Phones and internet

A working Thai number is needed for ride-hailing apps, bank verification and other everyday services.

Getting a SIM card#

SIM cards are widely available at the airport, convenience stores, and phone shops across the city. Registration requires your passport by law; bring it with you when buying a SIM. An unregistered SIM cannot be activated.

Thailand has several major mobile carriers, each offering prepaid tourist and longer-term student-style packages with data, calls, and texts. Compare current data allowances and prices at the point of purchase, since promotions change often. Airport kiosks are convenient but not always the cheapest option compared to a shop in the city.

Topping up and managing your plan#

Most carriers let you top up and change packages through their own app, at convenience stores, or via short dial codes. Keep track of your renewal date if you're on a monthly package to avoid losing data mid-month.

Connecting to TU wifi#

Thammasat provides campus wifi for enrolled students. You'll need your university account credentials to connect.

Staying connected#

• Wifi is widely available in cafés, malls, and most accommodation.
• Messaging apps commonly used in Thailand (alongside the usual global ones) are worth installing, since some services and group chats default to them.
• If you travel regionally, check whether your Thai SIM offers roaming, or plan to pick up a local SIM at your destination.

If your phone or SIM stops working#

Carrier shops (including counters inside many malls) can resolve registration or activation issues. Bring your passport and the SIM itself.