Learn about mobile internet in Laos that tourists should know and different connectivity options to stay connected in Laos for tourists.
Going to visit Laos and looking for ways to get mobile internet there? The good news is that mobile internet in Laos has significantly improved in recent years. So, when you visit this beautiful country, staying connected is now more convenient than ever. You can confidently explore all that Laos has to offer while staying connected to the internet and making the most of your travel experience.
In this article
Laos has 03 big mobile network operators, which are Unitel, Lao Telecom, and ETL.
Below are some need-to-know information about each one:
Below we explain coverage performance of each Laos mobile network operators:
Unitel is the largest provider in Laos. Unitel claims that it covers 97% of the population, and 4G/LTE can be found in Vientiane, Luang Prabang, Champasak, Savannakhet, and other major towns and provinces.
Lao Telecom offers 2G and 3G services to its customers, with limited 4G coverage available in major cities. Its network covers around 80% of the population in Laos, which is significantly lower than Unitel’s coverage. However, Lao Telecom’s services are relatively stable and reliable.
ETL offers 2G, 3G, and limited 4G services to its customers, with coverage available in major cities and towns in Laos. ETL has also invested in expanding its coverage area, making it a reliable option for customers in rural areas.
Lao Telecom Communication, LTC is an internet service provider which operates in Lao People’s Democratic Republic. Currently, it ranks in the place 1 from 8 providers in Lao People’s Democratic Republic. Unitel hold the second position. And ETL has the slowest speed experience in comparison with LTC and Unitel.
You can get mobile internet in Laos through 3 options:
What is it? : An eSIM is a digital SIM card embedded directly into a device.
Pros:
Cons: Requires a compatible, fairly modern phone with eSIM functionality.
What is it? The ability to connect to a cellular network and access services when traveling to Laos.
Pros:
Cons:
What is it? Accessing free WiFi in public areas like restaurants, coffee shops, and convenience stores.
Pros:
Cons:
Travelers can see overall information below about Internet Rates in Laos to have the most suitable choice:
| Option | Cost |
| Laos eSIM | You can get a Lao SIM card for 10 000 LAK (0.50 USD) from Unitel, Lao Telecom (LaoTel), TPlus (formerly Beeline) & ETL in their stores. |
| Roaming with Laos operators | You’ll need to contact your local provider for specific details on costs. Some charge around $130 per month, while others are more like $100 – it really depends. |
| Connect to Laos Public WiFi Networks | Free |
► Our Recommendation: Use a Laos SIM Card or eSIM to have a reliable connection with affordable costs
Which type of SIM card to buy to get mobile internet in Laos? You can choose either data-only SIM plans and data, voice and text plans.
According to experienced travelers, data only SIM cards is always the best choice for tourists due to its convenience and friendly-budget cost. There are some big mobile operators which provides travelers with various data-only Laos plans:
Lao Telecom SIM Cards: Several Laos SIM Card packages is offered
Unitel SIM Cards: Unitel has several different prepaid plans:
TPlus SIM Cards: TPlus offers two main SIM-only plans for tourists:
Note: Tourists should check the official websites for the most updated prices
If you’re planning to get a eSIM in Laos, you have a few options. You can buy one in person at international airports, in mobile provider stores, convenience stores, or even buy online.
However, it’s worth noting that buying a SIM card at the airport may be a bit more expensive, and the data offers might not be as good. So, we suggest considering other places to purchase your SIM card instead of the airport.
Travelers can visit the mobile provider stores or websites to get Laos eSIM. Just remember to show your passport if needed.
Keep in mind that if you buy an eSIM this way, you might not have immediate access to data upon your arrival. So, if it’s important for you to stay connected right away, you could consider using an eSIM or buying an Asia prepaid SIM card online.
If you want to have your Laos SIM card ready when you arrive, you can buy it online from websites like Gigago.com – a reliable eSIM provider.
On Gigago website, you’ll find various plans available. There are plenty of options to explore, so take a look and make sure the plans you choose cover all your needs.
For Laos, Gigago offers multiple data plan options, with prices ranging from $5.50 – $12.90 . Their minimum 15 GB/ 10 days starts at just $5.50 . With this range of affordable plans, Gigago can accommodate any type of user and trip length in Laos. Whether you only need occasional internet access or plan to stream extensively, Gigago has a Laos eSIM plan to fit your needs and budget. The flexibility of their pricing makes Gigago a great eSIM solution for travel to Laos.
Besides, you also have additional benefits when you buy Laos eSIM from Gigago:
Once you have purchased a prepaid data plan from a mobile network operator, you can activate it by dialing a specific number, often provided in the plan’s instructions.
The main mobile operators in Laos are Unitel, ETL, Beeline. You can buy a local SIM card from one of these providers. SIM cards and data packages can be purchased at airports, shopping malls, and carrier stores. But, the most convenient way is to buy eSIM Laos only if your phone is unlocked and supports eSIM technology.
Yes, Lao cities have good 4G coverage for the most part. Remote areas may have only 3G or 2G. Wifi is widely available. Using a local SIM is affordable. Just make sure your phone is unlocked before visiting Laos.
A VPN is not necessary but some travelers use it for extra privacy and to access blocked sites. Free internet access is not heavily restricted in Laos.
When choosing options to get mobile internet in Laos, it is important to consider factors such as data requirements, budget, international connectivity, coverage and customer support.
Learn about Unitel network and information about Unitel’s SIM card and eSIM including how to activate, speed, coverage and cost to make the right choice for your trip in Laos.
This guide provides step-by-step instructions on how to get and activate a Lao Telecom SIM or eSIM, including information about data plans, coverage areas, and how to use them when you visit Laos.
A Laos SIM card is a convenient choice when you want to travel here. Let’s learn about detailed information about Laos SIM cards and guide instructions for using them.
Learn about how it works and what travelers should know in Laos and SIM Card and eSIM options to stay connected in Laos for travelers.
Learn more about buying a SIM card at Vientiane Airport (Wattay – VTE), so you can choose the best mobile package for your trip to Laos.
Let’s learn about information about ETL SIM cards and eSIM and great options for your trip to Laos. Are you wondering which is better to use ETL SIM card or eSIM during your trip to Laos? Let us point out the benefits and their costs here. I. Overview about ETL – What you need to […]
