that all SIM cards in Singapore are registered at the time of purchase so that only showing your passport at the store, they will sign up for you.

Aside from, you can also go to one of the official currency exchange offices at the airport. You can choose SingTel, StarHub or M1. They can sell you a prepaid SIM card and there are many service packages to choose from them, depending on your stay, the amount of data needed and whether you want to make an IDD call or not.

The lowest price for the first time to get online of three suppliers from 6 to 8 Singapore dollars is hard to find. You will not be sure to buy them at the airport. The lowest priced packages for newcomers are rarely sold in downtown or Chinatown. The best place to find a low-cost for newcomers for S $ 6-8 is in Little India, in small shops along Seragoon Road and around Mustafa Center, where they always have policies “Promotion” and extensive advertising. Many visitors only stay for a limited time in town; they can have many better options.

Buy Tourist Sim in advance and which is the best Phone Service Supplier?

SingTel is the market leading supplier, Starhub is in the second rank and M1 is third. The quality and speed of all three networks are very good.

SingTel Mobile of SingTel Group is the largest supplier in Singapore and has a market share of about 45 percent. Singapore Telecommunications Ltd is one of the largest mobile operators in Southeast Asia. It has 99 percent coverage for 3G and 4G / LTE networks.

Their prepaid product is called “hi-card!” And it is sold with many different roaming packages; all have 4G / LTE.

• Package S$8: Including in your account is 10$S used for 90 days, only within the mini scope.
• Package S$15:  Including in your account is 18$S used for 120 days, only in the mini or microphone scope
• Package S$20 : Including 5 GB of data used for 7 days, in mini, micro, and nano scope, no call and send a messenger.

Link to buy SingTel tourist sim here.

Singtel tourist SIM card: Singtel has also released a travel SIM called hi! Tourist SIM. What are your mobile needs?

• Package S$15 hi!Tourist $15 SIM Card): 4G 100GB local data, 500 minutes of call and 100 local SMS, 30 minutes of international call, used for 7 days.
• Package S$30 (hi!Tourist $30 SIM Card): 10 GB of data, free for accessing Facebook, WhatsApp, Line, and WeChat (maximum 1 GB), unlimited local calls and SMS, 90 minutes international call, Used for 10 days
• Package S$50 (hi!Tourist $50 Twin Pack SIM Card): Valid for 10 days, 4G 100GB local data, Unlimited local calls, (FREE between main and supplementary line), Unlimited local SMS, (FREE between main and supplementary line), 90 minutes international calls, 5GB dataroam for Australia, Malaysia and Indonesia, Free Singtel WiFi.

These SIM cards in Singapore are available sold at Singtel stores, at all Changi Airport platforms, 7-Eleven stores, Cheers, ferry terminals, and bridges. You can see more hi!Tourist SIM Cards at here.

StarHub’s local StarHub Ltd is the second supplier in Singapore with good coverage and speed in 2G, 3G, and 4G / LTE coverage nationwide.

StarHub Tourist SIM: Their prepaid product is called “Happy Prepaid SIM” and is sold with many different packages with small and micro network scope:

• Package S$8: including in your account 10$S used for 90 days
• Package S$15: including in your account 18$S used in 180 days and 15 GB data usage in 5 days
• Package S$50 : including in your account 50$S used for 180 days and 15 GB of 10-days data, sold exclusively at the UOB Foreign Exchange at Changi Airport.

Link to buy StarHub Tourist Sim here.

Their travel SIM is only available at selected locations: Tourist SIM card stores. It is sold for a starting price of 32$S: The account has 18$S, 100 GB of data used for 5 days, 1 GB of data used for 30 days, 200 MB used for 30 days, Line and WeChat are not Deducted from promotional data, 4G / LTE free, 500 domestic SMS, 120 minutes international call, free incoming call – all have valid time for 30 days.

M1 (MobileOne) is the third largest supplier of SIM card in Singapore. The 2G has good coverage, 3G and 4G have an equal speed with Singtel and Starhub Supplier.

Their prepaid product is called “M Card” and is sold in various roaming packages with mini, micro and sometimes nano scope:

• Package S$5: including 6$S in your accounts and 100 MB of data used for 3 days
• Package S$15: having an account balance of 18$ and 500 MB of data used for 5 days

Link to buy M1 tourist 4G Sim here.

M1 tourist SIM: Their travel cards are sold with two different incentives:

• Package S$30: including 100 GB of data used for 5 days, 1 GB of data, free incoming call, 15$S for international calls and text messages, 15$S for local call and text messages – all valid for 7 days
• Package S$50: including 100 GB of data used for 5 days, 5 GB of data used for 7 days, free incoming call, 25$S for international calls and text messages, 25$S for inbound calls and text messages are used for 30 days.

Some best day tours, trips, activities and transfer services, tickets in Singapore and from Singapore you can refer to

• Singapore Changi Airport (SIN) Private Transfer
• Private City Transfers between Singapore and Johor Bahru
• Shared Changi Airport Transfers (SIN) for Singapore Hotels
• Singapore All Day Pass
• The Singapore Pass
• [Klook Exclusive] 3 Hours Singapore City Tour
• Singapore Cityscapes Tour
• [Klook Exclusive] Sentosa Island Introductory Tour in Singapore
• Singapore Big Bus Hop-On Hop-Off Tour (Open-Top)
• Sentosa FUN Pass
• Singapore City Pass (2/3 Days)
• [Klook Exclusive] Universal Studios Singapore™ 1 Day Ticket
• 4G Prepaid Sim Card (Changi Airport Pick Up) for Singapore
• 4G WiFi (SG Airport Pick Up) for Singapore
• 4G Portable WiFi for Singapore from Uroaming
• 4G WiFi (SG Pick Up) for Europe

Are you finding more top things to do in Singapore: Tours, activities, attractions and other things? Read more: Singapore travel blog — The fullest Singapore travel guide blog for a budget trip to Singapore for the first-timers.

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Best 5G/4G Singapore SIM card | Option for Transport Card by Singtel - Airport/City Pick-up in Singapore

Best 5g/4g singapore sim card | option for transport card by singtel - airport/city pick-up.

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$12 hi!Tourist SIM Card

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Awesome experience. Ordered online. SIMS available at airport on our arrival. Worked immediately. Friendly staff to assist. Great work.

Excellent work and very easy to get the sim cards. They give it to us activated so immediately we use it. The ez link card is also very useful you're planning leave the airport by MRT

The process to exchange simcard is very easy and quick. Uob staffs were quick to activate tourist simcard

Seamless process and great value. Highly recommended.

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Frequently asked questions, why book with pelago, best price guaranteed, earn krisflyer rewards, service that soars, connect to culture.

Buying a SIM card in the USA

by Anne Betts | Jan 13, 2020 | Travel Tech , USA | 16 comments

Updated January 13, 2020

This latest update highlights T-Mobile’s transition of its tourist plan to an almost identical plan of the T-Mobile MVNO (mobile virtual network operator) Ultra Mobile. Because the plans and setup are so similar, my previous reviews of the original T-Mobile plan have been left intact. I’m yet to use Ultra Mobile’s tourist plan but I expect the experience to be similar to that of T-Mobile.

Finally!! Visitors to the United States can pick up a local SIM card and a decent prepaid plan at an affordable price. Compared to my previous visits, buying a SIM card in the USA  was never this easy.

Buying a SIM card in the USA from T-Mobile

In September 2018, my travelling companions chose the T-Mobile Tourist Plan. As a result, I was able to get a front-row seat on set up and use. When Roam Mobility failed to deliver on my next U.S. visit, I headed to the nearest T-Mobile store to pick up the same plan. The T-Mobile Tourist Plan worked flawlessly on both occasions.

In the first scenario, my Australian friends were spending a week in New York City. Then, they were heading up to Boston, and then Portland to catch the ferry to Nova Scotia. T-Mobile’s coverage map indicated service in all the areas they were visiting.

The three-week tourist plan was a good fit for them. For their two-week stay, it offered better value than any of the AT&T plans. They purchased from the network provider, as opposed to a reseller or dealer. T-Mobile has stores in most New York City neighbourhoods, and along the east coast, in the event service and support were needed.

We dropped into a T-Mobile store in Harlem to get connected.

  The Tourist Plan from T-Mobile

T-Mobile’s tourist plan was a welcome change from the incompatible technologies and expensive plans of the past. It wasn’t as good as plans I’ve had in Australia , New Zealand and Spain , but it covered the needs of travellers looking for a useful amount of data, calls, and texts at an affordable price.

The Tourist Plan included:

• a T-Mobile SIM card (the three-in-one SIM included nano, micro and standard sizes).
• no activation fee.
• unlimited data, with up to 2 GB at 4G LTE speeds. Full speeds were available up to the 2 GB allotment, including while tethering. It was then throttled to up to 2G speeds.
• unlimited domestic texts, and unlimited international texting to more than 140 countries.
• 1,000 minutes of calls within the USA.
• Smartphone Mobile HotSpot (tethering) to share a phone’s internet connection with up to 10 Wi-Fi-enabled devices.
• domestic data roaming of 200 MB when travelling outside T-Mobile’s network area, using wireless data from another carrier. A text notification was received when approaching this limit.
• The Tourist Plan was prepaid, and expired automatically after 21 days. There was no need to cancel it. It was a stand-alone product and ineligible for additional features. The single-use disposable SIM couldn’t be extended, topped up, or reactivated.
• The Tourist SIM Kit cost $30 plus tax ($3.86 in New York). The total cost of $33.86 USD included set up and activation.

Review of the Tourist Plan from T-Mobile

• Set up was quick and efficient, and activation was immediate. Dawn, the T-Mobile representative, verified that everything was working as expected by calling to and from the newly activated phone. She taped the Australian SIM card to the SIM card holder, and ensured the receipt contained the new U.S. phone number.

• Coverage was excellent in all areas between New York City and Portland, Maine (and for the first hour crossing the Bay of Fundy). There were no dead spots.
• Free Wi-Fi was used when it was available. As a result, the 2 GB at 4G LTE speeds wasn’t exceeded.
• It was perfect for using data on the move: Google Maps, email, social media, Google, WhatsApp, FaceTime, and more.
• Texting to the UK, Canada, and Australia worked perfectly.
• The 1,000 minutes of calls within the USA were more than enough for calling accommodation hosts, ordering takeout, making reservations, calling travelling companions, and confirming bookings. Calls were clear, from and to indoors and outdoors.

In April 2019, my experience in San Francisco was similar. At the T-Mobile store near Golden Gate Park, set up was an efficient experience. I walked out of the store with a network-connected phone. My two travelling companions and I relied heavily on Google Maps to navigate San Francisco’s excellent transportation system. Between T-Mobile and an unlimited-use transit pass, exploring San Francisco was very affordable.   

Where to buy T-Mobile’s Tourist SIM Kit

The kit could be bought online, but it had to be purchased with a US credit card and shipped to a U.S. address.

A more convenient option was to buy it at the point of arrival. Inmotion is a large airport-based electronics retailer, with a presence in major airports. Insert the airport code in T-Mobile’s store locator , and chances are you’ll be directed to an Inmotion storefront.

In my case, flights from Canada to New York City land in Newark and LaGuardia. I prefer LaGuardia for its proximity to public transportation and easier, less costly access to the five boroughs using a MetroCard. I dropped in to Inmotion’s Terminal B storefront and was greeted by a representative who was eager and willing to set me up with the Tourist Plan. All before stepping outside the terminal.

Ultra Mobile Tourist Plan

The T-Mobile Tourist Plan has been replaced by an almost identical plan offered by Ultra Mobile . The “Visiting the US?” link at the T-Mobile site takes the visitor to Ultra Mobile. Ultra Mobile is a mobile virtual network operator (MVNO) of T-Mobile. An MVNO is a reseller for wireless communications services. As such, Ultra Mobile uses the T-Mobile network so the T-Mobile coverage map will be relevant.

The Ultra Mobile plan is similar to the T-Mobile Tourist Plan described above. The three-week plan’s features include:

• 1000 minutes of domestic talk
• unlimited domestic and international texts
• unlimited data with up to 2GB at 4G LTE
• 100 minutes to 80+ countries

The 100 minutes of international calls is a welcome feature that wasn’t included in the T-Mobile plan.

An Ultra Mobile Tourist SIM Kit can be purchased at T-Mobile Brand retail stores or T-Mobile Preferred retail stores. For more information, Ultra Mobile has a handy list of questions and answers.

Have you used Ultra Mobile Tourist Plan? If so, what was your experience?

If you’re visiting the USA, you might be interested in my other posts:

• 31 Fabulous things to do in San Francisco
• A detailed guide to biking the Golden Gate Bridge
• Inside Eastern State Penitentiary: the “magnificent ruin” of Philadelphia
• Lunch at the United Nations, New York
• Visit McSorley’s Old Ale House, New York City

Pin for later?

Image by TeroVesalainen from Pixabay

16 Comments

If I buy the kit at Inmotion, do I still need to go into a T mobile store to activate it? Thank you.

Inmotion will get you up and running with set up and activation. There’s no need to visit a T-Mobile store. That’s a key benefit of the Inmotion airport locations.

Can you confirm if the $30 plan still exist? I’m hearing it’s now $40 for 10 GB?

The website still indicates it’s $30 for 2 GB plan.

I bought it in San Francisco a month ago. It cost $30 plus tax.

Hi, I was informed by t mobile staff that there is a $10 plus tax activation fee for the t mobile tourist sim and I would not be able to activate the sim without paying this fee. Did you have to pay this additional fee as well when you bought from in motion or t mobile store directly?

Hi Cheryl. At both T-Mobile stores (Harlem in NYC, and by Golden Gate Park in SF), there was no activation fee. The SF experience was just two months ago, in April 2019. The total in both cases was $30 plus tax.

It is not available anymore. Just buy the 55USD sim card it is valid for 21 days with unlimited internet and unlimited call and text within the US. Thats what I bought. So far good service in NY. No problems except when inside the subway.

Your site is so helpful, Anne. Thanks. We’re heading to the US in a few months and we will absolutely use the T Mobile sim.

Do you know if we can use a Samsung (S3 or S5) phone in order to access the 4G LTE data? I’ve searched the net over some time but I can’t seem to get a definite answer.

I know this is a long-shot for you but I’m getting anxious now.

Again, thanks for all the information on your site.

Hello Mal. T-Mobile has a feature on its site where you can check your phone’s compatibility with the T-Mobile network by inserting your phone’s IMEI number: https://www.t-mobile.com/resources/bring-your-own-phone?icid=WMM_TM_Q418UNAVHA_9O9ELOM511J15816 Might this help? Good luck.

Hi, thanks for the useful information! 🙂 I would like to ask for your help. Last week I browsed T-Mobile US webpage and found all the info on the Tourist SIM. Today I browsed it again it it is redirected to ultramobile webpage https://www.ultramobile.com/tourist/?icid=WMM_TMNG_PPEULTRA_AU4DD3J38PK7L3C8617764 , which is an MVNO of T-Mobile. Does it mean that only Ultramobile SIMs are available? My friends are travelling to NYC in two weeks and I want to collect for them all info about mobile phone usage in the US. Do you know if these Ultramobile SIMs are available at InMotion Stores (at JFK for example), similar to T-Mobile’s old Tourist SIM? Thank you very much, Aniko from Hungary

Hello Aniko. I’m also directed to the ultramobile site from T-Mobile. It appears to be a recent rebranding of the Tourist Plan. I can only assume that the InMotion stores can set your friends up with the new product, or one of the many T-Mobile stores in NYC. Good luck.

Hi, today a T mobile customer service agent told me that the Tourist Plan no longer exists. I´m traveling from Colombia to Los Angeles.

Thank you for your most helpful review. We’re off to Orlando FL for two weeks and shall try the T Mobile plan for my wife and me.

Thanks Anne for the awesome guide. The Ultra Mobile tourist plan is a great deal for frequent travelers and expats.

do you know about any SIM cards (data+voice) that doesn’t expire (ie, i can keep the same SIM for recurring trips to the US (1-2 months at a time) without a monthly fee? I did use Roammobility with no issues, but they went under with Covid.

You can now buy a Lycamobile SIM card in any InMotion store access the US. It’s priced at $35 for 7GB and $50 for 15GB which isn’t a bad deal for airport standards. They are valid for 30 days and it’s preloaded so you just need to pop it in your device, dial a code and you are good to go.

Trackbacks/Pingbacks

• Getting connected in the USA: A review of Roam Mobility - Packing Light Travel - […] For my review of their experience, see Buying a SIM card in the USA. […]
• Buying a SIM Card in Australia - Packing Light Travel - […] Buying a SIM card in the USA […]
• 31 Fabulous things to do in San Francisco - Packing Light Travel - […] Buying a SIM card in the USA […]

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